Fairygodboss of the Week: Beth Comstock

Author and Former Vice Chair of General Electric, Beth Comstock, knows a thing or two about channeling creativity. 

From writing her new book, "Imagine It Forward: Courage, Creativity and the Power of Change,"  to developing new businesses at GE, Beth has built a career as a game-changing thinker. Here's her take on work-life balance, what makes a good boss, and cultivating creativity. 

Fairygodboss of the Week: Beth Comstock

Author, Penguin Random House

New York, New York

Tell us a little about your career. How did you get to where you are now?

I am the author of the newly released book "Imagine It Forward: Courage, Creativity and the Power of Change." I spent over 25 years navigating a range of industries in roles that took me from storyteller to chief marketer to Vice Chair for one of the biggest companies in earth, GE.  I’m a curious discoverer who seeks what’s new and what’s next.  A change maker.

What is an accomplishment that you are proud of?

Opening myself and my company up to new discovery and connectivity, and being part of amazingly creative teams.

What is a challenge that you've faced and overcome?

I had to overcome my reserved nature which held me back and fueled a lack of confidence.

Who is YOUR Fairygodboss? and Why?

Ive been fortunate to have a range of amazing Fairygodbosses over the years who have championed and mentored me. Right now, I’m grateful for Elyse Cheney, my literary agent. She’s helping me navigate the publishing world which is new to me, and she demands quality in everything we do.

What do you do when you're not working?

Read. I love to read.  And spend time with my family — 2 daughters and husband.  we’re renovating a rundown farm and living our return to nature.

If you could have dinner with one famous person—dead or alive—who would it be?

Eleanor Roosevelt.

Lightning Round: What is your karaoke song?

"Build Me Up Buttercup." 

Lightning Round: What is your favorite movie?

Brigadoon.

Lightning Round: What book would you bring with you on a desert island?

Mine.

Lightning Round: What is your shopping vice? What would you buy if you won the lottery?

Art. I love contemporary art.

What is the #1 career tip you'd like to share with other women who want to have successful careers like you?

Give yourself permission to take a risk on something that frightens you or stands in your way of getting better.

Why do you love where you work?

I’m a curious storyteller and I get to focus on that now.

Fairygodboss is all about women helping other women - so each week, we celebrate a woman who made a difference in another woman’s career. Is there a woman who has made a difference in your career? Celebrate her and thank her by nominating her here.