She Pivots

Gina Ortiz Jones grew up as a first-generation American, taught early on about the importance of service by her family. But she never imagined breaking one of the largest glass ceilings in the country by becoming the Under Secretary of the Air Force — the first woman of color and the first openly lesbian person in the role. On this episode of She Pivots, Gina shares the deep history of and pride around military service in her family; coming out to her mom at age 15; the personal and emotional impact of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell; the decision to step away from her career to care for her mother; and her fight for women’s health and reproductive freedoms. She Pivots was created by host Emily Tisch Sussman to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Gina, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast or visit shepivotsthepodcast.com.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week’s guest holds an extra special place in Emily’s heart. Emily met Nancy Goldberg when she was nine years old at the Belvoir Terrace Summer Girls Performing Arts Camp. As Owner and Director Emeritus, Nancy has dedicated her life to enriching and educating young girls. In this Candid Convo, Nancy reflects on her love for teaching from a young age; her own experiences with summer camps growing up; and launching a renowned arts program for people with Williams Syndrome. She also offers a powerful message on morality and empathy that’s much needed in today’s busy world. She Pivots was created by host Emily Tisch Sussman to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Nancy, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast or visit shepivotsthepodcast.com.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As an Emmy-winning reporter on the hugely popular ABC7 in New York City, Darla Miles is no stranger to talking to individuals about some of their lowest lows, and their highest highs. But while she acts as a voice for so many across New York, her own story - one of deep personal loss after losing her husband and multiple pregnancies - is rarely in the spotlight. That’s why this episode is so incredibly special. On this Candid Convo, of She Pivots, Darla shares why she felt compelled to bring Black voices to the television; her unconventional path to becoming a reporter; the loss of her husband when she was only 41; her complicated and challenging fertility journey; and why she still has hope to this day. She Pivots was created by host Emily Tisch Sussman to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Darla, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast or visit shepivotsthepodcast.com. Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, Emily is live from the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, where the Democratic nominee for President, Kamala Harris, will address delegates. So what better way to celebrate this momentous occasion than to re-release Emily's conversation with Vice President Harris from last year! This conversation is especially timely, as it dives into the personal experiences that influenced Harris's decision to go into politics--a deeply personal side of her that can be overlooked when she hits the campaign trail. She Pivots was created by host Emily Tisch Sussman to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about our guests, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast or visit shepivotsthepodcast.com. Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you’ve gone to get a blowout, you most likely stepped foot into a Drybar - founded by this week’s guest, Alli Webb. Drybar was a revolutionary concept that transformed the hair care industry by focusing exclusively on blowouts. What started as a single mobile service grew into a national brand with over 150 locations and a line of professional hair products. So why did Alli decide to sell the company? And how did selling the company lead to an identity crisis? On this episode of She Pivots, Alli answers that question plus: how Drybar started as a mobile business so she could “get out of the house for a couple hours”; how her professional life changed as a result of her son’s mental health struggles and loss of her mother to cancer; dealing with depression; taking her power back by writing her bestselling book, “The Messy Truth”; and candid insights into the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. She Pivots was created by host Emily Tisch Sussman to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Alli, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast or visit shepivotsthepodcast.com.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tasmin Carter works as an executive assistant at a financial services firm. But her story to stability and success was full of obstacles. A survivor of childhood abuse, an unhealthy marriage, and stage three colon cancer, Tasmin’s story is one of incredible resilience, and we're incredibly thankful to Tasmin for sharing her story with us for the first time publicly. On this episode of She Pivots, Tasmin recounts the secret of her father’s affair, the aftermath of the heart-wrenching decision to put her child up for adoption at 17, the decision to leave her husband, her courageous battle with colon cancer, and the creation of her nonprofit "Forward Hope," which helps kids aging out of the foster care system. She Pivots was created by host Emily Tisch Sussman to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Tasmin, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast or visit shepivotsthepodcast.com.