Our team of Austinot bloggers is like a family. Though we’ve had team members move away from Austin for jobs and projects, we still want to recognize their writing contributions as a huge thank you for all of their efforts.
Below are all the former contributing bloggers, listed from least recent (starting in 2013) to most recent.
Laura Darby
Former Contributing Blogger
I approach every new city I live in with the same level of zest for exploration and assimilation into the new culture around me. And I’ve lived in a lot of cities! Though I’m a born-and-bred Manhattanite New Yorker, my work with chimpanzees has spirited me to Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, and I’ve spoken on my research in Japan, Mexico, and Scotland.
When I moved to Austin, I was immediately immersed in and in love with the quirky, nerdy goings on about town. And, as a Renaissance Faire aficionado, it helps to be close to THREE different Faires! My spontaneous move to Austin with my husband was one of the best kneejerk decisions I’ve yet made, and Austin continues to inspire spontaneity and fun.
When I’m not in Austin, blogging and whooping it up, I’m trekking through extremely rural parts of northern Democratic Republic of Congo, following chimps and studying epidemiology. You can follow my breadcrumbs at LauraDarby.com.
Meagan Vitek
Former Contributing Blogger
I’m a Texas girl with an immeasurable hunger for life. I was born and raised in Keller, Texas and made my way to Austin in 2009 to pursue my degree in Communication Studies at the University of Texas. Austin has held on to my heart tightly since the day I set foot here.
I have a love affair with food, and everything surrounding the dining experience. Little compares to the feeling I get when tasting new foods, exploring new restaurants and learning about unique cuisines. The ever-growing food culture in Austin makes my heart pitter-patter with excitement.
My dream is to one day travel the world, eating and drinking my way through the beauty this earth holds. Join me and my never ending adventures on my blog, NIBB.LE or via email!
Lizzy Newsome
Former Contributing Blogger
Falling in love with Austin has been one of many pleasant surprises in my life, and fully exploring my adopted hometown is one of my many passions. Growing up with an ever changing backdrop of cities and countries, it’s nice to finally be home. I love art and culture, fashion and film, and enjoy contributing to the Austinot’s ever expanding coverage.
In addition to my writing habits, I spend my days and most nights curating the toys and novelties for Toy Joy. Social media and design figure largely into my job duties, and I spend a lot of energy perfecting these skill sets. Sometimes I still find time for the important things in life, like talking to my cats and creating wearable art pieces. Occasionally my projects make it to my blog, briteshiny.com. Twitter followers and email buddies are welcome!
Robert Luke
Former Contributing Blogger
I’m lucky enough to say that I am a native Austinite. Seriously, I was actually born at Brackenridge. I learned how to write science fiction stories at Burnet Middle School and went to both Johnston and LBJ High Schools for the Liberal Arts and Science Academy. I studied film at the University of New Orleans and made my first feature film, The Man in the Garage.
In my spare time, I enjoy comic books, craft beer, art shows, and stand up comedy. Around town, you can usually find me in a craft brewery, Pinballz, or the Alamo Drafthouse. Austin has a great film and pop culture scene and I want to share all of it with you guys.
Wanna talk movies? Hit me up on Twitter, @OhNoRobertLuke.
Samantha Champion
Former Contributing Blogger
Luckily for me, Texas is the only home I’ve ever known. I was raised in Frisco, just north of Dallas, but migrated south to attend the best university in the state during the Vince Young and Kevin Durant era. I studied anthropology, fell in love (both with this city and my husband), and decided I had found my forever home.
I make a living as an archeologist at an Austin-based environmental consulting firm. When I’m not working, you can usually find me running around with my dogs, trying out a new yoga class, laughing with my hilarious nieces and nephew, or eating with family and friends. I prefer to do all of the above in the beautiful Austin sunshine.
My dreams are filled with world travels, but I know I will always come back home. I just couldn’t live without the laid-back people, miles of trails, or eggplant pizza at Homeslice. I’m grateful to be a part of this forward-thinking community and proud to contribute to a blog that celebrates all things Austin.
I love meeting new people, so find me on Instagram (@samwchampion) or Twitter, or shoot me an email.
