As President of Nickelodeon, Gerry Laybourne turned a tiny children's network into a multi-billion dollar television empire. Later in her career, Gerry was inspired to co-found a new network for women, Oxygen Media.

Join us on the season premiere of The Road to Why, where we learn how understanding the perspectives of the younger generation helped to shape the trajectory of an entire industry. 

Gerry speaks about her innovative approach to leadership at Nickelodeon, raising entrepreneurial children, and giving kids a voice in family discussions on wealth and philanthropy. She also discusses her “joyous work-life imbalance,” being a female senior executive in the 1980s, and her current focus as co-founder of Day One Early Learning Community, among other topics.

We’ll also find out:

(2:56) — What were some of the key influences in Gerry’s upbringing that helped shape her values?

(5:10) — How influential was early television on Gerry’s career?

(6:09) — What led Gerry to work in television?

(12:02) — How did Gerry change the culture at Nickelodeon?

(14:08) — How did Gerry create programming that kids of the ’80s could relate to?

(15:47) — How did Gerry’s partnership with Oprah develop?

(20:19) — How did Gerry’s career influence the professional lives of her children?

(23:45) — What drives Gerry to build, create and inspire others?

(25:52) — What was Gerry’s experience in the television industry as a woman in the ’80s?

(27:54) — What are ‘Global Women’s Mentoring Walks,’ and how did Gerry found the initiative?

(29:52) — How did Gerry make the transition from children’s television to children’s education?

(32:40) — In Gerry’s view, what makes a good board member?

(34:55) — How does Gerry approach conversations on wealth and legacy with her children?