How MSNBC’s Chris Hayes Pulled Himself Out of ‘Fight-or-Flight Mode’ After 10 Years on Primetime (Exclusive)
In a recent enlightening interview with PEOPLE, Chris Hayes, host of MSNBC’s “All In with Chris Hayes,” opened up about his transformative journey over the last decade in the realm of primetime journalism. He candidly discussed the upheaval and unpredictability that has defined modern news reporting, particularly during significant moments like the Trump presidency, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the January 6 Capitol riot. Hayes humorously noted that after a decade of covering such monumental events, he has grown accustomed to the turbulence, rarely finding anything shocking anymore.
The Evolution of a Primetime Host
Chris Hayes began his television career on “The Rachel Maddow Show,” where he initially appeared as a guest. His passion and talent for journalism quickly propelled him to host his own weekend program, eventually leading to his transition into the high-stakes world of primetime broadcasting. However, as he settled into this demanding role, he experienced considerable pressures that often left him feeling trapped in a state of “fight-or-flight.”
Initially, this pressure manifested itself in various forms: sleepless nights, constant vigilance, and an overwhelming sense of responsibility to deliver accurate and timely news. The demands of the industry, coupled with the intense scrutiny that comes with a high-profile position, made for a challenging environment. However, Hayes recognized the toll it was taking on his mental health and made a deliberate decision to implement changes in his life.
Prioritizing Mental Well-Being
As Hayes navigated the chaos of his career, he began finding ways to better manage his stress levels. He emphasized the crucial role of prioritizing mental health, actively incorporating practices that promote wellness into his daily routine. Key to this shift has been the importance of getting sufficient sleep, engaging in regular exercise, and ensuring quality time with family, especially during the unprecedented challenges brought on by the pandemic.
Through these changes, Hayes has experienced a newfound appreciation for home life. More time with his children has led to enjoyable family traditions, such as cooking homemade pasta—a skill he honed significantly during lockdown. This personal focus has allowed him to reclaim some balance in his life, countering the relentless pace of news cycles.
Reflections on Journalism’s Challenges
Despite the evolving pressures of journalism, Chris Hayes has not lost his passion for delivering news. In fact, he finds the intellectual challenges of navigating complex stories invigorating. Reflecting on his career, he recalls defining moments like the chaotic election night in 2016, where emotions ran high and stakes were even higher. Additionally, he shares eerie memories of reporting in a nearly deserted Manhattan during the darker days of the pandemic, where the city’s energy felt completely transformed.
For Hayes, the opportunity to distill intricate information and present it to the public remains a vital aspect of his role as a journalist. He thrives on the dialogue it fosters with his audience and values engagement in a meaningful way. As he prepares to take his show on the road for live events, he expresses enthusiasm for the chance to connect with viewers face-to-face and foster discussions that matter.
Ultimately, Chris Hayes embodies a rare combination of relentless passion for journalism and the resilience needed to navigate its challenges. By prioritizing his well-being while staying committed to his craft, he ensures that he remains an effective communicator in a rapidly changing news landscape. For those interested in the interplay between mental wellness and journalism, his story serves as an inspiring testament to the balance one can achieve amidst the chaos of modern media.