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you’ve ever turned on QVC or HSN, you’ve probably seen Joy Mangano or one of her many inventions, like the Miracle Mop. Or you may have seen Jennifer Lawrence portray her in the 2015 hit movie, “Joy.” But Joy’s wild success started with a simple idea—and a big risk. On this episode of She Pivots, Joy talks with Emily about her early invention ideas (a fluorescent flea collar for pets!), getting Miracle Mop off the ground as a single mom with three young kids, the decision to sell her company to HSN, her new partnership with Pitbull, and the central role of family in her business decisions. She Pivots was created by host Emily Tisch Sussman to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Joy, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast or visit shepivotsthepodcast.com.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Olympics are right around the corner so on this special episode we talk to former Olympian Ali Krieger, a legend in the soccer world. As a former World Cup champion, U.S. Olympian, and National Women's Soccer League champion on Gotham FC, she redefined what the game could be, especially for women. But soccer was more than just a career for her—it was a critical component along her journey to self-discovery. On this episode of She Pivots, Ali talks about her love for soccer and competition from a young age; the struggles and triumphs of playing overseas in Germany after college; the feeling (and pressure!) of being an Olympian; how leading Gotham FC from last in the league to champions was deeply personal for her; and her journey to living openly and becoming a mother while still playing soccer professionally. She Pivots was created by host Emily Tisch Sussman to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Ali, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast or visit shepivotsthepodcast.com.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Shazi Visram was a successful entrepreneur - but her son's autism diagnosis, coupled with her father's Alzhiemer's diagnosis - shifted her entire reality. On this episode of She Pivots, Shazi talks about her parents’ journey to the United States, her passion for visual arts, the inspiration behind Happy Baby (now Happy Family Organics), what it's like to be a member of the "sandwich generation," and what she is most excited about with her newest company, HealthyBaby. She Pivots was created by host Emily Tisch Sussman to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Shazi, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast or visit shepivotsthepodcast.com.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Emily Hikade led a secret life for many years. As a diplomat turned CIA officer, Emily engaged in dangerous counterterrorism work, even as she built a family. But a life-altering, near-death experience changed her perspective, leading her to eventually pivot out of the CIA and create Petite Plume, a wildly successful pajama company. On this episode of She Pivots, Emily talks about being in a field dominated by men, how she leveraged her skills as a negotiator in the pajama business, and the role of her family in the career decisions she’s made. She Pivots was created by host Emily Tisch Sussman to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Emily Hikade, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast or visit shepivotsthepodcast.com.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the road for a 4th of July weekend getaway? Taking a long flight to a sunny destination? She Pivots has your travel playlist! We’re taking a look back into our archives to highlight three of our favorite–and most timely–episodes. Links below! LISTEN TO ALLYSON FLEIX: https://link.chtbl.com/Allyson_Felix?sid=ShePivots_070324 In advance of the Olympics, take a listen to Emily’s conversation with Allyson Felix, the world’s most decorated track and field athlete. LISTEN TO PAULA NEIRA: https://link.chtbl.com/PaulaNeira?sid=ShePivots_070324 If you’re feeling extra patriotic, spend some time with Paula Neira, a Navy veteran who left behind the career she loved to pursue her authentic self as a transgender woman and fight for equality for nurses, service members, and transgender Americans. LISTEN TO TETIANA POUDEL: https://link.chtbl.com/Tetiana_Poudel?sid=ShePivots_070324 Revisit Tetiana Poudel’s episode–the story of a Ukrainian woman who was called to serve her country when Russia attacked it. She Pivots was created by host Emily Tisch Sussman to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about our amazing guests, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast or visit shepivotsthepodcast.com.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You may know Ilana from her award-winning TV series, Broad City, and her self-admittedly “wild” and “free” character, Ilana Wexler. However, Ilana has soared far beyond her character on the Broad City, writing and starring in her own movies, including Babes (in theaters now!!), releasing her own stand-up comedy special, and diving into political activism through the Generator Collective. On this episode of She Pivots, the comedian, activist, producer, and actress talks about how Broad City went from a web series to a critically acclaimed series on Comedy Central; the differences between her character on Broad City and herself; why she decided to launch Generator Collective and what they’re doing this year before the upcoming election; and how creating Babes was an immensely personal process. She Pivots was created by host Emily Tisch Sussman to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Ilana, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast or visit shepivotsthepodcast.com.