Cris Mueller
Former Contributing Blogger
My heart is hooked to Austin, but I was sprouted in Albuquerque, NM. During the last two decades, I made myself at home in three countries, five states domestically, countless communities and realized I suffer from severe wanderlust. My independent travels have allowed me to find my own stories of passion, travel, food and good people doing great things.
After many great escapes, I dropped my anchors in Austin in 2008, where I rediscovered my joy of community and began to put storytelling to good use. The entrepreneurial spirit, memorable flavors, charming landscape and endless experiences have managed to captivate this girl and her gypsy soul. My metaphorical roots are tangled well below the surface to my Austin community, but the gypsy will live on.
I’m a big fan of sunshine, adventures, Scrabble, wine, baseball, entertaining, stage performances and laughing. Not so much a fan of cilantro…
Want to ask me a question? You can find me in the sunshine, near the water and most likely in the middle of a great story. Or you can connect with me on Twitter.
David Thomas
Former Contributing Blogger
I graduated high school and left my hometown of Kingsville, TX in 1995 for Dallas, where I enrolled in a Baptist Seminary. About a year and a half later, I quit and joined the Army. After crisscrossing the Pacific between South Korea and Ft. Hood for seven years, I put the army base in my rearview mirror in 2003.
Since then, I’ve been living and working in Austin and I love this town. Looking back, I probably could have avoided the circuitous detour my life took. But if I had, I probably wouldn’t appreciate this crazy city as much, and I definitely would not have found my wife.
I’m not exactly rowdy, but I dig a good time. I think the best stories are lived and I try to keep Hunter S. Thompson and Jack Kerouac in mind when I write. I have a lot of rednecks in my family, and they always ask when me when I’m moving “up here.” I’m not ever moving up there…it ain’t Austin.
Edwin Ochoa
Former Contributing Blogger
I was born and raised in Houston, TX and have lived in the state my entire life. After earning a B.S. in Economics from Southern Methodist University (the first in my family), I taught elementary school for two years in the Rio Grande Valley. I moved to Austin in 2011 with my wife and it is by far my favorite city in Texas.
Over the years I’ve picked up a couple of hobbies that Austin has enabled: beer brewing, running, eating and drinking great beer. On weekdays I’m an HR professional and on weekends, I love exploring the city with my wife.
I have the utmost respect and admiration for small and local businesses. When I see a mom and pop shop, I see someone’s dreams and hard work. I find it important that we continue to build an environment where local businesses thrive amidst all of the changes our city is going through. Have a recommendation for a place to check out? Let me know on the Twitters!
Matt Champion
Former Contributing Blogger
I’m a native Texan who moved to Austin on a whim in 2005 to work my way through school. After earning my B.A. in Communications, I simply loved it around here too much to leave. My passions include writing, basketball, the outdoors, traveling, and playing songs for my hound dogs, Winnie and Piper.
Supporting the local community is very important to me and I try to do it as often as I can. When I’m not on the trails with the pups, you’ll probably find me roaming around the city with my wife, which is one of my favorite things to do.
I’ve written for several publications and worked in a few different industries while here. I hope to eventually coach my own basketball team, write a good book or two, and have a few kids I can pride myself on.
J. Alan Nelson
Former Contributing Blogger
A writer, actor and lawyer, J. Alan Nelson broke the original story on the rivalry between Branch Davidian prophets George Roden and Vernon Howell (a.k.a. David Koresh) which culminated a few years later in the more famous shootout between the cult and the ATF in 1993. Alan then went to law school, made law review and became a successful lawyer in civil litigation, remaining an active member of the Texas State Bar. He is a widely published writer and a member of Poets and Writers.
Erin May
Former Contributing Blogger
Though I was born and raised in Texas, Austin is the city where I’ve truly come into my own. There is a never-ending train of food to eat (tacos, please!), trails to explore in every season and interesting, passionate people ready to converse at any moment.
At UT, I studied archaeology and history, which led to many dubious discussions about where my studies would lead me. Finally, I am confident enough to announce to the world that this is irrelevant—I chose these majors purely out of fascination with the world and the people living in it, past and present. My interests have followed me wherever I go and are now a primary motivator for my involvement in the Austinot, where I aim to interact with and learn more from the constantly growing and evolving Austin community.
