A reporter is only as good as his or her sources; that’s the difference between press conferences and independent investigation. Honesty, delineating lines clearly and asking for permission for what you want to reveal publicly are essential to cultivating sources. I never broadcast a sensitive story until I let all sources know so they could protect themselves from vengeful or autocratic leaders. As you build your sources and the sophistication of your reporting, you build public trust. Over time, you and your sources learn each other’s values, and you may even fight the battles of integrity
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