Savannah Guthrie has been a mainstay on Today for over a decade, bringing viewers the latest news, in-depth interviews, and exclusive stories. 

However, despite her impressive tenure, there are still aspects of the job that she finds challenging—even after years in the industry.

Navigating the Pressure of High-Stakes Interviews

Guthrie, who joined the morning show in 2012 following Ann Curry’s departure, 

has admitted that while she has become more comfortable in her role, certain interviews still make her nervous. 

She recently opened up about the challenges she faces, particularly when it comes to confrontational interviews.

In a candid conversation, the Today host revealed that she still feels anxious when interviewing high-profile figures who might evade tough questions. 

A recent example was her interview with Microsoft co-founder and billionaire Bill Gates, where she had to ensure she made the most of the limited time she had with him.

“Any interview where I feel like they want to dodge [a question], that’s anxiety-producing,” Guthrie admitted. “I find myself in these confrontational moments a fair bit, especially with politicians.”

While she has conducted numerous interviews over the years, including conversations with world leaders and public figures, she explained that direct confrontation is something she still struggles with.

“I myself am quite nonconfrontational. I don’t like it at all,” she shared. “But, in that moment, the job is more important. I’m here. I’m supposed to get the answer.”

Balancing Professionalism with Personal Discomfort

Despite her personal discomfort with confrontation, Guthrie has built a reputation for her ability to press guests for clear answers while maintaining composure. Her experience as a journalist has helped her navigate these moments, but they remain one of the most difficult aspects of her job.

Guthrie’s background includes serving as a White House correspondent between 2008 and 2011, covering major political events, including the State of the Union and presidential elections. While political interviews can be some of the most intense, she recognizes that these moments are an essential part of journalism.

“There’s no kid who went to journalism school who doesn’t aspire to that and get that rush,” she said.

One of Guthrie’s most well-known interviews took place in 2020 when she moderated a town hall with then-President Donald Trump. She pressed him on his COVID-19 diagnosis and his promotion of conspiracy theories about masks and safety protocols. At one point, after challenging his comments, she remarked, “You’re the President, you’re not like someone’s crazy uncle.” The moment was widely discussed and demonstrated her ability to balance firm questioning with professionalism.

Finding Strength in Storytelling

Beyond hard-hitting interviews, Guthrie has also found a passion for storytelling in a different way—through children’s literature. She has recently been promoting her new book, Mostly What God Does is Love You, the follow-up to Mostly What God Does. Her books focus on faith and love, which are deeply personal topics for her.

As she balances her career in journalism with her work as an author and mother, Guthrie continues to navigate the challenges that come with being in the public eye. While confrontational interviews may never be her favorite part of the job, she remains committed to delivering the news with integrity.

Even after more than a decade on Today, she is still evolving as a journalist. Whether she is questioning world leaders, moderating debates, or sharing heartwarming stories, Guthrie proves that even the toughest parts of the job won’t keep her from doing what she does best—informing and engaging her audience.

Follow us to see more useful information, as well as to give us more motivation to update more useful information for you.