National Blogger of Boy Culture and author of several books including Boy Culture and ENCYCLOPEDIA MADONNICA 20
What or who inspired you to become a journalist?
I always wanted to be a writer. In the same way that when I write, I almost hear a voice telling me what to write, I always just knew I needed to be a writer in the first place.
What is your favorite story that you have written?
My proudest moment was for Esquire.com — the oral history of “Playguy” that I wrote. I interviewed dozens of people and put myself out there, then had to fact-check relentlessly. It was one of the site’s most successful pieces.
Do you feel like you have a dual responsibility: being queer and a journalist?
I think anything you label as gay or queer all but begs the community to judge it harshly, so yes, I feel a dual responsibility. I think it’s good to feel this way — it spurs me on to be better.
What keeps you passionate about journalism?
I stay passionate by staying curious.
What advice would you have for those wanting to become a journalist?
Being a journalist has led me to meet countless people I’d never have met otherwise. It keeps me from being that kid who stays in his room all the time — which I used to be!
Do you have any future goals or projects you would like to share with us?
I have another Esquire.com piece coming soon — it’s an oral history of the magazine empire anchored by “Mandate,” and explores how these softcore porn magazines were entertaining, political and major steps forward for gay rights. It’s wild — and was two years in the making.
