What was your first job as a journalist?
My first job as a journalist was writing economic and business news for a local financial publication. I covered a range of topics, from small-scale business developments to macroeconomic shifts affecting the region. It was a great learning experience, as I had to quickly get up to speed on different industries and financial trends while honing my writing skills. That role laid the foundation for my transition into more global, in-depth reporting in economics.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Yes, I’ve used a typewriter! I appreciate the nostalgia and simplicity of it, even though I’m much more accustomed to working on a computer these days. There's something special about the tactile feel of the keys and the sound they make, but in today’s fast-paced world, digital tools just make life a lot easier for journalism.
How is social media changing news?
Social media has transformed the way news is consumed and shared. It allows for real-time updates, democratizing the flow of information and making it easier for people to access news from diverse sources. However, it also poses challenges with the spread of misinformation and the rise of sensationalism. As a journalist, I think it’s important to leverage social media for its immediacy and reach, while also maintaining the standards of accuracy and integrity that traditional journalism values. It's a tool that can amplify important stories, but it also requires careful curation.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
My favorite fictional journalist has to be Clark Kent (Superman). While his superpowers are extraordinary, it’s his curiosity, dedication to uncovering the truth, and his commitment to justice that stand out to me as a journalist. He always seeks to tell the stories that matter, even when doing so puts him in difficult situations. It’s that balance of human integrity and dedication to making the world better through reporting that I admire.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
Being a journalist means being a storyteller and a truth-seeker. It's about digging deep into complex issues, analyzing data, and presenting information in a way that informs and empowers others. A journalist has the responsibility to provide a clear, accurate, and unbiased view of the world, especially when it comes to topics that shape society, like economics and business. It's a role that requires curiosity, integrity, and a passion for uncovering the story beneath the surface.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
One of the funniest news-related hashtags I’ve seen is
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
I prefer to be pitched with a clear, concise email that highlights the key angle of the story and why it’s relevant to my coverage of global economics and financial markets. Include any credible data or expert sources, as well as timing details if it’s a time-sensitive story. Personalization is important—show that you’ve done your research and understand what I cover. A well-organized pitch with a compelling hook makes all the difference!
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
As a journalist, I rely on a mix of tools to help me with research, writing, and staying organized. For research, I use databases like Google Scholar, JSTOR, and Reuters for reliable economic and financial news. I also use Excel for data analysis and visualization. For writing and editing, I use Google Docs for collaboration and Grammarly to ensure accuracy. Social media platforms like Twitter are essential for staying updated on breaking news and connecting with experts. For the business side of things, I also rely on Trello to keep track of deadlines and story progress.
What's your favorite social network?
My favorite social network is Twitter. It’s a great platform for staying updated on the latest trends in economics and finance, while also engaging with industry experts and thought leaders. The real-time conversations make it an invaluable resource for anyone in business or economics.
Who do you wish followed you?
I’d love for economists, financial analysts, and global policymakers to follow me. It would be exciting to engage in insightful discussions and exchange ideas about the future of the global economy. I also appreciate emerging journalists and young professionals in the industry—we can share perspectives, learn from each other, and push for more meaningful conversations in the media landscape.
Why did you become a journalist?
I became a journalist because I’ve always been passionate about understanding how the world works, especially when it comes to economics and business. Writing allows me to take complex issues and make them more accessible to others, while also staying deeply engaged with the global financial landscape. I believe that good journalism not only informs but empowers readers to make better decisions, whether they’re investors, policymakers, or just curious about how the world’s economy is evolving.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
Yes, I did work for my high school newspaper! I started out as a reporter, writing about a range of topics, from school events to local issues. Over time, I took on more responsibilities, eventually becoming an editor. That experience sparked my interest in journalism and taught me a lot about storytelling, deadlines, and the power of a well-crafted article. It was a great foundation that led me to pursue a career in business and economics journalism.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
I’m most proud of a feature I wrote analyzing the economic impacts of recent EU regulatory changes on emerging markets. It involved months of research, interviews with policymakers, and a deep dive into complex economic data. The piece not only highlighted the challenges but also explored potential solutions for businesses navigating these changes. It was a rewarding experience to bring a complicated issue to life in a way that was accessible and useful to a broad audience, and the feedback from readers confirmed that the story made a real impact.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
My advice to aspiring journalists is to stay curious and never stop learning. The best journalists are those who are genuinely interested in the world around them and who ask questions that dig deeper. It’s also crucial to develop a strong foundation in research, as the ability to find accurate, reliable sources is key. Don’t be afraid to take risks and tell stories that matter, even if they’re challenging or unpopular. Finally, be patient with yourself—journalism is a craft that improves with time, and persistence pays off.
When's the best time to pitch you?
The best time to pitch me is during the weekdays, ideally between 11 AM and 5 PM. That’s when I’m most likely to be working on new stories or reviewing pitches. I prefer pitches to be concise, well-researched, and directly relevant to my coverage areas of global economics, financial markets, and business trends. A solid, newsworthy angle always helps! Feel free to reach out, and I’ll do my best to get back to you in a timely manner.
What's the best pitch you ever got?
The best pitch I ever received was one that was highly relevant, well-researched, and tailored to my interests. It came from a PR professional who understood the nuances of my work in economics and business journalism. The pitch offered new insights on a timely economic trend that I hadn’t yet covered, along with credible data and expert commentary. It made my job easier by providing everything I needed to dive straight into the story, and it was a piece I ended up writing about in-depth.
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
The worst pitch I’ve ever received was one that was completely irrelevant to my work. It was a generic email about a product launch that had nothing to do with economics, business, or the topics I cover. Not only was the subject line misleading, but the pitch itself didn’t provide any value or insight. A good pitch should be tailored to the journalist’s interests, provide something newsworthy, and demonstrate an understanding of what the journalist covers. It’s all about relevance and substance.
What's your favorite drink?
My favorite drink is black coffee. It’s the perfect way to kickstart my day and stay focused while working through complex economic analyses or writing. I love the simplicity and energy it provides, especially during long hours of research and writing.
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
When I’m not at a computer, I’m most likely outdoors, enjoying a walk or hike to clear my mind and recharge. I also love reading—whether it’s a good book on history, economics, or something entirely different. If I'm in the mood to unwind, you'll probably find me at a café, sipping coffee and people-watching. I believe it's important to balance work with moments of relaxation to stay creative and focused.
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
Aside from my own work, I really enjoy reading The Economist and Financial Times. Both publications offer in-depth analysis of global economic trends, business strategies, and political developments, which aligns with my interests. I also appreciate Harvard Business Review for its thought-provoking articles on leadership, strategy, and innovation. These publications keep me informed and offer fresh perspectives on the issues I cover.
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
The most common misperception about my beat is that economics and business journalism is only about numbers and financial reports. While data and statistics are essential, my work is much more about understanding the broader context—how global economic trends, policy decisions, and business strategies impact individuals, industries, and societies. It’s not just about charts and graphs; it’s about storytelling and making sense of complex, interconnected issues that shape our world.
