HI, I’M RACHEL JO WALKER
I’m a longtime writer—journalist, copywriter, fiction author, essayist.
I set many of my stories in nature, often in rugged, inhospitable places, mostly in the mountains. I live in Colorado and have more than two decades of journalism experience writing about western environmental issues, extreme athletes and adventure travel. I have seen firsthand how nature can test, nurture, reward, and break individuals. Regularly, I leave my desk and run up the mountain outside my house until my heart pounds and blood courses through my veins. Clean, thin air scrapes my lungs. Physical exhaustion is the goal.
In nature, I learn more about my own place in the world; about the power of time; and about the roles that luck, skill, and tenacity play in the thin line between survival and demise. This manifests in my writing and my life. In 2023 I broke my neck and sustained a life-changing spinal cord injury. I now see each day as a gift and am committed to living and writing with deliberation.
I am a stickler for good grammar.
However, my opinions are evolving on the oxford comma.
MY APPROACH
I love to talk about writing, collaborate on writing, and, yes, write. I have been writing since elementary school and gotten paid to write since graduating from college. I will always discuss projects in-depth to ensure I understand the scope and my clients’s desire. When I’m working as an editor or coach, communication is key. If anything, I err on the side of over communicating. I give extensive written and verbal feedback. I also approach writing jobs with a reporter’s curiosity. Be prepared to be peppered with questions so I can help identify and amplify the crux of your story without sacrificing your voice. Whether you need a nudge to get started or accountability through your process, I can help.
RATES
After an initial free consultation, I charge between $100-$150 per hour. I can also work on a project basis with a negotiated comprehensive fee.
WHY ME?
With more than two decades of journalism experience, an MFA in Fiction and my transparent approach, you’re hiring an experienced professional who will be dedicated and thorough.