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Bari Weiss

Bari Weiss is an American journalist, opinion writer, and media entrepreneur.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Bari Weiss is an American journalist, opinion writer, and media entrepreneur. She is the founder of The Free Press and, according to recent reporting, the editor-in-chief of CBS News. Weiss is also known for her commentary on politics, culture, and Israel.

Early life and education

Bari Weiss was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in 1984. Public biographies describe her as an American journalist and writer from Pittsburgh.

Journalism career

Weiss worked at The Wall Street Journal and later The New York Times as an opinion editor and writer. She has also contributed to other outlets and later became editor-in-chief of CBS News.

The Free Press and podcasting

In 2021, Weiss founded The Free Press, a media company that began as a newsletter called Common Sense. She also hosts the podcast Honestly.

Public profile and viewpoints

Weiss is widely associated with pro-Israel commentary and criticism of progressive politics. Coverage of her work has also emphasized her role in debates over media, speech, and ideology.

Key facts

  • Bari Weiss is an American journalist, opinion writer, and media entrepreneur.
  • She founded The Free Press and hosts the podcast Honestly.
  • Weiss has worked for The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, and CBS News.
  • She is known for pro-Israel views and criticism of progressive politics.
  • Weiss is married to journalist Nellie Bowles.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Bari Weiss?
Bari Weiss is an American journalist, opinion writer, and media entrepreneur known for her work in major news organizations and for founding The Free Press.
What does Bari Weiss do?
She writes and edits journalism, hosts the podcast Honestly, and leads The Free Press. Recent reporting also identifies her as editor-in-chief of CBS News.
Where did Bari Weiss work?
She has worked for The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, and CBS News, and she has also been associated with Tablet and Die Welt.
Is Bari Weiss married?
Yes. She is married to journalist Nellie Bowles.
What is Bari Weiss known for?
She is known for opinion journalism, founding The Free Press, her pro-Israel views, and her criticism of progressive politics and media institutions.
What is Bari Weiss's substack?
Her Substack newsletter was originally called Common Sense and later became The Free Press.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bari_Weiss
    Supports: Birth date, occupation, career summary, The Free Press, and general biographical details.
  2. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/biography/Bari-Weiss
    Supports: American opinion journalist, employment at The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times, and appointment at CBS News.
  3. Bari Weiss — https://www.bariweiss.com/
    Supports: Self-described roles, The Free Press, Honestly podcast, awards, and personal statement that she lives with her wife and daughter.
  4. Jewish Telegraphic Agency — https://www.jta.org/2025/10/06/united-states/bari-weiss-free-press-founder-who-started-as-antisemitism-crusader-named-editor-in-chief-of-cbs
    Supports: Her prominence, pro-Israel/antisemitism-related coverage, and appointment as editor-in-chief of CBS News.
  5. NPR — https://www.npr.org/2025/10/06/nx-s1-5563786/bari-weiss-cbs-news-free-press
    Supports: The Free Press acquisition context and Weiss's appointment to lead CBS News.