In this episode, Ruth and Elliot Handler are gone, and the new Mattel team, led by a man who feared the volatility of the toy business, diversified the company and made a big gamble on electronics. It didn’t work. Fortunately, Barbie ends up in the sure hands of some trailblazing women executives, who could see that the culture was moving in a direction very compatible with Barbie’s persona. From the workforce to the workout, Barbie was a doll of her times.

This podcast is supported by Gordon and Dona Crawford, who believe quality journalism makes Los Angeles a better place to live.

From LAist Studios, “LA Made: The Barbie Tapes". 

Listen now at https://laist.com/podcasts/la-made  

In episode two of LA Made: The Barbie Tapes, for Barbie, the cultural upheaval of the 60s and 70s incites one identity crisis after another as Mattel tries to keep up with the times. On top of that, she has a new boyfriend to deal with. Ken's creation is a big hit for Barbie fans, but he’s facing a few growing pains of his own. In this episode, we investigate Ken's origin story, delve into the inner workings of Mattel, and hear how Barbie's inventor, Ruth Handler, was ousted from her own company.

This podcast is supported by Gordon and Dona Crawford, who believe quality journalism makes Los Angeles a better place to live.

From LAist Studios, “LA Made: The Barbie Tapes". 

Listen now at https://laist.com/podcasts/la-made  

Season 2 of “LA Made” tells the true story of the making and marketing of the most famous doll in the world, Barbie, told by the people who did it. We’ll hear from Mattel co-founder Ruth Handler, who spent years trying to convince her own company to make a teen aged fashion doll.

From LAist Studios, “LA Made: The Barbie Tapes". 

Listen now at https://laist.com/podcasts/la-made  

Part two of John’s discussion with Tom Hanks reflecting on the podcast Dead Eyes and lessons he’s learned on set and in the audition room over the years. Plus, a special message from John.

Support Retake by donating now at LAist.com/join

Producer Susan Downey on creating worlds, the importance of freshness, and her creative relationship with Robert Downey Jr, partner/husband. Also, writer Brigitte Muñoz-Liebowitz talks about the strike and the cancellation of Gordita Chronicles. Plus, TV recommendations from John.

Support Retake by donating now at LAist.com/join

A new documentary series Iconic America explores the history of the Hollywood sign, the idea of “Hollywood” in American culture, and our deep affection for a very complicated place. Plus, John’s recommendations of great Hollywood movies.

Support Retake by donating now at LAist.com/join

As the finale approaches, a deep dive with Succession actor Jeremy Strong on acting - his philosophy on the craft, impactful lessons, and how he doesn’t like to over-rehearse.

Support Retake by donating now at LAist.com/join

Chris Keyser, co-chair of the WGA’s negotiating committee, calls out the protests of pauperism from film and TV studios. And “You Hurt My Feelings” writer/director Nicole Holofcener talks about receiving criticism — good and bad — of your work, and going with your gut when deciding how to trim a film.

Support Retake by donating now at LAist.com/join

Betty Gilpin (“GLOW,” “The Hunt”) on fighting an A.I. enemy in her new show “Mrs. Davis.” And Vox’s Alissa Wilkinson explains why A.I. may be the most important issue in the writers’ strike.

Support Retake by donating now at LAist.com/join

Why striking screenwriters are mad as hell: Adam Conover and voices from the picket lines. And Emma Thompson on her new film What’s Love Got to Do With It and her thoughts on Hollywood endings, the value of story, and the evolution of roles for women.

Is the strike affecting you? Share your story here.

Support Retake by donating now at LAist.com/join