New York — Veteran journalist Lester Holt is stepping into a new role as he prepares to launch his podcast, “Before & After with Lester Holt,” premiering on September 14. The project, which unfolds under the Dateline Originals banner, focuses on pivotal moments that drastically alter lives, underscoring the personal stories behind headlines. The podcast will feature notable guests, including former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick and actress Gabby Giffords, offering listeners intimate insights into the extraordinary challenges faced by these individuals.
In a recent discussion, Holt expressed his enthusiasm for this new venture, stating that he aims to develop his storytelling skills in this format. “I wanted to create and exercise these new news muscles,” he remarked, emphasizing the importance of narrative in journalism. Listeners can access the podcast through Dateline Premium, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify, where subscribers will receive early episodes.
Holt, who anchored “NBC Nightly News” for a decade before stepping down in May 2025, continues to play a significant role at NBC News. He recently completed filming an hour-long documentary for “Dateline,” commemorating the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks. This project revisits the stories of New Yorkers captured by NBC News on that fateful day, reflecting on how the events transformed lives.
In a memo to colleagues announcing his departure from the evening news desk, Holt expressed gratitude for the opportunity he has had to serve viewers over the years. He conveyed his feelings of loss for the team he worked with and the audience he connected with nightly. His successor, Tom Llamas, assumed the anchoring duties following Holt’s last broadcast in May 2025.
As he transitions to his new role full time with “Dateline,” Holt has reflected on his journalism journey. He began his career in radio at a young age, gradually making his way to television news, where he honed his craft over the decades. Holt first joined NBC News in 2000, gaining prominence through his work on “Weekend TODAY” before becoming the principal anchor of “Dateline” in 2011.
Throughout his tenure, Holt reported on significant national and international events, including the rise of Donald Trump, the COVID-19 pandemic, and conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. His interviews with key political figures have often influenced national discussions, showcasing his ability to tackle critical topics with depth and compassion.
As “Dateline” enters its 35th season, Holt aims to deepen the investigative nature of its storytelling with longer episodes that delve into complex narratives. “Our goal is to make each episode not just informative but also compelling,” he stated, ensuring that audience engagement remains a priority.
Beyond high-stakes reporting, Holt has also dedicated efforts to educating younger audiences. He co-anchored “Nightly News: Kids Edition,” demonstrating his commitment to broadening the horizons of news consumption for future generations. This initiative earned acclaim and highlighted his versatility in reaching diverse demographics.
Looking to the future, Holt’s new podcast represents a shift from breaking news coverage to exploring the quieter, more personal stories that resonate deeply with individuals. In his career, he has navigated through chaos, and now, he is turning his focus to the single moments that irrevocably change lives—a compelling testament to the power of storytelling in journalism. Through “Before & After,” Holt aspires to foster connections with audiences by sharing poignant personal narratives that often go unnoticed amid the tumult of daily news.