Summary of "The Interview with Leslie Heaney" Podcast Episode: [REVISIT] The Women Who Created a President - feat. Ed O'Keefe

Introduction

In this captivating episode of "The Interview with Leslie Heaney," host Leslie Heaney engages in an in-depth conversation with Edward O'Keefe, the CEO of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Foundation and author of his debut book, "The Loves of Theodore Roosevelt: The Women Who Created a President." The discussion explores the profound influence of the women in Theodore Roosevelt's life and Ed's pivotal role in establishing a unique presidential library dedicated to Roosevelt in North Dakota.

Guest Background

Edward O'Keefe brings a distinguished background to the conversation. With over two decades in broadcast and digital media, Ed has garnered numerous accolades, including a Primetime Emmy Award for his collaboration with Anthony Bourdain on "Parts Unknown," two Webby Awards, an Edward R. Murrow Award, and a George Foster Peabody Award for ABC News' coverage of 9/11. A former fellow at the Harvard Kennedy School, Ed transitioned from media to historical research, driven by his lifelong passion for Theodore Roosevelt.

The Book: "The Loves of Theodore Roosevelt"

Ed introduces his book as a groundbreaking exploration of the women who significantly shaped Roosevelt's personal and political life. He emphasizes that while Roosevelt is often celebrated as a self-made man embodying American resilience, his success was deeply intertwined with the support and influence of the women around him.

[07:36] Edward O'Keefe: "I thought I knew everything about Theodore Roosevelt. And here are these amazing women who have not gotten their due in history. I want to write that story."

Theodore Roosevelt’s Formative Years

Roosevelt's formative years in North Dakota were crucial in developing his character and leadership qualities. Ed explains how these experiences in the rugged Badlands contrasted sharply with Roosevelt's smog-ridden upbringing in New York, providing him with the resilience and appreciation for nature that defined his presidency.

[03:09] Edward O'Keefe: "Nature was Theodore Roosevelt's tonic and healer. Nature was his classroom."

The Women in TR's Life

Ed delves into the lives of the key women who influenced Roosevelt:

• Mitty (Mother): Often underestimated, Mitty's strength and vivacity were instrumental in shaping Roosevelt's character. Ed challenges historical narratives that minimize her impact.

  [15:14] Edward O'Keefe: "Mitty was the source of TR's personality. She's vivacious, sharp-tongued, with a lively disposition."

• Bami (Older Sister): Described as the family's "real atlas," Bami played a vital role in managing family affairs and supporting Roosevelt's burgeoning political career.

  [46:50] Edward O'Keefe: "Bami... took care of the baby for three years while he was out in the badlands."

• Connie (Younger Sister): Connie acted as Roosevelt's first press secretary, skillfully navigating political landscapes to advance his career.

  [46:58] Edward O'Keefe: "Connie would sit in meetings sewing, but she heard everything, providing invaluable insights for Roosevelt."

• Alice Hathaway Lee: Roosevelt's first wife, whose untimely death had a profound emotional impact on him, shaping his subsequent personal and political decisions.

  [19:52] Edge O'Keefe: "TR's first wife, Alice, was the light of his life. Her death left an indelible mark on him."

• Edith Kermit Carow: Roosevelt's second wife, Edith, redefined the role of First Lady with her practical approach and significant influence on presidential duties and the White House's functionality.

  [50:57] Edward O'Keefe: "Edith advises. She reads four to five newspapers a day. She takes walks with Theodore every morning."

TR's Personal Relationships and Loss

A pivotal moment discussed is the simultaneous loss of Roosevelt's first wife, Alice, and his mother, Mitty, on Valentine’s Day, 1884. This tragedy propelled him into a period of mourning that ultimately led to his retreat to North Dakota, where he spent two transformative years.

[37:00] Edward O'Keefe: "On February 14, 1884, both Alice and Mitty died, plunging TR into deep mourning and leading him to the Badlands."

