Steve Johnson is the author and partner writer of more than fifty books, spanning destination guides, children’s literature, and narrative nonfiction, shaping titles for ForbesBooks, National Geographic, Outside, and other leading publishing houses and media outlets across the country. Drawn to stories rooted in place, purpose, and lived experience, Steve brings connection to the genuine to translate what matters most into riveting narratives that engage and resonate with readers. National and global influencers, as well as everyday heroes, come here to create their legacy works and memoirs, many of which have landed on bestseller lists. In addition to keen storytelling chops, Steve is a seasoned book coach and developmental editor.
His lifelong passion for nature inspired outdoor recreation publishing projects in the Upper Midwest, Rockies, and west coast, as well as student-led conservation campaigns and other nature-centric work. He also delivers industry-driving, business-focused titles including start-up inspiration and strategy, legacy memoir, healthcare and well-being, science, sustainability, and much more.
If you were perched on a barstool next to him at some high alpine tavern, he’d say it like this: “I’m a self-propelled recreation junkie, big fan of what’s Out There, editor, and all-around scribe. A curious nomad, explorer, goofball prankster romantic. Part shoulder-to-the-wheel, part scholar. I rarely wear shoes. I live on wanderlust, adrenaline and joy, with an insatiable hunger to learn and laugh and live.”
Steve hails from Wisconsin’s far north, where he cultivated a love of the outdoors that resonates in an active, exuberant lifestyle. He spends copious time hiking in the Midwest and the West’s high mountains, camping at every opportunity, competitive cycling, and cultivates inspiration with spontaneous adventures all o’er the land.