In celebration of Women’s History Month, TODAY.com engaged in conversations with Savannah Guthrie, Jenna Bush Hager, Dylan Dreyer, and Laura Jarrett, exploring the career paths that have shaped their remarkable journeys in media.
Women in journalism often encounter significant challenges on their way to becoming anchors or hosts. However, thanks to pioneering figures like Barbara Walters, Diane Sawyer, and Oprah Winfrey, it has become increasingly common to see women in prominent roles behind the desk and in front of the camera—an impressive shift from the landscape of the 1970s.
It wasn’t until 2006 that Katie Couric etched her name in history as the first female anchor of a major network’s evening news program. As a veteran anchor of TODAY herself, Katie Couric is a journalism trailblazer.
For many aspiring broadcasters, the journey involves overcoming rejection and showing unwavering perseverance. However, crucial opportunities often lead to the realization of their dreams.
As successful women in today’s media landscape, Savannah, Jenna, Dylan, and Laura reflect on their personal journeys, sharing key moments that transformed their careers and, ultimately, their lives.
Savannah Guthrie: ‘Taking Risks Fueled My Journey’
Savannah Guthrie has spent nearly 14 years with TODAY, amassing an impressive list of accomplishments. She has covered multiple Olympic Games, interviewed numerous celebrities, and reported on significant events throughout the last decade.
Savannah attributes her successful career to some pivotal decisions, including a major leap into law school. This choice unexpectedly altered her life’s trajectory.
“That was my first significant leap into the unknown,” she shared. “Taking risks and making unexpected moves have been crucial to my journey.”
Choosing to pursue law meant leaving her television career behind—a daunting decision that required immense courage. “I stepped away from a comfortable path to explore what lies ahead,” she recalled.
Savannah passed the Arizona Bar Exam with the highest score and ultimately realized her true passion for television. This second leap of faith solidified her belief in the power of risk-taking.
“Key moments of taking bold chances have paid off tremendously. Stepping outside comfort zones is vital,” Savannah emphasizes.
Laura Jarrett: ‘Persistence Opened Doors’
Laura Jarrett, senior legal correspondent for NBC News, transitioned from practicing law in a corporate setting to following her dream in television. Initially working as a “low-level associate,” she felt unfulfilled.
With encouragement from her husband and mentorship from Savannah Guthrie, Laura set out to explore opportunities in TV news, overcoming countless rejections along the way.
Her persistence paid off when CNN offered her a morning slot that became her launching pad in the industry.
“That single ‘yes’ was pivotal,” Laura reflects. “It opened the doors to numerous opportunities that I hadn’t even imagined.”
Laura credits Savannah’s exceptional work ethic as an inspiration that drives her and her colleagues to excel in their roles, empowering young girls who look up to them.
Dylan Dreyer: ‘Embrace Every Opportunity’
Meteorologist and co-host of the 3rd Hour of TODAY, Dylan Dreyer reflects on her passion for meteorology, undeterred by being one of only two women in her Rutgers University program.
Dylan embraced challenges head-on, navigating the competitive landscape of broadcasting with determination. Her breakthrough came through discovering those who recognized her potential.
“Finding someone who believes in you can ignite a passion you didn’t know you had,” she stated.
Throughout her career progression, attending voice coaching and staying true to herself has remained paramount to Dylan.
“Being authentic will attract those who appreciate you for who you are,” she advises. “Saying ‘yes’ to opportunities, even unconventional ones, has defined my journey.”
Jenna Bush Hager: ‘Stepping Outside My Comfort Zone’
As a descendant of U.S. Presidents, Jenna Bush Hager has a historic legacy; however, she has crafted her own narrative on TODAY since joining as a correspondent in 2009.
Her TV career began with a “yes” moment when she agreed to promote her book on TODAY, paving the way for new opportunities.
“That leap into unfamiliar territory allowed me to explore the potential of a television career,” Jenna shared.
Through her role as co-host of TODAY with Hoda & Jenna and the successful book club initiative, Read With Jenna, she has left a joyful impact on daytime television.
Jenna aspires to create a legacy of joy for audiences, stating, “I hope that viewers walk away from our show feeling a touch brighter.”
