Savannah Guthrie: A Journey of Career, Friendship, and Family

From Crawford to Coanchor: The Rise of Savannah Guthrie

Savannah Guthrie’s journey to becoming a coanchor on the Today show is a tale of unexpected opportunities and perseverance. In 2008, Guthrie, then a young White House correspondent for NBC, was assigned to cover Jenna Bush Hager’s wedding in Crawford, Texas. Reflecting on that experience, Guthrie recalls the challenges of reporting with minimal information, yet it marked the beginning of a significant professional relationship and a future friendship with Hager. Fast-forward 16 years, Guthrie finds herself as a coanchor on one of television’s most popular morning shows, a role she never imagined for herself. She often experiences "pinch me" moments, acknowledging the improbable nature of her career trajectory. Guthrie, a mother of two, attributes her success to luck and the support of her husband, Michael Feldman, and expresses gratitude for the opportunity to be part of a show she once idolized.

Reflections on Responsibility and Legacy

Guthrie humbly defies the notion of being one of the most powerful women in television, instead embracing the label of being one of the luckiest. She views her role on Today as a custodian of a significant and relevant platform, emphasizing the joy and intrigue it brings. Guthrie acknowledges the responsibility of following in the footsteps of trailblazers like Barbara Walters and Katie Couric, recognizing the barriers they broke for women in broadcasting. Her sense of duty is evident in her approach to each broadcast, understanding the impact of her presence in such an influential position. Guthrie aspires to leave a legacy of care and stewardship, hoping her contribution to the show will be remembered positively.

The Nerves and Nuances of High-Stakes Interviews

Despite her composure on air, Guthrie admits to feeling anxious before major interviews, such as her recent conversation with Bill Gates. The pressure to cover significant topics within tight time frames and the unpredictability of human interaction heighten her nerves. Guthrie finds herself in confrontational moments, particularly with politicians, which she finds challenging due to her nonconfrontational nature. However, her commitment to her role ensures she navigates these situations with professionalism. Over her nearly 13 years on Today, Guthrie has covered pivotal events like elections and the State of the Union, and she cherishes personal highlights, such as returning to her birthplace in Australia with her mother.

A Friendship Forged in Proximity and Shared Experiences

Guthrie’s friendship with Jenna Bush Hager evolved from neighborly interactions to a deep and supportive relationship. Their shared experiences as mothers and their proximity living next door fostered a bond that has only grown stronger. Guthrie, who is the godmother of Hager’s son, appreciates the trust and camaraderie they share, despite the occasional humorous revelations about their personal lives. Their friendship is built on mutual respect and joy, enriching both their personal and professional lives.

Balancing Faith, Family, and Career

Guthrie’s personal life is deeply rooted in faith and family. She strives to instill a sense of God’s presence in her children’s lives, drawing from her own experiences and values. Her children’s book, Mostly What God Does is Love You, reflects her desire to share this message of love and connection. Guthrie openly discusses the challenges of balancing her demanding career with parenthood, acknowledging the constant guilt and adjustments necessary to maintain harmony. She emphasizes the importance of intentional parenting, aiming to raise kind and purposeful individuals. Guthrie’s journey into motherhood, which began later in life, taught her valuable lessons in patience and faith, offering hope to others navigating similar paths.

Looking Ahead: Legacy and the Future

As Guthrie reflects on her legacy, she hopes to be remembered for her thoughtful stewardship of the Today show. She approaches each day with gratitude for the opportunities she has had and the people she has met. While she is content with her current role, Guthrie remains open to future possibilities, trusting in the timing of life’s events. Her story is one of grace, resilience, and the pursuit of meaning, both on and off the screen.