A toddler's unexpected breach of security at the White House, a groundbreaking research that led a paralyzed man to stand, and the potential for real-time translation technology from Apple - all in this segment of Anything But Politics! SUPPORT OUR MISSION Shop our gear! If you’d like to help support SmartHER News’ mission of a free, independent, nonpartisan press – here’s how you can become a SCOOP insider: https://www.scoop.smarthernews.com/get-the-inside-scoop/ Instagram: https://www.instagra...
Mar 28, 2025•17 min
It's been about a week since the release of new, unredacted documents from the JFK assasination investigation. So what have we actually learned? Author Fred Litwin shares his journey from a curious 18 year-old to a passionate researcher of the JFK assassination. He discusses his initial fascination with the case, the evolution of conspiracy theories, and his belief in the lone gunman theory. Litwin emphasizes the importance of evidence over speculation, critiques the role of secrecy in shaping p...
Mar 27, 2025•17 min
A reporter's notebook on the latest story from The Atlantic by Jeffrey Goldberg, who describes finding himself on a text string belonging to some of America's most powerful leaders as they discuss the lead-up to a military campaign targeting terrorists in Yemen. We discuss not only what Goldberg reported but HOW he reported it. Jenna shares her approach to the story and what to watch for next - Plus, something you won't see anywhere else: a reporter's guidebook from World War II that belonged to...
Mar 26, 2025•23 min
Why did The New York Times question the creation of the Department of Education back in 1979 — the very year it was founded? In this episode of SmartHER News, we take a closer look at the ongoing debate over the future of education in America. With recent calls to dissolve the Department of Education, we revisit a historic NYT editorial titled “An Illusion of Education Reform” and explore the concerns raised about union power, funding disparities, and federal vs. local leadership. How can we imp...
Mar 25, 2025•7 min
The stories to have on your radar for the week ahead - plus, a historic moment for reflection. SUPPORT OUR MISSION Shop our gear! If you’d like to help support SmartHER News’ mission of a free, independent, nonpartisan press – here’s how you can become a SCOOP insider: https://www.scoop.smarthernews.com/get-the-inside-scoop/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smarthernews/ Website: https://smarthernews.com/ YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/smarthernews Advertising Inquiries: https://re...
Mar 24, 2025•10 min
A Texas sheriff believes the color pink may be the missing secret sauce for his jail. In this Friday edition of our "Anything But Politics" segment, Jenna maps out the arguments for and against the fashion choice for prisoners. Plus, a related tangent: we tell you a bit about the woman behind this quote and why she mattered: “If Mabel had worn trousers, she could have been president.” Show Notes: Sheriff's FB Post Houston Chronicle Mabel Walker Willebrandt Federal Bureau of Prisons SUPPORT OUR M...
Mar 21, 2025•9 min
"Uncertainty around the economic outlook has increased" reported the Federal Reserve Wednesday, as it noted recent policy changes by the new Trump administration as one reason for a heightened risk environment. How can you stay steady and succeed, when so much feels in flux? New York Times Best Selling Author and entrepreneur (and one-time journalist!) Codie Sanchez joins us with some fresh perspective. BOOK: Main Street Millionaire Codie Sanchez SUPPORT OUR MISSION If you’d like to help support...
Mar 20, 2025•16 min
Entrepreneur and mother-of-3, Emily Ley, built her organization empire, Simplified, from the ground up, not only inventing her products but building relationships oversees to make her dreams a reality. In this conversation, Emily explains how the recent turmoil in tariffs has impacted her business, putting in plain language the stakes for her business, and raising the alarm about how these broader policies may impact American companies. Find Emily on Instagram HERE and HERE Simplified website SU...
Mar 19, 2025•22 min
America bombs a terrorist group, the Houthis, who have disrupted the global economy by attacking ships along an important navigation route - that’s the headline. But the context matters, and the timing highlights perhaps a larger story: Iran. We're joined by the Foundation For Defense of Democracies, Mark Dubowitz, who explains why he believes the present moment presents an opportunity for both America and the Iranian people for new leadership, and the stakes at play. Show Notes: More on the rec...
Mar 18, 2025•16 min
From Conor McGregor at the White House to a passing reference to Meghan Markle (as an example of media strategy), we sift through the information deluge of the weekend to provide a cheat sheet for the week ahead. War correspondent and writer Hollie McKay joins us with her latest reporting from Mexico and insight into the new designation of cartels by the U.S. government as foreign terrorist organizations (sign up for Hollie's substack "Dispatches" HERE ). Plus ~ A question we have about the new ...
