The Art of the Interview: Wright Thompson Shares Secrets to Getting High-Profile Athletes to Open Up

Wright Thompson, the author of "The Cost of These Dreams," recently shared his unique approach to interviewing high-profile athletes during an appearance on the popular "Pardon My Take" podcast. Thompson, known for his in-depth profiles of sports figures, revealed strategies that go beyond typical interview techniques. He emphasizes the importance of building trust and finding common ground, stating, "You want to ingratiate yourself where you can get their trust." His experiences interviewing individuals like Michael Jordan, Tiger Woods, and Jayson Tatum highlight the challenges of gaining access and the rewards of uncovering compelling stories. Thompson's advice offers valuable lessons for aspiring journalists and anyone interested in the art of interviewing. The podcast hosts also discussed the inherent challenges of interviewing such high-profile individuals, noting that "it doesn't always work." This emphasizes the human element of the process and the importance of adaptability and persistence in the pursuit of compelling narratives.