Storytelling through the Eyes of a Perfectionist

By Monica Davis

Bill Larson's career as a communicator, broadcast journalist, and writer can be an inspiration to anyone who wants to work in the field of journalism.  His experience expands 30 years of radio and television news and 10 years as an anchor and field correspondent.  He had the uncanny ability to bring news to his audience in such a way that allowed them to feel the emotion through his words.

Bill's media background expands beyond broadcasting into television, film, theater, commercials and more.  He was recognized for the award-winning documentary he wrote and narrated: "John Glenn Recalls the Flight Friendship 7."  He became a distinguished  broadcaster through his report of America's space program in the 1960s and '70's.

With news being his first love and passion, he remembers a few highlights during his illustrious career.  "They're not all happy highlights," he recalls.  He remembers being one of the first journalists to report the Apollo One fire in 1967.  Covering the moon landing was also an emotional experience for him.  He vividly remembers reporting from the Apollo 14 and covering the second inauguration of President Nixon.

As a perfectionist, Bill was very successful in delivering quality in-depth news stories with vigor and enthusiasm.  When asked whether he would do anything differently if he had the chance, he replied, "I am pretty satisfied with everything I did."  He delivered each and every story from an objective point of view, leaving his audience with the ability to draw their own conclusions.

His advice to today's anchors and reporters; "If you have a specialty, be the best that you can within that area; it will help set you apart."  Bill attributes his longevity in the broadcast industry to mutual respect, honesty and ethics.

He had a great career but these days Bill Larson is enjoying semi-retirement.  He continues to write, co-produce and narrate videos for production companies and government agencies.

Bill also has a passion for reading.  Several of his favorite books are: "American Experience in China" 1911-1945, by Barbara Tuchman; William Manchester's "The Young Lion," a biography of Sir Winston Churchill; "The Last Lion, Winston Spencer Churchill: Alone," 1932-1940, and "Zelda" a biography of Scott Fitzgerald's wife Zelda.