Jonathan Beale – Q&A

Name?
Jonathan Andrew Beale

Age?
Just hit my forties ! yikes

Where are you from?
Wales originally – but brought up in Kent.

How did you get started in broadcasting?
I joined a BBC trainee reporter scheme after working for an MP as a researcher.

When was that?
BBC trainee reporter scheme in 1989.

Why News broadcasting?
Because there’s hardly ever a dull day.

Where else would have viewers seen or heard you before?
I used to be a political correspondent for the BBC at Westminster – before that I was a reporter in Brussels, on On the Record and BBC London and a bit part presenter of BBC TV around Westminser and also have presented BBC Radio 4s Westminster Hour. I am currently the BBC’s State Department Correspondent in Washington DC and sometimes travel with Condeleezza Rice – the best way to travel with no waiting at airports!

What is your Best on-air moment?
Clare Short walking out of an interview with me because she didn’t like the question and accidentally burping on air!

What is your Worst on-air moment?
Accidently burping on air.

What would you like to do before your career ends?
Play rugby for Wales.

What do you like to do in your spare time?
Watch Wales lose too many rugby matches – ski – and enjoy time with my family – and – even go to Church on (most) Sundays.

What advice would you give to anyone that would like to get into the broadcasting world?
Don’t give up – persevere – everyone has set backs. Think for yourself – don’t let others do it for you.

A big thanks to Jonathan for taking part.

Posted by on Thursday 21 May 2009
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