At a time when trust in the news is fading, V Spehar has built something rare: a space where people feel informed and understood. As the founder of Under the Desk News, they’ve created a community of millions who come for context that cuts through the noise. Named one of TIME100’s Most Influential Digital Voices, V has become a steady presence in a chaotic media landscape Their storytelling bridges the space between breaking stories and human stories, showing that understanding current events starts with empathy, not outrage.

A seasoned journalist with a sharp grasp of politics, policy, and culture, V has reported from the Democratic National Convention and the Paris Olympics, and conducted interviews with Presidents Biden and Obama. Their work reflects a command of complex issues and a talent for translating them into something people can actually use and understand. Their work has appeared in outlets such as The Washington Post and NBC News, and they are frequently featured as a guest contributor on MS NOW and CNN.

V approaches the stage like they approach the news, with curiosity, precision, and a clear sense of responsibility. Their talks cut through noise and polarization, inviting people to think critically while remembering the humanity behind every headline.