Today, we’ve got a special bonus episode of “9 to 5ish” for you. Our guest is Nikki Haley, the former governor of South Carolina and former US Ambassador to the United Nations during the Trump Administration. She’s currently running for the Republican nomination for president. In this episode, we talk to Governor Haley about the job she wants, running against her former boss, and her positions on reproductive rights, the economy, and more.  At theSkimm, we’ve mobilized hundreds of thousands of women to vote. And it’s important that we hear directly from the candidates about the policy positions that impact women. We’ve also invited President Biden and former president Trump to sit down with us. 

Fern Mallis – aka “fashion’s godmother” – is a legend in the industry. She’s the founder of New York Fashion Week and the former executive director of the Council of Fashion Designers of America. Over decades working behind the scenes, Fern has seen it all – from disasters, to demanding personalities, to less-than-friendly behavior. So it makes sense that Fern told us her best piece of career advice is refreshingly simple: Just be nice. Your move, Miranda Priestly.  In this episode, Fern shares:  Her behind-the-scenes look into the fashion world  The origin story of Fashion Week  How she’s thought about reinventing herself and her career Why she’s never stuck to a career plan  How she got her biggest opportunities by raising her hand  Psst: Need a movie rec? Catch “Scrambled,” at a theater near you starting February 2nd. Rated R, under 17 not admitted without parent.

Lori Coulter and Reshma Chattaram Chamberlin are the co-founders of Summersalt, the clothing brand that launched in 2017 with perfect-fit swimsuits. Now, Summersalt has expanded to offer activewear, apparel, and loungewear, and has raised over $25 million dollars. In today’s episode, Lori and Reshma walk us through how they built the brand, why they decided to partner with each other, and what people don’t tell you about being an entrepreneur.  In this episode, Lori and Reshma share:  How they created a brand that’s unapologetically for women  Their advice for future entrepreneurs How the fundraising landscape has changed for brands  Why connecting to your customer is critical

Influencer, Summer Fridays co-founder, and podcast host Marianna Hewitt does everything with intention. She’s become an expert at creating habits and routines that set her up for success and allow her to prioritize her own happiness. Today, we spoke with the beauty creator and founder about how she’s been intentional throughout her career, and about her most successful habits and hacks.  In this episode, Marianna shares:  How growing up living between Ohio and Germany influenced her career Her process for taking inventory of her career and checking in with herself How she sets boundaries and says “no” Her journey launching Summer Fridays How to actually reduce your screen time and mend your relationship with social media

Julie Rice and Elizabeth Cutler are two-time wellness founders. Their first business, SoulCycle, revolutionized the wellness, fitness, and fashion industries (they basically invented athleisure). Now, their second venture is focused on exercising a different muscle – our relational fitness. We spoke with Julie and Elizabeth about how relationships have been the key to their success, and how they’ve learned to navigate hard professional and personal conversations.  In this episode, Julie and Elizabeth share:  Why relational fitness is essential to being a better professional – and how to improve yours When they knew it was time to exit SoulCycle How they manage and nurture their partnership  How the brand of SoulCycle exploded  What it takes to build more than one business

Jane Hertzmark Hudis is one of the most prominent beauty executives in the country. As an executive group president of the Estée Lauder Companies – the organization she’s been at for over 30 years – she oversees some of the biggest beauty brands in the world, including Tom Ford Beauty and La Mer. Her secret to making it to the top? Embrace the beauty of connections, find mentors, and hire a team you can learn from.  In this episode, Jane shares:  Why it’s crucial to hire people who are smarter than you  Her tips for making work travel more bearable  Her experience raising children while on the executive track How she thought about growing her career at one company What Kendall Jenner taught her about social media 

9 to 5ish will be back in your feed in January. Samina Virk is the CEO of North America for Vestiaire Collective, the rapidly-growing luxury fashion resale site. And Samina told us she attributes her rise in the fashion industry to strategic career mapping. Whether it’s engaging in a personal brainstorming session or proactively discussing career plans with mentors and higher-ups, Samina explained how setting intentions can yield big results.   In this episode, Samina shares:  Her approach to negotiating for what you want How to get leaders and higher-ups thinking about your career path  Why you should lean on your friends more for career support  Her decision to return to Vestiaire, having previously worked at the company  How she conducts her personal brainstorming sessions

Cynthia Williams is the third generation in her family to work in the auto industry. After joining Ford in 1992, she’s now the company’s Global Director of Sustainability, Homologation and Compliance. The key to rising to a top position in the org? Support from higher-ups. This week, Cynthia told us how she navigated and grew her relationships with company leadership, and got their guidance and support for her career journey.  In this episode, Cynthia shares:  Why the best opportunities come to people who have career flexibility   What to do whenever you get the opportunity to talk to a key leader at your company  Her advice for negotiation What homologation actually means Her experience leading a team through a rapidly-changing auto landscape  

From the outside, you would think singer, songwriter, actress, and TV host Rita Ora has always felt fully in control of her career. But like a lot of us, Rita struggled with self doubt about her career direction – on top of facing industry challenges. Still, none of that stopped her from achieving the multidimensional career she wanted. This week, we spoke with Rita about how she remained intentional and purposeful in the face of setbacks, and how she grew her brand and her confidence. In this episode, Rita shares:  The wellness practice she swears by  How she manages her anxiety  Why - and how - she’s created a “360-degree” career for herself  Her experience suing her former label, Roc Nation, for neglect The mantra she repeats to herself when she faces adversity 

9 to 5ish will be back in your feed on December 6th! Anna Wesche is the brains behind a new podcast from Flamingo, an award-winning body hair and care brand whose mission is to champion women, their bodies, and their choices. In this After 5ish conversation, Anna shares her experience making some major career pivots, creating the opportunities you want, and how Flamingo’s brand new podcast, “Unruly”, centers female stories. In this episode, Anna shares:  Why she struggled to find purpose early in her career – and how she’s found it now  What it was like to work full-time and go back to school  The episodes of "Unruly" you won’t want to miss

Author, businesswoman, designer, and chef Joanna Gaines used to let guilt and anxiety consume her. As a mom of five children, and as one half of one of the most successful lifestyle brands in the country, Joanna is now battling her burnout by letting go of those feelings. This week, we spoke to Joanna about that shift to free herself from the pressure of expectations and what it’s unlocked for her, professionally and personally.  In this episode, Joanna shares:  How she and Chip built a loyal and diverse audience  Why she still has a “small business” mindset, despite all her success The realities of raising five children and running her business How she’s dealt with the pressure of other people’s expectations – and her own  Her favorite activities that spark creativity

Annie Jean-Baptiste is Google’s first-ever Head of Product Inclusion. TLDR: she’s a tech executive responsible for making all of Google’s products inclusive for every user. Annie is also the author of the critically-acclaimed book, Building for Everyone, the first book about building inclusive products across the intersections of 12 dimensions of diversity. Annie's work has inspired a movement at other tech companies and in other industries to prioritize equity in design. In this episode, Annie shares:  Why Google created a position for her – and how that came to be  How she’s used her introversion as a leadership tool  What leaders need to understand about designing inclusive products  Why she’s still working on "speaking up" as a leader

Actress-turned-entrepreneur Cameron Diaz and consumer brand builder Katherine Power (WhoWhatWear, Merit Beauty, Versed) had been friends for years before they decided to launch Avaline, their transparently produced organic wine brand. After realizing the wines they loved were full of additives and hidden ingredients, they saw an opportunity to create a new kind of bottle – and transform the wine industry in the process. We spoke with them about how they've transformed their careers, and their lives, by launching this brand. In this episode, they share:  Why Cameron left acting behind – and what that’s unlocked for her Katherine’s tips for time management and efficiency  What we can’t Google about Cameron  How they broke into the alcohol industry  The surprising things you should look for when choosing wine

When Jen Psaki became President Obama’s White House Communications Director, she was pregnant. Later, she became President Biden’s Press Secretary, and she had to navigate her role as a mom and as the White House’s chief spokesperson. And considering when you work for the president, you’re expected to be on call 24/7, that's a big challenge. Today, we spoke to Jen about what doing both actually looked like for her – from the hard realities to the help she got along the way.  In this episode, Jen shares:  What a job interview with the president is like  Why she regrets not seeking feedback early in her career Her non-traditional approach to mentoring  What she learned from not getting the job she wanted the first time   How she set boundaries, even when on call 24/7 

Jada Pinkett Smith’s memoir, Worthy, has made a big splash for its bombshell revelations … and it hasn’t even been out for a week. But the book from the award-winning actress and talk show host is not just tabloid fodder – it’s also a critical part of Jada’s “reclamation journey”. In this episode, Jada tells her career story – how she’s navigated Hollywood, having a world-famous spouse, death threats, and public judgment. And come out stronger for it.  In this episode, Jada shares:  Her dream Red Table Talk guest  Why she had to learn to deal with her self-judgment   How to have difficult conversations with friends and family Her perspective on *that* Red Table conversation between her and Will   Why her alopecia diagnosis has been a great “teacher”

Michelle Crossan-Matos, the CMO of Ulta Beauty, is one of the most prominent marketing executives in the country. And she told us she didn’t just get to her position by crunching the numbers and digging into data. She used her intuition and gut instinct to launch new campaigns, solve problems, and grow brands. Today, we spoke to Michelle about how your intuition can be your professional superpower … if you know how to listen.  In this episode, Michelle shares:  Why she wakes up at 4:30am every day  Why everyone needs to develop a sense of personal leadership, even if you’re not in the c-suite The interview question she always asks candidates  The professional mistake she learned the most from How she combats decision fatigue at work

Joey Wölffer didn’t ever think she’d take over her family’s business, the Wölffer Estate winery. But over a decade after surprising herself and becoming the co-owner and chief brand officer of the beloved vineyard, Joey has transformed the brand and the business. You’ve probably seen their famous Summer in a Bottle rose or their sparkling ciders on shelves near you. And Joey’s done all of that while building her own fashion business, Joey Wölffer. On today’s episode, Joey shares her secrets to creating a unique and relevant brand. In this episode, shares:  How losing her father unexpectedly changed her mindset about her career Why she wasn’t a fit for corporate America Her experience building two businesses at once What it’s like to work with her brother and her husband  How she calls out a lack of gender representation in the alcohol industry

Colleen Cutcliffe, co-founder and CEO of the groundbreaking probiotics company Pendulum Therapeutics, started the company with a big goal in mind: changing the way people think about their gut health. And on her journey, she’s had to challenge traditional – and sometimes outdated – thinking from the medical community and investors. In this episode, Colleen told us how she’s been able to disrupt the industry, and gives her advice for making changes in any workplace.  In this episode, Colleen shares:  How she convinced the dean of her PhD program to let her stay – despite almost getting kicked out  Why her daughter’s birth inspired her to start Pendulum  How she dealt with being told “no”  The ways she’s cultivated trust and transparency with her team Why she’s got Halle Berry on speed dial  PS: Skimm'rs get 20% off their first month of any Pendulum product(s) with code SKIMM9TO5.

Alicia Menendez, MSNBC anchor, award-winning journalist, and host of the Latina to Latina podcast, was so concerned about being likable at work that she wrote a whole book about it. She even created a name for that pressure women feel to be amenable in the office – "the likability trap." And as an on-camera journalist, she’s fallen into that trap throughout her career. In this episode, we spoke with Alicia about her journey with likability, how that affected her professional and personal wellbeing, and her recommendations for carving out your own professional identity.  In this episode, shares:  Why she didn’t go into politics like her father  How she’s dealt with the pressure of other people’s expectations What she’s done to carve out her own leadership style and professional identity  How she talks to her daughters about likability  Her advice for avoiding getting caught up in the trap, and getting your coworkers and managers to do the same 

For over a decade, Emily Tisch Sussman was one of the top political strategists in the country, advising Democratic candidates and campaigns. Then, after having three children in four years, and faced with no childcare during a global pandemic, Emily realized she couldn’t get back to the top of her game… or back in the game at all. So, she stepped away from politics and the professional identity she had known for 15 years. Now, after going through her own major pivot, she’s talking to other women about their career journeys on the 'She Pivots' podcast.  In this episode, shares:  The line she used that got her every job she’s had  Why she wrote an article saying her children “killed” her career – and how she felt after writing it  Why she wasn’t connecting to the traditional narratives around being a working mother Her advice for women who’ve also had to shift their professional identities  What it'll take for politicians to pass policies that better support families

When Hill House Home first started, founder and CEO Nell Diamond wasn’t focused on selling the now-famous “Nap Dress”, or cultivating her Instagram presence. Rather, the brand started as a bedding company, and Nell’s Instagram was a space for her creativity. Seven years later, the Nap Dress is a cult-favorite, selling out in minutes, Nell’s created the model for the influencer-entrepreneur, and Hill House is now valued at $150M. In this episode, shares:  Why she followed her instincts to go into fashion, despite people telling her it wasn’t a “serious” profession What her first job at Abercrombie taught her  Why you don’t need to be a natural risk-taker to be an entrepreneur The thing she wishes more executives would understand  The tools she’s leaned on as a manager and executive

Elizabeth Chambers has been through… a lot in the past few years. But the founder and CEO of BIRD Bakery isn’t letting her ex-husband or the headlines define her. She’s focused on expanding her business (which now has four locations) and helping her family heal. This week, we spoke to Elizabeth about how she’s found professional and personal stability. In this episode, shares:  Why she started BIRD Bakery How she’s set boundaries in her professional and personal life  What’s helped her on her healing journey – and why there’s no one size fits all path Her outlook on parenting  How she’s learned to sort through advice

Ashley Merrill, founder and chairwoman of the restwear brand Lunya, started the company when she was pregnant. As she built her brand, she was also growing her family, and her big career moments and her big parenting moments always seemed to align. On this episode, we spoke with Ashley about the misconceptions that being a parent is just a part time job, why we need to speak up about childcare support, and how she’s shifted her career as her children have gotten older.  In this episode, Ashley shares:  Why we need to adjust our expectations about being a working parent How she made the decision to hire a CEO for Lunya  What it was like to run two businesses during COVID Why the flexibility of entrepreneurship isn’t always a good thing 

For most of her career, Isa Watson felt like she was living somebody else’s life. She started out as a chemist working her way up the academic ranks, and then she became a world-traveling VP at JP Morgan. And a lot of people online started to take notice of her impressive career. Isa felt she was always chasing the validation of a ‘30 under 30’ or ‘40 under 40’ list, while neglecting her relationships and her own happiness. So, she stopped obsessing over that public praise. And founded Squad, the app that provides the easy and fun way to talk to your friends – away from social media.  In this episode, Isa shares:  How she’s dealt with the pressure of other people’s expectations The life event that put everything into perspective for her  How she rebuilt her relationship with herself  Why she added 'professional skydiver' to her resume Her advice for setting better boundaries with social media 

Lauren Wesley Wilson worked for politicians and crisis comms firms for years before she decided to start her own organization, ColorComm. ColorComm started as a luncheon series over ten years ago, and now has grown to become the nation’s leading women’s platform addressing diversity & inclusion across the communications, marketing, advertising, and media industries. This week, Lauren told us how she sought out to make the notoriously competitive communications industry more inclusive.  In this episode, Lauren shares:  How she navigated a cutthroat industry when she was starting out  Why she knew she needed to start ColorComm What she gave up to found ColorComm How she made the time and space for her personal life The goals she created for her personal life

You know Erin and Sara Foster as the sister-act behind the VH1 hit show “Barely Famous”, the co-founders of the fashion brand Favorite Daughter, and as the creative minds who’ve helped brands such as Bumble and the Mirror. After growing up in the entertainment world, the sisters not only decided to take on that industry, but also to take on fashion and investing. We spoke to the Fosters about the value of taking career risks – and why they’ve decided to redefine what success means to them. In this episode, Erin and Sara share:  The unexpected famous person they are related to  What they think of the “nepo baby” label  Why accolades can actually be depressing How their relationship has changed now that they’re in business together 

Nyakio Grieco has been paving the way for inclusive beauty and supporting Black entrepreneurs for her whole career. She launched her first beauty brand, Nyakio Beauty, in 2002. Then in 2020, she launched Thirteen Lune, the e-commerce platform dedicated to elevating Black and Brown beauty founders. While Nyakio is one of the most celebrated entrepreneurs in the industry, the road to the top was paved with hurdles. Including shuttering and relaunching her original brand, watching that brand take off after she sold it, and starting over as a founder at 47.  In this episode, Nyakio shares:  Her perspective on failure  How her optimism has served her throughout her career Why she’s focused on bringing her friends along on her journey How she stopped being a “people-pleaser” PS: Skimm listeners can get 20% off Thirteen Lune products using the code SKIMM20. Valid for 30 days from June 7, 2023.

To wrap up this season of 9 to 5ish, we’ve got a bonus episode with author Avery Carpenter Forrey. She was one of the first employees at theSkimm, who pivoted her career to become a writer. Her highly-anticipated debut novel, Social Engagement, drops on May 23rd, and explores millennial wedding culture, class, and relationships. This week, we spoke to Avery about how she pulled off the pivot, what tactical steps she took to get started, and how she maintained relationships with her former colleagues. Plus, she shares what it’s like to be a new mother while promoting her book. 

Today, we’re going back into the 9 to 5ish archives, to bring you one of our favorite episodes from last year - with Glow Recipe co-CEO and co-founder Christine Chang. We hope you enjoy Christine’s advice on how to make the jump from a corporate job to a startup, and we’ll be back with fresh episodes next week. Until then, please enjoy our conversation with Christine.  Every weekend growing up, Christine watched her mom and grandma go to the Korean bathhouses, rubbing things like tea and spoiled milk on their skin. And she’s been hooked on skincare ever since. Now, she’s the co-founder and co-CEO of the skincare brand, Glow Recipe. But before leading this new venture, she actually worked her way up the corporate ladder at L’Oreal. In this episode, Christine gives her advice on how to make the jump from corporate to startup, and what she learned at her desk job that she still uses today.  In this episode, Christine shares:  How she learned to lean on colleagues and mentors How having a co-founder eases the growing pains of a new business How her corporate experience helped in the startup mindset Why she and her co-founder turned down an offer from Shark Tank investors The important role that emerging technology like TikTok has played in her business

When Anastasia Soare started her brand Anastasia Beverly Hills from one room salon back in the 1990s, eyebrows were pencil-thin and an afterthought. 25 years (and one legendary appearance on the Oprah Winfrey Show) later, she’s become synonymous with eyebrows, created a multi-billion dollar brand and revolutionized the beauty industry. Today, we spoke to Anastasia about how she’s still an industry pioneer after all these years, and why she had an unshakeable belief that she’d be successful.  In this episode, Anastasia shares:  How her upbringing in Romania influenced her as a businesswoman  The story of how she convinced a landlord to give her space in Beverly Hills  How Oprah changed her life What it’s like to work with her daughter to grow her brand

Mary Celeste Beall’s life drastically changed in 2016, when she lost her husband Sam in a tragic ski accident. Just weeks later, her professional life also changed, when she was asked to step into the role of proprietor of the legendary Blackberry Farm and Blackberry Mountain resorts, a role Sam had occupied for years. We spoke to Mary Celeste about her experience becoming a leader, while also navigating her grief.   In this episode, Mary Celeste shares:  The conversation that led to her becoming proprietor  How she gained the team’s trust What it was like to have her work and her life completely integrated  The motto that gets her through  Her tips for being a great host 

Kristin Cavallari created the archetype for the reality-TV star-turned-mogul. She was on the OG reality show, Laguna Beach, when she was in high school. And she turned that fame (and notoriety) into a business empire. She’s now the owner of a jewelry and skincare brand and a New York Times bestselling author. And she made the jump from TV to the boardroom by following her instincts and leaning into her personality.  In this episode, Kristin shares:  Her best tips for negotiating  Why she cried when she watched the first episode of Laguna Beach What she’s like as a boss Why she decided to own 100% of her business Her advice for the Vanderpump Rules cast

Two-time entrepreneur Jessica Rolph is embracing what she calls “micro failures” at work. You know, when you say the wrong thing to a team member, make a mistake on a project, or you don’t communicate about something. These moments can feel small, but they can take a big toll on us. But Jessica believes it doesn’t have to be that way. As the co-founder of baby food biz Happy Family, which sold to Danone in 2013, and as the current co-founder of the child development company Lovevery, Jessica’s learned to push through the shame and lean into those moments to become a better leader.  In this episode, Jessica shares:  Why she scaled back on her friendships when she was working at Happy Family  How she thinks about “micro failures”  Why she was sad when they sold Happy Family  A moment where she felt lost at work When she decided to launch Lovevery

Thasunda Brown Duckett, the President and CEO of TIAA, had a “meteoric rise” in the world of finance. As the former head of Chase Consumer Banking, and now as one of two Black women who currently leads a Fortune 500 company, she realized early on that “work-life balance” was a myth. Instead, Thasunda lives her life like it’s a diversified portfolio, allocating time and shifting her investment in different areas. So over time, she always outperforms. Tune in to learn how.  In this episode, Thasunda shares:  How to live your life like “a diversified portfolio”  Her secret to building relationships at work What it means to “rent your title, own your character” at work Why she almost turned down her dream role What you need to know to prep for retirement

Kaitlan Collins, co-anchor and chief correspondent for CNN This Morning, is no stranger to sleeping four hours a night, or packing up to travel at a moment’s notice. Which is great if you love the news…but it’s not so great if you love your boundaries. This week, we spoke to Kaitlan about how she’s learned to set boundaries – from the anchor desk to the White House Briefing Room.  In this episode, Kaitlan shares:  The moments where she’s had to keep her composure on live TV  Her public speaking advice  How she’s dealt with public scrutiny – and political landmines  Her advice on dealing with change in the workplace

Debra Lee was the chairman and CEO of BET, where she worked for over three decades. But even though she was a leader in the entertainment world, Debra said her biggest career weakness was being “too nice”. This week, we sat down to talk about Debra’s new memoir, I Am Debra Lee, and how she stepped into her power as a leader – from taking back control of her senior staff meetings, to literally finding her voice.  In this episode, Debra shares… How she dealt with getting denied a raise Why men are promoted based on potential, and women are promoted based on experience  How she took her power back as an executive  The celeb who left her the most starstruck  And PS: There’s so much Debra shares in her new memoir – including some things we weren’t able to get to in our interview. You can find her book here. 

