Call Me Ted

“Call Me Ted” is the autobiography of Ted Turner, the media mogul and philanthropist best known for founding CNN and revolutionizing news broadcasting. In the book, Turner recounts his life from his childhood in a wealthy but tumultuous family to his rise as a pioneering figure in media.

Key Themes and Highlights:

1. Early Life: Turner shares anecdotes from his upbringing in a privileged yet challenging environment. He discusses the impact of his father’s suicide and the lessons he learned from his mother about resilience and determination.

2. Career Beginnings: Ted details his entry into the media industry, starting with his father’s billboard business. He recounts how he took over the family business and eventually transformed it into a successful cable television network.

3. CNN and Innovation: The book focuses on the creation of CNN, the first 24-hour news channel. Turner describes the challenges he faced, including skepticism from the industry and financial hurdles, and how his vision for real-time news reporting changed the landscape of journalism.

4. Business Philosophy: Turner reflects on his business strategies, including his willingness to take risks and embrace failure. He emphasizes the importance of innovation and staying ahead of trends.

5. Philanthropy and Conservation: Turner is also known for his environmental activism and philanthropy. He discusses his commitment to wildlife conservation and the establishment of the Turner Foundation, emphasizing the importance of protecting the planet.

6. Personal Life: The autobiography touches on Turner’s personal relationships, including his marriages and family life, offering insights into the challenges of balancing a demanding career with personal happiness.

7. Cultural Impact: Turner discusses his views on media’s role in society, the responsibilities of journalists, and the influence of television on culture and politics.

Overall, “Call Me Ted” is a candid and engaging account of Turner’s life, filled with lessons on entrepreneurship, the media industry, and the importance of giving back.