In general, I enjoy reading, marveling at nature and seeking out new experiences. In my world, there are never too many things to think about, fears to conquer or feats to accomplish.
Natalie Parra-Novosad
Former Contributing Blogger
From the mountains of Jalisco to the snowdrifts of Milwaukee, I’m once again an Austinite and loving how the city is evolving. I’m first and foremost a writer, then a translator and, lastly, I harbor a little chef inside that only escapes on the weekends.
I’ve been writing as a hobby, a passion and out of necessity since I learned how to form my ABCs with a pencil.
When left to my own devices, I will either end up in a fancy restaurant eating beyond my means, eager to satisfy my addiction to new flavors, or in the kitchen with a bottle of wine, surrounding myself with the intoxicating scents that can only come from freshly ground spices. My husband and sous chef/beagle are especially appreciative of these efforts.
I’m convinced that life is for loving, sharing and experiencing, and there’s really no better way to do that than through food, music and travel.
Leah Nyfeler
Former Contributing Blogger
I’m a native Austinite who predates MoPac, partied at The Armadillo World Headquarters, and has never eaten a better burger than at Holiday House. I grew up with my nose in a book, and the resulting affair with words propelled me into careers in teaching, magazine editing, freelance writing, and blogging.
Austin’s a great city for all things fitness and outdoors. Though I came to exercise later in life as a way to cope with family life, stress, and weight management, I quickly became addicted. I began keeping an online training diary as a way to connect with other athletes, and doing so sparked my mission and passion – bringing the pleasures (and challenges) of living a healthy, active lifestyle to the greater public. The Austinot is a great resource for finding information about our city, and I hope my articles introduce you to something new, inspiring, and motivating about living the good life in Austin, TX.
When I’m not writing, you can find me working out with friends, running Austin’s trails, enjoying good food, and still reading anything I can get my hands on. Connect with me on Twitter and check out my blog, Enjoying the Journey: Adventures, Thoughts, and Observations on Leading the Fit Life.
Edgar Barguiarena
Former Lead Blogger
Despite being an accident, my parents tell me they got it right with their fourth kid, aka me. My family immigrated to the U.S. a few years before I was born, so I was the only one in my immediate family born here in the States. The American Dream was all my parents had in mind, a better life for their kids. With all four of us as college graduates, with good jobs, I think it’s safe to say they accomplished their goal.
I received a rather severe bite from the travel bug back in 2007 when I went on a four month backpacking trip through Europe and the Middle East. It defined who I am as a person and I have been fortunate enough to continue traveling ever since. Exploring and discovering new things is easy to do while traveling and while living in a vibrant and growing city like Austin.
I love the craft beer scene that is rapidly emerging here in Austin, as well as the ever-changing nightlife scene. These topics tend to be the focus of my writing for the Austinot. Have a beer or a bar that I have to try? Shoot me a note on Twitter.
Andrew Chase
Former Contributing Blogger
After 29 winters, the development of a restless personality and the sudden onset of a quarter-life crisis, I decided to pack up my things and move down here from Boston. It’s still early, but this next chapter is shaping up to be a good one.
My business hours are spent as a marketing professional and fitness trainer, but writing has always been my default method of productivity, and my strongest passion. Writing for The Austinot offers me the chance to utilize that, while also giving me another excuse to go out and explore the city. That’s what I call a win-win!
I’m a bit of a dabbler, with my one true hobby being to find new hobbies. With that said, my current pastimes include good beer, bad food, rock climbing, guitar and all things nerd. I look forward to discovering more of Austin, and I’ll let you know what I find!
Mathis Kennington
Former Contributing Blogger
I’m a South Texas native with Central Texas roots. I call far south Austin home and enjoy a blended community of families and future grandparents who may or may not regret all those tattoos. When I’m not working, I’m playing the role of an urban archeologist, discovering all that the Live Music Capital of the World tries to hide from the East and West Coast migrants.
Before returning to Texas, I lived in Southwest Virginia to finish more school than anyone should ever have to experience. I’ve been a counselor to incarcerated youth and adults, and I now work as a couple’s therapist in private practice. Writing about beer and music seemed like the next natural move. My work is the world of life and relationships and there’s no better place to live. You can find me on Twitter and my website.
