What was your first job as a journalist?
After college, I was a stringer for a local newspaper in Framingham, MA called the "MetroWest Daily News."
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Thank GOD not for more than typing envelopes! I was blessed to have a professor father who got me access to computers early.
How is social media changing news?
It's making it imperative that we get the news out to audiences faster while getting it right.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Tess Harding is my absolute favorite but Murphy Brown is a close second.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
It means being a voice for those with limited voices, telling truths that many don't want revealed, being a true "interMEDIAry."
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
I see so many that are hilarious, I can't name one.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
Via email or Twitter. However, don't stalk me or troll me bro' and think that will work. Also, know my beats with specificity.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
I won't tell my secrets but let's just say if it's not digital and mobile friendly, I'm not interested.
What's your favorite social network?
I'm developing a genuine interest in Bluesky, but I prioritize LinkedIn.
Why did you become a journalist?
I'm a natural communicator and advocate and gifted writer (which I've heard since high school). I love telling important stories.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
I wasn't.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
My investigative pieces, "Downfall of a Black Syndication Kingpin" and "Immigration assignment at N.C. high school sparks racism debate."
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Learn to write well for the times you're in, read voraciously, be a critic, be relentless in getting stories right, have integrity.
When's the best time to pitch you?
Right now, there's no good time to pitch me unless I know you. I'm focused on finishing my doctoral degree.
What's the best pitch you ever got?
The one that lead to my TODAY.com piece, "Immigration assignment at North Carolina high school sparks racism debate."
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
I got one once that demanded I take on the whole corrupt Louisiana system because "it's your job and you have to."
What's your favorite drink?
Coffee. That's a food group.
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
On my cell phone! Haha!
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
I'm a big 'alt-media' fan. Right now, my fave is "The Intercept." But that could change. I'm an avid reader of nonfiction related to spies.
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
That I cover everything related to the beat. For instance, I cover media business, not celebrity news. I cover tech security, not do reviews.
