
Call Her Daddy
"I don't believe in writers block because you don't really write until you're you don't believe in writers block." — Shonda Rhimes
"Men brag and women hide." — Shonda Rhimes
"The hardest part is just jumping into it the very act of doing the thing that you're afraid of undoes the fear and that is such a freeing feeling to realize like the worst thing that can happen is is that it doesn't go well but then it's already happened and that's the worst thing so and you'll handle it." — Shonda Rhimes
In this insightful conversation, Shonda Rhimes, a titan of the television industry, opens up about her journey from a shy aspiring writer to a globally recognized showrunner. She discusses her early career, including writing for films like "Crossroads" and "The Princess Diaries 2," and her pivotal decision to move into television, which led to the creation of iconic shows like "Grey's Anatomy" and "Scandal." Rhimes emphasizes the importance of embracing challenges and learning to say "yes" to opportunities that push beyond one's comfort zone, drawing from her "Year of Yes" memoir. She shares her experiences navigating the complexities of Hollywood, including dealing with network pushback on sensitive storylines and the evolution of her leadership style.
Rhimes also delves into her personal life, discussing her move to Connecticut for a more balanced existence and her experiences as a mother. She candidly addresses the challenges women face in celebrating their accomplishments and the societal pressures that can lead them to downplay their success. A recurring theme is the evolution of her perspective on marriage, shifting from a belief that it wasn't for her to an openness to the possibility, driven by her increased self-confidence and comfort in her own skin. She highlights the profound impact of her children and her journey to motherhood, emphasizing the importance of meeting people where they are and fostering their individual growth.
The conversation concludes with Rhimes reflecting on her legacy, expressing a desire to create space for more women to succeed without facing the same isolation she experienced. She shares her current passion for golf, finding it a unique hobby that allows for mental escape and a sense of accomplishment, even in imperfection. Looking ahead, she expresses excitement for her next creative chapter, eager to delve into new stories and continue shaping narratives that resonate with audiences.