What advice would you give someone starting out in your industry?

Read, read, read. I’m always surprised when I encounter young journalists who don’t read what other journalists, opinion leaders and fiction writers are saying about the world.

If you could try a different job for a day, what would you choose?

I’d hang out with the brain researchers & the brain surgeons at the U of M. They’re rock stars. Maybe they’d let me get my “feet wet” with a brain surgery or two.

What is your mantra?

There’s no stress that a great workout can’t cure. Endorphins forever!

How do you get yourself out of a slump?

I plan a trip. Even the anticipation of seeing a new place is a fix for the blues.

What companies or leaders do you admire?

I admire Mary Pokluda of Bumblebee Personal Assistants, Krista Tippett, “On Being,” and Susan Boren, a long-time recruiter and consultant who is also on the MPR Board.

What has been the biggest shift you’ve noticed in your industry in the last decade?

Quantity over quality. As the margins in newsrooms have shrunk, news managers have turned to a “warm body” strategy.

Who has been most instrumental in your career?

My news mentor, Jack Campbell. When I was a newbie reporter, he would send me out the door with provocative questions that could bring a press conference to a standstill. I learned not to be afraid to ask a tough question.

What is your go-to celebration meal, drink or tradition?

I’m pretty fond of a well-made Margarita and I just discovered some yummy ones at Pajarito!