Journalist Joy-Ann Reid shares her journey from a 'nerdy' kid to cable TV's first Black woman prime-time anchor. She discusses her passion for journalism, meeting civil rights heroes, and her new book. The episode delves into her childhood influences, love for storytelling, and advocacy for social issues.
Joy-Ann Reid found her passion for journalism early, leading to a career as cable TV's first black woman prime-time anchor.
Reid's journey from a
nerdy
kid to acclaimed journalist highlights the importance of finding one's true calling and pursuing it.
The podcast sheds light on the pivotal role women played in preserving the legacies of civil rights leaders and advocating for equality.
Deep dives
Discovering a Passion for News and Information
At a young age, the podcast host realized her love for news and information, particularly sparked during the Iran hostage crisis in sixth grade. This event ignited her curiosity, leading to a deep interest in politics and the inner workings of American democracy. Growing up as a nerdy kid who enjoyed learning, she found joy in understanding complex topics and engaging with current events, setting the foundation for her future career.
Transitioning from Pre-Med to a Storytelling Major
Initially pursuing a pre-med track and gaining acceptance to various schools, the host's plans shifted after a personal tragedy prompted her to reevaluate her career path. Struggling with depression and a lack of passion for medicine, she took a year off and eventually pursued a major in visual and environmental studies, focusing on documentary film. Embracing her love for storytelling and narrative, she found a new direction that aligned with her creative interests.
Reflecting on the Legacy of Civil Rights Leaders
The podcast delves into the lives of civil rights leaders like Medgar Evers and their impact on history and society. Through interviews with individuals who knew the Evers family intimately, including childhood friends, a vivid picture emerges of their everyday lives and struggles in the face of racial injustice. Drawing parallels between historical activism and modern challenges, the host emphasizes the ongoing need for social progress and unity in creating a more inclusive society.
The Impact of Civil Rights Leaders' Ages on History
The podcast discusses the significance of the ages of civil rights leaders like Medgar Evers, Malcolm X, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at the time of their deaths. Highlighting the youth of these leaders - none of whom reached the age of 40 - the speaker underscores the profound impact and legacy they left behind at such young ages. The story delves into the experiences of the wives of these leaders, particularly focusing on Merlie Evers-Williams, shedding light on how their lives were affected by their husbands' activism and tragic deaths.
The Role of Women in Preserving Civil Rights Legacies
The podcast emphasizes the pivotal role women played in preserving the legacies of civil rights leaders in the face of historical challenges and societal norms. It examines how women like Coretta Scott King, Betty Shabazz, and Merlie Evers-Williams were instrumental in upholding and shaping the narratives of their spouses' activism post-assassination. By exploring the often overlooked contributions of women in the civil rights movement and their enduring efforts in advocating for equality, the episode highlights the interconnectedness of gender issues and civil rights struggles.
Journalist Joy-Ann Reid went from a "nerdy" kid who stayed past her bedtime to watch broadcast news to now fronting her own show!
The MSNBC Host and New York Times Bestselling author joins Sophia to discuss finding her passion for journalism, why she majored in documentary filmmaking at Harvard, becoming cable TV's first black woman prime-time anchor, and what it's really like behind the scenes of a busy newsroom.
Plus, Joy shares what it's been like meeting her civil rights heroes and talks about her new book, "Medgar and Myrlie: Medgar Evers and the Love Story That Awakened America."
