NYT’s Morgenson talks about covering Wall Street

The New York Times has posted a Q&A with business news staffer Gretchen Morgenson on her career and how she does her job.

Here is an excerpt:

Q. Where do you get your ideas?

A. They come from a wide array of places. Most are from sources I have cultivated on Wall Street over the years who believe clearly in holding people and institutions accountable for their actions. I also receive tips over the transom from whistle-blowers and from readers who have experienced questionable practices firsthand. The mortgage crisis had such a personal impact on its victims, so covering that story meant writing a lot about the human toll.

I don’t often get discouraged, but when I do, the emails and letters I receive from readers — “attagirl” notes — keep me energized. The best are the ones from people who say I’ve helped them understand a little better how the financial world really works.

Read more here.