We welcome to the show independent journalist Hollie McKay.

In this interview, Hollie discusses her diverse career, starting from her beginnings in the U.S. after studying in New York, to her time at Fox News, and her eventual shift to independent journalism after becoming disillusioned with the “clickbait factory” her work environment had become (her words ha ha).

Hollie shares her experiences reporting from global hotspots such as Afghanistan, Ukraine, and Sudan, emphasizing the challenges and importance of covering peoples around the world that otherwise are not given the time of day by the Gatekeepers of Polite Society aka “mainstream” media.

Together we explore the hardships of journalism, the need for a conscientious approach to journalism (or whatever work we are engaged in,) and the essential need for authentic, on-the-ground reporting on matters that affect the quality of life in the world’s most neglected regions.

Hollie also highlights the impact of her work on her personal life and the valuable lessons she's aiming to pass on to her 14-month old daughter.

We oftentimes ask ourselves, “What can I do?” when we hear of suffering around the world.

Supporting Hollie’s work is a great way to help people who are truly in need.

Hollie is a person who genuinely desires to improve the world through her work, and has shown tremendous Vojdaan, not to mention personal sacrifice, with her career choices.

Subscribe to Hollie’s free newsletter, and also consider supporting her work financially. This enables people who otherwise fall through the cracks from mainstream news reporting to get the attention they deserve, even if it’s a tiny fraction of the population.

A little Vojdaan goes a long way!

Episode highlights:

00:39 Hollie's Background and Career Beginnings

02:42 The Evolution of Digital Journalism

05:19 Hollie's Unexpected Path to Journalism

09:26 The Universal Language of Music and Soccer

14:29 Challenges in Mainstream Media

19:17 Transition to Independent Journalism

20:57 Experiencing the Fall of Kabul

22:33 Challenges of Freelance Journalism

25:10 Building a Niche in Journalism

31:28 The Reality of War-Torn Regions

37:33 Human Resilience Amidst Hardship

41:16 Supporting Independent Journalism

44:12 Parenting and Professional Life

46:47 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Resources Mentioned:

Dispatches with Hollie McKay

Today we conclude our journey through James Allen’s short but powerful book, As a Man Thinketh.

“Where there is no vision, the people perish,” says the old proverb.

When things get tough, and obstacles appear insurmountable, it is our vision of the successful outcome that keeps us on the right path.

That and disciplined thinking, consciously setting aside negativity and focusing on the things that are worthy of our attention.

The entire audiobook is available uninterrupted if you choose to upgrade to a paid subscription.

We continue through James Allen’s classic book, As a Man Thinketh. Today’s excerpt focuses on the detrimental effects of aimlessness and the necessity of having a central purpose in life.

Strength of character and successful achievements are byproducts of focused and right thinking. The concept that individual thoughts shape one's achievements and failures forms a critical theme, promoting the development of self-control, resolution, and purity for spiritual and material success.

Much needed wisdom in this modern age if you ask me!

The entire audiobook is available uninterrupted if you choose to upgrade to a paid subscription.