I've come to recognize what I call my 'inside interests.' Telling stories. And helping people tell their stories is a sort of interpersonal gardening. My work at NBC News was to report the news, but in hindsight, I often tried to look for some insight to share that might spark a moment of recognition in a viewer.

Jane Pauley’s quote reflects her deep self-awareness and the evolving nature of her career and personal interests. By referring to her passion as “inside interests,” she highlights activities that resonate deeply with her, such as telling stories and helping others share their own. The comparison of this work to interpersonal gardening underscores her belief that, just as gardening involves nurturing growth, her role in storytelling helps cultivate deeper understanding and connections between people.

The phrase “interpersonal gardening” is particularly insightful, suggesting that, like a gardener tending to plants, Pauley sees herself as someone who nurtures relationships and conversations. In her view, fostering an environment where people can express themselves and share their personal narratives is a form of cultivation. This metaphor conveys the care and attention she puts into encouraging openness and communication, which ultimately helps people discover or share meaningful truths.

Pauley’s reflection on her time at NBC News reveals that her work went beyond merely reporting the facts. While her job was to deliver the news, she also sought to add value by uncovering deeper insights that could resonate with viewers. This extra layer of meaning suggests that Pauley was not only focused on delivering information but on creating moments of recognition or understanding for her audience, aiming to connect with them on a more personal level.

The origin of this quote likely stems from Pauley’s long career as a television personality, where she experienced the intersection of professional responsibilities and personal fulfillment. As a news anchor, her job was to inform, but through reflection, she recognized that her true satisfaction came from the moments of connection and recognition she could facilitate, much like a gardener nurturing plants to bloom.