What was your first job as a journalist?
Writing content for the now-defunct website called "Monkey Goggles," which was run by the Seattle novelty company, Archie McPhee.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Sure have. I came of age right at the tail end of the typewriter era.
How is social media changing news?
For the worse in many ways. When the story becomes what's trending on Twitter you know we're going down a sad path.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Bilbo Baggins.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
Well, I kind of stumbled into this line of work after cutting my teeth as a playwright and then travel blogger. It's a privilege.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
I'm not an editor so I'm usually the one doing the pitching.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
I'm a Google docs man. Can't stand Word. Way too many bells and whistles.
What's your favorite social network?
I like Facebook because I'm used to it. It's also primarily writing-based and I get the most engagement there.
Who do you wish followed you?
T.C. Boyle
Why did you become a journalist?
I feel possessed to write about the world around me. This led me to blogging which eventually opened doors to proper publications.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
Nope. I was a drama kid.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
As far as travel pieces, the article I did on beer and food in Osaka for National Geographic Traveller (UK) stands out.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Persistence it key. Just keep at it and outlast the competition.
When's the best time to pitch you?
Anytime works. I live in Korea so am often out of synch with the Western world, but I check my email religiously.
What's the best pitch you ever got?
"Wanna go to Japan?"
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
"Just give us your content for free."
What's your favorite drink?
Cold beer.
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
Out walking, either on a mountain trail, a city street, or rural path.
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
I still read and pay for the New York Times. I don't like everything they put out but they're still the gold standard for a lot of journalism
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
Probably that it's a dream gig. Sure, it's great to get paid to travel, but there are times when it is grinding, tedious, and lonely.
