5 minutes with "48 Hours'" Senior Executive Producer Susan Zirinsky

Susan Zirinsky - a legend and driving force in the broadcast news industry - has been a part of CBS News for 43 years. In 1972, Zirinsky started off as a part-time production clerk at the Washington, D.C. Bureau. Since then, she has gone on to serve in several capacities for CBS News, including her current position as Senior Executive Producer for "48 Hours."

"Z," as Zirinsky is fondly called around the office, starts her day before the crack of dawn. By 5 a.m. she is up and looking through news headlines of the day. Then, she's out the door and headed to her morning workout. In Z's own words, she's a "hard news harlot."

While "48 Hours" doesn't depend heavily on breaking news headlines, Zirinsky is no stranger to hard news. Prior to "48 Hours," Z worked for the "Evening News with Dan Rather" rose from producer to senior broadcast producer. Additionally, she has worked on over 17 specials and documentaries for CBS News, including an award-winning documentary on the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

But Zirinsky's impact on the news reaches beyond CBS News -- and can be seen through the film "Broadcast News." Holly Hunter's character was based on the upbeat Zirinsky. Also, in 2013, the New York Festivals International Television & Film Awards presented Zirinsky with the Lifetime Achievement Award.

While Zirinsky has already won many awards, she looks forward to continuing her legacy. The experience and determination Z brings to the table everyday is instrumental to CBS News' mission to do original reporting.