Introduction
Elizabeth Kate Claman, known professionally as Liz Claman, was born on December 12, 1963. Growing up in Beverly Hills, California, Claman was the daughter of Dr. Morris Claman, a prominent urologist, and June Beverly Claman, an actress. Her early exposure to both the medical and entertainment fields provided her with a unique perspective on life. Claman attended Phillips Academy in Andover, Massachusetts, a prestigious preparatory school, where she honed her academic and extracurricular skills. She later graduated from the University of California, Berkeley, with a degree in French language. This diverse educational background laid a solid foundation for her future career in journalism.
Early Career and Breakthrough
Claman's broadcasting career began at WSYX-TV in Columbus, Ohio, where she worked as a production assistant. Her talent quickly propelled her to on-air roles, and she soon moved to KCBS-TV in Los Angeles as a reporter and weekend anchor. Her big break came when she joined CNBC in 1998. At CNBC, Claman co-anchored the popular morning program Morning Call and later hosted Wake Up Call. These roles allowed her to develop her distinct style of financial reporting, characterized by clarity and accessibility.
Rise to Prominence at CNBC
During her tenure at CNBC, Claman also co-anchored Market Watch and hosted the newsmagazine program Cover to Cover. These programs were instrumental in establishing her reputation as a trusted financial journalist. One of her notable achievements was her coverage of the dot-com bubble in the late 1990s and early 2000s, where she provided insightful analysis and interviews with key industry figures. Her ability to explain complex financial concepts in simple terms made her a favorite among viewers.
Transition to Fox Business Network
In 2007, Claman made a significant career move by joining the Fox Business Network (FBN). This transition marked a new chapter in her career, as she took on the role of anchor for The Claman Countdown, a weekday program that focuses on the final hour of trading on Wall Street. The show has become a staple for investors looking for the latest market updates and expert analysis. Under her leadership, The Claman Countdown has consistently delivered high ratings and has become one of FBN's flagship programs.
Exclusive Insights and Interviews
Claman's career is distinguished by her ability to secure exclusive interviews with influential figures in the financial world. She has interviewed Warren Buffett, the CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, multiple times, providing viewers with rare insights into the mind of one of the world's most successful investors. Her interviews with other financial luminaries, such as Jamie Dimon of JPMorgan Chase and Mary Barra of General Motors, have also garnered widespread acclaim.
Advocacy and Philanthropy
Beyond her professional achievements, Claman is known for her advocacy and philanthropic efforts. She is a strong supporter of various charitable organizations, including the American Heart Association and Building Homes for Heroes, which provides mortgage-free homes to injured veterans. Her dedication to giving back to the community reflects her belief in the importance of using her platform for positive change.
Personal Life and Interests
Despite her busy career, Claman places a high value on her personal life. She is married to Jeff Kepnes, a senior executive producer at NBC News, and they have two children. The family's residence in Edgewater, New Jersey, offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of New York City. Claman is also an accomplished athlete, having completed several marathons and triathlons. Her commitment to fitness is evident in her disciplined approach to both her personal and professional life.
Financial Impact and Legacy
Claman's impact on financial journalism is significant, with her programs influencing millions of viewers and investors. According to a 2019 Nielsen report, The Claman Countdown consistently ranks among the top financial news shows, with an average of 150,000 viewers per episode. Her ability to break down complex financial news into understandable segments has made her a trusted source for market analysis.
Conclusion
Liz Claman's journey from a production assistant to a leading financial journalist is a testament to her talent, dedication, and passion for the industry. Her insightful reporting, exclusive interviews, and commitment to philanthropy have solidified her legacy as a trailblazer in financial journalism. As she continues to inform and inspire viewers, Claman's influence on the world of finance remains profound and enduring.
