What was your first job as a journalist?
At 14 years old, I began writing for my local newspaper, covering high school sports. That was 31 years ago... and I'm still writing.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Yes.
How is social media changing news?
Many times, social media IS the news. It can literally make or break someone or something in the span of an hour.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Peter Parker (photojournalist)
What does it mean to be a journalist?
To be able to report on, or commentate, on a topic in an intelligent, well-informed, and fair way.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
Really, most hashtags that have to do with something that's trending in the entertainment world, because they tend to be pretty clever.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
As a freelancer, I'm pretty much open to anything that comes in to my e-mail inbox. I at least give everything some consideration
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
Laptop, Smartphone, Tablet, and Studio Recording Equipment
What's your favorite social network?
Facebook, as it is where I initially gained my following as a writer, and I have 5,000 followers there.
Who do you wish followed you?
Tony Khan, Cody Rhodes, Michael Jordan, Lebron James, & Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson
Why did you become a journalist?
Because my whole life, I have been a storyteller. And journalism was an extension of that.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
Yes. I was Editor of my high school newspaper, and wrote for my college newspaper, as well.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
A story that I wrote about a young lady who was an athlete and suffered from clinical depression. It was very honest and helped a lot of my readers
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Not everyone is going to like what you do, and that's okay. Stay confident in your abilities and don't let critics rattle you.
When's the best time to pitch you?
Anytime between 9 AM to 9 PM, US Central Time
What's the best pitch you ever got?
The chance to cover a special needs young man who got the chance to attend his first sporting event live.
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
Anything that had to do with local politics. When I worked for a regional newspaper, I would get those every now and then.
What's your favorite drink?
Sweet Tea
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
Working around my house, exercising, or watching television
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
TIME, Newsweek, and The St. Louis Post-Dispatch
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
That journalist can't know much if they didn't play the game. I was a basketball and baseball player, but my biggest strength is covering NFL
