365: From Beauty Queen to Environmental Crusader: Jordan Gass-Pooré’s Inspiring Journey

365: From Beauty Queen to Environmental Crusader: Jordan Gass-Pooré’s Inspiring Journey

58:57 Apr 3, 2025
About this episode
📺 Watch & Subscribe on YouTubeEver wondered how environmental journalism can uncover hidden hazards in your community?Jordan Gass-Pooré, host of "Hazard NJ" and an accomplished environmental journalist, shares her journey from small-town Texas to becoming a leading voice in investigative reporting on hazardous sites and environmental issues.In this episode, Jordan discusses her latest project, "Hazard NJ," which explores the origins and impacts of PFAS (forever chemicals) in New Jersey. She delves into the challenges of reporting on environmental issues, the importance of long-term follow-ups on hazardous site cleanups, and the fascinating characters she encounters in her work.Jordan also touches on her early days in journalism, her passion for horror movies, and how she balances freelance work with her dedication to environmental reporting. She offers insights into the changing landscape of journalism in the face of AI advancements and shares her thoughts on the future of hazardous site reporting.Ready to dive into the world of environmental journalism and discover the hidden stories beneath our feet? Listen now to gain a new perspective on the environmental challenges we face and the dedicated reporters working to bring them to light.Episode SponsorFullCast – https://fullcast.co/5 Key Takeaways1. Pursue your passions early: Jordan's early interest in environmental issues and journalism led to a successful career. Start exploring your interests and gaining experience in your chosen field as soon as possible.2. Embrace diverse experiences: Jordan's varied work history across different media outlets and projects has enriched her skills and perspective. Don't be afraid to try different roles and organizations in your industry.3. Find your niche: Jordan's focus on hazardous sites reporting demonstrates the value of specializing in a specific area. Identify a unique angle or topic within your field that you can become an expert in.4. Be open to changing perceptions: Jordan's experience with New Jersey changed her preconceived notions about the state. Stay open-minded when approaching new subjects or locations in your work.5. Use storytelling to make complex topics engaging: Jordan incorporates horror references and personal stories to make environmental reporting more accessible. Find creative ways to present difficult or technical information to your audience.Tweetable Quotes"I remember I approached him and I was like, 'Hey, first off, my college town, it's like, you know, there's an endangered species. It's an environmentally sensitive area. I said, no one's covering the environment. Can I cover the environment as a reporter for one of
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