Today we’d like to introduce you to Sarah Lamagna
Hi Sarah, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I’m a full-time freelance writer and have had a non-traditional journey into the writing world. I spent over a decade working for various non-profits and government agencies as an ecologist until it no longer suited my interests. I used my environmental background to break into the writing industry with a niche that gave me a unique voice when creating stories in the outdoor space. Since switching careers, my bylines include Matador Network, 5280 magazine, The Denver Post, and even appeared as an expert on NPR’s The Takeaway for my work on wildfires in Colorado. I now focus and specialize in eco-tourism, slow/sustainable travel, and parenting outdoors.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Surprisingly, it’s been a fairly smooth road. I am lucky enough to have been mentored by a seasoned freelance writer who happened to be a good friend of mine. She was able to introduce me key editors and fine tune my pitching skills. I’ve also had an extremely supportive husband who has a steady paycheck and health insurance so I can focus on writing the stories that I really want to.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I work in the outdoor industry focusing on writing stories about eco-tourism, sustainable travel, and other environmental stories. I am most proud of the work I’ve done covering wildfires in Colorado for 5280 magazine. It showcases both my environmental background and my writing chops. Plus, it landed me on NPR as an expert on wildfires which was both terrifying and exciting. I stand out by having a much different background than other writers. I have degrees in Forestry and Soil Science and also had over 10 years working as an ecologist. I take all that knowledge and put it into every article that I write.
What does success mean to you?
Success is always changing for me – it’s not a linear thing. Some days, success means I finished an article within the deadline and some days, it’s getting one of my books reviewed by major reviewing sites (and getting an excellent, 5-star rating). The point is that I get to decide what my successes are and aren’t.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sarahlamagna.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahlamagna
- Twitter: https://x.com/sarahlamagna
Image Credits
Lindsay Fairchild for the first 3 photos, Sarah Lamagna for the 4th photo (winter photo) and Meag Poirier for the last two (me in a green sweatshirt)