Black woman with box braids, glasses, and a purple sweater sitting facing the camera with a mug and books in the background

Hi, I’m L’Oreal.

I’m a Chicago-based author and journalist. My work has been featured in outlets such as Bitch, Bustle, HelloGiggles, SELF and Well + Good. Currently I’m a health and wellness reporter at Fortune. My first book, Stop Waiting for Perfect, comes out Aug. 15, 2023 and it encourages readers to stop doubting themselves and start living their best lives.

When I’m not busy writing—which, to be fair, isn’t often—I can usually be found reading, riding my Peloton or watching Real Housewives, specifically Atlanta and Potomac.

What is LT in the City Weekly?

This is a weekly motivational newsletter I started back in 2017 as an “exercise in consistency,” as my friend Anuli describes it. At the time, I was working in nonprofit PR and doing journalism on the side, but I longed for a space where I could write what I wanted when I wanted—a direct line of communication from me to my friends and followers. Thus, LT in the City Weekly was born.

In each issue, you’ll find an inspirational quote, usually by a Black woman; a letter from yours truly; a roundup of upcoming events and links to stories around the internet I find interesting; my latest obsession (typically a book, show or product I recently discovered and want to share with you as well); and job listings (mostly in media and nonprofits, given my own professional background).

Why should I subscribe?

When I first launched my newsletter, I vowed that it would always remain free. That being said, my responsibilities have expanded significantly since then and putting this newsletter together every week is a labor of love. Supporting my work and becoming a paid subscriber enables me to keep the newsletter free for everyone (sort of like NPR!).

What’s the difference between a free subscription and a paid one?

Paid subscribers receive a discount on ticketed events, as well as a shoutout in every newsletter. Plus the benefit of knowing they’re supporting a hardworking writer mom!

What are other people saying?

“#LTintheCityWeekly is one of my favorite newsletters—it’s always simple, direct and to the point with great info. L’Oreal’s mix of communication and compassion is refreshing.” ~ Melissa Kimble, founder of #blkcreatives

“As soon as I get to my desk on Wednesday mornings, I brew a cup of tea and settle in my chair to read 'L’Oreal’s weekly musings. It’s a routing that gets me through the middle of the week. I appreciate L’Oreal’s candor and perspective on all things life, work and wellness. This is one newsletter that I make a point to read each week!” ~ Anuli Akanegbu, host of BLK IRL podcast

“As a newsletter aficionado, I get tons of them in my inbox on a daily basis. But #LTintheCityWeekly is a breath of fresh air that comes in the middle of the week as a reminder that I can keep going. Additionally, I’m always inspired by the articles and words of encouragement that are shared, as well as the list of job opportunities that I usually don’t see anywhere else. L’Oreal does a great job curating relevant content, and providing her unique, light-hearted and transparent perspective.” ~ Chasity Cooper of #WineWithChas

“My friend forwarded my L’Oreal’s newsletter a while back and I just love her honesty, humor and inspirational ideas. I have so many of the #WednesdayWisdom quotes saved as screenshots on my phone. L’Oreal simultaneously cracks me up and makes me think deeply about my habits, sense of self, and place in the world.” ~ Nikki Powers

Subscribe to LT in the City Weekly

Your midweek dose of motivation & more.

People

L'Oreal Thompson Payton isn’t a regular mom, she’s a writer mom. Her debut book, Stop Waiting for Perfect, is a love letter to every highly ambitious overachiever.