What was your first job as a journalist?
As a high school reporter.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Yes, in my grandmother's basement!
How is social media changing news?
You're able to receive and exchange stories much faster than you ever imagined but the constant misinformation is tiring.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
A fictional journalist? Don't have one but my favorite author is Haruki Murakami.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
Journalists aren't just storytellers; they focus on sharing stories that really resonate with and matter to their audience.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
Has to be covfefe
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
Email. And my ideal email length is 2–3 sentences. If those 3 sentences pique my interest, we are on to something.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
HARO, Terkel and this :)
What's your favorite social network?
Twitter (X) and Reddit.
Who do you wish followed you?
James Hoffman, a notable barista in the coffee industry.
Why did you become a journalist?
I like highlighting issues, struggles, and stories that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
Writing about notable events for our yearbook.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
My earlier pieces when I was brimming with hope and enthusiasm. I hate to admit but over time, you can get burnt out.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Explore the stories behind individuals, and you'll create a piece that resonates with others.
When's the best time to pitch you?
In the evening, between 5 and 10 pm.
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
There are so many but mostly when they start with 'dear sir'.
What's your favorite drink?
Espresso macchiato but most coffees as long as they aren't doused in syrup.
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
Roaming the streets of a new city where I'm currently traveling.
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
Opinion pieces from The Atlantic and NPR. I like their story-telling approach; the way they convey ideas that grab you in the mind
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
That there are good coffees and bad coffees. There really is no right or wrong. It's how you perceive it.
