The Story

When I got the call to interview Lonnie Ali, my heart jumped. I flew into Louisville the night before and ended up at Proof on Main, downtown. It was a moment of calm before the storm. I shared with Peggy, the bartender, why I was in town and how nervous I was about the interview. She offered a piece of advice that stuck: “Treat her like she’s your aunt, and you’ll be just fine.”

The next morning, the room was buzzing. The Kentucky Tourism team, the production crew, and folks from the Muhammad Ali Center were all waiting. Then Lonnie walked in and everything changed. She carried a presence that made everyone sit up straighter.

Before we even started, she looked over the base list of questions that had been provided to me by the client. She shook her head and said, “I’m not answering these. What does this have to do with Muhammad Ali?” The room went silent. I stayed calm, handed her my pen, and gave her this look like I really was her nephew and I needed her help, like it was a project for school. She laughed, started marking things up, and just like that she became Aunt Lonnie. The ice was broken.

When the cameras rolled, the conversation flowed. We shared stories, cracked jokes, and found a rhythm. She even answered some of the questions she had crossed off. What could have been tense turned into one of the most natural interviews I’ve had while working with Kentucky Tourism.

Why It Hit Different

That day showed me something important. Preparation matters, but connection is what makes the difference. You can have the research, the clipboard, and the questions, but none of it means anything if you can’t meet someone where they are. Lonnie reminded me that the best moments happen when you stay open.

How to Make Your Own

  • Find your anchor. My talk with Peggy grounded me. Look for that moment or person who helps you settle before the main event.
  • Respect the boundaries. Let people cross out the questions they don’t want. It shows respect and builds trust.
  • Bring family energy if possible. Treat the person like kin. It can change the whole vibe.
  • Stay loose. The best conversations happen in the unscripted moments.

Final Word

The conversation honored Muhammad Ali’s legacy while teaching me the value of staying ready, respecting the moment, and trusting connection over control.