What did you do before you were a Miner?

I spent 12 years working in TV news before Media Minefield. I started as a sports photographer at WKBT in La Crosse, Wisconsin and ended as a news reporter at KOIN in Portland, Oregon. In between, there were stops in Rochester, Minnesota and Madison, Wisconsin. My jobs ranged from photographer to investigative reporter to anchor. I’ve received a few awards I’m very proud of from the likes of the Associated Press and Wisconsin Broadcast Association, but it was the daily relationships and trust total strangers put in me to tell their stories that I cherish most.

If you could be anywhere right now, where would it be?

Hiking with great friends in the Columbia River Gorge. While there are plenty of gorgeous places I’d still love to explore, the Gorge is on the top of the list of places I’ve experienced. It’s beautiful, peaceful, humbling and a great workout all at the same time. If I could throw in post-hike stop at a brewery, it would be the perfect day.

What do you miss about working in the news industry?

The best parts of working as a reporter were being outside, learning about something new every day and talking to new people. The tight deadlines and breaking news live shots were exhilarating. The long drives with veteran photographers led to some great conversations and, inevitably, great local history lessons. The best part about working at Media Minefield is we all share an affinity for the news business and I still get to learn about new topics every day through our wonderful and diverse group of clients.

What do you do for fun?

I love keeping active and being outside. Hiking, biking, running and exploring the beauty of the world around me raises my spirits and re-energizes me. I also love spending time with my wife and kids. If we’re all outside cooking up a new adventure, it’s the best of both worlds. Just about the only time I like to sit still is while watching a game. I’m a huge sports fan.