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Alexis McGill Johnson never had taking over Planned Parenthood on her life’s bingo card. But as a woman whose family tree is full of inspirational women, it’s no surprise that Alexis has been able to steer the organization through one of the most tumultuous times for women’s health care access. On this episode of She Pivots, Alexis shares the stories of her grandmother and mother who paved the way for her success, pivoting from teaching at Yale and Wesleyan to organizing, working at the intersection of politics and hip hop, founding and growing the Perception Institute, and becoming the leader of Planned Parenthood. She also details what the reproductive health care landscape looks like now and what’s ahead in the fight for abortion rights. She Pivots was created by host Emily Tisch Sussman to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Alexis, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast or visit shepivotsthepodcast.com.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jennifer Esposito grew up in Staten Island, surrounded by the violence of the Mafia and dreaming of escaping and making it to the big screen. But it wasn’t until her recent film, Fresh Kills, that she was truly able to claim her career for herself and tell the stories of the human experience that she longed to share with the world. On this episode of She Pivots, Jennifer talks with Emily about the disappointments in her early career, her battle with celiac disease, and why Fresh Kills is so deeply personal to her - a letter to her former self. Be sure to subscribe, leave us a rating, and share with your friends if you liked this episode! She Pivots was created by host Emily Tisch Sussman to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Jennifer, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast or visit shepivotsthepodcast.com.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Shannon Watts had been a stay-at-home mom for five years when she turned on the TV to see horror unfolding at an elementary school in Newtown, Connecticut. After witnessing the aftermath of the murder of 20 children and 6 adults on that cold day in December, Shannon knew she had to channel her rage into action. What started as a Facebook page called One Million Moms for Gun Control eventually became Moms Demand Action, one of the leading advocacy groups in the country fighting our country’s gun violence epidemic. In this episode of She Pivots, Shannon recounts growing up with ADHD and finding her passion for journalism; leaving behind her successful PR career to prioritize her kids; the lessons learned from losing the vote on universal background checks; the importance of diversity in leadership; and what’s next for her after stepping down as CEO of Moms Demand Action. Be sure to subscribe, leave us a rating, and share with your friends if you liked this episode! She Pivots was created by host Emily Tisch Sussman to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Shannon, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast or visit shepivotsthepodcast.com.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For the first 42 years of Julia’s life, she lived in a ultra-Orthodox community working as a teacher. But her decision to leave that community in 2013 set her on an entirely new course, launching shoe and clothing lines, writing a best-selling book, and becoming the star of her own reality TV show, My Unorthodox Life. In this episode of She Pivots, Julia reveals what life was like in the Haredi community, how a comment from her daughter pushed her to leave, her commitment to women and making their world better, and how she fought back in her very public and very controversial divorce battle. Be sure to subscribe, leave us a rating, and share with your friends if you liked this episode! She Pivots was created by host Emily Tisch Sussman to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Julia, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast or visit shepivotsthepodcast.com.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fran Drescher is an American pop culture icon, having made her mark in the 1990s in the starring role of her sitcom, The Nanny. But Fran has faced her fair share of pain, too–pain that inspired some of her most impactful career pivots. In this special episode of She Pivots, recorded live at Lincoln Center, Fran discusses the inspiration for The Nanny, how she leveraged her international fame and personal fight with cancer to create Cancer Schmancer, and her experiences serving as President of SAG-AFTRA during the longest strike in the union’s history. Be sure to subscribe, leave us a rating, and share with your friends if you liked this episode! She Pivots was created by host Emily Tisch Sussman to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Fran, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast or visit shepivotsthepodcast.com.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kelly and Norah were on very different life paths. Kelly was a model, who spent her free time volunteering with Head Start - an experience that opened her eyes to how many children lacked basic necessities, like properly fitting shoes. Norah was a lawyer at a high-powered New York City firm, who enjoyed engaging in pro bono work, especially in helping low-income women secure housing and other resources. But a dinner between the two - arranged by Kelly’s father-in-law - revealed their shared passions for nonprofit work, their new status as mothers, and their interest in pivoting in their careers, eventually leading to the two women becoming the CEOs of Baby2Baby. Now, Baby2Baby provides millions of diapers and other essentials to those in need and garners support from an impressive list of celebrities, including Jessica Alba, Kim Kardashian, Ayesha Curry, and Drew Barrymore. In this episode of She Pivots, Kelly and Norah talk about the role of celebrity engagement in Baby2Baby, the logistics of their first 100,000 diaper donation, and overcoming sexism they have faced as CEOs of a female-led non-profit. Be sure to subscribe, leave us a rating, and share with your friends if you liked this episode! She Pivots was created by host Emily Tisch Sussman to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Kelly and Norah, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast or visit shepivotsthepodcast.com.