What was your first job as a journalist?
My first paying journalism gig was an internship at the Dallas Morning News, but my 1st real job was at the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
I learned to type on an electric typewriter and have even used a manual one.
How is social media changing news?
It's making it more immediate.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
I can't think of any that accurately portray journalism as I know and practice it.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
A journalist presents critical analyses of the topics they cover. It means weighing evidence and presenting facts, telling the truth.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
via email
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
Livescribe Echo 3 pen and desktop software is probably my most valuable tool.
Who do you wish followed you?
Adam Savage
Why did you become a journalist?
Rampant curiosity mostly. I like digging up information no one else knows and telling people about it.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
I did. The Bullpup mainly covered sports, so that's mostly what I wrote.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
A series on DNA testing. I hope it gives people insight into what DNA tests can and can't tell you.
What's the best pitch you ever got?
Ones that start with "I read your story on X and thought you might be interested in some research ..."
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
Ones asking me to place an editorial article or write about a product release. That's not what Science News does.
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
At home in my workshop, at the movies, or travelling.
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
The Washington Post
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
That I cover biotechnology business. I cover science.
