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Brad Wieners
Editorial Guidance Counselor at Patagonia
Professional Background
Brad Wieners is a distinguished writer and editor with an illustrious career spanning several national magazines. Notably recognized for his impactful roles at Wired and Outside, Wieners has built a reputation for transforming compelling narratives and maintaining journalistic excellence. His tenure at Bloomberg Businessweek was particularly remarkable, where he was entrusted with overseeing the magazine's features and an annual special issue dedicated to design. His contributions to the magazine were recognized with three national magazine awards, celebrating his achievements in general excellence, web storytelling, and leading a special issue on the significance of the fifth anniversary of the Lehman Brothers collapse. This blend of editorial leadership and innovative storytelling showcases his multifaceted abilities.
Beyond his work in print journalism, Brad Wieners has an impressive portfolio that includes extensive travel and reporting in diverse locations, from Argentina to Arctic Norway, and Sri Lanka to the Solomon Islands. His reporting has lent insight into various cultural narratives and unique stories worldwide, embodying his commitment to exploring pressing global issues. His creativity is also reflected in other realms; Wieners has developed television pilots and crafted inspiring speeches for CEOs, all of which illustrates his versatility as a communicator.
In addition to his editorial achievements, he co-produced the pioneering photo book on the Burning Man festival, showcasing his passion for arts and culture. This mix of creative endeavors highlights Wieners’ ability not only to write but to conceptualize and execute projects that resonate with audiences.
Education and Achievements
Brad Wieners earned his Bachelor’s degree in English Language and Literature/Letters from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). His educational background laid the foundation for his compelling writing style and keen editorial insights. The literature studies offered him a rich understanding of narrative techniques and critical analysis, which he has applied throughout his career.
Wieners’ career trajectory includes significant positions that underscore his expertise in magazine journalism, including:
- Director of Copy at Patagonia, where he harnessed storytelling to align the brand's visionary approach with sustainable practices.
- Executive Editor at Rodale Inc., furthering his association with health and wellness publications.
- Deputy Editor at Bloomberg Businessweek, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the magazine's editorial strategy.
- Editor at Men's Journal at Wenner Media, showcasing his ability to cater content to a lifestyle audience.
- Features Editor at Nat Geo Adventure of the National Geographic Society, blending adventure with journalism.
- Senior Editor at Outside Magazine and Wired Magazine, where he shaped conversations around technology, culture, and outdoor adventure.
Notable Achievements
Brad Wieners is not only an accomplished writer and editor but also a thought leader in his field. His notable achievements include:
- Winning three national magazine awards for his editorial contributions at Bloomberg Businessweek.
- Assisting in the production of the first-ever photo book on the Burning Man festival, which captures the spirit of an iconic cultural event.
- Writing engaging and impactful speeches for CEOs, showcasing his ability to convey powerful messages and narratives across different mediums.
- Reporting from various corners of the globe, which allowed him to develop a nuanced understanding of diverse cultures and environments.
Currently, Wieners resides in Ventura, California, where he continues to engage with communities and contribute to the world of writing and editing. His diverse experiences, combined with his academic background from UCLA, equip him with a unique perspective that continually informs his work. With a strong foundation in storytelling and editorial leadership, Brad Wieners embodies the qualities of a modern journalist dedicated to making an impact through thoughtful and engaging narratives.