Bozoma Saint John is one of the most celebrated marketing execs out there. She’s worked for Apple, Uber, Endeavor, Pepsi, and Netflix…just to name a few. But while those big names are on her resume, Boz told us about the other titles that have influenced her and her career. Like ‘single mom.’ And ‘widow.’ This week, Boz explains how her story of love, loss, and survival has made her live “urgently”, especially when it comes to work. In this episode shares:  What it means to live urgently at work  Why you need to take the credit for what you do    How we can better show up for our colleagues that are grieving  Why grief has made her a better leader The hardest part of writing her memoir, The Urgent Life

Chantel George had a plan to go to law school. Then, she found out she was good at sales. Really good. In fact, she became one of the best sellers in the tech world. Chantel’s experience learning how to turn a ‘no’ into a ‘yes’, asking tough questions, and challenging the status quo convinced her she needed to start her own sales community. So in 2017, she started Sistas in Sales, the largest global organization for women of color in sales. In today’s episode, Chantel told us how she saw opportunities everywhere – even when they seemed out of reach or hard to spot.  In this episode, Chantel shares:  The earliest lessons she learned about entrepreneurship Why she’s not afraid of having tough conversations  The advice she got that made her a better manager  Who would play her in a movie

For Amy Griffin, being one of the most successful venture capitalists actually has a lot in common with being a college athlete. Amy played volleyball at the University of Virginia, and now as the founder and managing partner of G9 Ventures, she helps early-stage startups perform their best in a different kind of arena. And some of the companies she’s coached include Goop, Athletic Greens, and Bumble. This week, we ask Amy about the secret to her coaching magic. Which, spoiler, is all about relationships.  In this episode, Amy shares:  How her mentality as a college athlete stayed with her throughout her career Her experience stepping out of, and stepping back into, the workforce  How she supports founders through the good times – and the bad  Her approach to relationship-building  How founders can prepare for an uncertain economic environment 

From navigating war zones to negotiating with affiliates of terrorist organizations, Emily Hikade lived for the thrill of working as a CIA officer. But a near death experience at work made her realize: it was time to try a different kind of adventure. While in East Africa, Emily worked nights to start her luxury sleepwear brand, Petite Plume. Today, Emily shares how working in diplomacy prepared her for the challenges of being a founder and CEO. In this episode, Emily Hikade shares: Why she knew she’d have an international career from an early age The moment she started feeling vulnerable in her CIA career  What a near-death experience put into perspective for her How she started her business while working full-time and being a mom of three  Advice on how to know which investors are worth working with 

Pinky Cole came up with her business, Slutty Vegan, in her apartment in Atlanta. She started by taking orders through Instagram DMs and eventually expanded to multiple locations outside of ATL. Now, her company’s worth $100 million. But she says: she wouldn’t have gotten there without hitting rock bottom first. Today, how Pinky found her success, and why she wants to help people in the Black community find theirs too.  In this episode, Pinky shares:  Her favorite recipe from her new book, Eat Plants B*tch How a grease fire that destroyed her restaurant was actually a blessing Her philosophy on success – and why it’s not about being the only one winning Why giving up entrepreneurship and returning to a 9-5 job was the hardest thing she’s done in her career

When Kimberly Brown wrote a high school paper about her dream of becoming a social worker, she knew helping people would be central to her work. She ended up in higher ed as a career counselor. And after she helped her first student get a job, she was hooked. Since then, Kimberly founded her own company to help people – especially women of color – find meaningful work and level up in their careers.  In this episode, Kimberly shares: How celebrating her wins has helped her mental health Her advice to mid-career women on how to find that next step Who might be missing from your professional development network  Why the transition from higher ed to a corporation was the hardest career challenge she’s overcome

On this special episode of 9 to 5ish, Carly and Danielle take listeners through their favorite stories and moments from 2022.  In this episode, Carly and Danielle share: Their favorite moments from guest lightning round answers How prioritizing mental and physical health came up in nearly every episode Why many of their guests had to rethink their professional identities The people who got our guests through the year – and why they’re so important 9 to 5ish will be back in your feed next Thursday. See you in the new year. 

Carey Mulligan was rejected from several drama schools when she was a teenager. But instead of giving up, she sent a letter to a famous actor she’d met once. That letter led to a networking dinner, then to an audition for “Pride and Prejudice", and ultimately, her first role. Today, Carey shares how being bold in the face of rejection landed her in films on the big screen.  In this episode, Carey shares:  Why she reached out to Julian Fellowes for advice on pursuing acting How she navigated the industry without formal training or experience The hardest play she’s ever done – and why her director almost canceled it Why doing a press tour 3.5 weeks after having her kid helped her postpartum depression Her favorite episode of her new Amazon-exclusive podcast, “I Hear Fear”

Ashley Mills started in the mailroom at the talent agency CAA and worked her way up to becoming a talent agent. But after a decade there, she took a leap of faith and became the founder of obé Fitness, an on-demand exercise company. And Ashley says that on her journey as a founder, she had to listen to a lot of feedback – and grow from it – to be the leader she is today.    In this episode, Ashley Mills shares: How she uses exercise to gear up for new challenges The list of things you should think about before becoming an entrepreneur How the pandemic allowed Obé Fitness to shine Why getting feedback from her team was the hardest thing she’s endured in her career

Lisa Ling started working as a professional journalist when she was only a teenager. Her job flew her across the world as she covered the drug wars in South America to democracy movements in China. She’s grown to be a pro at telling other people’s stories. But she says: advocating for herself is the hardest thing she’s ever done.  In this episode, Lisa shares: The reporting experiences she had as a teen (alongside Anderson Cooper) Why her two male agents told her to leave negotiating to them  The one lesson she wishes her young self learned  How having kids reframed her boundaries around how far she’d go for her job Why it’s key for women of color to learn to advocate for each other in the workplace

Back in 2015 Jill Koziol and Liz Tenety realized: there wasn’t any empowering content for millennial moms. Instead, there were outdated tropes about what moms should be – and what they shouldn’t. That sparked the idea for their company, Motherly, a digital platform centering moms through non-judgmental content about parenthood, being a working parent, and everything in between. And today, Jill and Liz share how motherhood expanded and nourished their sense of self. In this episode, Jill and Liz share: One of the most shocking learnings from their State of Motherhood survey Why reclaiming your power by setting time for yourself is key The wake up call that told Jill she needed to prioritize her health  Why Liz reduced her duties as co-founder 

Shonda Rhimes and Betsy Beers were writing and producing movies when they realized: it was time to switch to TV. After meeting 1:1, they decided to enter that world together. Because when you know, you know. Since then, they’ve cultivated a partnership spanning nearly two decades. And they say that trust and honesty were key in creating Shondaland. AKA: the company behind our binge worthy faves like Bridgerton, Scandal, and Grey’s Anatomy.  In this episode, Shonda and Betsy share:  How ABC execs reacted to the Grey’s Anatomy pilot (spoiler: not good) Why skills you’ve learned at old jobs are always useful What their panic button is + why it’s key to supporting each other  How they set up an environment for their employees to thrive – and why they love it A Skimm of their book “Inside Bridgerton” 

Deepica Mutyala dyed her hair blonde and wore blue contacts trying to be like the cool kids in her Houston suburb. But soon she realized: being herself was in. Fitting into western beauty standards was out. Enter: Live Tinted, Deepica’s brainchild. Today, she shares how she turned her online community into a beauty brand that celebrates every shade of skin and in between.  In this episode, Deepica shares: What it was like growing up in Texas as a South Asian American girl When she knew it was time to quit her day job to become a beauty influencer How she knew she needed to create Live Tinted’s first product, the huestick  Why she decided to vlog her the journey of freezing her eggs How intentionally celebration her success keeps her from burning out

Constance Wu waitressed her way through her 30s in Hollywood while trying to book acting gigs. After multiple rejections, she felt crushed. Then – she decided to shift her mindset by detaching her self-worth from her jobs. That shift unlocked a lot for her – and it helped her find her voice, even as she navigated through trauma, shame, and the pitfalls of Hollywood. In this episode, Constance shares: Why she stopped thinking about results and focused on her craft instead  The reality behind her tweets about Fresh off the Boat’s renewal Why she reluctantly came back to social media after three years offline What she wants people to take away from her book, “Making a Scene” Trigger warning: this episode talks about sexual assault.

Eve Rodsky was on a business trip when her husband texted saying someone left a beer bottle and jacket on their front lawn. She figured he’d take care of it. When she returned a day later, they were still there. That was when Eve realized unless she figured out why women take on so much invisible labor at home, she’d spend the rest of her life picking up beer bottles and jackets. Today, Eve shares how treating home like your most important organization can change your life.  In this episode, Eve shares: How growing up with a single mother shaped the way she thought about work A skimm of her Fair Play approach to home labor – and why it works  The difference in how society value men’s time vs. women’s time  Why having an identity outside of being a parent, a professional, a partner is essential to a happy life Ways to start finding your “unicorn space” 

As CEO, Indra Nooyi led PepsiCo through its most important strategic pivots and navigated the company through two financial crises. But during her time there, her male colleagues continued to disrespect her. To the point where she threatened to walk out. Today, Indra tells us how she demanded respect in the workplace and how it impacted her career.  In this episode, Indra shares: How her teachers described her – and why she worked against it her whole life The way she drew hard lines to be respected in the workplace How her cultural upbringing influenced why she never asked for a raise Why not everyone should aspire to be the CEO – and why it’s okay What you'll learn from her class on MasterClass Leading with Purpose

Before she went to college, Kristen Bell’s mom sat her down for a candid convo. It wasn’t about navigating the quad or the importance of office hours. It was about the mental health struggles that ran in her family. Despite having those struggles too, Kristen never talked about it publicly. Until she decided: she owed it to her fans – and her family. Today, we talk about mental health and how being open with your team makes work better for everyone.   In this episode, Kristen shares: How one story about her family’s mental health struggles was a gift Why she felt guilty about not sharing her mental health struggles earlier Her definition of confidence – and how it has nothing to do with being perfect Why having A+ creative partners enabled her to pursue jobs beyond acting A Skimm of her children’s book, The World Needs More Purple Schools   Want in on our upcoming Skimm Reads event, Book’d with Kelly Ripa? Get your ticket here. 

Born to immigrant parents on Long Island, Jen Wong says she was an introverted latch-key kid. Fast forward to today, and Jen leads people and business growth as Reddit COO. Talk about a turn of events. And as an LGBTQ+ woman, mother, Asian American and more, Jen says: holding these identities has given her the empathy she needed to lead effectively.  In this episode, Jen shares: Her fave sub-reddit (gardeners, this one’s for you) Her approach to prepping for events + talks as an introvert How working as a consultant gave her the business ed. she uses everyday Why her gut is her BFF when making decisions How being curious about people has led her to rewarding relationships 

Back when low-rise jeans and shoulder bags reigned supreme, Rachel Bilson played the iconic Summer Roberts on The OC. She later starred in TV shows and movies like Hart of Dixie and Jumper. And then…the pandemic happened. And she learned the importance of taking a pause to focus on what matters most. This week, we’re talking about reassessing your career and taking a pause when you need to.  In this episode, Rachel shares: The 2000s trend she wants to see come back (hello, platform flip flops) How the pandemic pushed her to take a pause on acting + focus on podcasting Her new criteria for projects + what kinds of work she says “no thank you” to How her friendships + support system has changed since the start of her career The episode she’s most excited to share on her new podcast PS: You can check out Rachel’s podcasts: Broad Ideas and Welcome to the OC, Bitches!

Kerry Washington blessed our TV screens on movies + shows like Django Unchained, Little Fires Everywhere, and Scandal. But before she popped off as Olivia Pope, Kerry says she was choosy about roles offered to her. Even if saying “no” meant having less financial freedom. In this episode, Kerry shares: How J-Lo subbed for her dance teacher in the Bronx (shout out @ Jenny from the block) Why she’ll never compromise on roles that perpetuate stereotypes about Black women + women of color  How side hustles gave her creative freedom – and the ability to say no to roles Her process of becoming her characters and why she nerds out about it  A quick Skimm of Prophecy, her upcoming narrative fiction drama podcast PS: 9 to 5ish is going on vacation for the next few weeks. We’ll be back in your feed with new episodes with some amazing women in September. Until then, keep up with Carly and Danielle @carlyanddanielle on Instagram.  

As a kid growing up in Islamabad, Shiza Shahid volunteered in grassroots initiatives to help Pakistani women get an education. And that early interest in service pushed her to always advocate for important issues through her career. From the founding Malala Fund to her current biz, Our Place, Shiza says: a lot of good can be achieved through a combo of non-profit advocacy work and for-profit businesses.  In this episode, Shiza shares: Why she took on a variety of jobs and how that choice shaped her life How you can always find ways to create positive change – no matter how old you are Why ditching the idea of “perfection” is key to creating quality products The importance of understanding a brand’s history as a way to make better choices as a consumer PS: use THESKIMM15 to score 15% off Our Place kitchenware.

Hoda Kotb is a pro at a lot of things. And speaking with other incredible women is at the top of that list. In this special episode, Hoda flips the script and interviews our co-founders and co-CEOs, Danielle Weisberg & Carly Zakin, about the past ten years of theSkimm. This week, they discuss how they — as leaders — have evolved in the last decade, why being told no was important to their growth, and how theSkimm will continue to meet women where they are in the years to come.   PS: Keep up with Carly and Danielle between episodes. Follow @carlyanddanielle on Instagram.  

Lindsay Kaplan and Carolyn Childers were killing it as startup VPs. But as they put it: it gets lonely at the top. Especially for women. Enter: their company, Chief, a women’s exec network that takes networking beyond sticky name tags and awkward icebreakers. This week, we sat down with the Chief co-founders who tell us that everyone – even those with unconventional skill sets – has a place in a business.  In this episode, Lindsay and Carolyn share: The moment Lindsay realized a network like Chief needed to exist  Carolyn’s unconventional rise to becoming an entrepreneur The conflict that taught them the importance of always assuming best intent How Chief thrived during the pandemic by democratizing access for members Advice on how to take networking to the next level and develop meaningful work relationships   PS: Keep up with Carly and Danielle between episodes. Follow @carlyanddanielle on Instagram.

This week, we’re throwing it back to one of our favorite episodes from last year. Brooke Shields has been a household name ever since she did her first commercial, at just 11 months old. As a teenage model and actress being managed by her mother, Brooke found her own image sexualized — but refused to play along with the media’s expectations. Since then, she’s acted on Broadway, starred in sitcoms and TV dramas, raised two daughters and written two memoirs. We spoke to Brooke about how to survive and stay sane amid intense public scrutiny. In this episode, Brooke talks about: Working with her mother — and choosing to fire her The small things she does to help her compartmentalize  Staying true to herself under pressure Not taking criticism personally

From freelancing as a college student to logging tape, Dana Bash worked her way up the ladder at CNN. Now, she comes to us live on TV as CNN’s chief political correspondent, covering elections and the biggest political news. Dana says she wouldn’t have gotten there without luck– and some good old fashioned patience. This week, she spills the secrets of her career marathon, and how to pace yourself. In this episode, Dana shares: The show she’d most like to make a cameo on (RHONJ lovers, rejoice) How she went from freelancing to getting the FT gig at CNN The career-defining move she made – and why it looked like a step backwards Advice on how to talk to your boss about transitioning to a different role  Why being in the same workplace as her ex-husband actually isn’t so bad 

Maria Shriver never felt the pressure to go into politics like the rest of her family. Instead, her parents asked her: what moves you? She took that question and ran with it. Fascinated by storytelling, Maria led a decades-long career in journalism. But then she became first lady of California. And NBC asked her to leave. Looking back, Maria says: it was a blessing in disguise. In this episode, Maria shares:  Why she started at smaller stations before hitting the big networks How getting fired opened space for new opportunities for her  Why her Alzheimer’s work specifically centers the impacts on women  A quick skimm of her brain-healthy food company, Mosh

Before Audie Cornish made the jump to CNN, she was a longtime co-host of NPR’s All Things Considered. And while she made interviewing politicians and celebs look like NBD, she says she had to deal with a “professional identity crisis” after becoming a new mom. This week, we sat down with Audie to talk about how her professional life changed after she had kids, and how motherhood impacted her mindset at work.  In this episode, Audie shares: How she figured out her own communication style Why having kids allowed her to reframe her ideal career success  How recognizing her own accomplishments reframed her ideal career success  Why fostering work + personal relationships is the key to success in all aspects of life Her go-to bagel order 

When you look at Beth Ford’s resume, you probably didn’t know the Land O’ Lakes CEO started out detasseling corn for $2 an hour and cleaning toilets as a janitor. And Beth told us she wouldn’t have ever become CEO without those jobs. Because being successful in business comes from learning about people – and celebrating wins at every level.  In this episode, Beth shares: The string of odd jobs she did to get by as one of eight children in Iowa How taking the job in the field helped her learn about business and people Why she decided to grow her career laterally instead of vertically in her early career The importance of asking for feedback regularly, and why it’s a gift Why humility is key to being a good leader

