

SmartHERNews
Jenna Lee
Life is too short to waste time filtering through headlines searching for the facts. That’s when we realized the need for a quick, trustworthy news source that makes staying up-to-date easy and interesting. Our Goal is to Clear the Clutter. We’re committed to providing non-partisan news, in small servings, available wherever you are, whenever you want it. And for the Record: We Believe You’re Already Smart. We don’t need to tell you what to think or how to feel or what to believe. We just want to equip you with clear facts so you’re prepared for any conversation, any vote, any choice and never feel like you’re falling behind. Bullet-Points Without The Bias ~ We’re bringing you #SmartHERNews. SmartHER News is created and hosted by journalist Jenna Lee.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 4, 2024 • 42min
SCOOP: Breaking News From The Supreme Court
Monday morning, the Supreme Court handed down a decision on a simmering case – answering a key question once and for all: Can a state, citing the U.S. Constitution, keep a presidential candidate off a state's ballot? The Supremes said, "No!", deciding AGAINST Colorado in a unanimous decision – reversing the Colorado's Supreme Court decision that argued the 14th amendment empowered the state to keep former Pres. Donald Trump off the state's ballot. 0:00: The big headline out of the Supreme Court. 4:00: Clearing our palate for more political news: Will "Wendy's" use surge pricing? (BTW – Wendy's backtracked on this a few days later ... LINK). 8:00: Why Super Tuesday matters. 10:00: The State of the Union (on Thursday). 16:00: We dig deep into the Supreme Court ruling: The decision. The perspectives. And what to watch for next. 18:00: What is the 14th Amendment? The backstory from Colorado. 24:00: Why did Justices Sotomayor, Kagan and Jackson AGREE with the decision BUT offer a critique. 29:00: What Justice Barrett says on the issue: "All nine Justices agree on the outcome of this case. That is the message Americans should take home." 37:00: What matters most for the American voters – the past or the future? We'd love you to consider supporting quick, concise, nonpartisan SmartHER News by becoming an insider on SCOOP or shopping in our SmartHER shop! Thank you for helping build a solution in news! scoop.smarthernews.com smarthernews.com/shop and our email: hello@smarthernews.com Show Notes: Wendy's dynamic pricing BTW Wendy's pushed back their "dynamic pricing" announcement - said it WOULD not use "surge" pricing. The Supreme Court decision Ford's pardoning of NixonSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/smarthernews/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Feb 26, 2024 • 49min
SCOOP: Who Will "Set The Rules For The World"?
Expelled journalist David Satter crystallizes the stakes of our current times when he shares with us his concerns about a "coalition of criminal regimes trying to set the rules for the world." We use THIS as the backdrop to your inside SCOOP for the week ahead. Your Rundown: 0:00: NEW MUSIC! Many thanks to andrewlinnmusic.com 4:00: What's going on with the potential partial government shutdown? 8:00: The latest on the presidential elections. We hear from candidates former President Donald Trump and former SC Governor Nikki Haley. 17:00: What does Pres. Trump's lead looks like and questions re: Haley's strategy. 23:00: Expelled journalist David Satter brings us back down to Earth about what really matters. 28:00: What to know about the new decision from the Alabama Supreme Court on IVF. 42:00: We hear from Nicole – Thank you, Nicole! And a personal reflection from Jenna, xoNotice an ad-free conversation? We'd love you to consider supporting quick, concise, nonpartisan SmartHER News by becoming an insider on SCOOP or shopping in our SmartHER shop! Thank you for helping build a solution in news! scoop.smarthernews.com smarthernews.com/shop and our email: hello@smarthernews.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/smarthernews/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Feb 22, 2024 • 1h 14min
INTERVIEW: Vladimir Putin and the "Cult of Death"
