Roger Schawinski: "It ain't over till it's over"
He is an icon of the Swiss media landscape: Roger Schawinski, the man who founded Radio 24, Tele Züri, and Radio 1, recently celebrated his 80th birthday—and has no plans to retire anytime soon. He spoke about this with Reto Lipp on the video podcast «ComSumCast.».
What drives someone like him when others have long since retired? Schawinski can look back on an unparalleled career. From editor-in-chief of the newspaper "Tat" to media entrepreneur, from radio pirate to fighter against media monopolies: time and again he has broken new ground, taken on challenges and seized opportunities - even when the prospects of success seemed slim. His credo so far, inspired by Jimmy Cliff: "You can get it if you really want". And his new motto in life: "It ain't over till it's over", loosely based on Lenny Kravitz.
Role model with attitude
In a podcast interview with SRF business editor Reto Lipp, Schawinski talks openly about getting older, the role of the baby boomer generation and his motivation to remain active in old age. For him, enjoying life until 100 is not an empty promise, but a lived reality. As a role model for older people, he defends baby boomers against sweeping criticism and emphasizes their responsibility to get involved in society.
Commitment instead of a golf course
Why is he still fighting for a new radio station in Graubünden at the age of 80? The golf course is too boring for him - and the fear of insignificance too great. Schawinski sees it as his duty to fight against regional media monopolies, even if the road to court is rocky and the chances of success seem slim. For him, this is not a personal campaign, but a commitment to media diversity and democracy.
Reflection and outlook
Schawinski talks openly about his humble roots, which have always driven him to be better than others. He reflects on successes and defeats, on the importance of radio in the age of streaming and podcasts - and on dealing with death. His legacy: creating memories, taking responsibility and staying curious.
Fit in the head - and young at heart
How do you stay physically and mentally fit at 80? Schawinski's answer: stay active, seek out challenges and enjoy life. His tip for a fulfilling life in old age: never stop asking questions, never stop getting involved - and always remain open to new things.
The ComSumCast is a joint production of ZPV (Zürcher Presseverein) and ZPRG (Zürcher PR-Gesellschaft). A new episode of the audio and video podcast, produced by Christoph Soltmannowski at the Tablecast Videopodcast Factory, is released every two months.