After a 30-year-career in law enforcement, Victoria Eady Butler did what most people do. She retired. But just days into relaxing and investing in new hobbies, she kicked retirement to the curb. And instead, opted for the chance to learn about what she says is in her blood: whiskey blending, at Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey.  In this episode, Victoria shares: Her favorite cocktail (hint: it includes Uncle Nearest whiskey) How she started her career over after 30 years How she connects to her great-great grandfather through her own whiskey blending What it’s like being part of an all woman executive team in the spirits industry Why her awards and accolades matter, but why being open to learning matters more

As a kid, Eva Longoria dreamed of being a professional volunteer one day. Her mother’s response? That’s not a job, sweetie. Instead, she was a Texas pageant queen, became a headhunter, and moved to LA. And despite knowing no one in Hollywood when she first arrived, Eva became a household name for her role in “Desperate Housewives.” Now, Eva’s defied expectations again and expanded her resume to include: humanitarian and parent.  In this episode, Eva shares: How her special needs sister taught her the importance of being in service to others What it was like to become a household name in her 30s How her Mexican-American roots shaped her activism Why she feels lucky to have had her son later in life A Skimm of her new podcast, “Connections with Eva Longoria”

When Fidji Simo was an exec at Facebook, she discovered she had a chronic health condition. That meant: taking meetings from her bed, fainting at work, and awkward conversations with her bosses. That experience taught Fidji how to be a leader while taking care of herself and putting her health first. A lesson she now brings to her team at Instacart, where she’s the CEO.  In this episode, Fidji shares:  The must-have in her weekly Instacart order (hint: it’s a sweet treat) Why being a woman in a male-dominated industry is actually an advantage How she integrates work and life instead of separating them  Why sponsorship means more than mentorship in work relationships How opening up about her chronic condition made her leadership stronger

Cindy Eckert co-founded the company Sprout Pharmaceuticals, which created the first FDA approved drug for low sexual desire in women (read: female viagra). In a made-for-TV twist, she sold the company for $1 billion… but then, had to take the company back. Intrigued yet? Same. Now, Cindy’s the founder of the investment and management firm, The Pinkubator, with the goal of making other women “really f***ing rich.” Talk about a mission we can get behind.  In this episode, Cindy shares:  How to rethink the classic career ladder Who inspired her to keep fighting for women’s health, in spite of FDA pushback How she got her company back – for free  Why securing funding is not the golden ticket to entrepreneurial success How one simple interview question can tell you a lot about a candidate

Every weekend growing up, Christine watched her mom and grandma go to the Korean bathhouses, rubbing things like tea and spoiled milk on their skin. And she’s been hooked on skincare ever since. Now, she’s the co-founder and co-CEO of the skincare brand, Glow Recipe. But before leading this new venture, she actually worked her way up the corporate ladder at L’Oreal. In this episode, Christine gives her advice on how to make the jump from corporate to startup, and what she learned at her desk job that she still uses today.  In this episode, Christine shares:  How she learned to lean on colleagues and mentors How having a co-founder eases the growing pains of a new business How her corporate experience helped in the startup mindset Why she and her co-founder turned down an offer from Shark Tank investors The important role that emerging technology like TikTok has played in her business

Before Rathi Srinivas became the co-founder and CTO of Droplette, she got her PhD in chemical engineering from MIT. NBD. And now, she’s developed an award-winning skincare device that’s grounded in science and backed by NASA. This week, Rathi joined us to share how she thinks about making stuff that’s never been made before – that can have a real difference for women everywhere. In this episode, Rathi shares:  The differences between traditional fundraising and scientific grants What it’s like to start a business with a friend How becoming a mom changed her career 

It’s no secret that more diversity is needed in the investing world. So as an immigrant woman of color, Gargi Pal Chaudhuri didn’t see a lot of people who looked like her or understood her background when she first stepped onto the trading floor two decades ago. Since then, she’s climbed the ranks, broadened her network, and become the Head of iShares Investment Strategy, Americas at BlackRock. Tune in for her advice on how to find the best mentors possible as you build your career.  In this episode, Gargi shares:  How to start looking for a mentor The secrets to developing a mentor-mentee relationship The one piece of advice she gives her mentees now (hint: invest)  

The day before Melissa Ben-Ishay started her famous cupcake business Baked by Melissa, she actually got fired from her job. But she’s proof that your worst moments can lead to some of your best. This week, we spoke to Melissa about how she found her confidence as she was getting started, and how she learned to embrace obstacles.   In this episode, Melissa shares… Her decision-making tactics  Her advice for people who lose their jobs How she got over her fear of cold-outreach Why the past two years were the hardest in her career The quality she looks for most when hiring 

Robin Roberts has been in the anchor chair at “Good Morning America” for over 15 years. And while she’s covered some of the biggest news events of our time, she’s also gone through her own off-camera battles. This week, Robin told us why she decided to share her most personal struggles with millions of people – and how to make your own vulnerability your superpower at work.  In this episode, Robin shares:  Why she pivoted from sports into news  How she exercises her “optimism muscle” How she reframes obstacles and learns from them Why vulnerability is her strength at work  How she mentors and supports her colleagues   

Scarlett Johansson is one of the highest-paid actors in the world, and has starred in some of the highest-grossing movies of all time. But those career defining moments didn’t come easy. She’s had to reframe rejection, say “yes” without looking back, and fight against toxic behavior in the entertainment industry. This week, we’ll ask Scarlett how she had perspective even in the toughest moments — including not getting the original call to be Black Widow — and why she recently took the leap to start her own skincare business. PS: theSkimm’s listeners can get 15% off the Outset products with the code SKIMM15. Valid from 4/13 until 4/20.  In this episode, Scarlett shares:  How she’s dealt with rejection in her career Why she decided to pivot and start her own business How she’s made a career out of being someone’s “second choice” and how she kept an open mind How she handled being pigeonholed into certain roles 

When Michelle Kelly started at Lilly Pulitzer in 2004, her business card read “Major Stores Development Manager.” Now, it says “CEO.” Kelly has held 8 different titles across at least 4 different departments at the company — from retail, to merchandising, marketing, to e-commerce. So in this episode, we chat with Michelle about the art of the pivot. Started from the bottom, now we here.  In this episode, Michelle shares:  How she got her bosses to let her switch departments How to tell your boss you want to try something new What it was like to take on growth roles and “start over” on new teams What it’s like to manage your friends and peers  How she thinks about balancing trying new things and moving up the ladder

This week, we’re thinking about careers like recipes. And it’s not just because we’re talking to Dawn Davis, the editor-in-chief of “Bon Appétit.” For Dawn, every experience she had – from working in finance to founding her own publishing imprint – was an essential ingredient that prepared her to run the famous food mag. And this week, we’re talking to Dawn about how to experiment with your own career recipe.  In this episode, Dawn shares:  How she made the decision to leave finance  Why she left an imprint she started to work for a legacy brand  How she gives feedback to her authors and writers How she is building a safe and inclusive work culture at “Bon Appétit”

Even though Lorna Kapusta is head of women investors and customer relations at Fidelity, she wasn’t always so confident talking about her own finances. But that started to change about seven years ago when she realized: she needed to be in the driver’s seat when it came to her money. This week, Lorna shares her own journey– and gives advice on how to start taking control, from investing to having tough money conversations.  In this episode, Lorna shares:  How to start having conversations about money with your partner or friends How to begin your journey towards financial literacy Investing 101  What makes women strong investors  Her #1 money tip 

When Radhika Jones took over Vanity Fair as editor-in-chief, she succeeded a man who had been in the job for 25 years. And taking over a legacy like that isn’t easy — whether you’re EIC or managing a new team at work. You have to explain your vision, win over people who might not agree, learn people’s work styles...all on top of doing your actual job. This week, we asked Radhika how she navigated those early days at VF, and what she wants her legacy to be at the publication.  In this episode, Radhika shares:  How she learned how to run a business meeting — by working with college kids in the classroom  How she explained her vision to VF staffers When she knew her leadership style was working How to navigate working on a new team 

Working for Fawn Weaver isn’t your typical 9 to 5. The founder and CEO of Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey operates her business like a family. Think: not just one-on-ones or status meetings, but 24/7 support for employees. So how did she build a company like that? She sought out people who had similar values and fit with her leadership style. And she spent a lot of time on the hiring process.  In this episode, Fawn shares.  How she found her leadership style – and learned to stop people-pleasing Her go-to interview question to determine if someone’s a fit for Uncle Nearest  Why she won’t hire anyone based off a Zoom interview anymore  How she tells an employee they aren’t the best fit for her team  Why a “family” environment doesn’t work for all employees

When Laurie Segall first started at CNN as a journalist, she was basically working in the equivalent of “Scriberia” from “Inventing Anna.” But instead of getting discouraged, Laurie used that opportunity to build out CNN’s tech coverage, and created a new role at the company in the process. And she ultimately became CNN’s senior technology correspondent. This week, Laurie shares how she used her different jobs - good and bad - as stepping stones to work towards the career she wanted. Now, Laurie’s her own boss, as the founder and CEO of Dot Dot Dot, a media venture exploring technology through the human lens. In this episode, Laurie shares:  How she turned disappointment into motivation  How she networked her way into major interviews with tech CEOs  Why every job (even the bad ones) can get you closer to your career goals Why she decided to leave CNN and start her own company

Ever worn a really uncomfortable bra and thought “Who even invented this?” Michelle Cordeiro Grant was one of those people. She worked for major lingerie and underwear brands before starting her own, Lively, after she saw how other brands didn’t put their customer - or comfort - first. And it turns out: flipping the script worked. Lively sold out of inventory in its first two weeks. And in 2019, Lively was acquired for a casual $105 million dollars. This week, we talked to Michelle about how to listen to your customers.  In this episode, Michelle shares:  Her philosophy on marketing How to connect with customers How to make yourself be more extroverted in business How to learn on the fly 

Anne Wojcicki always followed her interests. From sneaking into figure skating rinks as a kid, to taking her interest in genetics to the next level and co-founding the genetics company 23andMe, Anne told us how she’s built her career off curiosity. And as 23andMe has faced challenges from regulators and privacy advocates over the years, Anne had to dig into her passion even more to boost morale.  In this episode, Anne shares:  The 23andMe origin story What boosted morale on her team Why she actively seeks out feedback from naysayers  How she’s played the long game with building her company How the tech world has changed for women

Victoria Beckham has switched industries three times so far during her career: trading in the Spice Girls for a solo career, then launching her own fashion label. Now, she’s in the midst of her third big pivot: a foray into beauty, via a sustainable luxury brand. And she brought in Sarah Creal, a lifelong product developer who’s worked with everyone from Bobbi Brown to Estée Lauder. In this episode, Victoria and Sarah talk about: Building credibility by putting product first Refining long-term business plans Choosing a co-founder Standing out in a crowded field PS: 9 to 5ish listeners can get 10% off Victoria Beckham Beauty products by using code Skimm10 at checkout. Some restrictions apply.

Nancy started her career at Goldman Sachs — but she always knew she wanted to be an entrepreneur. She had grown up helping her grandmother and her mother make natural home-remedies for hair and skin, and realized there was a gaping hole in the beauty market. But she didn’t quit her day job right away: instead, she stayed on the trading room floor for another four years and worked evenings and weekends to run her own business, Briogeo, on the side. Talk about time management skills.  In this episode, Nancy talks about: What she learned on Wall Street during the 2008 financial crash Figuring out when to quit your day job Putting product development before branding Making choices during a company’s early stages When to think about outside funding for a business

This week, we’re throwing it back to one of our favorite episodes from last year. What does it actually mean to know your worth at work? This week, we asked the queen of confidence (and of morning TV), Gayle King, how she found hers. She told us her self worth came from years of salary negotiations, building strong support systems, navigating setbacks, and dealing with tough bosses.  In this episode, Gayle shares:  Her mindset going into negotiations How she gained a sense of self worth as a junior reporter Why tough moments and failure can add to self worth  How she leans on her support system  Why celebrating other people’s success adds to your self worth (hi, Oprah)  How she dealt with being underestimated 

Lindsey Vonn isn’t just physically tough – she’s also known as one of the most mentally strong athletes. She started competing in international skiing competitions when she was just nine years old, and went on to become the most decorated female skier in history, including winning three Olympic Winter Games medals. And along the way, Lindsey dealt with a number of terrifying injuries, which challenged her mental and physical strength. After retiring from professional skiing, Lindsey’s switched arenas, starting her own production company, writing a memoir and leading her own foundation. In this episode, Lindsey talks about: How competition has served her - and hurt her  Career setbacks and how injuries actually helped her Learning to trust people she was competing with Building a risk-tolerant mindset

Melissa Wood-Tepperberg went from working in nightclubs and modeling to becoming one of the first people to start streaming workouts online. That turned into her own health and fitness app, which now has thousands of paying subscribers. Today, Melissa has almost one million Instagram followers and her app, Melissa Wood Health, is a case study at Harvard Business School — despite the fact Melissa never went to college herself. In this episode, Melissa talks about: How meditation changed her life Experimenting as a way to figure out your career path Learning to listen to your gut How she stopped comparing herself to other people

Fran Lebowitz found fame as a writer in the 1970’s, when she started out writing movie reviews and magazine columns. She went on to publish two essay collections containing her observations of New York City and the people around her — cementing her as a definitive voice of a generation.  In this episode, Fran talks about: Finding her writing process Networking without the internet Improvising when she got writer’s block Refusing to follow the crowd

Dana Canedy is a Pulitzer-winning reporter who’s set goals for herself since her first internship. But halfway through her career as a reporter Dana lost her fiancé, which shaped the rest of her life and her career. And Dana figured out how to keep going — becoming the first person of color, the youngest, and first female administrator of the Pulitzer Prize and the first Black person to head up a major US publishing imprint.  In this episode, Dana talks about: How she set goals for herself early on Switching roles throughout her career How her personal life shaped her professional trajectory How to recognize all your successes — even the small ones

Sheila was at Harvard Business School, rifling through the Yellow Pages to find care for her infant son and her elderly father when she realized finding care should be easier. But unlike some Silicon Valley founders, Sheila wasn’t in a rush: instead, she prioritized building her leadership and management skills before she launched Care.com.  In this episode, Sheila talks about: Figuring out what skills she needed to learn before launching a company What qualities she looks for in potential managers Why people teams are essential to startup success Finding your style as a manager and owning your mistakes

Carly worked her way up from management trainee at AT&T, going from fighting for respect from her male colleagues to taking the top job at Hewlett-Packard and becoming the first female CEO of a Fortune 50 company. She oversaw a contentious merger, job and pay cuts. And after she was fired, Carly served as an advisor to John McCain and Mitt Romney’s presidential campaigns — in between beating breast cancer and running for President herself. She’s no stranger to criticism and tough feedback, and this week, she shared how learning to take feedback has helped her on her journey.  In this episode, Carly talks about: Working your way up Making unpopular decisions as a leader Distinguishing feedback from criticism Unlearning perfectionism How to respond to tough feedback

Brooke Shields has been a household name ever since she did her first commercial, at just 11 months old. As a teenage model and actress being managed by her mother, Brooke found her own image sexualized — but refused to play along with the media’s expectations. Since then, she’s acted on Broadway, starred in sitcoms and TV dramas, raised two daughters and written two memoirs. We spoke to Brooke about how to survive and stay sane amid intense public scrutiny. In this episode, Brooke talks about: Working with her mother — and choosing to fire her The small things she does to help her compartmentalize  Staying true to herself under pressure Not taking criticism personally

Shawna Thomas has always stood out — from winning a prestigious college scholarship when she was 13 years old, to working her way up the ranks at NBC News from intern to senior producer. Over the course of her career, she’s won multiple Emmys and a Peabody, among other awards. Today, she’s in control of one of the nation’s top morning news shows, CBS Mornings. Listen to this week’s episode, where Shawna talks about how to shine in front of your boss and potential employers. In this episode, Shawna talks about: Making an impression during a job interview Why all work experience is relevant — even if you’ve changed careers How to make your resume stand out  Why going to therapy can make you better at your job How she learned to manage people

When Emily Ratajkowski was asked to appear in a music video in 2013, she didn’t expect it to catapult her to overnight fame. Since then, she’s appeared in movies like ‘Gone Girl,’ walked the runway at New York Fashion week and launched her own swimwear line. And last year, Emily’s essay for ‘The Cut’ about objectification and power imbalances she experienced went viral, landing her a book deal for her new essay collection, ‘My Body.’ This week, she’s joining us to talk about how she learned to advocate for herself.  In this episode, Emily talks about: How her career trajectory shaped her politics Recovering from moments where she felt professionally undermined Deciding to disclose others’ bad behavior — and dealing with the backlash Learning to take her time with decisions How motherhood has changed her relationship with herself and her work

It’s impossible to know how Hillary Clinton’s life would have run without Huma Abedin. From the late '90s through 2016, Huma occupied a central role in running Hillary’s life as an aide and personal advisor. She remained private even when both her personal and professional lives were embroiled in simultaneous crises, from her previous husband’s infidelity to Hillary’s emails. Now, she’s setting out to define herself in her own words. In this episode, Huma talks about: Staying connected to her roots Working her way up in the White House Keeping her professional and personal lives private Seeking help for her mental health  Creating a reputation of her own

When she was in college, Alexa von Tobel realized she knew nothing about personal finance. And she couldn’t find any good tools out there to learn. So she set out to learn about managing her own money — a journey that led her to dropping out of Harvard Business School after just one semester, writing two books, and starting two multi-million dollar businesses. We spoke to Alexa about the basics of business, money management, and what makes a successful start-up. In this episode, Alexa talks about: The pros and cons of business school How to get investors to buy into a business plan How venture capital funding works Taking care of your mental health as an entrepreneur Running a company as a parent

This episode mentions sexual assault, which could be triggering to some listeners.  Tarana Burke coined the phrase “me too” to help young Black girls in Selma, Alabama talk about sexual assault over a decade ago. But when #MeToo went viral overnight in 2017, Tarana had to figure out how to share her life’s work and its resources with a broader audience. Today, Tarana’s facing new challenges: how to offer sexual assault survivors the resources they need over the internet, and learning to balance her own needs alongside her work. In this episode, Tarana talks about: How “me too” began How she keeps going when personal and professional overlap How she approaches burnout and recovery Why rest is important for work

Julianna Margulies went from pouring G&Ts and filming commercials in Manhattan to being one of the most-awarded actresses on television. She’s famous for roles on “E.R.,” “The Good Wife,” and “The Morning Show” — and despite always having a backup plan, Julianna’s biggest decisions have been guided by her intuition. We spoke to Julianna about making big life decisions, taking risks and turning down lucrative offers. In this episode, Julianna talks about: Planning for the future  Trusting that the right work will find you Saying no to professional opportunities (hi, E.R.)  Clarifying your career focus How she stopped people pleasing

This week, we’re throwing it back to one of our favorite episodes from last year.  Erica Williams Simon is a writer, host, and the CEO of Sage House media. Her new book reveals how she re-wrote her life story and shares how you can do the same. She walked us through how she makes tough decisions, starting with how she quit a perfect-on-paper job and changed her life.   In this episode, Erica shares:  What growing up in a church community taught her  How she made the decision to quit  How to navigate the financial burden of leaving a job  How to craft and tell your career story  How to learn from an unfulfilling job

Rea Ann Silva spent two decades working as a makeup artist for music videos, movies, and television. And on the side, she started developing a tool to make her work easier: the Beautyblender. Little did she know, she would end up transforming the beauty industry. And what helped her along the way - from movie sets to becoming CEO - was her relationships and her network. So this week, we’re getting her advice on how to start - and grow - your own.   In this episode, Rea Ann shares:  How she climbed the career ladder How she tapped into her industry’s networks How to work up the nerve to cold-call What it was like to see Beautyblender in the Smithsonian Museum

Gabrielle Union hit her big break as an actor more than 20 year ago. Today she’s a household name in pop culture, as well as an advocate and author. And along the way, she’s had to learn one of the biggest (and hardest) career lessons: how to stand up for yourself. From navigating toxic workplaces, to challenging inequity and bias in Hollywood, to speaking out about pay parity, Gabrielle’s a hero to many for standing up to broken systems - and for how open and honest she is with her fans and her readers.  In this episode, Gabrielle shares: Realizing when vulnerability can be a superpower Standing up for yourself — and others — at work Navigating your professional reputation Knowing your value in pay negotiations Why you need to talk about money  Using preparation to counter anxiety

Welcome to a special bonus episode of 9 to 5ish with theSkimm. A few weeks ago, theSkimm's co-founders and co-CEOs Carly Zakin and Danielle Weisberg hosted a Back to "Normal" power panel, talking about what a return to “normal” in the workplace looks like amid the COVID-19 pandemic. We were joined by… Tina Tchen, then-president and CEO of Time’s Up Fatima Goss Graves, president and CEO of the National Women’s Law Center Ai-jen Poo, co-founder and executive director of the National Domestic Workers Alliance And, Tami Forman, CEO of Path Forward It’s no secret that women have been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic: One in 10 moms with young kids quit their job — with half of them saying it was because of school or daycare closures. Gender equality in the workplace was set back more than a decade. And women were feeling burned out at faster rates. Now, as women head back into the workforce and office, it’s important to make sure they’re equipped with the information and tools they need to make their work-life balance real. Hit play to hear from the experts.

