Meet Shanay Pringle | Host of The Pink Elephant by Shanay Podcast

We had the good fortune of connecting with Shanay Pringle and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shanay, is your business focused on helping the community? If so, how?
Women are dying to say what they really think and feel as they journey through life. But because of societal standards, norms, and maybe even family values, we’ve somehow learned to say what “everyone” wants to hear instead of expressing our true thoughts and emotions. The Pink Elephant by Shanay is more than just a podcast—it’s a safe space where women can feel seen, heard, and understood. Through relatable content, candid conversations, and a touch of humor, this platform encourages women to embrace their own uniqueness, boldly take up space in the world, and live unapologetically. Whether discussing friendships, fashion, or personal growth, The Pink Elephant by Shanay empowers women to own their stories, speak their truth, and redefine what it means to be authentic in today’s world.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art is storytelling, and my canvas is The Pink Elephant by Shanay podcast. I create a space where real, unfiltered conversations meet humor and relatability. What sets me apart is my dedication to highlighting the voices and stories of women, especially those who feel unseen or unheard. My podcast isn’t just about sharing content—it’s about building a community where women can find inspiration, laugh a little, and, most importantly, see themselves reflected in each episode.

One thing I’m most proud of is creating a platform that feels authentic and true to my own experiences while resonating with so many others. I’m excited every time someone reaches out to say they felt seen or inspired by an episode. Knowing that my work impacts women in meaningful ways keeps me motivated and grateful.

Getting to where I am today professionally wasn’t easy. I’ve had my fair share of challenges, from balancing motherhood to battling self-doubt. There were moments when I questioned if I was on the right path, especially when things didn’t move as quickly as I wanted. But I learned to lean into my passion and stay consistent, trusting that every step, no matter how small, was getting me closer to my goals. I’ve also realized the importance of staying true to my voice, even when it feels like the world is shouting otherwise.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned along the way is that it’s okay to embrace vulnerability. In fact, it’s necessary. My journey has taught me that sharing your truth, flaws and all, is where real connection happens. I’ve also learned that success isn’t always about the destination but enjoying the journey and finding joy in the little wins.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that The Pink Elephant by Shanay is more than just a podcast—it’s a celebration of women’s voices, journeys, and everything that makes us unique. I’m here to remind women that they have the power to define their own narrative and that it’s okay to take up space, be bold, and speak their truth. My story is still unfolding, and I’m excited to continue sharing it with the world, one episode at a time.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
You know, I’m finding that having no itinerary always brings about the best experiences. So, when my bestie’s in town, I let the vibe organically carry us through the week, but there are definitely a few things I’d make sure she experiences to have the best time ever:

-Unwinding at my house, to catch up, and let the best chef in all of Charleston—my husband—whip up some of his Fried Whiting, Red Rice, and Mac and Cheese. His cooking is like a warm hug, serving up all the comfort and authentic flavors of Charleston cuisine. Trust me, after that meal, you’ll feel right at home!

-We would Shop ‘til we drop at Target and TJ Maxx, buying things we don’t need but absolutely can’t resist. Retail therapy hits different when you’re with your best friend, and honestly, we’d spend way too much time doing this, but that’s part of the fun!

-We would get all dressed up and have dinner at Gabrielle. It’s an absolute must. The vibe, the food, everything is unmatched—it’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’re living your best life.

-Oh! Afternoon tea at Camellias in downtown Charleston is a whole mood. I’ve been dying to try this girly champagne lounge, and it’s the perfect spot to get fancy and feel like queens while sipping on some tea.

– At some point, we would check out the International African American Museum. It’s a powerful place filled with rich history and culture that you won’t find anywhere else. It’s a must-visit to connect with the stories that have shaped our world as well as Charleston, South Carolina.

-A Stroll through the Charleston City Market to shop local artists and artisans is always a must. It’s the perfect way to support the locals, and snag a few one-of-a-kind pieces you won’t see anywhere else.

– Of course we’d grab some ice cream from Jeni’s and head to The Battery to sit, relax, and chat. It’s the perfect spot to wind down, people-watch, and have those deep, soul-refreshing conversations that only happen when you’re with your bestie.

But even with all those things…I would surrender to having no strict plans—just good vibes, great food, and all the Charleston magic. It’s all about enjoying every moment and making memories that last long after the week is over.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would be remiss if I did not dedicate this shoutout to my mother. She was an “influencer” before there was such a thing. She had the ability to make any and everything stylish in a way that would have you like, “how?” but she just had that “thing,” ya know? Like Rihanna. She was my first example that no matter what you were born into, your current circumstance, or the odds, you get to determine who you want to be. Her passing at the age of 49 also taught me the importance of “living.” When I say living, I mean not just existing and “getting by,” but truly being present in every moment, appreciating the little things, and pursuing your passions without hesitation. My mother showed me that life is meant to be embraced fully, with style, grace, and boldness, and I carry her lessons with me every day, striving to live as vibrantly as she did.

Website: https://www.thepinkelelphantbyshanay.com

Instagram: @ThePinkElephant_byShanay

Linkedin: Shanay N. Pringle

Facebook: Shanay Pringle/ The Pink Elephant by Shanay LLC.

Youtube: The Pink Elephant by Shanay

Other: TikTok: @ThePinkElephant_byShanay

Image Credits
Katrina S. Crawford Photography
Sunil Ford Photography