Judy Rae Merhar
Former Contributing Blogger
A traveler without a destination, a scholar without a degree, Judy is perfectly content to follow her meandering path only in anticipation of what turning the next corner may reveal. Raised in Louisiana, she lived around the country before arriving in Austin 12 years ago. She’s back home in Central Texas after three years in southern Belgium, where she spent every free moment tracing Josephine Bonaparte’s footsteps.
When reality imposes, she finds herself shuffling one of her four daughters between soccer fields alongside her husband of 18 years. A women of letters, nothing makes her happier than reading some travel memoir while sipping from her dwindling supply of Westvleteren. She’s particularly grateful for the opportunity to contribute to The Austinot, as it provides the access and incentive to discover and experience Austin’s most valuable resource, its people.
You can also follow Judy on her personal blog.
Kristin Leigh
Former Contributing Blogger
I’m a fourth generation Austinite who recently moved back home after a six year stint living in Austin’s unofficial sister city, Portland, OR, where I wrote about food and delved head-first into the thriving Northwest sustainable food movement. My love for the big Texas sky, family and promise of endless chips and salsa brought me back to Austin where I manage a French bakery and write every chance I get.
I’ve written for publications like Portland Monthly and Eater Austin, and I’m always on the lookout for my next book and my next amazing meal. I love combining my two passions—literature and food—which usually results in spaghetti sauce dotting my library books.
Follow my adventures on Instagram and connect with me on Twitter.
Sommer Brugal
Former Contributing Blogger
My name is Sommer and I love telling stories. That’s why I became a writer. And frankly, that’s why I moved to Austin. There are so many interesting people living in this city and there are countless opportunities to tell their story.
If you were to ask my closest friends to describe me, each would have a similar response. “Sommer loves food, coffee and music.” A few of them would also throw in my love for giraffes and my obsession with Trader Joe’s Crunchy Almond Butter. Luckily, Austin has plenty of each—except giraffes. I’m working on getting a few of those around town.
9/10 times, you can find me at 7th Flag Coffee on South 1st, writing. That 10th time you won’t, and it’s probably because I’m exploring The Greenbelt, eating tacos or drinking an IPA.
Follow my life’s story on Instagram and Twitter.
Eliza Weeks
Former Contributing Blogger
My name is Eliza. Yes, like Doolittle or Thornberry–take your pick. Originally from Tucson, with a brief interlude at a hillside hamlet in Ohio for college, I was drawn to Austin’s heat and culture and have stayed because there’s still too much food to eat, music to hear and niches to explore.
My infatuation with telling people’s stories began over a box of Barbies with an only child’s whacky imagination, long before I could hold a pen in my now eternally ink blotched left hand. I have a traveler’s itch that no amount of Benadryl will ever calm.
I still don’t know what I want to be when I grow up. But if people watching were a career, I’d be the first to sign up. I’ll drop everything to bake and roller coasters scare me, but complicated recipes never do. Drooling over online restaurant menus is my guilty pleasure. I fancy myself an adventurer. I’ll never stop exploring, asking questions or making lists.
Jessica Pino
Former Lead Blogger
In college, I had a running list posted on my dorm room door of “Things (ethnicities) I’m Not,” which spawned my tagline: “ambiguously ethnic.” This might have been why I felt the need to study, travel and work abroad for several years. I’m now a recovering vagabond who calls Austin home.
I still travel as much as I can, but it’s hard to get away with so many fun things right in my backyard. I love showing off the city and trying to convince people to move.
I’m the most optimistic realist you’ll meet and I love music, yoga, smiling and taking photos. You can also find me volunteering with Explore Austin and the Young Women’s Alliance. When I’m not doing one of those things, you most likely will find me joy riding my Vespa around town.
If you want to chat about Austin, the Dalai Lama, photography, or life in general, feel free to connect with me through Twitter. Extra points if you can correctly guess my ethnicity.
Ashley Alkek
Former Contributing Blogger
Native Texan with a healthy appetite for good food and live music! I’d like to think that my deeply romantic relationship with Austin began when I moved here in 2008. Since then, there hasn’t been a day that has gone by without wanting to try something new that the city has to offer. Yet another reason why I’m thrilled to be writing for the Austinot!
When I’m not sharing my Austin adventures via the interwebs, you can find me wrangling friends up to check out a comedy show or hike along the Greenbelt.