Morgan DeBaun was one of the only Black women working in Silicon Valley when she quit her job and started Blavity, a news media company focused on serving Black Americans. But as Morgan started to learn, raising money isn’t easy - especially when so little funding goes to women and women of color in the first place. This week, we spoke to Morgan about raising capital, overcoming obstacles, and selling your story to investors. In this episode, Morgan shares:  Bootstrapping your business and delayed gratification Defining your company mission Learning how different types of funding works Staying true to your vision when pitching it Bringing Black creators into the spotlight in the tech space

When Alexandra Fine co-founded Dame, a women-founded sex toy company looking to close the pleasure gap, not everyone was on board with her vision. She got a lot of pushback - from traditional investors to advertisers - as she sought to change how the world looked at sex toys and pleasure. So this week: we spoke to Alexandra about how she navigated those obstacles and came up with creative solutions to get Dame off the ground. In this episode, Alexandra shares:  How they funded the businesses when investors said ‘no’  How she’s built her team  Why Dame has to get creative with how they advertise their products  How she overcame people who doubted her mission  Why Dame is suing the MTA 

We spend a lot of time - if not most of our time - at work. And that means: the relationships we have with our colleagues matter, and can impact how satisfied we are with our jobs. So this week, we talked to world-famous psychotherapist Esther Perel about how to create meaningful relationships with our coworkers. And why our interpersonal skills are just as important as any of the skills we list on our resume.  In this episode, Esther shares:  How to have difficult conversations in the office  How managers can create trust on teams  How to build relationships with colleagues virtually  Why she does “couples therapy” for bosses and direct reports  What a “relationship resume” is  PS: Want to hear more from Esther? Check out her podcasts, and her new card game, here.

Mentors at work. We know they’re good to have, but there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to finding one. They can be someone on your team, someone in your company, or someone in a totally different line of work. But no matter who it is, there are some best practices when it comes to starting - and maintaining - those relationships. This week, we talked to Rashida Jones, president of MSNBC, to learn how she found mentors - and how she sustained those relationships throughout her career.  In this episode, Rashida shares:  What she goes to her mentors for How to start looking for a mentor  How to push past the awkwardness of those first few convos   Why mentees have to drive the relationship  Why it’s good to have more than one mentor  How to be direct with mentors about what you want to get out of the relationship  How to transition from mentee to mentor

We heard from a lot of you that you have questions about whether to pursue your MBA or another business degree. So we asked an expert. Erika James is the dean of the Wharton School at UPenn, the oldest business school in the country. So she’s got tips on how to know if you’re ready to get that degree - and how to know if an MBA isn’t the right path for you. Plus: she tells us the do’s and dont’s of the application process.  In this episode, Dean James shares:  How to evaluate if you’re ready for an MBA How to know if an MBA isn’t the degree for you  How to make your application stand out (and what not to include)  Whether you should get an MBA if you think you don't have “quantitative skills”  What you learn from an MBA program  Her perspective on how business leadership has changed 

Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur or working at a big company, everyone has a personal brand at work. And everything from your LinkedIn profile to your resume to your interview style adds to that brand. So this week, we sat down with the master of creating a personal brand, Paris Hilton, to talk about how she built hers. She’s not only the OG social media influencer, but she also created a persona that took the world by storm. And spoiler: investing in her brand paid off. Now, she’s got dozens of businesses, not to mention a new hit TV show on Netflix, "Cooking with Paris." In this episode, Paris shares:  Why (and how) she built the persona of Paris Hilton  What she’s like as a businesswoman  Her advice for leveraging social media to reach your career goals Who she goes to for advice when she’s looking to take the next step  How she evaluates who to work with  How to prioritize between personal and professional life

What does it actually mean to know your worth at work? This week, we asked the queen of confidence (and of morning TV), Gayle King, how she found hers. She told us her self worth came from years of salary negotiations, building strong support systems, navigating setbacks, and dealing with tough bosses.  In this episode, Gayle shares:  Her mindset going into negotiations How she gained a sense of self worth as a junior reporter Why tough moments and failure can add to self worth  How she leans on her support system  Why celebrating other people’s success adds to your self worth (hi, Oprah)  How she dealt with being underestimated 

The Tokyo 2020 Olympics are underway. And as we all started cheering for the athletes on our TV screens, it got us thinking about winning - and losing - at work. Maybe you got the promotion. Or maybe your long-time project wasn’t a success. How should we navigate the ups and downs? To find out, we called up an expert: 2008 Olympic gold medalist Nastia Liukin. She’s had some high highs (hello, gold medal)...and also some low lows (injuries, falls, and haters).  In this episode, Nastia shares:  How to block out external noise  How to keep going when you want to quit  How to move on from failure  How she dealt with a 1:1 rivalry  How to hype yourself up 

Whitney Wolfe Herd is one of the biggest women in business. She founded Bumble in 2014, and became the youngest ever female CEO to take a company public when it IPO'd this year. So we decided to ask the best of the best for her tips on how to think about getting started.  In this episode, Whitney shares:  Why founders need to communicate (read: over-communicate) their vision for the company  How she used “no’s” she got early on as motivation  Her advice on how to hire (and potentially fire) friends and family  How to market your company when you have no money How to think about your personal finances when you’re starting your business

Meet our revamped career podcast, 9 to 5ish with theSkimm. We're bringing you the work advice you need, from women who’ve been there. Every week, join the co-founders and co-CEOs of theSkimm, Carly Zakin and Danielle Weisberg, as they help you get what you want out of your career by talking to the smartest leaders they know. New episodes drop every Wednesdays, starting July 21st. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss a single ep.

Jenna Lyons was the Executive Creative Director and President of J.Crew Group. And she also became the face of the brand and a brand herself. But then...she left J.Crew after 26 years at the company. This week, Jenna sat down with us to talk about how to build an authentic personal brand and leadership style. And how to maintain that sense of identity (and hold onto your confidence) even when you leave your job.  In this episode, Jenna shares how she stopped micromanaging, why she was surprised no one called her after she left J.Crew, and how to build a personal brand.

Ursula Burns is one of the most notable business leaders in America. She ran Xerox from 2009 to 2016, and when she took the top job, she also became the first Black woman to run a Fortune 500 company. This week, Ursula sat down with us to share why leaders in 2021 can’t just be focused on profits or increasing a stock price - they have to be focused on people.  In this episode, Ursula shares why being an executive assistant changed her life, how she created accountability on her leadership team, and why companies have to prioritize the wellbeing of their employees.

Last year, when the world was locked down, Amanda Kloots gave us a window into the toll that COVID-19 has taken on individual families. The former Broadway dancer and Radio City Rockette lost her husband, Nick Cordero, last summer due to complications from COVID. She put her journey up on social media - and the world supported her and grieved with her. This week, Amanda sat down with us to talk about navigating grief and the impact it has on work and career.  In this episode, Amanda shares how she pivoted from the Broadway stage into teaching fitness classes, why she chose to grieve so publicly, and how she practices positivity (hint: try thinking of one positive thing each day).

This week, we're throwing it back to one of our favorite episodes from last year, with Olympian and soccer star Abby Wambach. Abby knows a thing or two about winning a gold medal - she actually won two while she played for the US Women’s National Team. And the soccer star hasn’t slowed down in retirement. She’s now a bestselling author and an equal pay activist.  In this episode, Abby shares what it was like to play with her idols, including Mia Hamm, how she’s developed her leadership style on and off the field, and why one night at the ESPY awards changed the direction of her retirement. 

Whembley Sewell is the youngest editor at a Condé Nast publication. And she’s the EIC of its newest publication, them. And when you’re the youngest at the newest, cue: pressure. But Whembley told us she doesn’t let the challenges of the job get to her because she stays focused on them’s mission of celebrating the stories and voices of the LGBTQ+ community.   In this episode, Whembley shares how to create meaningful relationships with an audience, her advice for fostering an inclusive work culture, and how she balances being collaborative with giving her team freedom.

Once Ayesha Curry’s family started expanding, so did her culinary career. Ayesha built her brand one blog post and YouTube video at a time. And now: she’s one of the most recognized personalities in the food world (think: multiple cookbooks, a magazine, and a foundation to end childhood hunger). This week, Ayesha sat down with us to tell us how she found her career calling after she became a parent.  In this episode, Ayesha shares how she taught herself about business, why she emphasizes collaboration at work, and how she and her husband push each other to stay motivated.

Whether it’s getting that promotion or starting your own business, it can be intimidating to map out your career goals. But this week, Stacey Abrams told us to try one simple approach: write it down. The voting rights activist, politician, and author has a lot on her plate at any given time, from getting out the vote to writing romance novels. And she keeps her eye on the prize...literally keeping a spreadsheet. Tune in to hear her tips on how to stay focused on your goals. And why being honest with yourself - and even your boss - about your ambitions is a good place to start.  In this episode, Abrams shares how she prioritizes, how she decides to not pursue something, and what she wants to do next.  PS: Check out the latest book from Stacey Abrams here. 

Kendra Scott built her jewelry brand (also called Kendra Scott) with a $500 dollar investment out of a spare bedroom in her house. And now, it’s a billion dollar business. That didn’t just happen overnight. In this special live (on Zoom) episode, Kendra told us how she’s been able to turn her biggest failures into her greatest successes. And how she turns a 'no' into a 'yes.' In this episode, Kendra shares where her resilience comes from, how her relationship with money has changed, and her advice for how to pitch yourself.

Welcome to our special Mother’s Day episode. Skimm’d from the Couch is a career podcast...and we can’t talk about work and career without talking about how that changes when you become a parent. This past year has also created new challenges for working moms, while exacerbating existing ones. Which, PS: often go unrecognized.  So we wanted to know: what can we do about it? To get some answers, we invited Reshma Saujani back on the show. She’s the founder of Girls Who Code, the leader of the Marshall Plan for moms, and a mom herself. We talk to her about parenthood, entrepreneurship, and how to fix a system that undervalues the invisible work of women. In this episode, Reshma shares how the past year has been for her, what policy changes could benefit working parents, and her advice for taking action in your own workplace.

Cindy McCain’s life has been in the American political spotlight for four decades. Her late husband, Senator John McCain, was elected for six terms in the Senate. And he ran for president twice. Cindy was by his side for all of it. But before the White House races and the political spotlight, Cindy was a 20-something from Arizona who had to find her strength as a newbie in DC. And in 2018, she had to tap into her strength again in the face of personal tragedy.  In this episode, Cindy shares her journey with confidence, how she’s handled criticism, and also...her tips for long-distance relationships.

At the age of 31, Aja Brown made history when she became the youngest mayor ever elected in the city of Compton. But when she was first running, people said, “Are you even old enough to be mayor?” Well, it turns out age really is just a number. Mayor Brown was one of the most qualified people to ever run and win that office. And now she’s basically the CEO...of a city. This week, we asked Mayor Brown for her best management tips (think: don’t micromanage) that she’s learned over her two terms in office.  In this episode, Mayor Brown shares how she overcame being underestimated, why she’s really strict about setting boundaries, and how to know it's time to move on to your next gig.

Bela Bajaria is the woman who makes the decisions about what’s going to be your next binge-watch. She’s the head of global TV for Netflix, and has helped bring some of our favorite shows, like “The Queen’s Gambit” and “Bridgerton” from the page to the screen. So how’d she actually get her dream job? Perseverance. Because she started as an assistant…and now she’s here. And btw, she also lost a job along the way. This week, she sat down to tell us how you can still get the Hollywood ending for your own career.  In this episode, Bela shares how she convinced her first boss to take a chance on her, what you should do if you get let go from your job, and she tapped her network to land at Netflix.

Diane von Furstenberg (aka DVF) knows the secret to a long and successful career. Hint: it’s reinvention. She’s been in the fashion business since the 1970s. But she’s changed her direction, and her brand, more than a few times. This week, DVF joined us to tell us how to embrace change (even when it’s hard) so you can be the designer...of your own life.  In this episode, DVF shares how she deals with fear, why you should own your vulnerability at work, and how she’s embracing change during the pandemic. And Carly reflects on the time she received an unexpected phone call from Diane as a teenager.

Welcome to our Women’s History Month series on Skimm’d from the Couch - where we’re bringing you the women who made history this past year.  Meet: Dr. Laura Forese. Dr. Forese is the COO of New York Presbyterian, one of the largest not-for-profit hospital networks in the country. And one that’s been instrumental in caring for COVID-19 patients. Also under her leadership, the hospital rolled out a comprehensive paid parental leave plan that includes extended leave for up to six months and continued benefits coverage. Oh, and we forgot to mention that she’s an orthopedic surgeon.  In this episode, Dr. Forese shares how she asked for maternity leave during her residency, why she transitioned into management, and how she communicated with her team during the pandemic. 

Welcome to our Women’s History Month series on Skimm’d from the Couch - where we’re bringing you the women who made history this past year.  Meet: Dara Treseder. She’s the head of global marketing for Peloton — a brand that’s made at-home fitness viral during the pandemic. Case in point: Its membership has more than doubled in the last year. But this isn’t Dara’s first ride. She’s also got GE, Apple, and Goldman Sachs on her resume. So basically she’s at the top of the leaderboard.  In this episode, Dara shares how she receives critical feedback, why she sets OKRs for her family, and her advice for starting a new job remotely. 

Welcome to our Women’s History Month series on Skimm’d from the Couch - where we’re bringing you the women who made history this past year.  Meet: Dr. Kathrin Jansen. Dr. Jansen is the head of vaccine research at Pfizer. So she literally helped develop the COVID-19 vaccine that’s being distributed in the US and around the world. But why stop there? It turns out, she’s developed other breakthrough vaccines throughout her career. Like the one that fights HPV. In this episode, Dr. Jansen shares how she deals with resistance and skepticism (15:28), how she balances listening to her intuition and data (13:36), and the moment when she found out just how effective the Pfizer vaccine was (26:38).

Welcome to our Women’s History Month series on Skimm’d from the Couch - where we’re bringing you the women who made history this past year.  Meet: Alicia Garza. She’s the Principal at Black Futures Lab and co-founder of the Black Lives Matter Global Network — the movement that sparked a global rallying cry last summer. Black Lives Matter has since been nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize, as the world recognizes the groundbreaking work Alicia and her co-founders started.  In this episode, Alicia shares the secret to building relationships (14:10), her tips for overcoming rejection (16:20), and what she does to stay invigorated in her work (30:10). 

Welcome to our Women’s History Month series on Skimm’d from the Couch - where we’re bringing you the women who made history this past year.  Meet: Kristen Welker. She’s the Chief White House Correspondent for NBC News, and the co-anchor of Weekend TODAY. You probably recognize her from moderating that final presidential debate of 2020...which she calls the biggest moment in her professional career. This week, Kristen joined us to talk about how she prepared for that moment - and how she kept cool under pressure.  In this episode, Kristen shares what to say to your boss when you want more responsibility at work, what it’s actually like to be a White House reporter, and why meditation helps her with public speaking.

Jessica Lessin has broken some of the biggest stories on the tech companies we all know (think: Facebook, Google, and Apple). Now, after years of covering founders and entrepreneurs, she’s become one herself. She started The Information - a subscription-based digital media company covering technology and business. This week, she told us how her perspective has changed since going from employee to founder. And what she’s still trying to learn on the job.  In this episode, Jessica shares how to transition an internship into a full time job (4:50), why it's hard for her to show her personality during WFH (9:51), and what she thinks the future of social media companies will look like (22:00).

Emma Grede is one of the only guests we’ve had on this show who told us she loves negotiating. Early on, she realized that it was her strong suit. And she’s honed that skill throughout her career...especially while she built her own fashion brand alongside a Kardashian (hi, Khloe). Tune in to hear Emma give us a negotiating lesson...and her advice for how to enjoy the process more.  In this episode, Emma shares her tips for negotiation 101 (9:30), how to lean into your strengths when networking (15:00), and what you’d be surprised to know about Khloe (34:40).  PS: We're calling all Skimm'd from the Couch listeners. Help us help you by filling out this five minute listener survey. Find it at theskimm.com/podsurvey.

Priyanka Chopra Jonas is one of the most recognizable people in the world. She started her career as the winner of the Miss World pageant, and later took the global entertainment industry by storm. Along the way, she’s had to develop her confidence, resilience, and self worth. This week, Priyanka sat down with us to share her career journey - and how her relationship with herself has evolved.  In this episode, Priyanka shares how her relationship with confidence has changed (8:14), her advice for dealing with difficult emotions (11:42), and how she’s confronted pay inequity in her industry (22:09). PS: We're calling all Skimm'd from the Couch listeners. Help us help you by filling out this five minute listener survey. Find it at theskimm.com/podsurvey. 

Do you ever feel like you don’t show your real personality at work? Our guests this week, Dr. Jennifer Aaker and Naomi Bagdonas, say unfortunately, that’s pretty common. They teach at Stanford’s business school. And through their research, they found it’s okay - and important - to show your coworkers that you’re human. Which includes having a sense of humor. This week, they sat down with us to share why laughter really can be the best medicine...especially in a Zoom meeting.  In this episode, Dr. Aaker and Naomi share tips on how to read the room - or the Zoom (22:08), why managers can build stronger relationships with their team using humor (18:32), and how humor can help you land a job (29:20).  If you want to learn more, you can buy their new book. It’s called “Humor, Seriously.” Seriously. Buy it here: https://www.humorseriously.com/buy.  PS: We're calling all Skimm'd from the Couch listeners. Help us help you by filling out this five minute listener survey. Find it here: theskimm.com/podsurvey.

Ever feel like you don’t have the "right" resume for the job you’re applying for? Rachel Hollis has. The motivational speaker and author didn’t receive a formal education. And didn’t have a network or connections when she was starting out. But the secret to her success? Pure hustle. This week, Rachel shared why showing an employer how hard you work will get you hired...fancy degree optional.   In this special live (over Zoom) episode, Rachel shares her advice for dealing with burnout (19:23), her favorite question to ask in a job interview (23:20), and what she won’t share on social media (27:23).  Editor's Note: We asked Rachel to address the controversy and criticism surrounding her lack of inclusivity and accusations of plagiarism. Listen at 29:19. PS: We're calling all Skimm'd from the Couch listeners. Help us help you by filling out this five minute listener survey. You can find it at theskimm.com/podsurvey

Maria Sharapova spent years playing tennis five hours a day, seven days a week. The result? Five grand slam wins. And an Olympic medal. Her career is a lesson in grit and determination. And shows that hard work really does pay off. Now, she brings that same determination to her business career. This week, Maria shares the secret to staying motivated in any job…even if you aren’t a world class athlete.  In this episode, Maria shares what she was like as a competitor (9:58), how she turned pressure into motivation (13:50), and why she’s a fan of 'dressing for the job you want' (28:33). Stay tuned at the end for a spotlight on Clare, a company simplifying the paint-shopping process, so you can create a home you love. Want to be featured? Submit yourself or a friend here. 

