Jon Stojan
Image credit: Elle Levy
The podcasting world has changed how we share ideas, tell stories, and connect with audiences. As social media grows, some voices stand out. Elle Levy is one of them. She is a rising star who turned her challenges into a platform that inspires millions.
Elle’s journey from Brooklyn to Los Angeles shows her strength and ability to change. She is now the host of Tacos & Shawarma, creating her own place in podcasting. Elle is changing how people can achieve success on their own terms.
From Brooklyn to Independence
Elle grew up in Brooklyn, New York. Her life was unusual. She learned to be independent at a very young age. She moved out of her parent’s house at 16 and started working at 14. By then, she was already handling life on her own while most kids her age were just learning to take the bus.
At 26, she wanted change and new chances. She moved to Los Angeles with $20,000 in savings. Soon, she realized that pursuing her dreams would cost more than she expected. Within a year, she ran out of money and became homeless, staying on friends’ couches. But she didn’t give up. Eventually, she caught a break, found a roommate, and got a stable place to live. From there, she began to rebuild her life step by step.
Success in the Cannabis Industry
Elle built a career in the cannabis industry and became the head of marketing for a well-known brand. This job provided her with financial security and connected her with celebrities and people in entertainment. While her career seemed to be thriving, she felt it was not her true calling.
Then, she became a mom during the COVID-19 pandemic, which led her to make difficult choices. She decided to leave the cannabis industry, a field she had worked hard to succeed in, to focus on raising her son. This decision was about more than just her child; it was about finding a new path that matched her changing values.
Starting from Scratch with Tacos & Shawarma
After leaving her job, Elle faced a big question: “What now?” She found her answer in podcasting. With no experience or guidance, she started Tacos & Shawarma. A simple experiment turned into a platform that connects with millions.
Her podcast focuses on honesty, humor, and a straightforward storytelling style. She talks about her struggles and successes, creating real conversations that feel genuine. This authenticity makes her stand out among polished content. Her ability to connect personally with listeners has earned her over 100 million views.
For Elle, podcasting is more than just fun; it’s about making something meaningful from life’s ups and downs. She takes what others see as setbacks and uses them as motivation for growth.
Challenges That Shape the Journey
Elle’s success didn’t come without struggle. Leaving a stable career to start over at 36 was a bold move, and she’s honest about the uncertainties that come with it. She often says she feels “in-between.” She is not where she wants to be, but she is far from where she began.
Balancing single motherhood with running a podcast is no easy task. She does everything herself, from producing episodes to managing her growing audience. Yet, she keeps going, driven by a simple belief: quitting isn’t an option.
Her story connects with people because it is real. She does not pretend to have all the answers or an easy road to success. Instead, she shows that not giving up can lead to surprising opportunities, even when others doubt you.
The Future of Podcasting and Elle’s Role in It
Elle believes that podcasting is more than just a trend; it is the future of storytelling and marketing. Podcasts allow creators to connect with their audiences on a deeper level. They also help businesses reach their target customers in new and authentic ways.
As for her own journey, Elle’s vision is clear. She wants to expand Tacos & Shawarma into a global brand and continue inspiring others to take risks, embrace change, and believe in their potential. Most importantly, she’s building a legacy for her son—a reminder that it’s never too late to chase your dreams.
Conclusion: Writing Her Own Success Story
Elle Levy’s story shows that success is not a straight line. It is often messy and unpredictable and may need you to start over. She faced many challenges in Brooklyn before she became known for podcasting. She has proven that with patience and self-belief, you can go further than people expect.
She is not just making a podcast with Tacos & Shawarma—she is starting a movement. This movement encourages people to share their stories, accept their flaws, and keep striving for more. Her journey is about more than just podcasting; it is about the power of reinventing oneself and having the courage to keep going, no matter what challenges life brings.
Elle Levy isn’t just the next podcast superstar; she’s a voice that reminds us all that it’s possible to turn life’s challenges into something extraordinary.