Despite receiving the finest education his home state had to offer, Carmack learned to read and write. He attended (and eventually graduated from) college with a degree in English. He later earned a degree in journalism.

He spent 10 years in daily journalism but when he realized that the only way to make money in newspapers is to own one, he left the newsroom. Since then he’s worked in a variety of writing and editing positions, including stints at a dot-com, a curriculum producer, a software startup and two state agencies. He’s even written copy for a guy who sold tombstones online.

He's married, lives in Austin, and writes a humor column for the Lone Star Iconoclast.

Frequently asked questions

What are your rates?
The quick answer is, it depends. I can charge by the word, by the job, or by the hour. I work with the client to determine how they can get the most bang for their buck.

Do you do editing?
Yes, I do. Here again, my rates are negotiable and competitive.

What do you consider your strong points?
I write copy that people will actually read. Anyone (almost) can string together a grammatically correct sentence; the question is, who wants to read it? I can take the driest and most arcane subject matter and render it accurately, succinctly and engagingly. I also pride myself in writing about people in a way that is both insightful and revealing.
I’m quick witted and funny. If I had a dollar for every time I'd made someone spew beer through their nose, I wouldn't be writing this; I could afford to hire Stephen King to do it for me.

I’m curious. I love to learn, and I love to share what I’ve learned.

I have a passion for and an encyclopedic knowledge of rock music. Modern Guitars Magazine asked me to be a correspondent after I brought to their attention an error about Jimi Hendrix on their website. I’m also a huge roots reggae fan.

Beatles or Stones?
Beatles – no question.

I’m looking for someone who’s not all work and no play; do you have any other interests?
Indeed I do. As hinted at above, I love music. Rock is my first love, followed closely by roots reggae. I also like to read almost anything: literature, cop novels, non-fiction, history, cereal boxes – you name it, I’ll read it.

I’m addicted to espresso. I have a hot-rodded Rancilio Silvia espresso machine and a Rancilio Rocky grinder.

I also like camping and all sorts of outdoor activities. I’m also interested in physical fitness, health and wellness.

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