Nicholas Thompson: CEO, Cancer Survivor, and World-Class Runner

New York, NY – Nicholas Thompson, CEO of The Atlantic, is not only a leading figure in journalism but also a passionate long-distance runner. During a conversation with CBS News, Thompson shared his journey from running as a child to becoming a world-class athlete at the age of 50.

On the day of their interview, Thompson ran to the office, showcasing his love for the sport. ‘Every time I go running, I’m opening my mind up, I’m engaging with nature,’ he explained. He believes that running allows him to think and serves as a refreshing break from his busy life filled with professional and family commitments.

Remarkably, Thompson has improved his marathon time significantly, even posting the fastest 50-mile time in the world for his age group this year. He attributes much of his dedication to running to the influence of his father, a runner himself, who instilled a sense of discipline and resilience in him.

Thompson recalls his father’s warnings about turning 40 and experiencing life changes. ‘He told me that all the time,’ he said. Thompson’s father struggled with alcoholism and sex addiction, which shaped Nicholas’s perspective on maintaining control in his life. Running became not just a sport but a coping mechanism for him.

After a break in college, Thompson resumed running in his late 20s, only to face a shocking diagnosis of thyroid cancer at age 30. ‘It was just a shock,’ Thompson recounted. He took the diagnosis as a new challenge, spurring him to continue marathoning to reclaim his sense of self.

Nick’s professional life flourished after joining Condé Nast, where he ultimately became editor-in-chief. He acknowledged that the discipline he gained from running has been essential in balancing his demanding career. ‘Running has been a great tool professionally,’ he noted.

Now, at 50, Thompson expresses astonishment at being faster than he was at age 35. He uses the metaphor of running against a moving sidewalk to explain the aging process, saying one can still push forward through intelligent training and better nutrition.

Despite moments of agony during races, he embraces the challenge. ‘That race was really hard,’ he said of a recent 50-miler race where he set a record.

Running remains a family tradition as he trains alongside his three sons, sharing the sport his father introduced to him. ‘It’s a great thing,’ he said, referring to teaching his boys and other kids in the community.

While he acknowledges the uncertainties of life, including the potential of falling apart at 50, Thompson remains dedicated to running and encouraging others to discover the joy of the sport. ‘I keep running because my life didn’t fall apart at 40,’ he laughed.