Episode Details

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

Co-Founder and President of Allen Media Group's HBCU GO, discusses his recent Cable Hall of Fame induction, the growth of HBCU GO, and his vision for expanding awareness of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The conversation explores his media career, relationships with industry pioneers Bob Johnson and Byron Allen, the cultural significance of HBCUs, and the opportunities surrounding HBCU sports and storytelling.

Purpose of the Interview

The interview was designed to:

• Celebrate Curtis Symonds' induction into the Cable Hall of Fame.
• Discuss the mission, growth, and future of HBCU GO.
• Highlight the educational, cultural, and economic importance of HBCUs.
• Promote HBCU football programming and upcoming events.
• Encourage greater corporate and community support for HBCU institutions and programming.

Key Takeaways 1. Hall of Fame Recognition Reflects a Lifetime Career in Media

Symonds described his Cable Hall of Fame induction as one of the most important moments of his career, particularly because BET founder Bob Johnson introduced him. He credited Johnson with teaching him how to build relationships, partnerships, and successful media businesses.

Key Insight:

Success in media is built on long-term relationships, trust, and vision.

2. HBCU GO Was Created to Fill an Exposure Gap

Symonds launched HBCU GO because he believed HBCUs were not receiving the visibility they deserved despite their significant impact on Black education and leadership.

Key Insight:

HBCU GO was founded not merely as a sports platform, but as a movement to elevate awareness of HBCU history, legacy, and value.

3. The Long-Term Goal Is Storytelling

While football broadcasts drive viewership, Symonds sees storytelling as the future of the network.

Future content will focus on:

• Student achievements
• Alumni success stories
• Educational excellence
• HBCU culture and traditions
• Institutional history
• Marching bands and performing arts

Key Insight:

Sports are the entry point; storytelling is the long-term strategy.

4. HBCUs Produce Leaders Across America

McDonald highlighted how HBCUs produce large numbers of Black professionals in areas such as:

• Education
• Medicine
• Dentistry
• Law
• Public service
• STEM careers

Both hosts agreed that these achievements deserve more public attention.

Key Insight:

The academic success of HBCUs is often overshadowed by sports and entertainment.

5. HBCUs Create a Strong Sense of Belonging

Symonds emphasized that students at HBCUs experience a