Jocelyn Saunders on Muck Rack

Jocelyn Saunders

(She/It)
Australia
As seen in: Farrago Magazine
Covers:  - Neurodiversity - Colonialism - Class - Regional life - Human connection - Media bias - History and storytelling - Mental health and trauma - Australian politics (occasionally)
Doesn't Cover: - The experiences of communities I am not in (ie. the homosexual male experience) - Things I know nothing about (ie. any science) - Sex and sexually explicit content - Religion

Interview

Have you ever used a typewriter?

Yes! I loved it until I lost the ribbon. I am procrastinating buying a new one (its been 8 years).

How is social media changing news?

Imo, its let a different group into controlling information, which has made the public narrative less united, but not necessarily less true.

Who's your favorite fictional journalist?

John Watson, because writing about your insane bff is a fantastic hook for informing the public about crime.

What does it mean to be a journalist?

For me? Getting people thinking, considering things in a way they haven't before. Encouraging empathy.

What tools and software do you use to do your job?

For articles, I use Novlr for the first draft, Google Docs for the second, Word for editing, and the Sketchbook app for illustrations.

Who do you wish followed you?

Good god no one I know or admire. I like to pretend my audience aren't actual people, but just a conglomerate, for my sanity.

Why did you become a journalist?

I wanted to brighten the assault of bad news with a bit of my never-ending ADHD enthusiasm. I'll let you know how that goes.

What story are you most proud of writing or working on?

I quite like my piece on Le Vourdalak, it was a nice mix of critique and tongue-and-cheek bitchiness. And I did the illustrations myself.

What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?

I'm only new but from my couple years, I'd say don't overload yourself. Its important to take time to do something justice.

What's your favorite drink?

Novelty gives my life meaning so I usually don't order the same thing twice. Chai is lovely though, a bit different every time.

When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?

Probably pacing. Or talking at someone.

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