Media Monday – Lauren Strait

Each Monday, we are posting a blog to help our readers get to know the media just a little bit better.
With a TWIST!
No, we aren’t posting story pitch tips or media lists, but instead great stories from the media themselves about their lives, their work and other little known facts! Think of it as your first “networking” opportunity of the week!
Today’s #MediaMonday comes to us from Lauren Strait, editor-in-chief, Arizona Parenting Magazine.
So, Lauren, time to share!
What do you want to tell the blogosphere about yourself today?
I’m a graduate of the Walter Cronkite School of Mass Communication and Journalism at Arizona State University. I started my professional career in public relations. After I became a mom, writing about my experiences and learning from other moms is where I found my passion.
Children seem to be the common theme in my professional career. From the Make-A-Wish Foundation to Children’s Action Alliance and then the Phoenix Zoo, I have always enjoyed projects that involved children.
When I became a mom of twin boys (Owen and Landen) in 2008, I found myself having a difficult time finding resources and stories where I could relate to other moms in my community. So I started writing and publishing a weekly email newsletter and website called Macaroni Kid (www.nscottsdale.macaronikid.com).  It was a great way to connect with other moms about my successes, struggles and everything in between. It was meant to be an outlet for myself and turned into a successful business and resource for other moms.
As editor of Arizona Parenting Magazine, I hope to bring my flare, sass and connectedness to a broader range of parents across the Valley.
Silly things you may want to know about me:
Number 1 song played on your iPod? Will.i.am and Britney’s Scream and Shout (been working on a workout playlist lately…now I just need to incorporate the actual work-out portion into the mix.
Where did you meet your husband? Believe it or not, I met my husband country-western dancing. I took a country-western dance class in college. Part of the requirement for the class was to go to a country-western dance hall and show off our skills for our final grade. I met him there and we’ve been dancing through life together ever since.
Favorite sport? I like football…..high school football! Go Falcons!
Favorite quote? “It’s not the mountain we conquer, but ourselves.”
One bucket list item? I just saw that new craze called skyboarding…Yeah, must try that. I also have several vacation spots I’d like to check off too. (Greece, Maui and Costa Rica are a few).
Superpower I wish I had? I used to say telepathy, but I’m beginning to think I may not enjoy reading people’s minds ALL THE TIME….I think I’d want healing powers like a Shaman.
You can contact me for story ideas, calendar items, or just for coffee. I look forward to what the future holds.
Lauren@azparenting.com
www.azparenting.com