Why Journalism?

I like to talk about Crime & politics. Since 2019, my most-played podcast has been Crime Junkie, and before every flight takes off, I've already downloaded the latest episode of Dateline NBC. But my interest goes beyond true crime. I've always been curious about how investigations come together and what happens after the headlines fade. The same goes for politics. From local city councils to statewide elections, the decisions leaders make affect all of us. I enjoy breaking down complicated issues into stories people can understand because being informed is one of the most powerful tools a community can have.

I like to talk about sports. In 4th grade I made it a goal to read the sports section of the Star Tribune newspaper everyday. Don't believe me? Ask me anything about the RBI leaders for the MLB in 2009 or the promising high school athletes at the Minnesota tournaments. I grew up watching March Madness basketball with my grandpa each spring while competing for a tiny trophy my mom's family would award to the bracket winner. When I toured the University of Kentucky, the tour guide said that once we graduated we would love the sport of basketball. They were correct. I gained a love for UK basketball and lost my DUKE sweatshirt I wore all of high school. 

I like to talk about travel & lifestyle. From a young age I have been passionate about going outside my comfort zone. This past year it was paragliding through the Alps. Another would be hiking to see lava, or trying the top ranked BBQ right here in Lexington at Red State restaurant. What do all of these experiences have in common? I record them and add them to my collection of home videos. I reached my goal this year traveling to all 50 states. ​​