Aaron Henkin on How to Interview Neighbors and Strangers

Summary

In the WYPR studios, Aaron Henkin interviews Nate Couser in an unconventional way, turning to the camera to share his thoughts in real-time. They discuss Aaron's recording gear preferences, the importance of comfort and transparency in interviews, and active listening. Nate shares his journey from theater to radio, offering insights on interviewing and his memorable experiences, including one with 'Thelma' from Good Times. The conversation explores the art of storytelling in interviews and the value of narrative arcs.

Takeaways

• 🎤 Aaron Henkin conducts an interview with Nate Couser, providing real-time commentary to viewers on his thought process as an interviewer.
• 🤔 The interview aims to offer insights into active listening and coaching a narrative arc during interviews.
• 📻 Nate is an actor, radio personality, jewelry designer, and all-around artist from Baltimore, Maryland.
• 🎧 Aaron discusses his portable recording gear, emphasizing that the best gear is what one is comfortable and proficient with.
• 🎥 Aaron highlights the importance of creating a comfortable environment for the interviewee to facilitate a more natural conversation.
• 🎙️ Nate shares his experience transitioning from stage acting to radio hosting, noting the challenges and growth he experienced.
• 📡 Aaron stresses the significance of understanding one's interview subject and the value of establishing a connection before going live.
• 🎬 The interview showcases storytelling techniques in radio, such as creating a narrative arc and using directorial language to guide the conversation.
• 📼 Aaron discusses the editing process, where he can rearrange the order of dialogue to create a more engaging and coherent story.
• 📝 Nate recounts his most memorable interview, which was with Bernadette Stanis from 'Good Times,' illustrating the impact of pop culture on his career.
• ⏭️ Aaron advises on wrapping up interviews with reflective questions to capture the interviewee's growth and learnings.

Q & A

What is the unique approach Aaron Henkin is taking in this interview?

Aaron Henkin is conducting an interview with Nate Couser while turning to the camera to provide real-time commentary on his thought process as an interviewer, offering a tutorial on active listening and narrative coaching.

What type of gear does Aaron Henkin typically use for his recordings?

Aaron Henkin uses portable recording gear including an Audiotechnica shotgun mic, a pair of headphones, and a Marantz PMD661 portable recorder.

Why did Nate Couser transition from theater to radio?

Nate Couser transitioned from theater to radio because he wasn't getting the roles he wanted and found the theater community in Baltimore not diverse enough, leading him to reenergize and make different career choices.

What is the name of Nate Couser's radio show and what is its format?

Nate Couser's radio show is called 'The Artist Exchange Radio Show'. It airs every Friday at seven and every Saturday at two, where he interviews artists, entrepreneurs, and community leaders.

What was Nate Couser's most memorable interview on his radio show?

Nate Couser's most memorable interview was with Bernadette Stanis, who played Thelma from the TV show 'Good Times', which was a significant moment as she was his first crush.

What advice does Nate Couser give to his 17-year-old self based on his radio experience?

Nate Couser advises his 17-year-old self to not be afraid to try different things, explore what scares him, and to not be afraid to make mistakes.

How does Aaron Henkin describe the importance of knowing one's recording gear?

Aaron Henkin emphasizes that the best gear is what one knows how to use and is comfortable with, similar to how a photographer would choose a camera they are skilled with.

What is the role of the interviewer in creating a narrative arc during an interview, according to Aaron Henkin?

Aaron Henkin suggests that the interviewer should act as a 'story coach', helping the interviewee articulate their story by asking guiding questions and using directorial language to shape the narrative.

What is the significance of the location of the interview in terms of audio quality?

The interview takes place in a soundproof room at WYPR studios, which is ideal for audio control and quality, minimizing external disturbances.

How does Nate Couser handle nervousness or discomfort of guests on his radio show?

Nate Couser deals with nervous guests by talking to them before they go live, getting them comfortable, and engaging with them between breaks to ease them into the conversation.

What is the moral of Nate Couser's story according to his interview?

The moral of Nate Couser's story is to live life on purpose, without fear, doubt, or hesitation.