We are very excited to introduce our second guest to the Media Unscripted podcast, because Katie Vanneck Smith is a true pioneer in publishing.

Katie launched the UK’s first ever news paywall at the Times and then made her way to the other side of the pond, to work as President of Dow Jones. During her time there she helped grow The Wall Street Journal subscriber base to 3m  readers, which was the largest number in its history.

Katie clearly loves a challenge because she left this high powered, high paid, high reward job in new York, for a start up in the UK. And in 2019 she launched Tortoise Media, with James Harding and Matthew Barzun.

Tortoise is on a mission to slow news down. It’s not about breaking news, it’s about what’s driving the news. And as with all things involving Katie, it is about sustaining the future of journalism.

To all her ventures Katie brings an incredible energy, creativity, positivity and tenacity, which is why she was names pioneer of the year at the 2016 British Media awards.

Katie is also great fun, which is something often lacking in the commercial side of media, and refreshingly open and honest, so she gives a great interview. Katie talks about:

• The lightbulb moment when she realised she could make money out of news
• Her passion for the industry and finding a sustainable business model 
• What's driven her during her 25-year career 
• Why media brands need to work together to protect their future – and realise who the real competition is
• The current disruptions in the industry – and new opportunties
• How and why Tortoise Media is making news accessible for all 
• Why digital news still can't compete with print medi
• The importance of "proper partnerships and respect" between the editorial team and commercial leaders
• What she is most proud of achieving

We really enjoyed speaking to her and we hope you enjoy listening to this podcast. If you did, please don't forget to like and subscribe!