David Maraniss | Lombardi's Biographer

This week we talk with two-time Pulitzer Prize-winning author David Maraniss, whose bestsellers include biographies of Bill Clinton, Vince Lombardi, Roberto Clemente, and the city of Detroit itself.

Our discussion focuses on his Lombardi book, “When Pride Still Mattered,” one of the best biographies I’ve read on any subject, in any field of endeavor. In it, Maraniss dispels several myths about the legendary leader, including his reputation as a win-at-all-cost coach, and a tyrannical authoritarian. In fact, Lombardi believed it is better to lose honestly than win dishonestly, and that faith and family are more important than football. With his players he was undeniably a strict disciplinarian, but remarkably fair – especially appreciated by his African-American players – and surprisingly open to their ideas. And, in his personal life, he looked out for his relatives who were closeted homosexuals, showing that his love for them was greater than society’s approbation.  

Maraniss took hundreds of personal interviews with the people who knew him best and transformed them, and his insights, into a deeply considered, well-rounded portrait of a complicated man, but one whose fundamental values are as important today as ever.

Get David's books wherever books are sold.

About our Host:

For info about the book or this podcast please visit our website:

http://www.letthemleadbybacon.com

http://www.johnubacon.com

You can connect with John via these platforms:

https://www.facebook.com/johnubacon

https://twitter.com/Johnubacon

About our Host:

For info about the book or this podcast please visit our website:

http://www.letthemleadbybacon.com

http://www.johnubacon.com

You can connect with John via these platforms:

https://www.facebook.com/johnubacon

https://twitter.com/Johnubacon