On with Kara Swisher
Graydon Carter on Vanity Fair, Editing & a Short-Fingered Vulgarian Named Trump
Mar 27, 2025
Graydon Carter, co-founder of Spy Magazine and Air Mail and former editor of Vanity Fair, shares his experiences from the golden age of glossy magazines. He discusses the unique dynamics of editing, the need for anxiety in the role, and the complexities of navigating fame, especially regarding figures like Trump. Carter reflects on the magazine industry's evolution, touching on personal freedoms and the challenges of maintaining journalistic integrity in modern media landscapes. He also shares insights from his memoir and the importance of creativity in publishing.
55:20
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Quick takeaways
- Graydon Carter's career at Vanity Fair exemplified the golden age of magazines, marked by creative freedom and impactful celebrity journalism.
- Carter highlights the vital role of editors in nurturing writers' talents, suggesting that encouragement shapes their performance and creativity.
Deep dives
Graydon Carter's Journey in Journalism
Graydon Carter's early life and career in journalism is marked by an adventurous spirit and a passion for magazines. He grew up in Canada, where he developed a love for publications that brought the world to him, often inspired by the magazines his parents subscribed to. Before entering the editorial world, he had a unique experience working on the Canadian National Railway, which gave him a diverse perspective. His journey from a college literary magazine to becoming a prominent editor reflects his commitment to storytelling and the evolution of media.
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