L’Oreal Thompson Payton is a Chicago-based author, award-winning journalist and keynote speaker.
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L’Oreal Thompson Payton is a Chicago-based author, award-winning journalist, keynote speaker and the founder of LT in the City Media.
L’Oreal’s journey began with a passion for storytelling that has driven her to build a successful career in media and communications. Her compelling narratives and insightful commentary have earned her accolades and recognition, making her a sought-after voice in the industry. Her work has appeared in top publications, such as Essence, Fortune, SELF and Well + Good, where she has told stories that resonate, spark change, and uplift readers.
With her debut book, Stop Waiting for Perfect: Step Out of Your Comfort Zone and Into Your Power, L'Oreal demonstrates her commitment to uplifting others, encouraging them to embrace their full potential and live life boldly. Through her compelling storytelling and thought-provoking insights, L'Oreal continues to inspire audiences around the world to overcome challenges and embrace personal growth.
As the founder of LT in the City Media, a multimedia platform for ambitious millennial women and anyone seeking to make their mark, L’Oreal is dedicated to inspiring, informing, and uplifting others through her multifaceted talents as a writer, speaker, podcast host and certified yoga teacher.
MY PHILOSOPHY“I just want to write. And help women and girls. That’s it. That’s the tweet.”
MY BOOK
Stop Waiting
for Perfect
You have Big Dreams for living a Big Life, but you have one Big Problem—you don’t trust yourself. Learn how to let go of that self-doubt and change your life.
You are smart, brilliant, and beyond talented, but if you’re a woman, particularly a Black woman or woman of color, you’re likely prone to doubting yourself. What’s more, society often reinforces the idea that you—that we—don’t deserve the success we do achieve. But that couldn’t be further from the truth.
You just need to believe in yourself and trust your own greatness.
In Stop Waiting for Perfect, L’Oreal is using hard-won insight to be your guide, your big sister, your best friend, and personal cheerleader to help you through your own journey. She’s penned the pocket-sized pep talk to walk with you through any obstacle in your career or personal life.
This book will force you to stop playing small and encourage you to fully step into your power and walk in your purpose. It will awaken the dreams you buried deep within your soul long ago because you thought they were impossible, unattainable—available to other people, but not you. Until now.
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WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
“With tongue-in-cheek charm and down-to-earth sense, L’Oreal Thompson Payton makes it easy to live life loud (or, at least, louder) and act with enthusiasm, courage, and trust in your own talent.”
Minda Harts, workplace and equity consultant and author of The Memo
“Life is hard, but sometimes the way we talk to and about ourselves can be harder. So getting sound advice from someone who’s not only going to remind you of your greatness but also help you get out of your own way is a joy. ”
Phoebe Robinson, New York Times bestselling author, actor, and comedian
“An incomparable blueprint for any person, especially those among us who are marginalized, who want to get off the hamster wheel of perfection and reclaim their ability to be simply human. Let L’Oreal’s book serve as a brilliant and urgent reminder that we are already enough, regardless of what we’ve achieved.”
Evette Dionne, award-winning author of Lifting as We Climb and Weightless
CBS Mornings
Author, journalist and motivational speaker L'Oreal Thompson Payton joins CBS Mornings to discuss her new book Stop Waiting for Perfect: Step Out of Your Comfort Zone and Into Your Power.
Chicago Tonight: Black Voices
Perfectionism might sound like a good thing, but in practice, it can perform more like procrastination – and waiting for perfect scenarios can prevent us from getting the credit and success we deserve.
MY NEWSLETTER
LT in the
City Weekly
At LT in the City Media, we empower ambitious millennial women through engaging storytelling and insightful conversations.
Founded in 2013 by L'Oreal Thompson Payton, our mission is to be the go-to online destination for women seeking inspiration, guidance, and connection. Through our weekly newsletter, LT in the City Weekly, and our monthly podcast, The LT in the City Podcast, we provide a warm, friendly, and conversational space that feels like brunch with your best friend or big sister.
We believe in celebrating the diverse experiences and achievements of modern women while offering practical advice and uplifting stories that resonate with our audience.
Join us on a journey of empowerment, growth, and sisterhood at LT in the City Media.
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MY WORK
A Peek at
My Portfolio
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Throughout my career, I’ve worked with esteemed publications and media outlets, such as Business Traveler, Design Observer, Essence, Fortune, New York Magazine, SELF and Well + Good, contributing insightful personal essays, celebrity interviews and features that shed light on important societal issues and amplify the voices of marginalized communities.
My dedication to fostering meaningful conversations and driving positive change has made me a respected figure within the industry and beyond. My writing reflects my deep empathy and understanding of the human experience, showcasing my ability to connect with audiences on a profound level.
Whether you're looking to tell a compelling story, share your unique perspective, or report on the issues that matter, I’ve got you covered
SPEAKING
L’Oreal
in Action
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As a dynamic and engaging speaker, L’Oreal has shared her expertise and empowering message at various events, conferences, universities and organizations, inspiring audiences to embrace personal growth and cultivate resilience in the face of challenges.
Her ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and foster a sense of community has made her a highly sought-after speaker in the realms of personal development, empowerment, and leadership.
Whether you need a keynote speaker to inspire your audience, a moderator to steer a panel discussion, or a workshop leader to provide hands-on learning, L’Oreal will work with your team to ensure your attendees leave with the tools to succeed in their personal and professional life.
MY SERVICES
Work With L’Oreal
Whether you’re an aspiring author, a freelance writer, a corporate leader, or someone on a journey to personal wellness, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
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From insightful books to magazine features and personal essays, I create content that captivates and informs. My writing is a blend of authenticity and expertise, designed to engage and inspire.
I also help nonprofits and corporations tell their stories with clarity and impact through annual reports, blogs, newsletters, and more.
View my portfolio here.
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As a motivational speaker, I bring energy, insight, and inspiration to every event. Whether it’s a keynote address, a panel discussion, or a workshop, I aim to leave a lasting impression. Book me here.
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Helping writers achieve their goals is one of my greatest joys. From navigating the freelance world to writing your first book, my coaching services are tailored to your unique journey. Learn more about my offerings here.
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As a certified yoga and meditation teacher, I offer personalized yoga sessions and corporate wellness programs to help you find balance and peace in your busy life. Find out more here.
Let's create together
Let's create together
I believe in the power of community and the magic that happens when we uplift and support one another. Through my work, I hope to create a space where you feel empowered to pursue your passions, tell your story, and embrace your best self.
Thank you for being here. Let’s connect, collaborate, and create something extraordinary together.