Mar 17, 2025•1 hr 16 min
The news you didn't know you needed in our NEW weekly segment: "Anything But Politics" The lunar eclipse - what makes the "the blood worm moon" special. Researchers may have discovered nature's "Ozempic" and ... “Paris Fashion Week” may have forecast the next "big" thing: shoulder pads. Sign up for our free weekend digest to get this report and a few other treats delivered to your inbox: https://smarthernews.com/weekend-digest/ Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Op...
Mar 14, 2025•11 min
A complex intersection of free speech, national security, and immigration law - we take a closer look at the case of Mahmoud Khalil, a former Columbia University student and legal permanent resident, detained by the US government, and the background and potential legal precedents that could arise. What do you think about this case? SUPPORT OUR MISSION Shop our gear! If you’d like to help support SmartHER News’ mission of a free, independent, nonpartisan press – here’s how you can become a SCOOP ...
Mar 13, 2025•9 min
A sudden outbreak of violence in Syria sparked headlines around the world raising questions about the targeted killing of minority groups - including Christians. But with so few independent journalists on the ground, what really happened? War correspondent and writer Hollie McKay shares her sources directly from Syria, and explains why this conflict has the potential to have worldwide impact. WHAT IS HTS? https://www.dni.gov/nctc/ftos/hts_fto.html SUPPORT OUR MISSION Shop our gear! If you’d like...
Mar 12, 2025•16 min
Five years ago, on this day, the World Health Organization characterized COVID-19 a "pandemic." Now, the United States has started the process of withdrawing from the WHO. How do we connect the dots between these two points? A few news items for your consideration including an exclusive report from The Wall Street Journal about a potential meeting between President Trump and President Xi. SUPPORT OUR MISSION Shop our gear! If you’d like to help support SmartHER News’ mission of a free, independe...
Mar 11, 2025•8 min
Congress & state legislature eye new laws to keep (or stop) daylight saving time. (Yes, you can also say "daylights savings" ... Merriam-Webster says it's ok ) Plus ~ What Pres. Trump really said about our chances of recession; what to know about your $20 million in taxpayer money for Sesame Street in the Middle East; an important constitutional caveat when it comes to the Department of Education. And five years since the World Health Organization declared a pandemic for COVID-19. Show Notes...
Mar 10, 2025•1 hr 9 min
Will the "woolly mouse" lead to the next "woolly mammoth"? Take a listen to our latest quick hit - "Anything But Politics." Scientists Have Bred Woolly Mice on Their Journey to Bring Back the Mammoth UK Natural History Museum Colossal Biosciences SUPPORT OUR MISSION Shop our gear! If you’d like to help support SmartHER News’ mission of a free, independent, nonpartisan press – here’s how you can become a SCOOP insider: https://www.scoop.smarthernews.com/get-the-inside-scoop/ Instagram: https://ww...
Mar 07, 2025•5 min
Confused about tariffs? We gotta Guy for that! Investor, stock market analyst and host, Guy Adami, joins us to discuss the quickly changing stock market, U.S. economy, inflation and what to watch for next. SUPPORT OUR MISSION Shop our gear! If you’d like to help support SmartHER News’ mission of a free, independent, nonpartisan press – here’s how you can become a SCOOP insider: https://www.scoop.smarthernews.com/get-the-inside-scoop/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smarthernews/ Website: ht...
Mar 06, 2025•12 min
A quick hit on the longest joint address to Congress in modern times. President Trump delivers a sweeping speech: What To Know. What To Note. What Questions To Ask Next. And Why It All Matters. Link To Full Speech SUPPORT OUR MISSION Shop our gear! If you’d like to help support SmartHER News’ mission of a free, independent, nonpartisan press – here’s how you can become a SCOOP insider: https://www.scoop.smarthernews.com/get-the-inside-scoop/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smarthernews/ Web...
Mar 05, 2025•9 min
Did you know the Constitution does not stipulate how a president should provide Congress a "state of the union"? In the future, we may see a pre-edited video speech, or even get the update delivered via text! But THIS year, Pres. Trump plans to appear in person, following a long line of traditions set by those who came before him. A quick hit to get you prepped and ready for the big speech on a big night! SUPPORT OUR MISSION Shop our gear! If you’d like to help support SmartHER News’ mission of ...
Mar 04, 2025•7 min
A "mini" SCOOP from our Insider Broadcast! War correspondent Hollie McKay joins us to take the historic exchange between President Trump, and President Zelenskyy, frame-by-frame, providing deeper context for what appears on the surface. Hollie McKay website & substack If you’d like to help support SmartHER News’ mission of a free, independent, nonpartisan press – here’s how you can become a SCOOP insider: https://www.scoop.smarthernews.com/get-the-inside-scoop/ Instagram: https://www.instagr...
