SmartLess Podcast Episode Summary: "Graydon Carter"
Podcast Information:
- Title: SmartLess
- Hosts: Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, Will Arnett
- Guest: Graydon Carter
- Release Date: July 14, 2025
1. Introduction to Graydon Carter
The episode kicks off with the hosts humorously introducing Graydon Carter, a stalwart in the media industry, known for his influential role in shaping modern journalism and pop culture through his work with magazines like Spy and Vanity Fair.
Notable Quote:
- Jason Bateman [06:03]: “He happens to be my own Graydon Carter.”
2. Graydon Carter’s Career Trajectory
Graydon shares insights into his illustrious career, starting with founding the Canadian Review at the young age of 23 in 1963. He transitioned to prominent roles at Time magazine and co-founded the edgy and influential Spy Magazine in 1986.
Notable Quotes:
- Jason Bateman [06:20]: “How old were you when you founded the Canadian Review? What? That takes a lot of... I was gonna say guts, but it takes a lot of chutzpah.”
- Sean Hayes [07:30]: “Working at Time magazine with all this great talent was a remarkable period.”
3. The Golden Age of Magazines and Their Decline
Graydon reflects on the "golden age" of magazines during the 1990s, emphasizing the high quality and competitiveness that defined the era. He attributes the decline of print media to the financial crash of 2008 and the industry's slow adaptation to digital transformation.
Notable Quotes:
- Graydon Carter [20:30]: “Every magazine was good in the 1990s. They were just extraordinary.”
- Sean Hayes [36:07]: “Magazines companies were late to transfer their look to an electronic version.”
4. Transition to Airmail: Innovating Magazine Consumption
Graydon discusses his latest venture, Airmail, an innovative digital publication designed to cater to modern readers by delivering curated, compelling stories directly to their inboxes. Unlike traditional magazines, Airmail focuses on high-quality content without the intrusive advertising, aligning with contemporary consumption habits.
Notable Quotes:
- Graydon Carter [38:03]: “Airmail is an email with five stories you can click on if you’re interested.”
- Jason Bateman [38:50]: “It doesn't have a selling element that people have grown an allergy to.”
5. Cultural Shifts and the Impact of Social Media
The conversation delves into the profound impact social media has had on culture and media consumption. The hosts and Graydon debate whether this influence is detrimental or if a backlash will lead to a more balanced media landscape in the future.
Notable Quotes:
- Sean Hayes [50:15]: “It's a correction. The correction is now you share everything.”
- Will Arnett [50:19]: “We've overshared our lives in such a massive way.”
6. America’s Soft Power Through Culture
Graydon proposes that America’s cultural exports, such as television shows and social media platforms, serve as powerful tools of soft power, potentially more effective than traditional means like the military-industrial complex. He muses on how American media can shape global perceptions and influence behavior.
Notable Quotes:
- Jason Bateman [28:14]: “If we were really smart about wanting to pedal influence around the world... we'd pump in Netflix and Amazon Prime.”
- Sean Hayes [29:14]: “It's an element of soft power, and we've given up all our soft power in the last three months.”
7. The Future of Reading and Magazine Influence
Discussions pivot to the future of reading in a digital age. Graydon shares his thoughts on how younger generations are slowly rediscovering the joy of reading, supported by tools like audiobooks, and how niche, high-quality magazines are likely to thrive similarly to the resurgence of vinyl records.
Notable Quotes:
- Graydon Carter [34:08]: “Airtime presents stories that allow readers to choose what interests them without being overwhelmed.”
- Sean Hayes [33:42]: “Young people will come to love magazines the way they love vinyl.”
8. Legacy and Personal Insights
Towards the end of the episode, Graydon contemplates his legacy, expressing pride in his contributions to journalism and his hope that his work continues to inspire meaningful cultural conversations. The hosts share their admiration and discuss the personal impact Graydon’s work has had on shaping media standards.
Notable Quotes:
- Sean Hayes [60:36]: “I am very proud of my children. They’re truly good humans and funny and well-read.”
- Graydon Carter [55:32]: “I love it because it's a perfect juxtaposition between influence and sophistication.”
Conclusion
The episode wraps up with heartfelt appreciation from the hosts towards Graydon Carter, celebrating his enduring influence in media and culture. They encourage listeners to explore his new book, "When the Going Was Good," emphasizing its relevance in understanding cultural shifts.
Notable Quote:
- Jason Bateman [61:10]: “We wish you nothing but continued success. Thank you so much.”
Key Themes:
- Media Evolution: From print to digital, the adaptability required for survival.
- Cultural Influence: The role of media as a tool for shaping societal norms and values.
- Legacy of Journalism: The lasting impact of thoughtful, incisive reporting on culture and society.
- Adaptation to Modern Consumption: Innovations like Airmail catering to changing reader habits.
Conclusion: This episode of SmartLess provides an in-depth exploration of Graydon Carter’s pivotal role in modern journalism and his perspectives on the evolving media landscape. Through engaging dialogue and insightful reflections, listeners gain a comprehensive understanding of the past, present, and future of media and its intersection with culture.