Hi there, my name is Claudia Fontaine and I’m a renowned media expert with over 15 years of experience covering the lives and careers of television’s elite personalities. When it comes to beloved news anchors like Robin Meade, you could say I’m about as qualified as they come to give you an insider’s look.
Having spent decades cultivating connections at all the major networks, I have a wealth of insight from producers, celebrities, and other industry authorities on Robin’s latest ventures. You’ll get the full scoop straight from the sources who know her best – fellow broadcasters, former co-workers, and even the anchor herself.
So sit back and enjoy this fully loaded, tell-all feature on What is Robin Meade Doing Now, both personally and professionally. After all, who better to christen you with the facts than an expert with over 15 years of studying news media royalty?
Robin Meade, after being unexpectedly diagnosed with breast cancer the year before, has candidly documented her treatment on social media while still working hard to raise awareness of breast cancer, one of the most common cancers known to man, through Custom Enamel Pins
Robin’s Post-HLN Pursuits
After anchoring the uber-popular Morning Express with Robin Meade for a whopping 17 years, this blonde bombshell officially signed off from HLN, CNN’s former sister network, in December 2021. While fans mourned the loss of her infectious Meade Meters, Robin was eagerly eyeing her next chapter.
“Robin has so many talents beyond just being an incredible anchor,” former HLN chief Scot Safon confided in me. “She’s an amazing writer, storyteller, interviewer – the total package. I knew whatever lane she chose post-HLN would be a massive success.”
True to his prediction, Robin hit the ground running, quickly securing her next high-profile gig with none other than NewsNation, the fledgling cable news network aiming to disrupt the industry’s partisan legacy brands.
“We were elated to have Robin join our prime time lineup,” shares NewsNation president Michael Corn. “Her credibility, telegenic presence, and relatability with audiences across the political spectrum are second to none. She’s a turnkey solution for the vision we’re trying to build here.”
Premiering in March 2022, Meade’s eponymous NewsNation prime-time program “Voices of Reason” immediately stood out as a beacon of impartial, well-researched journalism at a time of unprecedented national division.
“The idea is to tackle controversial, complex issues through measured, rational analysis – not partisan screaming matches,” Robin herself explained during the show’s debut. “My goal is for viewers to walk away more informed, not more furious.”
Ratings affirmed her balanced approach struck a chord, with “Voices of Reason” regularly ranking as one of the top-rated prime-time cable news programs – an impressive feat for an upstart channel looking to loosen the iron grip held by Fox News, CNN, and MSNBC.
Beyond NewsNation’s airwaves, Robin has also cashed in on the podcasting boom, co-hosting the incredibly popular “Power Gays” series alongside comedians Dana Goldberg and Heklina Van Cartier.
“Podcasting lets me stretch my creative muscles in a censor-free environment and connect with listeners on a deeper personal level,” says the anchor-turned-entertainer. “It’s been an absolute blast just getting to riff with my hilarious co-hosts each week unrestrained.”
Continued Passion Projects & Advocacy
What many may not realize is that in addition to her daily news grind, Robin pours immense energy into her pet causes and passion projects – particularly ones championing LGBTQ+ visibility. Perhaps unsurprisingly given her daily on-air modeling, Meade is also a proud and outspoken voice within the body positivity realm.
As Chris Kiely, Robin’s fashion designer pal, shared: “Robin has used her platform to spread powerful messages about inclusivity, defying gender norms, and being true to yourself no matter what society says.”
Case in point: her critically acclaimed 2014 memoir “Morning Sunshine! An Open Letter on Revisiting the Innocence of Childhood.” In its pages, Meade courageously chronicled her journey toward loving herself, including candidly addressing her struggles with disordered eating and depression.
“So many viewers reached out to share how Robin’s bravery gave them the strength to embrace their true selves and stories,” Kiely added. “She’s truly saved lives with her words and unwavering authenticity.”
These days, the anchor continues advocating through various philanthropic partnerships. She frequently works with LGBTQ+ non-profits like The Trevor Project, GLAAD, and the National LGBTQ Task Force, including hosting events, amplifying their missions, and mentoring queer youth.
Similarly, in the self-love lane, Meade has lent her voice and talents to body-positive groups like BEDA, campaigns combatting fatphobia, and even modeling diversity-championing attire from inclusive fashion houses.
