What was your first job as a journalist?
I worked for the Sixer Sense as a volunteer contributor.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
I did as a child. My mom was a court stenographer.
How is social media changing news?
It allows news to be accessed instantly, for better or worse.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Homelander probably killed them off in an episode of The Boys.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
To provide fair, accurate, and representative information about the communities I serve. I do not "give a voice to the voiceless," nor do I subscribe to that concept. My job is to amply the voices of communities by sharing their experiences.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
That seems to change more than the seasons.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
I prefer to be pitched via email.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
Microsoft Word, Google Docs, and WordPress.
What's your favorite social network?
Twitter.
Who do you wish followed you?
Sports and music enthusiasts/talents.
Why did you become a journalist?
I have a natural love of storytelling and I enjoy learning from the experiences of others.
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?
My favorite stories involved various musicians I've interviewed, as well as my story on a young business owner and community staple from Memphis, TN.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Pursue opportunities that you are passionate about. Do not compromise your integrity for money or a "hot" story.
When's the best time to pitch you?
In the morning or afternoon.
What's the best pitch you ever got?
I can't remember the best one, but I'm sure it was clear and intentional.
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
What they wanted was likely unclear and vague.
What's your favorite drink?
In a past life, it was Pepsi. Currently, I enjoy lemon water.
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
I'm likely watching sports, listening to a podcast, or listening to music.
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
I enjoy reading The Players' Tribune. I'm also a big fan of no bells, an independent music journalism platform.
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
My biggest complaint is how everyday people are caricaturized by folks who haven't spent time in these communities.
