SmartHERNews

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Rating
4.9
from
653 reviews
This podcast has
484 episodes
Language
Publisher
Explicit
No
Date created
2018/06/06
Latest episode
2026/04/22
Average duration
42 min.
Release period
4 days

Description

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.

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Can AI Be Charged With a Crime? The ChatGPT Investigation Explained + Why AI Scams Are Surging
2026/04/22
Can AI be held responsible for a crime?In this episode, Jenna breaks down a surprising move by Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier, who announced a criminal investigation into OpenAI and ChatGPT following a tragic shooting at Florida State University.At the center of the case: a new legal theory — if an AI chatbot “aids, abets, or counsels” a crime, could a company be held criminally liable?Jenna explains how this idea challenges long-standing internet protections under Section 230, and why more state-level cases are testing the limits of tech accountability.You’ll also hear:OpenAI’s response and what the company says it didWhy this case could reshape how we view AI: tool vs. participantKey takeaways from a Capitol Hill hearing on AI-driven scams, fraud, and cybercrimeHow criminals are already using AI for phishing, deepfakes, ransomware, and moreThe growing debate: innovation vs. public safetyPlus: Jenna walks through the three biggest questions this story raises — and why they matter right now.00:00 Cold Open Chat00:09 Florida AG Investigation01:50 Section 230 Explained03:00 Aiding And Abetting Theory04:47 OpenAI Response And Other Cases06:08 Is AI Search Or Partner07:11 Capitol Hill AI Crime Hearing11:45 Three Big Questions13:40 Guardrails And Alcohol Analogy15:13 Closing Thoughts Rita Peters
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MidEast Tensions, Missing Scientists & An Often Forgotten Story Brought Back Into The Spotlight
2026/04/20
Jenna previews an unpredictable news week, highlighting uncertainty over planned U.S.-Iran talks in Pakistan as the ceasefire deadline nears. Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz continue to climb after U.S. forces stopped and seized an Iranian vessel following hours of warnings, and questions about who is currently leading Iran’s government. She flags a Louisiana domestic shooting that’s received national attention - as the biggest major mass shooting in more than 2 years. She explains how terms like “mass shooting” and “mass killing” vary by definition and often exclude domestic or gang-related incidents. The episode also covers a federal probe into disappearances and deaths of people linked to sensitive U.S. sites, cautioning that some labeled “scientists” may not be, but that the case has now received heightened attention due to President Trump's comments.She updates a significant development in the Nancy Guthrie case as a hair DNA sample is transferred from a private Florida lab to the FBI. Finally, Jenna revisits the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing, its ties to extremist inspiration, and related news headlines today, in an unexpected way.00:00 Week Ahead Overview01:20 US Iran Talks Uncertain02:20 Strait Tensions Escalate04:32 Why Pakistan Hosts Talks - And Why That Matters06:21 Louisiana Family Shooting07:42 What Mass Shooting Means In The Press Vs. Law Enforcement11:30 Scientists Missing Probe14:19 Why You Should Exercise Caution When Reading Headlines15:16 Nancy Guthrie DNA Update19:32 Boston Bombing Remembered24:20 Iran Terror Links Explained31:19 Death Row And Appeals34:20 Wrap Up And Next StepsLove nonpartisan news? Want a bigger serving of the serious headlines?  Here’s how you can become a SCOOP insider: https://www.scoop.smarthernews.com/get-the-inside-scoop/   Shop our gear! https://smarthernews.com/shop/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smarthernews/ Website: https://smarthernews.com/
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Serial Killer Caught: The Backstory of A Surprise Guilty Plea
2026/04/15
