How One Reporter Turns Sports Stories into Something Special

Dustin Levy found his calling in journalism early on, driven by a love for writing. He didn't just fall into it; he chased it, learning and growing through school and early career experiences. What keeps him going? The impact of his stories. There's something special about writing a piece that resonates with readers or gets noticed. It's those moments that fuel his passion, especially during the tougher times. Building trust with sources isn't about a list of questions. It's about making the person on the other side of the microphone feel at ease. Levy knows the importance of a natural flow in an interview. You can't just dive into the hard-hitting questions right away. It's about listening, conversing, and sometimes, building a relationship before the interview even starts.Journalism can be a grind. The job itself comes with its own weight, and staying motivated isn't always easy. With constant changes in the industry, it's a challenge to keep a positive outlook. But Levy knows the key is to find what drives you—whether it's a well-received article or an interview that makes a difference. Technology and social media have changed the game, but Levy adapted early. He understands the importance of meeting the audience where they are. It's not about resisting change; it's about embracing it and using it to your advantage. For those looking to break into journalism, Levy's advice is simple: hang in there. Every job has its challenges, but finding what's rewarding to you can make all the difference. It could be a well-received article or a change made as a result of your reporting. Those are the benchmarks to chase.