What was your first job as a journalist?
I interned at a tiny community newspaper in Radford, Virginia. I learned that good stories can't hide behind poor writing, and vice-versa.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Noisy GE Selectric II in high school, and I have two vintage Underwood & Royal units that I WILL restore before I die. Unless it's tomorrow.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
MacBook, iPhone, GoogleDocs. My decade-long Evernote addiction has spawned 3,000+ notes that hold everything together.
What's your favorite social network?
Totally love Reddit. The commentary hits my sweet spot of snark, social commentary, and deep pop culture reference.
Why did you become a journalist?
Though I've always been a writer, I chose the journalism major because I was/am still better at cranking out prose than taking tests.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
In 1997 I profiled a blind, deaf, and mute volunteer dishwasher in the kitchen of a San Diego homeless shelter. Foundationally inspiring story.
