55: The Rulebreaker: The Life and Times of Barbara Walters with Susan Page | Jen Rubin's Green Room

Susan Page discusses her book on Barbara Walters and highlights the key themes of Walters' life and career. Walters, born into a generation with low expectations for women, made a significant impact in journalism and entertainment. Her relationship with her father, who had a volatile career, shaped her drive and determination. Walters was known for her meticulous preparation and ability to land interviews with high-profile figures.

She faced criticism and ridicule but persevered, ultimately becoming a legend in the industry. Despite her professional success, Walters struggled with personal relationships and prioritized her career above all else. Barbara Walters was a groundbreaking journalist who paved the way for women in TV and journalism. She encouraged women to pursue their own production companies and get a piece of the business pie. Walters had a complex relationship with Diane Sawyer, respecting and sometimes hating each other.

They were deliberately set against each other by their employer to increase competition. Walters didn't have any role models and had to figure out how to balance her career and personal life on her own. She transformed with the evolving medium of television and adapted to the changing landscape of news.

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