“The pivot is real.” That phrase has defined Tamron Hall’s professional and personal life: from walking away from her job at NBC News, to hustling to get her own talk show on air, to her IVF journey. This week, Tamron told us how she approaches life’s unexpected moments. And how she turns setbacks into success. In this episode, Tamron shares how she turned an early-career demotion into motivation (8:45), her advice for picking yourself back up after a setback (15:40), and what it’s like to be the boss of her own show (25:40).   Stay tuned at the end for a spotlight on Essence Nutrition, a group of registered dietitians who provide evidence-based nutrition counseling tailored to your individual needs. Want to be featured? Submit yourself or a friend here. 

Naomi Hirabayashi and Marah Lidey are the co-founders and co-CEOs of the self-care start-up, Shine. And while starting a business from scratch and working in self-care may sound like an oxymoron (hello, fundraising and 24/7 hustle), Marah and Naomi told us they’ve been able to find balance and take time for themselves. Their secret? Finding strength in their partnership.  In this episode, Marah and Naomi share what makes their partnership work (17:02), how Shine went from being their side-hustle to main hustle (20:30), and their number one piece of self-care advice (29:48).  Stay tuned at the end for a spotlight on Coco Shop, an independent, Antigua-born brand making high-quality cotton clothing. Want to be featured? Submit yourself or a friend here.  PS: Our How to Skimm Your Life New Year’s Challenge started January 3. It’s 21 days of Skimm’ng your way to a smarter life, from work to your wallet, health, pantry, and more. And it's not too late to get involved. Go to theskimm.com/challenge to check out the challenges you missed. And look out for more details everyday this month in the Daily Skimm. 

Kara Swisher has been called the most feared and well-liked journalist in Silicon Valley. She’s been covering tech industry leaders for decades...and is famous for making them sweat. Just ask Mark Zuckerberg, Jeff Bezos, or Elon Musk. Her secret to building those relationships with entrepreneurs? She’s not afraid to pick up the phone (or slide into a DM) when she has a question.  In this episode, Kara shares why you shouldn’t hide your personality at work (14:18), the reason she considers herself a “bad employee” (21:29), and who she wants to interview next (30:30). 

If you’re looking for a promotion at work... Elaine Welteroth has some tips. She’s got a lot of “firsts” on her resume - from being the first Black beauty director at Condé Nast to being the youngest editor-in-chief in the publisher's history. This week, Elaine told us she hit those milestones by being intentional about everything she did. From the emails she sent to who she sought out as mentors.  And since we recorded this interview, Elaine’s adding something else to her resume. She’s just been named as co-host of "The Talk" on CBS. You can tune in to see her starting January 4.   In this episode, Elaine shares where her entrepreneurial spirit comes from (6:52), how seeking out mentors changed her career trajectory (10:52), and why the “firsts” we celebrate are indicators of how much progress we still need to make (18:30).  Stay tuned at the end for a spotlight on Hungry Bunny Virtual Donut Shop, a virtual donut shop serving the nation with 100% cruelty-free cake donuts. Want to be featured? Submit yourself or a friend here. 

Even Cindy Crawford isn’t confident 100 percent of the time. But you’d never know it. Because she told us that she’s a big fan of faking it till you make it - even on the bad days. She learned that strategy early in her career… and it paid off, as she became one of the most famous supermodels in the world.  In this episode, Cindy shares how she learned to advocate for herself (9:10), what she’s learned from taking risks (18:30), and the advice she gives her daughter Kaia (22:31).  Stay tuned at the end for a spotlight on Rebel Girls, an edutainment company on a mission to inspire and instill confidence in girls and young women. Want to be featured? Submit yourself or a friend here.

Linda Johnson Rice is the CEO of Johnson Publishing Company, the former publisher of Ebony and Jet magazines. This week, Linda told us that she didn’t make it to the top by going it alone. The secret to her success? Listening to her team. Because even CEOs need to ask for advice.  In this episode, Linda shares what she learned about management from her parents, who founded Johnson Publishing (7:12), her advice for dealing with imposter syndrome (12:45), and why she’s a big fan of thinking out loud with her team (26:40).  Stay tuned at the end for a spotlight on Ivy’s Tea Co, a pop culture and Hip-Hop inspired holistic health brand that sells herbal teas and herb-infused sweeteners. Want to be featured? Submit yourself or a friend here. 

Noura Sakkijha is the co-founder and CEO of Mejuri, the buzzy jewelry company that sells affordable, quality pieces directly online. While Noura’s the third generation in her family to go into the industry, she had to navigate brand new challenges on her own. This week, Noura told us about the struggles she faced in the beginning…and how she learned self care was important for her health and the health of the business.  In this episode, Noura shares how she’s learned to separate her personal life and her work life (14:28), why therapy has helped her get through the most challenging parts of being a CEO (10:11), and how she’s built her company culture to prioritize honest feedback (20:58). 

Chelsea Hirschhorn is not a natural risk taker. But she had to change when she started building Frida from the ground up. Frida is now a go-to parenting brand that helps moms and caregivers navigate the realities of parenthood. And this week, Chelsea told us that the risks she took along the way, from leaving her steady job as a lawyer to running unconventional advertising campaigns, were all worth it.  In this episode, Chelsea shares what skills she learned as a lawyer that she applies to her job as CEO (7:04), why Frida is a ‘people-first’ organization (16:09), and how she’s helping her employees at Frida navigate WFH with parenting (18:28).

Ramona Hood has been at the same company (FedEx) for nearly thirty years. She started as a receptionist…and now she’s a CEO. Ramona joined us this week to tell us how she stayed determined - and why creating her own personal “board of directors” (think: a network of mentors, coaches, and sponsors) helped her get to the top job.  In this episode, Ramona shares how she was able to get noticed at the company (6:03), her advice for approaching potential mentors (12:53), and why she believes authenticity is the key to leadership (24:51).

Welcome to our election special of Skimm’d from The Couch, where we’re talking to women from both sides of the aisle about their careers in politics.  Elise Jordan is a veteran of the George W. Bush White House, where she worked as speechwriter and an advisor to Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and as communications director for the National Security Council. So we knew she’d have some tips on how to be a strong communicator at work. Even in high stakes situations.

Welcome to our election special of Skimm’d from The Couch, where we’re talking to women from both sides of the aisle about their careers in politics.  Deesha Dyer was the social secretary to President Obama. Think: her job meant hosting everyone from Beyoncé to the Pope. But Deesha told us her path to the White House was nonlinear, and that she actually got her start at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue as a 31 year old intern. Tune in to hear how she got her foot in the door. And how she learned to tackle her imposter syndrome as she rose through the ranks. 

Ashley Graham is the ultimate multihyphenate. Think: supermodel, entrepreneur, designer, author, advocate, and a new mom. On the road to success, she’s defied every label that people have tried to attach to her, and she’s become a trailblazer in the fashion industry and a voice for inclusivity and empowerment. Oh, and also: she’s a ton of fun.   In this episode, Ashley shares why she never fit into any mold throughout her career (12:50), how she’s built her personal brand (21:09), and why jealousy prevents you from making progress (22:41).

Dr. Yaba Blay is a scholar-activist and cultural consultant whose work centers on the lived experiences of Black women and girls. While she’s got all of the degrees and academic accolades, Dr. Blay sat down with us this week to talk about why she’s taken her work outside of the classroom. And how she’s creating impact through her creative campaigns and community on social media.   In this episode, Dr. Blay shares how she uses her personal connection to her work as fuel (6:26), why she believes it’s important to be able to change your mind (12:14), and when she decided to create her series “Professional Black Girl” (21:00). 

Let’s be real: some of us had big things planned for 2020, before the pandemic came along. But even with everything going on, a lot of Skimm’rs haven’t let that get in their way. And one thing we’ve heard from a lot of you is how routine and self-care have helped them stay grounded when everything else is in flux. This week, we wanted to do a reality check and turn the mic on you. We’ll hear from two Skimm’rs making big moves in spite of circumstance, from moving across the country (4:40) to changing careers (11:30). This is a special episode of Skimm’d From The Couch, sponsored by Estée Lauder.

Bethenny Frankel grew up learning how to hustle. And for her entire career, she’s consistently bet on herself and her ideas. She joined us this week to talk about where that hustle comes from. And how she grew her business from the ground up, using her platform on “The Real Housewives of New York” to chart a new course for entrepreneurs.   In this episode, Bethenny shares how she got her foot in the door in the early days (7:28), why she chose to join “The Real Housewives” (13:50), and how she uses her instincts to make business decisions (22:31). 

While Eva Chen is known for her loyal following on IG (us included), she’s also known for carving out a career path that’s totally her own. She started off in editorial, and now she straddles the tech and high fashion worlds as the director of fashion partnerships at Instagram. And in case she wasn’t busy enough… she’s also a children’s book author. This week she told us that one of the biggest secrets to her success has been: her network. Because she’s stayed in touch with everyone she worked with.  In this episode, Eva shares how she went from being pre-med to being a magazine intern (5:03), her advice for growing your network (11:41), and why failing is okay (25:25).

Misty Copeland is the most famous ballet dancer in the world. Which means that throughout her career, she's had to consistently break down barriers. For background: Misty made history when she became the first Black female principal dancer with the American Ballet Theatre. And now, her reach extends beyond the dance world through her books, philanthropy, and advocacy. Her new children's book “Bunheads” comes out this September.  In this episode, Misty shares how she gained confidence in herself (9:04), her advice for developing relationships with mentors (19:30), and her go-to dance song (34:41). 

Entrepreneurship runs in Monica Royer’s family. Her brother Andy founded Bonobos, the menswear company that changed the retail game. And Monica took notes on his journey before carving out a space of her own. She went on to found Monica + Andy, a company that makes organic baby blankets and clothing. This week, Monica joined us to share how she’s created a mentor network and how she got her business off the ground. In this episode, Monica shares how she pivoted from the pharmaceutical industry to clothing (7:27), when she knew she had to act on her idea (think: in the hospital) (8:24), and how she’s cultivated a network of mentors beyond her own family (17:14).

If you need some tips on advocating for yourself at work… Kim Cattrall’s got you covered. The actress and producer joined us to talk about how she learned to negotiate for herself from a young age. And how she trusts her instincts to choose new roles, including her character on the new show, “Filthy Rich.”  In this episode, Kim shares what drove her to acting (10:02), how she makes tough career decisions (18:33), and when she knew she needed to take a step back from work to focus on her health (20:50). 

Once Lilli Gordon found the beauty industry, she left her old career in finance and economics behind. After decades crunching numbers, Lilli wanted to solve different kinds of problems. Specifically, skin challenges. So she founded her own business, First Aid Beauty. She joined us this week to talk about how she knew it was time to change industries. And how she built her company from the ground up.  In this episode, Lilli shares her personal connection to the beauty industry (13:30), how she hustled to get the business off the ground (17:20), and why the company decided to launch FAB Aid (24:40). 

Phaedra Ellis-Lamkins has always been focused on creating change. She started as a leader in the labor and environmental movements, and she’s now using tech to create impact at scale. Her company, Promise, is a financial services tech platform tackling criminal justice reform. And this week, Phaedra joined us to share how she’s become a strong advocate by tuning out critics. It’s something she learned from the late musician Prince… who was also her old boss. More on that in the episode.  In this episode, Phaedra told us why she’s good at managing crisis (4:16), what she learned from her time as Prince’s manager (13:40), and her approach to fundraising (28:00).

Jeni Britton Bauer eats ice cream every single day. While that's become a quarantine habit for a lot of us, it's actually a key component of Jeni's job. That’s because she’s the founder and chief creative officer of Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, an artisanal ice cream company she started after dropping out of Ohio State. Jeni joined us this week to tell us why dropping out was the best thing she ever did. And how her hustle in the early days helped her create an ice cream empire.  In this episode, Jeni shares why she knew she would be an entrepreneur when she was a kid (4:32), how her experiences starting out taught her how to run a business (11:27), and what it’s like to navigate a team through crisis (24:38).  Stay tuned at the end for a spotlight on Sea Star Beachwear, a company making neoprene shoes and accessories so you can get your feet wet.

Leslie Blodgett is a trailblazer in the beauty industry. She is the former CEO and founder of bareMinerals, a product she grew into an almost two billion dollar business. She sat down with us to talk about how she built a community of loyal customers before the age of social media. And luckily, she's also put those tips into her new book, “Pretty Good Advice.” It gives some pretty great advice. Including: “lead with laughter.”  In this episode, Leslie shares how she hustled to break into the beauty business (5:32), why she built her television persona while being an introvert (12:39), and how she's leaned on a support system of girlfriends (22:10).  Stay tuned at the end for a spotlight on Juju Supply, a company making jewelry, touchstones and totems to give you energy, spirit, resilience, and hope. Want to be featured? Submit yourself or a friend here. 

Claire Babineaux-Fontenot’s life changed in 2015. Because she received a cancer diagnosis from her doctor. Claire, a Walmart exec at the time, underwent treatment and realized she wanted to reconsider her career. She went on to become the CEO of Feeding America, the country’s largest domestic hunger relief organization. This week, Claire sat down with us to talk about how she found meaning in her career. And gave her advice on how you can do the same. In this episode, Claire shares how growing up with 107 (!) siblings impacted her leadership style (2:38), what goes down in that family group text (6:47), and how Feeding America is leading the fight against food insecurity (25:00). Stay tuned at the end for a spotlight on The Yes, a new app that’s reimagining how you shop online. Want to be featured? Submit yourself or a friend here.

Lori Gottlieb knows what it’s like to make a risky career move. Or four. Before becoming a bestselling author and therapist, Lori was a TV exec, then a medical student... and then a journalist. This week, Lori told us how she successfully navigated those transitions in her life. And how she helps her patients navigate those types of changes now.  In this episode, Lori shares how to get comfortable with being uncomfortable (12:40), why we need to humanize each other in the office (23:25), and how to know when you should stop seeing a therapist (19:15).  Stay tuned at the end for a spotlight on PUR Home, a company making green cleaning supplies for your home. Want to be featured? Submit yourself or a friend here. 

In an alternate universe, we’d be cheering in front of our TVs right now. Because the Olympics would be on. So while we wait for Tokyo 2021, we sat down with someone who knows a thing or two about winning a gold medal: Abby Wambach. She won two while she played for the US Women’s National Team. And the soccer star hasn’t slowed down in retirement. She’s now a bestselling author and an equal pay activist.  In this episode, Abby shares what it was like to play with her idols, including Mia Hamm (12:45), how she’s developed her leadership style on and off the field (19:33), and why one night at the ESPY awards changed the direction of her retirement (27:49).  Stay tuned at the end for a spotlight on Babyation, a company that’s unapologetically for moms. Their first product: a breast pump that’s quiet and discreet. Want to be featured? Submit yourself or a friend here.

Betsey Johnson joined us on a special bonus episode of Skimm’d from The Couch. She first took the fashion industry by storm in the 1960s and became famous for her instantly recognizable designs. And for her cartwheels down the runway. Her new memoir, “Betsey”, is on sale now and gives readers an inside look at the woman behind the iconic label.  And PS: she can still do a cartwheel and a split at age 77.

Judy Smith is the real-life Olivia Pope. Her life and career in crisis management inspired the making of ABC’s hit TV show “Scandal.” And Judy’s real-life clients include some of the most famous celebs, politicians, and Fortune 500 companies in the world. This week, she sat down with us to talk about how she tells it like it is. Even to some of the world’s most powerful people.  In this episode, Judy shares how she started organizing press conferences at age 11 (4:00), why she’s always taken risks (24:58), and whether she actually calls her employees gladiators (29:58).  Stay tuned at the end for a spotlight on Effie’s Paper. It’s a company creating lifestyle products for your desk, travel, and even your coffee habit. Want to be featured? Submit yourself or a friend here.

Tina Tchen is challenging companies to build better workplaces. As the CEO of Time’s Up, she’s focused on equality in the office. As a lawyer by trade, Tina has also been a political aide as chief of staff to former First Lady Michelle Obama, and the executive director for the White House Council on Women and Girls. She sat down with us this week to talk about how she creates impact at scale- and what it’s like to manage up when your boss is the First Lady.  In this episode, Tina shares how she grew her confidence in a corporate setting (10:08), what it was like to be a single parent working in the White House (23:42), and her strategies for creating meaningful impact (28:30). Stay tuned at the end for a spotlight on arfa, a new consumer goods company that develops personal care brands based on close relationships with people who use them. And the customers aren’t just consumers - but actual stakeholders in the brands.

Welcome to a special bonus episode where we’re talking about one of our favorite topics: money. Claire Wasserman is the founder of Ladies Get Paid and host of John Hancock’s new podcast, “Friends Who Talk About Money.” This week, she sat down with us to talk about how she negotiates, the money myths she wants to dispel for women, and why you really need to start talking about money with your friends. Even if it’s awkward. 

Teresa Carlson has closed negotiations around the world. As the head of the worldwide public sector for Amazon Web Services, she convinces government and nonprofit clients to commit to a major technology upgrade. This week, she told us how every no can be turned into a yes. And her surprising pro tip for negotiating at work? Write your own job description. We’ll explain.  In this episode, Teresa shares why she actually switched her career from speech pathology to technology (3:50), how she deals with red tape (10:16), and her mindset going into every negotiation (18:07).  Stay tuned at the end for a spotlight on Kanarys, a platform that fuels progress towards more diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace culture. Want to be featured? Submit yourself or a friend here.

Norah O’Donnell is the most-watched woman in news in the country. She is the anchor and managing editor of the 'CBS Evening News', making her the third woman ever to solo anchor a network evening broadcast. As she approaches her 1 year anniversary in the anchor chair, Norah sat down with us to talk us through the secret to her success. Think: a lot of preparation. And six newspapers a day.  In this episode, Norah shares how she made a name for herself in large companies (4:30), her strategies for building a support network (9:42), and her approach to leading CBS into a new era of news (17:33).  Stay tuned at the end for a spotlight on Tea Drops, a company founded by Sashee Chandran. They make innovative, bag-less, dissolvable teas- with 20% less waste than a tea bag. Want to be featured? Submit yourself or a friend here.

We all have questions about money. And Carmen Rita Wong had the answers for us on this week’s episode. She’s an author, personal finance expert, and the former host and co-creator of CNBC's On The Money, and has advised women around the country on how to take control over their finances. And in a total full circle moment, Carmen was also Carly’s first boss.  In this episode, Carmen shares how she’s used her inner strength to break down boundaries (8:18), why women need to ask themselves tough questions about money (12:14), and her best negotiating advice (31:52). Spoiler: always ask.  Stay tuned at the end for a spotlight on Addison Bay, a company selling activewear fashion out of Philly. Because let’s face it - we’re all wearing leggings these days anyway. Want to be featured? Submit yourself or a friend here.

