In this installment of our Meet the Media series, we’re learning about the many adventures of a communications professional who’s explored many industries and states! Meet Chris Talbott, a freelance writer and editor with a knack for finding and telling sensational stories wherever he goes. Learn more about him below!
How did you find yourself in your current role?
After 25 years at newspapers and at the Associated Press, I opened my own boutique words-for-hire business about seven years ago in Nashville, where I was focused on the music industry. Since moving to Seattle two years ago with my family, I’ve primarily written entertainment and culture stories for The Seattle Times and covered the Mariners part-time for the AP while working on book and television projects.
Which of your stories are you most proud of?
I profiled Willie Nelson on his 80th birthday – I’ve been on the bus three times! – and spent time with Glen Campbell and his family after his Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Pete Seeger once sang to me. I’ve been on the field at a college football national championship and covered the Iditarod and the Grammys. Those all stick out.
What is your favorite thing about your job?
The variety. I meet new people (who are almost always nice) and learn about new things every day.
What is your interview style?
Conversational. I do not script questions; the best interviews are always conversations.
What do you look for in a story?
Humor, emotion and the chance to connect.
What is your day like at your job?
I sit in a chair in front of a computer. All. Day. Long. Sometimes I talk on the phone.
Who do you most look up to in the journalism industry?
All the people whose names do not appear on the byline; the people behind the scenes who edit the copy, write the headlines, design the pages, push the button and save you from yourself day after day.
What is your favorite news outlet?
We live in a great news town and I hope people recognize that and support their local news, no matter how they consume it.
Fill in the blank:
a. If I am not working, I am … working – the gig economy is tough, y’all.
b. If I could interview anyone, it would be … Cormac McCarthy is the first name that popped into mind.
c. My favorite thing about Seattle is … the energy, the creativity and the view. This place is amazing.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Comic books. I have so many comic books.
Interested in sharing your work through our Meet the Media series? Email us here.