Lindsey Mastis
Los Angeles, Washington, D.C.
Covers:
Artificial Intelligence, Emerging Technology, Health
Emmy Award-Winning Journalist covering AI & Tech | Keynote Speaker
Interview
What was your first job as a journalist?
My first job as a journalist was in middle school, working as a freelance reporter for a community arts magazine that published once a month.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Yes, I have used a typewriter. I got my first for Christmas as a kid, and later used my parents electric typewriter.
How is social media changing news?
With social media, journalists can network and find better news sources through location-based apps like Banjo, Highlight, and Sonar.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
My favorite fictional journalist is Tally from Up Close and Personal, especially because I've reported in many prisons.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
Journalists have a responsibility to uncover atrocities and ensure that the truth gets told.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
The funniest news-related #hashtag is one I dare not repeat.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
I prefer email. If it's a worthwhile story, I can instantly plug notes into my Evernote account. If it's a dud, I can delete it.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
I use Final Cut Pro, Sony EX1 camera, social networking sites, Skype for live shots, and peach tea to get me through the day.
What's your favorite social network?
Right now, I love twitter. I love that instant engagement. But I'm always trying out new social networks. My second favorite is Instagram.
Who do you wish followed you?
Having Bob Woodward follow me on Twitter would be epic...
Why did you become a journalist?
I became a journalist after reading about wartime atrocities against civilians during the Albanian war. I wanted report on genocide.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
I worked for my high school newspaper. I did every job from reporting, to copy editing, to selling ads. My senior year I was Editor-in-Chief.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
Right now, I'm most proud to be working on a series of stories about child survival in India, through the International Reporting Project.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
My advice for aspiring journalists: get an internship. Learn everything you can about newsrooms, video, reporting, and producing.
When's the best time to pitch you?
There's no 'best' time to pitch me. But there are 'worst' times, like during national breaking news events.
Would you like to take the Muck Rack Interview?
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