Job: Retail reporter.
Years in journalism: 5.
I grew up in: Fort Wayne, Indiana.
I live in: Des Moines, Columbus Park neighborhood.
I graduated from: Purdue University.
Family: Back in Indiana are my folks and two sisters, with whom I share a birthday (in other words, I’m a triplet). And then there’s a feisty little cat named Frankie.
Email: ieschuman@registermedia.com
Why journalism? I started in journalism because I loved talking to people and learning about what makes them tick. That is, at its core, still why I love this job, along with so many other reasons: I’ve seen journalism’s power to improve communities and proliferate understanding; great reporting has truly deepened and expanded my world, and I strive to pass along the favor.
I like my job because: Being a journalist is a bit like being paid to be a good citizen. And that, like, feels good. And though you meet the occasional dull day, none are the same.
Some of the major stories I’ve covered recently: Since coming here, I discovered Iowans’ uncommon relationship with their beloved convenience stores when I wrote about Kum & Go. At my last stop, I examined the flow of millions of dollars in opioid recovery funding in an Indiana county, hampered, some decision-makers told me, by disorganization and conflicts of interest.
Some stories I’m working on next: I’m excited to take Iowans inside the trends shaping retail, from the toils of thrifting side-hustlers to the rise of flavored nicotine pouches in the backbar.
When I’m not working, I like to: Hang out with friends, hopefully doing something I can beat them in (Settlers of Catan and soccer are personal favorites). I love a good jaunt about town. And I like to cook and exercise, usually while listening to music or audiobooks.
My favorite Iowa haunt: I’ve been here four weeks and you expect me to have a haunt? How about a few places I have been to so far and liked: Mullet’s, Horizon Line Coffee, Palmer’s Deli, Big Grove Brewery, Chain & Spoke.
Fun fact about me: In sixth grade, I played Peter Pan in the school musical. (That was the most popular I ever got.)
This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Meet Des Moines Register retail business reporter Israel Schuman
Reporting by Israel Schuman, Des Moines Register / Des Moines Register
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Israel Schuman, Des Moines Register | USA TODAY Network