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Christy Turlington was only 14 when she started her modeling career - a career that has cemented her as one of the most legendary supermodels in history. But a near-death experience during the birth of her daughter changed the course of her journey. On this special Mother’s Day episode of She Pivots, Christy talks about the influences of her mother’s El Salvadoran heritage, her close relationship with Naomi Campbell, the founding and mission of Every Mother Counts, and the decisions she has made around her daughter Grace’s entry into the modeling world. Be sure to subscribe, leave us a rating, and share with your friends if you liked this episode! She Pivots was created by host Emily Tisch Sussman to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Christy, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast or visit shepivotsthepodcast.com.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You may know Emelia Hartford from last year’s film, Gran Turismo, or from her YouTube channel, where she builds and customizes cars for over 1 million subscribers. However, the successful career in cars, social media, and acting didn’t happen overnight. In this incredibly candid episode of She Pivots, Emelia recounts how her father’s suicide–and subsequently finding cars as an outlet for healing–has shaped her life. She opens up about the freedom she found in her driver’s license, the challenges she faced in making it to the big screen, and her advocacy for mental health. Be sure to subscribe, leave us a rating, and share with your friends if you liked this episode! She Pivots was created by host Emily Tisch Sussman to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Emelia, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast or visit shepivotsthepodcast.com. Trigger warning: There are references to suicide that may be sensitive to some. Please listen with care. Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Crystal McCrary McGuire is what one might call an icon (she has an And Just Like That character based on her!!) but her journey has been far from linear. An accomplished entertainment lawyer, writer, producer, director, and businesswoman, Crystal is now on to her latest venture with her son and NBA player, Cole Anthony. The two co-founded GameUp, an app for parents navigating youth sports. On this episode of She Pivots, Crystal shares her feelings of “otherness” attending a majority white school in the suburbs of Detroit, how working in entertainment law gave her a roadmap to entering into a creative profession, the role of documentary filmmaking in her life, and launching GameUp with her son. Be sure to subscribe, leave us a rating, and share with your friends if you liked this episode! She Pivots was created by host Emily Tisch Sussman to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Crystal, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast or visit shepivotsthepodcast.com.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Growing up in India, Chandrika Tandon broke with tradition to pursue her education and became a high-powered, glass ceiling-shattering partner at the consulting firm, McKinsey & Company. But a “crisis of spirit” led her to re-evaluate her life, leave behind her corporate position, establish her own company, while simultaneously pursuing her passion: music. In this episode, Chandrika talks with Emily about where she got her love for books, her hunger strike to convince her parents to let her attend college, arriving in New York City during the winter in a sari, her philanthropic work, and her Grammy nomination. Be sure to subscribe, leave us a rating, and share with your friends if you liked this episode! She Pivots was created by host Emily Tisch Sussman to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Chandrika, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast or visit shepivotsthepodcast.com.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jo Piazza joins us this week to talk about her latest book, “The Sicilian Inheritance” that is sure to be the book of the summer. As a journalist, author, and fellow podcast host, Jo has learned to adapt to the growing influencer economy, pulling inspiration from women like the Kardashians to master the art of self-promotion. Emily and Jo chat about her new book (out now!) and how Jo may or may not have started the “mob wife” aesthetic. They also explore actionable ways women can uplift one another as they shamelessly self promote themselves. Be sure to subscribe, leave us a rating, and share with your friends if you liked this episode! She Pivots was created by host Emily Tisch Sussman to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Jo, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast or visit shepivotsthepodcast.com.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sali Christeson was in a fast-paced finance and technology career, but struggled with what many professional women have faced: lacking clothing options that were confidence-inspiring, comfortable, and bold. That’s why she founded Argent, which aims to redefine the modern women’s work wardrobe. In this week’s candid convo, Sali dives into her Turkish-Southern family background (including how her parents met in a Turkish bazaar!), what she learned from working at Cisco, how she approaches conversations with staff who aren’t the right fit, and the success of the viral pink suit worn by Katie Couric, Gretchen Whitmer, Cecile Richards and more! Be sure to subscribe, leave us a rating, and share with your friends if you liked this episode! She Pivots was created by host Emily Tisch Sussman to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Sali, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast or visit shepivotsthepodcast.com.