After having lived in three different countries and two other states, I can honestly say that my heart is here to stay (as long as tacos exist). But if you have any travel suggestions, that’s a different story!
Feel free to connect with me on Twitter or Instagram.
Kelli McDonald
Former Contributing Blogger
I dye Easter eggs year round. I learned the craft of pysanky (Ukrainian Easter eggs) a few years ago here in Austin, and I’ve been etching and dyeing eggshells with my own contemporary designs ever since.
I live on a street where everyone is connected on a listserv that’s full of requests for anything from hula hoops to hangouts. My cat, Moyra, has an extra toe on each foot, so she looks like she’s wearing kitten mittens. I am always in dire need of a snowcone, and I can sense when a snowcone stand is near (follow the bees). I’m one of those people that slowly inches into the water at Barton Springs, and I think it enhances my sense of determination. I moved to Austin after graduating college just because I had a good feeling about it. Therefore, I have fantastic instincts.
Find me on Instagram and Twitter and feel free to check out my artwork.
Jaclyn Hubersberger
Former Contributing Blogger
I’m not the kind of person who buys a one-way ticket to a place I’ve never been, where I don’t know a single soul. But that is what I did, so maybe I am. More than three years later, I affectionately refer to Austin as home. Now I spend my days as a freelance writer and photographer, doing my part to keep Austin weird.
I enjoy writing about: local food & drink, sustainability & environment, community & culture, and art & design. Often I write to increase awareness of local nonprofit organizations and causes I believe are worth supporting. I was once told in reference to my photos, “You live in a freaking fairytale world!” The truth is, I don’t, but I aim to capture the seemingly ordinary from a whimsical, childlike point of view.
See more of my work on my website, jaclyncreates.com, and view my life in tiny squares on Instagram.
Susan Meyer
Former Contributing Blogger
I was born and raised in Texas (Houston, specifically), but moved to Austin after a decade spent in the far reaches of Arkansas and New York. I love Austin for its wealth of breakfast tacos and endless possibilities for outdoor adventures.
By day, I write and edit educational books for high school students. I also sell Shakespeare greeting cards with my husband (he’s the artist; I’m the editor/marketer). By night, I’m doing karaoke at The Highball, attending free outdoor theater events, volunteering (actually, I guess that’s mostly in the daytime, too) and trying to get out-of-town visitors to come see the bats with me.
I love (in no particular order): road trips, Irish step dancing, unapologetic cat people and growing my own food. So far my gardening has only been successful at producing vegetables I don’t like, so I’m realizing I’ll either have to get better at it or become less picky.
Caitlin Johnson
Former Contributing Blogger
East coast born and bred, but believe me, I moved to Texas as soon as I could! Since moving to Austin in 2016, I’ve been busy learning about the communities that make this city so beautiful and weird.
Since moving here, I’ve been writing and sharing the dreams and ideas behind some of the city’s most beloved brewers and distillers. What I love to write most, though, is a story of a struggle that has been overcome or a dream that was chased. Those stories make me realize just how lucky I am to be here pursuing my passion.
When I’m not writing or doing the hard research about this city’s booze, I’m usually stuffing my face with local eats and exploring new spots on the Greenbelt. Read all about my boozy adventures on my personal blog, Big World, Small Girl. Also, connect with me on Facebook or Instagram!
Dustin Vegas
Former Contributing Blogger
I have always loved exploring and reading stories. One of my first memories is flipping through the hundreds of National Geographics that my parents kept in their garage. From then on, I’ve been curious about the stories of the people and places around me. That’s probably why I keep writing about Austin.
As Austin grows and evolves, I want to share glimpses into the people and organizations growing with it. Though I tend to write a lot about non-profits and charities, I’ll write about anything the city has to offer. It doesn’t matter if I have to jump out of a plane (that literally happened), or if I have to break into an abandoned building (no comment), I’ll go there and do it.
My bio is simple: born and raised in Hawaii, graduated from the UT Austin. I love traveling, volunteering, Brazilian jiu jitsu and black coffee.
Yulia Dyukova
Former Contributing Blogger
Three things you should know about me: I love food, I love travel and I am Russian. You would have guessed the latter from my rolling r’s if I were telling you all this in person. English tends to give me away the moment I say a word.
