About Robert Earle Howells

Three decades of toiling in the trenches of journalism. More than 1,000 articles in national magazines. Four books. Some awards, some acclaim, a lot of amazing experiences, thousands of wonderful connections in publishing, both print and online.

Not suggesting I’m enlightened (or old!); just underscoring the fact that I really know how to make a living as a freelance writer.

Stints as an editor—for five years at the start of my career, for eight years as editor of the Outside Buyer’s Guide (published by Outside magazine), as consultant on makeovers and launches. I was editor at large of National Geographic Adventure for many years. I understand the decision-making side of the desk very well.

Four National Magazine Awards for General Excellence—Outside and National Geographic Adventure—during the time I wrote and edited for them.

The last few years: doing an intense apprenticeship in Internet marketing, studying with some of the best in that business.

Write Where the Money Is (book) and Surefire Writing (you’re reading it)—because I’m so often asked for guidance by other writers, and saw nowhere in print or online to send them. How do I put this politely? Most sites and books that purport to guide freelance writers are staffed by people who themselves have not freelanced successfully.

I HAVE freelanced successfully. Still do. Wouldn’t trade my “job” for anything. I’m also passionate about helping other writers, new or veteran, part-time or full-time, achieve success in the challenging but rewarding world of freelancing.

Robert Earle Howells: Career at a Glance

  • 2009 Travel Journalist of the Year Lowell Thomas Silver Award
  • Two-time Lowell Thomas Gold Award Winner for Travel Writing
  • Freelance writer since 1982
  • More than 1,000 articles in national magazines
  • Author of Write Where the Money Is
  • Editor at Large, National Geographic Adventure
  • Editor, Outside Magazine Buyer’s Guide
  • Correspondent, Outside Magazine
  • Editor/Publisher, Sunglasses Buyers Guide
  • Grammar geek
  • Lover of the Outdoors
  • Adventure traveler
  • Cyclist
  • Poet
  • Husband
  • Uncle
  • Son
  • Blessed with hundreds of incredible friends
  • My homepage.