On August 2, 2007, Jeffrey S. Gaffney interviewed Dr. James N. Pitts Jr., Emeritus Professor of Chemistry at the University of California, Riverside, and Research Chemist at the University of California, Irvine, for the Tape Recorded Interview Project. Dr. Pitts discusses his extensive career in atmospheric chemistry, his contributions to understanding and addressing air pollution, and his role as a co-founder and former director of the University of California Statewide Air Pollution Research Center. He reflects on his early influences, including his father’s entrepreneurial spirit and his own formative years during the Great Depression. Dr. Pitts recounts his academic journey, beginning at UCLA, where he worked under notable figures like Francis Blacet and Jimmy McCullough, and his involvement in chemical warfare research during World War II. He elaborates on the evolution of smog research, highlighting pivotal discoveries by plant scientists and his own contributions to identifying and mitigating photochemical smog. Dr. Pitts underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and mentoring young scientists, including women who made significant strides in the field. The interview also touches on his philosophy of focusing on fundamentals in both teaching and research, as exemplified in his co-authored books on atmospheric chemistry. He reflects on his personal and professional partnership with his wife, Dr. Barbara Finlayson-Pitts, and their shared commitment to advancing the field.