The Bridge with Peter Mansbridge Two Authors, Two Great Books - Encore
Sep 30, 2025
This installment features Brian Stewart, a former CBC foreign correspondent and author of 'On the Ground,' discussing his struggles with writing about painful memories and the moral injury he faced while reporting from conflict zones. He also reflects on the profound impact media can have on humanitarian crises. Joining him is Halina St. James, a former CBC field producer and first-time author of 'The Golden Daughter,' who shares her journey of uncovering her mother's wartime letters and the unexpected family secrets they revealed, highlighting her historical research efforts.
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Reluctant Memoirist Finally Writes
- Brian Stewart resisted writing a memoir for years despite colleagues urging him to tell his stories.
- He eventually accepted a publisher's offer and wrote On The Ground, sharing decades as a foreign correspondent.
Moral Injury From Witnessing Atrocities
- Brian recounts witnessing famine, shootings, and bombed apartment buildings that haunted him long after events ended.
- He developed moral injury and later sought treatment to recover from the long-term effects.
Big Stories Are Team Efforts
- Major international stories succeed because of a tight, skilled team and supportive headquarters.
- Stewart credits cameramen, producers and Toronto editors for making the Ethiopia coverage effective and sustained.
