Arts and Culture Reporter for Colorado Public Radio
What or who inspired you to become a journalist?
My earliest vision of being a journalist goes back to a high school freshman civics class. There were several journalists whose work kept that inspiration alive, and a PBS station gave me a chance.
What is your favorite story that you have written?
My favorite story is usually the one I’m working on— Here are a few recent highlights:
https://www.cpr.org/2022/09/23/terri-sternberg-violinist-homelessness
https://www.cpr.org/2022/12/02/club-q-colorado-springs-its-a-wonderful-life
https://www.cpr.org/2023/08/23/childrens-hospital-denver-sing-me-a-story-project
https://www.cpr.org/2023/10/12/anniversary-interview-matthew-shepard-family-lgbtq-rights
https://www.cpr.org/2023/10/04/matthew-shepard-laramie-project-arvada-center-lgbt
Do you feel like you have a dual responsibility for being queer and a journalist?
My first responsibility is to bring fair and accurate reporting to my audience. Within that, I feel the responsibility that my work can be a reflection on other LGBT journalists, so I must try to exceed expectations just to stay even sometimes. The responsibility to do well, and hold the door open for other trans journalists.
Do you believe you have a role to play in helping preserve LGBTQ+ history and culture in your work?
Whether it was Philip L. Graham or journalist Alan Barth, who first described news as “the first rough draft of history” the spirit holds true in our work today, and that includes LGBTQ+ history and culture. For some stories, I hope I provide access to voices others may not even consider, and for others, it is important to step aside and allow others to report, to protect the story from an appearance of bias. The risk of becoming a distraction for anyone who would easily dismiss it as self-interest.
What keeps you passionate about journalism?
The opportunity to introduce the community to fascinating people they might not otherwise meet, exploring the overlooked connections between people, and uncovering truth.
What advice would you have for those wanting to become a journalist?
Become a well-rounded, community-engaged multimedia journalist. Learn to do everything—reporting, producing, writing, videography, and editing. That makes you more employable. But most importantly, immerse yourself in the community you cover. Stay curious, build relationships, and develop a deep understanding of the people’s interests, concerns, and experiences. This connection to the community is essential for identifying stories that resonate and make a difference. Technical skills are vital, but it’s that investment in the community that will elevate your journalism and allow you to tell stories with authenticity, nuance, and authority.
How has being a journalist impacted your personal life?
Rewarding work can be an important part of self worth, and that has a positive impact on one’s personal life. However, this is a time when journalism faces doubt and scorn from some. There are real fears around safety sometimes, which can carry over to my personal life. That is counterbalanced when I read an email or message from someone who needs to hear the stories we cover, or sees my work as evidence they can pursue journalism too. That fortifies me.
