What was your first job as a journalist?
As a full-fledged journalist? I started writing for the Purdue Exponent in Lafayette, Ind., in the fall of 1980.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
I'm dating myself, but, of course I have! Teletype, too!
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Clark Kent. I'm a long-time geek and nerd, which means I'm a sucker for superheroes.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
I am a chronicler of record. I get to speak the truth, and make sure everyone knows about it. That is important to everyone.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
As many as I need; I realize that's a flippant answer, but there are literally too many to list.
Why did you become a journalist?
Short answer? I wanted to change the world. Longer one? I figured that it was a way to learn about everything on an ongoing basis.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
No, in high school, I was the weekend DJ for our local radio station, however...
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Don't do it if you're in it for the money. This is a job you have to love. This is a job you have to love if you want to change the world.
What's your favorite drink?
Like most journalists, I mainline coffee -- but in my spare time, I enjoy good craft beer.
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
That all we do is regurgitate content from the newscasts. We produce so much more original content than most people realize.
