Joan Lunden, a notable figure in television journalism, has recently opened up about her career in a book signing event for her latest work, *Joan: Life Beyond the Script*, at Vroman’s Bookstore in Pasadena, California. During the occasion, Lunden reflected on her experiences and the significant evolution of women’s roles in the media since she began her career.
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In her new book, released in March 2023, Lunden aims to enlighten younger generations about the challenges faced by women in the media landscape during her tenure as co-host of *Good Morning America* from 1980 to 1997. She expressed her desire for the book to serve as an educational tool for women in their twenties and thirties, who may not fully grasp the struggles and societal norms of the past.
Lunden fondly recalled her early days in television, recalling how the discourse surrounding women’s issues has evolved. Early in her career, she faced scepticism when she began her first job at a Sacramento television station at the age of 23. “I understand why that was not a popular move,” she acknowledged, reflecting on the era’s restrictive attitudes towards women in the workplace.
The former television host highlighted a pivotal moment in history when the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) urged major news corporations to increase opportunities for women following the Equal Employment Opportunity Act of 1972. She remarked, “It really historically lays out what the world was like for women from the early 1970s until present day.” With a sense of urgency, Lunden remarked how young women today are often unaware of the significant legal and social progress made in recent decades.
Despite acknowledging the strides made towards gender equality, Lunden expressed concern over current challenges to these rights. “Our rights and privileges are being challenged a little bit these days,” she noted. Her aspiration is for young women to grasp the magnitude of the efforts undertaken to achieve gender equity in the workplace and beyond.
Lunden also shared insights into her personal life, much of which was public during her time on television. As a mother of seven, she navigated the pressures of new motherhood, divorce, and the quest for work-life balance under the public eye. She recounted the life-changing moment when she was offered her role on *Good Morning America* and soon discovered she was pregnant with her first child. “This is way too big a job. You’ve just got to figure out how you’re gonna do this,” she recalled thinking at the time.
In a time when breastfeeding was a taboo subject, Lunden faced an uphill battle when she requested to bring her baby to work. She highlighted the absurdity of that era, stating, “In 1979, one of the words that the FCC did not allow you to say on TV was ‘breastfeeding.’ Can you believe it?” Lunden’s commitment to her role as a working mother resonated with many others and marked a crucial moment for women in the workforce.
For those aspiring to enter the world of television news, Lunden offered straightforward advice, encouraging them to embrace opportunities. “Whenever anyone asks you if you can do something, just say yes, for God’s sake,” she advised, sharing how this motto has guided her career decisions.
Throughout her decades in the industry, Lunden has dedicated herself to advocacy and community service, often reflecting on the deeper connections she has forged with women and seniors. She noted, “Only now writing this book have I been able to come to understand that the last 25 years has probably afforded me more opportunities through all my advocacy to actually make a difference in the world.”
*Joan: Life Beyond the Script*, co-written with memoirist Tamela Rich, is now available and seeks to inspire a new generation by shedding light on the challenges and triumphs experienced by women in the media. As Lunden continues to share her journey, she hopes that her story will empower young women to recognise and appreciate the strides that have been made and encourage them to continue pushing for progress in their own lives.