Inspiring TV Shows for Women Who Want More From Life (and Work)
When no one around you is dreaming big, it’s easy to feel like your ambition is “too much.” But sometimes, the inspiration you need isn’t a person - it’s a character. One who reminds you how capable you really are.
Whether you're navigating a career change, craving the confidence to study again, or simply feeling stuck, these female-led TV shows will reignite your belief in what’s possible.
four shows that’ll reignite your belief
1. One Tree Hill
What begins as a teenage basketball rivalry evolves into a powerful exploration of creativity, courage, and choosing your own future. From Lucas chasing a writing career, to Peyton starting a record label, to Brooke building a fashion empire, this series quietly becomes a masterclass in personal growth and creative ambition. It’s full of heart, setbacks, and second chances - and just might surprise you with how deeply it lands.
“We all need that thing that’s worth fighting for. Maybe it’s a certain someone, or a special place, maybe just an idea. So find your fight, and fight like hell.”
Available on: Amazon Prime & Apple TV
2. The Bold Type
Set inside a modern women’s magazine, this show follows three best friends figuring out life, love, and purpose in NYC. Each character’s journey - in writing, styling, and digital activism - reminds us that the path isn’t always linear. It’s about backing yourself even when you’re unsure.
“Looking back, that’s exactly why it was the right decision. Because it was the one that scared the shit out of me.”
Available on: Amazon Prime (Seasons 1–4)
3. The good wife
Alicia Florrick steps back into the courtroom - and into herself - after her husband’s very public scandal. This isn’t just a legal drama. It’s a reminder that women can rebuild, reclaim, and rise at any stage of life. Full of complex characters and sharp storytelling, this one’s perfect for late bloomers, career changers, or anyone starting again.
“When the door you’ve been knocking on finally opens, you don’t ask why. You run through.”
Available on: My4, Amazon Prime, Apple TV, Sky TV
4. Ugly Betty
Betty Suarez is bright, awkward, and underestimated - but she’s also determined to make it in the fashion industry without losing herself. Her story is a celebration of working hard, staying kind, and letting your difference become your strength.
“Be who you are, wear what you want — just learn how to run real fast.”
Available on: Disney Plus, Amazon Prime, Apple TV
More shows to add to your list
If you're into ambition arcs, reinvention, and emotionally intelligent female leads, try:
Scandal – Power, politics, and unapologetic leadership
How to Get Away with Murder – Intelligence, boundaries, and identity
Gilmore Girls – Study motivation and mother-daughter resilience
Siren – Feminine strength, transformation, and reclaiming your voice
Jane the Virgin – Big dreams, storytelling, and owning your narrative
Sex and the City – Female independence, evolving identity, and the freedom to redefine success
Emily in Paris – Marketing, creativity, reinvention abroad (light but watchable)
Let your next binge move you forward
It’s easy to forget how powerful you are when you’re in the messy middle. These shows won’t solve your problems - but they might just give you the spark, the sentence, or the scene that helps you keep going.
Because sometimes, you just need to see another woman rising to remember that you can too.
