Welcome to a brand new episode of Take Off Your Shoes with my guest Nick Thompson.
This was not the most typical episode, but it was one I’ve been looking forward to recording for a long time.
To some of you, this Nick may be a new name because while he’s an incredibly accomplished runner, he’s better known as the CEO of The Atlantic. If you’re wondering how he could have had the time to come onto my show, listen until the end of the episode, where I actually ask him this exact question.
The thing that stuck with me most after our conversation was what he said about the importance of truly caring about the thing that you’re doing in the moment, but once it’s done, moving on. He quoted, “On to Cincinnati.” A truly important skill to learn, and one of those things that is much easier said than done.
We talked about how, in life, it’s hard to get neat answers to things, and how some questions will remain unanswered. This is true for the questions he’d like answered about his father’s life. The same is also true of his own motivations at times, and how complicated they can be to articulate.
While this may be a step outside of the ultra runners I’ve been having as guests, I’m sure you’ll enjoy this conversation, Nick’s self-reflection, and the way he conveys his emotions and thoughts in and around running and, of course, life.
Thank you, Nick, for your time and for our conversation.
It's been a very hectic, but beautiful summer, which is why I put the podcast on hiatus for a bit. I'm hoping to be back with a more regular program soon enoug h and I genuinely appreciate each and every one of you for listening.
Send me a DM for your thoughts and next guest ideas on Instagram
Follow Nick on Instagram
Nick's memoir: The Running Ground
Check the show's budding Youtube channel!