Julie Greenwald is a powerhouse in the music industry. She started out in the business as an assistant in 1992, and worked her way up to help build Def Jam Records. Now, she’s the chairman and COO of Atlantic Records. And she’s helped advance the careers of some artists you may be familiar with. Think: Bruno Mars, Kelly Clarkson, and Ed Sheeran... to name a few.  In this episode, Julie shares why her work ethic set her apart (12:24), how she changed the culture at Atlantic Records (18:57), and her best negotiating advice (28:08). Hint: know your value.  Stay tuned for a spotlight on The Helm ABA, a behavior therapy company focused on providing families of children affected by autism with the behavior support that they need. Want to be featured? Submit yourself or a friend here. *This show was recorded on April 23rd*

Tiffany R. Warren realized her calling early in life. She is the SVP, Chief Diversity Officer for Omnicom, one of the largest advertising and marketing networks in the world. She’s also the founder and president of ADCOLOR, an organization that champions and advocates for diversity in the creative and tech industries. But her work changing corporate culture actually began when she was a toddler.  In this episode, Tiffany shares how her childhood set the tone for her career (6:54), how she navigates the personal and professional aspects of her role (22:35), and her recommendations for allies at work (24:49).  Stay tuned for a spotlight on Golde, a health and wellness company founded by Trinity Mouzon Wofford. Golde makes products that look good, taste good, and help you feel like your best self. Want to be featured? Submit yourself or a friend here.

Padma Lakshmi has our dream job. She’s the host and executive producer of “Top Chef” and the upcoming series “Taste The Nation.” And her career has taken her all over the world to try the best food. But it’s also thrown her a few curveballs. Padma sat down with us this week to tell us how she became a serious player in the culinary world, and why her activism fuels her work.  In this episode, Padma shares how she overcame imposter syndrome (13:30), why she’s a committed mentor (15:56), and how she brings her sense of activism into the culinary world (18:13).  Stay tuned at the end for a spotlight on Dogdrop, a flexible dog daycare center. Want to be featured? Submit yourself or a friend here.  Note: This episode contains mentions of sexual assault that may be triggering for some listeners.

This episode was recorded on May 28, 2020.  Loni Love brings effortless personality, confidence, and honesty to TV screens daily as the co-host of The Real. And the secret to her success: perseverance. Because her journey has taken many twists. She sat down with us to share how she's found her voice, onstage and off.  You’ll also want to pre-order her new book, I Tried To Change So You Don’t Have To, at lonilovebook.com.  In this episode, Loni shares how she learned perseverance from a young age (3:50), why she’s kept a journal throughout her life (5:35), and how to conquer self doubt (17:47).  Stay tuned at the end for a spotlight on Jali Creatives, a digital marketing firm founded by Juana Jones. It’s providing free templates and resources to businesses who need it in the wake of COVID-19. Want to be featured? Submit yourself or a friend here.

Ariane Goldman is no stranger to taking risks. She climbed the corporate ladder for years before quitting to dive into fashion. She started HATCH, a company creating style solutions for pregnant women. And it’s now changing the conversation about maternity. But she founded the brand when no one was paying attention to the category. This week, she told us why she risked it to be the first mover in a new space.  In this episode, Ariane shares her philosophy of leading with “human first” during the COVID-19 pandemic (4:20), her advice for turning your side hustle into your main hustle (10:06), and what it was like to start a company with a newborn (18:15).  Stay tuned at the end of the episode for a spotlight on Soapply, a company on a mission to get soap in the hands of everyone who needs it right now. Every 8 oz. of Soapply is tied to a $1 donation that helps fund water, sanitation, and hygiene efforts around the globe.

Lindsay Peoples Wagner is the youngest editor-in-chief of a Condé Nast publication. She’s also the only Black female editor-in-chief of a major US fashion magazine. She sat down with us this week to talk about how hard work really does pay off. And about the changes she wants to make in the fashion industry now that she’s at the helm of Teen Vogue.  In this episode, Lindsay shares how she leads with empathy (5:53), why she won’t stay complacent (22:36), and what the role of a mentor should be (23:56). Stay tuned at the end for a spotlight on Weezie Towels, the “towel whisperers” redefining how you shop for bath and towel products. Want to be featured? Submit yourself or a friend here.

Jennifer Justice is an expert negotiator. As an entertainment attorney (for Jay-Z) and now as the CEO and founder of The Justice Department, she’s a pro at getting people what they deserve. Tune in for her best negotiation tips, and the number one mistake she thinks people make. Hint: don’t go in with your best offer.  In this episode, Jennifer shares how she overcame her imposter syndrome (6:22), why she quit her job with no plan as a single mom of two-year-old kids (15:58), and how you can be your own best advocate (26:38).    Stay tuned at the end of the episode for a spotlight on Orenda Tribe, a vintage and upcycled textile business that has pivoted to provide critical aid to Navajo Nation during COVID-19. Want to be featured? Submit yourself or a friend here.  This episode was recorded in February 2020, before theSkimm started working from home because of COVID-19.

Welcome to a special bonus episode of Skimm’d from the Couch with a focus on small businesses. We’re talking to small business founder and CEO Kaylin Marcotte, who turned her nightly routine of puzzling into a business, JIGGY. And she was also employee number one at theSkimm.   In this episode, Kaylin tells us how she turned her idea from a hobby into a business, what it’s like to become the boss, and why it’s important to prioritize your time as a first-time founder.

Whether you’ve seen her as Donna on That ‘70s Show or as Alex on Orange Is The New Black, chances are Laura Prepon has been on your radar for years. But becoming a famous actress and director took serious hustle and determination. Laura sat down with us this week to talk about where that hustle comes from, and how she taps into her inner strength when she faces a setback.  In this episode, Laura shares why she pushed herself to learn to direct (11:59), how she handles being told to “stay in her lane” (18:20), and why we need to cut ourselves some slack right now (28:15). Stay tuned at the end to learn about Frame, a female-founded mental wellness platform that makes it easier to connect with therapists - both digitally and in-person (when COVID-19 guidelines allow). Frame’s mission is to change the way people think about therapy.  Want to be featured? Submit yourself or a friend here. 

Right now, it’s hard to think about what will happen next week, let alone next year. Enter Adriana Cisneros, the CEO of Cisneros, who told us she’s always thinking 50 years into the future. At a minimum. This week, she sat down with us to talk about why thinking (really) big picture is integral to her leadership style, especially in times of change.  In this episode, Adriana shares what it’s like to balance personal and professional relationships in a family business (12:03), how she thinks about restructuring companies (16:43), and why companies need to lead by example during times of instability (26:04).

Ratana Stephens has always been fiercely loyal to her instincts and her employees. This week, she walked us through how she and her husband built Nature’s Path from a local food favorite into a global enterprise. And why investing in her employees has been the key to creating a sustainable business.  In this episode, Ratana shares how she brings empathy into the workplace (5:48), why common sense should not be overlooked (10:54), and what it’s really like to start a business with your spouse (19:01).

Meg Whitman is a three-time tech CEO (think: she’s been in charge of eBay, HP, and now, Quibi). So she’s had experience leading a team through times of crisis before. This week, she told us how her past experiences have made her a “situational” leader. And how she’s applying those lessons to launching a new business during COVID-19.   In this episode, Meg shares how she’s being there for her employees as they all WFH (8:56), why you need to ask questions to get ahead (10:13), and what it’s like to launch her newest venture during a global pandemic (29:46).

As one of the most prominent tech executives in the world, Sheryl Sandberg’s professional and personal experiences have taught her how to be resilient. Even in the most difficult circumstances. This week, she sat down with us to talk about navigating the uncertainty of COVID-19, and how to have perspective even when it feels overwhelming.  In this episode, Sheryl shares how to rally a team through hard times (10:39), her advice for building resilience at work and at home (14:15), and why it’s important to show emotion in the workplace (17:14). Plus, hear her best work from home tips and what TV show she’s binge-watching at home. 

What happens when we actually listen to our gut? Bestselling author and activist Glennon Doyle is no stranger to having deeply honest conversations with herself. And she sat down with Danielle this week to talk about her newest memoir, Untamed. She told us what happened when she freed herself of expectations others had for her. And how her life changed when she listened to her own inner voice.  Plus, hear from surprise guests including Glennon’s sister, Amanda, and her wife (and Olympian) Abby Wambach.  In this episode, Glennon shares what she learned about honesty from recovery circles (6:36), why companies should encourage “untamed” meetings (18:16), and what happens when we stop trying to please everyone (33:04).

Annie Lawless is the founder of not one - but two - successful businesses. She started her career as the co-founder of Suja Juice, one of the largest organic juice companies in the country. Now, she’s building a clean makeup empire with Lawless Beauty. Annie has become an expert in two different industries, and she gave us her tips on how to break into a new field.  In this episode, Annie shares how she turns her anxiety into productivity (15:03), why you don’t need a business plan to start a business (17:40), and her advice on navigating partnerships (23:03).

Karlie Kloss is one of the most famous supermodels in the world. And she’s also an entrepreneur. She is the founder of Kode with Klossy, a free coding boot camp for girls across America. This week she joined us on the couch to discuss how her own curiosity drives every aspect of her career, from being a runway model to a role model.  In this episode, Karlie shares how she overcame imposter syndrome (17:22), why her definition of mentorship has changed (25:40), and her tips for avoiding burnout (27:01).  For the young women in your life who are interested in learning how to code, Kode with Klossy applications are now live for applicants aged 13-18.

Note to self: always bring a gavel to future meetings. Lydia Fenet always has one in her purse. She’s the Global Director for Strategic Partnerships at Christie’s, and the company’s lead benefit auctioneer. Even if you can’t carry a gavel around, she sat down with us to tell us how to apply our own “strike method” and command a room.   In this episode, Lydia shares how to start networking, even when you don’t know anyone in your industry (7:29), how she collects herself before a big negotiation (23:40), and how to get your boss invested in your career (24:52). You can also pick up a copy of Lydia's book for more of her career advice.

This week, we sat down with someone who knows a thing or two about making tough career decisions. As a career journalist, Gretchen Carlson has also become an advocate for equality and dignity in the workplace after she sued the former Fox News chairman, Roger Ailes, in 2016. Her bombshell lawsuit ignited national conversations about sexual harassment and has inspired her advocacy work. Most recently, she’s been fighting the use of mandatory NDAs through her new organization, Lift Our Voices.  In this episode, Gretchen shares how she developed discipline early in her career (6:26), why she made the decision to “jump off a cliff” (17:44), and her advice for handling criticism (28:01). 

We feel like we know Lauren “Lo” Bosworth because we watched her grow up on television. But in the decade that’s passed since The Hills, she has also made a name for herself as an entrepreneur. She is the founder and CEO of Love Wellness, a company that makes clean personal-care products for women. And she’s got a lot of advice about how to make decisions and pivot your career.    In this episode, Lo shares why she exercises caution on social media (8:32), how her health struggles inspired her to start her company (16:56), and her advice about how to learn from failure (26:58).

Erica Williams Simon is a writer, host, and the CEO of Sage House media. Her new book reveals how she re-wrote her life story and shares how you can do the same. She walked us through how she makes tough decisions, starting with how she quit a perfect-on-paper job and moved across the country.   In this episode, Erica shares how she learned to ask meaningful questions (4:12), how to manage the financial risk of leaving a job (14:47), and the art of crafting your story (20:02).

If the phrase ‘mat talk’ means nothing to you, it’s time to watch Cheer on Netflix. This week, we sat down with the fearless leader of Navarro College Cheerleading, Coach Monica aka the Queen. She’s one of the most successful college coaches, with 14 national championships under her belt. And we want her to run our lives.  In this episode, Monica shares how she holds her athletes accountable (12:42), why she applies her business background to coaching (18:40), and the latest on a potential season two (32:39).

If you’re looking for some dinner inspiration, look no further than Food52. And this week, we sat down with its co-founder and CEO, Amanda Hesser. She’s had some of our dream jobs, including apprenticing in kitchens across Europe and writing about food for The New York Times. In this episode, she reveals how she turned her passion for cooking and writing into a company. Episode highlights: Amanda shares how she learned to trust her gut (8:57), why she struggled in corporate environments (11:34), and how she acts on feedback from the Food52 community (22:40). 

Growing up in Islamabad, Shiza Shahid became interested in activism. And that interest propelled her to start the global nonprofit, the Malala Fund. Eight years (and Malala's Nobel Peace Prize) later, Shiza continues to make an impact through her angel fund and her line of sustainable cookware, Our Place.  In this episode, Shiza shares why she created a secret summer camp for girls in Pakistan (11:17), her reaction when Malala won the Nobel Peace Prize (16:44), and her advice for employees looking to create change in the workplace (28:42). SFTC listeners get 20% off fromourplace.com products with the discount code 'Skimm'.

You probably know Kate Upton as a model and actress. She’s also a mother and businesswoman. Kate started working when she was 15, and achieved her success by putting in 16-hour workdays and challenging industry conventions.  In this episode, Kate tells us how she learned to ignore her critics (16:20), what she wrote in a letter to Anna Wintour (18:13), and why she came forward with her own experiences with harassment on set (20:25).  Note: This episode contains details about sexual harassment that may be triggering for some listeners.

Before serving as US Ambassador to the UN, Samantha Power was a scholar, activist, and journalist. Tune in to hear how she built her career around her belief system. And how she managed up when those beliefs were challenged.   In this episode, Ambassador Power tells us what she learned from her parents’ failed marriage (9:41), how to disagree with your boss (24:53), and shares her journey with fertility while working nonstop in the White House (30:03).  Her new memoir, The Education of an Idealist, is available now.

Missy Robbins is the chef and owner of Lilia and Misi restaurants in Brooklyn, NY and the co-founder of Grovehouse Hospitality. She sat down with us to share what it’s like to rise through the ranks of the restaurant business. Think: more Chef’s Table, less Monica from Friends.  In this episode, Missy reveals how she recognized signs of burnout (20:07), why she embraced an unlikely partnership (25:59), and shares her ultimate comfort food (39:03).

We’re obsessed with Tate’s Bake Shop cookies at Skimm HQ. So we were thrilled to speak to its founder, Kathleen King, on this week’s episode. Tune in to hear how she built her cookie empire, and why the road to her success wasn’t always so sweet.  In this special live episode, King tell us about what she learned from her family’s farm (2:18), how to build an effective team (31:55), and shares how her success was born from failure (14:30).  This episode was recorded at theSkimm’s Celebrate Smarter pop-up in New York City. Shop in-store or online.

Danica Patrick first made a name for herself on the male-dominated racetrack and became one of the most recognizable female athletes in the world. While she may have retired from racing, she now has a podcast, book, and winery. So, she's far from slowing down.   In this episode, Danica tells us about handling fame at a young age (13:21), making friends on the circuit (16:38), and how she traded racing for the business world (26:01).

Ambassador Susan Rice is no stranger to high pressure situations and public scrutiny. Her career in foreign policy was shaped by strong relationships, steadfast resolve, and a healthy dose of tough love. In this episode, Ambassador Rice tell us about learning from a famous mentor (12:15), persevering through public criticism (27:48), and shares her best advice for navigating political disagreements at the Thanksgiving table (34:40).

With a sustainable mission and a made-to-order business model, Misha Nonoo’s namesake clothing brand has upended the fashion industry. But in order to innovate, she first had to shut down and start over.  In this live episode, Misha shares how her hardest moments became her most creative (20:54), the importance of supply chain sustainability (28:03), and the underrated value of uniform dressing (31:11).

Amy Shecter is the CEO of Glamsquad, a beauty and technology company that’s a Skimm HQ favorite and offers on-demand, at-home beauty services. Amy’s leadership roles have spanned marketing to executive management. While her career trajectory hasn’t always fit into a clearly defined box, she’s paved a path pivoting skills to find success.  On this episode, Amy discusses how to give hard feedback to your boss (12:09), what it’s like to translate vision into tactics (14:30), and shares the conversation with her daughter that changed her career (20:16).

Amy Nelson is the co-founder of The Riveter, a company which started as a series of co-working spaces, “built by women, for everyone” and is now positioning itself as a modern membership network community.  With a firm belief that motherhood should not be an impediment to your career opportunities, Amy launched The Riveter while pregnant, has since expanded nationally to 10 locations, and is now the mother of 4 girls.  On this episode, Amy talks about the responsibility of taking on venture capital (14:07), what she considers the hardest part of building her business (19:23), and shares her take on the notion of women having it all (26:06).

Michelle Lee is the Editor-in-Chief of Allure Magazine. She’s an early adopter of digital strategy within print publications but also a champion for diversity & wants to change the world by broadening the definition of beauty.  On this episode, Michelle discusses how the role of EIC has evolved (15:39) reveals the skills she looks for while hiring (18:01) and discloses which cover stories are closest to her heart (24:27).

Brittany Snow is an actress, producer & director. Her breakout role was at age 12 on Guiding Light, and since then she's starred in many films including John Tucker Must Die, Someone Great, and Pitch Perfect 1, 2 and 3.  Brittany’s directorial debut, Milkshake, had its world premiere earlier this year and she is currently starring in the new FOX drama, Almost Family. On this special live episode, Brittany opens up about tapping into her inner strength (13:53), talks about the importance of not taking any short cuts (15:15), and shares how she stays motivated while playing the long game in her career (22:23) This episode of Skimm’d From the Couch is presented by Almost Family, a new drama that airs Wednesdays at 9/8c on FOX.

Vicky Tsai is the founder of Tatcha Beauty Products, which will soon be celebrating its 10th anniversary. Beauty goes beyond skin-deep for Vicky, as the brand also has a strong philanthropic mission of promoting literacy and education for girls in Asia & Africa.  In this episode, Vicky talks about how she was willing to give up her financial security (4:28), how taking a big risk actually made perfect sense (12:08), and why she turned down acquisition & financing offers year after year as a values-driven company (27:19). This episode of Skimm’d From the Couch is sponsored by AC Hotels by Marriott.

Sarah Kauss is the founder & CEO of S'well. With a product that is beautiful, sustainable, and charitable, Sarah is on a mission to reduce single-use plastic worldwide. In this episode, Sarah talks about the characteristic she harnessed to start her company (8:23), how to shift away from viewing people in your industry as competitors (13:28), and why you can’t always keep your big idea to yourself (28:55).  This episode of Skimm’d From the Couch is sponsored by AC Hotels by Marriott. We're taking a break next week and will be back with an all new season of SFTC episodes beginning October 9. 

Jodi Kantor & Megan Twohey are the the Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative reporters who broke the news of Harvey Weinstein's sexual harassment and abuse allegations for The New York Times and the authors of the newly released book, "She Said." In this special live episode, Megan & Jodi discuss the approach which helped them get victims on the record (5:45), how the original tip for the story surfaced (13:04) and why they believe journalism can drive social change (16:03). This episode of Skimm’d From the Couch is sponsored by AC Hotels by Marriott.

Bobbi Brown is a beauty industry titan and a world renowned makeup artist. She's also a best-selling author, speaker, educator & serial entrepreneur. In this episode, Bobbi explains how an elevator meeting became a serendipitous moment for her product (10:35), what it means to be a "pusher" in management (18:00), and how she maintained a consistent brand for more than 20 years (23:30). This episode of Skimm’d From the Couch is sponsored by AC Hotels by Marriott.

Wendy Kopp founded Teach For America in 1989, which leveraged recent college grads against educational inequity in the US. Applying that same approach globally, she co-founded Teach For All in 2007. Wendy has been recognized as one of Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People & was awarded the presidential citizens medal for her work. On the couch, Wendy talks about how to sustain passion in a career that has spanned 30 years (12:40 ) and why inexperience can actually be a strength (23:53). This episode of Skimm’d From the Couch is sponsored by AC Hotels by Marriott. 

Jen Rubio is the co-founder of Away, the suitcases you see absolutely everywhere. Jen and her co-founder, Stephanie Korey, started Away in 2015, raising $31 million in seed financing, making it one of the highest-funded female-backed startups. On the couch, Jen gives her tips on mastering a co-founder relationship (17:35) and how they launched their brand before even having a product (20:07). This episode of Skimm’d From the Couch is sponsored by AC Hotels by Marriott. 

