Dec 14, 2022
Jennifer Sey is an American author, filmmaker, business executive, and retired artistic gymnast. She was a seven-time member of the U.S. Women's National Team and was the 1986 U.S. Women's All-Around National Champion. Her first memoir, Chalked Up, was released in 2008 and detailed the coaching cruelty inflicted on children in gymnastics. Sey also produced the 2020 Emmy-award-winning documentary film Athlete A, which connected the crimes of Larry Nassar to the broader abuses in the Olympic movement. Sey began working at Levi Strauss & Co. in 1999, rising to Chief Marketing Officer and then Brand President until, in January 2022, she was asked to resign because of her vocal opposition to the extended closure of San Francisco’s public schools. She is a mother of four and now resides in Denver with her family.
I’m so happy to be joined by Jennifer on The Wow Factor this week — she’s with me to share how her unusual childhood as an elite gymnast impacted on her career and leadership style as an adult. She discusses when her interest in making films was sparked and why it is so important to be able to tell a story that resonates with your audience. Jennifer is also candid about the events that led to her stepping down as CMO at Levi Strauss & Co and why it is integral to her philosophy as a leader to be authentic.
“Personal stories can really create understanding and empathy.” - Jennifer Sey
“Great ideas can come from anywhere. You need open debate and dissent and lots of talking to get to the really great ideas.” - Jennifer Sey
“My job is to create the vision and help make good decisions.” - Jennifer Sey
This Week on The Wow Factor:
Jennifer Sey’s Word of Wisdom:
If you can find a place to be your unique self and bring your unique gifts to bear on the work at hand — that's a place for you as a leader.
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