"She Pivots" Podcast: Women Who Dare to Pivot In Their Careers

 The She Pivots podcast was in the news this week because this show has become part of the iHeartPodcast Network.

Yet, the real story for listeners is that She Pivots is an ear-worthy podcast that spotlights women who dare to "pivot" out of one career and into another.

Now an iHeartPodcast, the award-winning podcast, She Pivots will kick off the new partnership with actor Vanessa Hudgens as the guest.

 She Pivots is aimed at redefining women’s success stories. In a world where conventional notions of achievement often revolve around linear career paths, the show spotlights the real-life experiences of remarkable women who have shown that success is not defined by a one-size-fits-all formula. New episodes will be released weekly on Wednesdays and feature inspiring women who have gone through life-altering pivots and perspective shifts.

Host and creator Emily Tisch Sussman gives listeners a peek inside the lives of powerhouse women with interviews from Vice President Kamala Harris, Brooke Shields, Allyson Felix, Priyanka Chopra, and Bobbi Brown, while also debuting never-before-heard stories from guests like trans Navy Veteran Paula M. Neira or fundamentalist cult survivor, Susi Massey. For Season Three, She Pivots will bring together a unique collection of interesting and influential women to tell the stories of the personal moments that lead up to their pivot, creating a space for women to embrace the full spectrum of their experiences.

Guests for season three include actress turned entrepreneur Vanessa Hudgens, ballet dancer Misty Copeland, fashion designer Rebecca Minkoff, “Moms Demand Action” founder Shannon Watts and more. The podcast will shed light on the recognition that pivots are not setbacks but stepping stones to new success. 

“She Pivots is changing the cultural conversation around how women talk about and think about their careers," said Sussman. “I am excited to join forces with the No. 1 podcast publisher, iHeartPodcasts, and continue to make a show that inspires and empowers women to trust their instincts and skills. I want women to know that everything you have done has given you the toolkit you need to make your pivot. You have everything you need inside of you, and I can’t wait to showcase the stories of women who have proven just that in season three.”

Sussman started She Pivots after leaving her decade-long career in DC politics and having three kids in just four years. Walking away from the career she loved - a career that gave her purpose and sense of value - created a deep sense of loss. That’s why Sussman decided to start She Pivots to hear stories from other women who experienced a significant, personal change that led them to reimagine their careers and lives. She has been able to redefine what success means to her and has made it her mission to give permission to other women to do the same. 

Sussman is dedicated to championing causes that support women, education and the arts in her New York community. She is a co-owner of Gotham FC, the 2023 NWSL champions, and has produced Broadway hits including Shucked and How to Dance in Ohio. She is a founding member of her local Moms Demand Action chapter and has served on the board of the Ethical Culture Fieldston School and the Ross School. She is a member of the Artists Council at the Whitney Museum of American Art and the Director's Circle at The Church. She is a member of the New York Bar, earning her J.D. from Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law.

One of my favorite episodes is the July 21, 2023 show with U.S. Olympic runner Allyson Felix, who's not afraid to dissect the pay inequity directed her way. She's outspoken and insightful. 

Sussman is an excellent podcast host and interviewer. She doesn't pander, works hard to draw out her guests beyond the usual platitudes, and knows instinctively how to craft a compelling narrative.

Check out She Pivots. Yes, I know that some will say it's a "women's podcast." However, the show is really about having the courage and fortitude to make a change in our lives. Most of us have dreams. Too few of us actually try to do something about those dreams.