WRITING

L'Oreal Thompson Payton is an author and award-winning journalist specializing in health and wellness stories at the intersection of race and gender.

For nearly two decades, I’ve worked across print and digital media, bringing narrative depth and cultural analysis to every story. My reporting examines not only individual experience, but the systems and narratives that shape it.

A woman with glasses and curly hair, wearing a yellow blazer, is writing in a planner at a yellow table. There is a black chair and some greenery in the background.
A woman with glasses and curly hair, wearing a yellow blazer, is writing in a planner at a yellow table. There is a black chair and some greenery in the background.

  • As a cover writer for Business Traveler, I’ve interviewed cultural leaders including Questlove, Tracee Ellis Ross and Jennifer Hudson.

    These long-form profiles explore creativity, influence, leadership, and legacy — offering insight beyond the headline.

  • I examine how race, gender, and cultural expectation shape mental health — particularly for women taught to equate strength with silence.

  • My reporting interrogates workplace culture, leadership narratives, economic inequity, and the subtle expectations that shape professional identity.

  • I report on infertility, maternal mental health, caregiving, and the intersection of race and reproductive health — expanding conversations often kept private.

  • In addition to reported journalism, I collaborate with select brands and institutions on long-form storytelling and thought leadership projects that center equity, longevity, leadership, and impact.

  • I partner with mission-driven organizations to shape narrative strategy, executive thought leadership, and long-form impact storytelling.

MY WORK HAS APPEARED IN
A black silhouette of a bird perched on a branch with leaves against a white background.
The image features the words 'BUSINESS TRAVELER' in dark text on a black background.
Fortune magazine logo with the word 'FORTUNE' in bold black letters
Logo for The Cut with the word 'The' above the word 'Cut' in a stylized font.
Silhouette of a cactus on a hill at sunset with a colorful sky in the background.
Graphic design with the phrase "Life is What You Make It" in black text on a transparent background. 
ACROSS OUTLETS AND AUDIENCES, MY WORK RETURNS TO ONE CENTRAL QUESTION:

What becomes possible when we tell the truth about the lives we are living — and lead from there?

I remain open to select editorial assignments and narrative partnerships aligned with this focus.

For inquiries: loreal@ltinthecity.com