Tom Hudson (photo left), the new co-host of the prestigious PBS Nightly Business Report was kind enough to take the time to answer a few questions on his new career. He describes his journalism background, his plans for the show, as well as shares the privilege of working with the respected Susie Gharib. He also talks about the unique challenge of following in the footsteps of business journalism legend Paul Kangas.
Thanks to Tom Hudson for these wonderful answers and for taking the time to share them with us.
All my best to Tom Hudson on his success as new role as co-anchor of PBS Nightly Business Report.
How did you get started in financial journalism?
Tom Hudson: After spending 10 years working as a radio news anchor, reporter and manager covering general news, I grew increasingly interested and curious about covering the connective tissue of many news stories…money. Having been an investor since my teenage years, I always had a personal interest in finance and during the late 90s stock market rally, I was given more opportunities to explore the markets and money.
I left full-time radio anchoring and reporting in 2000 for a position with a start-up WebFN, which was the first streaming video financial news website. While the timing may not have been perfect (I started three months after the top of the NASDAQ in March 2000), it did provide me with the chance to report from some of the most dynamic, complex and integral markets in the world. I spent many of my days at the Chicago Board Options Exchange, the Chicago Board of Trade and the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, seeing how regulatory, legislative and corporate policies impact money in real time.
What led you to join PBS and become part of the prestigious Nightly Business Report team?
Tom Hudson: PBS and Nightly Business Report have a tradition of journalism excellence and innovation. Previous to joining NBR, I spent the previous six and a half years creating and building a national commercial TV personal finance program, First Business TV, where I was host and managing editor. The opportunity at NBR is one of those once-in-a-lifetime moments. NBR created and has set the standard of financial TV reporting for three decades. I am humbled and excited for the chance to work with such a top-notch team. Replacing Paul Kangas is not a duty I take lightly. I am committed to continuing his standard of excellence.
How would you describe your journalistic style for reporting stories and interviewing guests?
Tom Hudson: I aim for information gathering and elucidation. I aim for clarity and accountability. I aim for insights and clear analysis. I aim for foresight and accurate reflection.
Money is the last taboo and I try to uncover and demystify financial forces big and small, making them relevant and relatable to our audience.
Do you plan to make any changes, in conjunction with the producers, to the format and content of the show?
Tom Hudson: The mission of NBR will not change and that is to empower its viewers. Beginning January 4, 2010 we will have a new look with new sets in Miami and with Susie Gharib the New York Stock Exchange. We also will begin using some new technology which will enable us to tell stories in new ways.
What challenges do you foresee in the future for your new job as anchor on the show?
Tom Hudson: The first will be getting used to humidity in January. Coming from Chicago, not having my shovel at the ready through April will be a big change.
One of the biggest challenges will be patience. Paul has been involved with NBR since its beginning and the audience has a strong affinity for him. His work is legendary. It will take the audience some time to get to know me and get used to the new look coming to NBR in January. While Paul may be leaving the anchor desk (and we’ll be getting rid of the literal anchor desk), NBR’s commitment to integrity, innovation and information won’t change.
You are taking over as anchor during a very eventful time. What background study and preparation do you do prior to examining a story or conducting an interview?
Tom Hudson: Journalism is a way of life. One has to be curious about all things in order to be a good reporter. One can’t stop asking questions just because the TV program is over.
Practically speaking, I assign myself lots of homework. That includes analysts’ reports, economic commentaries, think tank white papers, academic research as well as anecdotal stories collected from various sources.
The Nightly Business Report has long been a leader in innovation in using technology, social media, and the latest communications channels to reach their audience. Are you planning to help continue and grow this important trend?
Tom Hudson: A growing online presence incorporated with the daily TV program is a goal of ours. We plan on using both mediums to fulfill NBR’s mission to empower its audience, where ever they may be.
You will be co-anchoring with the respected Susie Gharib. Have you met her before taking over as her co-anchor?
Tom Hudson: Susie has been generous in welcoming me to the NBR family. Her work and work ethic benefits all of the organization and its viewers. I’m excited to work with her.
You are filling some really big shoes following the legendary and highly respected Paul Kangas. How do you plan to put your own personal stamp on the show?
Tom Hudson: Paul has been an innovator in business journalism for 30 years. I can only hope to build upon the standard of excellence he has set. My style is to be well-informed, inquisitive and insightful. NBR will remain true to its mission while we work hard to present the story of money every night on the TV program and every day online.
How can we follow you and The Nightly Business Report on Twitter for the latest updates in the world of business?
Tom Hudson: The NBR Twitter posts can be followed here: http://twitter.com/bizrpt
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