What was your first job as a journalist?
I freelanced for various publications in college. My first staff job was as general assignment reporter for the Suncoast News.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
I have, and I collect typewriters made before 1950.
How is social media changing news?
It's requiring transparency with journalists, holding journalists accountable and enabling conversation between journalists and the audience.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Spider Jerusalem from the Transmetropolitan graphic novel series.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
Journalism is about storytelling, giving voice to the voiceless,and sifting through piles of crap to find newsworthy gems.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
is go-to hash tag for journalist humor.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
By email.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
iPhone, iPad, Marantz recorder and various mics, Canon 5D Mark iii.
What's your favorite social network?
Instagram. I love the visual focus and it seems to have less political vitriol than other platforms.
Who do you wish followed you?
Dave Barry!
Why did you become a journalist?
It was a way to make my love of storytelling, writing, multimedia, and the pursuit of truth into a career that (somewhat) pays my bills.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
I was the opinion editor my sophomore year and editor-in-chief my junior and senior years.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Learn multimedia skills, seek out non-traditional internships or "create" your own, create an online portfolio, and network like a fiend.
