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Global News Broadcaster Susan Hay Leans into Soulfulness With Inspirational Books
From ‘Chicken Little’ to Martha Beck’s ‘The Way of Integrity’ and Michelle Obama’s ‘Becoming,' the TV host shares her faves / BY Shinan Govani / April 30th, 2024
Seinfeld had just hit television. So, too, The Simpsons. In Toronto, in 1989: an ebullient new face popped up in the world of TV news. Susan Hay, a force of nature ever since – and still part of the Global News family – is celebrating her 35th anniversary this year. Having interviewed everyone from Elton John to Idris Elba, and profiling inspirational people and organizations throughout the GTA as the host and producer of Making a Difference, the newscaster was also a beloved host of the annual Santa Claus Parade in Toronto for 15 consecutive Christmases. (Psssst: Did you know she is also the longest-running Cannon Doll in The National Ballet of Canada’s annual production of The Nutcracker?)
Always ready with a smile, and a true optimist at heart, her reading life often leans toward reflection. Hay filled us in on what keeps her motivated on the book front.
What’s the best book you’ve read this year?
I’ve always loved books from the time I was a little girl, and my parents would read to me. My first book, Chicken Little, a fable about a little chicken who, though the sky was falling, fostered my love for reading. Since then, I’ve always had a “to-read list.” On the list this year was The Way of Integrity, written by Martha Beck, a bestselling author, life coach and speaker. The book is about seeking truth and authenticity on the road to a more fulfilled life.
What book can’t you wait to dive into?
I’ve always been intrigued by autobiographies, which is why I cannot wait to dive into Michelle Obama’s Becoming. A compelling memoir written with grace, humour and honesty, Obama reveals her triumphs and disappointments, both personally and professionally. I’m looking forward to curling up with this one at the cottage this summer.
What’s your favourite book of all time?
I have many favourites, like Gary Zukav’s The Seat of the Soul. However, the one that has resonated with me the most is Real Love, the truth about finding unconditional love and fulfilling relationships, written by Dr. Greg Baer. In this book, Dr. Baer shares his findings when it comes to successful relationships in all forms (friends, colleagues and life partners) and the difference between imitation and authentic love. I’ve suggested this book to many friends.
What book completely changed your life?
I would have to say not one, but many, of Dr. Wayne Dyer’s books have made a difference in my life, beginning with the first book I read, 10 Secrets for Success and Inner Peace. Dyer talks about having a mind that is open to everything and attached to nothing, and believing that you are what you have envisioned yourself to be. He is an amazing writer, speaker and a true inspiration in the area of self-development.
If you could have dinner with any author, living or deceased, who would it be?
Hands down, Dr. Wayne Dyer, the American self-help author and motivational speaker with a doctorate in counselling psychology. I believe books can help to shape our lives and bring comfort to us, and his books did that for me. Sadly, Dyer passed away in August of 2015 at the age of 75.