Shonda Rhimes: Women Need To Brag More - Call Her Daddy Recap

Podcast: Call Her Daddy

Published: 2025-10-08

Duration: 1 hr 23 min

Summary

Shonda Rhimes emphasizes the importance of women advocating for themselves and celebrating their achievements, arguing that such actions should be normalized and embraced in society.

What Happened

In this episode of Call Her Daddy, host Alex Cooper welcomes the iconic Shonda Rhimes to discuss her remarkable career and the release of the 10th Anniversary Edition of her book, Year of Yes. Rhimes reflects on the monumental milestone of Grey's Anatomy's 450th episode, expressing disbelief at how integral the show has become to her life. She shares how the series, which started years ago, continues to resonate with both her and the audience despite its long run.

The conversation shifts to Rhimes' personal life, where she reveals her move to Connecticut during the pandemic. Unlike her years in Los Angeles, where she felt the weight of public recognition and expectations, Rhimes finds joy in the anonymity of her new home. She appreciates the normalcy of grocery shopping without being recognized and how it allows her to focus on everyday life without the pressures of her Hollywood persona. Her candidness about her experiences in both places sheds light on the different ways public figures navigate their identities and relationships.

Key Insights

• The significance of self-advocacy for women
• Shonda Rhimes' experiences with anonymity in Connecticut
• The cultural impact of Grey's Anatomy
• The importance of celebrating personal milestones

Key Questions Answered

What is the significance of Shonda Rhimes' Year of Yes?

Shonda Rhimes discusses her book, Year of Yes, as a reflection of her journey towards self-advocacy and empowerment. The book encourages women to embrace their achievements and be vocal about their accomplishments, a theme that resonates throughout her career.

How has Grey's Anatomy evolved over its 450 episodes?

Rhimes reflects on the journey of Grey's Anatomy, noting how it has become a foundational part of her life and career. She expresses amazement at reaching the 450th episode, highlighting how the show has changed and grown while maintaining its core themes.

What prompted Shonda Rhimes to move to Connecticut?

During the pandemic, Rhimes moved to Connecticut seeking a different lifestyle. She shares that this transition has allowed her to experience life away from the Hollywood spotlight, where people are less focused on her fame and more on normal interactions.

What does Shonda Rhimes think about women bragging?

Rhimes emphasizes that women should embrace bragging about their successes, as it is often viewed negatively. She advocates for normalizing self-promotion and celebrating achievements as a means of empowerment.

How does living in Connecticut differ from living in Los Angeles for Shonda Rhimes?

Rhimes describes her life in Connecticut as liberating, as it offers her a break from the constant attention she faced in Los Angeles. She enjoys the simplicity of everyday activities, such as grocery shopping, without the pressures of her celebrity status.