The final part of this episode touches on Michael Jabri-Pickett’s pivot from Editor-in-Chief to Freelancer, exploring the change in style and approach to work, with tips for those looking to make the transition.
(0:01) Editor-in-Chief, Gus Anderson: And finally, obviously, you worked at the KT as editor-in-chief, you’ve left now.
Former Editor-in-Chief and Political Commentator, Michael Jabri-Pickett: Well, not voluntarily.
Editor-in-Chief, Gus Anderson: Okay, well, you speak quite candidly about that.
Former Editor-in-Chief and Political Commentator, Michael Jabri-Pickett: Yes, absolutely.
Editor-in-Chief, Gus Anderson: Which I love, it’s great.
Obviously, you’re making the pivot, you were the Editor-in-Chief and now you’re a Political Commentator at Al-Arabiya and doing other things such as your own podcast, the MJP.
(0:25) For those out there, how do you make that pivot from being in such an established organisation as the leading force to then going at it by yourself?
Former Editor-in-Chief and Political Commentator, Michael Jabri-Pickett: I’m a strategy guy. It’s one of the problems that I had my previous job where leadership had zero strategy.
They would have what they called strategic goals, but no strategy.
Although I'm a fan of strategy, I didn’t have a strategy myself — I was going on instincts.
(1:06) I’ve been fortunate enough to be out here for a while. Al Arabiya is my seventh news organisation in the UAE. You build contacts over time.
I’d been on DXB Today, on my podcast, and I had people reaching out asking if I’d like to try something different.
(1:38) I really liked the idea, especially being in my late 50s, of doing something different, feeling nervous and excited again, learning new skills. I like stepping out of my comfort zone.
As a sports guy — before a big hockey game, I still get those nerves — that feeling of excitement before the puck drops.
(2:33) We shoot live, which adds a little pressure, but I enjoy that. People offered me the opportunity, and I’m giving it a shot.
I’m liking it, and hopefully I’ll keep getting better. I’m getting more comfortable in front of the camera.
(3:12) The tricky part is trying to lend insight without showing people you’re thinking hard while you’re talking.
You have to think fast, stay sharp. But I always want to come across as a journalist, not just a talking head or someone giving opinions. I’m enjoying it.
(3:51) So, I’ve made that pivot, and hopefully, I’ll continue with it.
Editor-in-Chief, Gus Anderson: We look forward to seeing you twice a week. It’s been a pleasure speaking with you.
Former Editor-in-Chief and Political Commentator, Michael Jabri-Pickett: Thank you — I appreciate you having me.
Stay Up to Date with the Previous Parts of this Four Part Podcast with Michael Jabri-Pickett!
Michael’s Podcast, Beyond the Skyline with MJP.
A Author’s Story to be Told (Part 3)
It’s All Change in North America, the Canadian Election (Part 2)
Journalism in the Gulf, Getting Started and Storytelling (Part 1)
