Nicolle Wallace Opens Up About Motherhood, Trump and Her New Podcast (Exclusive)

Nicolle Wallace, the Emmy-nominated host of MSNBC’s Deadline: White House, is making waves with her new venture, a podcast titled The Best People. This initiative comes at a pivotal moment in American politics, following the 2024 election, which has reignited discussions about political engagement and public discourse. Wallace, now 53, believes that the aftermath of Donald Trump’s significant victory influences how we engage with news and politics.

In an exclusive interview, she explained the motivation behind her podcast: "After the reelection of Donald Trump, I approached my bosses with the idea of doing more. I recognized that not everyone is tuned into the news daily, and I wanted to connect with audiences through various mediums." This desire for broader communication is particularly crucial in today’s fragmented media landscape.

With The Best People, Wallace aims to create a space for “extended engagement,” focusing on relatable topics that resonate with everyday life. "We do not avoid the elephant in the room," she assures her listeners. The podcast focuses on discussing universal experiences that many families face—screen time for kids, sports injuries, and finding time for date nights. Wallace emphasizes that “when we separate politics from our real lives, we perpetuate division."

The blend of personal anecdotes and political discourse is what sets The Best People apart. "These are the things everyone can talk about," she asserts, aiming to foster understanding and healing through shared experiences. This philosophy is not just about politics; it’s about knitting together the rich tapestry of American life.

As she launches her new podcast, Wallace has lined up an impressive roster of guests, including Jason Bateman, Sarah Jessica Parker, Rachel Maddow, and Doc Rivers. This star-studded lineup speaks to her intention of appealing to a broad audience while delivering engaging conversations. The Best People joins an array of original MSNBC podcasts, contributing to the growing trend of political discourse blending with pop culture.

In her previous roles, Wallace has interviewed high-profile figures from Joe Biden to Nancy Pelosi. However, she believes her voice will thrive in this “vibrant” podcasting space. "I’m not the variable; it’s the collection of amazing people that agreed to talk to us," she notes. The focus lies on creating content that resonates with the audience, and she’s eager to evaluate success based on the feedback from her listeners. "If the people who come enjoy it, we have served our listeners well."

In terms of her workflow, Wallace maintains a rigorous routine, carrying over some of her pre-show rituals from Deadline: White House. “It involves a lot of caffeine,” she jokes, before mentioning her family dynamics as a significant part of her daily checks. With a toddler and a teenager at home, she ensures she connects with her husband, Michael Schmidt, and her kids before going live. “For a 13-year-old boy, sushi counts as a mini meal,” she laughs, illustrating the everyday challenges that many parents can relate to.

For Wallace, physical and mental health are essential components of her preparation. "I always make sure I’ve run before I sit down to talk to anybody because that clears my head and brain," she explains. This routine not only energizes her but also allows her to approach difficult topics with clarity.

Navigating the complex nature of news and politics while managing family life is no small feat. Wallace acknowledges the pressures of continuous news cycles but believes that finding joy in connections is vital. "I don’t think anyone decompresses anymore," she says, adding, "I think we’re learning how to live in our compressed state." This resilience is something many individuals and families can resonate with in today’s fast-paced world.

The Best People is set to debut on June 2, with new episodes released every Monday across platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Wallace’s commitment to engaging in honest conversations is evident, and the podcast format provides a unique opportunity for deeper dialogues about current issues and everyday life.

As Nicolle Wallace embarks on this new journey, her hope is that The Best People will serve not just as a platform for news discussions but as a conduit for meaningful connections in a distinctly divided time. Her approach integrates stories from both the political arena and personal life, fostering a sense of community among listeners. It’s an exciting time for Wallace, and audiences are eager to see how her experiences and insights will shape this new chapter in both her career and the ever-evolving landscape of American politics.

In conclusion, The Best People promises to be more than just a podcast; it seeks to bridge the gap between political discourse and everyday experiences, reminding us that at the core of every discussion lies the shared human experience. In a world that often feels polarized, Wallace’s mission to connect and engage with her audience through relatable content is something many of us can look forward to.

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