Emily Hikade led a secret life for many years. As a diplomat turned CIA officer, Emily engaged in dangerous counterterrorism work, even as she built a family. But a life-altering, near-death experience changed her perspective, leading her to eventually pivot out of the CIA and create Petite Plume, a wildly successful pajama company. On this episode of She Pivots, Emily talks about being in a field dominated by men, how she leveraged her skills as a negotiator in the pajama business, and the role of her family in the career decisions she’s made.

She Pivots was created by host Emily Tisch Sussman to highlight women, their stories, and how their pivot became their success. To learn more about Emily Hikade, follow us on Instagram @ShePivotsThePodcast or visit shepivotsthepodcast.com.