In this episode of Queernundrum, we delve into the captivating story of Liz Carmichael, a transgender entrepreneur who, in the 1970s, promised to revolutionize the auto industry with a three-wheeled car called The Dale. Amid the energy crisis, Liz's Twentieth Century Motor Car Corporation claimed the vehicle would achieve 70 miles per gallon, capturing national attention. However, as media scrutiny intensified, so did questions about the car's viability and Liz's past.
We explore the intricate layers of Liz's life: her transition during a time of widespread transphobia, her run-ins with the law, and the media's obsession with her gender identity over her business dealings. The HBO docuseries The Lady and the Dale sheds light on how Liz's story was sensationalized, often overshadowing the systemic biases she faced as a trans woman in a male-dominated industry.
Join us as we discuss:
- The intersection of gender identity and entrepreneurship
- Media portrayal of trans individuals in the 20th century
- The fine line between innovation and deception
Resources & References:
- The Lady and the Dale – HBO
- Geraldine Elizabeth Carmichael – Wikipedia
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