In this article, we draw on research employing creative nonfiction (CNF) in psychology and the sport sciences, to outline the value of one untapped CNF methodology: the hermit crab essay. We expand the methodological repertoire for CNF in arts based research by advocating for hermit crab CNFs that borrow from ready-made structures, to present ‘real research material’ in newly creative and accessible ways. We use the r/AmItheAsshole online advice community as our borrowed structure, to create examples ‘in action’ from a narrative study of running and fatherhood. We outline reflections researchers might consider if using this form of CNF.