“In first four months of the lockdown, I lost every single contract. I created my own work. If I would have sat there and waited, I don’t think anything would have happened.”
An experienced entrepreneur — founder of an online store and co-founder of an online marketplace — Isabelle Racicot is better known as an award-winning veteran TV and radio host.
Racicot once covered pinnacle events for Flash, from the Sundance and Cannes film festivals to the Grammy and People’s Choice Awards, interviewing celebrities such as Jeanne Moreau and Paul McCartney.
A staple of prime-time French-language television and radio, the perfectly bilingual host prefers shining a light on others. In 2020, Racicot stepped outside her comfort zone to make a personal film on the volatile issue of racism: Pour mes fils, mon silence est impossible (For my sons, my silence is impossible).
Career challenges
“The tragic death of George Floyd had me speaking to my sons about how to behave with police. I went to bed thinking, this is not a normal conversation. My documentary on racism was challenging because it’s so personal.”
Proudest moment
“I’m proud of working non-stop for 23 years in this business. I’m extremely grateful. It’s been a great ride.”
Pandemic hurdles and benefits
“In first four months of the lockdown, I lost every single contract. I proposed a French-language documentary about racism (Pour mes fils), a show for CBC Radio (a Black Lives Matter-themed version of our Seat at the Table podcast) and a year-end special. All three projects were accepted. I created my own work. If I would have sat there and waited, I don’t think anything would have happened.”
Concordia’s path to success
“Fellow Concordia students already working in TV suggested I audition. I didn’t get the job, but then they called me with a research job for Box Office at MusiquePlus.”
In the pipeline
“I’ll be co-hosting the drive home on RythmeFm in the fall and Le Dix de 2021, my review of the 10 most fascinating people of the year will be back on Radio-Canada. I will also be hosting the 2021 Governor General’s Performing Arts Awards on CBC and Radio-Canada.”
Career advice
“Believe in yourself. Don’t be afraid to knock on doors and put yourself out there. Many people turn you down and you can’t let that affect you.”
Giving back
“Charity galas host for many causes, and CIBC Run for the Cure spokesperson. My mom died of breast cancer when I was 12.”