What was your first job as a journalist?
My current job is my first as a journalist. Before TopSpeed, I self-published creative writing, mainly prose.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
No, though my grandmother had one when I was young that we played with as kids.
How is social media changing news?
The speed at which we receive it; stories develop, peak, and die-out very quickly. It also gives everyone a platform to discuss said stories.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Kal-El (Clark Kent)
What does it mean to be a journalist?
It means leaving your biases at home and providing relevant, factual, intriguing news and stories to readers.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
Right now, the P Diddy scandal has produced some very meme-worthy content.
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
I don't require much more than a topic and general direction; research and informed story building is my strong suit.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
Primarily a content management system (CMS), though various tools, including photo and video editing tools, see regular usage.
What's your favorite social network?
Instagram
Who do you wish followed you?
Bon Iver, Online Ceramics, Motor Trend, Car And Driver
Why did you become a journalist?
I wanted to shift from creative writing, and I have a strong passion for cars. Valnet and TopSpeed gave me an opportunity and I dove in.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
Nope.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
Embargo pieces are great. Being among the first to break the story is a rewarding feeling.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Be aggressive. Be confident. Earn respect and credibility through your accuracy and tenacity. Always be receptive to criticism. Keep evolving
When's the best time to pitch you?
In the morning, after coffee.
What's the best pitch you ever got?
I love the classic car niche stories, like the 10 Rarest Classic Corvettes in Existence, or How The Taurus Saved Ford.
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
I haven't gotten many bad pitches, though covering a story that has already been milked dry is annoying.
What's your favorite drink?
Dr. Pepper
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
Walking my dogs, relaxing with my wife and kids, or playing video games.
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
Classic Motor News, Hemmings, Game Informer, Sight and Sound, GQ
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
I haven't personally been pressed too hard, yet, though I'm sure there are plenty of misperceptions about automotive journalism.