 "The suburban dad next door who was also a serial killer" A serial killer admits to his crimes, but is justice served? We tackle that question and others in a wide-ranging conversation with investigative journalist Alexis Linkletter, who has covered this case for more than a decade and has poured several years into developing a podcast series on the mystery called, "Unraveled." Alexis recounts being in court as Rex Heuermann entered a guilty plea, admitting to being the Long Island serial killer.  She describes the intense scene, the victims’ families present, and Heuermann’s apathetic demeanor as he admitted to strangling eight victims. The discussion traces the case’s history from the 2010 discovery of remains and the impact of Suffolk County corruption, to the revived multi-agency task force under District Attorney Ray Tierney. Linkletter explains how an early tip about a green Chevy Avalanche, phone-location links, surveillance, and DNA from discarded items helped lead to Heuermann’s 2023 arrest. She highlights cutting-edge nuclear DNA testing of rootless hairs that passed an initial hearing, potentially opening doors for other cold cases not only in New York but other states as well. The episode previews the June sentencing, FBI Behavioral Science Unit interviews, possible additional victims, and CODIS (Combined DNA Index System) implications. Is justice done? We report. You decide. 00:00 Guilty Plea Shocker 01:13 Inside the Courthouse 02:28 What He Admitted To 03:41 Origins of the Case 04:04 Corruption and Coverups 06:36 Coincidence at Court 09:26 Centering the Victims 12:47 Cold Case Breakthrough 13:51 Task Force and DNA Trail 14:51 The Tip That Cracked It 18:01 Double Life Questions 19:26 Hearing the Confession 22:07 Why Plead Guilty 23:28 Family in the Fallout 24:02 Basement Crime Timeline 26:02 More Victims Questions 27:17 Asian Doe Clues 29:38 Rootless Hair Breakthrough 32:17 Admissibility Frye Hearing 34:14 Courtroom Demeanor 34:45 Why He Killed 38:00 Sentencing Stakes 38:30 FBI Behavioral Study 41:41 Justice And Victims 44:10 CODIS And Future Cases 46:22 Book Project Wrap Alexis LinkletterPodcast: Unraveled SUPPORT OUR MISSION: Love nonpartisan news? Want a bigger serving of the serious headlines?  Here’s how you can become a SCOOP insider: https://www.scoop.smarthernews.com/get-the-inside-scoop/    Shop our gear!  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smarthernews/  Website: https://smarthernews.com/  YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/smarthernews 
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The SCOOP: The Strait, Scandals and a Stunning Defeat
2026/04/13
Jenna previews a busy week of major stories, framed by Artemis astronaut Jeremy Hansen’s “Joy Train” message about teams regaining perspective and joy. Internationally, she clarifies reports about a U.S. “blockade” in the Strait of Hormuz, explaining Central Command describes actions focused on ships entering or exiting Iranian ports rather than blocking international waters, and notes the move follows failed U.S.-Iran talks in Pakistan centered on securing a long-term Iranian commitment not to pursue nuclear weapons, with Iran accusing the U.S. of shifting goalposts; oil prices remain elevated amid a ceasefire timeline. In Europe, Hungary’s longtime leader Viktor Orban suffers a “stunning defeat” to 45-year-old Peter Maygar, a centrist-right figure focused on the economy and anti-corruption, raising questions about shifts in alliances and conservatism. Domestically, allegations against Rep. Eric Swalwell lead him to exit California’s governor race as Congress debates rare expulsion moves that also involve Rep. Tony Gonzalez, while the First Lady publicly denies any relationship with Jeffrey Epstein and urges continued investigation amid disputes over former Attorney General Pam Bondi’s testimony. **UPDATE** ERIC SWALWELL released a statement on Monday around 5:15 est announcing his intention to resign from Congress. 00:00 Week Ahead Preview 00:27 Joy Train Mindset 02:21 Strait of Hormuz Blockade 05:41 Iran Talks and Nuclear Standoff 09:33 Oil Prices and Global Stakes 11:04 Hungary Election Shock 14:12 What Orban Loss Signals 17:39 Swalwell Scandal Fallout 22:09 Expulsion Push in Congress 27:41 Melania and Epstein Questions 31:20 Reporting Gray Areas 33:30 Artemis Wisdom and Signoff SUPPORT OUR MISSION: Love nonpartisan news? Want a bigger serving of the serious headlines?  Here’s how you can become a SCOOP insider: https://www.scoop.smarthernews.com/get-the-inside-scoop/    Shop our gear!  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smarthernews/  Website: https://smarthernews.com/  YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/smarthernews 
