Media News

Why Stern left the Wall Street Journal

April 3, 2026

Posted by Chris Roush

Tech journalist Joanna Stern joined Semafor’s “Mixed Signals” shw to discuss leaving The Wall Street Journal after more than a decade to launch her own venture, “New Things,” and what it really takes to bet on yourself in today’s media landscape.

“It’s a complete bet,” said Stern. “I’m betting on myself.” Stern said that it was possible that she could have built a bigger audience if she stayed at The Journal, but there was also the realization that she could “make more of that money if I do go out on my own.”

She’s examining subscriptions, events and partnering with other organizations to share revenue. Stern noted that she loves doing events.

“For me, I want to keep doing what I’ve always done,” said Stern.

Co-hosts Max Tani and Ben Smith asked Stern how she’s using AI as a “co-founder,” and what she learned from immersing herself in artificial intelligence for her new book, “I Am Not a Robot.”

Subscribe to TBN

Receive updates about new stories in the industry daily or weekly.

Subscribe to TBN

Receive updates about new stories in the industry.