Nancy Daniels

TLC weathered its share of controversy this year, but Daniels continues to prove herself an agile leader, finding inspiring stories to share with the TLC audience that focus on families, relatable characters and life transformations that represent the network’s brand. She’s also a card-carrying optimist. “It is hard to succeed in television—we work in a business where failure is the norm,” she says. “But you need to still get excited by that next project and to be able to imagine the possibilities.”

Most important aspect in mentoring?

In mentoring it is important to give generously your time and attention, and to realize it is not just about telling someone how to grow and succeed, it is by being a good example.

What/who inspires you at work? What/who inspires you outside the office?

At work I’m inspired by optimistic creatives.  It is hard to succeed in television–we work in a business where failure is the norm.  But you need to still get excited by that next project and to be able to imagine the possibilities. Outside the office I’m inspired by people who work to make other people’s lives better – whether it be working at a non-profit or endlessly volunteering for an important cause – I admire people that are making a difference in the world.

Best trick for maintaining personal-professional life balance?

Is there a trick for maintaining life balance?  Will someone tell me what it is?

Favorite trick for unwinding?

I used to unwind by watching Jon Stewart (on The Daily Show) every night and I’m still sad that he moved on.  However, I’ve been warming up to The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.