What was your first job as a journalist?
Although I have been a radio presenter & producer since 1998, my first job as an actual journalist was at BBC Radio Shropshire in 2017.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
My Mum had one and I wrote to lots of football clubs asking to be their announcer. I heard back from most too. (I didn't get a gig though.)
How is social media changing news?
It is making it more expansive: not only in terms of journalism but in terms of the stories that come from the reactions to each piece.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Scott Robinson from Neighbours.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
It means being able to share the stories of so-called ordinary people. It means the freedom to highlight how unique every single person is.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
I am writing from my desk in my daughter's nursery. I have my laptop, social media tabs open, a microphone with audio interface and webcam.
What's your favorite social network?
I think Twitter above all else. That said, after years of false starts and thinking it was for rich corporate types, I'm now loving LinkedIn.
Who do you wish followed you?
Anyone who could read my Tweets and decide to commission work off the back of them. And Robbie Williams.
Why did you become a journalist?
Because I am a curious person and I love to find out about people and hear their stories.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
See rejection as a bumper to divert you. It's not failure and it's not the end. You'll never be where you imagined in 5 years' time.
When's the best time to pitch you?
To be honest, any time of the day or night. I am most likely to respond in the morning, but I'll read pitches throughout the day.
What's your favorite drink?
Mead. It is fortified honey wine (not beer). It tastes like all the best dreams you have ever woken up from.
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
I love The Guardian and HuffPost for lifestyle pieces. The i always educates me with things I didn't know I wanted to know. Or Twitter.
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
That working from home isn't really working.