Mar 03, 2025•41 min
Could we be witnessing the rise of America's next big film studio? Listen to this conversation with the CEO of the Wonder Project, Kelly Hoogstraten, and decide for yourself. The first series, "House of David" premiered this week in 240 countries, in 35 languages, bringing the epic story of David vs. Goliath (and beyond) to screens everywhere. Link to House of David: Amazon Prime SUPPORT OUR MISSION Shop our gear! If you’d like to help support SmartHER News’ mission of a free, independent, nonpa...
Mar 01, 2025•13 min
How to navigate this overwhelming news cycle - perspective from 20-years of news coverage! Clarity amidst chaos when it comes to the latest on egg prices, Ukraine (and those "rare earth" minerals), President Trump's first cabinet meeting and the measles outbreak in Texas. Link to our previous podcast on "rare earths" - CLICK HERE SUPPORT OUR MISSION Shop our gear! If you’d like to help support SmartHER News’ mission of a free, independent, nonpartisan press – here’s how you can become a SCOOP in...
Feb 28, 2025•9 min
Minerals for missiles? Or minerals for peace? Why everyone is talking about these "rare earths" minerals related to the war in Ukraine. What you should know. Why it matters. What's at stake. SHOW NOTES: WSJ PIECE: https://www.wsj.com/world/ukraine-open-to-trumps-idea-to-exchange-aid-for-rare-earthsbut-theres-a-catch-6f817838?st=D2WzoQ&reflink=desktopwebshare_permalink BBC PUTIN REFERENCE: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4gdx7488g5o GOOD CBS ARTICLE AND MAP: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/uk...
Feb 27, 2025•5 min
The rise of train robberies in the U.S., the ongoing mystery of Malaysia Airlines Flight 370, and the implications of new DNA technology in the Long Island serial killer case - three mysteries with big questions and few answers. Each topic highlights the intersection of crime, technology, and the quest for justice. SUPPORT OUR MISSION Shop our gear! If you’d like to help support SmartHER News’ mission of a free, independent, nonpartisan press – here’s how you can become a SCOOP insider: https://...
Feb 26, 2025•6 min
Minerals for missiles? Or minerals for peace? Why everyone is talking about these "rare earths" minerals related to the war in Ukraine. What you should know. Why it matters. What's at stake. SUPPORT OUR MISSION Shop our gear! If you’d like to help support SmartHER News’ mission of a free, independent, nonpartisan press – here’s how you can become a SCOOP insider: https://www.scoop.smarthernews.com/get-the-inside-scoop/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smarthernews/ Website: https://smarthern...
Feb 26, 2025•5 min
Key insights from the "Oracle of Omaha" Warren Buffett on the importance of addressing mistakes, the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, and recent (historic) layoffs at Starbucks. SUPPORT OUR MISSION Shop our gear! If you’d like to help support SmartHER News’ mission of a free, independent, nonpartisan press – here’s how you can become a SCOOP insider: https://www.scoop.smarthernews.com/get-the-inside-scoop/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smarthernews/ Website: https://smartherne...
Feb 25, 2025•8 min
Former Moscow correspondent David Satter joins our insider community to provide unique insight on Russia's war with Ukraine as we mark three years of the conflict. In 2013, David became the first American journalist expelled from Russia since the Cold War. As a reporter, author and scholar he continues to write and speak widely on Russian-U.S. affairs. David provides invaluable perspective on many topics including the following: · What is Russian disinformation? · What does the West not understa...
Feb 24, 2025•1 hr 35 min
Let's roll! We cover a few of this week's key stories - including the rising prices of eggs due to bird flu, a measles outbreak in Texas, and the emergence of a new spy agency in Russia. Plus ~ our gratitude for you as we mark 7 years of SmartHER News! SUPPORT OUR MISSION Shop our gear! If you’d like to help support SmartHER News’ mission of a free, independent, nonpartisan press – here’s how you can become a SCOOP insider: https://www.scoop.smarthernews.com/get-the-inside-scoop/ Instagram: http...
Feb 21, 2025•11 min
Misconceptions and constitutional questions swirl around the role of "DOGE" in light of the latest Trump administration job cuts and cost cutting measures. We cover the lesser known facts about DOGE that may become major factors in future legal battles; Did you know DOGE has no official executive leader? And that it actually replaced another "start up" launched under President Obama? Facts that will matter as we cover one of your most asked about stories. SUPPORT OUR MISSION Shop our gear! If yo...
Feb 20, 2025•6 min
Pilot and Aviation Expert Scott Pattillo has spent more than 45 years flying, fighter jets to commercial airlines. He joins us to discuss the latest spate of plane incidents, including a plane accident in Toronto that sent a plane sliding to a stop upside down. Is it safe to fly? SUPPORT OUR MISSION Shop our gear! If you’d like to help support SmartHER News’ mission of a free, independent, nonpartisan press – here’s how you can become a SCOOP insider: https://www.scoop.smarthernews.com/get-the-i...
Feb 19, 2025•12 min
