Editorial Standards
Last updated: October 20, 2026
Our readers trust us with their time and attention. These are the standards we hold ourselves to in return.
Independence
Our editors decide what we cover and what we say about it. Advertisers, partners, and affiliate programs don't approve or change editorial stories. Paid content is always labeled; see our Advertising & Sponsored Content Policy and Affiliate Disclosure.
Accuracy and sourcing
- We check facts, figures, names, and quotes before publication, and link to or name our sources where we can.
- When a story cites research, we link to the study or a credible summary of it, and we try not to overstate what it shows.
- We distinguish clearly between reporting, opinion, and personal experience.
- We don't invent people, quotes, or events, and we don't present composites as real individuals.
Health, money, and wellbeing
Stories in Mind + Body, Money, and Relationships offer general information and personal perspective, not professional advice. We encourage readers to talk to qualified professionals about their own circumstances.
Personal essays and interviews
Personal essays reflect the writer's own experience and views. Interview subjects know they are speaking for publication. We take particular care with stories involving young people: we don't publish identifying details about minors without permission from a parent or guardian, and we won't publish work by contributors under 18 without that permission either.
Images
We use images we have the right to use, and we credit photographers and sources where credit is required or appropriate.
Corrections
When we get something wrong, we fix it. If you spot an error, email editors@hernichelife.com with the story's title and what needs correcting. We review every correction request. When a correction changes the meaning of a story, we note the change on the story.
Contributors
Contributors are held to these same standards. Our Contributor Submission Terms explain what we expect when you pitch.