Twitter, Facebook or Instagram?
I’m not on Facebook or Instagram. I’m on Twitter, but I barely use it.
Describe your perfect day
Sunrise at the window with coffee. Deep work on something I find meaningful and challenging. A big, long lunch with my nearest and dearest (the washing up magically does itself.) A walk with friends. Chats and dinner over an open fire. A long, cool walk home. Then something surprising. Because what’s better than something positive you didn’t expect?
Tea or coffee?
Coffee and Tea. But coffee first.
How do you unwind after a long day?
I try to minimise screen time: read, stretch, get some exercise.
iOS or Android?
I don’t have a major preference, but I use iOS.
What / who inspires you?
Loads of people inspire me. The traits I most admire are humility, passion, and grit.
Favourite film/book/podcast?
Golly, that’s a tough-un.
Fiction-wise either Will You Please Be Quiet Please or Pastoralia.
Non-fiction-wise probably Knowledge and its Limits.
Film-wise recently I enjoyed You Were Never Really Here.
Podcast-wise, nada since I don’t listen to them.
Morning or night?
Morning, but not too early.
What would your desert island disc be?
Hmm. Madvillainy, since it’s infinitely analysable and, well, I assume I’ll have a lot of time on my hands. Alternatively, Nick Drake’s Pink Moon to match the sombre and lonely mood.
Describe your dream meal
Starter: TGI Friday’s cheesy nachos sans jalapeños served with fresh guacamole and salsa.
Main: Mum’s lasagna. People say it, but her’s is actually the best.
Pudding: Sticky toffee pudding and custard. And pancakes (it’s my last meal, right?).
If you could work anywhere, where would it be?
I feel at home where I am. If I had to move, I’d sit on my Mum’s porch in Raglan, New Zealand.
Curry or Chinese or something else?
Thai (I’ll take a green curry, please).
What did you want to be when you were a child?
A chemical engineer. The other kids didn’t find that cool, strangely.
What's your favourite part of what you do for a job?
Mainly being able to nerd out with other people. Also, I’m constantly reminded of the creativity of others. Seeing an elegant solution to a difficult problem gets me super-excited.
And finally… Bounty – swerve, or accept?
Chocolate? Yes please! :)
