Meet the Media: Joey Bunch

In a new series titled, Meet the Media, Novitas will be featuring a member of the media each month. Our first guest is Joey Bunch, senior correspondent and deputy managing editor at Colorado Politics. Bunch’s 34-year career as a reporter includes the past 18 in Colorado at the Denver Post and the last four at Colorado Politics and a stint at CNN. Bunch is best known for his work on the Denver Post team that won the Pulitzer Prize in 2013 for Aurora theater shooting coverage. He has been nominated for the Pulitzer Prize five times and has been a finalist twice. In addition, Bunch won his first award as Employee of the Month at Lucky’s Supermarket in Montevallo, Alabama in 1984.

Provide a brief explanation of you job title along with a description of your duties.

I was the first hire at Colorado Politics, which has grown into the state’s largest online source of political information along with a weekly print magazine, and material support for the Denver Gazette and Colorado Springs Gazette, which are different operations. I gossip on the phone a lot. I check out what people tell me. I write two columns a week and do a lot of public speaking and outside media.

What stories, trends or issues are currently on your radar?

The sad and sorry state of politics that has poisoned the good will and unity of our nation.

What do you look for when you are researching writing a story?

A good yarn that helps people see the good in themselves and others. Can a story change the world? It is the only thing that ever has. Newspapers are too full of reports and not enough stories.

How has COVID-19 impacted your work?

I work at home, mostly on the phone, so I’m buying fewer lunches. I have to keep my cats off Zoom. So far, I haven’t gotten it or died, not that anybody can prove.

Please describe the most thrilling story you have written.

I was chased by a werewolf, but it turned out to be my neighbor’s dog.

What story are you most proud of?

The last one I wrote. I’m still getting the hang of this.

What tips do you have for PR professionals who need to pitch a story to you?

Find what makes it different and be willing to at least see both sides. Start early and lose gracefully. If you waste a reporter’s time, they’ll never forget it.

What do you enjoy most about being a reporter in Colorado?

Not being a reporter in Alabama.

When you are not reporting, what are some of your hobbies?

I need to get one. I’m open to suggestions. Maybe something with tigers.

Follow Joey on Twitter at @joeybunch and find his recent articles here.