From Best To Worst: Martha Kearney On Memorable (and Not-So-Memorable) Interviews

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Post on May 01, 2025

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<h1>From Best to Worst: Martha Kearney on Memorable (and Not-So-Memorable) Interviews</h1>

Veteran broadcaster Martha Kearney has interviewed countless high-profile figures throughout her illustrious career. From politicians and celebrities to academics and activists, her incisive questioning and calm demeanor have become her trademark. But which interviews stand out – for better or worse – in her memory? In a recent exclusive interview, Kearney shared her reflections on some of the most memorable (and less-than-memorable) encounters of her career.

<h2>The Interviews That Defined a Career</h2>

Kearney, known for her work on BBC Radio 4's Today programme and other prominent broadcasts, revealed that some interviews transcend the typical question-and-answer format. She highlighted several key encounters that shaped her journalistic approach and left a lasting impression.

• The Unexpected Revelation: Kearney recounted an interview where a seemingly guarded guest unexpectedly opened up, sharing a deeply personal and revealing anecdote. This experience underscored the importance of building rapport and creating a safe space for interviewees to be honest and vulnerable. "It wasn't about the pre-planned questions," she explained, "but about fostering a genuine connection." This interview highlights the power of human connection in journalism, a key aspect often overlooked in discussions of interviewing techniques.

• The Masterclass in Evasion: On the other hand, Kearney also recalled an interview with a notoriously evasive politician. She described the challenge of navigating carefully worded answers and persistent attempts to avoid direct engagement with crucial questions. "This taught me the importance of meticulous preparation and the need for creative questioning to pierce through carefully crafted narratives," she stated. This experience serves as a valuable lesson in navigating difficult interviews and mastering the art of effective journalistic questioning. Analyzing such experiences helps aspiring journalists learn to anticipate and overcome challenges.

<h2>The Interviews That Didn't Quite Go to Plan</h2>

Not every interview goes smoothly, and Kearney admitted to having her share of less-than-ideal experiences.

• The Technical Glitch: She recounted an interview plagued by technical difficulties, leaving both her and the interviewee frustrated. "The focus shifted entirely from the substance of the conversation to the struggle with the technology," she lamented. This experience emphasizes the critical role of technical preparedness in broadcast journalism. A smooth technical setup is paramount for a successful interview.

• The Unexpected Interruption: Another challenging encounter involved an unexpected interruption, forcing an abrupt end to the interview. While frustrating at the time, Kearney highlighted the importance of maintaining professionalism and adaptability in unforeseen circumstances. The ability to navigate unplanned events effectively is crucial for broadcast journalists.

<h2>Lessons Learned: A Journalist's Reflection</h2>

Throughout her career, Martha Kearney has learned invaluable lessons about conducting impactful interviews. Her experiences highlight the necessity of preparation, empathy, and adaptability. She stressed the importance of:

• Thorough Research: Knowing your subject inside and out is paramount. This allows for informed questioning and the ability to anticipate potential responses.

• Active Listening: Truly hearing what the interviewee is saying is crucial for understanding their perspective and asking insightful follow-up questions.

• Maintaining Objectivity: While building rapport is important, maintaining journalistic integrity and avoiding bias remains a core tenet.

Martha Kearney's insights offer valuable lessons for aspiring and seasoned journalists alike. Her candid reflections demonstrate that the best interviews are not just about asking the right questions but also about building connections, navigating challenges, and ultimately, telling compelling stories. Her career serves as a testament to the enduring power of insightful interviewing in the world of broadcast journalism.