More than 20 stories claim to have inspired Memorial Day, so which one is the "right" one? We take a closer look at the holiday honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice and the remarkable journey to our shared traditions.

Spotlight

Origins of Memorial Day

I was honored to write the cover story for

 for their May Women's issue. Although we likely live in different communities, I think this message resonates regardless of geography and it just feels right to share it on Mothers' Day weekend! I think of us 

 as pioneers, on the frontier of a new age in journalism. Thank you for being an invaluable part of this journey. ❤

I often look out across the land of Dripping Springs and wonder what these Oak trees have seen — curious about the stories of souls who have passed underneath their branches on foot, or horseback, or a Ford F-350 Super Duty pick-up truck. I think of the women, who in wool dresses in the middle of summer, cooked over an open fire, and I marvel at the strategy and skill required to simply feed a family (without “Dino Nuggets” or running water). I drift to thoughts of loss, grit and the hard days that many experienced — and the immense courage and hope in the future that must have pulsed through their veins like the inspired freshwater springs here — cool and steady — magnifying during those moments where the night of heartbreak felt all too dark and the quiet light of dawn all too far away.

What a life so many forged here to follow their dreams.

100 years ago, on this same land, families emerged from war and pandemic, charting a way forward. 100 years later, we share this familiar storyline — in many ways different but still confronting those same timeless questions ranging from the daily (“Mom, what’s for dinner?”) to the deep: “What truly makes us FREE?”

We find ourselves in a developing story and that’s why good journalism matters.

And also why it needs to come from somewhere in the middle.

Here in Dripping Springs, I live almost equidistant between my two previous lives — 1740 miles to the rolling, fog-laced hometown of San Francisco and 1768 miles from the screaming streets and electric lights of New York City. The contrast of these experiences leaves me more disoriented than I would like to admit.

I’m Texan by marriage. Six years ago, when we moved suddenly to the Hill Country, I had never heard of “Dripping Springs.” But the place and the people have changed my life forever at such a critical chapter.

I wish I could report to you a smooth transition, but the reality is best expressed by a treasured gift I received from special friends here, Todd and Megan White — a painting of Todd’s interpretation of Dorothy from “The Wizard of Oz,” falling from the sky — with heavy lashes and red heels against a bright, floral graffiti background. She looks how I have so often felt, tumbling into Texas in an unexpected plot twist.

Working as a national news anchor in New York City wasn’t my original goal. I wanted to work as a broadcast journalist, but it didn’t seem probable. After graduating with a master’s degree in journalism, I was rejected from most jobs I applied for across the country (including Texas), but right when I decided to accept whatever came next, word spread of a new television network launching in Manhattan — a network looking for “fresh” faces — and in a moment, my rejection became a blessing. I anchored the first broadcast of the Fox Business Network and three years later, co-hosted my own two-hour weekday show on the Fox News Channel.

I worked on the national stage for a decade — until I chose to walk away in 2017. And that happened due to two important roads converging.

The news changed. My show covered news of the day or “straight” news — breaking headlines, live reports and interviews on a variety of topics, from the weather to scientific discoveries and politics (with balance). I loved learning, and sharing the news with our viewers; I felt especially helpful during chaotic and confusing times. But several years into the job, a slow-burn of anxiety started to keep me awake at night. The network was changing — as were so many others — investing in opinion programming, and prioritizing debate panels and commentary over the news. This concerned me, but it really bothered our audience, who regularly told me they wanted less arguing and more clarity on the key issues. I became increasingly alarmed about the future — and the survival of nonpartisan news for the people we promise, as journalists, to serve. I knew some difficult decisions lay ahead.

Separately, my view of women changed. My life entered a new level of joy AND complexity — I had two children aged two-and-under. My career supported our family as my husband built his new business. I felt the weight so many women shoulder, trying to balance it all. And despite all the discussion during the #MeToo movement, of which Fox News found itself at the center, none of the talk seemed to lead to practical solutions for women at work or at home. Many of my best friends — single women, stay-at-home moms, corporate bosses, young women — all felt the same about the news. They felt they did not have time, or the patience required to sort through the partisan press for what’s really happening; Even if they had a few minutes, they didn’t know who to turn to or who to trust. And consistently, they felt if they fell behind, they couldn’t catch-up (not only just in the news, but in life). I felt this way too and my experience put me in a unique position to help.

These revelations ignited a purpose to build a solution in news — something new, different and smarter.

Because women really matter — not because men matter less — but women matter in ways we don’t often directly discuss.

Regardless of region, religion, age or demographic, if you’re an American woman, you are arguably the most sought-after entity in the world. As the CEO of your household, you are the most attractive target for advertisers, and any company (like media giants) that thrive off those advertising dollars. You are the #1 consumer of goods in the #1 economy in the world. What a Fortune 500 CEO says about the state of business may momentarily shift the stock market, but what a busy mother buys at Target at 10 a.m. on Tuesday sends ripples through the global economy (and en masse, arguably more). More women vote than men, and vote at higher rates than men. Women can decide who gets elected and who stays in power, all the while *also* birthing and raising the next generation of leaders. Your actions as mothers, voters, and consumers have an outsized impact on not only the direction of America but the entire world.

Everyone, everywhere, wants your time, energy and attention. No wonder you’re exhausted!

Which makes prioritizing American women, and delivering news to them in an accessible way, critically important. So, I started with a basic premise: What would happen if the news industry put HER first?

Quick, concise, nonpartisan news for busy Americans.

Instead of trying to serve everyone all at once, I started with my peer group: The American woman. How could I structure the news so I could serve her better?

I thought of what I knew of my core consumer. When women go out to dinner, we order appetizers instead of entrees and share — so I’ll deliver news in a similar way: small bites of high quality, shareable information. If she can easily consume trustworthy news as a regular part of her online diet, news will become more seamless with her life and she’ll accumulate a lot of current event knowledge quickly over time. She doesn’t have to show up anywhere (not an hour, not a date, not another task) — we’ll exist on the platforms she uses most to serve her best — like Instagram — and be there when she needs us, or when she’s on her regular scroll. We’ll show respect through our fierce dedication to nonpartisanship — She doesn’t need another opinion; she is already smart. She just needs trustworthy information, a clear view of both sides of the story so she can make up her own mind and a reliable pathway to more information.

Our guiding light: curiosity over commentary.

I launched SmartHERNews.com in the living room of our first Texas home in Driftwood in 2018. It publishes online and across social media platforms, including to a quarter of a million Instagram followers. During certain news cycles, we reach an audience larger than my show on Fox News.

While the majority of our audience consists of women, turns out if you deliver nonpartisan news in a slightly different fashion, men like it too!

This sounds impressive, but this frontier remains wild and untamed. I struggle to wrap my hands around what I helped build, protect it and ensure it grows in a healthy way. In that way, entrepreneurship is like motherhood — with many peaks and valleys.

I remember a distinctly low moment in a Schlotzky’s bathroom on Highway 290 shortly after I moved to Texas, where I had my two toddlers, in need of a nap, hysterically crying in a metal bathroom stall — their screams echoing so loud that I literally sank to the ground and put my hands over my ears. I wanted to cry too but they both needed their diapers changed. When we walked out of the bathroom, sweaty and tear-stained, the whole place turned to stare at what was causing that racket. I looked up at the TV, broadcasting my old show, in a perfectly lit, air-conditioned studio.

At that moment I wondered: “What did I do?”

But I chose this chapter based on solid information.

I no longer work in a fancy studio, but I have my integrity. And on the hard days, that fact and the cappuccinos at 

We can’t choose certain parts of our story, but we can choose others. And that’s why a healthy, free press matters, so we’re fully equipped to make the choices we need as voters and citizens about the directions of our own lives.

We live in a unique country that despite all its challenges provides us opportunity to change and recreate our own stories over, and over, again — where a mother of three can broadcast from her home, reporting opposing viewpoints of those in power. Few places have such liberty.

If you walk across the bridge on Mercer Street, not far from the banks of Onion Creek, you can read a beautiful quote by historian Robert Shelton etched in stone.

“With a past firmly rooted in faith and civic pride, we face the future with confidence.“

It brings tears to my eyes, because that’s how I think of the here and now — the new and old stories intertwine like the roots from the trees that so often canopy above us. The oaks reach tall. The families stand strong. And the next chapter continues to develop with the frontier of possibilities stretching out before us as endless as the Texas sky.

🍃,


A New Frontier

On Wednesday, the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP, also known as "The Nation's Report Card") released results from their latest assessment which tested around 8,000 eighth-graders in U.S. history and 7,800 eighth-graders in civics during early 2022. The NAEP's last assessment in these subjects – which measures students understanding of government principals and the significance of civic participation – was given in 2018. 

On average, eighth-graders scored 150 out of 300 in civics, with only 22% of students at or above the NAEP's Proficient level in the subject (

). (See a graph of eighth-graders' past civic scores 

 On average, eighth-graders scored 258 out of 500 in U.S. history, with only 13% of the students scoring at or above the NAEP's proficient level (

). Since 2014, eighth-graders scores in U.S. history have declined. (See a graph of eighth-graders' past U.S. history scores 

"included open-ended questions that asked, for example, for students to name one advantage of having the government operate programs to provide for the needs of people, and to describe a way that political candidates use technology during political campaigns" (

 asks students to determine which of the following (in a provided list) is a right in the Constitution's Bill of Rights. 