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, we’re thrilled to drop an episode from one of our very favorite podcasts, Hype Woman, featuring our own host Emily Tisch Sussman! Emily sits down with friend and certified hype woman Erin Gallagher to talk about her own pivots and what she’s learned from the highs and lows of it all. She recounts a conversation with a college advisor, where she was told that she was aiming too high; reflects on her desire at a young age to step out from behind the limelight of her family name and have a serious DC political career; and shares how having three kids in three years made her reevaluate what was important. You won’t want to miss this very personal, energizing conversation between Emily and Erin! Subscribe, leave us and Hype Women a rating, and share with your friends if you liked this episode! Be sure to follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast and Hype Women @We_HypeWomen.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You may know Brooke Baldwin from her time on CNN, or, more recently, as the host of the Netflix hit reality show, The Trust: A Game of Greed. Like Emily, Brooke was taught that achieving success requires blood, sweat, and tears (literally). But as she’s grown - and pivoted! - her mindset has changed. In this candid convo, Brooke talks with Emily about hustling early in her career, the highs (and lows) of leaving behind a dream career, and getting her first tattoo. Be sure to subscribe, leave us a rating, and share with your friends if you liked this episode! She Pivots was created by host Emily Tisch Sussman to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Brooke, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast or visit shepivotsthepodcast.com.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this special, very personal episode of She Pivots, Emily is joined by her sister, Carolyn Tisch Blodgett, the new owner of the women’s soccer franchise Gotham FC and the Founder and CEO of Next 3. As the world of women’s sports enters a new era, Emily and Carolyn discuss what it’s like to be co-owners of an exciting soccer franchise, playing a key role in transforming the future of women’s sports, and what it means for their own family legacy. Carolyn also shares why she left her powerhouse career in marketing at Peloton and what to expect from the new season of Gotham FC! Be sure to subscribe, leave us a rating, and share with your friends if you liked this episode! She Pivots was created by host Emily Tisch Sussman to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Carolyn, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast or visit shepivotsthepodcast.com.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 2006, High School Musical became an instant classic, full of songs that are nearly impossible to get out of your head, even 17 years later. The movie proved to be a breakout role for then-teen Vanessa Hudgens, who dreamed of making it big on the silver screen. But Vanessa soon found that she had to distance herself from the “good girl” image of Disney in order to avoid being trapped in a single genre. On this episode of She Pivots, Vanessa recounts her first foray into Broadway, the impact of media scrutiny over her body, and the inspiration behind the Caliwater brand. Be sure to subscribe, leave us a rating, and share with your friends if you liked this episode! She Pivots was created by host Emily Tisch Sussman to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Vanessa, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast or visit shepivotsthepodcast.com.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the first Black woman to win the Eisner Award - a literary prize for comic books - Dr. Sheena Howard knows a thing or two about writing incredible superhero stories. But it took longer for her to realize that she could define her own path and become the hero in her own life story. On this episode of She Pivots, Dr. Howard dives into her dislike for the single parent stereotypes, finishing her PhD in three years, writing for DC Comics and Marvel, leaving an abusive relationship, and how she learns from her regrets. Be sure to subscribe, leave us a rating, and share with your friends if you liked this episode! She Pivots was created by host Emily Tisch Sussman to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Dr. Howard, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast or visit shepivotsthepodcast.com.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cindy Gallop, the CEO and Founder of MakeLoveNotPorn, has never played by the rules. Born and raised abroad, Cindy climbed the ranks of the advertising industry, despite often being one of the only women in the room. But after leaving her corporate advertising role, she stumbled upon her new calling while doing research for a client pitch on online dating: providing sex education through a reimagined porn website. On this episode of She Pivots, Cindy talks with Emily about why she fell in love with New York City, sexism in the advertising industry, what she has learned from dating younger men, and why conversations around (and right before!) sex are so crucial. Be sure to subscribe, leave us a rating, and share with your friends if you liked this episode! She Pivots was created by host Emily Tisch Sussman to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Cindy, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast or visit shepivotsthepodcast.com. Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You’ve probably seen Rebecca Minkoff’s bags on the streets of New York City, in paparazzi photos, or inside the pages of magazines. But after returning from maternity leave, she confesses that she felt like a "stranger" in her own company--a turning point that refocused her attention on building a space to support other female founders. On this episode of She Pivots, Rebecca talks with Emily about the hard work that was required to get her business off the ground; what it’s like working with her brother; the tough (but impactful) words an employee told her after she returned from maternity leave; and, the important work she is doing through her Female Founder Collective. Be sure to subscribe, leave us a rating, and share with your friends if you liked this episode! She Pivots was created by host Emily Tisch Sussman to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Rebecca, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast or visit shepivotsthepodcast.com.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Just in time for this year’s Super Bowl and Black History Month, Emily sits down with Sandra Douglass Morgan, President of the Las Vegas Raiders and Vice Chair of the Las Vegas Super Bowl Host Committee, to talk about her deep love for her hometown and the process of bringing the Super Bowl to entertainment capital of the world for the first time ever. Sandra, the first Black woman to serve as an NFL team president, is no stranger to smashing glass ceilings, having been the first Black city attorney in the state of Nevada and the first Black person and second woman to chair the state’s Gaming Control Board. On this episode of She Pivots, Sandra shares how she’s striving to open doors for other women and why football fans are going to have an experience like no other this Super Bowl Sunday. Be sure to subscribe, leave us a rating, and share with your friends if you liked this episode! She Pivots was created by host Emily Tisch Sussman to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Sandra, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast or visit shepivotsthepodcast.com. Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Elizabeth Bellak grew up in the limelight. Dubbed the “Polish Shirley Temple,” she had big dreams for her acting career. But all that changed when the Nazis invaded her hometown. On this emotional episode of She Pivots, the now-94-year-old talks with Emily about hiding in plain sight under a new name in convents, the murder of her sister and future discovery of her diary, her escape to Austria and then New York, and the building of a new life in America. Elizabeth also makes a plea for tolerance and acceptance–a critical, timely message that is not to be missed. Be sure to subscribe, leave us a rating, and share with your friends if you liked this episode! She Pivots was created by host Emily Tisch Sussman to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Elizabeth, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast or visit shepivotsthepodcast.com. Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For our Season 3 premiere of She Pivots, host Emily Tisch Sussman sits down with Misty Copeland—principal ballerina with American Ballet Theater, mother, designer, author, and philanthropist. Misty recounts falling in love with ballet, being part of a difficult public custody battle, and the challenges of injuries in her early career. She also opens up about the isolation of being the only Black ballerina in the room, –an experience that drives her advocacy and philanthropy today–and how becoming a mother has shaped her life. (And for the Swifties: Misty talks about how performing with the superstar at the American Music Awards was “an incredible experience.”) Be sure to subscribe, leave us a rating, and share with your friends if you liked this episode! She Pivots was created by host Emily Tisch Sussman to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Misty, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast or visit shepivotsthepodcast.com. Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

She Pivots returns for its third season to dig deeper into the personal moments that shifted our guests’ perspectives and opened up new, unexpected paths. Hear from our all-star roster of women, including trailblazer Misty Copeland, actress Vanessa Hudgens, fashion designer Rebecca Minkoff, and iconic CEO Cindy Gallop. Whether you’re in the midst of your own pivot or considering a change in the new year, our guests will inspire you with their stories of perseverance and transformation. With a new episode every week, be sure to subscribe and follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast!Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Shay Mitchell rose to fame on the wildly popular show, Pretty Little Liars, but has since built a travel essentials empire with BÉIS. On this Season 2 finale of She Pivots, Shay joins Emily to talk about her early experiences traveling with her family, the impact of Pretty Little Liars, becoming a mom, and the inspiration behind BÉIS. This episode is deeply personal and dives into “mom shaming,” fear when launching a new business (especially right before a global pandemic!), and navigating the highs and lows of social media. Be sure to subscribe, leave us a rating and share with your friends if you liked this episode! She Pivots was created to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Shay, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Marisa Renee Lee is an advocate, writer, and speaker on coping with grief, especially for women and African American communities. This week on She Pivots, Marisa joined Emily for a timely “Candid Convo” focused on how grief impacts us all and how we can