Richard Davies

Richard Davis, the host of the ‘How Do We Fix It?’ Podcast, has always been fascinated by audio and how sound requires us to use our imaginations. His fascination runs deep and long. Richard recorded his first newscast at the age of nine, using his father's briefcase-sized Sony tape recorder. As a child he spent countless hours creating handwritten newspapers on A4 paper for his parents. Between the ages of 12 and 14 he was a newspaper delivery boy. Those experiences would spark a lifelong interest in journalism and storytelling. 

Richard kicked off his four-decade long career in radio after he received a Bachelor's degree in history from the University of Sussex in Brighton, England. He found his way back to the U.S. in 1984 to cover the presidential campaign. After a brief stint at CNN, he joined ABC News as a national reporter, moving into the role of newscaster, business correspondent and show host during 29 years with the network. Richard reported from four continents and 35 U.S. states. He covered the 2008 Wall Street financial crash; the fall of the Berlin Wall in Germany; 1984 - 2016 Presidential elections; OPEC oil conferences; the run-up to the First Gulf War (on assignment for six weeks in Jordan); the assassination of Anwar Sadat; and the collapse the Twin Towers in New York on 9/11. His lifetime of experience has given Richard a strong belief in the power of words and the importance of truth. But he also says he has much to learn. "I've been schooled by other, far younger podcasters about what's new and different in our medium. In a world of constant change, listening carefully and with a good heart is a vital part of what we do."

In his discussions, Richard invites independent-minded, creative thinkers to discuss the ways they’re seeking to make the world better. He regularly speaks on important subjects relevant to media.

• News media and democracy: Why journalism can be a positive and destructive force at the same time
• The unique role of podcasting in media: Why many shows strengthen community and deepen our understanding of what it means to be human.
• Speech, language and editing: How the spoken word is often devalued by sloppy speech. Why editing and clear presentation of ideas is so important.
• Solutions journalism: Asking expert guests for their solutions for making the world better

Upstream Thinking

Available for viewing from PI Education

Richard is an exceptional guide and mentor. His genuine interest and love of conversation coupled with a creative spark and attention to detail make working with him a true learning experience. His thoughtful exploration of ideas and formats that work best for his clients is a gift and reflects his rich experience in journalism. He’s one of the best media trainers around — don’t give up an opportunity to learn from him.

- Amna Khalid, History professor at Carleton College