PERSON: Joshua Johnson

Radio Host

Joshua Johnson is the host of 1A, which is produced by NPR member station WAMU 88.5 and distributed nationally by NPR.

Johnson is a breakout public media star, most recently creator and host of the provocative nationwide public radio series, Truth Be Told, which explored race in America.

“My professional passions have always centered on creativity, exploration and service,” Joshua notes. “This moment in history demands these attributes of us. It’s a chance to tell stories more creatively, to explore ideas beyond our own, and to refocus on serving others.”

Joshua began his career helping to launch a unique partnership between Miami’s NPR station, WLRN, and The Miami Herald. He served for over five years as morning news host for KQED in San Francisco, where he became one of the station’s stars.

Joshua was born and raised in West Palm Beach and has a passion for lifelong learning. The son of a public school teacher (mother) and a Vietnam veteran (father), he says that his parents instilled in him the values of love, learning, and service.

Joshua has a natural affinity for working across media platforms. He teaches podcasting at the University of California, Berkeley School of Journalism and frequently moderates public discussions, including a recent series on equity in the San Francisco Bay Area. He is also an active member of the National Association of Black Journalists.

— npr.org