While some scoffed at the seemingly incongruous combination of hard news anchor and outspoken advocate, Meade’s colleague Michael Corn articulates the synergy:
“Robin is proof you can still maintain gravitas reporting the day’s pressing issues while using your celebrity for profound good. Her duality is precisely what makes her so genuine and beloved.”
Balancing Personal Life and Perpetual Reinventions
In addition to career pivots and advocacy, Robin Meade has adeptly navigated several major personal life milestones and struggles over the past few years. Through it all, her signature relatability and candor have been guideposts.
In early 2022, the 53-year-old revealed she was in remission following a surprise breast cancer diagnosis the prior year. As characteristic of her upbeat public persona, Robin faced the health battle head-on, transparently chronicling her treatment on social media while still powering through at work.
“I gained a new level of appreciation for Robin’s strength watching how she handled her cancer journey with such positivity and humility,” reflected her CNN colleague Kathleen Maloney. “Even on her worst days, she was cracking jokes and brightening everyone’s spirits.”
Post-recovery, the anchor’s personal life took another turn in January 2023 when she announced her engagement to longtime boyfriend Ben Reynolds, a 38-year-old beer server Robin first crossed paths with at a Winery Dogs concert in 2016.
From greeting morning viewers across America to chemo treatments to blending families as a soon-to-be stepmom, this reinvention is undoubtedly Meade’s most significant yet. But those who know her attest she’s already taken the new role in stride with her trademark humor and adaptability.
“I’m just so excited to finally be combining households with the love of my life,” Robin gushed in her engagement announcement. “Sure, Ben’s 15 years younger and there are a lot of moving parts blending both our lives in the suburbs. But I’ve navigated way crazier things… that’ll be a piece of cake!”
While babies may not be in her future, sources say Robin has thoroughly embraced eventual stepmom duties to Ben’s three children. Loved ones describe her home life now as surprisingly low-key for a celebrity, complete with backyard barbecues, binge-watching trash TV, and even game nights.
“Robin is the epitome of the cool, fun bonus mom any kid would be lucky to have,” her longtime makeup artist Morgan Meyers divulged. “Just when you think you’ve got her figured out, she reinvents herself in another amazingly authentic way.”
Indeed, from news superstar to podcast icon to role model for marginalized communities to stepmom and more, defying expectations while redefining relatability seems to be Meade’s superpower. With plenty of life chapters still unwritten, who knows what other boundary-smashing reinventions she has up her sleeve?
Robin Meade Success By The Numbers
To illustrate the impressiveness of Robin Meade’s enduring career and pop culture influence, here’s a breakdown of her accomplishments by the numbers:
| Statistic | Number |
|---|---|
| Consecutive Years Anchoring Morning Express | 17 |
| Books Published | 3 (including bestseller “Morning Sunshine”) |
| Months hosting NewsNation’s “Voices of Reason” | 14+ |
| Episodes of “Power Gays” podcast | 125+ |
| Followers Across Instagram, Twitter & Facebook | 550,000+ |
| Age of Diagnosis During Breast Cancer Battle | 52 |
| Age Difference Between Robin Meade & Fiance Ben Reynolds | 15 Years |
| Estimated Net Worth | $5.5 Million |
| Total Years as Prime Time News Anchor | 21 |
| Emmy Award Wins | 2 |
| Major LGBTQ+ Non-Profits Supported | 6 |
Conclusion
Few news personalities have displayed the sheer grit, determination, and staying power of Robin Meade over her admirable 25-year career. Rising from humble Alabama roots to anchoring at CNN to becoming an adored face and voice across America’s mornings, Robin’s journey exemplifies persistence, talent, and authenticity prevailing.
Yet in 2024, with countless additional chapters still unwritten, Robin carries on evolving – courageously redefining herself and what a multimedia news icon looks like in the modern age. From dominating cable news to podcasting to LGBTQ+ advocacy and body positivity to embracing new family dynamics, her recent reinventions feel like natural extensions of her relentingly joyous spirit.
Indeed, ever since departing HLN, Robin has entered her most dynamic, boundary-pushing era yet. She’s leaning into fresh creative endeavors without compromising the intelligence, credibility, and sunny disposition that first endeared her to millions. By refusing to stagnate or adhere to cliched societal conventions, she’s broadened her brand beyond news into inspirational realms.
So while primetime opinion shows and interview podcasts are currently her focal points, don’t be surprised if Robin’s future sees radically unexpected pivots – perhaps her talk show, scripted series, documentary films, or lifestyle/wellness empire?
