In this soulful episode, I had the privilege of sitting down with Carla Pennington, the powerhouse behind some of television's most successful daytime talk shows like Dr. Phil and The Doctors. With an incredible career in producing groundbreaking TV series, she’s seen it all, from managing budgets and staff to creatively pulling together shows that impact millions.
In our conversation, we explored the often unseen world of television production, where Carla shared the secrets of how she made it all come together, from managing teams of talented producers to juggling multiple responsibilities on the fly. As someone who’s led teams through complex, high-pressure environments, she offered a refreshing perspective on the art of delegation, the importance of knowing who thrives in specific roles, and the deep satisfaction of watching others grow.
But beyond the career successes, Carla’s story is a testament to resilience and courage. She opened up about the key risks she took in her journey, like taking a leap of faith to move from local news to primetime, and the pivotal moment when she decided to say yes to a project that was risky but aligned with her passion. Carla’s story also reminds us that it’s not just about achieving success...it’s about staying grounded, trusting your instincts, and embracing your unique journey!
Key Takeaways:
Trust Your Gut and Say Yes to Opportunities: Whether it's leaving a steady job for a new opportunity or taking on a challenging project, trusting your instincts and saying yes to the right things can open doors that you never imagined.
The Power of Delegation: Recognizing and nurturing your team’s unique gifts is crucial. Knowing who is suited for what and allowing them to stay in their lane leads to success and growth...for both individuals and the entire project.
Risks and Leaps of Faith: Carla’s career teaches us that big leaps often require risk. From making up a job to get to Los Angeles, to following her gut despite uncertainty, Carla’s story is a reminder that we must take calculated risks if we want to evolve and grow in our careers.
Give Yourself Grace: We’re often our own harshest critics. Carla shared the importance of cutting yourself some slack and remembering that you’re doing your best. The road may be tough, but the key is showing up and doing the work with a kind heart for yourself.
The Power of a Supportive Network: Surrounding yourself with the right people - especially those who root for you - is key to navigating challenges and staying grounded. Carla’s network of talented women is a testament to the strength of building connections that lift you up.
Enjoy the Journey: Life and work should be fulfilling, and Carla encourages us to focus on finding joy in what we do. If you’re not having fun, it might be time to reassess. We’re here to thrive, not just survive!
Carla’s story isn’t just one of professional success—it’s a heart-centered reminder that career fulfillment comes when we embrace risk, adapt to challenges, and trust ourselves. Her journey is proof that when you follow your passion and stick to your values, the rest will fall into place.
Listen in for a dose of inspiration and practical wisdom that can help guide your own journey. The sky’s the limit when you trust yourself and take the leap.
Want to connect with Kasi?
Instagram: @CareerCoachKasi
https://www.instagram.com/careercoachkasi/
Email: kasib@careerquestinc.com
Connect with Carla at:
IG: carlapennington
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlapennington
