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Ailsa Sheldon on Muck Rack

Ailsa Sheldon

(She/Her)
Covers:  Travel, Food, Drink, Sustainability
Freelance journalist- food, drink, travel and sustainability - NCTJ trained + MSc. in Gastronomy. Usually cooking or eating. (she/her)

Interview

What was your first job as a journalist?

The List Food and Drink Guide- restaurant reviewer

Have you ever used a typewriter?

Sadly not

What does it mean to be a journalist?

It's a huge privilege. People give you their time and expertise and trust you with their stories, I never take that for granted.

What tools and software do you use to do your job?

I use Google Docs as I love being able to switch between notes on my phone and different computers. It's simple but it works. Dropbox too.

Who do you wish followed you?

More commissioning editors, working on it

Why did you become a journalist?

I love sharing people's stories, playing with words, and constantly learning new things.

Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?

We didn't have one, though I did launch a primary school newspaper which I edited. I did charity projects in high school.

When's the best time to pitch you?

Anytime really, I work odd hours.

What's your favorite drink?

Too many favourites! I do love a crisp early evening gin and tonic

Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?

The Guardian

What's the most common misperception about your beat?

That food writing is all instagrammable smoothies, it's so much more. I have a Masters in Gastronomy for starters.

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