Today we’d like to introduce you to Mariah Maynes.
Hi Mariah, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I actually kind of fell into being an outdoor-focused writer, and I’m very happy it happened that way. I studied music at the University of Utah and had a budding songwriting career, but I ultimately decided the grind associated with building a career in commercial music wasn’t for me. Following graduation, I began applying for jobs that interested me, because at the end of the day, we all need an income to live. I landed my first role as a content producer at a local news outlet.
A few months later, I realized that I could combine my love of the outdoors and my passion for storytelling and started taking on any outdoor-focused topic I could get my hands on. Eventually, that led me to reach out to editors and develop a portfolio freelancing for publications like National Park Trips and Mountain News.
So, long story short, I discovered a passion and put one foot in front of the other until I found the clues that led me to the path.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I’d say my journey has been a relatively smooth road, but it hasn’t come without its bumps. As many of your readers are aware, we’re living through a really tough job market and AI is swallowing up jobs left and right. Plus, large corporations are buying out smaller publications and laying off their staffs, eliminating roles and making it more difficult to break into the field. I’ve experienced it firsthand and have comisserated with several of my colleagues about their similar experiences, even across fields. I really hope things change for the better, but for now, I aim to remain grateful for what I have.
I think the most valuable thing I’ve learned from all of this is not to get attached to my idea of what the future could look like, because six months ago I had a salaried position at a local publication and now I’m forging my own way as a full-time freelance writer. The experience has taught me to keep my options open, weigh my options carefully and say ‘yes’ to every opportunity I possibly can.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m an outdoor and lifestyle focused writer! I do some photography and social media work here and there, too, but mostly it’s written.
What makes you happy?
Aside from being outside, which feels like the obvious part of who I am, I’m really happy when I’m spending time with my dog and the people I love. I’ve also come to appreciate the quieter comforts — cozy clothing, a good book, and a cup of coffee or a glass of wine at the end of the day. The last few years have taught me that joy shouldn’t be loud or complicated; those moments tend to be fleeting. So now I make a point to protect the small rituals that bring me happiness, no matter what else is happening in my life.
I also really love traveling and do it as often as I can! I think there’s something magical about being in a brand new place and seeing all the possibilities laid out in front of me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mariahmaynes.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/mariahrmaynes
