Shattering Ceilings, Shaping a Nation: The Frances Perkins Story with Stephanie Dray on The Not Old Better Show
The Not Old Better Show, Art of Living Interview Series
Welcome to The Not Old Better Show, Art of Living Interview Series on radio and podcast, brought to you by TalkSpace. Our episode is where history and the present converge to inspire, inform, and ignite our audience. Today, we’re embarking on a journey through time, guided by the New York Times Bestselling author, Stephanie Dray, a master of historical fiction who brings to life the stories of women whose legacies have sculpted our world.
In this episode, we delve deep into the heart of early 20th-century America with Stephanie Dray’s latest tour de force, which is available at Apple Books, “Becoming Madam Secretary.” This riveting novel chronicles the real life of Frances Perkins, a woman of indomitable spirit and intellect, who shattered glass ceilings to become the first female Cabinet member in U.S. history, serving as Secretary of Labor under President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
Raised on tales of revolutionary ancestors, Perkins’ journey from the tenements of New York City’s Hell’s Kitchen to the corridors of power in Washington, D.C., is a testament to her unwavering determination to enact change. Through Dray’s meticulous research and compelling narrative, we witness Perkins navigating a world dominated by men, her life intertwined with figures like Sinclair Lewis and Eleanor Roosevelt, and her pivotal role in shaping policies that remain cornerstones of American society, such as social security and labor rights.
But “Becoming Madam Secretary” is more than a chronicle of political achievement; it’s a story of personal sacrifice, love, loss, and the balance between public service and private life in times of national crisis. It’s a tale that resonates profoundly with our audience, reminding us of the enduring impact of perseverance, vision, and the courage to challenge the status quo.
Join us for an enlightening conversation with NYT best-selling author Stephanie Dray, as we explore the depths of Frances Perkins’ legacy, the challenges of bringing historical figures to life, and the lessons their stories hold for us today. This is not just history; it’s inspiration for living our best lives, understanding the power of resilience, and the importance of contributing to a world that future generations will inherit.
Prepare to be captivated by the story of a woman who dared to dream, fight, and pave the way for a better tomorrow. This is The Not Old Better Show, where the past is always present, and the future is something we create together. Stay tuned.
My thanks to NYT best-selling author Stephanie Dray who’s written the new book, “Becoming Madam Secretary”. My thanks to TalkSpace for sponsoring today’s episode.
My thanks to you, our wonderful audience here on radio and podcast. My thanks to Executive Producer, Sam Heninger. Please be well, be safe, and Let’s Talk About Better™. The Not Old Better Show, Art of Living Interview Series on radio and podcast. Thanks, everybody, and we’ll see you next week.