What was your first job as a journalist?
I worked at a local radio station as their only news reporter. I had to chase, produce, edit and talk about it.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Yes. One time in kindergarten. I'm glad I have a TV now.
How is social media changing news?
Rather waiting for the next day, or the 5pm news...We're able to get update almost instantaneously.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Ron Burgundy. By FAR!
What does it mean to be a journalist?
Keeping people informed with the latest news that can affect their environment and culture.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
I already answered that.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
Keep it short and sweet. Clear and concise and make sure the story intrigues me. I love dialogue where I don't have to prep as much. Ha!
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
Google Docs.
What's your favorite social network?
Twitter. It will always be called twitter to me - I don't care if Elon owns it.
Who do you wish followed you?
Stevie Wonder
Why did you become a journalist?
To inform, to engage and to also inspire true journalistic integrity
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?
I most recently did a conversation concerning the 50 Cent/Diddy Doc - we kept it professional without discrediting his character.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Please be true to the conversation that you are writing. Everything doesn't have to be shock value.
When's the best time to pitch you?
During the day...I like my sleep.
What's the best pitch you ever got?
I got a pitch from an upcoming artist about his new music. Let's just say he's one of the biggest artists in the world right now.
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
I haven't received one.
What's your favorite drink?
Rum and coke with a lemon wedge on the side...
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
Outside with my wife..Watching a movie or taking in some concerts.
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
I'm a huge NME guy.
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
It can sometimes be too long.
