Talks / Ideas / Philosophy

How to Catch a Story: Inside Investigative Journalism in the age of TikTok

Various venues across London

Thu 1 Oct · 19:00 · £20.25

90m · Talk

About this event

"How to Catch a Story: Inside Investigative Journalism in the age of TikTok " with Mimi Yates Summary: How does a story go from a stranger's DM to an undercover investigation, a newspaper front page and millions of views on TikTok? Investigative journalist Mimi Yates takes us behind the scenes of investigative reporting - from gaining the trust of strangers and going undercover to verifying extraordinary claims, navigating ethics and working out how to make people stop scrolling. Through real investigations into homelessness, sexual harassment, county lines and some of Britain's more unusual hidden worlds, this talk will reveal what actually happens before an investigation reaches your screen - and explore an increasingly complicated question: if anyone can publish to millions of people, is everyone a journalist? Bio: Mimi Yates is an investigative multimedia journalist specialising in stories hidden in plain sight and finding new ways to bring serious journalism to audiences online. Her reporting has taken her from going undercover on the London Underground to investigating children exploited by county lines gangs, with her work reaching millions of people across social media. Her investigation into homeless delivery drivers was shortlisted for a 2026 Orwell Prize. Venue: Big Penny 1 Priestley Way, London E17 6AL Event Running Time: (We recommend arriving at 6:30pm if you're eating, and 7pm if drinks only) Doors from 7pm Introduction: 7:25pm Lecture: 7:30pm Q&A: 8:10pm Finish: 8:30pm FAQs: What is Pints of Knowledge? Pints of Knowledge is a series of public talks where experts, researchers, and big thinkers share fascinating ideas all in the relaxed setting of a pub. We bring brilliant minds and curious audiences together over a pint, covering topics from science and politics to history, art, and beyond. What happens at Pints of Knowledge? At each Pints of Knowledge event, you’ll hear engaging talks (approx. 40 minutes) from expert speakers on fascinating topics — followed by an audience Q&A (approx. 20 minutes). The vibe is informal and social, set in a pub where you can grab a drink, meet interesting people, and enjoy big ideas in a relaxed setting. What if I don't drink alcohol ? No problem at all! Pints of Knowledge is all about the ideas and the community, not the drinks. You’re welcome to enjoy a soft drink, coffee, or whatever you prefer. The focus is on creating a relaxed, social atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable. Can I attend without a ticket? Tickets must be purchased online prior to the event. With our limited capacity at each venue we can't let people in without a ticket. There is occasionally the option to purchase a ticket on the door for our sold-out events, but we cannot guarantee this. Is there food available? Yes, there is usually the option to purchase food at our events - please see each venue's menu on their website. If you plan on eating at the venue, we recommend arriving as early as possible so the kitchen can get your order out before the talk starts. In the unlikely event the kitchen isn't open, there will typically be an option to order in food from elsewhere or bring your own food. Can I get my ticket refunded? We issue full ticket refunds 24 hours before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser. Can I get my ticket exchanged? We issue full ticket exchanges if you have requested 48 hours before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser . Is the event pet/baby friendly? Yes, we allow pets and babies to attend but reserve the right to request their removal if they are disruptive. Is the venue accessible? All of our venues are accessible, besides the following: The Old Queen's Head, The Landor, The Alma, and The Morpeth Arms.