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Welcome to Advanced TV Herstory, the podcast that connects the dots of TV & feminism and American politics & culture. We tell the stories of women in TV who have had a profound impact on the confidence and aspirations of generations of girls and women.

We highlight the pioneering journalists, talented actresses, and gutsy writers who challenged societal norms and provide historical context for their achievements within the cultural and political trends of the time. By exploring the past, we ensure that the struggles, triumphs, and milestones of these women are not lost to history.

Hosted and produced by television scholar Cynthia Bemis Abrams, Advanced TV Herstory is more than just a podcast. It is a research-based examination of the evolution of television and women in our society. Each episode is an opportunity to inspire listeners to believe in themselves, challenge norms, break barriers, and shape the future of television and our world.

Learn more and subscribe to our newsletter at www.tvherstory.com/.

May 9, 2019

Podcast Episode Description
 
In this episode of Advanced TV Herstory, host Cynthia Bemis Abrams sits down with art historian, professor, and author Emily L. Newman to examine how made-for-TV movies tackled the sensitive subject of eating disorders. From the 1980s through today, these stories offered a platform to educate audiences while reflecting societal pressures on women.

They discuss milestone productions such as Kate's Secret (1986), starring Meredith Baxter, and Love of Nancy (1994), featuring Tracey Gold, along with the influence of real-life figures like Karen Carpenter. This episode dives into how these narratives shaped public understanding of anorexia and bulimia and how television has served as a tool for advocacy and awareness.

Podcast Episode Plot Summary
 
Television has long been a medium for tackling societal issues, and the made-for-TV movie genre became a vital platform for exploring eating disorders. In this episode, Cynthia Bemis Abrams and Emily L. Newman discuss how films like Kate’s Secret and Love of Nancy portrayed the struggles of women dealing with anorexia and bulimia.

They also explore the impact of public figures like Karen Carpenter and Tracey Gold, who brought attention to the issue both on and off screen. This episode highlights television’s power to educate and inspire change, with a focus on the intersection of media, health, and representation.
 
Episode Life Lessons
  • Representation matters: Television has the power to educate and destigmatize health issues like eating disorders.
  • Personal stories amplify change: Real-life figures like Karen Carpenter inspired made-for-TV narratives that shaped public understanding.
  • Media as advocacy: These films remind us how entertainment can be a tool for education and social awareness.
Episode Resources
  • Referenced TV Movies:

    • Kate's Secret (1986)
    • Love of Nancy (1994)
  • Related Episodes:
    Cable’s Original Content and Reruns: TV For and About Women (5.9)
    Series, Movies & Channels: TV For and About Women (5.7)
    Cable Audiences and Evolution: TV For and About Women (5.6)