Leading in Times of Challenge with Dave Busiek

Dave Busiek began his career at WHO Radio. He worked there three years before becoming a reporter for KCCI. He became the news director for KCCI in 1990. Dave retired after 42 years in broadcast journalism, having won many broadcasting awards. He was recently inducted into the Broadcasters Hall of Fame.

Communication is Key

A few milestone events that Dave dealt with included the Floods of ’93 and 9/11. He says the COVID-19 pandemic trumps both in terms of worldwide impact and the importance of journalism to provide information for people. Journalists are in a critical position, not only needing to provide expertise to the people, but also dealing with their own health, families and more.

Dave reflects on losing electricity during the floods, using a generator, dealing with technical issues and navigating workplace issues they couldn’t necessarily prepare for. When dealing with crisis, Dave says communication is key. You can’t over-communicate in a time like that. As a manager, you are pulled in many different directions and you have to ensure you’re talking to people and listening to your staff.

The Leading in Times of Challenge podcast was previously produced by the Greater Des Moines Partnership. To learn more about community events and leadership, check out The Partnership blog.