The American Flag that we associate with the fight for American independence really became the symbol we know it to be today years after the American Revolution during the War of 1812. The flag that flew over Fort McHenry during a pivotal battle against the British inspired America’s national anthem and has survived for more than 200 years. We speak to Shannon Lucas, Park Ranger at Fort McHenry about the backstory of the flag's creation, the writing of the Star-Spangled Banner and what both mean to America today. 

Five “SmartHER" facts to know about the state of immigration at the U.S. southern border - Our Week In Review June 28th, 2019.

Dr. Long Gillespie dishes out "MomHacks" with Jenna Lee. #MomHacks #JennaLee #DrDarria #Smarther

Photographer Joel Grimes recently visited Tijuana where thousands have traveled to potentially seek asylum in America.  An estimated 6,000 Central Americans walking in caravans reached Tijuana late this Fall - another 1,000 are currently heading to the border from Honduras. But it’s not just Central Americans in camps. Thousands from Haiti traveled to the U.S. southern border in 2016 hoping to seek asylum.  Joel provided a rare opportunity to speak to someone, outside the political debate, who observed what’s happening on a small sliver of the border through a unique perspective – behind his camera. Here are his thoughts after spending 3 days photographing in Tijuana.

An American Christmas Story - The untold story behind the American Christmas tree industry with some unique perspective (and tree buying tips) by Doug Hundley of the National Christmas Tree Association.

3 major nations and one big mystery. What’s at stake behind the alleged murder in Turkey of a Saudi Arabian journalist working for an American newspaper.

A SmartHER take on a story that made international headlines.
Several years ago a sick baby girl, given nearly no chance at survival, was randomly chosen from a crowd in Philadelphia and kissed by Pope Francis. Shortly after, Gianna Masciantonio suddenly started making an astonishing recovery that many called a “miracle".
But that’s not the real story.

Gianna celebrated her 4th birthday this week. Hear about her incredible journey as told by her mother, Kristen Masciantonio.
An unforgettable conversation that will inform and inspire.

To anyone who embraces their "inner geek" data rules. Yet, this week's news cycle offers a reminder that even the strongest data can only tell us so much; often, it ironically highlights the unknown. Here's 3 stories you should know, from the week, plus, a conversation with John Wayne's youngest daughter Marisa Wayne on her life with the Hollywood legend and how she's building her own empire: Grit Cycle.

Cut out the noise. Here’s the top 2 stories of the week plus the truth about the Taliban (and why peace talks with them may not be “peace talks” at all) with Tom Joscelyn of The Long War Journal.