
How Leaders Lead with David Novak #277: Jimmy Roberts, Emmy Award-winning broadcaster, NBC & Golf Channel – Curiosity builds connection
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Feb 5, 2026 Jimmy Roberts, a 13-time Emmy-winning broadcaster known for memorable Olympic and sports storytelling, joins to talk curiosity and connection. He discusses finding unusual human stories, the power of "untrying," discipline and preparation, balancing tough questions with respect, and how storytelling and compassion shape leadership.
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Stories Drive Olympic Connection
- The Olympics succeed because viewers connect to human stories, not scores.
- Jimmy Roberts focuses on personal narratives to make audiences care about unknown athletes.
Suit For Confidence
- Mark Messier bought a custom suit overnight for a rookie to make him feel valued.
- That gesture boosted the player's confidence and helped the team win the game.
Eric The Eel's Unlikely Triumph
- Eric 'the Eel' Musambani swam alone after others false-started and won cheers from the crowd.
- Jimmy Roberts calls that moment the essence of the Olympics: effort and courage over result.