 For perspective on how eighth-graders have historically scored in U.S. history and civics assessments by the NAEP, the average scores of eighth-graders tested in both U.S. history and civics have never reached at or above NAEP's proficient level since the organization began testing in these subjects in the 1990s. Of 2022's results, National Center for Education Statistics Commissioner Peggy Carr said,

 "Self-government depends on each generation of students leaving school with a complete understanding of the responsibilities and privileges of citizenship. But far too many of our students are struggling to understand and explain the importance of civic participation, how American government functions, and the historical significance of events." 

, where you can see the different questions asked for each grade level and for each subject tested by the organization – Test your knowledge! 

Highlights from the NAEP's U.S. History Assessment

Highlights from the NAEP's Civics Assessment

Read our report on the NAEP's recent assessment on reading and math scores for fourth- and eighth-graders 

How Do We Improve Our "Nation's Report Card"? 

A snippet from SCOOP! Is there a bigger story behind Tucker Carlson's departure from Fox News? Is the media "too big to fail"? Where is the line between personal freedom and freedom of the press? 

A snippet from SCOOP! Is there a bigger story behind Tucker Carlson's departure from Fox News? 

Tucker Carlson – Something To Consider 

Every week, our SCOOP insiders receive a special report. Our goal? You have a great foundation for the news week so you're 1) "in the know" and 2) can spend less time on social media/internet and more time on your owns story. We received 

 on this ruling that will allow the drug to stay on the market for now with new restrictions. The Supreme Court remains the possible next destination. 

Questions/Concerns? Let us know! And if you believe in SmartHER News – consider becoming an insider for about $1 a week: 

A quick cheat sheet on what to know about the so-called abortion pill and why it suddenly has burst onto center stage. 

Quick SCOOP: The "Abortion Pill" 

Why were two lawmakers expelled in Tennessee? Why does it matter? What's next? And something to consider as we ponder this week's news cycle.

Quick. Concise. Nonpartisan. Thank you for your support of SmartHER News!

Coffee Talk

A quick coffee talk on the big story as we end the week.

What Happened To The "Tennessee Three"? 

Grab a cup of coffee, bring your questions, concerns, and thoughts. This is a moment for a deep breath and a gentle review of this week's top story: the school shooting in Nashville. Jenna will report on the key facts, answer your questions, and provide some insight on a few of the most discussed headlines. A live event to both understand and decompress. ❤️

A deep breath and gentle review of this week's top story: The school shooting in Nashville.

Coffee Talk With Jenna

Inna provides a window into her life, professionally and personally, living at a time of war – mapping out what's at stake for her, her country and her 10-year-old son (who makes a special after-school appearance). 

To listen to this interview in podcast form, click 

A wide-ranging conversation with member of the Ukrainian parliament and mother, Inna Sovsun.

SmartHER From Inside A Country At War 

The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) caught many off-guard. Here's what you need to know and why it matters. 

The Second Largest Bank Collapse in U.S. History

"We just want to know the truth, and we want to know if our family is safe," 

explains Heather Beresford, one of four mothers who joined SmartHER News for a wide-ranging conversation from those who experienced the toxic train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, first hand. 

You'll hear from residents Heather, Misti, Kari, and Jess about their experiences from the night of the train derailment onwards — from scary moments, quick evacuations, and lingering concerns. 

Now, more than two weeks since the accident, all four have returned home but still have questions about the greater impact the derailment might continue to have on themselves, their families and their community at large. 

It’s a truly eye-opening conversation and provides some SmartHER lessons about what to consider in the event of a major emergency in your own hometown.

 or tap screen below - Also available on podcasting platforms everywhere or 

Photo cred: Misti Allison, February 3, 2023, East Palestine, Ohio

Ohio’s Toxic Train Derailment

"Our men and women in uniform should not be paying for the weapons being designed to kill them." 

Just one of many revelations from author and analyst Gordon Chang in this wide-ranging interview on America's current state of affairs with China, including how Gordon says some investment funds for U.S. government workers are actually going to support Chinese companies working against America. 

Listen to this interview on podcasting platforms everywhere 

Listen to why Gordon believes the world has never been closer to a nuclear exchange than now ... and what we can all do to stop it. 

BTW - follow Gordon on Twitter - Gordon "G" Chang: 

If you want to be part of the next live audience for interviews like this, join 

 - for less than a price of a latte, you get the SCOOP on this week's news and become part of getting the SCOOP on a whole range of issues, like China: 

SmartHER With Gordon Chang: Beyond China's Spy Balloon

What we learned about the latest jobs report.

How Are Layoffs Counted? 

A once “high-valued” detainee was released from Gitmo this week. 

