Bari Weiss, the editor-in-chief of CBS News, has announced a temporary hiatus for her popular podcast Honestly, citing the immense responsibilities of her new role at the network. The pause, described as lasting "for a few short months," comes amidst a backdrop of escalating controversies and declining morale within CBS News, as Weiss navigates her position following a high-profile appointment in October.
Emotional Announcement and Podcast Legacy
In a shortened episode released on Thursday, Weiss delivered an emotional message to her listeners, acknowledging that she was getting "mushy" about the decision. "If I sound mushy right now, it's because I love making this show, and I'm not done making it," she declared. She reassured fans that the break is not permanent, promising a return in the near future.
Weiss credited the podcast, which launched in May 2021 and has produced over 400 episodes, with serving as a platform to remind audiences of fundamental values that she believes have been overlooked in recent years. She emphasised the "serious thinking" delivered through the show, which is part of The Free Press, a centre-right Substack site she founded with family members.
Expanding Influence at CBS News
Weiss framed her move to CBS News as an opportunity to bring the values of Honestly and The Free Press into a broader arena. "It's a huge responsibility and it's an extraordinary opportunity to bring the values that drive this show and that drive The Free Press into a much bigger arena," she explained. This transition follows Paramount chief David Ellison's acquisition of The Free Press for $150 million, integrating it into CBS News while maintaining its separate entity status.
However, Weiss's tenure has been marked by significant turbulence. Network staff have reported plummeting morale, and she has faced backlash over editorial decisions, including the delayed airing of the "Inside CECOT" segment on 60 Minutes. Reports indicate that Weiss expressed frustration with correspondent Sharyn Alfonsi, who produced the segment, and there are rumors that Alfonsi and fellow correspondent Scott Pelley may be at risk of dismissal.
Internal Conflicts and Editorial Overhauls
The internal strife at CBS News extends beyond individual conflicts. Weiss has implemented more editorial oversight for 60 Minutes, now participating in Monday meetings with the show's executive producer, a departure from its traditionally autonomous operation. This move has sparked concerns among veterans about job security and editorial independence.
Additionally, Weiss's efforts to revamp CBS News programming have faced challenges. The reboot of CBS Evening News with anchor Tony Dokoupil has encountered technical mishaps, controversial pro-Trump segments, and generally soft ratings, aside from a temporary spike due to a competitor's preemption. Weiss is also reportedly considering replacing Face the Nation moderator Margaret Brennan, with sources suggesting she may look externally for a successor.
Media Reactions and Future Implications
CNN chief media analyst Brian Stelter noted that Weiss remains a focal point in media discussions, observing, "For the time being, Weiss is going to do a bit less talking." This pause in her podcasting activities coincides with her behind-the-scenes efforts to shape coverage and manage the network's direction, amid reports of her direct reporting to David Ellison, who is navigating Paramount's business strategies.
As Weiss steps back from podcasting temporarily, the media industry watches closely to see how her leadership will impact CBS News's future. The combination of internal dissent, editorial changes, and her ambitious vision sets the stage for a critical period in the network's history, with potential ramifications for its programming and staff stability.
