What was your first job as a journalist?
Reporter/Anchor in Alexandria, MN. KSAX, the station then, is closed now. It closed after 3 months of me starting!
Have you ever used a typewriter?
LOL. No.
How is social media changing news?
It challenges journalists' integrity for one. It also can be perceived in so many different lights, creating fake news.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Clark Kent ;) Also, I love the journalist from House of Cards, played by Kate Mara.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
It means to give a voice to those who may not get one otherwise. It means uncovering the truth.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
I always love tweets about
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
Facebook messenger, because I know my messages likely pop up on your phone like a text so I have instant access to you when I'm ready.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
Mac, Final Cut Pro, INews, Slack, Outlook, all social, Notes on Mac, Otter, iPhone, JVC and Sony Gear, Go Pro, Drone
What's your favorite social network?
Facebook. Instagram. Twitter. Tik Tok is getting to me for sure.
Who do you wish followed you?
President Joe Biden? Kerri Walsh? Megyn Kelly?
Why did you become a journalist?
I love telling people's stoies. Everyone has one.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
Nope! I actually hated the news throughout life until I decided to take a news class in college!
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
Anything investigative or in-depth. Stories deserve our attention. It makes me sad to see 'turn and burn'.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Don't give up. Always believe in yourself! Speak up if you think your workload is too large. Follow your moral compass.
When's the best time to pitch you?
Anytime. But if you're pitching me, be willing to respond ASAP.
What's the best pitch you ever got?
I have no clue. But I love when people pitch over and over because it's like a reminder of what I need to do.
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
Make sure your fluffy cat pitch isn't going out when there is a mass shooting taking place. Tone deaf.
What's your favorite drink?
Vodka?
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
Playing with my children or sleeping. I'm always tired!
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
I like digital news sources like USA Today and the New York Times. I actually listen to a lot of podcasts nowadays now though instead.
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
That TV news is glamorous and pays a lot. Also that we are biased. Most of the time I'm just doing my job.
