John, just a few reasons I’m a loyal subscriber, dedicated reader, occasional commenter:
-Although your focus is the Pac12, you don’t stop there. I’ve been frustrated by other writers’ singular focus on the conference (less so now that I understand the business model behind it), but you drive in an adjacent lane. And it works.
-The reader discourse here is uncommonly civil and reasonably well informed—esp compared to other content sites that allow reader input. I think that’s a reflection of YOU as much as us.
-You obviously read what we share, and that inspires me to be thoughtful and rational when I do comment. (As opposed to “yelling” in hopes that someone notices.) I wonder if that is true of others.
-You are human. We know more about you because you share more about yourself than the typical writer. Others may just not want to be open about their personal lives. And that’s perfectly fine. But transparency is part of your secret sauce.
-And, finally, you seem to be simply a nice guy. Tough, inquisitive journalist, yes. (Not all people in college sports appreciate or value that—including some thin-skinned AD’s and presidents.) But a good person. Your post celebrating the end of your launch year affirms that. Congratulations.
I especially love the personal stories you post that deal with human interest. Each has its own message about so many things regarding the lives of people. Part philosophy, part inspiration, part witness......all teaching the rest of us as you post them how to be better people, and how to do a better job of being part of something bigger than ourselves. Thank you!
Being one of your more mature readers, I look forward to your column every morning! You offer me explanations and personal insights not available any where else. Your writing style is delightful. My fixed income will always have room for you! Carry on.....
I can't believe it has been a year already. I am always excited to see a new John Canzano email when scrolling through my inbox and can't to see what year number two brings!! Keep up the great work and thank you for everything you share with us.
So much sportswriting is sanitized pablum. You've managed to be yourself and create a space for yourself in a business that doesn't always tolerate individuality. I don't read all of your work, but then my readers don't read all of my work on my Substack. When you do nail something, though, it's a joy to read, because it's not just about sports, and I love those places where sports and humanity intersect.
Congratulations on your one year anniversary and your success!
As a hardcore Husky fan I didn't quite know what to expect when I subscribed but I did know you were a very good writer. The breadth and depth of your articles exceeded my exceptions. Looking forward to year number 2!
For what it is worth, I heard about your move to Substack, checked it out... "subscribed"... and decided in my retirement to write about Oregon/NW sports in a manner different from you, but it has been a great avenue to pursue as a former English teacher and longtime sportscaster.
You continue to write intriguing stuff, John--didn't matter "who" your sponsor was. Keep it up, and thanks for inspiring at least one other person to take a chance on writing as well... Happy ANNIVERSARY, John.
I have enjoyed your column immensely-- I will gladly pay for excellence. Journalism has suffered mightily since I was an undergrad writing for KBVR and the Daily Barometer at OSU. With the acceptance of “alternative facts” and the paring down of news organizations it is refreshing to find a source that provides solid reporting that is written well.
I am reminded of the great Jim Murray (legendary LA Times columnist) and the wonderful Paul Harvey when I read your columns.
You are correct about the deterioration of the industry. It's a mess out there. I needed a place that was sane, honest, entertaining and authentic. Appreciate that you are here for it.
Congratulations on a great first year. So happy for you and your family! I enjoy reading the Bald Face Truth 'Illustrated' and thank you for helping us to be informed and entertained!
Congratulations on your 1 year anniversary and the huge success it has brought you!! Even back then, Anna could predict without hesitation that this project would go way beyond what you probably imagined. Thank you for sharing all the many stories during the past year. Yes, your story about the nurse saving the man's life still resonates with me.
Congratulations on one year! I enjoy waking up every morning and reading your latest work. I always looked forward to it before you were and independent. Not sure if your a fishing guy, but if you are and want to go salmon or steelhead fishing on the coast, let's hook up. My son is a professional guide on the coast and it's always a great time getting out of the city and relaxing while drifting down a river. Who knows there might even be a story in there somewhere.
John, just a few reasons I’m a loyal subscriber, dedicated reader, occasional commenter:
-Although your focus is the Pac12, you don’t stop there. I’ve been frustrated by other writers’ singular focus on the conference (less so now that I understand the business model behind it), but you drive in an adjacent lane. And it works.
-The reader discourse here is uncommonly civil and reasonably well informed—esp compared to other content sites that allow reader input. I think that’s a reflection of YOU as much as us.
-You obviously read what we share, and that inspires me to be thoughtful and rational when I do comment. (As opposed to “yelling” in hopes that someone notices.) I wonder if that is true of others.
-You are human. We know more about you because you share more about yourself than the typical writer. Others may just not want to be open about their personal lives. And that’s perfectly fine. But transparency is part of your secret sauce.
-And, finally, you seem to be simply a nice guy. Tough, inquisitive journalist, yes. (Not all people in college sports appreciate or value that—including some thin-skinned AD’s and presidents.) But a good person. Your post celebrating the end of your launch year affirms that. Congratulations.
