Podcast Summary: "Tom Yamas On Honoring Your Roots and Raising Your Hand"

Episode Details:

• Title: Tom Yamas On Honoring Your Roots and Raising Your Hand
• Host: Hoda Kotb, TODAY
• Release Date: June 25, 2025
• Description: In this episode of "Making Space with Hoda Kotb," Hoda sits down with Tom Yamas, the managing editor of NBC Nightly News. Tom shares his inspiring journey from a teenage intern at Telemundo to leading one of America’s most-watched news broadcasts. He delves into his Cuban American heritage, the resilience inherited from his immigrant parents, his leadership style, and the delicate balance between a demanding career and family life.

1. Introduction and Early Beginnings

Hoda Kotb opens the episode by highlighting Tom Yamas's impressive career trajectory. Starting as a 15-year-old intern at Telemundo, Tom worked tirelessly, navigating multiple roles over three decades to eventually become the managing editor of NBC Nightly News.

Notable Quote:

“This episode is for you.” – [00:45] Hoda Kotb

2. Influences of Cuban American Heritage

Tom discusses the profound impact of his parents' immigration from Cuba on his career and personal values. Growing up in a Cuban American household where news and current events were daily topics, he developed a keen interest in journalism and storytelling.

Notable Quote:

“For Tom, this is more than a job. It is a responsibility and an honor.” – [00:45] Hoda Kotb

3. Career Journey and Achievements

From his early days at Telemundo to managing editor at NBC Nightly News, Tom recounts his dedication and the challenges faced along the way. His role involves overseeing story selection, script review, and coordinating with reporters and producers to ensure high-quality news delivery.

Notable Quote:

“I love to be in that space where it's like, I've given it my all.” – [03:19] Tom Yamas

4. Leadership and Team Cohesion

Tom emphasizes a top-down management approach, believing in being involved in every step of the news process. To foster a cohesive team environment, he integrates the Nightly News and Top Story staffs, encouraging collaboration and immediate idea-sharing.

Notable Quote:

“We have a new anchor…we combine the teams.” – [05:14] Tom Yamas

5. Balancing Career and Personal Life

Discussing the pressures of a high-stakes newsroom, Tom shares strategies for maintaining personal well-being. He highlights the importance of setting boundaries between work and home life, ensuring quality time with family despite the demanding nature of his profession.

Notable Quote:

“When I'm here, I'm here, and when I'm home, I'm home.” – [44:13] Tom Yamas

6. Parenting and Managing Emotional Stress

Tom opens up about the emotional toll of covering traumatic stories, especially those involving children. He emphasizes the need for open conversations with his own children about the realities of the world while maintaining a protective stance to shield them from undue distress.

Notable Quote:

“We talk to our kids about everything… making sure they understand.” – [43:05] Tom Yamas

7. Honoring His Roots

Reflecting on his parents' struggles and resilience, Tom illustrates how their experiences shaped his approach to life and work. He strives to honor their legacy by upholding values of hard work, dedication, and unwavering support for family.

Notable Quote:

“My parents are the most important people in their life.” – [47:23] Tom Yamas

8. Personal Development and Mentorship

Tom credits much of his success to mentors and pivotal moments in his career. He recounts receiving invaluable advice during critical transitions, such as his move from ABC News back to NBC, which allowed him to expand his expertise and leadership skills.

Notable Quote:

“The timing was different for them, and I think that happened a little bit for you too.” – [35:27] Tom Yamas

9. Vision for NBC Nightly News

Tom expresses his passion for making NBC Nightly News the premier nightly newscast in America. He believes in the power of a well-informed public and is committed to delivering urgent, engaging, and impactful stories that resonate with viewers.

Notable Quote:

“If I'm not into it, you're not going to be into it.” – [33:11] Tom Yamas

10. Perfect Day and Personal Aspirations

When prompted about his ideal day, Tom envisions a balance of physical activity, learning, relaxation, and quality time with loved ones. This reflection underscores his commitment to personal growth and family harmony.

Notable Quote:

“It's our best days, going to bed and you have exhausted life.” – [49:33] Tom Yamas

Conclusion: Tom Yamas's story is a testament to the strength drawn from one's roots and the importance of proactive engagement in both personal and professional spheres. His journey from a young intern to a leading figure in journalism illustrates how determination, passion, and honoring one's heritage can drive remarkable success. Listeners are left inspired by his insights on leadership, resilience, and the delicate balance of maintaining a fulfilling family life amidst a demanding career.

Notable Timestamps:

• Introduction of Tom Yamas: [00:45]
• Career Insights and Management Style: [03:19], [05:14]
• Balancing Work and Family: [44:13]
• Parenting Challenges: [43:05]
• Honoring Heritage: [47:23]
• Vision for NBC Nightly News: [33:11]