Longform Episode 204: Malcolm Gladwell
Aug 3, 2016
Malcolm Gladwell, a staff writer for The New Yorker and bestselling author, discusses the intriguing interplay between audience size and criticism. He explains how his podcast, Revisionist History, came to be as a result of procrastination and the unique storytelling power of audio. Gladwell explores why wealthy donors support already-rich universities, questioning the social impact of such donations. He also shares insights on how revisiting past judgments shapes decisions today, highlighting the complex nature of journalism in the digital age.
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Episode notes
Sound Enables Stronger Emotion
- Gladwell found podcasting unlocked emotional storytelling he couldn't achieve in writing.
- He values sound's ability to convey intimacy and elicit strong reactions from listeners.
Protect Interviewees' Unguarded Moments
- When interviewing, avoid exploiting slips that subjects likely regret and police yourself.
- Prefer using quotes that reflect what the interviewee truly believes and intended to disclose.
Reflection Changes First Impressions
- Revisionist History reframes overlooked past moments to show how reflection alters conclusions.
- Gladwell is obsessed with how immediate judgments differ from considered views.
