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Wright Thompson

Senior writer at ESPN and author of several books, including "The Barn," which explores the murder of Emmett Till.

Top 10 podcasts with Wright Thompson

Ranked by the Snipd community
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4 snips
Sep 28, 2024 • 57min

Wright Thompson on Untangling Myth from History in America

Wright Thompson, an acclaimed author known for exploring the American South, reflects on his regional roots and the haunting legacy of Emmett Till's murder. He discusses the importance of confronting uncomfortable historical truths and how personal memories intertwine with the broader narrative of racial violence in America. Thompson emphasizes the need for honesty in journalism and the responsibility of sharing these stories, while exploring the fragility of memory and the moral duty to preserve history for future generations.
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Sep 25, 2024 • 1h 10min

Wright Thompson on Reckoning with the South’s Buried Secrets

Wright Thompson, a Senior Writer at ESPN and author of The Barn, dives deep into the haunting legacy of Emmett Till's murder. He illuminates how political rhetoric has fueled racial violence and discusses the stark realities of cognitive dissonance. The conversation flows through the intertwined histories of the American South, revealing 'polite fictions' surrounding racial events. Thompson also reflects on the broader implications of history, including the economic shadows of the cotton boom and the moral ambiguities inherent in American narratives.
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Dec 5, 2024 • 16min

Till, Memory, History and Place w/ Wright Thompson

Wright Thompson, author of "The Barn," shares insights into the historical and emotional weight of Emmett Till's story. He emphasizes the delicate balance between memory and history, urging the inclusion of marginalized voices in narratives. The conversation delves into the complexities of creativity and the chaotic thought processes that shape impactful storytelling. Thompson also reflects on nostalgia linked to Mississippi's history, advocating for a collective understanding to envision a hopeful future amid socio-economic challenges.
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Dec 3, 2024 • 29min

What Really Killed Emmett Till (1955) w/ Wright Thompson

In this engaging discussion, Wright Thompson, author of "The Barn," sheds light on the harrowing murder of Emmett Till in 1955, encouraging a deeper understanding of its historical roots. He critiques oversimplified narratives that often accompany Till's story. The conversation explores how Till's legacy intertwines with systemic racism and collective memory, reflecting on its enduring impact on Black families. Thompson's insights prompt listeners to rethink the historical significance of such tragic events in shaping American identity.
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Nov 24, 2025 • 2h 33min

Full Episode - Marjorie Taylor-Greene Is An "America First” True Believer…Trump Isn’t + The Barn, The South, and the Stories America Still Won’t Tell

Wright Thompson, an award-winning long-form writer and author of 'The Barn', dives deep into the legacy of Emmett Till and the ongoing struggle to teach Black history in the South. He discusses how economic factors have influenced Mississippi’s historical narrative and the efforts to keep Till's story alive amidst a larger backdrop of systemic racism. Thompson ties these discussions to the significance of remembering history for understanding American identity and explores the intersection of sports and social change.
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Nov 24, 2025 • 1h 6min

Interview Only w/ Wright Thompson - The Barn, The South, And The Stories America Still Won’t Tell

Wright Thompson, an award-winning writer and longtime sports columnist, chats about his book, *The Barn*, and the crucial narratives of civil rights in America. He discusses Emmett Till's legacy as a turning point and the ongoing erasure of Black history, especially in Mississippi. Thompson highlights how sports have served as moral leaders and critiques the 'lost cause' mythology impacting cultural memory. He also reflects on broader challenges in American governance while emphasizing the importance of preserving historical narratives.
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Dec 17, 2024 • 53min

“The Barn: The Secret History of a Murder in Mississippi” with Wright Thompson

Wright Thompson, a senior writer for ESPN and author of "The Barn: The Secret History of a Murder in Mississippi," dives into the haunting legacy of Emmett Till's 1955 murder. He uncovers shocking truths often omitted from history, revealing personal connections and the broader societal implications. The conversation touches on Willie Reed's courageous testimony and the struggle against the 'big lie' that distorts memory. Thompson's insights challenge listeners to confront Mississippi's troubled past and its ongoing impact on contemporary identity and community.
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Dec 1, 2024 • 44min

Tom Colicchio, Ted Turner's Conservation Lands, Angela Merkel

Tom Colicchio, celebrated chef and restaurateur known from Top Chef, shares his journey in the culinary world and the importance of community through cooking. Ted Turner, media mogul and conservationist, discusses his private nature preserves that aim to restore ecosystems and the balance between conservation and eco-tourism. Angela Merkel, former Chancellor of Germany, reflects on her leadership and the evolving political landscape. Meanwhile, Selena Gomez touches on her experiences in entertainment and advocacy for mental health.
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Sep 27, 2024 • 38min

A Barn, A Murder, And The Weight Of Secrecy

Wright Thompson, an acclaimed author known for his deep dives into historical narratives, discusses the haunting legacy of Emmett Till's murder in Mississippi. He shares insights from his book, exploring how people historically obscure uncomfortable truths. The conversation touches on the significance of a barn tied to this tragic event and highlights the challenges of memorializing this dark chapter. Thompson also reflects on the importance of confronting local history to foster understanding and address ongoing issues of racial violence and social justice.
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Sep 19, 2024 • 1h 15min

273: From Mississippi to the Battleground States with Michael Podhorzer & Wright Thompson

Michael Podhorzer, the former AFL-CIO political director, discusses critical voter outreach strategies and the importance of mobilizing non-college-educated voters, especially in key battleground states. Wright Thompson, author of 'The Barn', sheds light on the haunting legacy of Emmett Till and how historical events shape current racial dynamics in the South. Together, they explore the complexities of voter engagement and the ongoing struggle for civil rights, emphasizing the need for focused outreach and the impact of Mississippi's dark history on contemporary politics.

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