Journalism is no doubt an interesting and exciting career path, but to be successful you must be motivated and dedicated. It’s not easy to understand the rollercoaster of emotions that goes along with being a reporter.  One day you may be reporting on the death of a child, the next on the 100th birthday of someone’s grandfather.  You need to be able to tell both stories with the appropriate and sincere emotion.  Natalie explains, “When faced with the task of telling someone’s story, I’m always motivated. Getting to work, some days, especially after covering particularly horrible stories, is difficult. But once I’m there and someone needs me, I’m fully there. It’s likely the only time they’ll ever have the nerve to go on camera. If I don’t tell their truth, they likely won’t get another shot. I take the responsibility very seriously and am always present for someone who entrusts me with their time and emotions.”

Natalie also shared the importance of maintaining her professionalism in the face of personal adversity. When her beloved cat Nigel was howling from cancer that would soon consume him, Natalie managed to go on air and conduct an interview. Mindset is crucial to professionalism and to Natalie. She told herself, “Focus, Natalie. Flavio is comforting Nigel. Nothing you can do at this moment.” 

Part of a journalist’s job is to live through the very difficult moments experienced by the heroes and honestly and accurately share their stories. According to Natalie, when she meets people experiencing gut-wrenching tragedy, it reminds her to always keep things in perspective. “As bad as I may perceive my day is going, it’s usually not as bad as what my interviewee is going through. And THEY are the ones who need support and full attention, even if it’s only for 10 minutes.”