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Recode Decode: Michael Barbaro, host of the New York Times podcast The Daily (Live)

Decoder with Nilay Patel · with Michael Barbaro · June 18, 2018 · 69 min

Summary

This episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at The Daily podcast, focusing on Michael Barbaro's journey into audio journalism and the intricate process of producing a leading news podcast. It provides valuable insights into content creation, editorial decisions, and the strategic considerations behind building a compelling audio product.

Key takeaways

Topics covered

podcast productionaudio journalismnarrative storytellingeditorial decision-makingpodcast monetizationinterviewing techniquesmedia trends

Episode description

Michael Barbaro, who hosts the hit podcast The Daily for the New York Times, talks with Recode's Kara Swisher in front of a live audience at the 92nd Street Y in New York City. Barbaro explains why he fell in love with newspapers at a young age, how he got into journalism and how he transitioned from being a political reporter to a self-described audio "geek." He discusses what happens behind the scenes every day at the show and why, in the edited interviews, he sometimes can be heard taking long ... pauses. Plus: How The Daily staff decides what goes on the air, why Barbaro doesn't read the ads on his show and why he's not interested in talking about Donald Trump's tweets on the podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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Frequently asked about this episode

What's takeaway #1 from this episode?
Michael Barbaro's career trajectory from political reporter to podcast host highlights the evolving landscape of media consumption and the increasing importance of audio-first content.
What's takeaway #2 from this episode?
The Daily's editorial process emphasizes narrative journalism and curated storytelling, offering a model for how to transform complex topics into engaging daily content.
What's takeaway #3 from this episode?
Consider how the host's persona and interviewing style, including strategic use of pauses, can significantly impact listener engagement and the overall narrative flow of a podcast.
What's takeaway #4 from this episode?
The discussion around advertising strategies, particularly Barbaro's refusal to read ads, prompts reflection on various monetization approaches and how they align with brand integrity.
What's takeaway #5 from this episode?
The episode underscores the strategic choice to prioritize in-depth analysis over ephemeral news, offering a lesson in creating lasting content in a saturated media environment.

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