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Can the President Prosecute the Press? What Journalists Can (and Can’t) Be Forced to Reveal
2026/04/08
The President says he wants to go after those who leaked information about a rescue operation in Iran - Can he? Jenna takes you to a portion of a White House press conference that drew attention after the president blamed press reporting and a leaker for revealing a second missing airman during a rescue operation in Iran, saying the media company should give up the source “or go to jail.” She clarifies that while there is legal precedent for the government to pursue the leaker, she knows of no precedent for prosecuting a media organization for publishing accurate (or even inaccurate) information, and notes protections for journalists vary: most states have shield laws, but there is no federal shield law. She cites the Iraq War-era case in which New York Times journalist Judith Miller was jailed 85 days for contempt after refusing to reveal sources, but leads us to a larger ethical questions about reporting sensitive details during national security events.Plus - Jenna shares her grandfather's reporter's handbook - from his time embedded with U.S. forces during WWII.What do you think about his responsibilities as a member of the press?00:00 Press Freedom Question00:26 Trump Leak Threat Clip01:19 Rescue Mission Context03:36 Who Is He Targeting05:23 Journalist Protections Explained07:54 No Federal Shield Law08:34 Judith Miller Case Study11:27 State vs Federal Subpoenas14:15 Ethics vs Legality17:01 WWII Censorship Rules20:23 What Free Press Means Now21:15 Wrap Up and SupportLove nonpartisan news? Want a bigger serving of the serious headlines?  Here’s how you can become a SCOOP insider: https://www.scoop.smarthernews.com/get-the-inside-scoop/   Shop our gear! https://smarthernews.com/shop/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smarthernews/ Website: https://smarthernews.com/
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Rescued In Iran: What We Learned From The White House (And What’s Still Unanswered)
2026/04/07
Jenna recaps a 90-minute White House press conference that provided the first on-the-record details about the rescue of two U.S. Air Force crew members after an F-15 went down in hostile Iranian territory late Thursday/early Friday. Officials said both airmen ejected and landed separately; the pilot (Dude 44 Alpha) was located and rescued first, while the weapons systems officer (Dude 44 Bravo) was injured, evaded capture for more than a day in mountainous terrain, and was rescued Saturday night into Easter Sunday amid heavy enemy fire, with no U.S. casualties though some equipment was damaged. CIA Director John Ratcliffe described deploying human assets, “exquisite technologies,” and a deception campaign to misdirect Iranian forces. Jenna highlights key unanswered questions, including the mission/target, how Iran shot the jet down despite claimed air dominance, and details about the officer’s injuries, while noting President Trump’s Tuesday 8:00 PM Eastern deadline for an Iran deal and potential escalation. 00:00 Press Conference Preview 01:21 Why Iran Matters 05:27 Social Media Fog 07:18 Timeline From General Cain 10:53 Survival Behind Lines 14:25 Rescue Operation Details 17:20 CIA Role And Deception 22:54 Unanswered Press Questions 26:33 Deadline And Next Steps 31:30 Wrap Up And Press Rights SUPPORT OUR MISSION: Love nonpartisan news? Want a bigger serving of the serious headlines?  Here’s how you can become a SCOOP insider: https://www.scoop.smarthernews.com/get-the-inside-scoop/    Shop our gear!  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smarthernews/  Website: https://smarthernews.com/  YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/smarthernews 