show up for our loved ones when they are experiencing grief. Marisa talks openly about her own experiences with grief—from losing her mother to breast cancer to struggles with infertility—and reflects on how those challenges shaped her. These short “Candid Convos” will highlight the personal, the professional, and of a little pivoting along the way. Hope you enjoy! Be sure to subscribe, leave us a rating and share with your friends if you liked this episode! She Pivots was created to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Marisa, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bobbi Brown revolutionized the makeup world with her neutral lipsticks—but that was just her start. From there, Bobbi has taken the beauty industry by storm, and has even branched out into hospitality, media, and wellness. On this episode of She Pivots, recorded live in The Church in Sag Harbor, Bobbi talks with Emily about her decision to stay on with her brand for decades—and her decision to walk away—her foray into the hotel business, and the values she holds onto as she’s building something new. Be sure to subscribe, leave us a rating and share with your friends if you liked this episode! She Pivots was created to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Bobbi, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Laura Spaulding was only 19 years old when she was dishonorably discharged from military service due to Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell—her paperwork was stamped with “homosexual,” something that haunted her as she sought to find a new career. After finding a job in the police force working undercover in narcotics, the reality of what victims’ families deal with in the aftermath of a crime made her reimagine her career path. On this episode of She Pivots, Laura recounts when she first had the idea to launch a crime scene cleanup service, how she got the business off the ground with no credit, and the expansion of her family in her late forties. Be sure to subscribe, leave us a rating and share with your friends if you liked this episode! She Pivots was created to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Laura, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After 10 years working in social, digital, and brand strategy, Neha Ruch launched Mother Untitled, a digital media platform committed to empowering women pausing or shifting careers to focus on family life. In this Candid Convo—just in time for back to school—Emily and Neha dig into the preconceptions people have about working moms and stay-at-home moms, about what it means for our identities when we become mothers, how we raise sensitive sons, and transparency around childcare support. They also provide insight into the new proprietary study from Mother Untitled on the perceptions and experiences of college-educated, stay-at-home mothers in America. These short “Candid Convos” will highlight the personal, the professional, and of a little pivoting along the way. Hope you enjoy! Be sure to subscribe, leave us a rating and share with your friends if you liked this episode! She Pivots was created to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Neha, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Edith Eger was only 15 when her family was violently removed from their home in Hungary by German Nazis and sent to concentration camps. But after surviving Auschwitz, and later immigrating to the United States, Dr. Eger kept her past a secret, even from her own children, until decades later. On this emotional episode of She Pivots, Dr. Eger discusses dancing for her survival at Auschwitz, her decision to get her PhD in her 50s, the power of sharing her story, and her advice for future generations. Be sure to subscribe, leave us a rating and share with your friends if you liked this episode! She Pivots was created to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Dr. Eger, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, She Pivots is doing something a little different. We originally planned to air a conversation with an incredible writer and actor - but she is currently on the picket line advocating for fair wages for her and her fellow actors. In honor of the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strike, we are sharing some resources to support all of the actors and writers striking for better contracts. You can head to the “Our Causes” page on our website to find out how you can support our friends on the picket line. In the meantime, we’re re-releasing one of our favorite episodes from Season 1. Tune in to hear about Reshma Saujani’s incredible journey that recounts her time running for Congress, starting Girls Who Code, and the deeply personal moment that led her to reevaluate it all - eventually inspiring her to create her current non-profit "Moms First." Be sure to subscribe, leave us a rating and share with your friends if you liked this episode! She Pivots was created to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Reshma and the WGA / SAG-AFTRA strike, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Laura Coe founded Snapology—an educational company based on the idea that STEM can be both academically rewarding and fun—out of necessity. As a health care actuary who traveled frequently, and a mother of two facing divorce, Laura pivoted to ensure she would maintain custody of her children. On this episode of She Pivots, Laura discusses her inspiration for the company, the impact of COVID on Snapology, and why persistence was critical in launching her own business. Be sure to subscribe, leave us a rating and share with your friends if you liked this episode! She Pivots was created to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Laura, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Carla Stickler