What was your first job as a journalist?
My first paid gig was writing about 'The Hobbit' and 'Game of Thrones' for Yahoo! UK as part of their Contributor Network
Have you ever used a typewriter?
I have actually, but only to write up Petty Cash slips at work.
How is social media changing news?
I don't think anyone's really aware of the full extent of social media's effect on news.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
As a comic book nerd, Peter Parker of course! (I know he's a photographer, but he counts) Fine, Ben Ulrich or Robbie Robertson then.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
Telling the truth with words.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
I cannot think of a single one right now. These things tend to come and go.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
I really don't mind. If I have an issue with it I'll let the individuals know how to change it for next time!
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
Mostly my trusty laptop and Microsoft Word. Anything else depends on the job
What's your favorite social network?
Honestly, Twitter. I don't really 'get' Instagram and Facebook is shady!
Who do you wish followed you?
Sir David Attenborough.
Why did you become a journalist?
I've always wanted to write. Ever since I can remember. Journalism is a way to do that and meet people at the same time.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
My school didn't have a newspaper, I did start my short-lived college magazine as the editor though.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
My favourite story was my interview with WWE wrestler Chris Jericho, because it was super fun!
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Keep plugging away. It might happen tomorrow, it might never happen. But keep going, always go for every opportunity.
When's the best time to pitch you?
Anytime!
What's the best pitch you ever got?
A newspaper based in Bahrain paid me to write film reviews for a while. That was really cool!
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
I was once offered $20 to write a 1500 article on financial terms. Not for me.
What's your favorite drink?
Coke
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
Watching films, or managing a cinema. Essentially around films
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
I really enjoy Empire film magazine, and Film Stories.
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
Because you're writing about film and television and sports that it isn't really work, but there's a lot more to it than sitting and watching
