Shooting the Messenger: the Case for Press Freedom. Episode 4: a conversation with Rachel Corp, CEO of ITN
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In this episode of "Shooting the Messenger," Hannah Storm hosts Rachel Corp, CEO of ITN, to explore the vital importance of eyewitness journalism, the challenges faced by journalists today, and the enduring need for press freedom. Rachel shares her extensive experience covering conflicts, discusses the impact of misinformation, the importance of mental health conversations in newsrooms, and emphasizes journalism's role in democracy.
Key Topics
- Rachel Corp's journey into journalism, from university radio to international reporting and then leadership of ITN.
- The core principles of eyewitness journalism: human connection, authenticity, and proximity
- The impact of misinformation, disinformation, and AI on journalistic integrity
- The importance of regional news and efforts to combat news deserts in the UK
- Challenges faced by women journalists: online harassment, career progression, and work-life balance
- Initiatives by Women in Journalism, including mentoring and AI upskilling programmes
- The significance of press regulation, impartiality, and accessible trustworthy information
- Strategies for managing mental health and wellbeing in high-pressure news environments
- The fight against attacks on journalism and the importance of defending press freedom
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction and episode overview 00:22 - Rachel Cork’s background and early career 01:23 - The importance of human stories and eyewitness reporting 02:57 - Covering conflicts: Bosnia, Gaza, and Iran 04:37 - Misinformation, disinformation, and the role of real-time eyewitness journalism 06:23 - Reporting from conflict zones: challenges and solutions 07:54 - Regional news deserts and efforts to reinstate local journalism 09:00 - The evolution and support of regional journalism in the UK 10:43 - Women in journalism: progress and ongoing challenges 12:08 - Online harassment faced by women journalists 13:39 - Mentoring, training, and embracing AI for future-proof journalism 15:23 - The importance of community and informal mentoring networks 16:47 - Experiences with online harassment and balancing motherhood with journalism 18:02 - Managing hostile responses and the importance of resilience 19:37 - Supporting mental health and wellbeing in high-stress newsrooms 22:26 - The value and purpose of a journalism career with impact 30:19 - Why press freedom and impartial regulation are essential for democracy 33:40 - Fighting attacks on journalists and defending free media 34:54 - Closing remarks and final thoughts on press responsibility
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