In the ever-evolving realm of podcasting, few names resonate as powerfully as Alex Cooper, particularly with her acclaimed podcast “Call Her Daddy.” Recently, Cooper opened up about her experience interviewing the iconic RuPaul, describing it as her “toughest interview” to date. This revelation, shared in a candid interview with *Marie Claire*, underscores the delicate balance that interviewers often must navigate—balancing their professional obligations with their own personal admiration for their guests.
During her discussion with RuPaul, Cooper expressed a distinct desire to impress the Drag Race maestro, admitting, “I wanted so badly to have Ru love me.” This personal connection to her guest added a layer of complexity to the conversation. She recognized her own privilege, understanding that she had to demonstrate why RuPaul should share his story with her. This level of self-awareness speaks to Cooper’s maturity as an interviewer, revealing her commitment to respect and understand her guests rather than merely perform a transactional dialogue.
The Preparation Process: Navigating Vulnerability and Resilience
Cooper’s dedication to creating a meaningful experience for her guests is commendable. She shared that she “worked so hard” to hold her own next to the veteran entertainer and recounted the necessity of garnering respect. Rather than simply treating the session as another interview, she approached it as a platform to showcase the complexities of RuPaul’s life, including his family dynamics, addiction struggles, and relationship with his husband, Georges LeBar. This emphasis on vulnerability creates not just a compelling interview, but fosters a deeper connection between the host, the guest, and the audience.
In her attempt to ensure a positive dialogue, Cooper reflected on her broader philosophy regarding celebrity interviews. She hopes to create a space where her guests feel seen and understood—a stark contrast to traditional media formats where stars often endure superficial interactions. Her recollection of other shows highlighted a frequent issue where hosts appeared disinterested or disconnected from their guests. This highlights the importance of genuine engagement in the art of interviewing, a lesson that Cooper embodies through her work.
Striving for Safety and Authenticity in Conversation
Cooper’s goal extends beyond engaging with her guests; she also strives to craft each episode with her audience in mind. She understands the responsibility that comes with her platform. “I care about the celebrity sitting across from me, but I also care about my audience,” she stated, emphasizing the dual role of an interviewer as both a confidant and a conduit of knowledge. Her approach reflects an admirable blend of empathy and diligence.
Having launched her podcast in 2018 with Barstool Sports, Cooper’s journey has been exceptional, culminating in impressive deals with Spotify and SiriusXM. However, her success is rooted not only in her ability to draw in high-profile guests but also in her commitment to cultivating authentic conversations. As Cooper continues to innovate in the podcast landscape, her experience with RuPaul serves as a potent reminder of the importance of carefully navigating the intricacies of admiration, respect, and audience engagement in every interaction.