By Hal eisner
A Memoir by Hal Eisner
My Fifty-Eight-Year Adventure as a Broadcast News Reporter
Veteran broadcast journalist Hal Eisner reflects on nearly six decades in news — from radio beginnings to 43 years reporting on Los Angeles television.
In Hal’s Own Words
For decades, I told the stories of others—people and communities from Texas to California. Now, it’s my turn.
Watch these companion videos, hosted by LA area Journalist Elsa Ramon, where I explain some of the deeper stories and share some anecdotes from my experience over the years.
A memoir by award-winning journalist Hal Eisner
About the Book
A remarkable journey through the world of broadcast journalism, shaped by perseverance, public service, and a lifelong commitment to storytelling.
From radio beginnings to decades in Los Angeles television news, Hal recounts the defining moments, challenges, and lessons of a 58-year career in reporting.
Working with CNN and local stations including FOX 11 and KCOP, Hal became known for thoughtful and impactful reporting during some of Southern California’s most defining moments.
Through engaging anecdotes and candid reflections, An Accidental Career explores the realities of the broadcast industry, the ethical challenges journalists face, and the human stories behind the headlines.
Hal Eisner: A Career by the Numbers:
Years in Broadcast Journalism
Years in Television News
Years in Radio
journalists mentored
Why I Wrote This Book
“I didn’t set out to become a journalist — and I certainly didn’t expect it to last nearly sixty years.
This book is about the unexpected path that led me here — the stories that stayed with me, the mistakes I made, the mentors who guided me, and the people who trusted me with their truth.
An Accidental Career is my way of sharing that journey and reminding others that the things in our lives that seem unintended can be life-changing.”
— Hal Eisner
Witness to History
Coverage includes the Los Angeles riots, the Northridge earthquake, major trials, natural disasters, and countless community-defining moments.
Nearly Six Decades in News
From early radio reporting to television journalism in Los Angeles, Hal’s career spans fifty-eight years of evolving media and storytelling.
Award-Winning Journalist
Recipient of multiple awards including Emmys, Golden Mikes, the Stan Chambers Award for Extraordinary Achievement and others.
Mentor & Educator
Founder of Camp News (formerly APTRA Academy), helping train and mentor the next generation of journalists.
These experiences — planned and accidental — form the heart of the book.
– Hal Eisner
Who is Hal Eisner
On the Front Lines of Defining Moments
Over the course of his career, Hal Eisner has reported from the center of events that shaped Los Angeles and the nation. From natural disasters like the Northridge earthquake to moments of civil unrest and historic criminal trials, he has been present when clarity and calm were most needed.
A Life Spent Reporting the World as It Unfolded
Hal’s journey in journalism spans nearly six decades, beginning in radio before evolving alongside the modern television news industry. Throughout these changes, his commitment to accuracy, storytelling, and public trust never wavered.
Recognized for Excellence in Broadcast Journalism
His reporting has earned multiple Emmy Awards, Golden Mike Awards, and recognition from press organizations throughout California and beyond.
Shaping the Next Generation of Journalists
Beyond the newsroom, Hal has devoted significant energy to mentoring young journalists. As the founder of Camp News, he created a hands-on environment where aspiring reporters learn directly from working professionals.
Stories about the Book and more
Follow Along
Finding My Voice Off Camera: Writing in My Own Words
In the newsroom, the story is never about me. Writing this book required finding a personal voice while staying true to my journalistic instincts. I had to balance honesty, humility, and clarity to make the memoir feel authentic.
The process involved long hours of reflection, rereading past interviews, and thinking deeply about how to translate life experience into compelling narratives. I found that writing in my own words opened new insights about both the past and my perspective on journalism.
Sharing your own story is a delicate art, but I hope this post inspires other writers to find their authentic voice, just as I did when leaving the camera behind.
The First Draft: Why It’s Always Messier Than You Think
No draft is perfect, and that’s okay. The first draft is where the real journey begins, and the messiness is a natural part of the process. I embraced the imperfection as an opportunity to discover new angles and insights.
Writing this memoir reminded me of the countless rewrites in journalism — the process of refining, clarifying, and shaping the story. With each revision, the narrative became sharper and more personal.
For new writers, I offer this advice: give yourself permission to write badly at first. It’s only through writing that the story takes shape.
How Journalism Taught Me to Write (And Why That Helps Now)
Decades in television and radio taught me clarity, structure, and storytelling under pressure. Those lessons were invaluable when approaching my memoir.
I found that pacing, narrative flow, and attention to detail are as important on the page as they are on camera. Every chapter became a carefully constructed story, informed by years of reporting.
For journalists considering writing a book, I encourage leveraging the skills you already have — storytelling, investigation, and connecting with an audience — to craft compelling prose.
Ask the Author
Got a question for Hal? A book review? Use this form to reach out to Hal and his team.