Logo

    Wait Wait DNC Dispatch #3

    enAugust 23, 2024
    What experiences did Peter and Emma share at the convention?
    How does the makeup artist describe NPR hosts' preferences?
    What notable figures did the speaker encounter unexpectedly?
    How do speakers feel about their relationships with supervisors?
    What humorous moment involved Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy?

    Podcast Summary

    • Media Row at DNCMedia Row at DNC is where radio hosts and journalists prepare for on-camera appearances, often requesting natural makeup looks to complement their radio voices.

      The Democratic National Convention in Chicago is a bustling hub of media activity. Peter and Emma shared their experiences of the early morning hustle and the various setups for TV studios and media row. Emma even had a chance encounter with a makeup artist contracted by NPR. The term "Media Row" may seem intimidating, but it's where radio hosts and journalists get ready for their on-camera appearances. When asked about the preferences of NPR hosts, the makeup artist revealed that they typically ask for natural looks to complement their radio voices. Despite the long hours and exhaustion, the energy and excitement of the convention keep everyone going.

    • Natural Beauty TrendThe trend towards natural beauty continues to grow, with individuals like Osmo Holland prioritizing comfort and personal preference, even in the public eye.

      Natural-looking makeup is in demand, as evidenced by requests from clients and the preferences of individuals like Osmo Holland. Osmo, who has experience with live broadcasts and sometimes wears heavier makeup for televised events, shared her morning routine when not on camera. Despite her occasional use of heavier makeup, she identifies as a "natural queen." This conversation highlights the growing trend towards natural beauty and the importance of catering to individual preferences. Additionally, the discussion revealed that even those in the public eye, like Osmo, prioritize personal comfort and natural appearance when not in the spotlight.

    • Conventions MakeupAt the RNC, heavier makeup was applied compared to the DNC. Radio journalists endure large amounts of powder for on-camera work, resulting in post-appearance cleanup. Makeup artist Hannah shared her personal sacrifices for her professional duties.

      While the Democratic National Convention (DNC) and the Republican National Convention (RNC) both require makeup artists for their on-camera talent, the vibe and amount of makeup used differ significantly. At the RNC, there was a noticeable trend towards heavier makeup application, with some individuals even resembling pageant contestants. In contrast, the DNC had a more "basic" feel with less makeup being worn. Another interesting revelation came from Peter, a radio journalist who occasionally does TV appearances. He shared that for his on-camera work, he has to endure having a large amount of powder applied to his head to prevent glare and protect the camera lens. This results in him having to scrub his entire head and ruin multiple towels after each appearance. Lastly, Hannah, the makeup artist who worked at both the DNC and RNC, noted that she sleeps on the couch to avoid waking her family during her early morning radio show duties and doesn't wear makeup herself, only applying it for her professional engagements. Overall, the behind-the-scenes insights into the conventions provided a unique perspective on the different approaches and experiences of those involved in the political spectacle.

    • Intimate Experiences at EventsAttending events where the best in their field are present can lead to unexpected and personal interactions, creating unique and memorable experiences.

      Attending events where the best in their field are present, such as track meets or political conventions, can create a unique and intimate experience. Unlike being a fan of sports like NBA or NFL where interactions with famous figures are unlikely, these events offer opportunities for unexpected encounters and a sense of community. These moments, whether it's sharing a cab with LeBron James or being pushed aside by AOC's security, create memories that feel personal and familial. The casual and unplanned nature of these interactions adds to the excitement and makes the experience all the more memorable.

    • Unexpected celebrity encountersUnexpected encounters with celebrities or notable figures can lead to humorous and memorable experiences. Don't be afraid to approach them and seize the opportunity.

      Unexpected encounters and moments of celebrity can be overwhelming, leading to humorous and memorable experiences. The speaker shared anecdotes about unexpectedly coming across notable figures like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Gretchen Whitmer, and Jasmine Crockett, and the confusion and awe that came with these encounters. A particularly memorable moment involved the speaker wondering if they had unknowingly shared a restroom with Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy. However, the speaker also learned to seize opportunities and approach these figures, as evidenced by their successful interaction with Representative Jasmine Crockett, who had gone viral for her response to insults from Marjorie Taylor Greene.

    • B6 momentWearing a host's merchandise during an interview can create iconic moments and change the course of events, even if the host misses a historic moment due to work commitments.

      The moment when a guest, referred to as B6, made a bold move by wearing the host's merchandise during an interview, became a memorable and iconic moment in their show. This incident, known as B6, is used to describe situations where things would have been different before that event. The host, who was supposed to attend a historic moment, missed it due to work commitments and jokingly considered "murdering" a colleague to ensure he wouldn't miss a potential surprise performance by Beyoncé. The lighthearted exchange showcases the unique dynamic between the hosts and their dedication to their work.

    • Workplace relationships dynamicsLove-hate relationships with supervisors, strong bonds with colleagues and the organization, camaraderie during challenging events, and looking forward to future collaborations.

      The complex dynamics of working relationships, even in a supportive environment like NPR. The speakers express a love-hate relationship with their immediate supervisors, but a strong bond with their colleagues and the organization as a whole. They reminisce about their experiences covering the Democratic National Convention together, sharing a sense of camaraderie and joy. Despite the challenges, they look forward to future collaborations and even jokingly plan to meet again in four years, potentially as married individuals. This conversation highlights the intricacies of workplace relationships and the importance of maintaining positive connections, even during trying times.

    Recent Episodes from Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!

    HTDE: Haircuts in Space, Tutus, and the Nasal Ranger

    HTDE: Haircuts in Space, Tutus, and the Nasal Ranger
    Wait, Wait...Don't Tell Me! producers Mike and Ian are back with their podcast How To Do Everything. On their first episode: how to cut your hair in space, how to clean your tutu, and how to tell if you smell.

    You can email your burning questions to howto@npr.org.

    How To Do Everything is available without sponsor messages for supporters of Wait Wait Don't Tell Me+, who also get bonus episodes of Wait Wait Don't Tell Me featuring exclusive games, behind-the-scenes content, and more. Sign up and support NPR at plus.npr.org.

    How To Do Everything is produced by Heena Srivastava. Engineering by Patrick Murray.

    Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    NPR Privacy Policy
    Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!
    enSeptember 04, 2024

    How To Do Everything is BACK!

    How To Do Everything is BACK!
    Peter Sagal's wife's favorite podcast is back. On each episode of How To Do Everything, underqualified hosts Mike Danforth and Ian Chillag find overqualified experts to answer all your life questions. How do you survive quicksand? How do you plan the perfect first date? How do you count all the hairs on your head? They can't help you. But they will find someone who can.

    You can email your burning questions to howto@npr.org.

    How To Do Everything is available without sponsor messages for supporters of Wait Wait Don't Tell Me+, who also get bonus episodes of Wait Wait Don't Tell Me featuring exclusive games, behind-the-scenes content, and more. Sign up and support NPR at plus.npr.org.

    Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    NPR Privacy Policy