158: How This ESPN Journalist Reinvented His Career After Being Fired | Steve Delsohn
Steve Delsohn, award-winning investigative journalist and founder of Delsohn Strategies, spent 16 years at ESPN uncovering some of sports’ darkest stories. But when his journalism career ended overnight - ironically, one day after receiving two major awards - Steve chose reinvention over resentment. In this episode, host Damon Lembi and Steve delve into what it means to lose your professional identity, how to rebuild on your own terms, and the ethics that guide great storytelling, no matter the industry.
Read the full breakdown of Steve Delsohn’s episode on Learnit.
Key Leadership Lessons from Steve Delsohn’s Journey:
Rejection can be a redirection. When ESPN let Steve go, he didn’t collapse - he built something new, grounded in the same values that made his journalism thrive.
Integrity is your greatest asset. From turning down work with Harvey Weinstein to saying no to ethically dubious clients, Steve shows that a “no” can carry more power than a “yes.”
The best interviewers ask better questions. Steve’s secret weapon - whether in journalism or PR - is his ability to ask the right question at the right time, building trust and getting to the truth.
Connect with Steve Delsohn:
Website: Delsohn Strategies
LinkedIn: Steve Delsohn
Steve Delsohn is the author of 12 nonfiction books and a Peabody Award-winning journalist. His investigations have shaped national conversations on sports ethics, institutional accountability, and survivor justice.
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