Thank you Barry. Means a lot to me. Appreciate that you're here for it.
Well played, Barry. Charlie
Excellent comments. You've captured my thoughts exactly.
It's why I subscribe. Unvarnished, Unapologetic, Unrivaled
I like it. Let's put that on a billboard! Thank you Bruce.
Truth. Sports is human interest and vise versa. Authentic, Caring and Trustworthy. All I/we can ask for
Unabashed!
I especially love the personal stories you post that deal with human interest. Each has its own message about so many things regarding the lives of people. Part philosophy, part inspiration, part witness......all teaching the rest of us as you post them how to be better people, and how to do a better job of being part of something bigger than ourselves. Thank you!
Gary R. Swanson
Thanks Gary. We need more of those uplifting stories and columns in life. So much garbage out there.
Congratulations John. You're one of a small number of must-read's for me. (Sometimes I don't read the Duck columns to the very end. Go Beavers! j/k)
Appreciate that you include me in the must-reads. Means a lot.
Same. Go Cougs!
Thanks D.
Same- #GoBeavs.
Being one of your more mature readers, I look forward to your column every morning! You offer me explanations and personal insights not available any where else. Your writing style is delightful. My fixed income will always have room for you! Carry on.....
Thank you Gay!
I can't believe it has been a year already. I am always excited to see a new John Canzano email when scrolling through my inbox and can't to see what year number two brings!! Keep up the great work and thank you for everything you share with us.
Thanks Bill. It went so fast and I had so much fun. Appreciate your support.
So much sportswriting is sanitized pablum. You've managed to be yourself and create a space for yourself in a business that doesn't always tolerate individuality. I don't read all of your work, but then my readers don't read all of my work on my Substack. When you do nail something, though, it's a joy to read, because it's not just about sports, and I love those places where sports and humanity intersect.
Congratulations! Keep up the good work.
There are so many columns I want to write. Some are about sports. Some aren't. I appreciate that you're here for it.
congratulations john. you are a must-read daily.
thank you so much
I've admired your dedication to not just the facts, but the human interest part of your life. Keep it up!
Thanks Dan. Those are the columns I really like to write.
Great reflection on your amazing journey. Happy to be alongside. Thank you.
Easiest column ever to write. I lived it. It went fast. I can't wait to see where we go in year two. Thank you Nadine.
Congratulations on your one year anniversary and your success!
As a hardcore Husky fan I didn't quite know what to expect when I subscribed but I did know you were a very good writer. The breadth and depth of your articles exceeded my exceptions. Looking forward to year number 2!
Thank you. Really interested in what Washington football will be this season. Need some defense to go with the high-octane offense... and look out.
I finally agree with a Husky fan!
I am the glue.
For what it is worth, I heard about your move to Substack, checked it out... "subscribed"... and decided in my retirement to write about Oregon/NW sports in a manner different from you, but it has been a great avenue to pursue as a former English teacher and longtime sportscaster.
You continue to write intriguing stuff, John--didn't matter "who" your sponsor was. Keep it up, and thanks for inspiring at least one other person to take a chance on writing as well... Happy ANNIVERSARY, John.
Love it! Love that you're inspired. Thank you!
I have enjoyed your column immensely-- I will gladly pay for excellence. Journalism has suffered mightily since I was an undergrad writing for KBVR and the Daily Barometer at OSU. With the acceptance of “alternative facts” and the paring down of news organizations it is refreshing to find a source that provides solid reporting that is written well.
I am reminded of the great Jim Murray (legendary LA Times columnist) and the wonderful Paul Harvey when I read your columns.
Thank you!
You are correct about the deterioration of the industry. It's a mess out there. I needed a place that was sane, honest, entertaining and authentic. Appreciate that you are here for it.
Congratulations on a great first year. So happy for you and your family! I enjoy reading the Bald Face Truth 'Illustrated' and thank you for helping us to be informed and entertained!
Thank you Chip. Appreciate all your comment/contributions and support.
Congratulations on your 1 year anniversary and the huge success it has brought you!! Even back then, Anna could predict without hesitation that this project would go way beyond what you probably imagined. Thank you for sharing all the many stories during the past year. Yes, your story about the nurse saving the man's life still resonates with me.
Anna knew. She always does.
Congratulations on one year! I enjoy waking up every morning and reading your latest work. I always looked forward to it before you were and independent. Not sure if your a fishing guy, but if you are and want to go salmon or steelhead fishing on the coast, let's hook up. My son is a professional guide on the coast and it's always a great time getting out of the city and relaxing while drifting down a river. Who knows there might even be a story in there somewhere.
I would love to write a column about the battle between the sea lions and fisherman. It's on my list of things to do in year two.