Conversations with Tyler

Samantha Power on Learning How to Make a Difference

Sep 11, 2019

Samantha Power, a former war correspondent and UN ambassador, shares her journey of writing her memoir, discussing the fine line between authenticity and dignity. She reflects on the traits that make effective diplomats, like empathy and active listening. Power also dives into the complexities of U.S.-China relations, the rarity of democracy in the Middle East, and the dynamics of baseball's evolution. Additionally, she tackles NATO's defense spending issues and the waning role of Congress in foreign policy, all while emphasizing the power of storytelling to inspire change.

01:06:34

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Episode guests

Samantha Power

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Episode notes

Intro

2min

Navigating Conflict: Traits of Diplomats and Correspondents

9min

Navigating International Relations and Human Rights

26min

Baseball's Evolution and Memoir Insights

16min

Strategic Maneuvers in International Waters

2min

NATO's Defense Spending Dilemma

6min

The Diminishing Role of Congress in Foreign Policy

5min

A former war correspondent and UN ambassador, Samantha Power has had her share of tough assignments. But writing a memoir about it all is also a daunting prospect. The format itself is a challenge: how do you convince the reader you’re worth spending time with? How do you paint a relatable portrait without oversharing and losing your dignity? For Samantha the answer was settling upon a purpose for her memoir and ruthlessly cutting out everything not in service of that.

Tyler and Samantha discuss that purpose and more, including what she learned as an Irish immigrant, the personality traits of good diplomats (and war correspondents), relations with China, why democracy is so rare in the Middle East, the truth about Richard Holbrooke, what factors mitigate against humanitarian intervention, her favorite memoir, how to get NATO members to spend more on defense, and whether baseball games are too long.

Read a full transcript enhanced with helpful links.

Recorded July 30th, 2019 Other ways to connect

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