Chris Van Leuven on Muck Rack

Chris Van Leuven

Verified
(He/Him)
  • Freelance Writer and Contributor, Freelance
California
As seen in: MSN, The Guardian, Red Bull, Miami Herald, Outside Magazine, The Charlotte Observer, REI Co-op Journal, The Sacramento Bee, Kansas City Star, Men's Journal and
Covers:  Adventure and outdoor exploration Climbing culture and history in Yosemite and beyond E-biking tours and sustainable travel Hidden travel gems
Doesn't Cover: politics
📍 Yosemite E-Biking Founder 🚴‍♂️ | Adventure Writer ✍️ 🌄 Guided e-bike tours in the Sierra Foothills 🧗 Over 20 years of storytelling
Back to Chris Van Leuven’s profile

Interview

What was your first job as a journalist?

Writing Yosemite climbing news for Climbing Magazine

Have you ever used a typewriter?

Yes. I learned to write on a typewriter by candlelight.

How is social media changing news?

It makes the news immediate. It provides a bazaar setting for communication.

What does it mean to be a journalist?

To speak the truth, to ask questions, to shape stories into visual understandings of events.

How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?

by email. chris.vanleuven@gmail.com

What tools and software do you use to do your job?

Microsoft Word, Numbers, iCal, Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator

What's your favorite social network?

Facebook

Why did you become a journalist?

I enjoy moving people with my words.

What story are you most proud of writing or working on?

The Bomb Constructor (a bio piece on Eric Kohl)

What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?

Carry your laptop everywhere you go, take notes immediately as events happen and when people speak. Take note of your surroundings.

When's the best time to pitch you?

Tuesday through Thursday 10am-3pm.
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