Best Of The Conversation: Feature Interviews

We talk to a lot of fascinating people on The Conversation: comedians, journalists, politicians, ex-felons, librarians, writers and even pirates. Today, we rebroadcast three interviews with some amazing individuals who have overcome hard times to pursue their dreams.

Nancy Pearl

You've heard librarian Nancy Pearl on the radio. She shares her picks for great books and stories on Morning Edition and KUOW's Weekday with Steve Scher. But what's Nancy Pearl's story? Ross Reynolds talks to her about why she became a librarian and what it’s like to have her own action figure.

Cheryl Strayed

After losing her mother and ending her marriage, Cheryl Strayed found herself using heroin. In an effort to both escape where she was and find out who she was, she decided to hike from the Mojave Desert to the Bridge of the Gods on the Columbia River. She sits down with Ross Reynolds and discusses her journey.

Damien Echols

Nineteen years ago three teenagers were arrested and later convicted in the murder of three 8-year-old boys. One of the men testified Damien Echols was the ringleader. But new evidence shows gross errors and misrepresentation by prosecutors in the case, and last August the "West Memphis Three" walked free. Ross Reynolds interviews Damien Echols about his new memoir.