Paige DeSorbo on Career Pivots, Imposter Syndrome, and Her New Loungewear Brand 'Daphne'

Oct 9, 2025 at 12:00 PM

Paige DeSorbo, a prominent figure in reality television and digital media, recently opened up about her career trajectory, offering candid reflections on her professional experiences and future ambitions. From her early days as a child model to her current ventures as a podcast co-host, best-selling author, and fashion entrepreneur, DeSorbo emphasizes the importance of adaptability, trusting one's instincts, and maintaining a strong work ethic. She candidly addresses topics such as imposter syndrome and the evolving perception of 'influencers,' showcasing her grounded perspective amidst her growing success.

Paige DeSorbo Shares Career Wisdom and New Ventures

In a recent interview with ELLE, reality television personality Paige DeSorbo, known for her role on Bravo's Summer House and co-host of the popular podcast Giggly Squad with Hannah Berner, discussed her multifaceted career. DeSorbo, who also co-authored the New York Times best-selling book How to Giggle, has now ventured into the fashion industry with the launch of her loungewear brand, 'Daphne,' named after her cat. The interview delved into various aspects of her professional life, highlighting key moments and insights.

DeSorbo's career began at a young age as a child model, an experience she fondly recalls despite the humorous challenges, such as a heavy toy case for a Hasbro baby doll campaign. She notes that throughout her modeling career, she never encountered a truly 'bad' job, even when faced with seasonal discomfort during photoshoots or being dismissed from roles. This resilience underpins her philosophy that every experience, even apparent setbacks, serves as a learning opportunity rather than a failure.

A significant piece of career advice DeSorbo has embraced is the ability to pivot at any moment. She believes that acknowledging lessons learned and fearlessly changing direction can alleviate anxiety associated with new projects. This mindset has been crucial in her transition from reality TV star to a successful digital content creator and entrepreneur.

DeSorbo strongly advocates for trusting one's intuition, stating that veering away from her initial gut feelings has consistently led to the need for course correction. She encourages younger individuals to cultivate this self-awareness and confidence in their instincts.

Among her proudest professional achievements, DeSorbo highlighted the extraordinary experience of performing with Hannah Berner at Radio City Music Hall for two consecutive nights. This event, she noted, was a surreal honor that marked a memorable culmination of their tour.

Addressing imposter syndrome, DeSorbo admitted to experiencing it intermittently, fluctuating between moments of self-doubt and strong self-belief. She also shared her nuanced perspective on being labeled an 'influencer,' acknowledging the negative societal connotations often associated with the term, particularly when applied to women. However, she views the ability of women to build successful careers through influencing as a truly impressive feat.

DeSorbo's work philosophy is centered on efficiency, preparedness, and respect for authority. She ensures she is always ready and knowledgeable for any task, valuing the collaborative effort involved in every project. With her new 'Daphne' brand, she fosters a collaborative environment where team well-being is prioritized.

Despite her numerous accomplishments, DeSorbo remains humble, stating she hasn't 'made it' yet. She views her career as an evolving journey with new opportunities constantly emerging, reserving such a declaration for monumental achievements like winning an Oscar. Looking ahead, she has ambitious plans for 'Daphne' and hopes to continue Giggly Squad for many years to come.

Paige DeSorbo's journey exemplifies the power of embracing change and maintaining an authentic voice in the ever-evolving landscape of media and entrepreneurship. Her candid reflections offer valuable lessons on resilience, self-trust, and redefining success on one's own terms. Her approach to career development—seeing pivots as growth opportunities and trusting her inner compass—is particularly inspiring in today's fast-paced professional world. Moreover, her nuanced perspective on the 'influencer' label challenges preconceived notions and highlights the significant achievements of women in this space. DeSorbo's story reminds us that true accomplishment often lies not in reaching a single destination, but in the continuous pursuit of passion and purpose, always remaining open to new possibilities.