Overcoming the Odds: Emmy Award-winning ESPN sportscaster shares how childhood influences, mentors, and Hampton University shaped his journalism career.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Brian Custer.

Summary of the Interview

On Money Making Conversations Masterclass, Rushion McDonald interviews Brian Custer—Emmy Award–winning sportscaster, ESPN anchor, play-by-play commentator, cancer survivor, fashion enthusiast, and HBCU graduate of Hampton University. The discussion moves through Custer’s early life in Columbus, Ohio; the influence of Black media figures on his career; his journey from a childhood dreamer sitting beside his grandmother watching Walter Cronkite to becoming a nationally recognized sports broadcaster; and his path into fraternity life as a member of Kappa Alpha Psi.

Custer describes how he discovered broadcasting at an early age, secured internships in high school, and worked grueling night shifts in radio before transitioning into television. But the most powerful portion of the interview is his emotional recounting of his battle with aggressive prostate cancer at age 42—a diagnosis he initially wanted to hide. He shares the moment his doctor insisted he use his platform to educate men of color about prostate cancer, a mission he now treats as a calling.

The interview ends with sports talk—including commentary on the Gervonta “Tank” Davis vs. Ryan Garcia fight—and a heartfelt exchange about mentorship, legacy, and the importance of Black excellence and representation in media.

Purpose of the Interview

1. To spotlight Brian Custer’s broadcasting journey

He shares how childhood influences, mentors, and early opportunities shaped his journalism career.

2. To promote awareness about prostate cancer in men of color

Custer uses his personal story to break stigmas surrounding screenings, early detection, and open discussion.

3. To inspire listeners to pursue their dreams despite obstacles

He emphasizes resilience—from working overnight radio shifts to confronting a life-threatening diagnosis.

4. To highlight the impact of HBCUs and Black fraternities

He explains how Hampton University and Kappa Alpha Psi shaped his identity and leadership.

5. To celebrate representation in sports media

Custer honors trailblazers like Irv Cross, James Brown, and Carol Simpson, showing how visibility opened doors.

Key Takeaways

1. Early exposure builds dreams

Watching Walter Cronkite, Friday Night Videos, and Ted Koppel developed his passion for broadcasting.
His grandmother’s nightly viewing rituals deeply influenced him.

2. Representation matters

Seeing Irv Cross, James Brown, and Carol Simpson on television affirmed his ambition and provided powerful role models.

3. Hard work—not shortcuts—built his career

Custer’s first job was midnight–8 a.m. radio, reading hourly newscasts.
He later interned and volunteered long after programs ended to gain experience.

4. Prostate cancer is a silent but deadly threat

His routine physical revealed a suspicious PSA level (5.4), leading to a biopsy and an aggressive cancer diagnosis.
He initially refused repeat screenings due to stigma but credits his doctor’s persistence with saving his life.

5. Using his platform for good became a mandate

His surgeon urged him to become an advocate for prostate cancer awareness—particularly for Black men, who are disproportionately affected.

6. Vulnerability creates connection

Custer’s openness about fear, masculinity, and mortality mirrors Rushion’s own thyroid cancer journey, creating an intimate, healing conversation.

7. Career longevity requires authenticity and relationship-building

Custer praises mentors like James Brown and the brotherhood of Black media professionals.
He underscores the importance of connections—not shortcuts—in building a respected brand.

Notable Quotes

(All directly from the transcript.) [Brian Custer | Txt]

On childhood dreams & representation

• “I knew what I wanted to do when I was five.”
• “Ted Koppel… the way he interviewed people… I was enthralled.”
• “Irv Cross was the guy… then it became James Brown for me.”

On fraternity life

• “All I knew was Kappa Alpha Psi.”
• “The streets of heaven are crimson and cream.”

On breaking into broadcasting

• “My first job… midnight to eight… delivering the newscast every hour.”
• “The news director said, ‘You certainly don’t look the way you sound.’”

On prostate cancer

• “You got cancer. It’s aggressive.”
• “All I heard was cancer.”
• “My doctor said, ‘Use your platform… men of color need a young face like you.’”

On stigma and survival

• “People stereotype what a cancer survivor looks like.”
• “Cancer doesn’t go away when you ignore it.”

On sports and life

• (On Garcia vs. Tank Davis):
  “That liver shot… it was a business decision. He’s too pretty to get his face rearranged.”

On brotherhood and mentorship

• “You’re a legend in this business.”
• “We’re brothers now… I’m lumping you in with my best friend.”

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

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