WordsByWilkerson: Expert storytelling strategy for your organization
As a seasoned journalist and longtime editor in newspapers and healthcare, I translate complex information into compelling narratives. Specializing in storytelling, brand journalism and non-profit communications, I offer a rich blend of strategic insights and deep track record of excellence to elevate your message and connect with your audience.
About me
I learned the reporting and writing trade via shoe-leather reporting and a manual typewriter, and rode those skills into the digital and eventually served as a line editor at The Charlotte Observer for 17 years. Among other things I directed editorial coverage from hyperlocal community covered to healthcare news, faith-to-food lifestyle editing and running Charlotteobserver.com as morning news editor.
From 2017 until May 2026 I was editor of Healthy Headlines at Novant Health, a $12-billion, 19-hospital healthcare system based in North Carolina, where I was the trusted partner of physicians, service line leaders, freelance writers and patients eager to share their stories. During my time at Novant Health, I transformed a fledgling blog into a health and lifestyle editorial powerhouse generating millions of annual page views. I retired in June and am excited about the prospect of project work.
What I do
At WordsByWilkerson, I offer a comprehensive suite of content writing and consulting services designed to meet your unique needs. From crafting engaging articles to refining your brand's voice, discover how my expertise can support your goals.
- News-style consumer education
- Patient-centered healthcare writing and editing
- Non-profit brand journalism
- Profiles and advance obituaries
- Op-eds
- Ghostwriting
- Blog posts
- Newsletter content strategy
- If you had a large project requiring multiple professional writers, I could potentially assemble a team of pros to take it on with me as the lead editor.
- Need something else? Maybe we can figure something out, even if I'm not the right guy for the job.
My writing: Portfolio
For the last 26 years, I've been an editor, so I spent nearly all my time working with professional journalists and writers.
That means I don't have a lot of bylined pieces to share. But I made sure to keep my hand in the game.
Trapped on hurricane-ravaged mountain with a breech baby due at any moment
COVID nurse, 22, is in a world seasoned colleagues never imagined
Fact checking those 'health' claims around spiked seltzers and hard seltzers
Specialty pharmacist brings a ‘family’ touch, reassurance to her patient care
Invisible hand of the editor: My Portfolio
When it comes to visibility, nearly all editors keep a low public profile. But they play a vital role in all aspects of every piece they manage. The writers here are the stars, but I might have helped them shine a bit brighter.:-) Which any editor better be doing every day.
Complex, inspiring story from multiple perspectives: A pediatrician’s catch. A little girl’s life.
Cancer survival advice in a narrative form: 14 lessons on managing cancer from a woman who’s been there
Several online news stories made this topic much more complex than it need to be. We got it right for consumers: New cholesterol guidelines: What you need to know for your next appointment
Consulting, coaching & mentorship
Need a sounding board for a project? Let's talk. On every story or project I assign myself a four-word job description: Make the important interesting. It's the best way to engage your audience.
Have writer on staff who could use a partner or coach? I can help.
Translating complex information
A lifetime of journalism, writing and editing allows me to take on intricate subjects and make topics relevant for your audience. From COVID to emerging cancer treatments, I've edited hundreds of stories, and those skills can be applied to any field where you need to reach the right people.
Let's create something impactful together
No, I don't perform open-heart surgery (LOL). But in editing this profile of a heart surgeon, I joined our writer in the OR to get a first-hand look at how surgical teams work together.
Manistee, Michigan, United States
Phone
704-675-6165