The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series.

The Secret History of Home Economics

Welcome to The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates interview series on radio and podcast.  I’m Paul Vogelzang, and for all of us in The Not Old Better Show audience, the term “home economics” may conjure traumatic memories of lopsided hand-sewn pillows or sunken muffins. 

But the common conceptions obscure the real story and value of the once-revolutionary “science of better living.” The field exploded opportunities for women in the 20th century by reducing domestic work and providing jobs as professors, engineers, chemists, and businesspeople.

And, according to our Smithsonian Associates guest today, author Danielle Dreilinger it has something to teach us today: that everyone should learn how to cook a meal, balance their bank account, and fight for a better world.

Danielle Dreilinger will be appearing at Smithsonian Associates, so check out our website for more information.  But, we have Danielle Dreilinger today, and we’ll talk about her new book, The Secret History of Home Economics: How Trailblazing Women Harnessed the Power of Home and Changed the Way We Live, and (available HERE on Apple Books) she’ll trace the fields of Home Economics history and the achievements of the women in it who became chemists and marketers; studied nutrition, health, and exercise; tested parachutes; created astronaut food, and took bold steps in childhood development and education.

Home economics followed the currents of American culture even as it shaped them. Danielle Dreilinger will discuss the racism within the movement and the strides taken by women of color who were influential leaders and innovators. She also looks at women’s personal lives in the field, as they chose to be single, shares lives with other women, or try for egalitarian marriages.

Please join me in welcoming to The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates interview series, author, and Smithsonian Associate, Danielle Dreilinger.

My thanks to author Danielle Dreilinger who will appear at Smithsonian Associates, so check out our website for more information.  My thanks to the Smithsonian team for all they do to support the show.  My thanks to you, my wonderful Not Old Better Show audience on radio and podcast.  

Check out the Smithsonian Associates site for ticket details and more information:  https://smithsonianassociates.org/ticketing/tickets/home-economics