Should Robert Fife be Celebrated, or Should Reporters Retire Friendless and Despised?

Journalists and politicians are honouring Robert Fife, who retired after 48 years. Known for his big scoops, Fife leveraged anonymous sources to hold the powerful accountable. But Fife’s brand of “access journalism” also runs the risk of being used as a political tool. Jan Wong joins Jesse Brown to explain why journalists shouldn’t get too cozy with the politicians they cover.  Host: Jesse BrownCredits: James Nicholson (Producer), Kallan Lyons (Associate Producer and Fact Checking), imogen sayers (Mixing and Mastering), Tristan Capacchione (Senior Production Supervisor), Jesse Brown (Editor)Guest: Jan WongPhoto: Mark BlevisAdditional music by Audio NetworkFurther reading: Ottawa mayor declares June 11 ‘Robert Fife Day’ to honour veteran journalist - The Globe and Mail Robert Fife gives a candid account of some of the biggest stories and issues of his career - The Globe and MailRobert Fife — 2026 Hyman Solomon Award for Excellence in Public Policy Journalism Hear No Evil, Write No Lies | The Walrus  Change is coming to Winkler, ralliers say as southern Manitoba city hosts 1st Pride march | CBC News Weston family-backed digital publication Be Giant launches - The Globe and Mail  Sponsors:Fizz: Visit fizz.ca and activate a first plan using the referral code CAN40 to get 40$ off and 10GB of free data.Douglas:  Douglas is giving our listeners a FREE Sleep Bundle with each mattress purchase. Get the sheets, pillows, mattress and pillow protectors FREE with your Douglas purchase today.  Visit douglas.ca/canadaland to claim this offer.Shopify: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial today at Shopify.ca If you value this podcast, Support us! You’ll get premium access to all our shows ad free, including early releases and bonus content. You’ll also get our exclusive newsletter, discounts on merch at our store, tickets to our live and virtual events, and more than anything, you’ll be a part of the solution to Canada’s journalism crisis, you’ll be keeping our work free and accessible to everybody.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.