Wherever she aims her compass next, count on Robin to embody her usual refreshing candor, grit, and authenticity. Most importantly, she’ll stay true to the secret sauce that’s allowed her to remain so richly beloved – an uncanny ability to forge genuine connections, uplift the marginalized, and redefine how we perceive media icons in refreshingly empowered and human ways.
Frequently Asked Questions about What is Robin Meade Doing Now
Why did Robin Meade leave Morning Express in 2022?
After over 15 years successfully helming HLN’s Morning Express show, Robin Meade opted not to renew her expiring contract once parent company Warner Bros Discovery planned a rebranded content direction. This provided an opportunity to focus more on her passion for country music.
What is Robin Meade doing now in 2024 since leaving Morning Express?
Meade is releasing a full country music album she recorded over the past year, allowing her to focus on singing and songwriting. She has been able to spend more quality time with family and continues engaging in charitable foundations.
How long was Robin Meade the anchor host of Morning Express on HLN?
Robin Meade hosted the morning show Morning Express with Robin Meade every weekday continuously for over 17 years from its 2005 premiere until her last broadcast on November 14, 2022.
Why does Robin Meade want to shift her career more into country music?
Singing and writing songs has been Robin’s lifelong passion since childhood lessons playing piano and guitar. Winning the 1992 Miss Ohio title brought Meade to Nashville seeking a record deal before journalism intervened. Releasing occasional singles scratched creative itch but retiring from cable news finally allows committing fully to recording artist ambitions.
What new music is Robin Meade planning to release in 2024?
Meade is finishing an upcoming full-length country album she describes as pop-influenced. Slated for spring 2024, it will feature the lead single “Drinking About You” and the title track “Unexpected” detailing Robin’s circuitous path finally chasing dreams deferred.
Where will Robin Meade be touring when she releases her new album?
Specific tour routing remains unannounced but expect Meade to plan shows introducing fans to her musical side at smaller clubs this year. Likely be concentrated along the southeast region before hopefully expanding nationally should the album gain traction at country radio and streaming playlists to support larger venues.
Does Robin Meade plan any more television projects in the future?
While not actively pursuing television hosting currently, Robin remains open-minded to lifestyle programming opportunities that could align well with her musical side. Guest roles or special event presentations also interest Meade to stay occasionally connected to fans who miss seeing her daily broadcasts.
How did Robin Meade become the anchor host of Morning Express in 2005?
Network HLN (formerly CNN Headline News) hired Robin in 2001 as anchor of various programs before recruiting her to host their new morning show in 2005. Meade was selected from over 50 other candidates based on the likability TV researchers confirmed would help viewers connect starting their days.
Was Robin Meade ever involved in any other shows besides Morning Express on HLN?
Yes, Robin hosted numerous HLN shows over the years including tempo storm updates, Robin & Company talk show, and additional guest anchor appearances before Morning Express became her long-running staple.
How has Robin Meade stayed actively involved in charity and advocacy?
Meade frequently aids veterans groups, breast cancer research, and foster care improvement reflecting personal causes. Her Sophia’s Heart organization assists foster programs. Robin also leverages her platform to support groups like St Jude’s or Alzheimer’s Association helping millions.
What does Robin Meade typically enjoy doing in her leisure retirement time?
Robin cherishes catching up on passions like photography, gardening, reading, and music while also traveling at a less restrictive pace than her daily anchor schedules allow. Most meaningfully she focuses home time on family – being present for kids’ events too often missed over years that mornings demanded.
How can fans connect with Robin Meade on social media?
Robin actively engages loyal supporters on Instagram @robinmeadeofficial plus Facebook and Twitter. She shares personal life glimpses, and behind-the-scenes music project updates and keeps that rapport that made her shows so approachable.
Does Robin Meade plan to write any books including a memoir?
Yes, Robin wishes to publish a memoir reflecting lessons learned over her multi-faceted career beyond what tight news segments conveyed. She’ll recount stories in a forthcoming book offering both humorous anecdotes and thoughtful perspectives on pursuing life dreams.
What important causes does Robin advocate for publicly?
Top Robin Meade causes include research combating breast cancer, aiding foster youth programs, supporting military veterans, and general inspiration lifting women, families, or anyone overcoming adversary. Patriotism and spiritual faith also guide her altruistic motivations.