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Nancy Guthrie Disappearance: 2 Months Later — Crime Expert Examines Key Clues
2026/04/02
Two months after the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, key questions remain unanswered.In this episode, Jenna interviews law enforcement and crime expert Morgan Wright to examine the biggest unknowns in the case, what investigators may be focusing on now, and why certain details continue to raise questions.We discuss:• what investigators may be prioritizing two months later• why a $1.2 million reward has not led to answers• whether the evidence suggests more than one person involved• how investigators evaluate vehicles and surveillance evidence• what this case may reveal about personal safety and preparedness• what could help move the investigation forwardThis expert conversation provides context on what we know, what remains unclear, and why the case continues to draw national attention.#NancyGuthrie #TrueCrime #MissingPerson #CrimeAnalysis #News #Investigation #MorganWrightTIMESTAMPS00:00 Assumptions In The Case 00:22 Meet Morgan Wright 03:02 Detective Work Basics 06:32 Who What Where When 07:29 Missing Pieces 10:17 Ransom And Early Statements 10:40 The First On The Record Remarks from Pima County's Sheriff Nanos 12:35 Bedroom Clues and Blood Trail 18:25 Press Conference Anomalies 22:24 Targeted Or Random 24:46 Motive and DNA Strategy 29:30 Smoking Gun Myth 30:03 Naming Suspects Too Soon 30:30 Ring Footage Timeline Confusion 32:12 Metadata and Physics Timeline 33:50 Why FBI Releases Evidence 35:05 How Many Offenders? 38:11 Camera Data Retention Limits 40:16 Neighbors Dogs and Outages 42:55 Debunking Wifi Jammer Claims 45:34 Abandoned House Speculation 48:40 Media Coverage and NBC Interview 50:05 Crime Scene Details Doors Blood 56:50 Ransom Notes and Withholding Info 01:00:50 Cruel Ransom Trolls 01:01:25 Proof of Life Standards 01:02:24 Why No Arrests Yet 01:03:33 NBC Drip Marketing 01:07:21 Ethics Over Programming 01:09:28 Security Cameras Done Right 01:11:39 Family Led Public Appeals 01:14:48 Give the Public a Mission 01:18:00 Actionable Home Security 01:23:52 Trust Your Gut 01:25:07 Wrap Up and Next StepsSUPPORT OUR MISSION: Love nonpartisan news? Want a bigger serving of the serious headlines?  Here’s how you can become a SCOOP insider: https://www.scoop.smarthernews.com/get-the-inside-scoop/    Shop our gear!  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smarthernews/  Website: https://smarthernews.com/  YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/smarthernews 
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Why Artemis II Matters: Risks And The New Space Race
2026/03/31
Jenna interviews space journalist Kristin Fisher of Endless Void Studios about why NASA’s Artemis II mission matters, framing it as a choice to lead or follow as China and others pursue the Moon.  The daughter of two NASA astronauts, Fisher says success is simply returning the four astronauts safely, calling it NASA’s riskiest human test flight since Apollo because this rocket has flown only once and, after a certain part of the journey (a trans-lunar injection) there is no rescue option.   She explains recent delays stemmed from hydrogen/helium leak issues and notes a “point of no return”  before a single lunar slingshot flyby that will set a human distance record.   Kristin describes the importance of the “lunar base” competition between the U.S., Russia and China for “property” at the Moon’s south pole - a key spot for potential ice that carries huge national security implications.   Fisher also shares the details of her “Launch Party” live coverage aimed at space-curious viewers. 00:00 Why Artemis II Matters 01:11 Leading the Moon Return 02:29 Defining Mission Success 03:43 Human Risk and Reality 05:54 Hydrogen Leak Delays 08:47 Countdown and Launch Day 11:59 Flight Plan to the Moon 13:33 Why This Crew Won’t Land On the Moon 14:42 Stakes of the Space Race 2.0  17:33 Launch Party Coverage 20:47 Final Thanks  Kristin Fischer: Launch Party Endless Void Studios Instagram SUPPORT OUR MISSION: Love nonpartisan news? Want a bigger serving of the serious headlines?  Here’s how you can become a SCOOP insider: https://www.scoop.smarthernews.com/get-the-inside-scoop/    Shop our gear!  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smarthernews/  Website: https://smarthernews.com/  YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/smarthernews 
