Choose to be Curious Ep. #289: Getting to the Heart: Curiosity & Ghost Writing, with Laura Zigman
Jul 23, 2025
Laura Zigman, a seasoned author and ghostwriter, dives into the art of capturing authentic voices in storytelling. She emphasizes the delicate balance between curiosity and nosiness, sharing anecdotes about the ethics of interviewing. Highlighting the trust essential in her work, Zigman discusses how compassion and sensitivity pave the way for true storytelling. The conversation also explores the transformative power of curiosity in creative processes, using imaginative analogies to illustrate its importance in building connections.
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Laura Zigman's Ghostwriting Start
- Laura Zigman started ghostwriting after hitting a wall with novelist work and got a chance to write a book for a TV show matchmaker.
- She consulted experienced ghostwriter Bill Novak who taught her the essence of ghostwriting for voice and story ownership.
Capturing Eddie Izzard’s Voice
- Eddie Izzard's digressive storytelling challenged Laura Zigman to represent his voice authentically.
- She used footnotes to capture his tangents, preserving his unique comedic style in the book.
Ask, Then Listen
- When interviewing for ghostwriting, ask questions then listen without interrupting to let subjects fill silences.
- People often reveal more when left with space to talk, so being an active listener is crucial.
