Ashley Strohmier: From Miss Missouri to Fox News Anchor and New Mom
She’s known for delivering headlines while most of America sleeps, but in late 2023, Ashley Strohmier made headlines of her own. The FOX & Friends First guest host and overnight news anchor stepped into a brand-new role: mom. Strohmier and her husband, NYPD officer and fitness influencer Mike Counihan, welcomed their first child, a baby boy, in October 2023, bringing new joy to their already driven lives.
From Miss Missouri to the National Stage
A native of Jefferson City, Missouri, Strohmier first stepped into the public eye in 2010 when she was crowned Miss Missouri USA, foreshadowing her ease on camera and public poise. She studied criminal justice at the University of Central Missouri, originally aspiring to a career in law and public service—but journalism called.
Strohmier began her career reporting across Missouri, working at Columbia’s FOX 22 before moving to KMIZ-TV (ABC), where she served as investigative reporter, solo morning anchor, and producer. Her fearless 2014 reporting on Missouri’s Department of Social Services prompted a state investigation and earned her a Kansas City Press Club award. By 2019, she was named Best News Anchor by the Missouri Broadcasters Association.
Anchoring America’s Early Hours
On March 2, 2020, Strohmier joined Fox News Channel, relocating to New York and taking her reporting to a national platform. She quickly became a familiar face on FOX & Friends First, earning praise for her calm, credible delivery during America’s earliest newscasts.
A Power Couple
In April 2022, Strohmier married Mike Counihan, a disciplined NYPD officer and elite athlete. Counihan, a fitness influencer and “New York’s Fittest” honoree, shares Strohmier’s dedication to family and hard work. They balance demanding schedules while making time for travel, family, and their beloved dog, Maggie—affectionately “promoted to baby security.”
Welcoming Their Baby Boy
Ashley announced her pregnancy in May 2023:
“We’re expecting a precious baby boy later this year! Maggie has officially been promoted to baby security/big sister duties!”
Her pregnancy updates mixed candid humor with heartfelt moments. In October 2023, Ashley and Mike welcomed their son, sharing a touching hospital photo and writing:
“Welcome to the world, my sweet baby boy! Everyone is healthy and strong.”
Fans responded with love and excitement, celebrating the new chapter in their lives.
Anchoring Her Own Story
While some anchors keep their private lives private, Strohmier shares just enough to stay relatable without compromising her professionalism. She’s proven that it’s possible to balance a high-profile career with a fulfilling home life.
From Miss Missouri to Fox News, from reporter to national anchor, and now from newlywed to new mom, Ashley Strohmier continues to write her story one headline at a time—this one ending in joy.