Meet IndyStar Statehouse reporter Kayla Dwyer
It takes a staff of dedicated journalists to bring you the news from around Central Indiana. In this feature, the Indianapolis Star introduces readers to our newsroom staff — or, rather, we let them introduce themselves. Up this week is Statehouse reporter Kayla Dwyer.
What's your job title?
State government and politics reporter, or for short, Statehouse reporter.
When did you join IndyStar?
Just over three years ago, in August of 2021. (My first beat here was transportation.)
What's your favorite part of your job?
I could list so many things. The everyday variety, the inspiring and interesting people you meet, the public-service mission. Honestly, though, the part I enjoy most is translating the complex and even the mundane into the understandable. So many bad actors thrive on confusion!
Why journalism?
I can't picture myself doing anything else. It's the only job I can think of that doesn't require an annoying layer of spin, sanitization or PR-friendly jargon. Despite what some people might think, everyone I know in this newsroom is ONLY interested in truth.
What's your favorite Indy area restaurant or hidden gem?
I tried the Jazz Kitchen in SoBro for the first time recently and was blown away. Obviously the music was hypnotizing, but what I didn't expect (because I went primarily for the music) was that the Cajun-inspired menu would be so delectable. Absolutely bursting with flavor (and healthy portion sizes).
What do you do to unwind from a job that can be stressful?
I take walks. I commiserate with my husband, and then we allow ourselves to be absorbed by compelling television (right now, "Boardwalk Empire"). I cuddle our two cats.
What are you reading or streaming?
Jenny Odell's "How to Do Nothing." I've been feeling attention-fatigue intensely over the last year, and her book is full of compelling anecdotes and antidotes to our fractured-attention economy.
What song do you shamelessly jam out to in the car?
"Walking on Sunshine" by Katrina and The Waves.
What's the best piece of advice you ever received?
No one is thinking about you nearly as much as YOU are thinking about you.
Do you prefer dogs or cats?
I've evolved on this one. I grew up with a dog and snubbed my nose at cats, but then we got our first cat together, and I've seen the light. Dogs are wonderful, but I'm a cat-convert all the way.
How did you earn your first dollar?
As a pre-teen and as a precursor to babysitting alone, a friend and I offered our services as "mothers' helpers" ― basically assistants who could fill in gaps moms needed.
What's your favorite comfort food?
To be honest ... a big, red, juicy sirloin.
This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Meet Indianapolis Star Statehouse reporter Kayla Dwyer
