To the majority around the world, Nicholas Thompson is known as an editor, artificial intelligence enthusiast, or something of a LinkedIn influencer. However, the former WIRED editor-in-chief and current CEO of The Atlantic is often better known to colleagues as guy who runs to the office.
Thompson is released on Tuesday Running terrain: father, son and the simplest sport. As the title suggests, this is a book about his involvement in running – Thompson runs a ridiculously brisk marathon and holds the American 50 km record in the 45-49 age group. Ultimately, however, the book explores the complicated relationship between athlete Thompson and his father, who first took him running when he was just 5 years venerable. Technology enthusiasts will, of course, also find something for themselves: Running area is packed with science-backed training tips and documents Thompson’s experience training with elite Nike trainers.
In this week’s episode Great interviewI talked to Thompson (who was also my first boss; he hired me as an intern at WIRED in 2008) about his book, the interconnection between running and addiction, and what he thinks artificial intelligence can do for runners AND for writers.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
KATIE DRUMMOND: Nick Thompson, hello Great interview.
NICHOLAS THOMPSON: Thank you, Katie. It’s a great pleasure to be with you at Condé Nast at WIRED. It’s been a while. I loved riding those elevators. I love seeing you as editor-in-chief. That’s a plus.
It’s so nice. I’m excited you’re here. We’ll start this conversation the same way we start all conversations, with a little warm-up and a few quick questions.
Fire up.
In honor of your up-to-date book, Running areaI’ll make them completely themed. With apologies to our listeners… are you ready?
That means if your listeners don’t want to hear about running…
… now would be the time to leave.
But let’s go.
Cross country or track running?
Trail running.
Running with music or in silence?
Silence.
The worst running injury you’ve ever had.
The Achilles tendon does capooch in ultra.
The most false myth about running. The one you wish people would stop talking to you about.
Before the marathon, you just need to run 20 miles.