What was your first job as a journalist?
My first job as a journalist was a staff writer for a newspaper.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
I still use a typewriter for certain literature-related projects.
How is social media changing news?
Social media is impacting the efficacy and reliability of real news. Relying on algorithms and analytics is devastating the news "business".
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
An adorable, dynamic character from a Pilot that I wrote. That's all I can say, legally. LOL.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
Being a journalist means documenting history, telling fact-based stories and sharing information.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
The funniest news-related that comes to mind is an entertainment news story:
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
Neutral. Give me what you got and I'll work it or pass.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
Adobe Suite, Zamzar, Google News Initiative, Virtual News Cast, Final Draft, Rev Voice Recorder, Police Scanner
What's your favorite social network?
They're all double edged swords.
Who do you wish followed you?
I'm content following Christ. I trust Him to connect me with who I'm meant to be connected to professionally.
Why did you become a journalist?
Growing up motherless, the thirteenth and last born child, I often felt unheard. I became a journalist to share stories of the often unheard.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
My high school did not have a newspaper.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
I am most proud of working on my honors thesis film. Discipline vs Abuse: Surveys and Interviews from imprisoned violent offenders.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Do not compromise on honesty and integrity. At the end of the day, it's you and a mirror, not you and followers and fans.
When's the best time to pitch you?
Anytime
What's the best pitch you ever got?
There's no best pitch for me. I get a rush when I receive a challenge to tell a fact-based story.
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
I don't have a pitch rating.
What's your favorite drink?
Sparkling Fruit Essence Water
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
On a production set or in the pool.
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
Writer's Digest is my monthly treat.
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
It's bigger than a beat. Sadly, if views and the potential for viral exposure is not attached to a pitch or a story, it often gets buried.
