Lauren Coughlin
Verified
Covers:
restaurants, foodservice, foodservice equipment, local government, nonprofit and business news, environmental news, human interest pieces and just about anything else that comes my way!
Doesn't Cover:
live sports (but sports features are still fair game)
Writer/editor. Wifer & bad joke teller to Joe. Mama & personal chef to Desmond and J.J. Herder/snuggler of Pippa and Roohi, our rather-wild former street dogs.
Interview
What was your first job as a journalist?
In 2009, I earned a small-but-sweet paycheck from my college newspaper, The Western Courier, and I haven't stopped writing since.
How is social media changing news?
It's a blessing and a curse. The credible information is out there -- it's just not always what people choose to pay attention to.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
I love the gumption of Sloan Sabbith, but my curiosity was nurtured by Nancy Drew, who could always get to the bottom of any mystery.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
It's an incredible privilege that I do not take lightly. Without the public's trust in journalism and journalists, it's hopeless.
Why did you become a journalist?
To inform and inspire. I wanted to (and still want to) use my love of grammar and writing for something bigger than myself.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
Yes, I distinctly remember crashing a local band's practice for a profile on them. I also did man on the street (student in the hall) pieces.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Take pride in your byline no matter what story you are penning. It just may be more important than you realize.
What's your favorite drink?
Coffee, coffee and then some more coffee.
Would you like to take the Muck Rack Interview?
Create a Muck Rack profile.