SM: Do you think it's tougher for women to carry that label?
Huffington: I do know our culture still isn't comfortable with outspoken women. As Marlo Thomas famously put it, "A man has to be Joe McCarthy to be called ruthless. All a woman has to do is put you on hold."

SM: How do you deal with the criticism that comes with being such a public, opinionated figure?
Huffington: It comes with the territory. The best way to deal with that kind of thing is through humor. When I was a child, my mother gave me an understanding of the value of a sense of humor. She used to tell me, "Angels fly because they take themselves lightly."

SM: What advice do you have for women today regarding life, love and success?
Huffington: I tell women all the time that in order to find fulfillment in these areas, you have to confront your fears. Fear is universal. It touches us all—but clearly doesn’t stop everyone.

SM: What inspires you?
Huffington: People with passion, people with a purpose, people who are willing to do the hard work of trying to change the world for the better.