What was your first job as a journalist?
City reporter for my current employer. I started the day after I graduated from journalism school.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Yes, but not for producing journalism. I used one in school.
How is social media changing news?
News no longer is a one-way proposition. Anyone can use social media tools to report news or to talk to reporters.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Ron Burgundy
What does it mean to be a journalist?
First and foremost, you don't believe anything and you always have questions. You want the full story to be told at every opportunity.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
He's always lurking
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
By an email from someone who has done his or her homework. Know who I am and what I do before you pitch.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
The most important things I need to do my job are an Internet connection and a Web browser.
What's your favorite social network?
Twitter. I think it plays a critical role in breaking news and verifying information as news develops. It's fun, too.
Who do you wish followed you?
Susan Orlean. She once called me a genius, so I guess that'll have to do.
Why did you become a journalist?
To inform my community
