#MediaMonday – Madeline Bates
Happy #MediaMonday! The latest feature comes to us from Madeline Bates, a Phoenix and Tempe reporter at Independent Newsmedia.
Take it away, Madeline!
Where did you grow up?
I was born in the Chicago suburbs, but when I was seven, we moved to Missoula, Montana! I moved to Phoenix to go to school at the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication and I stuck around after I fell in love with a boy and the desert — not in that order.
How did you get your start in writing/media? Tell us your story and experience.
I knew I wanted to be a journalist from a young age. When my teacher gave us reading time, I always chose to write. In high school, I became the assistant editor of our school’s newspaper,which was just getting off the ground. I knew without a doubt that I wanted to go to college for journalism, so when I was accepted to Cronkite, I knew it was the right choice. In my final semester of college, I studied in Washington D.C., where I got to report on the Inauguration, State of the Union, and I got to speak with members of Congress every day. I started with Independent Newsmedia, or INI, shortly after I graduated and have been in this role since.
Tell us about your outlet and role. What types of pitches, stories are you looking for?
I am a digital and print reporter for Phoenix and Tempe! I love hearing about new businesses, new rising talent and local celebrations. For Phoenix, I would love to know more about neighborhood-specific events and affairs, especially in the Arcadia, Ahwatukee and South Mountain neighborhoods. I also love holiday events and things to do. If you have Christmas ideas pitch them now!
What are your favorite stories to cover?
My favorite stories are the ones that impact people. I love politics because of the intensity, but my favorite stories will always be when I get to share the stories of others. To this day, one of my favorites was being able to speak with one of the last living Navajo Code Talkers from World War II. His family was grateful that I was willing to share his story and listen to his words about keeping Navajo traditions alive.
Any advice for PR people who want to pitch?
Try your best to build a relationship first! My colleagues and I mainly work remotely and get dozens of emails every day. Being able to put a face to a name can go a long way when deciding what to cover.
What are some of your hobbies?
I love to hike and be with my dog, Kenobi. I also love trying new coffee spots, especially if they’re local.
Do you have any favorite local spots?
I love Hearth ’61 at Mountain Shadows resort for a fun night next to Camelback Mountain. I also love The Fix coffee in Tempe and 32 Shea in North Phoenix.
What is the best way to reach you?
Email me at mbates@iniusa.org
