Tom Zoellner, an acclaimed nonfiction author and professor, shares his journey from obscurity to recognition, highlighting his view of writing as a pursuit of curiosity rather than fame. He challenges the role of technology in creativity, expressing skepticism about AI while embracing its potential. Their discussion covers the chaotic evolution of publishing, the importance of BISAC codes, and the pressures of memoir writing. Ultimately, Tom underscores the joy found in the craft of writing over the pursuit of publicity, advocating for the significance of each book's contribution to shared knowledge.