KAROLINE LEAVITT AND DANA PERINO SHARE HEARTFELT SECRETS ABOUT LOVE, MOTHERHOOD, AND LEADERSHIP—What Did They Reveal About Their Journeys?
In a deeply personal live chat in Washington D.C., Karoline Leavitt and Dana Perino opened up about their shared experiences as women balancing love, motherhood, and leadership. From priceless mentorship to candid lessons, the two Fox News stars shared laughter and personal insights that left the audience moved. What did they reveal about their unique paths in life?
Want to know how these two powerful women inspire each other and the world? Click below to get the full story and hear their most emotional moments!👇👇

Dana Perino and Karoline Leavitt Share Insights on Life, Love, and Career in Candid Fox Nation Event

In a memorable and heartfelt live chat in Washington, D.C., Fox News personality Dana Perino and White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt shared personal stories, valuable life lessons, and reflections on their careers. The event, which took place on April 30, was part of a celebration for Perino’s new book I Wish Someone Had Told Me, and it offered fans a unique behind-the-scenes look at the lives of two of the most influential Republican women in media and politics today.

The evening was filled with laughter, personal stories, and empowering advice, as Perino and Leavitt discussed their experiences navigating the pressures of the public eye, personal relationships, and their respective careers. The intimate setting allowed both women to open up about the ups and downs of their lives, touching on everything from their romantic relationships to their paths in politics.

A Powerful Mentorship: From Press Secretary to Press Secretary

Perino, known for her role as a former White House Press Secretary under President George W. Bush, took a moment to introduce Karoline Leavitt to the audience, calling her a “real pistol” and praising the 27-year-old for “taking the country by storm.” Perino’s praise was fitting for Leavitt, who has quickly made a name for herself in Washington, D.C., despite her relatively young age.

Leavitt, in turn, expressed deep gratitude for Perino’s mentorship, acknowledging the incredible impact the seasoned political figure has had on her own career. “You’ve been such an amazing mentor to me and so many other young women,” Leavitt said to Perino, adding that she was excited to ask her questions during the event. Perino’s role as a mentor to Leavitt—and many others in the political world—was evident, as both women shared their admiration and respect for each other.

Leavitt’s impressive career trajectory has included working as an assistant press secretary under Kayleigh McEnany during the Trump administration, winning the 2022 Republican primary for U.S. Congress in New Hampshire, and her current high-profile role in Trump’s 2024 reelection campaign. Despite facing the pressures of public life, Leavitt has remained steadfast in her commitment to her career, even returning to work just days after giving birth to her son, Niko, in July 2024.

Personal Connections: Love Stories That Defy Convention

Beyond their professional lives, the two women also found common ground in their personal relationships, with both sharing stories of love that defy conventional expectations.

Perino, 52, took a moment to reflect on how she met her husband, Peter McMahon, a real estate entrepreneur 18 years her senior. Perino reminisced about their first meeting on a flight over two decades ago, describing it as “love at first flight.” “We talked the entire time,” she recalled fondly. The couple’s connection, which blossomed into marriage, serves as a testament to the lasting bond they share.

Leavitt, meanwhile, shared her own love story with her husband, 60-year-old Nicholas Riccio, a successful entrepreneur. The couple, who welcomed their son, Niko, in 2024, has built a strong foundation together. Leavitt, glowing with affection, called Riccio “my rock” and emphasized the unwavering support he provides, especially as they navigate the challenges of raising a child while juggling demanding careers. “He’s the father of my child, and he’s the best dad I could ever ask for,” Leavitt said with pride. “I walked into your life and it’s been a circus ever since, but God bless him, he’s fully on board.”

Leavitt’s candidness about her relationship and the support she receives from Riccio highlighted the importance of partnership in both personal and professional lives. As someone who has thrived in the spotlight, Leavitt credits her husband’s consistent encouragement and strength as the cornerstone of her success. Their shared commitment to each other, especially in a chaotic period of life, was a theme that resonated with many in the audience.

Career Struggles and Personal Growth: Navigating Public Life

As the evening continued, Perino and Leavitt also reflected on their career challenges, particularly the pressures of balancing ambition with the uncertainty that often comes with a high-profile job in the media and political arenas. Perino spoke candidly about her own struggles, recalling a “quarter-life crisis” she experienced at 25, a time when she wasn’t sure whether her dream of working in TV was achievable.

“I had no idea if this was even possible,” Perino said, noting that she’d spent her early career doubting herself. However, through perseverance and hard work, Perino overcame those doubts and became one of the most recognizable faces on Fox News. She now serves as a prime example of someone who turned initial uncertainty into a successful and enduring career in media.

Leavitt shared her own experiences navigating the pressures of the public spotlight, noting that she faced similar challenges. As a rising star in the Republican Party, she has been under intense scrutiny. In particular, she recalled a viral incident in 2024 during which her microphone was abruptly cut off while she was participating in a live discussion with CNN’s Dana Bash and Jake Tapper. The moment, which drew widespread attention, showcased Leavitt’s resilience in the face of adversity. “You just have to keep going,” she said, emphasizing how she learned to navigate public scrutiny and maintain her composure.

Timeless Advice: Perino’s Key Takeaways for Success

As the event came to a close, Perino shared a piece of advice that has guided her throughout her career. Reflecting on her own journey and the lessons she’s learned, she offered three simple questions to help others navigate their own paths: “Do I get paid? Does it help a cause I care about? And do I want to do it?”

Perino explained that if an opportunity doesn’t meet at least two of these three criteria, the answer should be “no.” This framework, she said, has been invaluable in making career decisions and in maintaining focus on what truly matters. Her advice resonated with the audience, as it encapsulated her philosophy of balancing personal fulfillment with professional ambition. Both women stressed the importance of staying true to oneself and knowing when to say no to opportunities that don’t align with one’s values.

Strength, Authenticity, and Shared Values

Throughout the evening, it was clear that both Dana Perino and Karoline Leavitt share a commitment to values, discipline, and authenticity. Despite the age difference and the varying stages of their careers, the two women found common ground in their experiences, their approach to life, and their shared dedication to serving others. Their stories served as a powerful reminder that no matter where you come from or what your career path may be, staying true to your values and prioritizing what matters most is the key to success.

Both women have achieved significant accomplishments in their respective fields, and their candid conversation offered insight into how they’ve navigated the challenges of public life while maintaining their integrity. Their ability to find strength in each other’s experiences and to support each other in their respective roles exemplified the importance of mentorship and the power of female solidarity in a male-dominated industry.

Conclusion: A Night of Empowerment and Insight

Dana Perino and Karoline Leavitt’s live conversation was a night of humor, heart, and powerful insights. As the two women shared their stories of love, career challenges, and personal growth, they inspired the audience with their authenticity and dedication. Both have carved out impressive careers in media and politics, and their advice to other women aspiring to succeed in these fields was invaluable.

Through their stories of perseverance, resilience, and the importance of faith and family, Perino and Leavitt left a lasting impression on everyone present. The event served as a reminder that, no matter the challenges or obstacles one may face, staying grounded in one’s values and prioritizing what truly matters is key to achieving success. As they continue to mentor young women and inspire future generations of leaders, both Perino and Leavitt remain powerful forces in the world of media and politics.