Seize the Hidden: Bob Boilen, Host of All Songs Considered, at 11th gathering of CreativeMornings/Washington, DC

CreativeMorning’s global theme for March 2014 was “Hidden.” Speaking for the Washington, DC, chapter was Bob Boilen, founder of the National Public Radio show “All Songs Considered.” He spoke of a practice he exercises in his life: To look for hidden qualities in people—potentially good qualities. As the beneficiary of this action at a young age, he set the course of his career.

After college and a few jobs related to music, Boilen formed a band called Tiny Desk Unit(1). Their time in a record...