What was your first job as a journalist?
I was hired as the lead online editor for my college newspaper. I don't know how.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Yessir.
How is social media changing news?
Aside from people demanding more writing for less money? It's not.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Will McAvoy. Obviously.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
I am in no way qualified to answer that question.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
If you have a pulse and can say "thank you for your time," you'll do just fine. Honestly, that second part is optional.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
Pen and paper. Everything else is embellishment.
What's your favorite social network?
A pub.
Who do you wish followed you?
Ben Anderson
Why did you become a journalist?
I always wanted to serve in the military, but health issues barred me from doing so. I decided instead to shine a light on those who serve.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
I don't think I did anything in high school.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
Covering Mattis' resignation after the Syria withdrawal announcement. It seems little now, but it was a big deal for me to cover it.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
There's always room for the people who show up.
When's the best time to pitch you?
Yesterday.
What's the best pitch you ever got?
"I'll pay you."
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
Will you write my son's high school science paper?
What's your favorite drink?
Maker's. Rocks.
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
At a printer.
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
Military Times
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
That the US is involved in innumerable endless conflicts
