Don Lemon spent three decades on local and national TV – a trusted voice after the Sandy Hook massacre, in war-torn Eastern Europe, and during the riots of 2020. Anchoring Don Lemon Tonight on CNN for eight years, he was known for hard-hitting interviews with public officials and compassionate dialogue with everyday people. The Don Lemon Show is now streaming on all platforms. He is the author of several bestselling books including his most recent one titled: I Once Was Lost: My Search for God in America.
Some interesting insights from this episode:
- As a Black man, he has a complicated relationship with the flag. But he is still a patriot. And as a gay man, he has a complicated relationship with the Bible. But he still believes in God.
- He was the kid whose personality could not be denied. He was likeable and easy to get along with. His charismatic personality would later help separate him from the other news anchors who were stiff and indistinguishable.
- He has always had a strong work ethic, outworking everyone around him. He worked full time while pursuing his degree full time and he never took a vacation his first ten years at CNN.
- “Every setback or shortcoming you think you have is actually a gift. You just have to figure out what that gift is and how to use it.”
- He’s ok being a lightning rod, as he’s just being himself and trying to foster healthy debate. He has learned to not care what others think about him.
- “Excellence is not about perfection. Rather, excellence is being a good citizen, a good partner, a good family member, and a good contributor to society in the world.”
Show Notes:
Books:
I Once was Lost: My Search for God in America
This Is the Fire: What I Say to My Friends About Racism
TV/Digital: