InterVIEWing

Interviewing is often viewed through the lens of high-stakes pressure, but when approached with curiosity, it transforms into one of the most rewarding forms of human connection.

On my radio show, I have the opportunity to interview civic leaders every single day.

At its core, an interview is a guided discovery. For the interviewer, it’s an educational masterclass; you gain a front-row seat to someone else’s expertise, uncovering "hidden gems" of knowledge that a textbook cannot provide.

For me, the process is also surprisingly fun. Every day it's something different. It’s a social puzzle where active listening and follow-up questions turn a standard Q&A into a dynamic conversation. You aren't just collecting facts; you’re building rapport and practicing empathy. For the interviewee, it’s a rare moment of reflection, allowing them to synthesize their own experiences into meaningful stories. Podcasters know what I'm talking about.

Whether you are a student, a journalist, or a curious neighbor, interviewing sharpens your critical thinking and communication skills. It turns every stranger into a potential teacher, making the world feel a little smaller and much more fascinating. And it can be face-to-face, via Zoom, or over the phone. You really can put the VIEW in interview.