About Jeanne Vincent
I have always been a writer – since I was a kid
At 15, I won an essay contest for “What the Air Force Means to Me.” At 17, during my senior year of high school, I shared second place for news writing in the University of Tucson’s Journalism Day contest.
Those early experiences confirmed something I already knew: writing was what I wanted to do. My career began in newspaper journalism and radio news and later took me into magazine writing, healthcare communications, public relations, and organizational publications.
Although the assignments and subjects have varied, the heart of the work has remained the same: listening, asking questions, learning about people and their work, and finding clear and engaging ways to share what I discover.
Today, I bring that experience to my work as a freelance writer, with a particular interest in firefighter health, safety, service, and survival.
A Career in Journalism and Communications
I began my professional career as a newspaper reporter and photographer in Phoenix. I later moved into radio, writing newscasts and special reports at KOY Radio and KOOL Radio before becoming a street reporter at KTAR All-News Radio. My assignments at KTAR included the Arizona Legislature, state agencies, court cases of public interest, investigative reporting, and a weekly public affairs program.
As a freelance writer, I wrote magazine features and materials for healthcare organizations, public relations agencies, and a professional association. I also taught newswriting, radio news, and advertising part-time at Phoenix College and advised the student newspaper.
Listening Comes First
My years in journalism taught me that the best interviews begin with preparation, curiosity, and careful listening. Good questions matter, but so does hearing what a person is really saying and recognizing the details that deserve a closer look.
Before an interview, I learn what I can about the subject and the people involved. During the conversation, I listen for the knowledge, experience, and perspective that make the subject worth sharing. I ask follow-up questions, clarify what I do not understand, and pay attention to the details that help bring the writing to life.
My goal is to produce writing that is accurate, clear, engaging, and true to the people and subject involved.
Selected Work and Recognition
My nonfiction has appeared in publications including Phoenix Magazine, American Girl, Scouting Magazine, The Pet Dealer, The Arizona Horseman, and Outdoor Arizona.
Other projects have included an 80-page commemorative history for John C. Lincoln Hospital, promotional materials for national trauma care symposiums, newsletters and publications for healthcare organizations, and writing and editing a bimonthly magazine for a professional association.
My journalism has received recognition from the National Federation of Press Women, Arizona Press Women, the Arizona Press Club, and Valley of the Sun Newspapers. I was also a nominee for the Virg Hill Award, the Arizona Press Club’s top reporting honor.
Professional Memberships
Sisters in Crime
The Professional Writers’ Alliance
Let’s Talk
I’d love to hear about your experiences and ideas.