From CNN anchors to lifelong friends, Daryn Kagan and Bill Hemmer reunite to toast decades of broadcast journalism, newsroom camaraderie, and life lessons.

What happens when your “arranged marriage” at work turns into a real friendship? In this heartfelt and hilarious episode of Call Me Friend, host Daryn Kagan reconnects with her former CNN co-anchor, now Fox News host, Bill Hemmer. Their candid chat explores journalism careers, behind the scenes moments as TV co-anchors, and the surprising rituals (yes, banana toast!) that kept them grounded.

In This Episode You Will Learn

What it’s really like to co-anchor a national newscast with someone you barely know and how it can spark a real-life friendship
The banana toast ritual that brought levity and grounding to high-stakes newsroom life
How Bill Hemmer and Daryn Kagan navigated grief, growth, and legacy as longtime broadcast journalists
Why “work spouse” dynamics matter and how co-anchor chemistry affects the viewer experience
Practical advice from Bill for young journalists entering media careers in today’s fast-paced environment
Behind-the-scenes stories from CNN to Fox News and the evolution of journalism careers through decades of change
What June 1st means to Bill Hemmer and why this date connects his past and present as a news anchor
How travel, curiosity, and lifelong learning fuel the careers and friendships of veteran TV journalists

From covering breaking news to navigating personal loss, and from media industry stories to cross network friendship, this episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the real people behind the news anchor stories. Expect laughter, heart, and valuable insight into how two broadcast journalism pros built a lasting bond in the spotlight and beyond.

Key Timestamps

(0:00) Daryn and Bill reflect on their chemistry as CNN anchors and their unique “arranged” friendship at work
(4:06) Daryn’s bold move from reporter to TV co-anchor and sports journalist
(5:12) How CNN paired them up and how this “work spouse” dynamic became iconic
(6:42) The inside story of their banana toast ritual, a newsroom favorite
(11:36) Bill on grief, family, and the strength it takes in journalism careers
(17:42) Why June 1st is Bill’s most meaningful date as both a CNN and Fox News host
(21:30) His go to advice for young journalists building media industry stories
(23:12) How TV co-anchors stay grounded amid politics, pressure, and public perception
(27:42) Lessons from a long career in news: the human side of broadcast journalism
(30:00) How classic, tactile prep keeps Bill grounded in today’s media
(31:31) Bill on wanderlust, what's next, and friendship that’s built to last
(35:00) Emirates flights, travel dreams, and more real-life stories from two newsroom pros

Key Takeaways

Chemistry Can’t Be Faked: Real chemistry between TV co-anchors is built on true friendship at worK and shows up on screen.
Mentorship That Matters: Bill shares timeless media industry stories and advice for journalism careers: ask questions, show up, play well.
Grief, Gratitude, Legacy: Bill opens up about his father's passing, a moving moment from a veteran Fox News host.
Curiosity Is a Career Fuel: From CNN anchors to global travelers, Bill and Daryn show how broadcast journalism evolves with purpose.

About the Guest Bill Hemmer

Bill Hemmer is one of the most respected Fox News hosts and a former CNN anchor with a decades-long legacy in broadcast journalism. Known for his thoughtful reporting and calm on-air presence, he’s navigated some of the most critical news anchor stories of our time. From his days as a TV co-anchor with Daryn Kagan to his role today, Hemmer’s journalism career exemplifies professionalism, curiosity, and authenticity. His journey offers a rare look at what it means to be both a work spouse and a newsroom trailblazer.

🧰 Resources & Mentions:

Bill Hemmer X- https://x.com/billhemmer?lang=en
Bill Hemmer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billhemmer/?hl=en
CallMeFriendPodcast.com – Join the conversation or leave a voicemail
Miss Lou’s Cabin:airbnb.com/h/mslouscabin
Call Me Friend Hotline: 912-766-0446 Call Daryn, leave a message, let her know about one of your friends who would make a great story.
Daryn’s Book: Hope Possible: A Network News Anchor's Thoughts On Losing Her Job, Finding Love, A New Career, and My Dog, Always My Dog https://amzn.to/3GPcicB

Let’s add link to MilesHusband Facebook page since Bill and I talk miles and points https://www.facebook.com/TheMilesHusband

Keywords

CNN anchors, Fox News hosts, TV co-anchors, broadcast journalism, journalism careers, news anchor stories, friendship at work, media industry stories, work spouse, Bill Hemmer, Daryn Kagan, behind-the-scenes journalism, banana toast ritual, veteran journalists, co-anchor chemistry