Marie Forleo is an author and entrepreneur who has built one of the fastest growing companies in the country. She’s the founder of MarieTV and B-School, a digital educational program that develops mission-driven entrepreneurs and has helped 44,000 graduates. Her new book Everything is Figureoutable comes out on September 10th and is available now for pre-order. On the couch, Marie explains why she quit her first job on Wall Street to pursue her passion, even when it meant choosing between that and a steady paycheck (6:52). She shares how her journey to confidence came from disciplines as wide ranging as publishing, to bartending, to dance (15:30) and told us the one thing that makes her tell entrepreneurs to, “wake the eff up” (22:09). This episode of Skimm’d From the Couch is sponsored by AC Hotels by Marriott.

Mel Robbins is an entrepreneur, best-selling author, and one of the most highly paid and booked female speakers in the world. You may know her from her infamous TED Talk and her 5 Second Rule. Up next, she’ll host her own daytime talk show The Mel Robbins Show which premieres September 16th. Check your local listings for where to watch. On the couch, Mel describes her journey of going from $800,000 in debt to becoming the multi-disciplinary entrepreneur she is today. She shares the practical strategies she uses every day, from the science behind the 5 second rule (3:05), to finding the “message in the mess” (13:05), asking for the right salary (22:00), and turning anxiety into excitement (33:30). This episode of Skimm'd From the Couch is sponsored by AC Hotels by Marriott.

Ann Curry is an award-winning journalist, anchor and producer. She got her start in TV back in the 1970s and has been on our screens ever since. For NBC, she reported from war zones, natural disasters, human rights’ tragedies for 25 years. Her 2012 departure from “Today” was filled with tears and rumors about what happened behind the scenes. In 2015, she left NBC and now executive producers her own shows, including her latest, Chasing the Cure, which launches August 8th on TNT and TBS. On the Couch, we talked with Ann about why her grit helped her prove her worth to sexist colleagues back in the day (4:30), the promise about work she and her husband made to each other (8:20), how her new live TV project wants to crowdsource cures (10:30) and why she finds it tough to talk about leaving NBC (21:00). This episode of Skimm'd From the Couch is sponsored by AC Hotels by Marriott.

Leah Busque Solivan is an engineer and entrepreneur. In 2008, she became a rising star of the gig economy when she quit her job at IBM to found TaskRabbit, the mobile and online marketplace that hooks you up with people to help with everything from picking up your laundry to building your furniture. She sold her baby to IKEA in 2017 and now she’s using her expertise to help other startups as a general partner at the venture capital firm, Fuel Capital. On the Couch, Leah talks to us about how she hired her first 30 task rabbits (11:45), why it was hard for her to celebrate success (18:00), what pushed her to the edge (23:20) and how she helps new entrepreneurs learn from her mistakes (30:20). This episode of Skimm'd From the Couch is sponsored by AC Hotels by Marriott.

Last week, Planned Parenthood’s former president, Dr. Leana Wen, parted ways with the organization. After just eight months on the job. But even before she took the helm at PP, Dr. Wen was a rising star in the public health sphere. She was Baltimore’s Health Commissioner, an ER physician, and wrote a book calling for more transparency in medicine - all before she was 35. We sat down with Dr. Wen a week before she and PP parted ways. On the Couch, she talks to us about how she developed the drive to overcome huge obstacles in her childhood and start college at the age of 13 (6:30), how to find and keep mentors (8:50), and how she’s dealt with haters throughout her fast-track career in medicine and public health (17:00). Listen and subscribe to get in on it. 

ICYMI, we wrote a book: How to Skimm Your Life. It’s all about making it easier to navigate allll the tricky parts of being an adult. From reading a wine list. To negotiating a raise. And then: we took the book on tour. In ten cities across the US, amazing moderators flipped the script and asked us the questions. We had so much fun that we decided to share it with you. Here’s our conversation with Ashley Graham, in our hometown: New York City. We'll be back next week with fresh new episodes from the Couch.

Tina Sharkey is the powerhouse behind Brandless, the direct-to-consumer company that’s all about community. But before she started Brandless with her cofounder, she spent her career building communities online for major companies like AOL and Johnson & Johnson. Tina’s also been on the investing side and has helped out in tons of startups … including ours. Thanks, Tina. On the Couch, she talks to us about how her family taught her hustle (3:51), how she thinks about mentorship (10:18), and why she decided to step down as CEO in March (25:00).  PS: Our book – "How To Skimm Your Life" – is finally out. Get it here: https://theskimm.com/book

ICYMI, we’re on tour for “How To Skimm Your Life” (https://theskimm.com/book). While we’re away, here’s a quick chat we had with Sarah Larson Levey. She’s the co-founder and CEO of Y7 Studio, the yoga company she founded with her now-husband in 2013. Back then, she worked in fashion full-time. And their studio was a small weekend pop-up in Brooklyn. Now, she’s built it into a national chain. On the Couch, she talks to us about turning her side hustle into a main hustle (3:00), working with her husband (8:31), and scaling her brand (11:45). We’ll be back next week with more “Skimm’d from the Couch.” 

Eileen Fisher started her career as an interior and graphic designer. But that changed in the 80s. Eileen took a trip to Japan, where the kimono inspired her to start her own fashion brand. With no experience in clothing design. It’s worked out for her: These days, she’s the woman behind – you guessed it – Eileen Fisher. On the Couch, she talks to us about how she started her business (4:15), growing her company as an introvert (9:20), and why her company doesn’t have your average leadership structure (15:30). PS: Our book is (finally) out. It covers allll the most important parts of being an adult, like negotiating your salary, saving for retirement, and reading a wine list. Get it here:https://theskimm.com/book

Valerie Jarrett started her career as a corporate lawyer. But in the late 80s, she made a change and headed to work in the mayor’s office in her hometown of Chicago. That’s where Valerie hired a young Michelle Robinson. Who you might know now as former First Lady Michelle Obama. Fast forward a few years, and Valerie is now the longest-serving Senior Advisor to the President in history. And in 2016, she was the guest on our first-ever Facebook Live. Guess which one is higher on her resume. On the Couch, she talks to us about her new book (2:04), how to advocate for women at work (9:52), and what it’s like to challenge your boss … when he’s the president of the United States (30:45).  PS: Our Skimm Reads this week is “Every Tool’s a Hammer” by Adam Savage aka the star of “Mythbusters.” The book is all about the metaphorical tools he’s put in his toolbox in his 40-plus years as a creative. Add it to your toolbox (shopping cart) here: https://skimmth.is/2HURiR0

Erika Nardini has spent her career growing and marketing brands, heading up big-name companies like Microsoft, Yahoo!, and AOL. She was living in Boston when a tiny sports publication called Barstool Sports got started. And Erika became a superfan. So when she got the chance to come on board as Barstool’s CEO in 2016, she didn’t hesitate to take it. Even though it was controversial. On the Couch, she talks to us about dealing with criticism, being the boss of her company’s founder, and leading a company where she’s not the target demographic. PS: Our Skimm Reads this week is … us. In case you haven’t heard, we wrote a book. It’s basically a crash course in adulting. If you haven’t pre-ordered it yet, what are you waiting for? Get it here. https://skimmth.is/2UgoeXq

Hannah Bronfman knows a thing or two about hustle. She’s been a professional DJ, the cofounder of an app, and an author. And now, she’s the founder of the lifestyle brand HBFIT. One of our favorite bullet points on her resume: she’s one of the moderators on our book tour. On this episode, she talks to us about where she got her entrepreneurial spirit (8:45) and how she makes sure she’s taking care of herself (20:24). Plus she takes a few questions from our LIVE audience (26:00). PS: Our Skimm Reads this week is … us. In case you haven’t heard, we wrote a book. It’s basically a crash course in adulting. We cover everything from your finances to the right wine pairings. If you haven’t pre-ordered it yet, what are you waiting for? Get it here. https://skimmth.is/2UgoeXq 

Poppy Harlow is an anchor on CNN Newsroom. She’s the host of the podcast Boss Files, where she talks to badass leaders about how they made it to the top. She’s interviewed everyone from Warren Buffett… to Jay Z. And if that wasn’t enough, Poppy’s also a mom of two. On the Couch, she talks to us about how having kids made her more efficient at work (8:00), why she chose journalism (14:03), and that time she interviewed a sitting Supreme Court Justice… while wearing a diaper (22:29). And she takes a call from a very special guest. PS: We’ve been thinking about money a lot at Skimm HQ. Lucky for us, our good friend and adviser Alexa von Tobel wrote a book about it. It’s called “Financially Forward,” and it’s this week’s Skimm Reads. Get it here.  https://skimmth.is/2PZ70N5

Both Christina Applegate and Linda Cardellini started their careers when they were really young. Christina shot her first commercial before she could walk and talk. And Linda’s first big role was in college, on “Freaks and Geeks.” They’ve been everywhere since then. But if you’ve logged into Netflix in the last week, you might know that they’re now co-starring on Dead to Me. It’s a new series that’s part comedy. Part tragedy. And allll binge-worthy. On the Couch, Christina and Linda talk to us about how Time’s Up has changed the way they negotiate and how they handle not getting a callback. Plus they take a few questions from our live studio audience.  PS: This week’s Skimm Reads is brought to you by … our team. They recommended “Grit” by Angela Duckworth. It’s all about how success takes hustle and, yes, grit. Get it here.

Joi Gordon is the CEO of Dress for Success. That’s the nonprofit that provides low-income women clothing and career counseling to help them succeed in their careers. But she didn’t start there. Joi got her start as a lawyer and volunteered at Dress for Success on the side. Not long after that, she switched over full time. And she’s spent the last 20 years growing the nonprofit from one storefront in NYC … to a global entity. On the Couch, she talks to us about why she gave up her law career (6:00), what she looks for when hiring full-time employees (10:50), and the key to convincing people to get on your side (14:25).  PS: This week, we’re getting our focus on with Oprah’s new book, “The Path Made Clear.” Get it here. 

Shilpa Shah and Karla Gallardo are the co-founders of Cuyana, the fashion brand that’s all about “fewer, better things.” Aka high-quality clothes and bags at a price that doesn’t hurt your wallet. Shilpa spent the first part of her career building web and mobile apps for Fortune 500 companies. Karla grew up in Ecuador and had a quick career in finance before she and Shilpa met at business school. And decided to start Cuyana together. It paid off. Earlier this year, they closed their Series C round of funding. On the Couch, they talk to us about how to find a cofounder (7:00) and why fundraising is so hard (19:33). Plus we put them to a cofounder compatibility test that a VC gave us way back when (30:52). PS: The spring refresh has officially hit our bookshelves. We’re adding “The Hill to Die On” by Jake Sherman and Anna Palmer to our list. Get it here.  The Hill to Die on/ Get it Here https://skimmth.is/2IzPxtI

It’s Stress Awareness Month. Chelsea Handler has been working on managing hers. You know Chelsea as the comedian … turned late-night host … turned Netflix documentarian … turned activist and advocate. And she just became a 5-time best-selling author with her new book “Life Will Be the Death of Me … And You, Too!” – which came out the day we recorded this episode. Chelsea is a long-time friend of theSkimm and one of our earliest investors. On the Couch, she talks to us about what led to her latest shift, going with her gut, and navigating criticism. Which she’s very familiar with. 

Tracy Sun is an expert at making big changes in her career. She started off as a neuroscience researcher. Casual. But then she decided to follow her passion for fashion and business. Throughout her career, she’s helped start – and grow – several companies. Today, she’s the founder and Senior VP of New Markets at Poshmark, the platform that helps 40 million people buy and sell their clothes and accessories online. One of us is a superfan. On the couch, Tracy talks to us about finding a cofounder, managing a team through the failure of her first business, and not being afraid of the things she doesn’t know. PS: What we’re reading this week: NBC correspondent Jean Chatzky’s new book, “Women with Money: The Judgment-Free Guide to Creating the Joyful, Less Stressed, Purposeful (and, Yes, Rich) Life You Deserve.” Get it here.

Sarah Goldberg has been passionate about acting since she was a little kid. She got her first big break at the Young Vic Theatre in London, but eventually made the switch from the stage to the screen. Now you know her as Sally on HBO’s “Barry,” the show about an ex-marine-turned-hitman who decides to make a career transition. To acting. On the show, Sarah stars alongside some of the greats: Bill Hader and Henry Winkler. On this episode of “Skimm’d from the Couch” – live from HBO’s Inspiration Room – she talks to us about being 45 minutes late to her audition for “Barry”, what it’s like to work with Stefon and the Fonz every day, and dealing with imposter syndrome

Sarah Kate Ellis started her career in the magazine industry, where she helped launch and revitalize major media brands at outlets like InStyle, Vogue, and New York Magazine. Now, she’s the President and CEO of GLAAD. Translation: she’s an expert at using storytelling to shape coverage of the LGBTQ community in media and entertainment. On this episode, recorded live in HBO’s Inspiration Room in NYC, Sarah Kate talks to us about the challenges of leading an activist organization, the GLAAD Media Awards, and writing a book about the time she and her wife were pregnant at the same time. 

Arlan Hamilton started her career in the music industry, working with artists like Jason Derulo, Toni Braxton, and CeeLo Green. But in 2015, she took a look at Silicon Valley and saw a major lack of diversity there. So she decided to change it. Casual. Arlan started her venture firm Backstage Capital to invest in startups led by underrepresented founders. It wasn’t always easy (think: sleeping at the San Francisco airport while she built her business). But it paid off. Backstage Capital has invested nearly 5 million dollars into startups led by women, minorities, and members of the LGBTQ community. On this LIVE episode, Arlan talks to us about speaking up, taking risks, and getting inside the door… as an outsider. PS: After we recorded our interview with Arlan, Axios reported that Backstage Capital has run into trouble raising money for their most recent fund, and that the firm is shifting focus to its accelerator program. Arlan told us in an email Tuesday that Backstage is still working on the fund, and “will continue to until it's raised.” 

Katia Beauchamp started her career in finance. But after a few years, she decided that she didn’t feel challenged. So Katia switched gears … and went to Harvard Business School. Casual. That’s where she met her cofounder, Hayley Barna. And together, they launched Birchbox, the subscription company that helps people discover new beauty products. Since Katia and Hayley launched it in 2010, the company has grown and changed a lot: they’ve earned two and a half million active subscribers. They were acquired by one of their investors. And Hayley decided to leave in 2015. Katia has stayed on board as CEO. On the couch, she talks to us about learning to lead on her own, working through a complicated pregnancy, and the time she cold-emailed Apple co-founder Steve Jobs. And got a response. 

Rebecca Jarvis grew up with two passions: journalism and econ. As a teenager, she was even a reporter for a local kids’ program in Minnesota. But after college, Rebecca decided to go into finance. Years later, she got back to journalism. Today, she’s the Chief Business, Tech, and Economics Correspondent at ABC News. On the couch, she talks to us about the time she was on “The Apprentice”, how she made the switch from finance to journalism, and what she looks for in candidates now. PS: Rebecca has her own podcast, No Limits with Rebecca Jarvis, where she interviews female entrepreneurs about what it takes to build their business empires. After this episode, check it out -- because Rebecca’s interviewing US this week. 

If you like hearing from us once a week, how about audio from theSkimm every day? Our daily news podcast, ‘Skimm This,’ launches on Monday. Every weekday, we’re breaking down the most important stories of the day and explaining why they matter. Search ‘Skimm This’ and subscribe. You won’t want to miss it.

You might’ve noticed that we’ve been talking about money lately at theSkimm. A big part of money 101: knowing how to negotiate. Peggy Johnson’s an expert. She’s the EVP of business development at Microsoft. Translation: she drives strategic partnerships for the company … and negotiates. A lot. Peggy’s been running the show since 2014. She’s an avid runner, and she’s been known to carry out negotiations with sneakers on. While running. Before Microsoft, she spent almost 25 years working her way up the ladder at Qualcomm. On the couch, she talks to us about maintaining business relationships, standing out as an introvert, and playing to her strengths at the negotiation table.

Anu Duggal and Sutian Dong are the partners of Female Founders Fund, where they invest in tech companies started by women. Anu began her career as an entrepreneur -- including starting India’s first wine bar, and an e-commerce company. Sutian came from the investing side of things. In 2014, Anu decided to launch Female Founders Fund. A couple years later, she brought Sutian on as a partner. Together, they’ve invested in companies like Thrive Global and Rent the Runway. On the Couch, they talk to us about what makes a great cold email, the companies in their shadow portfolios, and why they’re so focused on building communities for female founders.

Valentine’s Day is coming up. And Amber Venz Box knows a thing or two about making relationships work … at work. She’s the president of RewardStyle -- the company she founded with her then-boyfriend, now-husband Baxter. Amber started out as a personal shopper. But she realized that people were buying the products she recommended on her blog on their own … and cutting her out of a commission. So in 2011, Amber and Baxter started RewardStyle. It connects brands and influencers so both sides can benefit. In 2017, they drove over a billion dollars in sales. And launched their app, which attracted a million users in just 9 months. But building her company hasn’t been easy. On the Couch, she talks to us about being an introverted leader, how to network, and what it’s like to build a business with your SO. 

New York Fashion Week kicks off this week. So we sat down with Rebecca Minkoff -- the co-founder and creative director of, you guessed it, Rebecca Minkoff, LLC. That’s the fashion brand she started in 2005 with her brother. Since then, their company has been a leader in shaping the future of fashion: Rebecca Minkoff was one of the first fashion brands to engage with their customers through social media and influencers. But she hasn’t stopped there. In 2018, Rebecca launched the Female Founder Collective to support and invest in women-led businesses. At this LIVE power breakfast, she talks to us about taking risks, going to couples therapy with her brother-slash-cofounder, and supporting other women in the workplace.

Arielle Charnas is the super influencer behind the style blog-turned-brand Something Navy. Arielle started the blog in 2009, when she was just 22 years old. And since then, she’s gained a following of more than a million people. Last year, she launched her brand with Nordstrom… which was so popular that it crashed the site. Now, she’s rolling out more and more collections with the retailer. On the couch, she talks to us about being her own boss, choosing the right opportunities, and building a team.

New Year...new Skimm’d from the Couch. We’re starting off the year with the queen of motivation, Jillian Michaels. You might remember Jillian from her role as a trainer on the hit NBC show, “The Biggest Loser,” or from her fitness DVDs. But you might not know that she also built a wellness empire, including an exercise streaming platform, and her award-winning fitness app. Jillian’s also a best-selling author, with a brand-new book out: “The 6 Keys: Unlock Your Genetic Potential for Ageless Strength, Health, and Beauty.” On the couch, she talks to us about how she motivates herself, leading by example, and making long-term resolutions...that you can actually keep. Get ready to be inspired.

When Alexa von Tobel graduated college, she still had a lot of q’s about how to manage her cash. So she did what anyone would: wrote a 75-page business plan. And took it to Harvard Business School. Casual. But within a semester, she decided to drop out and start her business for real. Enter: LearnVest, the company that makes financial resources more accessible for everyone. In 2015, LearnVest was acquired by Northwestern Mutual. And now, Alexa has responsibilities at both companies. On the couch, she talks to us about dropping out of business school, why she has two executive coaches, and going through an acquisition...while 9 months pregnant.

Samantha Barry grew up in Ireland. And she always knew news was the path for her. Sam started out her career as a researcher, and then became an international reporter. Her reporting took her around the world, where she started to see the power of social media. She took that realization and went on to help major news organizations build out their social media presences. We’re talking huge names like BBC and CNN. Now, she’s the editor in chief of Glamour. Anna Wintour has called her Glamour’s first digital-native editor...so it’s no surprise that Sam’s taking the magazine entirely online. On the couch, she talks to us about being fearless, making changes at an established company, and the three ways she negotiates for herself.

Our guest this week is the one and only Martha Stewart. Growing up, she had a knack for all things lifestyle: cooking, gardening and sewing. But after college, she decided to follow a different path. To Wall Street. Martha eventually took the business skills she learned there...and used them to build an empire of her own. There have been bumps along the way. But now, she’s the Chief Creative Officer of Sequential Brands Group, where she oversees everything from the Martha Stewart Living Magazine to her cooking show with Snoop Dogg. We had a lot of questions, too. On the couch, she talks to us about her very first side hustle, how she got her company started, and what she’s like as a manager.

