Liz Cook: Kansas City-based food writer

Jeff Schultz: Retired Athletic columnist, AJC and LA Daily News scribe

On surviving for decades in a brutal business. On what modern reporters lack in interviewing skills. On Eric Dickerson's shoes and Chipper Jones memories. On retirement.

Kevin Tankersley: Baylor University journalism professor and veteran writer

On how to teach writing in 2026. On whether bad scribes can become good scribes. On the legend of Biscuits O'Bryan. On why Waco should be your next vacation destination.

Alan Shipnuck: Author, "Rory: The Heartache and Triumph of Golf's Most Human Superstar"

On writing a biography without the help of the protagonist. On living life in a tight sport with many bruised feelings. On whether people still understand reporting. On golf.

Liz Cook: Kansas City-based food writer

On how influencers are corrupting reviews. On the joy of a delicious meal. On whether her city is corrupted by a celebrity restaurant. On Substack life.

Charles Pierce: Esquire political blogger

On how the stupidity of this administration might save America. On the continued joy of the written word. On life at The National. On the awfulness of J.D. Vance.