From poisoning those who oppose him to encouraging what our guest calls a "cult of death" Vladimir Putin leads the country with the largest nuclear arsenal in the world —Russia. The controversial Russian president finds himself in the center of three storylines during this news cycle: 1. This week marks two years since Russia invaded Ukraine under Putin's direction, and ten years since Russia annexed Crimea (an area in southern Ukraine). 2. Last week, we learned of the murder Alexey Navalny, a high-profile opposition leader imprisoned under Putin’s regime. 3. Earlier this month, American host, Tucker Carlson, aired a high-publicized interview with President Putin, igniting headlines worldwide. Joining us is journalist and author, David Satter, who worked as a correspondent inside Russia during the fall of the Soviet Union and rise of Putin. In 2013, David became the first U.S. correspondent expelled from Russia since the Cold War. With incredible perspective on Russian life, and invaluable sources, David explains what most Americans don’t understand about the Russian leader and the Russian way of life, adding context and insight about this news cycle. This interview covers a lot of ground! Some key names/words: Yevgeny Prigozhin: The former leader of the Wagner Group – a mercenary military force connected to the Russian government. Despite a strong relationship with President Putin in the past, Prigozhin became critical of the war in Ukraine and eventually led a revolt against Putin in 2023 that Putin deterred. Prigozhin died several months later, in a plane accident often suspected as a murder orchestrated by Putin. Alexey Navalny: A high-profile opposition leader against Pres. Vladmir Putin, who not only pursued political office in Russia but published investigative work exposing what he believed to be the corruption of the Putin regime. Malaysian Airlines Flight 17: A civilian flight traveling from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur, July 17, 2014, carrying 283 people and 15 crew. The Boeing 777 flew over eastern Ukraine – an area of conflict between Russia and Ukraine – and a rocket shot it down, killing all 298 people on board. Later reports blamed Russia and Vladimir Putin. Evan Gershkovich: An American journalist imprisoned in Russia. Gershkovich lived in Russia and reported for The Wall Street Journal. During a reporting trip on March 29th, Russian security forces arrested him; Pres. Putin said Gershkovich acquired classified information. MORE ON SMARTHERNEWS.COMSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/smarthernews/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Feb 19, 2024 • 31min
Special Report: The Farewell Address
The power of President George Washington's parting words. Wait until you hear what President Washington had to say about patriotism, partisanship, and America's role in the world. In 1796, President Washington faced a difficult decision: He knew he did not want to serve another term as president. He felt both confident in the foundation of the new United States of America, yet concerned about the future. So, Pres. Washington used the press to speak directly to the people - announcing his retirement from public service and encouraging (and warning) the new nation in a carefully crafted essay. His 7,000+ word "Farewell Address" published in a Philadelphia newspaper in September of 1796 continues to inspire generations of Americans, igniting deep questions about the strength of the federal government, the threat of regionalism and partisanship, and the tribulations of foreign affairs. Jenna provides an overview of how America has paid tribute to President Washington - by honoring his birthday (now often celebrated as "Presidents Day") and by carrying on his parting words, highlighting the U.S. Senate's annual tradition of reading his Farewell Address. What do you think about the Farewell Address? Here's a link if you want to read it in full. We're looking forward to your thoughts: hello@SmartHERNews.com Please share, save, and like our podcast content. Your support of SmartHER News fuels our mission to deliver quick, concise, nonpartisan news. We appreciate you so much! SCOOP for our insiders Our Shop! Our websiteSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/smarthernews/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Feb 12, 2024 • 47min
SCOOP: Should We Take "Super Bowl Monday" Off?
New legislation in the state of Tennessee lobbies for replacing Columbus Day with "Super Bowl Monday" – Should other states follow suit? Do we all need a "late start" after the Super Bowl? We report. You relax! We got your covered for the week ahead. Your cheat sheet on big events that happened while millions watched the "Big Game": The SecDef returns to the hospital; Deputy takes lead. (5:00) The Senate advances foreign aid legislation; border details remain absent. (6:30) "Victory is within reach" says Israel Prime Minister Netanyahu on a new offensive in a southern city in Gaza – a key area housing many evacuees. (9:00) Your cheat sheet on three big legal cases that may impact the rest of 2024: Questions remain about whether former President Trump's team will appeal to the Supreme Court a lower court decision that the former President can face criminal prosecution. (approx. 16:30) The Supreme Court hears a case that could keep former President Trump off the ballot in the state of Colorado. (21:00) A special counsel concludes President Biden should face no charges related to his handling of classified documents, but the issue of age and competency overshadows the current president's statement about the investigation. (30:30) What would you like more of from SmartHER News? We look forward to hearing your thoughts or your news questions: scoop@SmartHERNews.com Thank you for your continued support of SCOOP! If you're listening for the first time, consider joining us LIVE and supporting a free press, checking out our SmartHER Shop or simply telling a friend about SmartHERNews.com Legislation in Tennessee: LINK Proposal to turn 'Super Bowl Monday' into an official holiday is on the table in one state Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/smarthernews/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Feb 5, 2024 • 1h 12min
SCOOP: Lunch With The Leader of an Iranian-Backed Militia
Special Coupon For SCOOP listeners Use Jenna20 for 20% off of designs at Liz James Designs - an Austin-based, American-made jewelry designer. Coupon good through Wednesday February 7th for delivery before Valentine's Day! ------ What did the leader of an Iranian-backed militia tell war correspondent Hollie McKay over lunch? Hollie joins us with her reflections on what she learned meeting the baseball-cap wearing man in a Baghdad restaurant (hint: he described one of the militia's goals as revenge on America). Show Notes: 0:00 - 5:00: Quick reflections on Tracy Chapman and Luke Combs at the Grammys - and the new "concert trick" - venues and artists locking your phone away. 5:00: Report: The Biden Administration wants to tackle grocery story prices. 7:30: What to know about the new border deal. What stands out. What matters. Why critics have already raised their voices in opposition. What to watch for. 17:00 Hollie McKay joins us with her 4-month old Raven to discuss her unique reporting in Iraq that takes us to the rise of "Iranian-backed militia." Terms To Know: Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF): The umbrella group of Iranian-backed militia operating in Iraq. Kata’ib Sayyid al-Shuhada (KSS): An Iranian-backed militia - just one group that remains part of PMF. Hollie sits down with the leader that oversees this group. Qassim Soleimani: Infamous Iranian military leader - Head of the notorious and elite QUDS force of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard (Iran's military). Killed by America in a drone strike. Hollie writes in detail on her lunch - here: https://holliesmckay.substack.com?utm_source=navbar&utm_medium=web Here's Hollie's website which features her books, and her new venture: The Stretch System ---- Thank you for keeping SmartHER News independent and ad-free. Join our LIVE conversations and receive a prep-sheet for the week ahead in your inbox every Monday: Get The Inside SCOOP Always more: SmartHERNews.com Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/smarthernews/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Jan 29, 2024 • 44min
SCOOP: Americans Killed In Action; Seeking New Eyes On Old Problems
What new eyes do we need on old challenges to create solutions? We ask this question as we look at two of the biggest developing headlines this week - American service members killed in action in the Middle East by Iranian-backed militants and the ongoing coverage of the U.S. borders. A few highlights: 2:45: A former Air Force Intel officer says he may have discovered Amelia Earthart's plane 11:15: Why do we use the term "Iranian-backed" militants? 19:40: Our guest tells us that the UN nuclear watchdog agency says it is being "held hostage" by Iran, unable to provide oversight on the nuclear program belonging to the U.S. designated state-sponsor of terror. 23:40 What do the new border numbers tell us about the state of affairs specifically at the U.S. southern border and who really has oversight - the federal government or the state? Plus ~ a personal tribute to a man who always wore a smile and knew how to show up. Show Notes: Is This Amelia Earhart’s Long-Lost Plane? (via WSJ) Good Write-Up on attack in Jordan (plus maps) via Reuters: What is Tower 22, US military base attacked in Jordan? Customs and Border Protection raw numbers on the border With love to Joseph Libonati (my friend who I mentioned at the end): Obituary Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/smarthernews/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Jan 22, 2024 • 46min
