Susan Powter: From ‘Stop the Insanity!’ to Last Uber Eats Delivery with Al Roker

Susan Powter, the 1990s fitness icon known for her energetic informercials and signature buzzcut, has marked a turning point in her life with one final delivery for Uber Eats, accompanied by Al Roker.

From Fitness Empire to Gig Economy

For nine years, Powter supplemented her income by delivering food in Las Vegas while living in a small apartment. This came after a dramatic fall from prominence, which included personal bankruptcy in 1995 stemming from business setbacks, lawsuits, and divorce. A documentary released in November, “Stop the Insanity: Finding Susan Powter,” has brought renewed attention to her story and sparked an outpouring of support.

Did You Know? Susan Powter’s fitness empire was once worth tens of millions of dollars before facing financial hardship in the mid-1990s.

A New Chapter Begins

The documentary, directed by Zeberiah Newman and executive produced by Jamie Lee Curtis, appears to have opened doors for Powter, prompting her to end her work as a delivery driver. She shared her final delivery with Al Roker on January 23, footage of which aired on TODAY on January 28. Powter expressed to Roker that she had “lost hope” of regaining recognition and a sense of purpose.

During the ride-along, Powter and Roker observed the realities of the gig economy, including picking up orders from commercial kitchens designed for delivery services rather than traditional storefronts. She earned $2.20 on a Starbucks delivery to an apartment.

Looking Ahead

Powter’s future now appears brighter, fueled by the renewed public interest in her story. She has expressed a desire to rebuild her brand, but in a different form than her 1990s persona. She envisions a return to creating content – books, audio, and video – and teaching wellness. She also plans to travel the country in an RV, engaging with people on issues ranging from fitness to aging and poverty.

Expert Insight: Powter’s story highlights the precariousness of financial stability, even for those who achieve significant public success. The documentary’s impact demonstrates the power of second chances and the potential for public support to facilitate personal reinvention.

Uber Eats also contributed to this new beginning, donating $10,000 to The Just One Project, a Las Vegas charity fighting food insecurity, in Powter’s name. Her final delivery was made to a 26-year-old man, Tyler, who tipped her $5.23. Powter encouraged Tyler to “Google” her, noting his “nice energy.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted Susan Powter to start delivering for Uber Eats?

Susan Powter began delivering for Uber Eats nine years ago while living paycheck to paycheck in Las Vegas following a period of financial hardship and bankruptcy.

What role did the documentary play in Powter’s life?

The documentary “Stop the Insanity: Finding Susan Powter” generated significant support for Powter and prompted her to leave her job as an Uber Eats driver, offering her a renewed sense of hope and possibility.

What are Susan Powter’s plans for the future?

Powter plans to create books, audio, and video content, teach wellness, travel the country in an RV, and engage with people on various issues, while also building a new brand distinct from her 1990s fitness persona.

As Susan Powter embarks on this new chapter, what does it mean to see someone reinvent themselves after facing significant adversity?