Valerie Jarrett on Making White House History

Valerie Jarrett, CEO and a member of the board of directors of the Obama Foundation, joins us to discuss how she became the longest-serving advisor to any US President. From law school to local politics to a vital role in the highest office of government, Valerie’s career is exemplary and—as evidenced by the Obama Presidential Center that opened just weeks ago in Chicago—continues to make history.

0:00 - Introduction

2:22 - Obama Presidential Center Opening

5:29 - Growing Up in Iran & Chicago

10:00 - Strong Working Parent Examples

12:38 - Working Mom Guilt

14:40 - "This Must Be Someone Else's Life"

17:21 - Meeting Michelle Robinson & Barack Obama

22:35 - Finding Purpose in Public Service

25:49 - Becoming President Obama’s Senior Advisor 

30:50 - What Does a Senior Advisor Do?

35:59 - Fighting For Gender Equity

45:21 - Running For Office

46:34 -Defining Success After The White House

48:50 - Can I Make a Difference?

52:07 - The Obama Foundation Impact

55:50 - Advice for Working in Public Service

57:29  - Would You Rather?

On Sali: Argent Two-Button Blazer, Crewneck Tank, and Soho Trouser
Hosted by Sali Christeson @salichristeson
Produced by Gina Marinelli @ginaalilbit
Edited by Ryan Woldoff @c__biz
Theme Song by Karina DePiano @sheplaysdepiano & Melanie Nyema @melanienyema
Recorded at Podstream Studio @podstreamstudio