Sheryl Lee Ralph Won’t Give Up (And Neither Should You)  

In this episode, Sheryl Lee Ralph joins us to share her inspiring journey to “making it” in her 60s. In a wide-ranging interview, we talk about coping with political anxiety, speaking up for marginalized voices, and staying resilient in tough times. Listeners will walk away inspired by Sheryl’s story – and feeling empowered to write their own story on their terms.


Sheryl Lee Ralph

Sheryl Lee Ralph

With an acclaimed career spanning over three decades, SHERYL LEE RALPH has become a staple in the entertainment industry. Getting her start in theatre, Sheryl originated the role of Deena Jones in the legendary Broadway musical Dreamgirls which earned her Best Actress nods for Tony and Drama Desk Awards. In the decades since she has accumulated hundreds of credits on television, on the big screen, and on the stage. And today, you may recognize her as Abbott Elementary’s Ms. Howard, a role that’s earned her a half-dozen award nominations and wins.

Celeste Headlee

Celeste Headlee

Celeste Headlee is a communication and human nature expert, and an award-winning journalist. She is a professional speaker, and also the author of Speaking of Race: Why Everybody Needs to Talk About Racism—and How to Do ItDo NothingHeard Mentality, and We Need to Talk. In her twenty-year career in public radio, she has been the executive producer of On Second Thought at Georgia Public Radio, and anchored programs including Tell Me MoreTalk of the NationAll Things Considered, and Weekend Edition. She also served as cohost of the national morning news show The Takeaway from PRI and WNYC, and anchored presidential coverage in 2012 for PBS World Channel. Headlee’s TEDx talk sharing ten ways to have a better conversation has over twenty million total views to date. @CelesteHeadlee


Additional Resources

More from Women Amplified

More from the Conferences for Women

  • Join Oprah Winfrey, Gloria Steinem, and thousands of women around the country this Women’s History Month at the virtual National Conference for Women.
  • Check out the FREE Career Connections Program from the Conferences for Women for expert tips, connections, and career opportunities at companies that support women.