Author and world building strategist Randy Ellefson has written fantasy fiction and created fictional worlds since the 1980s. In addition to authoring the most detailed world building books available, he's the founder and lead instructor at World Building University, blogs regularly on the subject, and hosts a popular podcast. The Writer's of the Future contest has recognized his writing three times.

He has a Bachelor's of Music in classical guitar but has always been more of a rocker, having released several albums and earned endorsements from music companies.

A professional software architect, he has worked for NASA, the State Department, and White House, and run a successful consulting firm in the Washington D.C. area. He loves spending time with his son and daughter when not writing, making music, or playing golf.