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20 Questions with Kim Maxwell

20 Questions with Kim Maxwell

Get a sneak peek into the life of part-time sub-editor on First Thing and Business Maverick newsletters, and on DM website articles as she answers 20 questions for Maverick Insiders

Marketing expert Gillian Rightford suggesting (to Georgina Crouth in DM168) that local brands are misguided in their lack of interest in marketing outside the 18 to 35 “mystical sweet spot”.

The Glass Castle, Jeanette Walls, incredible true story. Recently: I am Pilgrim by Terry Hayes. A thick novel with a detailed plot, creating a long, thrilling read.

Schindler’s List was certainly emotionally hypnotising, watched in a stark Budapest cinema, while backpacking. Recently: I enjoyed Avatar: The Way of Water in IMAX, way more than I expected. Gorgeous marine life.

Mad Men was a hoot, all those whiskeys mid-morning in the office, followed by long, tobacco-fuelled lunches… Recently: Irish series Derry Girls was a delight.

Vladimir Putin, first in line for incoming attacks. And for protection, Paul “Muad’Dib” Atreides from Dune Part 2, for nifty close-up combat skills. Springbok Bongi Mbonambi as backup, I wouldn’t mess with him.

Japan’s on my bucket list, or New York, US. I can do apartment living for a while, just need the budget to match.

Two Wüsthof chefs’ knives, when knives were still relatively cheap.

On weekdays I wake at 4.30am, before starting work on First Thing. I usually squeeze in a few minutes of pilates stretches. It’s dark, it’s quiet and provides a calm start to my day.

I’ve listened to, interviewed or read about loads of interesting people. Can’t think of anything offhand that made me change direction.

Clicking my fingers and making abundant food appear.

Eminem and Rihanna: Love The Way You Lie, on my son’s playlist.

Partial convert because it seems to have its uses, but sceptic because I worry about lack of regulation and misuse.

(Um, I’m that person letting others ahead while I decide…) Perhaps good bacon, sundried tomato and avo. Or chicken, lettuce and sriracha mayo. Or mature cheddar and roma tomatoes?

Cape Town mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis, he gets stuck in.

My first casual job: a school friend and I had to wear clown makeup, wigs and outfits, and entertain toddlers in a tub filled with balls, in a shopping mall. My first journalism job: as Copy Coordinator at YOU Magazine, a crazily offbeat place. I turned up unannounced, portfolio under my arm, and chatted to the receptionist. I was called back for an interview.

Its natural scenery is incredible, but what I love most is our people and their ability to bounce back despite the odds. And sometimes even crack a joke. Life is never boring if you have resilience, a positive attitude and willingness to make a small difference.

I detest karaoke. I worked in Singapore for a food and wine magazine for a couple of years. I somehow managed to manoeuvre my way out of awkward singalongs with Mr Ho, my boss.

Can’t remember anything noteworthy; my most recent dress-up was as Frieda Kahlo.

Watching Chasing the Sun, season one, with my family, and a glass of wine. Before we tackle the current series airing.

Kim Maxwell_075220

Kim Maxwell

part-time sub-editor on First Thing and Business Maverick newsletters, and on DM website articles