Sheryl Lee Ralph on Dreams, Determination, and Defying the Odds

Sheryl Lee Ralph on Dreams, Determination, and Defying the Odds

Author: Hoda Kotb, TODAY October 15, 2025 Duration: 46:39
Sheryl Lee Ralph is an Emmy-winning actress, singer, and advocate whose radiant spirit and decades-long career, from "Dreamgirls" to "Abbott Elementary," have inspired generations. Sheryl opens up to Hoda about choosing joy as her “strong suit,” the resilience that carried her through rejection and reinvention, and how she learned to believe in herself even when others didn’t. She reflects on lessons from her parents, a surprising run-in with Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and why following her own path turned out to be the most rewarding part of her journey.

In a world that often feels full, the act of creating room-for reflection, for change, for breath-is a radical kind of strength. That’s the quiet heart of Making Space with Hoda Kotb. Here, Hoda moves beyond the morning show desk to engage in a different kind of conversation, one focused on the resilience and compassion that shape a meaningful life. Each episode is built around a simple, powerful question: where do you draw your strength? The answers unfold through intimate dialogues with people from all walks of life whose stories Hoda genuinely admires. These aren't interviews about achievement, but testimonies about human experience. Listeners will hear how others have navigated personal challenges, found unexpected joy, or rebuilt after loss, extracting practical lessons on making space for whatever you might be seeking right now-be it better mental health, a new fitness goal, a cultural perspective, or simply a moment of peace. The tone is warm, curious, and deeply personal, as if you're listening in on a conversation between friends who aren't afraid of the big topics. This podcast lives at the intersection of society, culture, and self-improvement, but it feels like a personal guide. You won't find quick fixes or loud promises here. Instead, you'll find a steady companion for your own journey, leaving each talk feeling subtly stronger and inspired to carve out your own space for growth. It’s a reminder that making space isn't about adding more, but about uncovering what was already there, waiting for room to breathe.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Making Space with Hoda Kotb
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