Cata Balzano on Muck Rack

Cata Balzano

Verified
(She/Her)
Covers:  Culture, Travel, Fashion, Lifestyle and Entertainment
News junkie 🌏 | Colombian-Italian |📍Miami, with my assistant @ayoitsbentley | Retweets are NOT ads

Interview

What was your first job as a journalist?

I was at the Miami Herald before any other media outlet brought me on board.

Have you ever used a typewriter?

No, I commend type-writer journalists from back in the day, though. There's not "delete" tab for a type-o.

How is social media changing news?

It is becoming more accessible to everyone, but it is a double-sided sword, because too many people share news without verifying its validity

Who's your favorite fictional journalist?

Carrie Bradshaw reminds me of myself a lot, and so does Andy Sachs.

What does it mean to be a journalist?

To uncover real stories, be a voice and tell them in the most objective way possible.

How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?

I like a clear and concise 2-3 sentences along with press release and further information (bio, etc) attached to the e-mail.

What tools and software do you use to do your job?

My iphone for recording interviews, and my laptop for writing the stories and editing the videos. I use Adobe programs for all my editing.

What's your favorite social network?

Instagram

Who do you wish followed you?

Oprah

Why did you become a journalist?

Because writing, telling stories and documenting the human condition are great things to do for the rest of your life.

Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?

I did. I was The Beacon's (Flordia International University's newspaper) fashion columnist.

What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?

You will be measured by your knowledge, your will to learn and your determination to succeed and stop at nothing to accomplish your goals.

What's your favorite drink?

Sparkling water with limes

Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?

The New York Times, Homage Magazine, Vogue, Insider

What's the most common misperception about your beat?

That it doesn't take much study or preparation and anyone can do it.

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