Design Matters with Debbie Millman: Best of Design Matters – David Remnick
Release Date: April 28, 2025
Introduction
In this standout episode of Design Matters with Debbie Millman, David Remnick, the esteemed editor of The New Yorker, delves into his illustrious career, personal anecdotes, and profound insights into the ever-evolving landscape of journalism and media. Originally aired in April 2024, this episode offers listeners a deep dive into Remnick’s journey from a passionate young reporter to the helm of one of the most influential magazines in the world.
Early Beginnings and Passion for Journalism
David Remnick reflects on his early days as a reporter, describing the world he observed with a blend of misery and promise. He reminisces, “[00:05] Part of what shaped me is when I was a young reporter, the world was a very promising. It's always filled with misery. We are half conscious crazy people doing the best we can and the worst we can all the time. But there was this moment of promise in the Middle East, in Eastern Europe, in Central Europe, in South America. Democratic promise. I'm not saying heaven on earth, but promise.”
Remnick’s passion for journalism was evident from a young age. He took pride in writing and editing the entire high school newspaper by himself, employing old-school layout techniques on his kitchen table. “[12:22] No. [12:23] Interview Segment: So you wrote and edited the entire paper by yourself. Is it true you made up different bylines so it wouldn't seem as if you were writing it on your own? [12:34] David Remnick: I still do.”
Academic Pursuits and Early Career
Despite academic challenges, Remnick's determination saw him through Princeton University, where he majored in Comparative Literature. He candidly shares his experience: “[21:43] David Remnick: I, I, to this day I don't understand it. If I had, if I presented the SAT scores that I did have, now there's no way.” His time at Princeton was marked by active involvement in journalism, co-founding the student newspaper Nassau Weekly and interning at prestigious publications like the Washington Post and Newsday.
Tenure at The Washington Post and Mentorship Under Ben Bradlee
Remnick’s decade-long stint at The Washington Post was transformative, especially his interactions with legendary editor Ben Bradlee. He describes Bradlee with a mix of admiration and apprehension: “[28:19] David Remnick: He was incredibly handsome in an old WASP sort of way... I was terrified of this guy, and I had almost no contact with him.” Despite limited direct interaction, Bradlee’s influence instilled in Remnick the importance of fearlessness in editorial work. “[29:09] David Remnick: Fearlessness in an editor is essential if we can be serious for a moment.”
Transition to The New Yorker and Navigating Industry Challenges
Taking the reins at The New Yorker during a financially precarious period, Remnick navigated the magazine through significant industry shifts. He candidly discusses the challenges posed by the digital revolution and changing advertising landscapes: “[42:49] David Remnick: The nature of advertising has changed and is completely and utterly dominated by Google and Facebook... The only other alternative that I know of at the moment is subscriptions.”
Remnick emphasizes the importance of adapting to new media formats, noting the launch and development of The New Yorker Radio Hour. “[47:11] David Remnick: I just think it's enormously fun. And I also think it reaches other people... They work a long time on their reporting. They're working on their third season, and they've been around for some years. These are serious reporters, and they were kindred souls.”
Personal Anecdotes and Reflections
Throughout the conversation, Remnick shares personal stories that highlight his resilience and commitment to journalism. One poignant moment recounts his attempt to secure an exclusive with Bob Dylan for The New Yorker: “[54:15] David Remnick: Bob wants a cover... I can't do it. They put him on the COVID and they ran this excerpt. And apparently, Bob Dylan survived the experience of not being published in the New Yorker.”
This anecdote underscores the complexities of balancing journalistic integrity with high-profile personalities. Remnick’s admiration for Dylan is palpable: “[50:16] David Remnick: I think there’s one thing that we need to... Bob Dylan has remained unmoved by and unimpressed by my hero worship.”
Insights on the Current Media Landscape and Politics
Remnick offers a sobering analysis of the current political climate and its impact on journalism’s credibility. He articulates his concerns about the rise of demagogues and the erosion of trust in news media: “[34:29] David Remnick: Donald Trump is not just an autocrat and a demagogue, he's also a very talented demagogue... It’s very hard for our writers and our readers to make sense of and understand is how this could possibly be.”
He stresses the role of The New Yorker in holding power accountable and fostering informed discourse: “[30:47] David Remnick: ...the New Yorker is many things. I hope it’s funny. I hope it has literary depth. But one thing it has to do is put pressure on power. It has to ask hard questions.”
Commitment to Quality and Future Vision
Looking ahead, Remnick is committed to maintaining The New Yorker’s legacy while embracing innovation. He shares his vision for the magazine’s future amidst ongoing industry changes: “[44:56] David Remnick: editors spend a lot more time thinking about business than they probably, if they're being honest with themselves, would like to... I want people in this room and their children to be reading the New Yorker. That is a lot better than the one that we have now in the future.”
He underscores the importance of balancing artistic integrity with economic viability, ensuring that The New Yorker remains a relevant and influential publication for generations to come.
Conclusion
David Remnick’s episode on Design Matters offers a compelling narrative of perseverance, adaptability, and unwavering dedication to the craft of journalism. From his humble beginnings to steering The New Yorker through turbulent times, Remnick exemplifies the spirit of creative resilience. His insights into the media landscape, coupled with heartfelt personal stories, provide listeners with a nuanced understanding of what it takes to sustain excellence in the ever-changing world of design and media.
Notable Quotes
- “[00:05] ...we are half conscious crazy people doing the best we can and the worst we can all the time.”
- “[29:09] Fearlessness in an editor is essential if we can be serious for a moment.”
- “[34:29] ...Donald Trump is not just an autocrat and a demagogue, he's also a very talented demagogue.”
- “[30:47] ...the New Yorker has to put pressure on power. It has to ask hard questions.”
- “[42:49] The nature of advertising has changed and is completely and utterly dominated by Google and Facebook.”
Closing Remarks
This episode stands as a testament to David Remnick’s influential role in shaping contemporary journalism. His candid reflections and profound insights make it a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of design, media, and creative storytelling.