#MediaMonday – Rudri Bhatt Patel
Today’s #MediaMonday comes to us from Rudri Bhatt Patel, a lawyer turned freelance writer, essayist, and editor. Currently, she is on staff at Literary Mama and the co-founder and co-editor of the literary journal, The Sunlight Press. She has also been published in The Washington Post, Business Insider, JSTOR Daily, Parents, The Lily, Saveur, Civil Eats, Brain, Child, ESPN, Phoenix New Times and more.
She has a great overview of her published works here to take a deeper dive into what she writes and for whom.
So, Rudri, time to share!
First, tell us about growing up and getting your start as an attorney?
I was born and raised in Dallas and spent three decades in and out of various cities in Texas. I loved debate in high school and wanted to practice law. Before law school, I took a brief detour and obtained my Master’s in English with an emphasis in creative writing. I’ve always loved words and stories and am grateful I had the opportunity to work in the legal field, as well as in the creative arts.
How did you make your way into journalism?
My journey into journalism began gradually. When I moved here 11 years ago, I started a blog to cope with the loss of my father. After writing for myself and a small audience for a few years, I decided to pivot to a new career and began freelancing for parenting magazines. After securing several local bylines, I started pitching national outlets and expanded my beats. Pursuing journalism appeals to my legal background and my love of telling a story, especially if the narrative is driven by implications for the national and local culture.
What would PR people be smart to pitch you, if anything?
I write for various outlets and love stories about chefs/restaurant news, nonprofit organizations doing spectacular endeavors, and stories with a parenting/kid angle. I also love pitches with a compelling character at the heart of the narrative.
Favorite type of music or songs?
My music interests are eclectic. I love Tori Amos, Muse, Ariana Grande, Coldplay, and instrumental piano music. I am an avid concert goer and my favorite show in the last two years was Adele.
Favorite local haunts or restaurants?
I love LAMP Pizzeria for Neapolitan pies, Sweet Republic for off-the-beaten path ice cream, and Om Bistro for my Indian street food fix.
Favorite color?
I cannot pick one, but in order of favorites, blue, maroon, and black, are colors I love.
Favorite TV shows or movies?
I am not a huge tv/movie watcher, but have a few faves.
My favorite movie of the past is The Curious Case of Benjamin Button and currently, I enjoyed watching The Old Guard, a Netflix original starring Charlize Theron. Some other favorites include Remember the TItans and Philadelphia.
In terms of television shows, I liked watching How to Get Away with Murder, Sherlock, True Detective, and Scandal.
What is something readers would be surprised to learn about you?
I am a lifelong Dallas Cowboys fan and have met past players like Deion Sanders, Emmitt Smith and Daryl Johnston.
Best Contact Email: rudrip@gmail.com
