About Jim Wiltens

Jim with his wife, Ellen McNeil, and their son, Griffin

Jim has worked as a research scientist, marine biologist, commercial diver, industrial chemist, university coach of championship teams, and award winning columnist. He owns and directs Deer Crossing Camp.

Jim's writing includes six books and numerous articles. His column on how to motivate children appeared in parenting publications across the US and internationally. He is a three time recipient of the Northwestern University Medill School of Journalism award for the best column in a parenting publication. His books include: Individual Tactics in Water Polo, Edible and Poisonous Plants of Northern California, Goal Express!, No More Nagging, Nit-picking, and Nudging, Memory Smart, and Camels Skulls and Cobras. Jim served on advisory boards for the San Francisco Chronicle Outdoors in the Classroom program and the San Jose Mercury News Venture Section.

Jim works with Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) programs in California. In the school districts where Jim teaches, many of the students call him "the adventure guy." His adventures include high altitude climbing in the Andes, exploring underwater caves in the Yucatan, kayaking the headwaters of the Amazon, and paragliding over Africa.

Jim lives with his wife and son in Redwood City, California.