Episode 68: Suzanne Somers

An interview with Suzanne Somers about how she’s had a sustainable career since the 1960s, the habits that have had the biggest impact on her heath, how she handles obstacles, how people can age better and her best career advice.

Welcome to the 68th episode of 5 Questions with Dan Schawbel. As your host, my goal is to curate the best advice from the world’s smartest and most interesting people by asking them just 5 questions.

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This episodes guest:

My guest today is actress, author and singer, Suzanne Somers. Born in San Bruno, California, Suzanne attended the San Francisco College for Women, then got married and had a child at age 19. A year after her divorce, she became a prize model on the syndicated game show “Anniversary Game”, where she married the host Alan Hamel. In 2000, Suzanne was diagnosed with breast cancer, which she treated with a medical plant instead of chemotherapy. While her acting career started in the 1960s, it took off when she was cast in the popular ABC sitcom Three’s Company and was the breakout star. She also starred in the TV series She’s the Sheriff, Step by Step and The Suzanne Show. In addition, she appeared on the 20^th season of Dancing with the Stars, two Playboy magazines, infomercials and was portrayed in South Park. Suzanne has written countless books that cover a variety of health and wellness topics, including her latest “A New Way to Age”. I’ve wanted to interview her for many years, not just because my mom is one of her customers, but because she’s been able to stay relevant for many decades which is so rare in her profession.

The 5 questions I ask in this episode:

You’ve been in the media and entertainment business since the 1960s. What do you think has allowed you to sustain such a long career in one of the most competitive industries?
When did you decide to take your health seriously and what habits have you created that have had the biggest impact on your health?
What’s the first thing you do when you encounter a big obstacle?
People are living longer but aren’t necessarily wealthier and healthier than previous generations. Based on the conversations you’ve had with doctors, other experts and through your own experience, what can people do right now to set themselves up for a better life as they age?
What’s your best piece of career advice?

Follow Suzanne’s journey: