Design Matters with Debbie Millman: Best of 2024 with Editors – Detailed Summary

Release Date: December 30, 2024

Overview

In the "Best of 2024 with Editors" episode of Design Matters with Debbie Millman, listeners are treated to a curated compilation of insightful excerpts from Debbie's interviews with some of the most influential magazine editors of the year. This episode delves deep into the creative processes, challenges, and triumphs of these editorial leaders, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how they shape the narratives and aesthetics of renowned publications.

1. Stella Bugbee – The Visionary Behind The Cut

Background and Career Trajectory

Stella Bugbee, the Styles Editor at The New York Times since 2021, brings a wealth of experience from her tenure as the editor of New York Magazine's website, The Cut. During her decade-long leadership, Stella transformed The Cut from a modest Fashion Week blog into a formidable magazine brand.

Creating a Space for Authenticity

Stella emphasized her commitment to fostering an environment where creativity and authenticity flourish. She stated:

“My main goal was to create a space where the people working on that project could say whatever they wanted to say in the tone they wanted to say it in.” [08:11]

This philosophy allowed her team to blend serious discussions with light-hearted topics, catering to a diverse audience without being confined by traditional advertising-driven categories.

Building a Community-Driven Magazine

Stella highlighted the importance of community over commercialization:

“We can do what we want and say what we want and that we're not being forced into a silo by some advertising category.” [08:11]

Her approach ensured that The Cut remained a dynamic platform for both profound and playful content, reflecting the multifaceted interests of its readership.

2. Adam Moss – From Magazine Mogul to Artist

Redefining New York Magazine

Adam Moss, whose leadership at New York Magazine led to numerous accolades and a significant digital transformation, discusses his strategic vision:

“What the magazine was really about was not New York City, but a New York City way of looking at the world.” [12:31]

Under his guidance, New York Magazine evolved into a hybrid entity, balancing print excellence with a robust digital presence through brands like Vulture, The Cut, and Intelligencer.

Embracing Digital Transformation

Adam detailed the expansive growth into digital verticals:

“Each experiment we did, trying to build out a sort of constellation really, of digital magazines, was interesting to me and interesting to my colleagues, and it spurred us on to do more and more and more.” [15:02]

This strategy not only modernized the magazine but also ensured its relevance in the rapidly changing media landscape.

A New Artistic Pursuit

After leaving New York Magazine in 2019, Adam ventured into painting, seeking personal fulfillment beyond the editorial realm. Although he encountered challenges in his artistic journey, his experience underscores the complexities of transitioning from one creative field to another.

3. Scott Dadich – Securing an Exclusive with Edward Snowden

The Challenge of an Elite Interview

Scott Dadich, renowned for his role as editor-in-chief at Wired and his capability to secure high-profile interviews, recounts his experience interviewing Edward Snowden in Moscow:

“We sat and we waited and sure enough the phone rang and it was Ed himself.” [38:02]

Navigating Secrecy and Security

Scott emphasized the meticulous planning and security measures necessary for such a high-stakes interview:

“We were there. We did not bring computers. We were not online. We left no digital signatures.” [38:02]

These precautions were vital to protect both the interviewers and Snowden, given the sensitive nature of his revelations.

Preparing for the Unexpected

The interview process was fraught with uncertainty, but Scott's dedication to obtaining a truthful and in-depth conversation paid off, offering readers unprecedented insights into Snowden's experiences and motivations.

4. David Remnick – Steering The New Yorker Through Changing Times

Adapting to the Digital Age

David Remnick, editor of The New Yorker since 1998, discusses the magazine's shift towards a sustainable financial model amidst declining traditional advertising revenues:

“The subscription model is facing challenges, too... We're in a time of real flux.” [28:15]

David explains how The New Yorker has embraced digital subscriptions to maintain profitability and relevance in an era dominated by platforms like Netflix and Paramount Plus.

The Bob Dylan Anecdote

One of the most engaging segments involves David’s attempt to feature Bob Dylan’s memoir in The New Yorker. Despite securing an exclusive excerpt, Dylan's insistence on a cover feature led to the piece being published elsewhere. David reflects:

“He’s a man of parts.” [33:15]

This story highlights the complexities and unpredictabilities in the editorial world, especially when dealing with iconic figures.

Balancing Business and Creativity

David candidly shares the struggle editors face in balancing the business aspects of publishing with the creative mission to produce compelling content:

“Editors spend a lot more time thinking about business than they probably, if they're being honest with themselves, would like to.” [28:15]

Despite these challenges, David remains committed to ensuring The New Yorker continues to be a beacon of quality journalism and storytelling.

Key Insights and Conclusions

• Authentic Spaces Foster Creativity: Stella Bugbee’s emphasis on creating open, community-driven environments proves essential for innovative content creation.

• Digital Integration is Imperative: Adam Moss’s strategic expansion into digital verticals underscores the necessity for traditional publications to adapt to the digital landscape to remain relevant and profitable.

• Security and Planning are Crucial for High-Stakes Journalism: Scott Dadich’s successful interview with Edward Snowden demonstrates the importance of meticulous preparation and security measures in modern journalism.

• Balancing Economics with Creativity is a Persistent Challenge: David Remnick’s experience at The New Yorker highlights the ongoing struggle to maintain financial viability without compromising editorial integrity.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Stella Bugbee: “My main goal was to create a space where the people working on that project could say whatever they wanted to say in the tone they wanted to say it in.” [08:11]

• Adam Moss: “Each experiment we did, trying to build out a sort of constellation really, of digital magazines, was interesting to me...” [15:02]

• Scott Dadich: “We sat and we waited and sure enough the phone rang and it was Ed himself.” [38:02]

• David Remnick: “The subscription model is facing challenges, too... We're in a time of real flux.” [28:15]

Conclusion

The "Best of 2024 with Editors" episode offers a rich tapestry of experiences and lessons from some of the leading minds in the magazine industry. From fostering creative environments and embracing digital transformation to navigating high-stakes interviews and balancing business with creativity, these editors provide invaluable insights into the evolving landscape of publishing. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a curious enthusiast, this episode serves as a compelling guide to understanding the intricate dance between creativity and commerce in the world of magazines.

Listen to the full episode and explore more interviews on Design Matters with Debbie Millman.