SCOOP: Curiosity Over Commentary For The Win
Why does New Hampshire matter in American politics (and particularly this election season)? What's missing from our reporting on the Middle East? How should you approach LONG Covid? We tackle news on each topic, but first Jenna shares a personal story that inspired this broadcast ~ a conversation with her 9 year-old son about football reminds us all why "curiosity over commentary" matters. PLUS: 10:00: Who will sing the Star-Spangled Banner? 13:00: Why does New Hampshire matter in American politics? 23:00: Behind-The-Scenes: The editorial challenges of editing political figures. 25:00: Nikki Haley's new attack line. Will it work? 27:00: What's missing from our reporting in the Middle East? 36:00: How should we all approach Long Covid? 40:00: Holly asks: How should one consider third party candidates? Thank you for your continued support of SCOOP! If you're listening for the first time, consider joining us LIVE and supporting a free press! P.S. Our audio is usually a little clearer - we had a microphone hiccup this week! #MondayBlues :) Sign-up for our FREE weekend newsletter: The Weekend SCOOP Shop our SmartHER Shop & Amazon storefront of SmartHER Items Interesting Show Notes: Background from the AP on the terorrist groups operating in the Middle East Maps to the New Hampshire Primary Polling A guide to the Middle East in 6 maps: WSJ Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/smarthernews/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Jan 16, 2024 • 43min
SCOOP: Two Navy SEALS Lost At Sea – Plus: What Happened In Iowa
We’re joined by author, political commentator, and self-described “center right disaffected” journalist, Mary Katharine Ham to break down the Iowa caucuses. 2:30: Vivek Ramaswamy leaves the race for the nomination 5:00: Mary Katharine Ham joins us with analysis about Iowa and what to watch in the future. 7:00: The key takeaways from Iowa. 10:00: What appears to be the main issue for voters. 17:00: Is the 2024 field officially "set"? 24:00 Why you can't rely on "normal" political indicators. (Thank you to Jessica Jimenez for the question). 28:00: Tara’s Question: How will removing former President Trump from the ballot impact the early races? ** Email us: SCOOP@SmartHERNews.com with your voice memos! ** 33:00 The story to watch: Why multiple roads lead to Iran. Navy SEALS board a ship transporting Iranian weapons to the Houthis; two operators go missing at sea. Hamas: a designated terrorist group backed by Iran launched a terrorist attack in Israel, a key American ally. Hezbollah: terrorist group backed by Iran fires on Israel, responding to Israel's war with Hamas. Houthi: formerly designated terrorist group backed by Iran, harrasses ships in solidarity with Hamas. Iranian-backed militia attack U.S. positions in Iraq, Syria more than 130 times in the last several weeks after Hamas launched a terrorist attack. Some have warned of a regional conflict – but has one already started? How could this story change the image of American leadership for U.S. voters? ~~~ Thank you for your support of SmartHER News - join us as a SCOOP insider and support a free press! Sign-up for our FREE weekend newsletter: The Weekend SCOOP Shop our SmartHER Shop & Amazon storefront of SmartHER Items Show Notes: Mary Katharine Ham: Social Media: X Getting Hammered Her Book: End of Discussion Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/smarthernews/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Jan 8, 2024 • 50min
SCOOP: A Mystery Rocks The Pentagon – Plus: Why Air Travelers Should Buckle Their Babies
Did you know an airplane's cockpit recorder only keeps two hours of data before erasing, and starting over? Just one of the many interesting facts we learned today prepping for SCOOP and covering an accident impacting Alaska Airlines (and beyond). We catch-up on: The flu (rising respiratory infections nationwide)! The potential government shutdown (and a potential deal in the works on two fronts). The presidential election (and the first major votes cast next week). The Pentagon and the mysterious state of the SecDef's health. The Department of Justice's priority this year. And a question: If you could prioritize any topic in the news, what would it be? Email us or better yet, record a voice memo and send it to SCOOP@SmartHERNews.com. Thank you for keeping us ad-free and independent! Support us by checking out our SmartHER Shop or joining SCOOP and becoming part of our live audience! Show Notes: Flu Surveillance: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/index.htm Border Encounters: https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/stats/nationwide-encounters NTSB presser on Alaska Airlines flight: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0jeO5fwRXLo Pentagon Press Release: https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3633580/statement-from-pentagon-press-secretary-maj-gen-pat-ryder-on-secretary-austins/ Dept. of Justice: https://www.justice.gov/opa/video/attorney-general-merrick-b-garland-meets-law-enforcement-components-address-violent-crime Good Political Calendar: https://www.cnn.com/election/2024/calendar Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/smarthernews/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy