Interview with Purdue sports reporter Nathan Baird

Meet Nathan Baird, the Sports enterprise and Purdue reporter for the Indianapolis Star. Nathan joined IndyStar in June of 2024, bringing his passion for storytelling that surprises, informs, and entertains. His journey into journalism began as a way to stay connected to sports, receiving more positive feedback from his English and history teachers than from his football and baseball coaches.

For Nathan, the rush of adrenaline and collaboration required to produce quality work under pressure became addictive after experiencing his first high school football Friday night in the newsroom. When not chasing stories, Nathan unwinds by playing trains with his son and teaching him the Chicago Bears fight song, a bonding experience that will hopefully result in treasured memories despite the Bears’ track record.

When it’s time to relax, Nathan delves into a variety of shows like “Black Mirror,” “The Bear,” “Severance,” and “The Studio” for entertainment. He has also been revisiting “Cuyahoga” by his friend Pete Beatty. As for music, Nathan’s Spotify year-end playlist in 2024 showcased a mix of Caspar Babypants, The Wiggles, and Cyndi Lauper’s “Goonies R Good Enough,” revealing his eclectic taste in tunes.

In terms of four-legged companions, Nathan unequivocally prefers dogs over cats, likening the presence of dogs to a gift to mankind compared to feline counterparts. His love for sports began with the 1987 St. Louis Cardinals, specifically Willie McGee and John Tudor, cementing his allegiance to the Game. Over time, his profession has tempered his fandom, but watching Game 6 of the 2011 World Series remains a standout moment in his sports-watching history.

From his early days detasseling corn in the Midwest to his current role as a sports journalist, Nathan’s journey has been shaped by varied experiences. When it comes to comfort food, he finds solace in the dishes his mom prepares, including beef stroganoff, chicken and noodles, and an assortment of pies. And if he’s opting for takeout, Indian cuisine is his top choice.

Nathan’s insertion into the IndyStar newsroom has brought a fresh perspective to the sports reporting landscape. With an eye for captivating storytelling and a knack for finding hidden gems in the city, he continues to deliver engaging content to readers across Central Indiana. His passion for sports and commitment to quality journalism shine through in every article, making him a valuable asset to the Indianapolis Star team.