Will Gitmo finally close? Is it an example of the American justice system “working” or its ineffectiveness? 

Writer & war correspondent Hollie McKay joins us to talk about her recent trip to the home of infamous prison… and shares a very unique interaction with one of Gitmo’s most famous former prisoners.

A once "high value" detainee "resettled" - Will the notorious prison finally close?

Inside Gitmo with Hollie McKay

What Is Happening At The Northern Border?

SmartHER with author Nicole Modic of "Kale Junkie"

We start a new series - "SmartHER With ..." and Nicole Modic is our first guest! The food blogger, recipe developer and author left a successful career in law to follow her passion, innovating better, easier, and smarter ways for us to enjoy food. Nicole honestly shares her backstory, and the many challenges she confronted on her path to this chapter. You will LOVE her tips and tricks!

SmartHER With ...

Available on podcasting platforms everywhere or this 

REPORT ON SUPREME COURT LEAK

a glossary of important terms, places, people to know (we flag the stories to know so you’re never caught off guard) 

first looks and special discounts on our partnerships and gear!

And this exclusive report -This is the YouTube version (audio/podcast is also available)

Sneak Peek At SCOOP

For GOP, Speaker’s Battle Mirrors National Disagreement Over Trump-Style Leadership: 

“I don’t know if I have health care, I don’t know if my staff get paid. We’re looking at all of that now because this hasn’t happened for 100 years.”

The 12th vote for House speaker looks different... Here's the important info! 

House Speaker Vote: Progress or "Progress" 

Historic Vote for House Speaker

The Historic Vote for Speaker of the House

**This interview was recorded in 2021 but still very much focuses on the history of the moment**

Here's the link for podcast on Apple Itunes

 (also can be found on other podcasting platforms like 

By Christmas 1776, General Washington finds himself in a desperate position. Only a few months into the Revolutionary War, he has experienced a string of crushing defeats and privately admits the cause for liberty may be all but lost. Despite duress and great uncertainty, Gen. Washington makes a fateful decision to go on the offense, driving his troops through snow and ice for a surprise attack that changes the course of history. Historian Clay Craighead of Washington Crossing State Park joins us to share his 30+ year knowledge on the "game saving" decision in America's quest for independence.

An interview that brings fresh perspective to the holiday.

America's Christmas Miracle

Two months after the death of a young woman in government custody, Iran remains aflame with protests. The best information available points to hundreds dead and thousands under arrest as those in power attempt to secure their positions through brutal force and violence; an individual detained in connection to the demonstrations (that the government calls "riots" ignited by the West) was just sentenced to death. Will this set the precedent for mass executions? What's next?

Senior Fellow for nonpartisan think tank, the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, 

, joins us with what to watch, why it matters and how Iran fits into a modern "axis of evil."

Podcast available on platforms everywhere including 

If you like interviews like this and you would like to support a free press, 

 – a special report with a balanced serving of headlines that provides a cheat sheet for the week ahead (and previews of interviews just like this). Can't wait to see you there! 

Two months after the death of a young woman in govt. custody, Iran remains aflame with protests. 

Iran: What's Next

The big question from the Midterms – What does effective American leadership really look like? And who TRULY has a mandate from the American people? Looking forward to your responses to this Instagram live we filmed 12 hours into the day after the Midterms. While results continue to trickle in, here are three big takeaways from the 2022 elections and a few races we're watching.

Listen on podcasting platforms everywhere under 

Big Picture: Thinking about the language we use on the news...
.


 The #1 takeaway from the midterms right now: We don't have final answers; things are changing constantly.
.


 "The Red Wave Was More Like a Pink Splash" ~ Time Magazine. What is a "red wave"?
.


 So far, there's no clear directive or clear mandate for whoever got into office ... There's very little data to be able to say to someone, "You have the key for really galvanizing voters!"
.


Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida: Why his race matters.
.


 What happened in Maricopa County, Arizona?
.


 The governor's race in New York: Lee Zeldin (R) vs. Kathy Hochul (D).
.


A question for you, what we're watching, and closing thoughts. 

Thank you for your support of SmartHER News!

Is America More Divided Or More Balanced? 

The Midterms 

A live interview on RSV, flu, and protecting yourself and your family. Flu season arrived early this year, along with heightened concern about RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) – a virus that can impact young children. With doctors issuing warnings about what's on the horizon and hospitals setting up additional resources, what should we know? Pulmonologist and critical care physician Dr. Rutland takes your questions and provides invaluable perspective for how to stay healthy this winter. 

BTW – as we recorded this interview, officials in Orange County, California, declared a public health emergency due to a spike in respiratory illnesses for children.

RSV, flu, and protecting yourself and your family.

Quick. Concise. Nonpartisan.

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