What was your first job as a journalist?
I was an on air radio reporter at a commercial station outside of Chicago at age 14.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Yes, early in my career we used IBM electric typewriters and I have used a manual typewriter.
How is social media changing news?
The traditional 24/7 news cycle has been turned on its ear. The news never stops, even when the cable channels are in reruns.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Max Schumacher, the fictional president of the network news department at UBN, played by William Holden in the movie Network.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
That the First Amendment is first for a good reason! We have an obligation to gather and report the news as accurately as we can.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
I don't know...good question.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
E-mail
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
MS, Grammarly,
What's your favorite social network?
Linked in for professional relationships. Twitter for business. FB for personal stuff.
Who do you wish followed you?
A young journalist who is hungry to break stories and develop sources who comes into work with a smile.
Why did you become a journalist?
I love to tell a great story and I love to write. Whether it's in a broadcast setting or print, a great story is a great story!
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
Yes, I was a sports writer and I also worked at two commercial radio stations outside of Chicago, while in high school as a newscaster.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
The one that I am working on right now.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Learn to write and take it seriously. It is the foundation of our work. Also, don't be intimidated. Ask the tough questions.
When's the best time to pitch you?
Before 9am
What's the best pitch you ever got?
The one that I accept next,
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
There are too many to mention.
What's your favorite drink?
Lite Arnold Palmer
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
With family members.
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
The Washington Post, the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the Hill and ESPN.com
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
That what we cover is boring. It is fascinating.
