What was your first job as a journalist?
I was an intern/Writer and Copy Editor at the Chicago Defender - One of the oldest Black newspapers in the US.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Yes, I am old enough to have used an IBM Selectric.
How is social media changing news?
Not necessarily for the best. While choice is good, it's not for news. People silo their news to a dangerous level. Jan. 6th is proof.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Mary Richards.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
Educating the community and encouraging people to take action. Telling the truth when no one wants to hear it. Giving a reason to care.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
With enthusiasm and background information. Even better over lunch.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
I'm old fashioned: I research the subject online, develop questions and give them a call. Then I think about it for awhile, and write.
What's your favorite social network?
Facebook. Instagram.
Who do you wish followed you?
Jason Momoa. Online and in person.
Why did you become a journalist?
I watched Watergate on TV at 12, and knew the public had a right to transparency about events and people shaping their lives.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
I worked for the Loyola Phoenix in College as a copy editor and editorial writer. No HS paper.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
Interviewing Prince. Covering the 35W Bridge Collapse Live, Conceiving, Producing and Hosting 'The Buzz' Arts and Entertainment.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Dig deep - no surface news. Care about the people you report on. Take nothing on face value. Stay hungry. Be excellent in all you do.
When's the best time to pitch you?
Mornings while I'm still receptive and not overloaded.
What's the best pitch you ever got?
"Do you want to interview me?" - Prince.
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
"Have you heard 'The Truth'?" - Prince
What's your favorite drink?
Red Bull.
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
Ha! Trick question. The computer is ALWAYS on my lap.
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
Artful Living. JCK Magazine. Trend Magazine.
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
What we do is glamorous. It's easy to write a story. That you're a sell out.
