Two Writers Slinging Yang

On chronicling the exploits of the NBA's most physical team; on efforts to speak with Patrick Ewing and John Starks; on saying no and no to a topic—then yes.

On working in sex and also chronicling the world of the sex worker; on why the Washington Post insisted she use her real name in a byline; on whether saying, "I love you, too" to a client is kosher; on how one becomes a sex worker; on chronicling the trials of a trans child.

On athletes engaging with the media and deciding which reporters are trustworthy; on the myriad give-and-take options between scribes and jocks; on why nearly all professional football players are—ultimately—meat and what it's like to walk away from the sport.

On digging and digging and digging into a subject until there's nothing left to dig; on an eye-opening investigation into the Arizona Coyotes; on the art of the cold call; on the perils and/or advantages of interviewing someone over beers.

On how Mark's Barry Bonds book brought him glory, while my Barry Bonds brought bought me Dollar Store space; on how the entire Balco investigation commenced; on the non-joys of cold calling subjects.

On how her husband's ALS diagnosis led to catharsis via podcast; on listening to someone's pain without interruption or judgement; on why expressing one's feelings to a wide audience is so important.

On watching Allen Iverson cry and writing about it; on whether it's OK to think of a readership's makeup and cater toward it; on the hip-hop stylings of the late DMX. 

On how to conduct the perfect interview; on why Dennis Quaid was such a nightmarish pain in the ass; on Reggie Jackson and Joe Torre and having people open up when they'd rather not open up; on beginning as a New York beat writer.

On how he still finds joy and passion out of a Michigan-Michigan state football game; on how living around the world has shaped his appreciation of the job; on an angry Rick Pitino and the rise and fall of The National.