We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Hanna Powers. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Hanna below.

Alright, Hanna thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. What do you think Corporate America gets wrong in your industry?

In my experience, one of the biggest misconceptions people have about news media, particularly in Corporate America, is viewing it as a monolithic entity with a single agenda or bias. The reality, especially in local news, is quite different. At the local level, our focus is on serving our communities by providing relevant, unbiased information that directly impacts viewers’ lives—from severe weather alerts to community events and local government updates. Even though we may be affiliated with national networks, we maintain an independent editorial approach rooted in our commitment to our specific region.

An example of this is our station’s long standing Pets on 2 daily segment, which helps animals find homes and has raised thousands of dollars for local shelters. It’s a genuine, community-centered initiative that has nothing to do with national narratives—it’s all about meeting the needs of the people and animals in our area.

I believe local news anchors like myself are uniquely positioned to build trust with our communities. By remaining focused on local interests and remaining neutral in our coverage, we can show viewers that our priority is their well-being, not pushing any agenda. In a world increasingly divided by media bias, our goal is to be a reliable source that people can trust.

Hanna, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

After graduating from college, I was drawn to journalism because of my love for people and my curiosity about the world around me. This field has given me the incredible opportunity to meet and learn from people from all walks of life every day. Whether it’s covering local events, speaking with community leaders, or telling the inspiring stories of everyday heroes, I get to be both a storyteller and a listener—a role that feels like a perfect fit for me as someone who thrives on connection and discovery.

What sets my work apart is my commitment to authenticity and community. Local news is a place where we focus on what genuinely matters to our audience, and as a local anchor, I aim to bring a relatable, trustworthy presence to my work. I’m especially proud of initiatives like our ‘Clear the Shelters’ campaign, which has helped countless animals find homes and raised awareness for local shelters. My platform allows me to champion causes that mean the world to me, from animal welfare to other charitable efforts in our community.

For me, journalism isn’t just about delivering the news—it’s about being a positive force in people’s lives, providing them with both information and inspiration. I want my viewers to know that I’m here for them, dedicated to creating a sense of community, and genuinely passionate about making a difference.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

I believe my reputation in this market has been built through a combination of time, commitment, and an eagerness to engage with the community. Being in the state of South Carolina since 2015 has given me a deep familiarity with the people and places that make up our region. I’ve made it a priority to show up at every opportunity—whether it’s a community event, a charity fundraiser, or simply traveling to all the smaller towns in our DMA. That willingness to say ‘yes’ and truly invest in every corner of our area has been crucial in building trust and a sense of connection with our viewers.

Physically being present, shaking hands, listening to concerns, and celebrating local successes have all helped me stay in tune with what really matters to the people I serve. My goal has always been to make our entire area feel seen and represented, and I think that dedication to the big picture has helped me build a reputation as someone who’s genuinely invested in the community.

Do you have any insights you can share related to maintaining high team morale?

Though I’m not in a management position, I truly believe journalism is a team sport, and maintaining high morale is something each of us can contribute to, regardless of title. I pride myself on being a positive force in the newsroom—showing up every day with energy and enthusiasm, ready to support my colleagues and encourage them through challenges. In this industry, where stories and deadlines can be intense, a positive mindset can be contagious, and I’ve found that a kind word or an uplifting comment can make a huge difference in our team’s day-to-day morale.

I see my role as something of a cheerleader, helping to lift those around me and supporting new journalists as they find their footing. For me, it’s about creating an environment where everyone feels valued and motivated to bring their best selves to their work. High morale often starts from within, and by staying passionate and encouraging, I hope to inspire my team to keep pushing forward together.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.hannapowers.com
• Instagram: @hannapowers
• Facebook: @hannapowers
• Twitter: @hannakpowers

Image Credits

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