This episode features a woman whose talent has no limitations: award-winning actress, entrepreneur, producer, women’s advocate, and New York Times bestselling author Reese Witherspoon!

Over the years, we’ve had the chance to see her shine on screen, as a producer behind the curtain, as an entrepreneur, and today in conversation with award-winning journalist Lisa Ling.

We will explore what Reese is doing to elevate women’s stories, change the narrative for women and help chart a new path forward. Part actionable tips and part inspiration, you will walk away empowered to navigate your career, take risks and find your purpose. 

This conversation was originally recorded at the December 2022 Massachusetts Conference for Women.

This episode of Women Amplified is proudly sponsored by Cisco.

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Reese Witherspoon & Lisa Ling Episode Transcript

Ling:

Well, I just want to launch into things because we all know that you are a hugely successful actress and producer and entrepreneur, and those things don’t always go hand-in-hand. Not all incredibly successful Hollywood actresses are also successful entrepreneurs. So I want to just ask you what you think the Reese Witherspoon secret sauce is? What are some of the essential qualities that you think have contributed to your success?

Reese Witherspoon:

Well, first of all, thank you for saying that. If I think really about my early beginnings and where my motivation comes from, I definitely think, I grew up in a military family, so there was very much a sensibility, a sense of duty, of giving back. You know, about being on time and being professional and being responsible to people. So that was a really good early foundation for me. And also, my mother was a nurse for 40 years and an educator at a university. And her dedication to her job, her love and passion for her job, really ignited in me this work ethic that I think has stayed with me through the years.

Lisa Ling:

So you would say work ethic has probably been the driver behind all of it?

Reese Witherspoon:

For sure. And I think also a passion for what I do. Even from when I was a really little girl, five years old,