The Voice of NZ Rugby - Tony Johnson on Eden Park, Working with Paul Holmes, Prostate Cancer & More!
Episode Description
Tony Johnson is one of New Zealand’s greatest sports broadcasters of all time.
He has been part of the country’s sports media landscape for decades and, despite being at retirement age, is still at the top of his game.
We cover some of the Tony Johnson story here. On his first long form podcast ever:
Hosting TV3 News with John Hawkesby when the station launched in the 90s.
Working with Paul Holmes on his Newstalk ZB breakfast radio show. And their massive falling out.
His health scare with prostate cancer. And why he has now become an ambassador for men’s health.
Then the commentary stuff: his preparation and perfectionism, the bloopers, his thoughts on Scott Robertson and Leon McDonald and much more.
This episode is packed full of great stories and takeaways from a great New Zealander who has seen it all, done it all. AND is still doing it all.
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00:00 Media Career Reflections With Tony Johnson 09:11 Rugby Reflections and Personal History 18:17 Resilience and Sporting Memories 29:45 Broadcaster Memories and Morning Alarms 32:49 Radio Evolution and Broadcasting Memories 45:32 TV3 and Radio Drama 56:30 Prostate Cancer, Family, and Resilience 01:02:45 Prostate Cancer Awareness and Advice 01:13:59 Mental Health and Open Conversations 01:17:24 Navigating Social Media Criticism in Sports 01:22:17 Navigating Sports Commentary and Criticism 01:34:06 Broadcasting, Preparation, and Commentary 01:44:58 Encouraging Positive Youth Sports Participation 01:48:35 Sports Interview Reflections 01:58:11 Ted's Emotional Reflections on Rugby 02:05:46 Broadcasting Legacy and Appreciation
Brief Summary
Tony Johnson discusses his broadcasting career, prostate cancer journey, and the importance of health awareness for men.
Key points
- Tony Johnson's Journey. From radio to TV, Tony shares his evolution in the broadcasting industry.
- A Mother's Resilience. He reflects on his mother's strength and support throughout his life, especially after loss.
- The Importance of Accessibility. He discusses the need for better facilities for sports fans with disabilities.
- From Radio to Commentary. After struggling to find commentary jobs, he set up a station in London.
- The Dennis Connor Incident. An unexpected confrontation leads to iconic footage during the America's Cup.
- A Father's Reflection. Sharing the emotional impact of being a father during health struggles.
Ask about Dom Harvey
Episode highlights
- Tony Johnson's JourneyFrom radio to TV, Tony shares his evolution in the broadcasting industry.“I found a niche, I suppose.”3:04Oct 30, 2024
- A Mother's ResilienceHe reflects on his mother's strength and support throughout his life, especially after loss.“She’s still fantastic and very resilient.”19:59Oct 30, 2024
- The Importance of AccessibilityHe discusses the need for better facilities for sports fans with disabilities.“We could still do it a hell of a lot better.”25:21Oct 30, 2024
- From Radio to CommentaryAfter struggling to find commentary jobs, he set up a station in London.“I wanted to be more of a commentator.”37:24Oct 30, 2024
- The Dennis Connor IncidentAn unexpected confrontation leads to iconic footage during the America's Cup.“We got this amazing footage of Dennis Connor having a fight with a cameraman.”47:47Oct 30, 2024
- A Father's ReflectionSharing the emotional impact of being a father during health struggles.“I couldn't bear the thought of my daughter growing up without a dad.”1:00:57Oct 30, 2024
- Personal Journey with CancerChoosing to keep cancer diagnosis private until ready to share.“I just wanted to deal with it amongst my own close group.”1:11:39Oct 30, 2024
- The Evolution of VulnerabilityThe perception of vulnerability has shifted from weakness to strength in recent years.“We know now there's strength in vulnerability.”1:19:31Oct 30, 2024
