From Pennsylvania beginnings to becoming a celebrated author, the story of John Cochran is one marked by diverse landscapes and rich experiences. Though born in Pennsylvania, John’s early childhood was a tapestry of relocations, moving four times across the United States before the age of eight due to his father’s career transitions. However, when asked about his hometown, John proudly states Kansas City, Missouri. This is where his family found their roots when he was in the fifth grade, settling into a house just a few blocks from the Kansas state line. This location provided young John with the idyllic freedom of suburban childhood, where he could explore his neighborhood on his bicycle, visit friends, indulge in treats at Topsy’s, or spend his birthday money at the captivating Brookside Toy and Science store, a local gem that thankfully still thrives today. His formative years included attending Catholic schools, serving as an altar boy – an experience he enjoyed, particularly for the bell-ringing and candle-lighting duties – and lending his voice to the Pontifical Choir of Kansas City, performing in churches throughout the city.
The Spark of Inspiration: Finding a Path to Writing
The pivotal moment when John Cochran decided to pursue writing is etched clearly in his memory: Sherry Unruh’s sophomore English class at Bishop Miege High School. Ms. Unruh’s inspiring teaching ignited a passion within him, setting him on a course that would define his adult life. When he expressed interest in writing for the school newspaper, Ms. Unruh readily recommended him to Sue Waters, the journalism program teacher. For two years, John immersed himself in school journalism, eventually becoming the editor, before furthering his education in journalism at the esteemed University of Missouri-Columbia.
From Local News to National Politics: A Journalist’s Apprenticeship
John Cochran’s professional writing career began immediately after college at The Jackson Sun, a daily newspaper in Jackson, Tennessee, where he took on the demanding role of a police reporter. This position thrust him into the heart of local events, covering crime scenes, traffic accidents, fires, and various emergencies. As the most junior member of the team, Saturdays meant general assignments, where he experienced the charm of small-town life, reporting on local parades, community barbecues known as “pig-pickings,” and other happenings around Jackson. It was during his time in Jackson, Tennessee that John developed a deep affection for the American South.
His journalistic journey continued at the News & Record in Greensboro, North Carolina. There, John expanded his skills, working as a reporter, editorial writer, and eventually politics editor. His career trajectory then led him to Washington, D.C., where he covered Congress and national politics for Congressional Quarterly. His impactful work in Washington D.C. was recognized with the prestigious Everett McKinley Dirksen Award from the National Press Foundation, honoring his distinguished reporting of Congress. This accolade solidified John Cochran’s reputation as a respected and insightful political journalist.
The Human Element: Stories That Shape a Writer
John Cochran often expresses immense gratitude for his journalism career, primarily for the extraordinary individuals he encountered from all walks of life. Listening to their diverse stories broadened his understanding of the world and honed his skills in crafting authentic dialogue, a crucial element in fiction writing. He meticulously documented the heart-wrenching experiences of families grappling with loss due to street violence in Jackson. He gained firsthand experience riding with police officers on patrol, visiting correctional facilities, and joining volunteers in the desperate search for a missing child. He shared the journeys of men and women battling drug addiction and recovery. Adding to these impactful experiences, he spent time with music icon Carl Perkins, the legendary songwriter behind “Blue Suede Shoes,” in his Tennessee home. He also explored the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains, reporting on the conservation efforts of hunters and farmers fighting against land development. His assignments covering political candidates took him across North Carolina, immersing him in local culture at barbecues, fish fries, and political rallies.
These varied and deeply human experiences provided John Cochran with a wealth of material and perspectives that would later inform his fiction writing.
A New Chapter: From Journalism to Fiction and Family
Despite his passion for journalism, a shift occurred when John Cochran’s children were born. He felt a strong calling to dedicate himself fully to his family, leading him to leave journalism and embrace the role of a stay-at-home dad. He considers this period a unique privilege, allowing him to spend invaluable time with his children, Maren and Liam, as they grew up. It was during this chapter that he began to explore fiction writing. Drawing inspiration from personal and family experiences, as well as the vivid memories of people and places encountered during his journalism years in the South, John embarked on his fiction career.
Home and Connection: Life in Washington D.C. Today
Currently, John Cochran resides in Washington, D.C., in a century-old rowhouse located a little over a mile from the U.S. Capitol. He shares his home with his wife, their children, and their three feline companions, Marley, Nya, and Opal.
John Cochran remains deeply connected to readers and fellow writers, encouraging communication and dialogue about stories and the craft of writing. He warmly invites readers to reach out with thoughts or questions via email at send me a note.
This biography of John Cochran illustrates a journey of diverse experiences that shaped a writer. From his early life moving across states to his impactful journalism career and his transition to fiction, John Cochran’s story emphasizes the power of experience and human connection in the making of an author. His dedication to both storytelling and family paints a portrait of a well-rounded individual whose work is deeply rooted in real-life observations and genuine human interest.
