Expertise & Background
- Topics of Expertise: Rock climbing, mountaineering, thru-hiking, backpacking and hiking, trail running, travel
- Education: Bachelor of Arts in Intercultural Studies and Community Development, Covenant College
- Years of Writing: 6+
- Years of Gear Testing: 9
- Certifications: Wilderness First Aid, CPR, PADI Open Water Diver
- Club or Association Memberships: SCC
- Previous Publications: Wayfinder Magazine, GearJunkie
Why I Chose This Career
We all want our stories to be heard, and we rack up some darn good ones when romping around the world. So, I suppose that’s how I started. Whether it’s writing, painting, or filming, getting to tell my tales with either a lens or pen—nestled within the outdoor community—has been an incredible ride.
How I Began My Career
Weaving an increasingly complicated web of freelance video gigs, copyediting, and journalism in the outdoor industry, the past several years found me doing whatever I could to wrangle enough funds for my adventures. It was fun but not the most consistent existence. Eventually, the creative energy I got from writing about my exploits and the gear that got me through them won out. I’ve been clacking away at the keyboard ever since… and living a slightly more settled life.
Recent Articles
Best Hiking Boots of 2025
Last Updated: July 14, 2025
Hiking boots are critical to your comfort and performance on the trail, but this no longer means a stiff and burly model that will weigh you down. The trend is toward lighter materials that still offer decent support, and waterproof boots...
Best Men's Down Jackets of 2025
Last Updated: April 14, 2025
It's tough to beat a great down jacket, whether it’s for casual use or tearing around the backcountry. This cozy insulation type offers the best warmth-to-weight ratio on the market and packs down smaller than synthetic options for easy storage. From...
Best Men's Backpacking Backpacks of 2025
Last Updated: August 13, 2025
The days of hauling a massive external frame pack and hobbling out of the forest with sore shoulders are long gone. Today’s men’s backpacking packs favor streamlined silhouettes...
Best Rain Jackets of 2025
Last Updated: October 2, 2025
With a long history in the Pacific Northwest, the Switchback team knows a thing or two about rain. From months of daily drizzle to heavy downpours in the mountains, we're acutely aware of the benefits of a quality waterproof and breathable shell—not...