What was your first job as a journalist?
Technical
Have you ever used a typewriter?
I learned to type on an old school typewriter. My mistake rate was deplorable and my 40 words/minute paled in comparison to many.
How is social media changing news?
Objectivity is much more in question. Self-aggrandizing influencer sharks swim in loose facts, dark opinions, and highly biased narratives.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Tom Tucker
What does it mean to be a journalist?
Insight, angle, persistence
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
We always forget until it's least convenient.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
Email with a funny or inspiring story.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
Blog sites, web development
What's your favorite social network?
Twitter or LinkedIn. Generally more mindful and less pedantic gossip. But they all have their moments trafficking in muck.
Who do you wish followed you?
Adventurers, SCUBA divers, runners
Why did you become a journalist?
Share my recovery journey
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
Actually yearbook committee seemed to have more lasting impact.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
Rock climbing fall and recovery
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Just write and try not to suck. But in the end, write.
When's the best time to pitch you?
Morning
What's the best pitch you ever got?
Martini, extra dry?
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
Cotton candy should be a food group, right?
What's your favorite drink?
Bourbon
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
On a trail or the water
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
Outdoors
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
It's easy
