Ep. 324 Addie Zinone
Addie Zinone: From the Today Show to the Front Lines—A Story of Power Dynamics, Resilience, and Accountability
Jeanne Pepper and Addie Zinone at the PeppTalks Studios January 2026
Addie Zinone is a veteran journalist, former Today Show production assistant, a producer for Access Hollywood and retired Army Reserve soldier whose life story is a profound study in resilience and the pursuit of truth. She was also a NCAA Division I gymnast at Temple University. Perhaps it was those years of training to be a professional athlete that honed her resilience and drove her ambition to be so good at gymnastics she earned a full scholarship to Temple University. After beginning her career at NBC’s flagship morning program, Addie eventually stepped away from the spotlight to serve her country, serving for more than a decade, deploying twice to Iraq as an Army combat journalist. Her dual perspective as both a media insider and a military veteran gives her a unique vantage point on the structures of power and the weight of public perception.
For years, Addie’s story was shrouded in the complexities of workplace power dynamics. In 2017, she courageously stepped forward to share her experience regarding an encounter with high-profile media figure and co-worker Matt Lauer, sparking a national conversation about the vulnerability of young women in professional environments. Rather than letting the narrative be defined by others, Addie has spent the last several years reclaiming her voice, advocating for systemic change and supporting those who have faced similar professional or personal traumas.
Beyond the headlines, Addie is a dedicated advocate for veterans and a mother who understands the necessity of fostering a more equitable world for the next generation. Her transition from the fast-paced world of New York media to the discipline of military service—and eventually to the front lines of social advocacy—showcases a woman who refuses to be silenced by the weight of her past. She speaks with raw honesty about the "shame" that often accompanies survival and the liberation that comes with telling the whole truth.
In this episode, host Jeanne Pepper and Addie discuss the intersection of trauma and the public eye. They explore the emotional toll of accountability and the strength required to stand firm when the world is watching. Addie’s insights serve as a vital reminder that healing is not a linear process, but a courageous act of defiance. Her story isn't just about what happened to her; it’s about who she became because of it, and how she continues to lead with integrity.
Addie Zinone is a veteran advocate for mental health and a leader in the Orange County community. Having served as the Chairman of the Board for the Child Guidance Center of Orange County (2022–2025) and currently as its Parliamentarian, Addie has spent years navigating the landscape of trauma recovery and family support systems. Addie’s transition into leadership at the Child Guidance Center is an extension of her personal journey toward healing and accountability. By focusing on the mental health of children—particularly those who have experienced trauma—she has channeled her personal and professional experiences into a mission that prioritizes the protection and empowerment of the most vulnerable members of society.
She is now bringing those insights to a wider audience through her YouTube show, All Things A to Z with Addie Zinone. Whether she’s diving into the nuances of mental health, unpacking current events, or analyzing politics and pop culture, Addie’s mission is simple: to build a community where we aren't afraid to start the hard conversations. She is a powerful example of how to make change and lead with purpose for the next generation.The Child Guidance Center (CGC)
The Child Guidance Center (CGC) is a prominent non-profit organization dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health services to children and families. Founded on the belief that early intervention is key to long-term well-being, the center offers specialized programs for trauma recovery, behavioral health, and family support, particularly for underserved communities in Southern California.
All Things A to Z with Addie Zinone or “All Things”
All Things A to Z with Addie Zinone is an upcoming conversation-driven show about the space where real life actually happens—the complicated and often messy middle between A and Z. Through thoughtful discussions about current events, culture, mental health, service, community, and personal growth, the show invites audiences into open conversations where curiosity is welcome and nothing is off-limits. Rather than telling people what to think, the goal of the show is to create a space where people can explore ideas together, ask better questions, and engage in meaningful dialogue about the world we share. The show will launch soon and will eventually feature guests from a wide range of fields and experiences, all contributing to thoughtful conversations about the issues and ideas shaping our lives.
Addie now lives in Newport Beach, California, with her teenage children, Hudson and Hartley.
Episode 324
Hosted by: Jeanne Pepper
Guest: Addie Zinone
Producer: Eli Moskowitz
Executive Producer: Jeanne Pepper
Original Theme Music: Jay Bernstein
Special Thank You to our volunteers
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DISCLAIMER Jeanne Pepper is providing this podcast as a public service. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Jeanne Pepper unless so stated. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by Ms. Pepper’s guests are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of Ms. Pepper. If you have any questions about this disclaimer or the content herein, please contact us at Producers@PepptalkswithJeanne.com #PeppTalkswithJeanne #JeannePepper #BlazeitForward
