Sherri Shepherd Credits Her “View” Co-Hosts for Inspiring Her to Vote, Find Her Voice After Growing Up a Jehovah’s Witness

Sherri Shepherd has made headlines recently as she opened up about her transformative journey on the talk show “The View.” In her heartfelt revelations, Shepherd recounted how her experiences on the show helped her discover her political voice, a significant shift from her upbringing as a Jehovah’s Witness, where voting and political engagement were discouraged.

On the September 23 episode of “The Jamie Kern Lima Show” podcast, she credited her co-hosts, notably Barbara Walters and Whoopi Goldberg, for motivating her to broaden her understanding and challenge her long-held beliefs.

From Political Neutrality to Empowerment

Growing up in a faith that emphasizes neutrality in political matters, Shepherd learned early on that participating in civic duties such as voting was not encouraged. This upbringing left her feeling disconnected from the very fabric of her community and its governance. However, her tenure on “The View” marked a turning point in her life. Shepherd shared that it was through engaging discussions and the vibrant exchange of ideas that she began to reevaluate her thoughts about political participation.

Shepherd specifically highlighted a moment when Barbara Walters advised her to expand her horizons through reading and education. This encouragement was pivotal in her journey — it catalyzed her quest for knowledge and sparked her desire to explore various perspectives. Shepherd not only learned about the importance of being informed on issues but also recognized the critical need to embrace diverse viewpoints in order to overcome prejudice and broaden her understanding of the world.

The Influence of Co-Hosts on Her Journey

Along with Walters’ encouragement, Shepherd expressed gratitude for the insights she gained from her fellow co-hosts on the show. Joy Behar, in particular, played a vital role in Shepherd’s journey toward self-acceptance and authenticity. Behar was instrumental in helping Shepherd understand the complexity of representing multiple demographics on air. She felt immense pressure to ensure that her voice reflected the diversity of experiences in her community.

Throughout her time on “The View,” which spanned from 2007 to 2014, Shepherd experienced firsthand the importance of being true to oneself. Behar often reminded her that speaking her truth was essential, even in the face of possible backlash or differing opinions. This message resonated deeply with Shepherd and encouraged her not just to understand her voice but to embrace it wholeheartedly.

Building a New Platform with “Sherri”

The nurturing environment provided by her co-hosts on “The View” laid the foundation for Shepherd to pursue her own path in the entertainment industry. Harnessing the confidence and self-awareness she gained from her time on the show, she launched her own talk show, “Sherri,” which airs on weekdays in syndication. This new venture is an extension of her journey of self-discovery, allowing her to engage with audiences directly and share her insights while encouraging others to find and use their voices.

Shepherd’s experiences serve as a powerful reminder of the impact that a supportive community can have on personal growth. By discussing the importance of voting and being informed, she hopes to inspire others who may feel apprehensive about stepping into the political arena or expressing their beliefs. The encouragement she received from her co-hosts not only changed her life but has the potential to affect many others through her newfound platform.

In sharing her story, Sherri Shepherd demonstrates that it is never too late to find your voice and advocate for what you believe in, especially with the right support system. Through her journey, she exemplifies the importance of education, dialogue, and embracing one’s true self as a means of empowerment for herself and others.

As we continue to navigate a rapidly changing world, Shepherd’s story invites everyone to reflect on their own beliefs and consider how they can engage in meaningful conversations that promote understanding and growth. For those inspired by her journey, it’s a call to action: don’t be afraid to speak your truth and use your voice to make an impact.