What was your first job as a journalist?
I landed an assignment with a movie magazine on my very first pitch. I took it as an omen.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
That's like asking how old I am. I won't answer it.
How is social media changing news?
I find it challenging that the conversation never ends.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Jack McGee.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
I struggle with that question every day. Philosophically, I'm not sure it means much of anything anymore.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
. I came up with it. It never caught on.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
Via email, with a personal letter that shows the person knows what I cover.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
Anything they throw my way.
What's your favorite social network?
Twitter
Who do you wish followed you?
That guy in the subway with all the windup dolls.
Why did you become a journalist?
This may sound funny, but I thought I could make money.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
No.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
I've done a few stories on animal rights -- a little outside my beat -- which have generated very strong reactions.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Come up with your own ideas. Pitch them. Don't wait for someone to hand you a job. Tell them why they should hire you.
When's the best time to pitch you?
If the pitch is good, anytime.
