KAITLYN WELLS

I’m passionate about helping people make sense of the world. At The New York Times Wirecutter, I cover where accessibility, productivity, remote work, and technology intersect. Whether it’s advising readers on how to capture a family’s legacy, revealing the racial bias of dictation software, or exposing how romantic partners exploit digital tools to spy, my mission is to equip them with trustworthy, actionable information to better their lives. My colleagues call me “genuinely brilliant and transparent.” And my work has been honored by the New York Times Publisher’s Award, the Houston Press Club, Dog Writers Association of America, and Cat Writers’ Association.

Fostering a love of reading is also important to me. I strive to ensure little readers are represented in the stories I tell. I hope to never let them down. My debut picture book, A Family Looks Like Love received the NABJ Outstanding Book Award and was named a Children’s Book Council Pick. Kirkus Reviews calls the lyrical, nighttime clamming adventure Under the Clam Moon “a dreamy ode to family and a soft, nocturnal, natural world.” And I’m the lead author of the forthcoming National Geographic Kids Encyclopedia of African American History and Culture (Dec. 29, 2026), which offers a sweeping look at Black history from ancient Africa through today. Educators describe me as “thoughtful and engaging” in the classroom. Industry experts say my writing “sparkles,” “is jubilant,” and “a delight” to read.

As a double lung transplant recipient, I inhale every moment with my wonderful husband, toddler, and two pets. Born in Texas, nurtured in Seattle, and now treasuring the gift of life in New York City, I advocate for media literacy and health policy initiatives. I have taught and lectured at the City University of New York and Fordham University. My students have turned against me yet, and say I am “approachable,” “patient,” and I “challenge [them] intellectually.” I hold a master’s degree in journalism from Columbia University, a bachelor’s degree from The University of Texas at Austin, and an associate’s degree from San Jacinto College. I’m also a graduate of the prestigious Poynter Leadership Academy for Diversity in Digital Media.

Ask me about my son, pets, or the value of informed consent organ donation to become fast friends.

Illustrations by Sawyer Cloud, Mariyah Rahman.