In Plain Sight: Lady Bird Johnson
4.8/5
Critic Rating
4.5/5
Listener Rating
"In Plain Sight: Lady Bird Johnson" presents a surprising and original portrait of Lady Bird Johnson, told in the former first lady's own words -- from over 123 hours of her White House audio diaries, heard here largely for the first time ever. It recasts Lady Bird's role in the Johnson White House as her husband's closest advisor and most trusted political partner and provides history-making revelations about LBJ's time in office. It's the story of how one vastly underestimated woman navigated the power, politics and polarization of her era to become one of the most influential members of the Johnson...
Critic Reviews
Score: 5
Michael Walsh • Yonkers Public Library • Feb 2, 2022
"You will be fascinated to hear about the influence she had in LBJ’s political decisions. In Plain Sight: Lady Bird Johnson sheds light on the importance of Lady Bird to the Johnson administration. I certainly did not know how influential her advice was to LBJ."
Score: 4.5
R.D. Burbank • Laughing Place • Mar 3, 2021
"In Plain Sight is part radio drama, news magazine, historical documentary and is even reminiscent of Serial at certain moments with Sweig’s cadence matching Sarah Koenig’s, but ultimately it remains an original masterpiece. I was impressed with the style and delivery and was eager for each additional bit of information. This is history. It’s already happened, and we know the end result, but that doesn’t take away from the excitement and intensity of the story. With over 123 hours of Lady’s own account of her time at the White House, Sweig relies on these diary entries to compliment the narrative. Not only does this offer a unique perspective, but it adds an incredible layer of authenticity to this deep dive into the First Lady’s personal and political life. I had no idea what to expect with In Plain Sight and part of me was bracing for a lackluster history lesson. This is anything but. "
Listener Reviews
Score: 4.5
Imran A. • Mar 2, 2021
"It’s a poignant, fascinating listen on someone I wouldn’t have been looking out for. President Johnson's wife, Lady Bird Johnson kept an audio diary that you could say was the first personal journal podcast. My favorite moments are when Lady Bird already has a plan on what she wants to achieve, LBJ objects, and she does it anyway.If there is one production note that I would make on this ABC News podcast is the music. The piano music is too reminiscent of Serial’s famous piano tone. It works, but all too close. For half of the podcast, I couldn't shake that feeling."