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Sharks on Drugs? The Week That Could Change Everything: The SCOOP
2026/03/30
Jenna previews a consequential week of news heading into Easter weekend from the space race to social media company lawsuits and the headlines in between (including sharks ... on painkillers). On The Middle East: Pres. Trump expresses optimism about a deal with Iran, references a 15-point plan, claims Iran is shipping large amounts of oil, and loosely characterizes leadership changes as “regime change,” while escalation indicators include Houthi attacks on Israel, increased U.S. troop levels (about 50,000 vs. a typical 40,000), Israel-Hezbollah exchanges, and NATO intercepting Iranian missiles aimed at Turkey. On The Economy: Rising oil prices impact the economy and move the markets into "correction" territory (a decline of 10% off their highs).In The Courtroom: Major jury verdicts against Meta, YouTube, on child safety and “addictive” designs. These lawsuits challenge Section 230 protections. In Space: A possible Artemis II launch is schedule for Wednesday. We detail a 10-day crewed mission around the Moon, and discusses space as strategic “high ground.”00:00 The Week That Changes Everything 01:54 Sharks on Drugs 04:27 Iran Waterways and Oil 05:12 President Gaggle Highlights - Including Potential De-escalatory talks. 09:24 Escalation Signals in the Middle East 13:09 Gas Prices and Market Jitters 16:57 Artificial Intelligence and SaaS (Software as a Service) Uncertainty 22:08 Social Media Legal Showdown 27:21 Meta Verdict Fallout in New Mexico 30:02 California "Defective" Design Case in California 31:25 Cigarette Lawsuit Parallels 32:40 The impact of infinite scrolling. 35:33 Quick update on the DHS shutdown. 38:17 Budget Chaos And Precedent 39:35 Artemis II Moon Race 43:25 The NASA Administrator refers to "Space As High Ground" 46:57 Why Space Hype Fades:  49:34 Teen Screen Time Data 52:00: Beware of the Sneaky Sasquatch. SUPPORT OUR MISSION: Love nonpartisan news? Want a bigger serving of the serious headlines?  Here’s how you can become a SCOOP insider: https://www.scoop.smarthernews.com/get-the-inside-scoop/  Get our Weekend Digest! Shop our gear!  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smarthernews/  Website: https://smarthernews.com/  YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/smarthernews 
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Inside Scoop: New Iran Talks, The Latest On "Hacker Compounds," And A Missing Persons Mystery Expands
2026/03/23
Jenna highlights the breaking news from Pres. Trump about new talks with Iran - a shift in the roughly three-week conflict from a prior 48-hour timeline to open up the Strait of Hormuz to a five-day window for diplomacy.In worldwide threats hearings, CIA Director John Ratcliffe disputes a resigning counterterrorism chief’s claim that Iran is not an imminent threat, and Senator Angus King presses whether objectives like eliminating highly enriched uranium can be achieved without ground forces. Cybersecurity testimony warns AI-driven scam networks, with FBI Director Patel citing major losses and scam compounds in Southeast Asia backed by the Chinese Communist Party. The DHS partial shutdown continues while the expected new leader of the agency faces a contentious confirmation hearing. Sen. Markwayne Mullin on ICE reform and personal disputes. More than 600,000 people go missing every year in America. This episode highlights three - including an update on Nancy Guthrie to missing rocket scientists.Plus ~ National Mall cherry blossoms near peak bloom.Happy Spring ;) Here are your show notes!00:00 Your top headlines from POTUS to DHS to Mysterious Disappearances.02:16 Surprise announcement by President Trump.04:07 Why "talks" matter05:20 What to consider: Boots On Ground Debate08:47 Intel Hearing Highlights10:17 Imminent Threat Question15:14 Winning And Timeline16:07 AI Scam Compounds19:31 DHS Shutdown Impacts21:23 Funding Fight And Nominee24:29 ICE Reform Clash28:33 A Venezuelan man shoots and kills an American student in Chicago.31:27 Sen. Rand Paul and Sen. Mullin clash over an apology35:49 Sen. Peters Questions Sen. Mullin's Service43:22 Nancy Guthrie Update46:58 Missing Scientists Mystery51:24 Cherry Blossoms: Peak BloomLove nonpartisan news? Want a bigger serving of the serious headlines?  Here’s how you can become a SCOOP insider: https://www.scoop.smarthernews.com/get-the-inside-scoop/   Shop our gear! https://smarthernews.com/shop/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smarthernews/ Website: https://smarthernews.com/
