Susan Stamberg, the pioneering woman who broke barriers as the first female host of a national news program, has passed away at the age of 87. Her remarkable career at National Public Radio (NPR) spanned decades, leaving an indelible mark on the media landscape.
Stamberg's journey began in the early 1970s when NPR was still finding its footing as a nationwide network of radio stations. Her contributions were instrumental in shaping NPR's identity and influence. Over the years, she interviewed a diverse range of individuals, from prominent politicians and artists to lesser-known figures like White House chefs and behind-the-scenes Hollywood workers.
In an oral history interview with KLCC in January, Stamberg revealed that she had no female broadcast models to emulate when she became the host of 'All Things Considered' in 1972. She recalled, 'The only ones on were men, and the only thing I knew to do was imitate them.' After a few days, her program manager, Bill Siemering, advised her to be herself, which was a revolutionary concept at the time. Women in broadcasting were often trained actors with careful accents and deliveries, lacking the relaxed and natural style that Stamberg brought to the airwaves.
Stamberg's unique style and contributions were recognized by her colleagues. Jack Mitchell, a fellow NPR journalist, noted her distinct New York accent. Despite the limited resources, with only five reporters to cover a 90-minute program, Stamberg's ability to make the most of her surroundings was remarkable.
Stamberg coined the term 'founding mother' to describe herself and three other women who played pivotal roles in launching NPR: Cokie Roberts, Nina Totenberg, and Linda Wertheimer. She proudly stated, 'I got tired of hearing about Founding Fathers, and I knew we were not that, so we were obviously Founding Mothers.'
Her impact on NPR was profound. She hosted 'All Things Considered' for 14 years and later took on 'Weekend Edition Sunday,' introducing the popular Sunday puzzle feature with Will Shortz. Shortz, who continues to serve as the puzzle master, shared that Stamberg's vision was to create a radio equivalent of a Sunday newspaper, offering news, culture, sports, and a puzzle.
Stamberg's influence extended beyond her hosting roles. She became a cultural correspondent for 'Morning Edition' and 'Weekend Edition Saturday,' showcasing her versatility and dedication to storytelling. She retired in September, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy.
In 1979, Stamberg hosted a two-hour radio call-in program with President Jimmy Carter from the Oval Office, managing the listeners who called in to speak with him. This was the second time Carter had a call-in program, following a similar event with Walter Cronkite. Her ability to engage and interact with audiences was a testament to her skill and charisma.
Stamberg's contributions were widely recognized. She was inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame, praised for her conversational style, intelligence, and talent for uncovering compelling stories. Her interviews with figures like Nancy Reagan, Annie Liebowitz, Rosa Parks, and James Baldwin showcased her exceptional interviewing skills.
In 2020, Susan Stamberg was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, solidifying her impact on the media industry. Born Susan Levitt in Newark, New Jersey, in 1938, she grew up in Manhattan and met her husband, Louis Stamberg, while working in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Stamberg is survived by her son, Josh Stamberg, and her granddaughters, Vivian and Lena, leaving behind a rich legacy that will continue to inspire generations of journalists and broadcasters.
