Michael Zimny
Rapid City
Summary
Dynamic freelance writer and former Associate Producer at South Dakota Public Broadcasting, skilled in editorial management and social media strategy. Proven ability to uncover unique stories and produce engaging content under tight deadlines. Experienced in content management systems and adept at thriving in high-pressure environments. Passionate about Western history and culture, nature and stories about media-neglected people.
Overview
36
36
years of professional experience
Work History
Freelance Writer
Freelance Writer
01.1990 - Current
- My freelance work has been published in magazines and blogs such as South Dakota Magazine, RANGE, Matador, Black Hills Travel Blog, Cowboys and Indians, Streetwise, Lip, Lumpen, my college newspapers and other publications.
- My beats include outdoors, nature, pop history, Western arts/culture, interview and interesting places.
Associate Producer
South Dakota Public Broadcasting
01.2014 - 01.2022
- Produced video, radio and online content.
- Editor and primary writer for Arts and Culture and Outdoors sections.
- Traveled state producing self-driven stories from conception to final production.
- Produced social media content, posted online using various content management systems.
- Produced newsletters delivered with Mailchimp and other apps.
Wildland Firefighter (seasonal)
Wind Cave National Park
04.2014 - 08.2014
- Seasonal position to get into the West and public service and an introduction to the wildland fire community.
Copywriter
Ace Hotel Group
New York
01.2010 - 01.2014
- Marketing copywriter for hip hotel chain.
- Developed copy for everything from website and blogs to development decks.
- Produced newsletters delivered with Mailchimp and other apps.
Infantryman
US Army
Fort Hood
03.2004 - 03.2007
- Performed well under pressure as part of an infantry unit, with one year of deployment in Iraq.
- Received Combat Infantryman Badge and Army Commendation Medal.
Education
Bachelor’s Degree - English Literature
University of Memphis
Memphis, TN01-2016
Skills
- Editorial management
- Social media strategy
- Content management systems
- Deadline management
- Non-obvious story finder
- Productive under pressure
- Experienced backpacker
- Nature photographer
- Fit
Accomplishments
South Dakota Kayak Challenge 2015
Timeline
Wildland Firefighter (seasonal)
Wind Cave National Park
04.2014 - 08.2014
Associate Producer
South Dakota Public Broadcasting
01.2014 - 01.2022
Copywriter
Ace Hotel Group
01.2010 - 01.2014
Infantryman
US Army
03.2004 - 03.2007
Freelance Writer
Freelance Writer
01.1990 - Current
Bachelor’s Degree - English Literature
University of Memphis