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Alcatraz Uncovered: What It Was Really Like to Live on the Island
2026/03/21
Note: We’re resharing this conversation as Saturday marks the anniversary of Alcatraz Island closing as a federal prison in 1963. This interview originally aired in May 2025, when President Donald Trump publicly floated the idea of reopening the island.Could Alcatraz reopen today? And what was it really like to live there?In this episode of SmartHER News, Jenna sits down with Jolene Babyak — one of the leading experts on Alcatraz Island — who actually grew up on “The Rock.”Jolene shares what most people don’t know about Alcatraz: families lived there, kids took boats to school, and daily life looked very different than the movies suggest.Together, they explore:* How Alcatraz evolved from a military fortress to America’s most infamous federal prison* What life was like for the 75 children who lived on the island* The truth about escape attempts, including the famous 1962 breakout* Why Alcatraz closed—and whether it could ever reopen* The surprising role of mental illness in the prison system* Why Alcatraz should be viewed as a “site of conscience,” not just a tourist attractionJolene also shares how an unexpected job loss led her to become one of the foremost historians on Alcatraz — proof that sometimes, it really does work out.If you’ve ever wondered what really happened on Alcatraz — or why it still captures our attention — this conversation offers a deeper, more nuanced look.00:00 Could Alcatraz Reopen00:36 From Fortress to Prison02:00 How Her Family Moved In05:02 Daily Life on the Rock07:22 Prisoners and Escape Attempts12:10 The 1962 Escape Night14:45 Water Sewage and Supplies18:00 Becoming an Alcatraz Historian20:55 Who Went to Alcatraz23:13 Capone and Famous Inmates25:26 Was Alcatraz Effective26:54 Why It Wont Reopen29:49 Alcatraz as a Site of Conscience31:46 Changing Minds and FarewellJolene Babyak: http://jolenebabyakauthor.com/Love nonpartisan news? Want a bigger serving of the serious headlines?  Here’s how you can become a SCOOP insider: https://www.scoop.smarthernews.com/get-the-inside-scoop/   Shop our gear! https://smarthernews.com/shop/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smarthernews/ Website: https://smarthernews.com/
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The Supermarket Guru on Why Grocery Prices Aren’t Coming Down: Chocolate, Beef, Coffee, and Dynamic Pricing
2026/03/18
Jenna interviews supermarket expert Phil Lempert, the “Supermarket Guru” on the latest on food prices AND trends in good shopping that may change your next trip to the grocery store.From chocolate, to coffee, to frozen fruits and snacks, we discuss the prices you've been most curious about and unfortunately, Pihl says grocery prices are up nearly 30% since the pandemic and likely won’t fall until agriculture problems are solved, citing tariffs, climate change, and supply disruptions. Jenna and Phil also tackle how recent headlines impact food prices from immigration policy to artificial intelligence - including how AI-driven dynamic pricing may soon include electronic shelf labels and facial recognition. Phil also shares some money-saving shopping tactics, and how GLP-1 drugs may reduce food consumption and reshape grocery retail.00:00 Phil Lempert Returns To SmartHER News 00:30 Supermarket Guru Origin 01:24 Sticker Shock Story 02:14 Why Prices Stay High 02:52 Chocolate Price Surge 04:01 Shrinkflation Tricks 07:21 Finding Chocolate Deals 08:12 Beef Gets Pricier 10:56 Produce and Farm Labor 12:53 Frozen Food Costs 13:56 Snack Prices Rising 15:23 Apples and Storage 17:03 Coffee Price Pressures 19:31 Coffee Fads and Add Ins 21:28 Europe Eats Better 22:09 Quality Over Choice 23:39 Smaller Store Revolution 24:20 Daily Shop Explained 27:18 Regional Shopping Reality 28:14 Tracking Real Prices 31:18 Dynamic Pricing Fears 38:56 AI Shopping Upside 40:08 Save Money Strategies 43:03 HEB Tortilla Magic 44:32 GLP One Grocery Shift SUPPORT OUR MISSION: Love nonpartisan news? Want a bigger serving of the serious headlines?  Here’s how you can become a SCOOP insider: https://www.scoop.smarthernews.com/get-the-inside-scoop/    Shop our gear!  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smarthernews/  Website: https://smarthernews.com/  YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/smarthernews 
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Who Is The New Ayatollah? What Every American Should Know
2026/03/16
Benham Ben Taleblu, Senior Director of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies’ Iran program, joins Jenna for a look at Iran’s new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, and what his rise could mean during wartime. Taleblu says the regime is hardening under a national security deep state and has moved closer to a military dictatorship, arguing the most important institution is the armed apparatus rather than the clergy. He outlines Mojtaba’s background, including ties to the elite Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corp (a designated foreign terrorist organization by the U.S.) and his reported service during the Iran-Iraq war.Benham warns his leadership could be more aggressive and push Iran toward a North Korea-like model. He stresses the need to consider military gains in a broader political strategy, avoid premature victory, and pursue a five-part approach: do no harm, take cues from Iranian protesters, maintain maximum pressure, maximize support for communications and organizing, and fracture the security forces.Plus ~ a personal reflection from Benham who has family ties to Iran, and why he has opposed war in the past but discusses a tipping point when he realized the need for force.00:00 Meet our guest, Iran expert Benham Ben Taleblu00:28 Who Leads Iran Now02:26 Name Pronunciation02:48 Power Structure Shift03:48 Is It A Monarchy05:41 New Leader Background08:24 Will The Regime Survive10:01 Defanging Versus Strategy10:53 Iranian Uprising Momentum13:14 How To Support Protesters16:32 Five Part Pressure Plan18:10 White House Outreach18:50 Personal Toll And Hope20:56 Closing Thanks
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China, Crisis & The Global Power Play: Is The Risk of War Rising?
2026/03/11
Is China at the center of all current global conflict? Is the risk of war rising?Whether we take a closer look at Venezuela or Iran, we find roads that lead to China. Why? And what should we know about the state of the largest communist nation in the world?Jenna interviews author and analyst Gordon Chang about China’s growing instability and global posture amid shifting events involving Venezuela, Iran, and potential Trump–Xi talks.Chang argues China appears strong but is structurally weak and increasingly dangerous.He describes China’s deep ties to Venezuela and says recent American actions cost China a key Latin American outpost.He calls Iran similarly dependent on China, noting China buys about 87–90% of Iran’s crude and 45–50% of China’s crude imports pass through the Strait of Hormuz, with price spikes after attacks.Chang says Xi’s purges, including “disappearing generals,” have damaged China’s military command structure, raising risks of accidental escalation.From U.S.-based Chinese biolabs to the fentanyl/drug war, Chang warns the U.S. must treat China as an enemy in “unrestricted warfare.”00:00 Meet Gordon Chang00:40 From Law to China Watcher01:50 Why China Looks Weak02:36 Stories Converge on China04:18 China and Venezuela Ties07:01 Iran Oil and China08:58 China Economic Shock09:56 Inside the Two Sessions12:09 Why Xi Rules by Fear14:09 Disappearing Generals Purge18:05 What It Means for Taiwan20:45 South China Sea Flashpoints23:56 Red Lines and US Strategy26:09 Exports Signal Weakness29:16 Xi Power Grab Fallout30:08 Trump Xi Summit Stakes31:44 Why Trump Shouldnt Go36:32 China Election Interference39:01 Secret Biolab Raids45:17 Fentanyl As Weapon47:53 TikTok Data And Algorithm49:02 China Russia And Priorities52:34 Unrestricted Warfare Warning54:45 Living With The Threat SUPPORT OUR MISSION: Love nonpartisan news? Want a bigger serving of the serious headlines?  Here’s how you can become a SCOOP insider: https://www.scoop.smarthernews.com/get-the-inside-scoop/    Shop our gear!  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smarthernews/  Website: https://smarthernews.com/  YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/smarthernews 
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SCOOP: The Untold Impact of Iran's Conflict - From Petroleum To The Press
2026/03/09
01:05 Dignified Transfer Explained 03:23 Media Access and Family Consent 04:54 Steve Witkoff Emotional Moment 07:44 Jobs Report Breakdown 11:02 Oil Prices Surge and Inflation 16:21 Strait of Hormuz Shipping Crunch 18:22 War Risk Insurance Explained 22:07 CENTCOM Warning to Iran 24:39 Ayatollah Succession on X 25:13 Iran Hardliner Continuity 26:10 What Winning Looks Like 27:03 School Strike Claims 27:57 New York Times Evidence 31:26 Civilian Shields Context 35:54 Press Briefing Clash 40:55 Replaying Hegseth Quote 44:17 Media Trust and Messaging 50:31 Wrap Up and Next Week SUPPORT OUR MISSION: Love nonpartisan news? Want a bigger serving of the serious headlines?  Here’s how you can become a SCOOP insider: https://www.scoop.smarthernews.com/get-the-inside-scoop/    Shop our gear!  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smarthernews/  Website: https://smarthernews.com/  YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/smarthernews 
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Podcast reviews

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4.9 out of 5
653 reviews
MichyLynn1977 2026/03/12
Gordon interview
This interview was amazing! I always like when you have Gordon on! I learn so much!!! I truly appreciate all the work you do to keep us informed!
dlstephmusic 2025/12/11
News presented in an engaging way
I’ve been a fan of Jenna and Smarther News since it’s beginning. I love how fair she is with her topics. Her presentation is always engaging, whether ...
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littlefenders 2026/03/09
Non partisan lite
I used to love SmartHERNews but it’s clear that we are leaning right here. Can you please thoroughly cover The Epstein Files?
BNoethlich 2025/08/08
What to give up!
I related to your online shopping issue. Returns returns returns!! I hate it & I need to stop!! Love your content!
lukedanes 2025/11/17
Doesn’t report on news
It feels as though she’s so concerned about being unbiased that she never really reports on news. I feel there are better news resources who can repor...
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thatfairlady 2025/11/13
Really used to love SHN, but she’s doing an awful job covering this administration
I used to be a smarther news stan. I recommended her social channels and podcast so frequently, people stopped asking “where did you hear that” and st...
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Lmyog 2025/07/26
Concise and Fair
Jenna does an incredible job giving quick, concise, and fair news reporting. She gives great perspective and empowers people to be curious and seek li...
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KarrieV 2025/07/14
Just News (Which I love)
Excellent News Source! Jenna is straight forward and well versed. I grew up listening to 24 hour news and talk radio in my home and I have all but cut...
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Sarah-523 2025/04/18
The best!
I have been a scoop member for over a year and it is honestly the most helpful and best decision I could have made. I so appreciate all the hard work...
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Kristinsays 2025/07/12
Biased but striving for non-partisan
Jenna works to be non-partisan in a way that I’ve not seen elsewhere, which is why I’ve stuck with her for 5+ years. She is EXCELLENT at covering fo...
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