What was your first job as a journalist?
I freelanced for an alternative weekly. It was a fun gig, and I'll never forget the generosity of my editors who helped me along the way.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Yes.
How is social media changing news?
Social media is a platform that's useful for breaking news and finding sources. I see it as powerful and overwhelming.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
What's a ?
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
Email or by telephone.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
Laptop and wi-fi.
What's your favorite social network?
LinkedIn
Who do you wish followed you?
Anderson Cooper
Why did you become a journalist?
My curiosity and constant need to ask questions led me to the profession.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
My high school didn't have one, but my middle school had a tv news station. I was the head anchor.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
I once did a story for public radio about the origin of twerking. It started in Miami during the booty bass music era.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
On your worst day, you will learn the most.
When's the best time to pitch you?
Monday morning.
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
I don't recall the actual pitch, but the subject line read: Desperate for coverage. Don't do this ever.
What's your favorite drink?
Black coffee.
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
You can find me out with friends, enjoying a nice meal.
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
That I get a bunch of free tickets to events.