became Elphaba in Wicked in 2010, she knew her career was thriving. But burnout can hit us even when we’re doing the thing we love most, especially in a notoriously competitive space like Broadway. On this episode of She Pivots, Carla talks about the physical and emotional demands of her career on Broadway and her decision to leave the big stage to become a software engineer. Be sure to subscribe, leave us a rating and share with your friends if you liked this episode! She Pivots was created to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Carla, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nina Westbrook is a woman wearing many hats: mother of three, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, entrepreneur, podcast host, and wife to NBA All-star Russell Westbrook. In this Candid Convo, Nina joins Emily to talk about her career as a mental health therapist, creating her digital wellness platform, Bene, and the challenges in building stability while frequently moving for her husband’s job. Plus, Emily and Nina play Do-Tell!, a new card game from Nina focused on meaningful conversations with friends and family. These short “Candid Convos” will highlight the personal, the professional, and of a little pivoting along the way. Hope you enjoy! Be sure to subscribe, leave us a rating and share with your friends if you liked this episode! She Pivots was created to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Nina, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Hills forever changed reality TV. And for Lo Bosworth, one of the stars of the show, being on reality TV since high school shaped her experiences growing up, attending college, and figuring out life after the cameras turned off. On this episode of She Pivots, Lo talks about her experiences with bullying, her decision to attend culinary school, and her health challenges that led to founding her successful women’s wellness brand, Love Wellness. Be sure to subscribe, leave us a rating and share with your friends if you liked this episode! She Pivots was created to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Lo, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you've ever been frustrated by the options for women's workwear, you're not alone. This week's guest, Sarah LaFleur, decided to leave her high-powered career in management consulting to launch M.M.LaFleur, an elevated clothing brand for working women. M.M. LaFleur is blazing a trail for a new kind of brand endorsement by dressing women running for office and the WNBA. In this Candid Convo, Sarah discusses how she launched her brand, the impact of COVID on M.M.LaFleur, and her experience dressing Cynthia Nixon throughout her gubernatorial race. These short “Candid Convos” will highlight the personal, the professional, and of a little pivoting along the way. Hope you enjoy! Be sure to subscribe, leave us a rating and share with your friends if you liked this episode! She Pivots was created to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Sarah, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stacy London’s journey with fashion—an industry she was drawn to during her battle with psoriasis—began long before her TV debut. But she became a household name during her time co-hosting TLC’s What Not to Wear in the early 2000s. After the show ended, Stacy began to grapple with her changing career and her changing body. On this episode of She Pivots, recorded live in New York City, Stacy discusses being on TLC while managing her chronic illness, becoming a leading voice on menopause, and what’s in store as she approaches her next pivot. Thank you to the the Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan for hosting our first ever this live recording of She Pivots last fall. Be sure to subscribe, leave us a rating and share with your friends if you liked this episode! She Pivots was created to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Stacy, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you’re a fan of reality shows focused on love, then you’ve probably heard of the hit podcast, Reality Gays with Mattie and Poodle. The two hosts, Jake Anthony and Matt Marr, join Emily to share the story of how all three of them met working at a summer theater camp, how the hosts got their show off the ground, and the changes they’ve seen in the podcasting industry since they joined. Oh, and don’t forget the stories of winning $600,000 on a game show, or almost getting stuck in China during the pandemic! These short “Candid Convos” will highlight the personal, the professional, and of a little pivoting along the way. Hope you enjoy! Be sure to subscribe, leave us a rating and share with your friends if you liked this episode! She Pivots was created to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Jake and Matt, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast.Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With a new season of Bravo’s legacy show The Real Housewives of New York set to air July 16th, Emily sat down with the show's newest star Erin Lichy. As a self-described straightforward Housewife, Erin is ready for whatever is in store for this new era of RHONY. In this Candid Convo, Erin discusses her relationships with her fellow castmates, the decision to join the iconic reality TV series, and the ups and downs of motherhood. These short “Candid Convos” will highlight the personal, the professional, and of a little pivoting along the way. Hope you enjoy! Be sure to subscribe, leave us a rating and share with your friends if you liked this episode! She Pivots was created to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Erin, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast. Support the show: https://www.shepivotsthepodcast.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.