Peterson Sorenson
Oprah Winfrey’s impact extends beyond entertainment—she has built careers. Over the years, her influence has transformed everyday individuals into household names. Some have thrived in television, publishing, and business, while others remain known simply for their connection to her. Let’s dive into ten individuals whose careers were shaped by Oprah.
Gayle King
Few people are as closely associated with Oprah as Gayle King. Their friendship led to opportunities that shaped her career, from her role at “The Oprah Magazine” to her position as a morning talk show host. King’s dedication to journalism and broadcasting played a key role in her rise.
Lisa Price
Carol’s Daughter was a small beauty brand until Oprah put it in the spotlight. When Lisa Price appeared on “The Oprah Winfrey Show” in 2002, demand for her products exploded. Today, Carol’s Daughter is a multi-million dollar business, and Price continues to inspire budding entrepreneurs by blending passion with business savvy.
Nate Berkus
Millions fell in love with Nate Berkus after his appearances on Oprah’s show. His work as a designer is notable for its personal touch and inclusivity, helping everyday people create beautiful spaces. After his appearances, Berkus launched his talk show and built a brand.
Suze Orman
Suze Orman’s career as a financial planner and author was propelled by her appearances on “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” where she gave viewers accessible advice on managing their money. Suze’s bestselling books and speaking engagements have built her as a pioneer in financial literacy.
Dr. Phil
Dr. Phil McGraw rose to fame by offering relationship advice on Oprah’s show. His straightforward approach resonated with audiences, eventually earning him his own talk show. Though his expertise is undeniable, it was Oprah who gave him the platform to create an empire.
Iyanla Vanzant
Before her time on Oprah’s show, Iyanla Vanzant was relatively unknown. She gained attention through her heartfelt advice and wisdom, eventually earning her own talk show. Oprah’s support helped her become one of the most respected life coaches in the industry.
Rhonda Byrne
Rhonda Byrne’s “The Secret” exploded in popularity after Oprah endorsed it in 2007. The book, which promotes the law of attraction, became an international bestseller. Notably, Oprah contributed to fueling its success, which made Byrne a leading figure in self-help literature.
Peter Walsh
Peter Walsh became a household name in the organizing world, thanks in part to his frequent appearances on Oprah’s show. However, it was his commitment to helping people declutter their lives and find clarity that made him stand out in the field.
Dr. Laura Berman
Intimacy and relationship expert Dr. Laura Berman found an audience through Oprah. While some of her topics were too bold for daytime TV, Oprah still gave her a talk show on the OWN Network, allowing her to reach audiences in a more open setting.
Wolfgang Puck
Wolfgang Puck was already a respected chef, but his career further skyrocketed after Oprah introduced him to her audience. His appearances on “The Oprah Winfrey Show” brought widespread recognition and led to restaurant expansions, bestselling cookbooks, and a multimedia empire.
