How bad is it to turn down interviews?

I have no idea what advice to give you, but I want to say I love what you're doing and wish you all the best on your journey. Can't wait to read all about it!!

I say you should require that they ride along side you while they talk to you. That should take care of everyone's priorities.

Seriously, you could decide what level of exposure works without disrupting your trip. You should be able to exert at least some control to prevent it from becoming a burden. If they want to talk to you on Monday, but Tuesday or Wednesday will work better for your schedule, say so. I can't believe that your trip is the kind of news that needs to be reported on a particular day--a couple of days later won't make any difference.

Another option is to set a single day when you will accept interviews. Let those interested sign up for a time slot on that day.

And a third option: have a press release, statement ready that's up to date. If you get a request for an interview that you can't schedule, send them the release.

Fourth: tell them to send their questions by e-mail and you'll respond in kind.

Best of luck! Like Mark Twain said about whiskey, too much publicity is just enough.

Actually, requiring an interviewer to ride alongside you might be a great idea. I can see that interview ending up on NPR.

No question that publicity (interviews and such) are critical for you, and I'm sure you know this. The more the better. However, IMO they shouldn't interfere with your riding goals and accemplishments. So, given special circumstances you might be better off tell the interviewer that you can't do an interview on such and such a date but would be available on such and such a date. Also, ans I don't know if this is possible, you might schedular particular int2erviews on time using some type of
satellite, computer, or telephone means.

The one thing I will say is that these interviews and such will prove extra special to you when it come time to try and sell your book. They not only display international interest, but a wide and diverse variety of same.

Idle thought.

First off, HI.....

I would think that unless they are $$$$supporting you, then they should work around your time. You have places to go and people to see. Let them work you into theirs. But, this is only my two cents.

Sure is good 'seeing' you.

Sounds like you've gotten some good advice, Nancy. I just stopped by to wave hello! Love the updates and I'm sure we'll see you around here plenty when you're writing the book.

Travel safe!

nancy sv said:

I feel the same, but in a way they are supporting us - by getting the story out it makes it that much more likely to get a book. But still...

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I'd be willing to be a little more accommodating to the BBC than the local news station, but I agree with the others. The news people will push for their convenience. You can push back. If you feel that they won't do the interview if they can't have it when they want it, and you do want the interview with them, then bend. But push first, bend second.

nancy sv said:

So - those of you with more know-how and experience in this arena (we have NONE!), how should we handle this?

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Charge 'em

nancy sv said:

So when the BBC wants to interview us we say, "Pay us or we won't talk!"

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yup. you can use more sophisticated language of course , but yup.
And they will.

nancy sv said:

Are you serious? What should we say?

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In ultimate answer to your question - if it's an inconvenience - make 'em pay for your time, if not- there's no prob.

as for what to say - you have a schedule, any distraction from that costs you - more time on the road, finding alternative accom - whatever. You have to be compensated.

however it's really a non-issue.
If interviews are a hassle, either say no, or get paid for your time.
but if there are integral to your objective - then they are integral to your objective. end of.

I have nothing to add other than for you guys for doing this. I can't imagine the memories you guys are making.