Zackary Goncz on Muck Rack

Zackary Goncz

(He/Him)
New York
Covers:  entertainment, movies, television, comics, sports, politics, travel, risk management, insurance
Zackary Goncz combines his professional role with a passion for travel, writing, and politics. Visit ZackaryGoncz.net. Takahopost.com & @stillcurtain

Interview

What was your first job as a journalist?

College Newspaper, Behrend Beacon

Have you ever used a typewriter?

Yes, I have used a typewriter! There's something nostalgic and satisfying about the tactile experience of typing on one. The sound of the keys clacking and the rhythm of pressing down on each letter gives a unique feeling of connection to the words being written. While I appreciate the convenience of digital devices, there's a charm to typewriters that can inspire creativity in a different way. It’s fun to think about how writers of the past crafted their works on these machines!

How is social media changing news?

Speeding up communication

Who's your favorite fictional journalist?

My favorite fictional journalist has to be Lois Lane from the Superman franchise. She’s the epitome of a bold, relentless journalist, and I’ve admired her character across the many movies she’s appeared in over the years. From Margot Kidder’s portrayal in the 1978 Superman to Amy Adams in Man of Steel, Lois has always been fierce, dedicated, and completely fearless in the face of danger.What I love about her is her unwavering commitment to the truth. Lois Lane doesn’t just write puff pieces or chase easy stories—she’s always after the big scoop, no matter the risk. Whether it’s exposing government corruption or investigating shady organizations like LexCorp, she’s not afraid to dive headfirst into the action. That level of drive is inspiring, and it makes for such a compelling character.Lois’s tenacity also gives her a lot of depth. It’s not just about getting the story—it’s about standing up for what’s right. Even when the stakes are super high (pun intended), she remains true to her ethics as a journalist. There’s also this amazing dynamic between her career and her relationship with Clark Kent/Superman. She’s not defined by her love life, but the balance between her personal and professional lives adds richness to her character. I think her relationship with Clark works because they see each other as equals—there’s mutual respect there.On top of all that, she’s quick-witted and sharp. I love how she can out-talk just about anyone in the room, holding her own even in front of powerful figures. It’s especially satisfying to see her call out egotistical villains like Lex Luthor with no hesitation. And let’s not forget how clever she is—figuring out Clark Kent’s identity when no one else can? Genius.But my favorite thing about Lois is how human she is. Despite all the superhero chaos around her, she’s still relatable. She faces self-doubt, makes mistakes, and feels fear, but she never lets those things stop her. It’s a great reminder that strength isn’t just about physical power—it’s about resilience and heart.Lois Lane isn’t perfect, which makes her even more interesting. She’s flawed, stubborn, and sometimes gets herself into trouble because of her impulsiveness, but those qualities just make her feel more real. Plus, without Lois’s daring spirit, Superman wouldn’t have the same moral grounding. She’s often the one pushing him to think about what’s best for humanity beyond just fighting bad guys.In a world of superheroes, Lois Lane proves that you don’t need powers to be a hero. That’s why she’ll always be my favorite fictional journalist—she’s gutsy, driven, and unapologetically herself.

What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?

One of the funniest news-related hashtags I’ve seen is

How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?

When pitching me stories, I like it to be concise, relevant, and tailored to my interests. Here’s what stands out:Personalized Pitch: If the story aligns with my focus on healthcare, business, law, finance, or even sports, highlight that connection. Showing you understand my interests goes a long way.Value Proposition: Tell me why this story matters or how it will engage my audience. Is it insightful, unique, or problem-solving? I want stories that bring value.Supporting Details: While I appreciate brevity, a few key stats, quotes, or facts that back up the story help me decide if it’s a fit.Timeliness: If it’s tied to current trends, new tech, or emerging issues in healthcare, law, or business, it’s more likely to capture my attention.When pitching me stories, I like it to be concise, relevant, and tailored to my interests. Here’s what stands out:Personalized Pitch: If the story aligns with my focus on healthcare, business, law, finance, or even sports, highlight that connection. Showing you understand my interests goes a long way.Value Proposition: Tell me why this story matters or how it will engage my audience. Is it insightful, unique, or problem-solving? I want stories that bring value.Supporting Details: While I appreciate brevity, a few key stats, quotes, or facts that back up the story help me decide if it’s a fit.Timeliness: If it’s tied to current trends, new tech, or emerging issues in healthcare, law, or business, it’s more likely to capture my attention.Clear CTA: Let me know how you envision collaboration. Are you looking for a feature, a blog, or co-authorship?

What's your favorite social network?

LinkedIn

Who do you wish followed you?

No preference

When's the best time to pitch you?

Morning

What's the best pitch you ever got?

N/A

When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?

2/2ChatGPT said:ChatGPTWhen I’m not at a computer, I imagine myself indulging in entertainment—either watching thought-provoking movies or bingeing TV shows. I’d dive into comics for a bit of escapism, especially those with complex characters and story arcs. In sports, I’d probably be following key games or events, savoring the thrill of competition. Politics intrigues me, so I’d stay updated on current affairs, trying to understand the shifting dynamics. Travel sparks my curiosity too, so I’d dream of exploring new destinations and cultures, whether through planning or reading travel stories. Wherever I "go," it's all about curiosity and storytelling!

Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?

Aside from my own, I enjoy reading The Atlantic. It offers in-depth analysis on a wide range of topics, from culture and politics to science and technology. The articles are thought-provoking and often feature diverse perspectives, making it a great source for understanding complex issues and trends. I also appreciate the quality of writing and the way they tackle current events with nuance and depth.

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