What was your first job as a journalist?
I worked for free at an arts and entertainment blog site called LA Splash. Great first-time experience learning how to write on deadline.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
I actually used to have the next gen typewriter (read: typewriter with a digital interface). I remember using it endlessly growing up.
How is social media changing news?
Oy. I only have 140 characters? Here ya go: Print is not being taken over by social media in the same way radio wasn't taken over by TV
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Choose any Stephen King character that's a "writer" and you got it.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
Getting it right, and doing no harm.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
Through e-mail or over dinner.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
All SM platforms, I'm an Adobe and Mac snob. And my trusty smartphone.
What's your favorite social network?
I have a new love in Vimeo.
Who do you wish followed you?
On Twitter? Rachel Maddow. In real life? Neil DeGrasse Tyson.
Why did you become a journalist?
Initially, my love of writing got me into news, but I learned the impact media had on educating people. I wanted to inspire change in people
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
I can't even remember if we had a newspaper. I was in Speech and Debate during high school, news was never on my radar till I started caring.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
My 1st semester as EIC in college, I wrote about CEO non-profit salaries in our destitute college neighborhood. People had no clue!
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Never be afraid to her "No." If they push you, push back harder.
When's the best time to pitch you?
Anytime after happy hour.
