one smart publication - Teen Vogue
#5SmartReads - April 2, 2025
#5SmartReads is a Webby-honored weekly news digest that amplifies underreported news and underrepresented perspectives. My goal is to help you stay informed without being overwhelmed, and to embrace nuance and reflection over picking a side.
Feeling informed without being overwhelmed feels impossible right now, and it’s been my thesis of #5SmartReads from the very beginning. When you add in the state of the media (rage baiting news, irresponsible reporting by some citizen journalists, censorship by media owners), it can feel impossible to know what to trust or how to consume the news without losing your mind.
I’m honored that #5SmartReads is a part of your own news diet, and I want to share some of the publications that make up my own.
You know you’re a millennial when you think “Lauren didn’t go to Paris” when I say Teen Vogue. If you relate, I hope you’ve added a retinol to your skincare routine and that you click over to their website immediately.
“The youth will save us” is one of those persistent, timeless narratives that every generation has taken their turn with. If we find ourselves parroting this phrase, I hope we also take some time to understand how the generation in charge of the saving approaches this mission, and how they feel about it.
Under Versha Sharma’s leadership, the magazine has been publishing critical perspectives on current events - abolishing the Department of Education, fighting for gun safety reform, gender policing in school bathrooms. More than simply reporting, these articles invite you in the reality and lived experiences of those living with the decisions made by our leaders. Teen Vogue has demonstrated the mettle and strength required for a fair and free press to exist (qualities that are on a steep decline most major news outlets).
Teen Vogue has a number of great newsletters, but I recommend Teen Vogue Take (sent Wednesdays and Saturdays) - it’s a ‘news you can use’ digest that won’t stress you out.
Here are 5 smart reads from Teen Vogue that I think you’ll enjoy:
H&M Is Tapping AI Models. Here’s Why It Could Be Problematic
Netflix’s Mo Season 2 Revolutionized Palestinian Representation. We Can’t Let It End Here.
The Aspiring Doctors in Medical Students For Choice Are Fighting For Their Patients' Abortion Rights
#5SmartReads is all about helping you feel smarter this week.
If you want to feel better but feel overwhelmed on what to do, check out this month’s plan (mindfulness practices, workouts, meals, and more):
Lauren didn’t go to Paris = you need retinol = iconic
How interesting! I would never have considered Teen Vogue for articles relevant to me. I have signed up for the 'Take' articles you have suggested and await arrival to see if I agree. Thanks Hitha.