What happens when a Kansas farm kid grows up to become one of National Geographic’s most respected photographers? Meet Jim Richardson — the man behind more than 50 National Geographic stories, decades of teaching and mentoring, and a photographic journey that’s as much about people as it is about pictures.
In this first part of our two-part chat, Jim joins me for a whisky-fueled conversation about his early years on the Great Plains, the moment he swapped newspaper deadlines for the National Geographic dream, and the story that truly cemented his place at the magazine.
We talk about what it was like shooting in the golden days of National Geographic, when 12-week assignments were the norm and storytelling mattered more than style. Jim reflects on the importance of curiosity, why research is the secret weapon of every great photographer, and how the most meaningful images are born from connection, not coincidence.
And yes, there are laughs — from tales of risky whiskey-distillery shoots to his lifelong love affair with Scotland (and haggis). We also travel back to his long-term documentary project Cuba, Kansas, a 50-year portrait of small-town life, full of heart, dust, and human stories that never grow old.
It’s part nostalgia, part masterclass — and entirely Jim Richardson.
Grab your favorite drink, settle in, and don’t miss next week’s Part 2, with more incredible tales from life behind the lens☕📸
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📸 See more of Jim’s work:
https://www.jimrichardsonphotography.com/
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Thanks for listening and look out for our next episode! 🚀
