I also often ask my guests about what they consider to be their invisible weaknesses and shortcomings. I do this because these are the characteristics that define us no less than our strengths. What we feel sets us apart from other people is often the thing that shapes us as individuals. This may be especially true of writers and actors, many of whom first started to develop their observational skills as a result of being sidelined from typical childhood or adolescent activities because of an infirmity or a feeling of not fitting in. Or so I’ve come to believe from talking to so many writers and actors over the years.

~ Terry Gross

Terry Gross Actors Artists Childhood Trauma Defining Moments Defining Yourself Individuality Interview Interviewing Interviews Introspection Journalism Loneliness Not Fitting In Outcasts Personal Development Self Awareness Shortcomings Weaknesses What Makes Us Who We Are What Shapes Us Writers

Anyone who agrees to be interviewed must decide where to draw the line between what is public and what is private. But the line can shift, depending on who is asking the questions. What puts someone on guard isn't necessarily the fear of being 'found out.' It sometimes is just the fear of being misunderstood.

~ Terry Gross

Terry Gross Questions Misunderstood