Beth Comstock is the first female vice chair of GE. But before that, she built a career in communications at companies like CBS, CNN, and NBCUniversal. At NBC, Beth helped launch one of your favorite binge-ing sites: Hulu. And she kept working her way up the ranks. All the way to becoming the first female Vice Chair of GE. Most recently -- Beth wrote a book about courage, creativity, and making change. It’s called “Imagine it Forward.” On the couch, she talks to us about what a vice chair actually is, why she took the job nobody else wanted, and what it means to be an introverted leader.

Lauren Bush Lauren has diplomacy in her blood. Former President George HW Bush is her grandfather, and President George W Bush is her uncle. But Lauren has built a legacy all her own. She’s the CEO and co-founder of FEED Projects, the company that sells products like bags and accessories...and uses the sales to help distribute food all around the world. Lauren came up with the idea in college while working with the UN. Flash forward a few years, and FEED has donated more than 100 million meals to people in need. On the couch, Lauren talks to us about asking for advice, taking maternity leave, and starting a company -- without any other job experience.

We're baaaack. With vino. And Barbara Corcoran. You know Barbara as one of the sharks on “Shark Tank.” But the show is just one part of her story. After college, Barbara took a job as a teacher. She quit after a year and moved on to waitressing. A little while after that, she started her own real estate business...and turned it into a multi-million dollar empire. She sold it in the early 2000s. Since then, she’s been using her money to help other entrepreneurs get their ideas off the ground at "Shark Tank," and on her own podcast, “Business Unusual.” On the couch, she talks to us about the 22 jobs she had by age 23, the loan that helped her make it big, and how to negotiate.

Midterm elections are in T minus 6 days. Politicians are trying to convince you to hire them. And behind every politician...is a communications director helping them get the word out. So we brought in two of them to talk to us about how they do their jobs -- and how they made it to the top of the political game. Episode 2: Jennifer Palmieri. Jennifer has a long history in politics, starting when she interned for then-Senator Leon Panetta (D-CA) in college (Panetta was later President Bill Clinton’s chief of staff). Later, Jennifer got into the White House herself. And she became President Barack Obama’s communications director. After that, she was the head of comms for Hillary Clinton’s 2016 presidential campaign. Now she’s also an author. Her new book is all about stories and advice for the next generation of female leaders. On the couch, she talks to us about crying at work, supporting her female colleagues, and managing up...when your boss is the president.

Midterm elections are in T minus 6 days. Politicians are trying to convince you to hire them. And behind every politician...is a communications director helping them get the word out. So we brought in two of them to talk to us about how they do their jobs -- and how they made it to the top of the political game. Episode 1: AshLee Strong. AshLee has worked in communications roles all over Washington, from the House of Representatives, to the Senate, to the White House. She was even the senior communications director for Governor Scott Walker’s (R-WI) 2016 presidential run. These days, she’s the national press secretary for one of the most powerful Republicans in the country: House Speaker Paul Ryan. On the couch, she talks to us about what a comms director actually is, how she created a network in Washington, and what it’s like to disagree with your boss...when he’s the Speaker of the House of Representatives.

When Sylvia Acevedo was 7 years old, she was a Girl Scout. One night, her troop leader caught her looking up at the stars...and encouraged her to pursue that interest. Sylvia took that advice. And became a rocket scientist at NASA right out of college. Eventually, she switched tracks and went down the business-leadership path. She’s been a leader at companies like Dell, Apple, and IBM, and she even worked for the White House. But since 2016, Sylvia has been the CEO of Girl Scouts, where she’s helped build out the Scouts’ alumni network, and introduced new badges and programming around STEM. And yes, she’s earned her science badge along the way. On the couch, she talks to us about being a servant leader, investing in herself, and being persistent...at cookie sales and beyond.

Katie Couric is one of the most recognized faces in journalism today. You’re probably one of the millions of people who have tuned in to one of Katie’s shows over the years, whether that was “Getting There” with us at theSkimm, the TODAY Show, or the CBS Evening News. Which -- by the way -- made her the first solo female anchor of a major nightly news broadcast. But that’s not where her story starts: Katie started out by interning at local news stations in high school. And after college, she worked as a desk assistant. The rest is history. On the couch, she talks to us about her most memorable interviews, being persistent, and getting told she’d never make it on air.

Tory Burch is the founder, chairman, and CEO of … Tory Burch. You know her as the woman (and the name) behind so many of your favorite clothes. But way before she created those iconic Reva flats, she built a career in fashion PR, working for designers like Ralph Lauren and Vera Wang. Tory eventually made the switch from PR… to designing her own clothes, and running her own business. That was 2004. These days, her clothes are sold in more than 250 Tory Burch stores and over 3,000 department and specialty stores around the world. In 2009, she launched the Tory Burch Foundation to help empower female entrepreneurs. And now, she’s got a brand new initiative to help get out the vote. On the couch, she talks to us about how to negotiate, her Oprah moment, and taking negative feedback when your brand is your name. 

You might know Taraji P Henson as Cookie on “Empire,” or from her roles in movies like “Hustle and Flow” and “Hidden Figures.” But you might not know the rest of Taraji’s story. She’s always wanted to be an actor. But she didn’t take her passion seriously until she flunked out of precalculus in college. After school, she moved to Los Angeles to chase her dreams -- with just $700 in her pocket. And she made it happen. Now, Taraji’s using her voice to create change in a new way. She started the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation to tackle the stigma around mental health in the African American community. On the couch, she talks to us about rejection, not giving into fear, and what it’s like to negotiate in a quickly-changing Hollywood.

Nancy Brinker started the Susan G Komen Foundation in 1982 after her sister was diagnosed with breast cancer. Back then, she had just $200 and a list of potential donors. Now, it’s one of the largest cancer charities in the world. In the 40 years since the organization got started, Nancy and the foundation have raised $3 billion to help fund cancer research. On the couch, she talks to us about starting the Susan G Komen Foundation, motivating a team, and taking breast cancer from a taboo subject… to a national cause.

Christina Tosi started baking at home with her family. And after going to college for applied mathematics, she decided to get back to those baking roots. She went to culinary school and worked in a few different restaurants around NYC. Eventually, Christina landed at Momofuku – where she started the franchise’s first bakery, Milk Bar. She serves as its founder and CEO. Today, the bakery has expanded all across North America, and it’s earned Christina a spot on the show “MasterChef.” On the couch, she talks to us about finding mentors, thriving under pressure, and baking as stress relief.

Susan Lyne’s career isn’t easy to Skimm. She grew up in Boston, and after going to college for a while, decided to skip school and get straight into her career. Susan was a journalist. Then she switched into entertainment, and even started her own magazine. Since then, she’s been an exec at major companies like Gilt, AOL, Martha Stewart, and ABC. Meaning, yes, you can thank her for “Grey’s Anatomy.” In 2014, Susan made another change: she started her own venture capital firm to invest in companies with female founders. It’s called BBG – Built By Girls. On the couch, she talks to us about networking (cough, stalking) your way to the career you want, prioritizing your time, and why introverts make great leaders.

Kat Cole started her career as a waitress at Hooters. At first, she was just helping out her family. But in her second year of college, she decided to turn that side hustle...into her main hustle. So she went to work at Hooters corporate instead of graduating. And at 20 years old, she was helping the company open franchises all over the world. A couple years later, Kat became a VP at the company. Eventually, she got a business degree and took over at Cinnabon, where she helped grow the biz to a billion-dollar brand. Now she’s the President and COO of FOCUS brands, aka the parent co of companies like Cinnabon and Auntie Anne’s Pretzels. On the couch, she talks to us about addressing negative feedback, choosing to go to business school without a BA, and “the brutal leadership mirror”. We’ll let her explain.

Margaret Brennan is the moderator of “Face the Nation” and a senior correspondent for CBS. But she didn’t always plan to be a journalist. At first, Margaret thought she wanted to be a diplomat, so she studied foreign affairs, the Mideast -- she even learned Arabic. But then she interned at CNN in college. And decided journalism was the path for her. Since then, she’s covered business news for CNBC and Bloomberg TV. At CBS, she’s covered everything from nuclear negotiations to US tensions with North Korea. On the couch, we flip the script and ask Margaret the questions. She talks to us about what it’s like to cover Washington, thinking through maternity leave, and the responsibility to cheer on younger women.  

You know Arianna Huffington as the woman who put the Huffington in The Huffington Post. But she’s got a lot more on her resume. Including ‘best-selling author’ and ‘ran for office.’ But in 2007, after working 18-hour days, she collapsed in her office. And decided it was time to focus on herself more. Enter: Thrive Global. Aka the company Arianna started to help people reset, recharge, and get a lot more sleep. On the couch, Arianna talks to us about being a proud outfit repeater, the time she interviewed Skimm B for a job, and putting your phone to bed. Literally.

Michele Promaulayko fell in love with magazines as a teenager. Since then, she’s gone from dreaming about magazines...to building a career in publishing, working at places like Women’s Health and Yahoo Health. Today, she’s the editor in chief of Cosmopolitan. Meaning teenage Michele is very happy. Oh, and she’s trained in transcendental meditation, too. NBD. On the couch, she talks to us about when male models ruled the world, managing up, and navigating how her industry has changed over the years.

Growing this B was not easy. Translation: we ask our family for advice all the time. In this episode, we talk to our dads about some of the things that we’ve learned from them along the way. And we play a game. It's inspired by the new Netflix dramedy "Like Father," about a father-daughter relationship. Listen in here.

Melanie has a personal rule for herself: if she hears about something three times, from three different people, she has to try it. That rule has led her to new books, restaurants, and… SoulCycle. Which she did while she was a VP at Equinox. Melanie eventually came on as Soul’s COO, and helped grow the biz from a few NYC studios...to more than 80 around the world. Now, she’s the company’s CEO. And yes, she taps it back multiple times every week. On the couch, she talks to us about taking over a community she didn’t create, managing instructors’ brands within SoulCycle’s, and having a millennial mentor.

Katrina Lake spent the first part of her career watching other entrepreneurs pitch their companies to her VC firm. But then she decided she wanted to try it out herself. So she went to Harvard Business School and started her own company. Today, you know it as the multibillion-dollar online styling service Stitch Fix. And when she took Stitch Fix public in 2017, Katrina became the youngest woman to lead a company to IPO. Ever. NBD. On the couch, she talks to us about deciding to go to business school, hiring and managing a team, and not taking her dad’s advice.

Mindy Grossman graduated college at 20 and was on her way to law school. But then she changed her mind – so she broke her engagement, packed her bags, and moved to New York City. Luckily, that gamble worked out: today, she’s on Forbes’ list of the most powerful women in the world. Over her career, Mindy’s headed up companies like Chaps Ralph Lauren, the Home Shopping Network, and NIke. In 2017, she took her talents to Weight Watchers. On the couch, she talks to us about building teams, giving tough feedback, and stalking your business idols – politely. Oh yeah, and what it’s like to disagree with Oprah in the boardroom. 

Tyler Haney is the CEO and founder of Outdoor Voices. Today, you know OV as one of your favorite brands to wear to the gym...or to walk your dog around the block. Tyler got the idea for her company when she was on a jog. Since then, she’s grown it into a multi-million dollar national brand. And this week, Tyler is our guest on the couch. She talks to us about turning an investor's no into a yes, learning from mentors, and hiring passionate people. Leggings, on.

Our guest this week is Shan-Lyn Ma. She started her company Zola in 2013, after she realized that buying wedding gifts is fun for...pretty much nobody. Flash forward to now, and hundreds of thousands of people use Zola to register and shop for wedding gifts every year. On the couch, Shan-Lyn talks to us about building her team, not taking no for an answer, and convincing male investors to take Zola seriously.

Ariel Kaye's career in home goods started out as a side hustle. But in 2013, she decided to leave a stable career in advertising and turn that side hustle... into her main hustle. She called it Parachute. These days, if you're like us, you might go to sleep and wake up in Ariel’s products every day. On the couch, Ariel talks to us about staying zen, using her advertising background to grow her brand, and making sure her employees have time for themselves. Oh, and big news: the day we released this episode, Parachute announced that they received $30 million in Series C funding.  

Our guest this week is Linnea Roberts. She’s the founder and CEO of Gingerbread Capital, the venture capital firm she started after she ‘flunked’ retirement. Inspired by her mom Ginger, her company is all about investing in female-founded companies. Including theSkimm (thanks, Linnea). On the couch, she talks to us about making it in the finance world, finding a support system, and (figuratively) winning an Academy Award.

On the couch, Gregg Renfrew talked to us about being a manager. And how it’s not exactly her favorite thing to do. We can relate. Figuring out how to manage people was something we had to learn along the way. This week, we’re answering some of our go-to interview questions about management mistakes, bad advice, and how we made failure a part of our company culture.

Gregg Renfrew is all about side hustles. On her resume: everything from starting a cleaning company in college...to launching a biz to make dress shopping less awful for bridesmaids. These days, she’s the founder and CEO of Beautycounter. Aka the company that makes beauty and skincare products, minus all the harmful chemicals. On the couch, she talks to us about tapping into the female millennial community, learning how to be a manager, and trusting her gut.

This week at theSkimm is all about your wallet. On the couch, Hope Taitz talked to us about how women can control their own destiny...by controlling their cash money. Also happening this week: intern season. On this episode, we answer money q’s from our interns, like the difference between rounds of funding, WTF ‘diversifying revenue’ means, and when to take risks with your paycheck.

This week at theSkimm we're talking about your wallet. So our guest on the couch is CEO and Managing Partner of ELY Capital Hope Taitz. Hope invests in consumer tech – including theSkimm – and she’s got a rep for being no-BS in the boardroom. She talks to us about controlling your own purse strings, raising her kids to be courageous, and making sure maternity leave policies work for everyone. Oh, and the ELY in ELY Capital? It stands for ‘Elmo Loves You’. She'll explain why.

This week, Christie Hefner talked to us about her time at Playboy. And all the ‘WTF moments’ that come with being in charge of a company at 29 years old. Here are our tips on how to move up at work and how to hit snooze on imposter syndrome.

Christie Hefner is the daughter of, you guessed it, Hugh Hefner. She spent 20 years as chairman and CEO of Playboy. Making her the longest-serving female in that position. Ever. This week, she talks to us about taking Playboy digital, making management decisions, and getting over imposter syndrome – all while working alongside her dad.

Melissa Ben-Ishay built a brand using her superpowers. This week, we're talking about how to use your own and how to build a brand around your passion. Without getting tired of it. Cape, on.

This week’s guest puts the Melissa in Baked by Melissa. Melissa Ben-Ishay started her company when she was just 24 years old. And built it from a bite-sized storefront in Manhattan...to a nationwide e-commerce business. She talks to us about getting fired, working side-by-side with her brother, leveraging her superpowers, and all things cupcakes, of course.

Our guests this week – Today Show's Hoda Kotb, Savannah Guthrie, and Libby Leist – work prettttty closely together. We're sharing our tips on how to find the Hoda to your Savannah. And how to share success with the women on your team. 

Hoda, Savannah, and Libby are the all-female dream team of morning TV. Hear them talk about making history at NBC, getting nervous before big interviews, and why there's way more than one path to success in life. PS: Hoda had to leave halfway through to, you know, host another hour of TV. NBD. 

Joanna Coles says she doesn't cry at the office. But for some of us, it's kind of a thing. We're sharing some tips we've learned to keep it on the down low.

We're ending our first season with a force of nature, Joanna Coles. She’s the Chief Content Officer of Hearst Magazines. And author of “Love Rules: How to Find a Real Relationship in a Digital World.” She talks to us about why it’s more fun being in charge, what makes her feel insecure, and how apps have changed the dating world. Check it out, and we’ll be back with more soon. 

Things we can relate to: choosing the wrong major, wanting to change careers, not having the “right" experience for a new job. Today, we’re talking about how to sell yourself in order to make a career leap. 

ClassPass is a monthly fitness subscription service in over 50 cities worldwide. But this is no overnight success story. Founder and Executive Chairman Payal Kadakia talks to us about the versions of the brand that failed, and how it evolved into what we know today. In case that wasn't enough, she's also the Founder and Artistic Director of Sa Dance Company. Because hustle.

Meet our Bonus Episodes. Every Thursday, Carly and Danielle will answer your career questions, share their stories, and give you tips for finding success. Listen through to the end to find out how to be featured in the next ep. Our first one is about turning your side hustle into a business. Check it out. 

Pinch us, please. We sat down with Sara Blakely, aka the no. 1 person we’ve looked up to since the day we started theSkimm. She’s the Founder and CEO of Spanx – the billion-dollar shapewear company that she built off an idea and $5,000 in savings. She also started the Sara Blakely Foundation to help women in education, entrepreneurship, and the arts. Oh and very recently, she joined us as a minority investor of theSkimm. As we said, pinch us. 

This week, we’re talking to Jenny Fleiss. She co-founded Rent the Runway – the company that lets you rent designer outfits without having to drop some serious cash. She’s now the co-founder and CEO of Walmart’s tech incubator, Code Eight. Jenny talked to us about everything from being risk adverse to her worst day of work.

Our guest this week is making headlines. She just stepped down as President and CEO of A+E Networks. And is taking over as the CEO of Vice Media. Nancy's been on Fortune's 50 Most Powerful Women in Business and Hollywood Reporter's Power 100 List. She talked with us about her management style, her opinions on business school, and why her bathroom is her biggest work perk. 

Leandra Medine started her popular fashion website – Man Repeller – as a junior in college. She's a staple on Forbes' 30 Under 30 List. Is the author of "Man Repeller: Seeking Love. Finding Overalls." And provides daily entertainment to her audience through her blog and social media. Today, she opens up to us about self-doubt, the struggles of running a business, and what outfit screams 'I'm having a bad day.' 

Warning: This episode may cause mild to severe inspiration. This week, we're sitting down with a legend in the finance world, Sallie Krawcheck. She's the co-founder and CEO of Ellevest, the digital platform working to close the gender investing gap. Before that, she had top jobs at Citigroup and Merrill Lynch. She's also the author of "Own It: The Power of Women At Work." She talks with us about working in a man's world, why women lag behind financially, and getting fired. Twice. 

Get ready to be inspired. Today's guest is Reshma Saujani, Founder and CEO of Girls Who Code – the non-profit working to close the gender gap in technology. Before starting Girls Who Code, Reshma was the first Indian-American woman to run for Congress. She's also the author of multiple books, including "Women Who Don't Wait in Line." We had a no BS conversation with her about today's economy, growing up with immigrant parents, and the jobs you take to pay off student loans. 

Tina Brown made her name as the legendary editor of Vanity Fair. Now, she's the Founder and CEO of Tina Brown Live Media, which puts on the annual Women in the World Summit. She's also the author of the recently released book "The Vanity Fair Diaries." This week, Tina talks to us about imposter syndrome, working with Harvey Weinstein, and her fascination with Ivanka Trump. It's a must-listen.

For the very first episode, Carly and Danielle sit down with Whitney Wolfe Herd. She's the founder and CEO of Bumble – the dating app that lets women make the first move. The company has since expanded into Bumble BFF and Bumble Bizz. Today, Whitney talks to us about the fallout after leaving Tinder, why it's good to fail, and what inspired her to build something of her own. 

Meet our revamped career podcast, 9 to 5ish with theSkimm. We're bringing you the work advice you need, from women who’ve been there. Every week, join the co-founders and co-CEOs of theSkimm, Carly Zakin and Danielle Weisberg, as they help you get what you want out of your career by talking to the smartest leaders they know. New episodes drop every Wednesdays, starting July 21st. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss a single ep.