10 American Presidents Podcast EP:4 – Powell – Micheal Goldwasser – How the shows are made
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Jul 25, 2015 
Colin Powell, a retired four-star general and former Secretary of State, shares captivating moments from his life, from his military career to his reflections on September 11 and the Iraq War. He discusses his surprising decision against a presidential run and emphasizes America’s diversity. Joining him is Michael Goldwasser, a producer passionate about podcast creation, who reveals insights about sound design and the genesis of this podcast series. Their conversation sheds light on the intricate process of storytelling in American history.
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Immigrant Roots Shaped Powell's Values
- Colin Powell recounts growing up in Harlem and the South Bronx as the son of Jamaican immigrant parents who emphasized education and not shaming the family.
- He describes a warm immigrant community, Jamaican cultural ties, and music shaping his youth.
ROTC To Career Army By Choice
- Powell explains joining ROTC at City College of New York and choosing a regular commission in the Army because he fell in love with soldiering.
- He notes the Army was progressive on race and that staying in promised a pension at 41, which persuaded his family.
From Combat Officer To Senior Advisor
- Powell describes service in Germany, Vietnam, and Korea, then transition to civilian roles in Washington including White House fellowship and National Security Advisor.
- He links those experiences to later selection as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff in 1989.