I am a freelance writer and carpenter currently based out of Roanoke, Va. I grew up in rural southwest Virginia in the Appalachian Mountains as an avid outdoorsman, rock climber, backpacker, and eventually traveler. I have great interest in environmental issues, organic farming, clean energy initiatives, and conservation efforts. I will never shy away from any opportunity to travel, meet new people and study new cultures.
I learned Spanish over six months in 2018 studying conservation biology, setting up a hydroponic farming system, and monitoring fish populations in Costa Rica. In August 2019, I spent three weeks in Argentina through an internship with Guayakí studying yerba mate culture, fair trade practices, and biodynamic and organic farming methods. I have recently returned from a cultural immersion experience in Peru sponsored by Appalachian Gear Company. While in Peru, I spent time in rural communities observing their farming methods, visiting world heritage sites, and backpacking through the Andes.
I am a creative and dedicated writer with bylines in local, national, and international publications such as the Washington Post, Associated Press, San Francisco Chronicle and Chicago Tribune. My journalistic endeavors and mindset translate well into marketing, blog and social media posts. I enjoy nothing more than weaving a narrative with a purpose. I can work and write in less than ideal situations and approach stories from unconventional viewpoints, allowing me unique experiences as a reporter and writer.
Outside of travel and writing, I am working on my business plan for a small farm and composting operation with an emphasis on sustainability and traditional farming methods, alongside community engagement and enrichment.