Writer.
Creative Director.
Editor.
SOMETIMES WORDS ARE ALL WE HAVE
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SOMETIMES WORDS ARE ALL WE HAVE ✦
big ideas INTO Cohesive words
SOMETIMES WORDS ARE ALL WE HAVE—TO EXPRESS EMOTIONS, TO BUILD WORLDS, TO CONNECT.
I’m a writer, editor, and creative consultant who believes that good writing should sound like someone actually meant it. I specialize in digital storytelling with personality—features, newsletters, scripts, and brand content that sticks (in a good way). From the big idea to the tiniest period, I make sure every word earns its place.
Along the way, I’ve worn a few hats:
➼ Co-Creator & Editorial Manager, The Thread
➼ Creator, The Villain
➼ Lead Copywriter, The Thread newsletter
➼ Co-Producer, Democracy Deciphered & The Alley: DC’s 8th & H Case
➼ Former Contributor, Comic Book Resources.
In short: I make words work. For people, for brands, for stories that matter—and the ones that just need to sound better.
Check My Work
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The Thread
At New America, Joe is Editorial Manager for its digital magazine and monthly newsletter The Thread, where he edits and writes stories that connect the dots between policy, equity, and culture—centering people, context, and the bigger picture.
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![The Villain logo]()
The Villain
Joe launched The Villain as a space to unpack the movies, shows, and music shaping our culture—while mixing in sharp political takes and personal essays. It’s pop culture criticism with edge, heart, and something to say.
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Comic Book Resources
As a features writer at CBR, Joe covered all things screen—from Marvel and DC to reality TV chaos and prestige drama. His pieces explored fandom culture, TV discourse, and the way entertainment shapes how we see the world (and ourselves).
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![Democracy Deciphered podcast cover]()
Democracy Deciphered
Joe co-produces Democracy Deciphered, a podcast breaking down the systems behind today’s headlines—from the electoral college to party politics. It’s history, power, and news decoded for anyone who wants to think critically about democracy.
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![The Alley's podcast cover photo]()
The Alley: DC's 8th & H Case
Joe co-produces The Alley, an award-winning and Apple Noteworthy New America podcast investigating the 8th & H case. With deep reporting and editorial direction, the show explores a D.C. murder that raised major questions about justice, race, and truth.
SOMETIMES WORDS ARE ALL WE HAVE
✦
SOMETIMES WORDS ARE ALL WE HAVE ✦
“Collaborating with Joe Wilkes is always an exceptional experience. He combines a keen understanding of writing, strategic vision, and creative direction in a way that consistently elevates editorial projects and produces high quality outcomes.”
Maika Moulite, New America
“Joe is a versatile editor and writer with a sharp eye for all aspects of the publishing process, from ideating to drafting to executing final touches that make the prose shine!”
Kip O’Connell Dooley, ClimateWorks Foundation
What I Can Do For You
Edit
Editing isn’t just about fixing mistakes—it’s about making your voice shine.
Your message is unique, and it should sound like you, not like someone else. My job is to make sure your piece stays true to your voice while connecting with the right audience. Whether it’s tightening up an article, refining an op-ed, or making sure your speech feels authentic, I focus on the details that matter so your words do the heavy lifting.
write
Words are my toolkit—and I know how to use them.
Articles that are as informative as they are interesting. Op-eds that take a stand and make people think. Speeches and moderator scripts that don’t sound like they came from a textbook. Email campaigns that people actually want to read. Basically, if you need something written that’s smart, engaging, and maybe even a little fun, I’m your person.
creative direction
Creative direction is about turning ideas into something unforgettable
I help take your vision and give it the direction it needs to come to life—ensuring the final product is as unique as your message. From concept to execution, I bring fresh ideas to the table and see them through, making sure everything aligns with your goals and stands out in all the right ways.
SOMETIMES WORDS ARE ALL WE HAVE
✦
SOMETIMES WORDS ARE ALL WE HAVE ✦