The Best Strangers in the World

1. Journalism as a Journey: From Fargo to the World Stage

I became a public speaker in the first grade. In Fargo, North Dakota, my older brother and I were the only Jewish kids at our elementary school, and so, every year at Christmastime, he and I would go from classroom to classroom with a menorah and a dreidel, explaining to children descended from Scandinavian immigrants what Hanukkah was.

Early roots of storytelling. Ari Shapiro's journey into journalism began in an unlikely place: Fargo, North Dakota. As one of the only Jewish children in his school, he found himself explaining Hanukkah to his classmates, unknowingly honing his skills as a storyteller and cultural ambassador.

From local to global. This early experience laid the foundation for Shapiro's career, which took him from NPR intern to White House correspondent, and eventually to hosting All Things Considered. His ability to make the foreign seem less strange, cultivated in those childhood classrooms, became a hallmark of his reporting style.

2. The Power of Curiosity: Nature Boy's Lessons for Life and Reporting

I came to understand the difference between the gray wings of an urban scrub jay and the black mohawk of a woodland Steller's jay. And when kids at school would point out the window at a "blue jay," I would inform them that blue jays were not a West Coast species.

Curiosity as a driving force. Shapiro's childhood experiences in nature, guided by his parents' encouragement to explore and learn, instilled in him a deep-seated curiosity about the world. This curiosity became a fundamental trait in his approach to journalism.

Translating curiosity to journalism. The skills Shapiro developed observing nature - patience, attention to detail, and the ability to discern subtle differences - translated directly to his work as a reporter. His ability to find interesting stories in unexpected places and to see the world through fresh eyes became defining characteristics of his journalism.

3. Navigating Identity: Being Jewish, Gay, and a Journalist

I guess today my fashion choices would be labeled "gender nonconforming," but that wasn't a term we knew. Nobody around me identified as queer; calling yourself gay seemed radical enough.

Embracing multiple identities. Shapiro's journey of self-discovery as a gay Jewish man in a predominantly Christian, heteronormative environment shaped his perspective on the world. This unique lens allowed him to approach stories with empathy and understanding for those who feel like outsiders.

Balancing personal and professional. As a journalist, Shapiro had to navigate the complexities of maintaining objectivity while also being true to his identity. This tension became particularly evident in his coverage of issues like same-sex marriage and conflicts in the Middle East, where his personal experiences informed his reporting without compromising his journalistic integrity.

4. The Art of Storytelling: Finding Humanity in Global Crises

I decided it wasn't enough to parachute in for a few days. I needed to find someone whose story I could tell in its entirety, through to its conclusion—no matter the ending. Someone whose journey I could follow for as long as it lasted.

Humanizing complex issues. Shapiro's approach to covering the Syrian refugee crisis exemplifies his commitment to telling human stories within larger global events. By following individuals like Monzer Omar over extended periods, he brought the refugee experience to life for his listeners.

Building connections across cultures. Through his reporting, Shapiro demonstrated the power of storytelling to bridge cultural divides. His ability to find relatable moments - like refugees searching for Wi-Fi - helped listeners connect with experiences far removed from their own lives.

5. Breaking Boundaries: Balancing Journalism and Performance

I don't have to glance over my shoulder to make sure it's true; I can just look down at the page.

Dual passions. Shapiro's career uniquely blends journalism and performance, from his work with NPR to his performances with Pink Martini. This duality allows him to explore different ways of connecting with audiences and telling stories.

Complementary skills. His experience in performance enhances his journalism, bringing a sense of timing and engaging delivery to his radio work. Conversely, his journalistic background informs his musical performances, adding depth and context to the stories he tells through song.

6. The Best Strangers in the World: Connecting Through Empathy

"I think so much of our attention has been placed on trying to identify what is wrong. I want to create work that is about making the world that I want, as opposed to commenting on the world that is."

Radical empathy. Shapiro's experiences with the radical faeries and his encounters with people from all walks of life have shaped his approach to storytelling. He seeks to understand and connect with others, even those with vastly different experiences or viewpoints.

Creating positive change. Through his work, Shapiro strives not just to report on the world as it is, but to imagine and help create a better world. This approach is evident in his choice of stories and the way he tells them, always seeking to find the humanity in even the most challenging situations.

7. Embracing Vulnerability: From Sweating on Stage to Singing with Stars

I sweat like a goddamn snowman in heat.

Overcoming insecurities. Shapiro's candid discussion of his excessive sweating serves as a metaphor for embracing vulnerability. Despite his successes, he remains open about his struggles and imperfections.

Authenticity in performance. This vulnerability extends to his performances, both as a journalist and a singer. By being open about his fears and challenges, Shapiro creates a more authentic connection with his audience, whether they're listening to him on the radio or watching him perform on stage.

8. The Impact of Literature: How Fiction Shapes Our Understanding

"Journalism and nonfiction provide us answers," Sainz Borgo told me, "but I think fiction provides us questions."

The power of storytelling. Shapiro's deep appreciation for literature and its ability to provide insight into the human condition informs his approach to journalism. He recognizes that sometimes fiction can reveal truths about the world that straight reporting cannot.

Bridging divides through stories. By incorporating insights from literature into his journalism, Shapiro creates a richer, more nuanced understanding of complex issues. This approach helps his audience connect with stories and people they might otherwise find foreign or inaccessible.

9. Och and Oy: Bridging Divides Through Friendship and Performance

We had both spent our lives pursuing the same values: empathy, connection, and listening. We had devoted our careers to telling stories in hopes of helping people better understand the world and one another.

Unexpected collaborations. Shapiro's partnership with Alan Cumming in creating "Och and Oy" demonstrates the power of bringing together diverse talents and perspectives. Their show blends entertainment with thoughtful dialogue, creating a unique platform for connection and understanding.

The transformative power of performance. Through "Och and Oy," Shapiro explores new ways of connecting with audiences, combining his journalistic instincts with the immediacy and emotion of live performance. This synthesis represents a culmination of his career-long efforts to bridge divides and foster empathy through storytelling.

Last updated: January 23, 2025