Frances Langum
- Associate Editor, Crooks and Liars
- Host, The Professional Left Podcast with Driftglass and Blue Gal
Central, Springfield
@bluegal.bsky.social
Interview
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Yes, I'm that old.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
Getting up knowing you're going to be writing something that others will read. And it's on your mind as you brush your teeth.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
#PPSellsBabyParts being used by someone who wanted more fact-checking.
What's your favorite social network?
Twitter
Why did you become a journalist?
Because of Bush v. Gore. Thanks, Supreme Court! No, wait....
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
Yes! I was editor in chief!
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
I'm very proud of the podcast I do weekly with my husband Driftglass. It's called The Professional Left.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Write what interests you. You have to have an obsessive interest in your subject to avoid burnout.
What's your favorite drink?
I like water. But I love coffee. And alcoholic-- give me a glass of stiff red wine with a capful of Grand Marnier. "Wine with a bump"
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
Knitting.
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
I like political humor. Mock Paper Scissors, Wonkette, and various Tumblrs.
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
That I, as a liberal blogger, sit at home with Cheetos dust on my chest. Cheetos. Ew.
Would you like to take the Muck Rack Interview?
Create a Muck Rack profile.