Writer / Photographer / Strategist
Hi, I’m Kurt Lawton, award-winning freelance writer, photographer and website/PR/social media content strategist.
The value I bring to every project is steeped in four decades of first-hand experience as a freelance journalist/photographer, magazine editor, website content director, editorial strategist, PR counselor, marketing communications strategist, and a global traveler who is well versed in agriculture and other industries.
For more details on my work experience, see my LinkedIn profile and contact me.
Engage the reader/customer
My mission:
Deliver valuable and engaging content that helps an audience think deeper – to implement ideas and practices which improve and sustain their business, environment and life.
My brand:
Experienced, professional listener and communicator who is passionate about topics, journalistic integrity and high-quality work that engages readers to achieve objectives.
Backstory
Born and raised on a corn, soybean and livestock family farm in Iowa, I learned the value of hard work, entrepreneurship and leadership from my parents, 4-H and FFA.
My dedication to lifelong learning began with earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Journalism from Iowa State University in 1980, followed by a Master’s Certificate in Internet Marketing from University of San Francisco in 2009.
A huge source of pride, love and fun are my three successful young adult children—a TV reporter/producer, a communications manager at a startup and a traveling Registered Nurse.
My important life-work balance is achieved with my partner Shelli as we enjoy travel, nature hiking, craft beer hunting, lake cabin trips and wonderful times with family and friends.
Grassroots work
Agricultural Communicators Network (formerly AAEA)
Active member since 1981, serving on many committees and two four-year stints on Board of Directors. Elected to serve as Vice President in 2013 and President in 2014.
International Federation of Agricultural Journalists (IFAJ)
Member since 1981. Attended numerous global congress meetings. Served on IFAJ Executive Council from 2016 through 2019.
Board of Directors experience
2016-2019: IFAJ Executive Council
2013-2016: AAEA Board of Directors
2008-2013: AAEA Professional Improvement Foundation Board
1997-2000: AAEA Board of Directors
Awards
Have received numerous editorial, writing and photography awards over the years—from AAEA, MMPA and National AgriMarketing Association. Most prestigious achievements include AAEA Photograph of the Year in 2013, achieving AAEA Master Writer and became AAEA Fellow in 2018.
About Stellar Content LLC
Stellar Content was formed in 2001 when my passions finally merged with a pent-up entrepreneurial dream. I spent nine successful years working with a variety of print and digital content customers—delivering daily stories, email newsletters, magazine features, photography and product marketing/publicity in numerous industries. Stellar Content was idled in 2011 when I became Editor-in-Chief/Content Director of Corn+Soybean Digest. Following that gig, I restarted Stellar Content in December 2018.
Kurt Lawton
Freelance Journalist / Owner
Stellar Content LLC
Eden Prairie, MN
kurt.lawton@gmail.com
kurtlawton.com