What was your first job as a journalist?
My first job was as an editorial intern for The Pitch KC.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Yes! My grandmother passed her typewriter down to me. She was a long-time assistant in a law office.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Mary Richards from The Mary Tyler Moore Show.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
It means telling the truth, even if it's uncomfortable.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
I prefer emails of 2-3 paragraphs with relevant links, pictures, and potential sources.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
I use WordPress, Microsoft Word, and Google Docs, as I'm primarily a writer.
What's your favorite social network?
I'm a visual learner! Instagram is my favorite.
Who do you wish followed you?
Melinda Henneberger
Why did you become a journalist?
I love to write in all mediums. Journalism was a natural career progression.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
Yes. Over three years, I was the copy editor, web editor, and editor-in-chief.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
I'm most proud of my months-long investigative piece on the predatory developers and generational poverty plaguing Columbus Park.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
The best quality you can have is earnest curiosity! It's best when you're interested in the topic as a researcher and a reader.
When's the best time to pitch you?
My schedule is flexible and always changing! There's no one "best time," but I check emails several times a day.
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
I've never gotten a bad pitch. There are some stories that I don't feel comfortable or capable of writing well, but I'm always curious.
What's your favorite drink?
Strawberry, mango, or coconut-flavored boba.
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
Spending time outside helps me to recharge. I love paddleboarding and hiking!
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
I love KCUR's KC Adventure series.
