A true pioneer and trailblazer, Susan Stamberg, has left an indelible mark on the world of broadcasting. At the age of 87, she passed away, leaving behind a legacy that reshaped the landscape of national news. But here's where it gets intriguing: she was not just another broadcaster; she was the first woman to host a national news program, a feat that challenges traditional norms and opens up a world of possibilities.
Stamberg's journey began in the early 1970s, when National Public Radio (NPR) was still in its infancy. She joined the network, becoming one of the 'founding mothers' of NPR, a title she proudly claimed. During her illustrious career, she interviewed an array of individuals, from renowned politicians and artists to the unsung heroes working behind the scenes. Her ability to connect with people, regardless of their fame or position, was remarkable.
In an oral history interview, Stamberg revealed a fascinating insight. When she became the host of 'All Things Considered' in 1972, she had no female role models to emulate. 'The only ones on were men,' she said. So, she did what felt natural - she imitated them, lowering her voice to sound authoritative. But it was a short-lived act; her program manager encouraged her to be herself, and that's when the magic happened.
'We made a new sound with radio,' she said, referring to the relaxed and natural delivery that became her signature. Her colleague, Jack Mitchell, described her as having an 'obvious New York accent,' which added to her unique charm.
'All Things Considered' faced daily challenges, with only five reporters to fill a 90-minute program. Yet, Stamberg's creativity and determination shone through, and she coined the term 'founding mother' to celebrate herself and three other women who launched NPR. 'I got tired of hearing about Founding Fathers,' she explained. 'We were obviously Founding Mothers.'
Stamberg hosted 'All Things Considered' for an impressive 14 years, and her impact continued to grow. She went on to host 'Weekend Edition Sunday,' where she introduced the Sunday puzzle feature with Will Shortz, now the crossword editor of the New York Times. Shortz described her vision for the show as a radio equivalent of a Sunday newspaper, offering news, culture, sports, and a puzzle - a truly innovative concept.
Her career evolved, and she became a cultural correspondent for 'Morning Edition' and 'Weekend Edition Saturday.' Even in retirement, her influence remained. In 1979, she hosted a historic radio call-in program with President Jimmy Carter from the Oval Office, managing the unfiltered questions from listeners. It was a bold move, and a testament to her skill and presence.
Stamberg's achievements were recognized with her induction into the National Radio Hall of Fame, where she was celebrated for her conversational style, intelligence, and talent for uncovering interesting stories. She interviewed iconic figures like Nancy Reagan, Annie Leibovitz, Rosa Parks, and James Baldwin, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
Her impact extended beyond broadcasting; in 2020, she received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Stamberg was born Susan Levitt in Newark, New Jersey, but grew up in Manhattan, and it was in Cambridge, Massachusetts, that she met her husband, Louis Stamberg. She is survived by her son, Josh Stamberg, and her granddaughters, Vivian and Lena, who carry on her legacy.
As we reflect on Susan Stamberg's life and career, we are reminded of the power of breaking barriers and the impact one individual can have. Her story inspires us to challenge norms, embrace our unique voices, and leave a lasting legacy. So, what do you think? Is Stamberg's impact on broadcasting an inspiring tale of progress, or does it highlight the slow pace of change in the industry? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
