What was your first job as a journalist?
St. Petersburg times of Florida travel section
Have you ever used a typewriter?
0f course.
How is social media changing news?
Magnification of distraction- less time for clear thought and concentration. But, it has some benefits.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
That fellow from such an obscure English detective story that I'm terribly sorry, but I've forgotten his name. I'll invent one for my book!
What does it mean to be a journalist?
I do not adhere to the definitions others might wish to use, so I also don't speak for them. I remain sanguine, free-thinking and open.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
(Take that, AI!)
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
It's always nice when editors are familiar with one's work and understand what they need written, and are polite.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
The more simple and basic, the better- I intend to keep proving that low-tech writing still succeeds. No fancy tech here, friends.
What's your favorite social network?
You mean, except for Muck Rack?
Who do you wish followed you?
Ideally, the ideal employer of freelance writers should such a personage exist.
Why did you become a journalist?
My insatiable curiosity about different peoples and cultures, combined with a love of adventure, mystery and humanity- and, writing.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
Did not have one, alas.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
Honestly, the fictional work that is still in development and which will come out in future is my best achievement. Stand by!
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Be patient, polite, flexible and always pay attention to the local realities and people- people are always key, no matter the tech!
When's the best time to pitch you?
Whenever you're feeling lucid in exposition of the pitch, and in a positive mood to discuss the project. Please believe in your work.
What's the best pitch you ever got?
Too many to choose from!
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
I don't remember exactly, it's written down somewhere, and will make an excellent premise for a detective story.
What's your favorite drink?
Grapefruit juice.
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
I love taking walks to take the pulse of the city and, of course, swimming whenever travels and location permit.
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
Classic fiction and scholarly works.
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
Well, the Balkans is often depicted in a stereotypical, negative fashion, but re. the beat itself- trends change so quick, I'm not sure...
