
Jonathan Eig
Journalist and bestselling biographer known for deeply researched lives of cultural figures; author of King: A Life and former Wall Street Journal senior special writer.
Top 5 podcasts with Jonathan Eig
Ranked by the Snipd community

Nov 29, 2025 • 39min
Jonathan Eig, "King: A Life" (FSG, 2023)
Jonathan Eig, a bestselling biographer and former Wall Street Journal writer, delves into the complexities of Martin Luther King Jr. in his latest book. He discusses the importance of restoring King’s radical identity, often overshadowed by a simplified public image. Eig reveals King’s struggles with personal demons, the impact of his family background, and the challenges posed by the FBI. He also adds depth to Coretta Scott King’s role and highlights the nuanced relationship between King and Malcolm X. Eig emphasizes why King’s message remains urgent today.

Nov 27, 2025 • 39min
Jonathan Eig, "King: A Life" (FSG, 2023)
Jonathan Eig, a bestselling biographer and former Wall Street Journal writer, brings fresh insights into Martin Luther King Jr.'s life with his latest work. He discusses the sanitized public image of King, revealing the complexities of his personal struggles and family dynamics. Eig explores the dark history of FBI surveillance aimed at undermining King, and how these pressures impacted his mental health. He also emphasizes the urgency of King's messages on racial and economic justice, making them relevant to today's societal challenges.

Nov 27, 2025 • 39min
Jonathan Eig, "King: A Life" (FSG, 2023)
Jonathan Eig, a bestselling biographer known for his works on historical figures like Muhammad Ali, takes a deep dive into Martin Luther King Jr.'s life. He discusses the complexities of King's relationships, particularly with Coretta Scott King and his father. Eig uncovers the FBI's relentless campaign to discredit King and how it affected his mental health. He emphasizes King’s radical beliefs rooted in his faith and presents a nuanced view of his relationships with other Civil Rights leaders, including Malcolm X, making a case for why King's message is still urgent today.

Feb 14, 2025 • 60min
The Ancestral Plane
Jonathan Eig, a New York Times bestselling author known for his insightful biographies, shares his thoughts on Martin Luther King Jr. His exploration of King's complex legacy reveals the nuances of activism and the personal struggles he faced. They delve into the intersection of moral integrity and social justice, discussing the importance of authenticity in leadership. Eig also reflects on the impact of historical narratives on contemporary society, emphasizing the need to honor the radical truths behind iconic figures.

Nov 22, 2023 • 8min
Jonathan Eig's biography of MLK explores the activist's life and faith
Biographer Jonathan Eig discusses his book on MLK, exploring his upbringing, education, and his role in the Montgomery bus boycott. The podcast also covers MLK's inspiring journey as a leader, his unwavering convictions, and his spirituality in the face of scrutiny and surveillance.


