In the latest issue of Closer Weekly, legendary journalist Jane Pauley shares an intimate story about a pivotal moment in her high school years that shaped the person she became today. It’s the kind of story that reminds us all how life has a funny way of working out, even when things don’t go as planned.
Growing up in Indianapolis, Jane Pauley, the beloved CBS Sunday Morning host, recalls feeling on top of the world when she made the cheerleading squad back in sixth grade. At just 67 years old, she reflects on those days with fondness. However, life threw her a curveball when she failed to make the squad again four years later. That disappointment stung, but as she shares with Closer Weekly, it opened the door to something far greater. "I was heartbroken at first," Jane admits. "But that’s when I discovered my high school had one of the best speech and debate programs in the country. It was like a lightbulb went off. I realized I wasn’t cut out to be a cheerleader, but I had another talent I hadn’t even considered."
From Speech and Debate to Broadcast Journalism
Jane’s journey from speech and debate champion to broadcast journalism is nothing short of inspiring. Her talent for public speaking earned her a spot on the Today show at just 25 years old, a platform that would launch her into the national spotlight. Reflecting on her experience, Jane advises young people, "If you try too hard to be what’s successful for someone else, you might miss out on discovering your own unique strengths. Sometimes, the things we see as failures can lead us to our true calling."
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A Life of Reflection and Gratitude
Today, Jane is happily married to Doonesbury cartoonist Garry Trudeau, 69, and she’s embracing her role as a grandmother for the third time. Despite all her accomplishments, she still gets emotional when reflecting on that pivotal moment in her life. "Not making cheerleader in the 10th grade turned out to be one of the most important moments of my life," Jane tells Closer Weekly. "It taught me that sometimes, the things we think are setbacks can actually be blessings in disguise."
For more inspiring stories from Jane Pauley, grab the latest issue of Closer Weekly, available now at newsstands. And don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter for exclusive updates!
