What was your first job as a journalist?
There was a blog called "Homeless in Santa Barbara", edited by Isabelle Walker
How is social media changing news?
More people lack ability to scrutinize their own biases, lack critical thinking skills and need a healthy dose of skepticism.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Lou Grant
What does it mean to be a journalist?
One must be concerned with capturing what really happened, as well as what it means
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
Dictionary, Thesaurus, Wikipedia, Wayback Machine, Google
Why did you become a journalist?
When our stories provide a sense of history, social responsibility and concern for the common good, they can foster a democracy rooted in the public interest and promote a society that embraces an inclusive social contract.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
Cell Phones and Civility
What's your favorite drink?
Fruit Smoothy
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
Riding my bike along the beach
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
The Guardian
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
I like opening up seemingly insignificant happenings and finding significance
