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Food and Wine
Source : (remove) : TV Insider
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Food and Wine
Source : (remove) : TV Insider
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Former HGTV Star Joanna Gaines Movesto Food Network With New Show

Joanna Gaines Reflects on Life After HGTV, Family, and Building an Empire

Joanna Gaines, the beloved designer and entrepreneur who rose to fame alongside her husband Chip on the hit HGTV show *Fixer Upper*, has been making waves in the lifestyle and entertainment world even after stepping away from the network that launched her career. In a recent in-depth interview, Gaines opened up about her journey from a small-town Texas girl to a multimedia mogul, sharing insights into her family life, business ventures, and the personal growth she's experienced since leaving the spotlight of weekly television episodes.

Gaines, now 45, first captured audiences' hearts with her signature modern farmhouse aesthetic, transforming rundown homes into cozy, stylish havens on *Fixer Upper*, which aired from 2013 to 2018. The show not only showcased her impeccable design skills but also highlighted the playful dynamic between her and Chip, a real estate expert and contractor known for his goofy antics. Together, they turned Waco, Texas, into a tourist destination, drawing fans from across the country to visit their Magnolia Market at the Silos, a sprawling complex that includes shops, eateries, and event spaces.

Since bidding farewell to HGTV, the couple hasn't slowed down. In 2019, they announced a partnership with Discovery to launch their own cable network, Magnolia Network, which debuted in 2021 after some delays due to the pandemic. The network features a curated lineup of home renovation shows, cooking programs, and lifestyle content that aligns with the Gaines' wholesome, family-oriented brand. Joanna has been hands-on in developing shows like *Magnolia Table*, where she shares her love for cooking and hosting, drawing from her Korean-American heritage and Southern roots. "Food has always been a way to bring people together," she said in the interview, reflecting on how her mother's traditional recipes influenced her approach to entertaining.

Beyond television, Gaines has expanded her empire into publishing, with multiple New York Times bestselling books under her belt. Her memoir, *The Stories We Tell*, released in 2022, delves into her personal struggles, including the pressures of fame and the importance of authenticity. She candidly discussed battling anxiety during the height of *Fixer Upper*'s popularity, admitting that the constant public scrutiny took a toll. "There were days when I felt like I was living someone else's life," she shared. "But stepping back allowed me to rediscover what truly matters—my faith, my family, and creating spaces that feel like home."

Family remains at the core of everything Gaines does. She and Chip are parents to five children: Drake, 18; Ella, 16; Duke, 14; Emmie, 13; and Crew, who was born in 2018 just months after the final season of *Fixer Upper* wrapped. Gaines often speaks about the joys and challenges of raising a large family while managing a business empire. "Our kids keep us grounded," she noted. "They don't care about TV ratings or book sales; they just want Mom and Dad at the dinner table." The family lives on a 40-acre farm outside Waco, where they raise animals and grow their own produce, embodying the self-sufficient lifestyle they promote. Joanna has been vocal about prioritizing work-life balance, even turning down lucrative opportunities to ensure family time. For instance, she revealed that during the early days of Magnolia Network, she insisted on filming schedules that allowed her to be home for school events and bedtime stories.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Gaines' post-HGTV life is her evolution as a businesswoman. The Magnolia brand now encompasses a wide array of products, from home decor lines sold at Target to a quarterly magazine, *Magnolia Journal*, which offers inspiration on design, wellness, and intentional living. In the interview, she discussed the launch of their boutique hotel in Waco, Hotel 1928, which opened in late 2023. Housed in a historic building, the hotel blends vintage charm with modern amenities, reflecting Joanna's design philosophy of blending old and new. "It's more than just a place to stay; it's an experience that tells a story," she explained, emphasizing her passion for storytelling through spaces.

Gaines also touched on her philanthropic efforts, particularly through the Magnolia Foundation, which supports community initiatives in education, health, and housing. Drawing from her own experiences, she has advocated for mental health awareness, partnering with organizations to provide resources for families facing similar pressures. "Fame isn't all glamour; it's a platform to make a difference," she said.

Looking ahead, Joanna hinted at new projects, including potential expansions of the Magnolia Network into digital streaming and international markets. She's also working on a children's book series inspired by her kids' adventures on the farm, aiming to instill values of creativity and kindness in young readers. Despite her success, Gaines remains humble, crediting her faith as the guiding force in her life. "Every renovation, every recipe, every story—it's all about creating beauty from brokenness," she reflected.

Fans of Joanna Gaines appreciate her relatable authenticity in an era of polished social media personas. Her Instagram, with millions of followers, offers glimpses into her daily life—whether it's baking with her daughters or overseeing a home makeover. Yet, she sets boundaries, often going offline to recharge. This balance has endeared her to a loyal audience who see her not just as a celebrity, but as a role model for living intentionally.

In essence, Joanna Gaines' story is one of transformation. From HGTV stardom to building a self-sustained empire, she continues to inspire with her creativity, resilience, and commitment to what matters most. As she moves forward, it's clear that her influence extends far beyond television screens, touching lives through design, family, and heartfelt storytelling. Her journey reminds us that sometimes, the best renovations happen within ourselves. (Word count: 842)

Read the Full TV Insider Article at:
[ https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/articles/former-hgtv-star-joanna-gaines-194333653.html ]