Oct 28 2024 55 mins
About the Show:
"When you can collaborate with a wonderful person and have fun doing it, it makes the process a lot more fun, but also it makes the end product better."
- Rob Ruck
About the Guests:
Liann Tsoukas and Rob Ruck: Liann Tsoukas is a researcher and author who has co-authored the book Mal Goode: Reporting the Life and Work of a Black Broadcast Trailblazer. Dr. Rob Ruck is a historian and author known for his extensive work on sports history, including his book on the Polynesian culture in football. Both Rob and Liann are associated with the University of Pittsburgh, the alma mater of Mal Goode, and have collaborated on bringing his story to light through their scholarly work.
Episode Summary:
In this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast, host Randy Wilburn embarks on a deeply personal journey, exploring the life and legacy of his grandfather, Mal Goode, alongside authors Liann Tsoukas and Rob Ruck. As the pioneering first Black network newscaster with ABC News in 1962, Mal Goode broke significant barriers in broadcast journalism. This episode delves into the painstaking process behind the creation of a new book titled Mal Goode: Reporting the Life and Work of a Black Broadcast Trailblazer, shedding light on his profound impact on journalism and civil rights.
Drawing from expansive family archives and interviews, Liann and Rob share their insights into Mal Goode's life, emphasizing his remarkable transition at age 54 into a groundbreaking role at ABC, an experience analogous to the tectonic social shifts taking place in America during the civil rights movement. They highlight the often-overlooked stories of collaboration and mentorship among civil rights pioneers and African American icons. Through rich personal anecdotes and historical context, they frame Goode’s role not just as a pathbreaker in media but also as a mentor to African American athletes and figures like Jackie Robinson. His story becomes a testament to resilience, leadership, and progress, providing a blueprint for understanding and overcoming contemporary societal challenges.
Key Takeaways:
- Mal Goode’s Career Shift: At 54, Mal Goode transitioned to a career in network news, becoming the first Black newscaster at ABC, which was a groundbreaking achievement during the tumultuous civil rights era.
- Historical Context: The book encapsulates the intersection of Goode's life with pivotal civil rights moments, illustrating his contributions to both journalism and the African American community.
- Collaborative Biography: The episode uncovers the authors’ extensive research journey, revealing untold stories and personal insights from Goode’s family and contemporaries.
- Cultural Impact: Goode was a mentor to many, influencing figures like Jackie Robinson and impacting generations through his civil rights advocacy and work in media.
- Legacy and Influence: The podcast underscores the powerful legacy of Mal Goode, demonstrating how his principles and life lessons continue to inspire and educate.
All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast.
Important Links and Mentions on the Show*
Mal Goode Reporting: The Life and Work of a Black Broadcast Trailblazer - Order on Amazon
Website University of Pittsburgh Press
University of Pittsburgh Press on Instagram
This episode is sponsored by*
Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"
Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!"
*Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.
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Mentioned in this episode:
IANWA - Mal Goode Intro
Check out the biography of my Grandfather, "Mal Goode Reporting: The Life and Work of a Black Broadcast Trailblaze"
NWA Council Commercials Skills Training (revised)