What was your first job as a journalist?
I was an intern at a major market radio station. Anchors used to let me write their copy. A reporter let me gather her field tape.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Yes. And a reel-to-reel tape deck. I'm pretty sure I'm one of few people in my age group that can cut and splice real tape.
How is social media changing news?
Social media is taking the middleman out of journalism, allowing journalists to produce independent of a large company
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
None. Fictional journalists tend to be portrayed as scandal-seeking tabloid rats. I did enjoy Al Pacino as Lowell Bergman, though.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
Journalism is sacred. It's professional voyeurism intended to benefit the community and not harm a private individual.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
Send me emails. If I'm interested, I'll contact you.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
My indispensable smartphone with audio editing and live production apps.
What's your favorite social network?
Twitter. Down and dirty. Effective.
Who do you wish followed you?
Any "Star Trek" cast member.
Why did you become a journalist?
I'm good at telling stories.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
I did! I was both a reporter and an editor. I was selected to be the Editor-In-Chief my senior year, but opted for a different challenge.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
I hope my reporting from Haiti shed some light on conditions in a neglected country mere miles from the U.S.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Concentrate on your ability to interview and re-tell. Gadgets, expense accounts and fancy clothes won't come without those skills.
When's the best time to pitch you?
Send your emails whenever. I breeze through them regularly.
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
Home. Relaxing.
