Sneak peek into Ep 196: The Suffering of a Journalist with Keith Sargeant

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In this sneak peek of episode 196, renowned sports journalist Keith Sargeant opens up about his challenging experience during the COVID-19 pandemic. With sports halted in 2020, Keith was reassigned from sports journalism to frontline news reporting. He shares his eye-opening journey covering the lives of real-world heroes—doctors, nurses, and other frontline workers—battling the pandemic. Through his reporting, Keith sheds light on the devastating mental health crisis caused by COVID-19, including rising suicide rates and the emotional toll on individuals struggling with isolation and fear. His stories provide an intimate look into the sacrifices and strength of those on the frontlines, as well as the broader societal impacts of the pandemic.

Keith’s unexpected shift from sports writing to pandemic coverage gave him a deeper appreciation for the human side of journalism. In this episode, he reflects on the impact of reporting on life-or-death situations, mental health struggles, and the heroic actions of ordinary people during unprecedented times. If you’re interested in stories about journalism during the pandemic, mental health, and the untold stories of frontline workers, this episode offers a compelling glimpse into how one reporter navigated the challenges of covering the COVID-19 crisis. Don’t miss this insightful conversation with Keith Sargeant, where sports and news intersect in a time of global crisis.

From July 2014 through 2022, Keith covered Rutgers athletics for NJ Advance Media, the content company for NJ.com and The Star-Ledger. The dean of the Rutgers football beat, Keith covered thousands of games and big-picture topics surrounding the state university’s athletics program since 2000.

Keith recently garnered two national awards from the Associated Press Sports Editors for his investigative reporting. Two years ago, the National Sports Media Association named Keith New Jersey’s best sportswriter. He was named NJ Advance Media Reporter of the Year in 2018.

Keith transitioned in 2022 from sports to news, where as an investigative report he focuses on government, public accountability, education, environmental issues and other topics for NJ Advance Media while still keeping an eye on Rutgers athletics.

Keith has family roots in several Middlesex County towns and graduated from Cedar Ridge High School in Old Bridge, making him and Jerry crosstown rivals.

Keith is involved in several community service initiatives in his Monmouth County community, including events involving recreation, the environment, and school volunteer programs.

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