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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/.

Apr 23, 2020

Podcast Episode Description

Daytime dramas reshaped TV herstory, tackling complex societal issues such as adoptions, reproductive rights, and rape. Dr. Elana Levine provides insights into how soap operas mirrored social changes from the 1960s to today. This episode explores the limited roles for actors of color, often sidelined to secondary storylines, and the centrality of white "super couples." Audio clips from As the World Turns, All My Children, The Young and the Restless, and Ryan's Hope enrich the discussion. Dr. Levine's book Her Stories (Duke Univ. Press) serves as the foundation for this compelling four-part series.

Podcast Episode Plot Summary

This episode delves into the social issues tackled by daytime dramas, including reproductive rights, LGBTQ+ representation, and racial diversity. Dr. Levine discusses how these narratives reflected societal changes while grappling with their limitations in inclusivity.
 
Resources Mentioned