What was your first job as a journalist?
Writing for Helsingin Sanomat.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
I had to actually learn how to type on one for school back in the early 90s. I'm glad computers became a thing so quick.
How is social media changing news?
You have to be constantly putting out content and long form material is suffering from it. This also leads to a lot non-stories.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Tintin and Spider Jerusalem.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
You have a responsibility to your readers to be honest at all times. Even if it's hard.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
I can't remember, but I will never not laugh at anything pun-related.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
I'm game for anything. I've had some incredible stories come from chance meetings and the odd "wouldn't it be great if?" moments.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
Microsoft Office Suite and Google Drive.
What's your favorite social network?
Twitter, but I'm not a big fan of social media to begin with. (He says on a social networking site.)
Who do you wish followed you?
Anyone I look up to and respect.
Why did you become a journalist?
It allows me to talk and learn more about the things I love.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
We didn't have one, but I would write reviews for friends and family on early forums and newsgroups.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
I'm always proud when I make a connection to an interview subject. It doesn't come naturally, so when it works, it's a joy.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Just keep at it. The world is changing so fast you can't wait for anyone to give you permission. Go and write and write and write.
When's the best time to pitch you?
Finland is located far up north in a wonky timezone, so I'm open to pitches at any hour and will respond to them within a day.
What's the best pitch you ever got?
"You look like you can put a sentence together, why don't you write for me?"
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
"How would you like to write a screenplay for the exposure?"
What's your favorite drink?
Water. Whiskey. Whiskey and water.
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
Reading on the sofa, at the movies, walking my dog, or asleep.
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
Empire Magazine, New Yorker, RogerEbert.com.
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
That all we do is sit around and watch movies.
