David Remnick

Design Matters with Debbie Millman

Primary Topic

This episode is about the life, career, and insights of David Remnick, editor of The New Yorker magazine, including his background, experiences, and views on journalism and writing.

Episode Summary

In this episode of "Design Matters" with Debbie Millman, David Remnick, editor of The New Yorker, delves into his personal history, career trajectory, and perspectives on journalism. Remnick shares anecdotes from his childhood, such as reading the Village Voice at a 7-Eleven, and his early passion for writing and reporting. He reflects on his college years, his stint in Russia, and the serendipitous path that led him to become a journalist instead of a novelist. Remnick discusses the evolution of The New Yorker under his leadership, touching on the challenges of the digital age and the importance of maintaining journalistic integrity. The conversation also covers Remnick's musical influences, particularly Bob Dylan, and concludes with his thoughts on the current state of democracy and journalism.

Main Takeaways

  1. David Remnick's early life and interests in journalism and music significantly shaped his career.
  2. His leadership at The New Yorker has navigated the magazine through the digital transformation in the publishing industry.
  3. Remnick emphasizes the importance of journalistic integrity and the role of media in holding power to account.
  4. The discussion reflects on the changing nature of news consumption and the challenges facing the journalism industry.
  5. Remnick’s anecdotes and experiences provide insights into the personal journey and mindset of a leading figure in journalism.

Episode Chapters

1: Early Life and Education

David Remnick discusses his upbringing in New Jersey, early exposure to journalism, and education, leading to his career in writing.

  • David Remnick: "I thought even as I got older, I think the Village Voice really had kind of two big moments when it was first invented."

2: Career Beginnings and The New Yorker

Remnick shares his journey from a young journalist to becoming the editor of The New Yorker, including challenges and milestones.

  • David Remnick: "And yet I wrote the piece anyway, because that's what one does."

3: Editorial Philosophy and Challenges

The conversation dives into Remnick's editorial philosophy at The New Yorker, the impact of digital media, and the importance of fact-checking.

  • David Remnick: "It has to ask hard questions. It has to not pander to its audience in any way."

4: Personal Reflections and Musical Influences

Remnick reflects on personal stories, his passion for music, particularly Bob Dylan, and how these experiences influence his work and life.

  • David Remnick: "But this was something completely mysterious. And to this day, I mean, I think the last time I saw Bob Dylan was four months ago."

5: Journalism's Role in Democracy

The episode concludes with Remnick's thoughts on journalism's critical role in supporting democracy and the broader societal impact.

  • David Remnick: "But there was some sense that the world could turn a corner for the better."

Actionable Advice

  1. Cultivate a broad range of interests to inform and enrich your work.
  2. Embrace the evolution of your career path, even if it diverges from your initial plans.
  3. Uphold integrity and rigor in journalism or any creative pursuit.
  4. Adapt to technological changes while maintaining the core values of your work.
  5. Engage with historical and contemporary influences to shape your perspective and approach.

About This Episode

Since 1998, David Remnick has been the editor of The New Yorker and has written hundreds of pieces for the magazine, including reporting from Russia, the Middle East, and Europe and Profiles of Barack Obama, Bill Clinton, Katharine Graham, Mike Tyson, Bruce Springsteen and more. He also hosts the magazine’s national radio program and podcast, “The New Yorker Radio Hour.” He joins live at the On Air Fest to talk about his legendary life and career.

People

David Remnick, Debbie Millman

Companies

The New Yorker, Village Voice

Books

None

Guest Name(s):

David Remnick

Content Warnings:

None