The Longest Shortest Time
EPISODE #250: When Rumors Spread Like Wildfire About the Fire Commissioner
Laura Kavanagh served as first deputy commissioner of the FDNY during one of the most tumultuous times in New York City’s history—the COVID-19 pandemic. She was the first woman in this role, and later she became the first female fire commissioner.
Commissioner Kavanagh at the scene of a major incident in the Bronx.
Commissioner Kavanagh with Senators Schumer and Gillibrand at a press conference lithium ion batteries in e-bikes.
Both roles were bookended by false rumors. First, that she slept her way to the top, and then an even nastier rumor spread about her supposed pregnancy.
Commissioner Kavanagh at her swearing-in ceremony.
Now, for the first time, she shares what was actually going on in her reproductive life when she ran the fire department.
Commissioner Kavanagh with female firefighters, EMTs, Medics and officers. (Credit: Paola Kudacki for New York Magazine)
Tune in for a story about swirling rumors, a powerful job, and navigating fertility choices.
Recommendations from the archive
• Listen to Eggs Over Freezy for more about the process of freezing your eggs.
• Curious about IVF? Check out One Woman, 3 Kids, 15 Rounds of IVF.
Episode resources
• Laura Kavanagh wrote an op-ed for Fortune about her time as FDNY commissioner, and how to change the workplace for the better.
Top photo credit: Guerin Blask for City and State.