Julia Gets Wise with Nina Totenberg
Wiser Than Me with Julia Louis-Dreyfus
Deep Dive
Why did Nina Totenberg feel the need to prove herself as a journalist?
Nina felt the need to prove herself due to the pervasive sense of being a 'fraud' that many women experience in professional settings. This feeling persisted until her fifties, driven by the constant pressure to demonstrate her competence and worth in a male-dominated field.
How did Nina Totenberg manage her temper in professional settings?
Nina learned to manage her temper by recognizing the physical and emotional toll of losing it. She adopted the strategy of walking away when feeling the urge to explode, which helped her avoid saying things she would later regret.
What was Nina Totenberg's approach to covering the Supreme Court?
Nina's approach involved maintaining a professional distance and not engaging in personal relationships that could compromise her objectivity. She also cultivated relationships with retired justices to gain historical insights without influencing current court dynamics.
How did Nina Totenberg handle the backlash from her Anita Hill story?
Nina handled the backlash by staying true to her journalistic integrity, refusing to reveal her sources, and relying on her experience and support from colleagues and family to navigate the intense public and political scrutiny.
What advice would Nina Totenberg give to her younger self?
Nina would advise her younger self to calm down and not be so pushy, trusting that she would succeed. She would also encourage herself to embrace a more confident self-image, acknowledging her own attractiveness and accomplishments.
How does Nina Totenberg view the current state of the judicial system?
Nina views the current judicial system with concern, particularly the lack of a centrist balance on the Supreme Court. She believes the court's shift towards extreme conservatism is dangerous and reflects her own political views that a balanced center is essential for a healthy democracy.
What does Nina Totenberg consider the best part of being her age?
Nina considers the wisdom and experience gained over decades as the best part of being her age. However, she also acknowledges the realization that life is finite and the challenges that come with aging, such as health scares and the need for physical therapy.
How did Nina Totenberg's friendship with Ruth Bader Ginsburg evolve?
Nina's friendship with Ruth Bader Ginsburg evolved over decades, rooted in their shared experiences as accomplished women striving for recognition in male-dominated fields. They bonded over their mutual struggle to break through professional barriers and their shared ambition.
- Nina started her journalism career at the Boston Record-American.
- She attempted an undercover investigation into contraception access but was stopped by her editor.
- Nina reflects on the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated field.
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