Ep 6: Why Deborah Norville Really Left Inside Edition and the Surprise That Changed Everything
Deborah Norville reveals the real reason she left Inside Edition after 30 years and what sparked her most unexpected career transition yet. In her most in depth and revealing conversation to date, Deborah sits down with longtime friend and fellow broadcaster Daryn Kagan to share what really happened behind the scenes. Was it truly her choice? What condition did her bosses refuse to meet? And what joyful surprise came just days after she walked away from her dream job?
In this exclusive episode of Call Me Friend, Deborah opens up about what it means to truly start over, not from failure, but from strength. She reflects on the pressure of proving herself for nearly five decades, the emotional moment that brought her career full circle, and why it takes more courage to walk away from “good enough” than to rebuild after a setback. From being publicly let go during maternity leave at NBC’s Today Show to becoming the longest-running anchor in American television history, Deborah’s story is a masterclass in resilience, reinvention, and self-trust.
Just days after announcing her departure from Inside Edition, Deborah received life changing personal news, she’s about to become a grandmother for the first time. Now, she’s turning to listeners for help: What should her grandma name be? She’s collecting suggestions, and yours could be the one that sticks.
Whether you’re navigating a career transition, redefining your identity, or wondering what’s next, this episode is packed with wisdom, vulnerability, and the kind of inspiration only a real conversation between friends can bring.
Timestamps
- (00:00) Deborah’s early moment of doubt: “You don’t belong here”
- (01:00) The power of proving someone wrong
- (02:00) Daryn’s story of being let go from CNN
- (03:40) Different kinds of starting over: forced vs. chosen
- (05:30) Why Deborah chose to leave Inside Edition
- (08:00) Reflecting on her career in broadcast journalism
- (11:30) How the Today Show exit shaped her path
- (14:45) The wagon wheel method: redefining who you are
- (18:00) Building a belief plan after career transition
- (21:00) Hosting a game show and coming home to Georgia
- (26:00) Breaking news: Deborah Norville is going to be a grandmother
- (28:00) How gratitude fuels a fresh start
Key Takeaways
- Starting over doesn’t mean failure, it can be an act of power. Deborah left Inside Edition on her own terms, showing what it means to walk away with confidence.
- Resilience in media careers comes from knowing your values, not just your roles. From network news to daytime television, radio, authorship, and game shows, Deborah’s journey proves that true longevity in media starts with knowing who you are, not just what job title you hold. This is especially powerful for women navigating high profile careers in journalism, broadcasting, and beyond.
- Broadcast journalism is evolving, and career transitions are part of longevity. Deborah’s journey from NBC to CBS to Inside Edition and now to game show host is proof that reinvention is possible at any stage.
- Gratitude and mindset drive sustainable success. Deborah’s belief in the power of gratitude shaped both her recovery from public setbacks and her newest life chapter.
- Deborah Norville is about to become a grandmother and she needs your help!!! Just days after announcing her departure, Deborah learned she’s going to be a first time grandma. She’s taking suggestions for her new “grandma name” and wants to hear your suggestions!
Guest Bio: Deborah Norville
Deborah Norville is a veteran broadcast journalist, best known for anchoring Inside Edition for over 30 years. She began her career as a college intern in Atlanta and rose to national prominence at NBC’s Today Show. A bestselling author, Emmy-winning reporter, and advocate for women in media, Deborah is also the host of a new game show, The Perfect Line, and the proud grandmother-to-be of her first grandchild.
Resources & Mentions
- Deborah Norville Official Site: https://www.deborahnorville.com
- CallMeFriendPodcast.com – Join the conversation or leave a voicemail
- Miss Lou’s Cabin:airbnb.com/h/mslouscabin
- Call Me Friend Hotline: 912-766-0446 Call Daryn, leave a message, let her know about one of your friends who would make a great story.
Daryn’s Book: Hope Possible: A Network News Anchor’s Thoughts On Losing Her Job, Finding Love, A New Career, and My Dog, Always My Dog https://amzn.to/3GPcicB
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