In 1963, Betty Friedan’s book The Feminine Mystique was a galvanizing force for the Feminist movement. Now, nearly six decades later, feminist discourse has gone through several evolutions, Betty Friedan is no longer a household name, and her radical ideas don’t sound so radical anymore. This week, Producer Gavin Scott sits down with Rachel Shteir, author of “Betty Friedan: Magnificent Disrupter”, to talk about the legacy and controversy around Betty Friedan, including how she coined the term ‘Lavender Menace.’

Listen to new episodes every Thursday. Follow the show on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, or wherever you listen. That way you never miss an episode. 

Love the show? Consider writing us a review on your podcast app or telling a friend about the show. This really helps us spread the word. 

Visit UnTextbooked.com for learning resources including a glossary of terms. 

Show Notes:

(00:00) - Who is Betty Friedan?

(1:35) - Why did the Feminine Mystique resonate?

(4:51) - Critiques of the Feminine Mystique

(6:25) - Creating the National Organization of Women (NOW)

(7:26) - Betty Friedan’s Early Life

(9:12) - Betty Friedan’s Perspective on Women’s Rights

(10:45) - The “Lavender Menace”

(12:18) - Marriage and Domestic Abuse

(15:25) - Legacy & Impact

(16:45) - Gavin’s closing thoughts