THE BLOG
Notes from the late hours
Essays on writing and publishing, why poetry matters, the questions worth staying up for, and what happens after dark.
The Soul Craves Adventure: My Las Vegas to Zion National Park Road Trip
One day in Vegas, a midnight bungee jump off Arizona's Navajo Bridge, and Angels Landing in Zion: the road trip that taught me why writers need adventure.
Should Artists Be Intimidated by AI? A Poet Tests ChatGPT
I tested what generative AI could actually do, and came away unimpressed in a way I didn't expect. Here's why I'm not worried, and the one way I do use it.
Writing Through New Fatherhood: My 2025 Recap as an Author
The year that forced me to stop being productive for a while, and what it gave back.
A Writer is the Sum of His Experiences: Tips for New Writers
Why rereading my old books showed me how much I’ve grown, plus honest advice for new writers struggling to find their voice. Free guide inside.
Poetry Will Change Your Life Forever: 5 Benefits of Writing Poetry
How writing verse taught me to name feelings I couldn't otherwise say out loud.
Reflecting and Improving as an Indie Author: Lessons From My First Book
I edited my first poetry book and designed its cover myself, and it showed. Here's what went wrong, how I fixed it, and what indie authors can learn.
What Does It Mean to Be a Philosopher by Night?
The name of this whole place, explained: why the late hours are when thinking actually happens.
Sound of Freedom (2023) Review: Duty, Courage, and Real Heroes
A film that makes you uncomfortable on purpose. I think that discomfort is the entire point, and I'd rather sit in it than look away.
Bittersweet Review: 5 Stars From Literary Titan + Interview
Literary Titan gave my poetry collection, Bittersweet, five stars. Read the review highlights and my interview about the Marine years that shaped the book.
Is Horror Good for You? 5 Benefits of Reading Horror
Why we seek out stories that frighten us, and what fear does for a reader that comfort can't.
Why We Must Read or Write Poetry: 7 Reasons Poetry Matters
Seven reasons, and the one that matters most: poetry proves you aren't the first to feel this.
How Does the Book of Job Explain the Problem of Evil?
Why does God allow suffering? Here is what I believe the book of Job teaches about evil, tested faith, and why not all suffering is punishment.
What Does It Mean That Humans Are Created in the Image of God?
What does it mean to be made in God’s image? What I learned while studying Genesis: purpose, equality, gender, the fall and rest, plus a reader debate.
Route 66 in 10 Days: My West-to-East Road Trip Itinerary
My 10-day Route 66 itinerary from Santa Monica to Chicago: the Grand Canyon, Cadillac Ranch, classic diners and roadside stops, day by day.
Live a Life Worth Writing About
The best things I’ve done are the things I had to gather courage for first. That’s the whole philosophy behind this site, in one post.