Podcast Summary: "Who Killed JFK? – Very Special Episodes: JFK's Forgotten Summer as a Journalist (with Rob Reiner)"

Release Date: June 27, 2025

In this compelling episode of Who Killed JFK?, hosted by Dana Schwartz, Zaron Burnett, and Jason English, in collaboration with legendary filmmaker Rob Reiner, the podcast delves into a lesser-known chapter of President John F. Kennedy's life—his brief yet impactful foray into journalism during the tumultuous summer of 1945. This episode, titled "JFK's Forgotten Summer as a Journalist," explores how this period shaped Kennedy's political trajectory and provides new insights into his character and leadership qualities.

1. Setting the Historical Context

[02:03] Dana Schwartz begins by transporting listeners back to April 27, 1961, when JFK arrived in New York City to address the American Newspaper Publishers Association at the Waldorf Astoria. This event occurred during Press Week, amidst heightened Cold War tensions following the Bay of Pigs invasion.

Key Points:

• JFK's speech titled "The President and the Press" emphasized the delicate balance between national security and press freedom.
• He urged journalists to exercise discretion, especially regarding sensitive military information, highlighting the importance of a united front in times of peril.

Notable Quote:

[04:02] Zaron Burnett: "The government and the press have customarily joined in an effort based largely on self-discipline to prevent unauthorized disclosures to the enemy in times of clear and present danger."

2. Rob Reiner's Introduction to JFK's Journalism Career

[07:49] Jason English introduces Rob Reiner, renowned for his directorial works, who reflects on his own encounter with JFK's assassination years later. Reiner shares his enthusiasm for uncovering JFK's lesser-known journalistic endeavors, setting the stage for an in-depth exploration.

3. JFK's Military Background and Its Influence

[10:25] Dana Schwartz recounts JFK's heroic service during World War II as a PT boat commander. His survival of the PT-109 incident not only solidified his leadership qualities but also instilled a profound sense of duty and global awareness that would later influence his political decisions.

Key Points:

• JFK's experience in the Pacific theater exposed him to the harsh realities of war.
• The loss of his brother, Joseph Kennedy Jr., during the war shifted JFK's path towards public service.

Notable Quote:

[16:20] Rob Reiner: "His World War II experience and especially his experience in the Pacific has a very important effect on young Jack Kennedy."

4. Transition to Journalism: The Uncharted Path

Post-war, Jack Kennedy faced the daunting task of stepping into the political shoes his deceased brother was groomed for. Encouraged by his father and leveraging family connections, JFK transitioned into journalism, signing on as a syndicated special correspondent for the Hearst newspapers.

Key Points:

• JFK authored a bestselling book, Why England Slept, showcasing his analytical prowess and positioning him as a credible journalist.
• His reporting assignments included significant events like the founding conference of the United Nations in San Francisco and the British general elections of 1945.

Notable Quote:

[19:04] Rob Reiner: "He has the instincts of a good journalist. The unflagging curiosity, the eyes, the ears."

5. Coverage of the United Nations Conference

JFK's first major assignment as a correspondent placed him at the heart of the San Francisco conference, where delegates from 46 nations convened to establish the United Nations. Amidst this historical backdrop, JFK provided insightful commentary on emerging global dynamics, particularly the nascent tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union.

Key Points:

• JFK's articles reflected a keen understanding of the shifting global power structures.
• He accurately predicted the rise of a bipolar world dominated by the U.S. and the USSR, an insight that later became central to Cold War strategies.

Notable Quote:

[25:29] Rob Reiner: "His awareness that Britain is a faded power, that Britain is emerging drastically weakened from the war... affirmed a conviction that the United States must become the leader of the west going forward."

6. Reporting on British Elections and Churchill's Defeat

In London, JFK covered the 1945 British general elections, where Winston Churchill's Conservative Party suffered an unexpected defeat to the Labour Party. Through his journalistic lens, JFK analyzed the political shifts and their implications for post-war Europe.

Key Points:

• JFK's foresight in predicting Churchill's electoral defeat demonstrated his analytical skills and deep political acumen.
• His reporting underscored the broader trend of shifting political landscapes in post-war nations.

Notable Quote:

[33:54] Rob Reiner: "Even in one or two of his pieces... suggests that the conservatives are in some trouble, which to many people seems absolutely crazy."

7. The End of JFK's Journalistic Journey and Its Impact

As World War II drew to a close, JFK's stint in journalism came to an end, but the experiences and insights he gained during this period profoundly influenced his subsequent political career. The connections he forged, the stories he covered, and the skills he honed laid the foundation for his future as a politician.

Key Points:

• JFK's decision to shift from journalism to politics was driven by a desire to enact change rather than merely report on it.
• His journalistic endeavors provided him with a unique perspective on international relations and leadership.

Notable Quote:

[43:17] Zaron Burnett: "A reporter is reporting what happens, he's not making it happen."

8. Hypothetical Scenarios and Legacy

The episode ventures into speculative discussions about how JFK's life might have unfolded had circumstances been different, such as the survival of his brother Joseph Jr., exploring alternative career paths and leadership roles.

Key Points:

• The conversation highlights JFK's innate leadership qualities and his potential for various roles beyond the presidency.
• It underscores the significant "what ifs" in historical trajectories shaped by unforeseen events.

Notable Quote:

[45:00] Jason English: "He had a curious mind and he had a great way of expressing himself. Would he have made a great journalist? Of course he would."

9. Conclusion: The Indelible Mark of JFK's Journalism

The hosts reflect on how JFK's brief journalism career was a pivotal chapter that enriched his understanding of global politics, media relations, and leadership. This episode serves as a reminder of the multifaceted experiences that shaped one of America's most iconic presidents.

Key Points:

• JFK's journalistic skills contributed to his charisma and effectiveness as a political leader.
• Understanding this forgotten summer provides deeper insights into JFK's motivations and policies as president.

Notable Quote:

[38:13] Rob Reiner: "What I take away from the diary is a sense that the world order has fundamentally shifted..."

Final Thoughts

Who Killed JFK? masterfully intertwines historical analysis with engaging narratives, shedding light on JFK's lesser-known journey as a journalist. Through insightful discussions and expert interviews, including contributions from Rob Reiner, the podcast enriches our understanding of the personal and professional experiences that molded JFK into the leader he became.

For listeners seeking a nuanced perspective on JFK's life and the enduring mysteries surrounding his assassination, this episode offers a profound exploration of how a summer spent penning stories played a crucial role in shaping American history.