During my junior year of high school, I got the same question everyone got at that age: “what do you want to be when you grow up?”

I had no idea.

My dad was a newspaper reporter in his heyday and I liked sports, so I said “journalism!” in a mildly enthusiastic tone. Never did I think that indifferent answer would lead me to my life’s passion: telling stories that emanate from an insatiable curiosity to learn more.

After graduating from Syracuse University in Upstate New York with a bachelor’s degree in journalism, I worked for television stations in Virginia, Arkansas, Colorado, and most recently, Florida.

The journey has introduced me to some of the most resilient and remarkable people I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting. From those in Vilonia and Mayflower, Arkansas, who lost their homes when an EF-4 tornado ripped through in 2014, killing 16 people; to the family of Mike Cimbura, a Colorado cyclist who was diagnosed with ALS. Before his eventual death, they built him a custom bike so he could ride in one last race with his friends.

I’ve won a few awards for my reporting, but nothing compares to connections made with everyday people who are kind enough to welcome a reporter from New Jersey into their lives, if only for a few moments.

When I’m not telling stories, I enjoy running, hiking, snowboarding, and traveling to places off the grid. The world is an amazing place and I hope to explore as much of it as I can.

I would love to hear from you. If you have a story idea or just want to say hi please feel free to email me at daniel.grossman@scripps.com. I look forward to meeting you.