In an insightful revelation, Alex Cooper, host of the acclaimed podcast “Call Her Daddy,” disclosed that her interview with RuPaul marked a significant challenge. This encounter, according to Cooper, was not just another episode—it was a moment she approached with considerable intensity and aspiration. Describing RuPaul as her “absolute queen,” she felt a profound desire to earn his admiration. This emotional honesty underlines the unique pressures faced by interviewers, particularly when they hold their subjects in high esteem.
Cooper’s admission of wanting RuPaul’s approval reflects a broader dynamic in celebrity interviews where the interviewer can sometimes feel overshadowed. The desire to impress can lead to a nervous energy that may either hinder the conversation or drive it to new heights. For Cooper, the challenge was amplified by her awareness of her own privilege, which she felt necessitated a deeper level of preparation and respect. She shared that the interview was tough because of this desire to impress and the need to provide RuPaul with an experience that felt engaging and respectful.
One of the core tenets of effective interviewing is the ability to create a comfortable and open environment for the guest. Cooper emphasized her dedication to not only garnering respect from her high-profile guests but also ensuring they feel safe during their time on her platform. This approach is pivotal; she seeks to offer a stark contrast to traditional interview styles that can often seem mechanical and detached. Her commitment to making celebrities feel seen, heard, and valued speaks volumes about her interview philosophy.
In her discussion with RuPaul, topics ranged from personal struggles with addiction to the complexities of relationships and fame. By tackling such intimate subjects, Cooper demonstrated an understanding that modern listeners crave authenticity. She wants her audience to learn from the vulnerabilities shared by guests like RuPaul. This creates a two-way street where both the listener and the guest benefit from the conversation, thus enriching the listening experience.
Cooper’s journey in the podcasting landscape highlights her entrepreneurial spirit and desire for innovation. After launching “Call Her Daddy” in 2018 with Barstool Sports, her subsequent departure for a lucrative deal with Spotify illustrates her understanding of market dynamics and personal branding. The staggering $125 million deal with SiriusXM in 2024 is a testament to her growth and vision in the industry. Each interview, particularly the notable one with RuPaul, is carefully curated to not only entertain but educate her audience.
For Cooper, the balance between catering to celebrity needs while fulfilling audience expectations is vital. She portrays a deep consideration for all parties involved, continuously striving to elevate the conversation beyond mere celebrity gossip to a platform for enlightenment. This approach positions her podcast as one that fosters connection and understanding, paving the way for a new era of media consumption.
In sum, Alex Cooper’s journey as a podcast host serves as a compelling case study in the art of interviewing. Her experience with RuPaul exemplifies not just the challenges faced by those in the limelight but also the responsibility interviewers have to engage sincerely and thoughtfully with their guests.