An award-winning journalist and feature writer, I have more than 20 years of professional writing experience. I also have a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Ball State University and a master’s of public administration and nonprofit leadership from Grand Valley State University.
I enjoyed a rewarding career as a beat reporter at three community newspapers. My experience and clips are diverse. I covered education, arts and entertainment, religion, health and human services, nonprofits, hard news, and general assignments. My specialty was longform journalism and personality profiles. I wrote a variety of features on community events and everyday people. You name it – I’ve probably written about it.
I used to work as a Total Control Wellness instructor and have a personal interest in women’s health and alternative and holistic health. I enjoy walking, hiking, yoga, generally being outdoors, and going to the beach; it’s why I tolerate the winters in West Michigan. The scenery is beautiful, but the summers are short and sweet.
What else can I tell you about the writer?
I am a savvy storyteller who has the finesse and flexibility to craft compelling copy on any topic. I’ve always enjoyed meeting people and telling interesting stories. I enjoy writing articles that inspire, enlighten, and get people to think. Writing can be a way to serve as a social change agent, grow a business, or simply share reliable information about a chronic health condition.
Like many former displaced journalists, I was left to mourn a career I enjoyed while trying to reinvent myself. I returned to school and earned a master’s degree in 2012. But I fell back into freelance writing out of necessity while I waited for my dream job to manifest. I’m still waiting.
When life gives you lemons
As the saying goes: “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.” That’s where the skills required of a good reporter – tenacity, perseverance, and empathy – have come in handy.
Some soul searching and several career assessments also pointed me back in the same direction. It’s nice to wake up without a sense of dread, but that’s not to say I won’t ever return to a full-time job. I continue to look for the right one. I guess it was wishful thinking that a long list of awards, transferable skills, and two degrees would make it easy to switch careers. Check those out on my Writing Services page or read Why Hire Me.
Life is a journey
Authentic and empathetic with a fun, witty sense of humor, I am a dedicated, diligent professional with a servant’s spirit and humanitarian’s heart. My compassion for people and passion for righting social wrongs kept me in the journalism profession. Those same values prompted me to study nonprofit and public service.
It may sound like a pipe dream, but I believe we can create a more just society based on true equality and democracy. Whether it’s through writing or other advocacy work, I want to be a positive force for social change and ultimately help make my corner of the world a better place.
It’s been said “life is a journey, not a destination.” I am on a continual quest of self-improvement. I try to embrace change, enjoy the present moment, and open my heart to the limitless possibilities of the Universe. It can be challenging to trust that it all unfolds in divine order, especially when we encounter roadblocks and setbacks. When we keep asking why?
I seek to be the change I want to see in the world by living an authentic life, honoring my spirit, and staying true to myself. I hope you will join me on the ride as a reader, cheerleader, and hopefully a satisfied client or collaborator.
To learn more about my skills and background, visit my Writing Services, Why Hire Me, or Get to Know Marla. Contact me at 231-286-4946 or marlarmillerwrites@gmail.com.
