Maybe Not so Mediocre

In the episode of SoftPower/FulStories I recorded with Christopher Wurst last spring, the host generously says this:

“Ben East is a writer. His work shows him to be an astute student of soft power. There is a clear through line running between his time as a Peace Corps volunteer in Malawi, his experiences as a U.S. diplomat, and his work as a writer and editor.”

His career has been decidedly exceptional—which, it should be noted, is the opposite of mediocre.

The praise brings a smile into my heart.

And Chris seems to have gotten it right. Our interaction inspired me to finish a languishing essay, a faltering study of my career path away from journalism, into education, and finally, diplomacy. That study, titled “Mr. Mediocrity’s Great American Novel,” earned this writer first place at the state-wide level of the Virginia Writers Club Golden Nib contest.

Much of the content is covered in the episode. If you’re more of a reading type, reach out.

Once again, I thank the VWC for serving as an inspiration throughout 2025. And thanks to Chris for helping me explore memories as far back as the American bicentennial.

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