I would always choose traveling over a new dress, new phone or a fancy party. The only thing I am not ready to give up is food. And that is because food is the most trustworthy way to explore cultures. I am the kind of person who starts to research a new country by googling “what to eat in…” instead of “what to visit in…,” who spends hours reading on the origins of pecan pie before trying it and who doesn’t consider waiting in a line of 50 people to get a cronut as a waste of time.
This passion is what brought me to Austin, and for the past year I have been eating my way around the city. You can read about my culinary adventures on my blog, thefoodiemiles.com. Connect with me on Twitter or Instagram.
Irvianne Torremoro
Former Contributing Blogger
Irvianne Torremoro is an Austinite by way of Las Vegas. Austin has been home for six years and she’s constantly exploring everything the city has to offer.
She’s worked in various outlets in food and beverage, and is now focused on writing, eating all the things, talking about Beyonce, and petting all the puppies. She runs Flavor & Bounty, a lifestyle blog about people in the service industry.
Jackson Prince
Former Contributing Blogger
I’m originally from Connecticut and moved to Austin as recently as October 2017. I will stay in this city so long as Barbarella lets me dance. I spend my weekends there, or at Alamo Drafthouse Mueller in full recline, drinking a Thirsty Goat. During the week, I work an ambiguous role at a film production company, somewhere between intern, assistant, and cleaner of the office.
I graduated college with a degree in Theatre, which made me a ton of money in a very short period of time. I’m still trying to figure out what to do with all of it. In the meantime, while I sort through all these zeros, I’ll be writing stories in coffee shops.
These are my favorite places in Austin: Moontower Saloon, Lala’s Little Nugget, Blazer Tag, Jester King Brewery.
Where else should I be going? Send me on adventures (for real, though). @Look_A_Swan
Vi Chetan
Former Contributing Blogger
I’m Vi, a UI/UX designer based in Austin. While I’m pretty sure that’s my first calling in life, I’m just as certain that food is THE second calling. I moved to Austin in 2015 and have soaked up the city so much that you’d never know I’m a transplant. It took me three weeks to establish myself as the queen of food at my new job. I love the food Austin has to offer, but that’s not the end of our relationship. Thankfully, this town is just as quirky and fun-loving as I am, so we get along well. My husband and I usually have a busy work week, but BOY when the weekend comes, we adventure hard! You can also find me head banging to whatever Spotify has to offer, while navigating through my indecisiveness at a coffee shop with a little help from our pup, Ms. Poe, and partner, Mr. P. You can keep up with our adventures on my Instagram!
Samantha Saenz
Former Contributing Blogger
I’m a Native Texan, copywriter, and world traveler. My last name is pronounced /sīnz/ which is where my long-running nickname “Dollar Saenz” comes from.
I’ve been in and around Austin since 2005—which I’m pretty sure makes me a local. Jack Kerouac’s “On The Road” is my life’s inspiration. However, when I’m not penning clever one-liners or traveling, you can find me swimming at Barton Springs, eating from food trucks, or walking around Austin photographing street art and searching for the best margarita in town. I just love revealing the everyday “weirdness” that makes this city so darn great
I chronicle my adventures over on my blog, Eat Well.Travel Often. Connect with me on Instagram.
Camellia Falcon
Former Contributing Blogger
I am a Gemini and as such feel comfortable describing myself as a “half-Austinite.” While I grew up in Houston, I was shipped off to Grandma’s house in Austin every holiday and vacation. When the 290 overpass first went up, I cried because I was scared to drive that high. After living in other cities and even working internationally, I finally made amends with my Austin heritage and moved back for the third time in 2011.
I love adventures and learning people’s stories, which turns out to be a good combination for an Austin blogger. I care deeply about Austin, so I can also be found dashing around town supporting the causes I believe in, fueled by coffee and snacks. But above all this, my biggest project is making sure my godkids and littles tip the band, and dance counter-clockwise.
I ponder life over at my blog Auntiecam.com, join me there or come chat with me on Instagram at @dear_auntiecam.
