Alan Motley
Verified
(He/Him)
Covers:
I cover LGBTQ+ culture, independent cinema, social issues affecting marginalized communities, and personal reflections on inclusivity and diversity.
Writer, Composer & Lyricist
Interview
What was your first job as a journalist?
My own website/blog Eat My Gay Chicken
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Yes
How is social media changing news?
Social media is fundamentally reshaping the news landscape by transforming how stories are discovered, reported, and consumed. As a journalist, I’ve witnessed how platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram have made news more immediate and interactive. They allow journalists to share breaking news in real time and engage directly with audiences, fostering a two-way conversation that was previously unavailable.This immediacy and accessibility have democratized information dissemination, giving voice to underrepresented communities and enabling citizen journalism. Stories that might have been overlooked by traditional media can gain traction through shares and likes, aligning with my commitment to amplifying marginalized voices.However, social media also presents significant challenges. The rapid spread of information increases the risk of misinformation and unverified news. It places a greater responsibility on journalists to fact-check and uphold ethical standards amid the pressure to publish quickly. Additionally, algorithm-driven feeds can create echo chambers, limiting exposure to diverse perspectives and reinforcing existing biases.The lines between professional journalism and user-generated content are increasingly blurred, making it essential for journalists to distinguish themselves through credibility and integrity. Embracing multimedia storytelling and adapting to new formats are also crucial in capturing and retaining audience attention in a crowded digital space.In essence, social media is changing news by making it more immediate and participatory but also more complex. It challenges journalists to adapt by leveraging these platforms to enhance storytelling while steadfastly adhering to the core principles of accuracy, fairness, and accountability. It’s an exciting evolution that, when navigated thoughtfully, can enrich the public discourse and strengthen the role of journalism in society.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Don't have one
What does it mean to be a journalist?
Being a journalist means being a storyteller, a truth-seeker, and an advocate. For me, it’s about using my platform to amplify marginalized voices, explore underrepresented narratives, and foster understanding within and beyond the LGBTQ community. It’s a commitment to authenticity, inclusivity, and social justice, aiming to inform, inspire, and ignite meaningful conversations that can lead to positive change.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
I am a fan of the meme with wit
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
Via email or Instagram
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
Word
What's your favorite social network?
Instagram
Who do you wish followed you?
I don't care about that.
Why did you become a journalist?
Energy with words is powerful.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
I did not. I was writing musicals.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
Calling out the lack of respect for where house music came from.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Do it.
When's the best time to pitch you?
Anytime
What's the best pitch you ever got?
Laddy Bunny
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
A musical artist that was clearly not ready for a review.
What's your favorite drink?
Dr. Pepper
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
Writing music
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
I read a lot of everything
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
That as a Black man, I do not have my finger on the pulse of what is going on. Mainly from a different perspective not often given daylight.
Would you like to take the Muck Rack Interview?
Create a Muck Rack profile.