What was your first job as a journalist?
I had to write emotional stories about members for our annual report for the YMCA.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
I have used a typewriter, changed the ribbon and had tons of whiteout to fix my mistakes.
How is social media changing news?
Many times, people are spreading the news as it happens through social media. The news can take their cues from trending social media topics.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
I love John Grisham!
What does it mean to be a journalist?
It means that I am charged with telling a complete story and communicating something powerful to the masses.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
Everything is funny!
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
I love an email with a captivating title, a few sentences or bullets that leave me curious, what you want from me and your contact info.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
I use Evernote, Canva, Grammarly, Buffer, Microsoft and Hootsuite.
What's your favorite social network?
My favorite social network is Linkedin & Twitter.
Who do you wish followed you?
Angela Rye
Why did you become a journalist?
i love to write about things that matter and approach it from a unique standpoint, give it a different perspective and sometimes humor.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
I did not work for my high school paper. I was too busy making news.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
I am most proud of working on my book, a true crime story.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Don't stop writing.
When's the best time to pitch you?
I am always open for a great story idea.
What's the best pitch you ever got?
I don't think that I have received my best yet.
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
Anything that involves embellishment is awful.
What's your favorite drink?
Pepsi
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
In the community speaking to a crowd.
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
Entrepreneur
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
Bad news, drama, and sensationalism are what sells. Good news, when done right can change hearts and minds.