Ed O’Keefe’s Research and Findings

During his fellowship at Harvard, Ed unearthed previously undisclosed letters that shed new light on Roosevelt's relationships with the women in his life. These primary sources provided fresh insights, challenging existing biographies and highlighting the indispensable support systems that enabled Roosevelt's achievements.

[11:15] Edward O'Keefe: "The letters between Alice and TR open up a new dimension in their relationship, showing her integral role in his life."

The Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library

Ed discusses his instrumental role in establishing the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library in North Dakota—the first and only library of its kind dedicated to a president outside of Washington, D.C. Funded with $234 million raised and a $50 million endowment from the state, the library is set to open on July 4, 2026, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of America.

[57:47] Edward O'Keefe: "Our anticipated opening is July 4, 2026, the 250th anniversary of America. It's going to be extraordinary."

Designed by Snohetta, the library integrates seamlessly with the landscape, offering visitors immersive experiences that celebrate Roosevelt’s legacy while promoting leadership, citizenship, and conservation.

[58:14] Edward O'Keefe: "The library is not just about the past. It's about creating citizens of the future who are inspired to make a difference."

Contemporary Issues: Statue Removal

The episode touches on the removal of Roosevelt’s equestrian statue from the Museum of Natural History due to its problematic portrayal. Ed explains the decision to relocate the statue to North Dakota, aligning with Roosevelt's own disinterest in personal monuments and fostering a more contextual dialogue around his legacy.

[60:00] Edward O'Keefe: "Preserving the statue in a respectful manner aligns with honoring Roosevelt's true legacy, free from misplaced symbols."

The Influence of Roosevelt’s Siblings

Ed highlights the critical roles played by Roosevelt's sisters, Bami and Connie, in his political ascent. Their strategic support, from managing family affairs to acting as de facto press secretaries, was pivotal in shaping his public image and facilitating his rise to national prominence.

[47:40] Leslie Heaney: "Bami knew how to build his persona, much like modern political advisors."

Roosevelt’s Political Career and Legacy

The discussion explores Roosevelt’s dynamic political career, from his tenure as New York State Assemblyman to his heroic exploits in the Spanish-American War. Ed emphasizes how the women in his life provided the necessary support and guidance that enabled him to implement pioneering policies in conservation, labor rights, and public health.

[35:39] Edward O'Keefe: "He was a populist politician who fought for fair wages, equal work, and conservation—far ahead of his time."

Conclusion

The episode concludes with Ed sharing his vision for the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library as a beacon for future generations. He underscores the library’s mission to inspire action and civic engagement, echoing Roosevelt’s own belief in the power of individual initiative to effect change.

[65:03] Edward O'Keefe: "The Theodore Roosevelt Library is about creating citizens of the future who are inspired to make a difference, embodying Roosevelt’s life lesson: action can make a difference."

Leslie expresses her enthusiasm for both the book and the upcoming library, encouraging listeners to support the initiative and engage with Roosevelt’s enduring legacy.

[67:37] Leslie Heaney: "The Crown meets Yellowstone. If you're listening, Netflix, let's do it."

Notable Quotes

• Edward O'Keefe [03:09]: "Nature was Theodore Roosevelt's tonic and healer. Nature was his classroom."

• Edward O'Keefe [15:14]: "Mitty was the source of TR's personality. She's vivacious, sharp-tongued, with a lively disposition."

• Edward O'Keefe [46:50]: "Bami introduced him to journalists, building his public persona."

• Edward O'Keefe [57:47]: "Our anticipated opening is July 4, 2026, the 250th anniversary of America. It's going to be extraordinary."

• Edward O'Keefe [65:03]: "The Theodore Roosevelt Library is about creating citizens of the future who are inspired to make a difference, embodying Roosevelt’s life lesson: action can make a difference."

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the essence of the podcast episode, highlighting the pivotal role of women in shaping Theodore Roosevelt's legacy and Ed O'Keefe's contributions to preserving and celebrating this history through his upcoming book and the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library.