The weight of newsroom trauma is something every journalist knows but few talk about. In this episode, Sara Davenport opens up about the stories that haunted her career and the breaking point that made her realize things had to change.

This conversation also marks the close of Season 1 of Breaking Out of Breaking News. While Sara takes time to support journalists inside the Academy, she’s already preparing a powerful Season 2 filled with guests, new perspectives, and more practical strategies for life beyond the newsroom.

If you’ve ever felt like the job stopped loving you back, this episode will remind you: you’re not alone, and there’s life waiting for you beyond the newsroom.

📚 Resources Mentioned

• Journalist Trauma Support Network: https://www.jtsn.org/
• Join the Broadcasters Breakroom: https://www.saradavenport.net/breakroom
• Career Assessment for Journalists: https://www.saradavenport.net/bobn-quiz
• Connect with Sara on LinkedIn
• Email: [email protected]

💡 3 Key Takeaways from This Episode

1. 1. Trauma is cumulative, not occasional. The daily drip of car crashes, fires, and shootings takes its toll, even if you think you’ve “moved on.”
   2. Support can’t wait until tragedy strikes. Every newsroom needs proactive mental health resources, not just temporary help after mass events.
   3. You don’t have to stay stuck. There are resources, networks, and new career paths waiting beyond TV news.

🎧 About the Podcast

Breaking Out of Breaking News is a podcast for burned-out TV news professionals ready to pivot, repurpose their storytelling skills, and design a life they actually love. Hosted by Sara Davenport—a former anchor and media mentor—you’ll get honest conversations, career coaching insights, and real-world inspiration for making your next move.