Ashleigh Banfield: ballsy broadcaster. (fun fearless females 2002).(Brief Article)(Interview)

Best-known as "the girl with the glasses" because of her sexy black specs, Ashleigh Banfield, MSNBC's beyond-brave reporter, takes fearlessness to a whole new level. The smart, sassy 34-year-old hopped in a cab and headed straight to the World Trade Center immediately after the first plane hit on the morning of September 11. For two days straight, she reported live from Ground Zero--without eating or sleeping much--covering every inch of the story. Oh, and did we mention that she saved two lives while she was at it? As if that's not enough, she accepted a perilous post in Pakistan to cover America's war on terrorism.

Do you ever feel afraid when you're reporting from a dangerous location?

Never. I've had stones, fruit, and even a handful of lit firecrackers thrown at me since I've been here in Islamabad. That's made things a little uncomfortable, but I'm not afraid.

Tell us about your decision to dye your hair a darker color before going to Pakistan.

Being a blond can be a nuisance in this part of the world because it makes you stand out. In a war situation, I felt that a nuisance could become a ...