What was your first job as a journalist?
Broadcast journalist for Wisconsin Public Radio. I was in college and spent most of my time crying in the production room.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Yes. Age 6.
How is social media changing news?
It erases the barrier between writer and reader, creating a greater sense of accountability and responsibility.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Kolchak: The Night Stalker
What does it mean to be a journalist?
To equip readers with the information needed to make this world a better place. Not all stories are pleasant, but knowledge is power.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
I had a good time with the debacle.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
If written, I'd prefer exclamation marks be excluded.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
Headset, keyboard, screen, music. Oh, and stale beef jerky.
What's your favorite social network?
Twitter
Who do you wish followed you?
Jerry Seinfeld
Why did you become a journalist?
To be a voice to the voiceless. Cliche, but true.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
Yes, the Denfeld Criterion. I wrote humor pieces on the various aspects of life that really ticked me off. Looking back, they were horrible.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
I once interviewed a man who entered the U.S. as an illegal immigrant. His story was fascinating, and I was honored he shared it with me.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Go anywhere. Do anything, within good reason.
