What was your first job as a journalist?
My first paid job was working on my college newspaper, The Diamondback. The first job of my career was reporter/researcher, The Miami Herald.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Yes, I wrote my first book in middle school on our family typewriter.
How is social media changing news?
People have always loved sharing information, whether pontificating, preaching, gossiping, publishing. Social media allows for all of it.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Lois Lane
What does it mean to be a journalist?
We are information gatherers, watchdogs on society. We, as is said, comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
Ah, I'd rather not say.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
E-mail
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
I use Excel often. I also use online databases to research people's backgrounds.
What's your favorite social network?
I most often use Facebook and Twitter.
Who do you wish followed you?
Everyone.
Why did you become a journalist?
The Freudian analysis would say that it was a way to get attention from my father, a news junkie and educator.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
Yes, I worked on my high school newspaper as a reporter, covering news, features and sports as well as advertising manager.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
I've have enjoyed many stories for different reasons. The current series of stories on nuclear issues have been the most challenging.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
My best advice is to stay curious and care about people. And become the best writer you can so you can help others understand what learn.
When's the best time to pitch you?
Always open to pitches, but I might have to ignore you when on deadline or playing my trumpet.
