In 2016, former Fox News host Gretchen Carlson made a bold move that transformed the conversation around workplace harassment. After enduring years of mistreatment, she filed a lawsuit against Fox News Chairman Roger Ailes for sexual harassment. Despite the immense personal and professional risks, this courageous act helped spark the #MeToo movement, giving a voice to countless women who had suffered in silence. Now, through her nonprofit, Gretchen is working to dismantle the silencing mechanisms that allow harassment to thrive in the workplace. In this episode, Gretchen joins Ilana to share how her painful experiences fueled her mission to create safer, more inclusive environments for all.

Gretchen Carlson is a journalist, author, and women’s rights advocate. As the co-founder of Lift Our Voices, a nonprofit combating forced arbitration and toxic workplace environments, her advocacy has led to significant legislative changes.

In this episode, Ilana and Gretchen will discuss:

(00:00) Introduction 

(02:15) The Decision to File a Sexual Harassment Lawsuit

(04:42) Why Most Victims Struggle to Speak Out

(11:40) The Role of a Support System in Tough Times

(15:19) Learning to Advocate for Herself as a Child

(17:57) From Violin Prodigy to Miss America

(23:37) Building a Thick Skin as Miss America

(26:47) Facing Sexual Assault Early in Her Career

(30:00) How to Foster Safe and Inclusive Workplaces

(37:11) Balancing Ambition, Family, and Career in TV

(42:19) Creating Change Through Reforms and Advocacy

(48:24) Overcoming Rejection in Nonprofits

Gretchen Carlson is a journalist, author, and women’s rights advocate. As the co-founder of Lift Our Voices, a nonprofit combating forced arbitration and toxic workplace environments, her advocacy has led to significant legislative changes, including the Ending Forced Arbitration of Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment Act. The bestselling author of Getting Real and Be Fierce, Gretchen was named one of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in 2017.

Connect with Gretchen:

Gretchen’s Website: gretchencarlson.com 

Gretchen’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/gretchen-carlson 

Resources Mentioned:

Gretchen’s Book, Getting Real:  https://www.amazon.com/Getting-Real-Gretchen-Carlson/dp/0143109243 

Gretchen’s Book, Be Fierce: Stop Harassment and Take Your Power Back: https://www.amazon.com/Be-Fierce-Stop-Harassment-Power/dp/1478992174 

Lift Our Voices: liftourvoices.org