James Durston Helped Launch CNN Travel - Here's What Editors Really Look For Today episode artwork

EPISODE · May 22, 2026 · 29 MIN

James Durston Helped Launch CNN Travel - Here's What Editors Really Look For Today

from Travel Writing Podcast · host The Travel Writing Podcast

As an expat in Hong Kong, James Durston was part of the team that helped launch the brand that would eventually become CNN Travel. Rising from copy editor to senior producer, he would eventually own the home page, a role that meant he was responsible for ensuring the travel pieces he published consistently found an audience. James shares how his experiences as an editor shaped his approach as a writer. He breaks down the specific headline and pitching styles and techniques that get results, and shares the attributes he looks for in the freelance writers he commissions. James is also the creator of Travel Writing Skool; it's the perfect companion to our Craft of Travel Writing Certificate. Where Intrepid Times focuses mostly on the writing itself, James leans into the business side, helping you start sending pitches and getting published, fast. Inside your Skool student area, you will also find a lively community of travel writers at all stages. https://www.skool.com/travel-writing/about?ref=bfd96d10548945ccb57d649b4328a632 Intrepid Times will earn a small commission on those who sign up with our link. Thank you for supporting narrative travel writing with heart.

As an expat in Hong Kong, James Durston was part of the team that helped launch the brand that would eventually become CNN Travel. Rising from copy editor to senior producer, he would eventually own the home page, a role that meant he was responsible for ensuring the travel pieces he published consistently found an audience. James shares how his experiences as an editor shaped his approach as a writer. He breaks down the specific headline and pitching styles and techniques that get results, and shares the attributes he looks for in the freelance writers he commissions. James is also the creator of Travel Writing Skool; it's the perfect companion to our Craft of Travel Writing Certificate. Where Intrepid Times focuses mostly on the writing itself, James leans into the business side, helping you start sending pitches and getting published, fast. Inside your Skool student area, you will also find a lively community of travel writers at all stages. https://www.skool.com/travel-writing/about?ref=bfd96d10548945ccb57d649b4328a632 Intrepid Times will earn a small commission on those who sign up with our link. Thank you for supporting narrative travel writing with heart.

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James Durston Helped Launch CNN Travel - Here's What Editors Really Look For Today

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This episode is 29 minutes long.

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This episode was published on May 22, 2026.

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As an expat in Hong Kong, James Durston was part of the team that helped launch the brand that would eventually become CNN Travel. Rising from copy editor to senior producer, he would eventually own the home page, a role that meant he was...

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