#MediaMonday – Isabela Lisco
Happy #MediaMonday! This feature comes to us from Isabela Lisco, the education solutions reporter for KOLD in Tucson.
HMA recently featured the Arizona Local News Foundation’s program and its multiyear funding to expand education solutions journalism in Arizona on this episode of the Copper State of Mind podcast.
Isabela, time to share!
Where did you grow up?
I’m from a rural part of LA County – yes, you heard that right – there are rural, mountainous parts of Los Angeles.
How did you get your start in working in media/broadcasting? Tell us your story and experience.
I enrolled in the excellent Northwestern University Medill School of Journalism on a whim. I had no idea what I wanted to do, but I liked people, I liked stories and I didn’t want to sit behind a desk for the whole workday.
I did a journalism internship in Wisconsin, published some longer-form pieces with NPR and WTTW Chicago, and fell in love with the adrenaline, creativity and human connection in this line of work.
Tell us about your role at KOLD. What types of stories are you interested in or would like to be pitched?
I have a new role at KOLD. I’m an education solutions reporter – one of 16 placed at various media sites throughout Arizona. Our work is funded and supported by the Arizona Media Association and Report for America to bring more attention to the topics Arizonans agree on. In this case – a high-quality education system.
Every story I do must be solutions-based. So, if all I can find is the problem – I won’t do the story. It’s a newer type of reporting that, I believe, can lead to strong community partnerships and useful, actionable stories.
Any memorable or favorite coverage moments, past or recent?
I went to a pre-K, and the children were fascinated by my camera. I was sitting on the floor filming at their eye level (a neat directing trick I use occasionally) and the students started crawling onto my lap and messing with my zoom, iris, ND filters, focus, etc.
They pushed so many buttons. It took me a solid 15 minutes back at the station to get my camera back to my preferred settings.
Best advice for PR people pitching you?
A juicy piece of data to show broad impact + at least two local Arizonans impacted + vivid visual opportunities = an undeniably good story.
What are some of your hobbies?
I’ve practiced martial arts for over 15 years – Taekwondo, Judo, Muay Thai, and most recently in Tucson – Jiu Jitsu. I also love dancing – swing, salsa, and bachata. (It’s more similar to martial arts than you’d think!)
Do you have any favorite local spots?
I’m a foodie, and Tucson is the perfect city for it. My newest culinary obsessions are Go Dim Sum and Noodies.
What is the best way to reach you?
My email is Isabela.Lisco@kold.com. I also use my cell, (520) 349-6002 to text and call. Please reach out anytime with story ideas.
