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Gannett taps former People editor-in-chief as executive editor of entertainment

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  USA TODAY parent company Gannett named Wendy Naugle, former editor-in-chief for People, as its new executive editor of entertainment.

Wendy Naugle Joins Gannett and USA TODAY in Key Editorial Role


In a significant move within the media industry, Wendy Naugle, a seasoned editor with a proven track record in lifestyle and consumer journalism, has been appointed to a prominent position at Gannett Co. Inc., the parent company of USA TODAY. The announcement, made on July 16, 2025, highlights Naugle's expertise in digital storytelling and audience engagement, positioning her as a vital asset in enhancing the company's content strategy amid evolving media landscapes.

Naugle, previously the editor-in-chief of People magazine, brings over two decades of experience in journalism to her new role. At People, she oversaw a transformation that emphasized digital innovation, including the expansion of video content, podcasts, and interactive features that resonated with younger demographics. Her leadership there was marked by a focus on inclusive storytelling, covering topics from celebrity news to human interest stories that addressed social issues like mental health and diversity. This approach not only boosted reader engagement but also adapted the publication to the challenges of declining print circulation by prioritizing online platforms.

Her appointment at Gannett comes at a time when the company is intensifying efforts to strengthen its digital presence. Gannett, which owns USA TODAY along with hundreds of local newspapers across the United States, has been navigating the turbulent waters of the media industry, including revenue shifts from traditional advertising to subscription models and sponsored content. Naugle's role will specifically involve overseeing editorial content for USA TODAY's money and business sections, where she is expected to infuse fresh perspectives on personal finance, economic trends, and consumer advice. This aligns with Gannett's broader strategy to provide actionable, relatable journalism that helps readers make informed decisions in their daily lives.

In her statement regarding the move, Naugle expressed enthusiasm about joining a network that reaches millions of Americans. "I'm thrilled to be part of Gannett and USA TODAY, where journalism serves as a bridge between complex economic realities and everyday people," she said. "In today's fast-paced world, it's crucial to deliver content that not only informs but empowers readers to navigate financial challenges with confidence. I look forward to collaborating with the talented teams here to create stories that matter."

Gannett executives echoed this sentiment, emphasizing Naugle's ability to blend compelling narratives with data-driven insights. Mike Reed, CEO of Gannett, noted, "Wendy's innovative approach to journalism is exactly what we need to elevate our coverage in key areas like money and business. Her experience in transforming legacy brands into digital powerhouses will be instrumental as we continue to adapt to audience needs." This hire is seen as part of a series of strategic appointments aimed at bolstering Gannett's competitive edge against digital-native outlets and social media platforms that have disrupted traditional news consumption.

To understand the full impact of Naugle's addition, it's worth delving into her professional journey. Naugle began her career in the early 2000s at various regional publications, honing her skills in feature writing and investigative reporting. She rose through the ranks at Meredith Corporation before landing at People in 2018. During her tenure, she spearheaded initiatives that increased digital traffic by over 30%, according to industry reports, by integrating user-generated content and SEO-optimized articles. One notable project under her watch was the "Real Life" series, which profiled ordinary individuals facing extraordinary financial hurdles, such as student debt or housing affordability, drawing parallels to broader economic policies.

This expertise is particularly relevant for USA TODAY's money section, which has long been a go-to resource for topics like stock market updates, retirement planning, and consumer product reviews. With Naugle on board, there's anticipation for more in-depth features that explore the intersection of money with lifestyle choices. For instance, she might champion stories on how inflation affects family budgets, the rise of gig economy jobs, or sustainable investing trends that appeal to environmentally conscious millennials and Gen Z readers.

The media landscape in 2025 continues to evolve rapidly, influenced by advancements in AI-driven content creation, the proliferation of short-form video on platforms like TikTok, and shifting consumer preferences toward personalized news feeds. Gannett has been proactive in these areas, investing in technology to enhance user experience, such as recommendation algorithms and mobile apps. Naugle's arrival could accelerate these efforts, potentially leading to new formats like interactive financial calculators or virtual reality experiences that simulate economic scenarios.

Industry analysts view this hire as a smart pivot for Gannett, especially given the challenges faced by print media. The company has undergone restructuring in recent years, including mergers and cost-cutting measures, to sustain profitability. By bringing in talent like Naugle, Gannett signals a commitment to quality journalism that transcends mere news delivery, focusing instead on building community and trust. Her background in audience analytics will likely inform data-informed decisions, ensuring content resonates with diverse demographics across urban, suburban, and rural America.

Beyond her editorial prowess, Naugle is known for her advocacy in promoting diversity within newsrooms. She has been vocal about the need for inclusive hiring practices and representation in storytelling, which has earned her recognition from organizations like the National Association of Black Journalists and the Asian American Journalists Association. At Gannett, she is expected to continue this work, perhaps by mentoring emerging journalists and pushing for coverage that reflects the multifaceted experiences of American consumers.

Looking ahead, Naugle's influence could extend to collaborative projects across Gannett's portfolio. USA TODAY, with its national reach, often partners with local affiliates for comprehensive reporting on economic issues, such as regional job markets or housing crises. Her strategic vision might foster more integrated storytelling, blending national trends with local insights to create a more holistic view of the economy.

This appointment also underscores broader trends in the industry, where experienced editors are increasingly sought after to bridge the gap between traditional journalism and digital innovation. Competitors like The New York Times and The Washington Post have similarly invested in high-profile hires to bolster their business and finance coverage, recognizing that informed financial journalism is key to subscriber retention.

In summary, Wendy Naugle's joining of Gannett and USA TODAY represents a fusion of seasoned expertise and forward-thinking strategy. Her role promises to enrich the money section with engaging, relevant content that addresses the financial realities of modern life. As she settles into her position, readers can anticipate a refreshed approach to business journalism that is both informative and inspiring, helping to demystify complex topics and empower individuals in an uncertain economic climate.

Naugle's transition also highlights the dynamic nature of media careers, where adaptability and creativity are paramount. With her at the helm of key editorial initiatives, Gannett is poised to not only maintain its stature but to thrive in an era defined by digital disruption and audience empowerment. This move could very well set a precedent for how legacy media companies reinvent themselves, ensuring that journalism remains a vital force in society.

Expanding on the potential long-term effects, Naugle's leadership might inspire a wave of content innovations. For example, she could introduce multimedia series that combine articles with podcasts, featuring interviews with financial experts and everyday people sharing their money stories. This could enhance user engagement, encouraging longer dwell times on the USA TODAY website and app. Moreover, in an age where misinformation about finances proliferates online, her emphasis on fact-checked, reliable reporting will be crucial.

From a business perspective, this hire aligns with Gannett's revenue goals. By producing high-quality, shareable content, the company can attract more advertisers in sectors like banking, real estate, and personal finance services. Naugle's track record suggests she understands how to monetize content without compromising editorial integrity, a delicate balance in today's media environment.

Critics and supporters alike will be watching closely. Some may question whether her lifestyle journalism background fully translates to hard-hitting business reporting, but her adaptability and past successes indicate she's up to the task. Ultimately, this development is a positive step for Gannett, reinforcing its commitment to evolving with its audience while upholding journalistic standards.

As the media world continues to shift, figures like Wendy Naugle remind us of the human element in storytelling. Her passion for connecting with readers on a personal level could redefine how we consume financial news, making it more accessible and relatable for all.

Read the Full USA Today Article at:
[ https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2025/07/16/wendy-naugle-joins-gannett-usa-today/85242202007/ ]