Wisconsin native Brenda Speth caught the journalism bug while attending the University of Wisconsin at Madison, and she’s been under its influence ever since. “I was a journalism major and wandered into the offices of the Badger Herald, one of two campus newspapers. I was immediately put to work as the ‘assistant advertising manager,’ which pretty much meant I was the advertising manager’s gopher. I loved it, though, and set my sights on a career in the newspaper business.”
So far, it’s worked out pretty well. “I’ve spent my whole career in the newspaper business. Most recently I was publisher of the Corvallis Gazette Times in Corvallis, Oregon.” Now publisher of the Napa Valley Register, this married mom enthusiastically credits her college days for her success: “I got a great education—with a broad range of courses, from media research, ethics in journalism, advertising copy and layout, the history of journalism and journalism in emerging countries—that really prepared me for a career in the newspaper business.”
Do you believe ignorance is bliss?
No. I think curiosity is an essential quality for any executive to have but even more so in the news business. Getting to the truth means verifying sources, gathering different points of view and asking that one last question. There’s an old saying I live by: “If your mama says she loves you, check it out.””
Do you keep up with fashion?
I try to keep up with trends, so I’m aware of what potential readers may be interested in. I follow fashion for that reason, but my wardrobe certainly doesn’t reflect any effort to stay up with the latest styles. I tell my kids I’m a trendsetter. They don’t buy it.
Have you forgiven yourself for past personal failures? Why or why not?
I’ll always forgive myself for failing if I gave my best effort.
If you could be a contestant on any game show, which would you choose?
“Jeopardy.” Not for the winnings but for the badge of honor that would come from knowing I could hold my own with some really bright people.
If you could rid the world of one evil, which would it be?
Lack of personal responsibility.
Describe your favorite pair of shoes.
In my mid-thirties, I signed up for an “Adult Ballet” class. I thought it would be a great, fun way to get back in shape and gain some strength and flexibility. At the first class, I realized the other “adults” were all of 16 years old (compared to my 35), and we would start preparing for a recital almost immediately—not exactly what I had signed on to do. But I stuck it out, survived the recital and even inspired some other moms to take up dance. I soon expanded to tap, jazz and eventually ballet on pointe. I’ve had to scale back in the last few years, but every once in a while I tie on the pointe shoes just to prove I still can.
If you were stranded on a deserted island, what three “luxury items” would you want with you?
Calistoga sparkling mineral water, a down comforter and books.
What compliment did you receive lately that you really savored?
Someone told me I was their favorite publisher—and it wasn’t someone who had a vested interest in buttering up the boss or gaining a favor.
What food do you hate?
Peanut butter.
What lesson has failure taught you?
Failure is the best teacher in the world. It teaches us where we should be pointed in order to succeed.
What movies have you watched over and over again?
“Rudy” for the inspiration, “The Village” for a good scare without the gore (plus the cinematography is beautiful) and “Napoleon Dynamite” because every time I see it, I find something new to laugh about.
What remedy for the common cold works best for you?
Prevention has worked well—staying fit, eating properly and keeping balance in my life. If all else fails, really spicy food helps a fever spike and burn up those nasty germs!
What’s one thing you’d really like to learn to do?
Sing.
What’s something you intended to do today but didn’t? Why?
I’ve been promising to send a bottle of wine to a friend for about three months now. I want it to be just perfect, so I’m doing a lot of research.
What’s your favorite day of the week? Why?
Tuesday is the most productive day of the week.
What’s one of your happiest moments?
Seeing my oldest son graduate with honors from Air Force basic military training this past January. There’s nothing more fulfilling than seeing your child find his or her passion and excel at it.