Krista Hager
Former Contributing Blogger
Fun Fact: I personally awarded over 1,000 days the title “BEST day EVER!” And out of my approximate 14,000 rotations spent on earth, 11,000 of these were breathed in the ATX. Perhaps my propensity to find numerous “bests” reflects a lack of discernment, or maybe it’s because I was born and raised in this culture hub of awesome.
Four years ago, I married my sanity and partner in life and crime. Three years ago, I became a mama bear (like I have actually growled). Two years ago I became a madwoman, momming two, too close together.
I’ve fought fires, raced obstacle courses, and connected with all the broken and beautiful parts through a decade of nonprofit service work.
When I am not playing with numbers or growling, stacking word concoctions is my craft of choice. Writing across genres as eclectic as my quirky personality—I love ALL the words. Follow my professional writing services at Mama on the Internet or personal anecdotes at Muscles and Wine.
Jonas White
Former Contributing Blogger
After spending most of my “adult” life in NYC and LA, Austin now feels like home. My favorite things about the city: the food, the outdoor activities, the tacos, the food, the going-out scene, the food trucks, the barbecue, and the food.
I work for a little tech company called Google, but in my free time I love live music, standup comedy, traveling, and thinking about making plans to one day learn how I can be more efficient with my time. I’ll always be a Boston sports fan, but all these championship parades are getting tiring, you know? I’m proud to say I’ve been banned from Craigslist due to my propensity for writing fake listings. Having a friend ask me, “Do you know why I have 87 voicemails looking for a free cotton candy machine?” gives me joy on the deepest level.
Adrienne Albregts
Former Associate Editor
I live by the philosophy that “A Titos a day keeps the doctor away.” My last meal would be candy. All of the candies in the world, washed down with pie. Probably peanut butter pie. Hell on earth would be the women’s restroom in Terminal D at the George W. Bush International airport. Heaven would be a pygmy goat farm on the east side of Austin.
I moved here on a whim; I’ll stay here on instinct. My favorite things about this weird city would be the happy hours, the friends I’ve made, Clarksville and the calf muscles I’ve enhanced. Combating the queso addiction has been a real issue, but I think I’ll get through it…Professionally, I overuse ellipses; personally, I’m really into braid tutorials. Apparently, I like fun facts over bios.
If you post puppy and/or goat pics or tweet corny and/or inappropriate jokes, let’s connect on Twitter and/or Instagram.
Joleen Jernigan
Former Contributing Blogger
I am a native Texan, world traveler and gallivanting writer. After traveling through many countries in the Americas, Asia, Europe and Africa, I moved back to Texas and built my nest here in Austin. Showing people the coolest and most unusual places in town brings out my natural enthusiasm and lust for life. I love sharing my joy for living here with everyone I meet.
Studying languages and cultures and exploring new places sets my soul on fire! My passion for food and drink led me to start a food tour company here, Taste ATX, with a good friend and fellow bon vivant. I spend as much time at our trails, parks and swimming holes as possible during the day. By night I can often be found laughing and chatting with friends new and old, most likely over a glass (or a bottle) of wine and delectable food.
You can connect with me on Instagram.
James Lipari
Former Contributing Blogger
Beer, music and food are my three top favorite things, so where better to live than Austin? I say nowhere is better!
I couldn’t wait to move here, and after a few years of planning, I finally did in 2018. After having traveled all over the country as a stand-up comic, and a 10-year career in the US Navy that took me all over the world, I’ve never felt more at home than here in Austin.
Before arriving in my chosen hometown, I got really nutty with the beer. I set out to try every beer out there, and suddenly every vacation turned into a beercation. Then I started studying beer, which led to homebrewing and geeking out with fun chemistry that gives you a buzz. Then I nerded out even more and became a Certified Cicerone®. If you don’t know what that is, it’s the beer equivalent of a wine sommelier, but I prefer Baby Beer Yoda.
As soon as I moved here I immersed myself in the thriving Austin craft beer culture that I migrated to. Since then, I have been making friends all over this great city one pint at a time, and even started my own brewery tour business, ATX Beer Bus.
When I’m not taking people to my favorite breweries, I sometimes enjoy non-beer hobbies like cooking with beer, hiking for beer, or going to one of our great concerts with a beer in my hand. I think you see where this is going. Write what you love, and that’s exactly what I’m doing.
Connect with me on Instagram at @beerlovesjames. Cheers!