What was your first job as a journalist?
I had been writing for Cluckin.net and it's forerunners since 2008 but the answer is my first press pass for the Pig and Poultry fair 2018.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Yes
How is social media changing news?
Social can turn anyone into an eyewitness journalist from the local villager to global news
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Ron Burgundy
What does it mean to be a journalist?
To seek out, certify and share the truth regardless.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
Short and too the point. Say who you are and what you want and don't tell any porkies!
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
Linux, Publii, WordPress, Gimp, Shotcut, Office , AI.
What's your favorite social network?
Pinterest
Who do you wish followed you?
Why did you become a journalist?
There is so much disinformation and there is a right way to do things.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
No.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Listen first and never trade your credibility for clicks likes and short term gain. Stay curious and develop a thick skin.
When's the best time to pitch you?
8 am to 6 pm UK time.
What's the best pitch you ever got?
Hi Neil,
Information required for your 2024/25 tax return
Now that the tax year has ended, we would like to commence work on your tax return for the year ended 5 April 2025 and would therefore be grateful if you would kindly let us have this information.
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
Hi Neil, I hope you and the chicks are thriving this season!
Are you open to a paid blog collaboration (that isn't a guest or sponsorship offer) with a popular consumer brand? Our client is a major website and just wants a simple mention of a specific product or brand of your choice (that you'd mention regardless, like the chick and poultry resources you share) in an existing or upcoming post you're already working on.
This only takes a few minutes, and we’re quick on payments via PayPal. Let me know, and I'd love to send over more details and blogger examples.
Warmly,
Lynette Johnson
What's your favorite drink?
My homemade sparkling red apple cider
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
Walking my spaniel on the moors, tending to my chickens or talking to my tomatoes.
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
Private eye
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
A lot of thinking is poultry is cute and fluffy when there is much more of a connection to food security, diversity and culture.
