In the realm of podcasting, interviews can traverse a spectrum of challenging to invigorating, and for Alex Cooper, her conversation with RuPaul ranked among the most formidable. The dynamic host of the “Call Her Daddy” podcast divulged that the moment was laden with pressure and anticipation. Cooper expressed her desire to impress RuPaul, whom she reveres not just as an icon but as an embodiment of resilience and creativity. The stakes were high; Cooper was acutely aware of the privilege of having such a legend on her platform and felt compelled to rise to the occasion.
This longing for approval resonated deeply within her, as she articulated, “I wanted so badly to have Ru love me.” The emotional weight of this interview was not solely about showcasing her skills but rather about honoring the legacy of her guest, a pioneer in both the entertainment industry and as a champion of the LGBTQ+ community.
Cooper highlighted the need for thorough preparation, explaining her intent to “stay toe-to-toe” with the iconic host. This preparation wasn’t merely about gathering facts or formulating questions; it involved creating an atmosphere where both she and RuPaul could share authentic narratives. “I really wanted to garner the respect,” she noted, showing the delicate balance that entertainers must achieve between professionalism and personal connection.
Their dialogue traversed intimate topics, including RuPaul’s familial challenges and past battles with addiction, ultimately culminating in a discussion about his relationship with husband Georges LeBar. This openness exemplifies the kind of candid atmosphere Cooper has cultivated, emphasizing the significance of creating safe spaces for guests to divulge their truths.
In a broader context, Cooper expressed her mission to ensure that every celebrity guest feels seen and heard—a stark contrast to her experiences on other shows. “It’s very dehumanizing,” she reflected on traditional interview formats that prioritize superficial engagement over authentic connection. Instead, “Call Her Daddy” aims to ensure that each guest feels genuinely valued, not merely as a figure to promote or dissect but as a person with a story worth telling.
She understands the dual responsibility she carries: fostering a connection with her guests while keeping her audience engaged and informed. This requires a level of empathy and charisma that makes the listener feel as if they are part of an intimate conversation rather than a broadcast.
Cooper’s journey began in 2018 when she introduced “Call Her Daddy” through Barstool Sports. Since then, she has managed to not only pivot to Spotify, securing a formidable $60 million deal, but also sign a jaw-dropping $125 million agreement with SiriusXM. These milestones underscore her prowess in evolving her brand while staying authentic to her roots and audience.
Ultimately, Cooper’s ability to amalgamate professionalism with personal touch defines her success. Each interview serves not just to entertain but to educate, making room for more profound societal conversations within the infotainment landscape. In doing so, she continues to challenge the norms of celebrity interviews, establishing a new benchmark in the podcasting arena.