Expertise & Background

• Topics of Expertise: Hiking, backpacking, camping, rock climbing, canyoneering, skiing, yoga, travel
• Education: Bachelor of Fine Art, RMCAD
• Years of Writing: 20
• Years of Gear Testing: 9
• Certifications: Wilderness First Aid, CPR, Clinical Herbalism & Nutrition, Full Stack Web Development
• Club or Association Memberships: American Alpine Club, Leadership Lake Tahoe
• Previous Publications: OutdoorGearLab, TechGearLab, Plant Healer Magazine

Why I Chose This Career

I have a deep passion for writing, education, art, and the outdoors. Working for Switchback Travel brings together the best parts of every job I've had or skill I've amassed in a dynamic way that keeps me on my toes.

How I Began My Career

I've been writing for all of my adult life, but my first professional endeavors were in the realm of herbalism and botany, writing curricula for classes and conferences. I also spent many years teaching people how to ferment almost anything (from sauerkraut and cheese to bread and wine) and how to make their own body care products. I love helping folks learn a new skill or find the right tool for the job, and I subsequently started testing and writing about outdoor gear in 2016. I knew I'd found my niche, and it's been a joy to continue to guide outdoor enthusiasts to the right products and to be challenged by friends and colleagues while playing outside.