The Planning
We start with a short planning call or email, and ensure a great experience for everyone involved!
We'll talk about the person whose story you want to capture, and make sure that we cover what's most important.
The Interview
Next up: A natural 60-minute+ conversation with me, award-winning journalist Bill Murphy Jr.
We'll get the stories in a fun atmosphere that leaves subject confident that what they have to share matters.
The Keepsakes
No more "someday, maybe we'll get around to this."
Instead, it's done.
You get the video, transcript, and story highlights delivered in 5 business days.
Get the life stories that matter
The ones you never knew.
And the ones you think you know — but haven't saved!
In the 1950s, two sisters in Rhode Island had an argument and didn't speak for years.
Finally, they reconciled. A few years after that, one of the sisters had friends visiting from Montreal with their three teenage daughters.
She thought: "Cute girls, same age as my nephew."
So she brought them her sister's house—and that's how my parents met.
Imagine: If they hadn't made up, I might not exist! You wouldn't be reading this!
I only learned most of this last year, when I interviewed my dad. It's one of dozens of family stories I never would have known otherwise.
And, it's a big part of why I started Life Story Magic.
What stories are waiting to be discovered in your family?
Here's what you get, and why.
That's me, Bill Murphy Jr., age 10 in the photo back ... but all grown up now, with a full career as an author and journalist.
Here's what I'm offering:
I will personally interview someone whose story matters to you—
- parents
- grandparents
- you, yourself (I've done this for myself!)
- anyone you want—
—for 60 minutes (or more) on video.
We'll get the stories. You'll get:
- the video
- transcript
- the legacies to keep forever.
About Bill Murphy Jr.
If you're reading this, chances are you know me from Understandably, the daily newsletter I've written since 2019. Or maybe you know me from my time at The Washington Post, or you've read one of my books.
I'm also one of the most-read writers at Inc.com, with articles that have reached tens of millions of readers.
I started my career as an attorney, but I found my calling in storytelling—helping people understand what matters and why.
I've done thousands of interviews over my career.
These Life Story Magic interviews are different—and more.
They're personal, intimate, and designed to capture the stories that deserve to be remembered.
Your family's stories matter, and I'll treat them with the care they deserve.
Frequently asked questions
Can I give this as a gift?
Absolutely. Once you sign up for an interview, and I'll send you (or your gift recipient) a booking link to schedule at their convenience. The interview can happen anytime—next week, next month, or next year. There's no expiration.
What does this cost?
Interviews cost $299.
During this introductory phase, I'm offering discounts to loyal "Understandably" newsletter readers.
If you've been thinking about preserving someone's story, now is the time!
How technical does the person being interviewed have to be?
Not at all. We meet on either Zoom or Google Meet (I'll send you a link when you schedule.)
I handle all the recording, transcribing and editing.
What if the person I'm gifting this to doesn't want to do it?
The booking link doesn't expire, so they can use it whenever (or if) they're ready.
Or you can use it for someone else in your family instead.
How long does the interview take?
About an hour, sometimes a bit longer if the stories are flowing. I never rush anyone off.
Can you interview me, instead of a family member?
Absolutely! If you've ever thought: I should write down some of my stories, but I never have the time, this can be an easy way to do that.
Some of my favorite interviews have been people preserving their own stories -- either for their kids or grandkids, or for a broader audience.
What questions will you ask?
We'll talk about this during our Story Planning Call, which is a crucial stage of the process.
You'll tell me which areas of life matter most—ancestry, childhood, career, romance, faith, parenting, military service, etc.
It's important to prepare so that we can tailor the questions and guide the interview toward priorities.
Can I be on the call during the interview?
You can, but I generally recommend you're not. People often open up more when it's just a one-on-one conversation.
However, if it makes the interview subject more comfortable, you're welcome to join.
What if they don't want to be on camera?
We can do audio-only interviews. I'll create a simple video with photos you provide, or just deliver the audio and transcript.
What's your refund policy?
If you're unhappy with the final product, I'll work with you to make it right. If we can't, I'll refund you. Simple as that.