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Intelligence Squared
Sam McAlister on Scandals, Scoops, and the Prince Andrew Interview (Part Two)
Mar 3, 2025
Sam McAlister, a BAFTA and Emmy-nominated producer, shares her experience behind the shocking Newsnight interview with Prince Andrew, where he famously claimed an alibi involving Pizza Express. She delves into the complexities of securing high-profile interviews, including a failed attempt at engaging President Trump. McAlister also discusses the evolving media landscape, the importance of integrity in journalism, and her personal journey transitioning from a barrister to a media powerhouse. Don't miss her insights on celebrity, accountability, and the art of negotiation.
29:04
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Quick takeaways
- Sam McAlister emphasizes the importance of building trust and maintaining honesty to secure high-profile interviews in today's competitive media landscape.
- The modern media environment complicates the negotiation process due to the increased volume of requests and the selectivity of interviewees.
Deep dives
The Art of Securing Big Interviews
Securing interviews with high-profile individuals can be a challenging process, often requiring persistence and creativity. Sam McAllister shares her experience attempting to book Sir Philip Green, which took nearly two years and involved building a rapport over phone conversations and even encountering him in person. Ultimately, despite her efforts, Green opted to give an exclusive interview to another journalist, highlighting the competitive nature of getting access to significant figures. This experience reinforced the importance of trust-building and understanding the motivations behind why someone would agree to an interview.
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Discover
highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode