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Recode Decode: Katie Couric

Decoder with Nilay Patel · with Katie Couric · June 12, 2020 · 61 min

Summary

This episode offers a candid conversation with veteran journalist Katie Couric, exploring the evolving landscape of journalism, the tightrope walk between objectivity and advocacy, and how to navigate a fragmented news environment. Listeners will gain perspective on the ethical considerations of reporting in a politically charged world and the societal impact of media.

Key takeaways

Themes

founder & leadershipbrand & content

Topics covered

journalism ethicsmedia landscapepolitical polarizationhistorical interpretationinterview strategies

Episode description

Katie Couric, the former host of the Today Show and anchor of the CBS Evening News, talks with Recode's Kara Swisher about why the current moment of political protest feels unlike anything that came before; the fine line between objectivity and advocacy in journalism; and her upcoming memoir, Unexpected. Couric also discusses the battle over Confederate history and art in the south, America's divided news diet, and what she thought of the Apple TV+ series The Morning Show. Plus: Her famous interview with Sarah Palin in 2008, and what she would ask Donald Trump if he sat with her for a 1:1 interview. Featuring: Katie Couric (@katiecouric), host, Next Question with Katie Couric Host: Kara Swisher (@karaswisher), Recode co-founder and editor-at-large More to explore: On Reset, Arielle Duhaime-Ross explores why — and how — tech is changing everything. On Recode Media, Peter Kafka interviews business titans, journalists, comedians and podcasters about the collision of tech and media. On Pivot, Kara Swisher and Scott Galloway talk about the big tech news stories of the week, who's winning, who's failing, and what comes next. And on Land of the Giants, Jason Del Rey chronicled the rise of Amazon. Season 2 will focus on Netflix and is coming soon! About Recode by Vox: Recode by Vox helps you understand how tech is changing the world — and changing us. Follow Us: Newsletter: Recode Daily Twitter: @Recode and @voxdotcom Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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Frequently asked about this episode

What does this episode say about founder & leadership?
Journalists face an ongoing challenge in balancing unbiased reporting with the responsibility to advocate for truth and important causes, especially in divisive political climates.
What does this episode say about brand & content?
The proliferation of media channels and fragmented news consumption habits contribute to political polarization and make it harder for the public to access a shared understanding of events.
What does this episode say about founder & leadership?
Engaging with historical controversies, such as those surrounding Confederate symbols, requires careful consideration of historical context and present-day impact.
What does this episode say about founder & leadership?
The future of journalism depends on adapting to technological changes while upholding ethical standards and effectively interviewing influential figures like politicians.

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