Kai Wright is an excellent host Stateside with Kai and Carter beyond the Watcher. But Wright has been bringing his unique insight to audiences for years. He is also a host Notes From America, The United States of Anxietyagain It is indivisible. He is a Peabody Award-winning journalist who has profiled powerful men, explored what it means to be an American, and covered the AIDS epidemic.
When he’s not delving into sex, race, and politics, he gardens, listens to John Coltrane, and steadfastly refuses to buy a new phone. Wright was kind enough to give us a glimpse into her daily routine, how she relaxes, and offer some simple but powerful advice.
What is your most important tool?
Which one is most appreciated?
A carriage. Seriously, though. Throw in enough dirt and rocks, and you’ll enjoy the smart utility of this basic design.
What’s one thing you wish you could change about your phone?
I wish I had bought one smartphone and never bought another one again, forever. Why does it have to remain inactive? (Of course, I haven’t bought a new phone in I don’t know how many years; I just take my partner’s hand. So I’m complaining about the ridiculous system.)
How many tabs do you have open right now?
In the window I’m using right now, I have 10 tabs open. Yes, this is a reasonable number, thank you. I have 11 other windows open, though, and I can’t vouch for what’s in them.
What’s the most disappointing gadget you’ve ever owned?
I won’t mention the names of the products, but I promise it will make the coffee machine more difficult. I try to get caffeine so I can be active. I don’t want an engineering challenge.
What is one thing you wish you could create?
I wish I had thought of The Memory Palace – which is still, to me, the best podcasting. Short, sweet, profound human histories of our world. One person, telling you a well-written story.
What creation are you proud of?
Can I say my whole garden, all of it? It’s an exercise in constant learning and applying knowledge and trying again, and I hear from veteran gardeners that you never get it. It’s complete.
What is the best advice you ever received?
Live a righteous life. That is, try your best to say on your own truth, and make decisions accordingly.
What do you do when you feel stuck?
Listen to John Coltrane’s records.
What was the last piece of physical media you purchased?
What would be the tagline of your biopic?
“What happened was…”
What was the last GIF or meme you used?
