Logo
L'Oreal Thompson Payton Headshot
Report a problem with this profile
[email protected]

L'Oreal Thompson Payton        

Award-Winning Journalist & Author of "Stop Waiting for Perfect: Step Out of Your Comfort Zone and Into Your Power"

L’Oreal Thompson Payton is a sought-after keynote speaker, award-winning journalist, and bestselling author dedicated to amplifying conversations at the intersection of ambition, wellness, and storytelling. With nearly two decades of experience as a writer and editor, Thompson Payton has built an illustrious career covering health, wellness, and lifestyle for major media outlets, including Fortune, Essence, The Cut, and SELF. She is the author of "Stop Waiting for Perfect: Step Out of Your Comfort Zone and Into Your Power," a pocket-sized pep talk for high-achieving women learning to embrace their worth beyond perfectionism, and "Amanda Gorman: Step into Reading," a children’s biography celebrating the inaugural National Youth Poet Laureate.

As the founder of LT in the City Media, Thompson Payton partners with global brands such as Peloton, Netflix, and Reebok to shape impactful narratives, while also leading workshops and speaking at conferences on topics like mental health, self-care for high achievers, and storytelling as a tool for empowerment. Her ability to blend journalistic rigor with personal storytelling makes her an engaging speaker, whether she is moderating panels at Fortune’s Brainstorm Health conference, delivering keynotes or workshops for organizations such The Mom Project, Girl Scouts and Northwestern University, or guiding mindfulness sessions that create space for reflection and healing.

Recognized as one of Chicago Reader’s Best Nonfiction Writers (2024) and a recipient of multiple leadership and advocacy awards, Thompson Payton’s work extends beyond the stage. She is a 300-hour certified yoga instructor, a board member of Permission to Write, and a mentor dedicated to uplifting the next generation of storytellers. Whether she is speaking to corporate teams, college students, or creative entrepreneurs, her message is clear: ambition and wellness are not mutually exclusive: you can chase your dreams and take care of yourself, too.

Speech Topics

Stop Waiting for Perfect: Step Out of Your Comfort Zone and Into Your Power

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 in this talk led by "Stop Waiting for Perfect" author and award-winning journalist L'Oreal Thompson Payton.

This session 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.

Key Takeaways:

  • Real-life tips for navigating feelings of self-doubt and how to minimize its impact on your pursuit of success
  • Effective methods for embracing accomplishments, accepting vulnerabilities, and thriving in the here and now
  • Strategies for overcoming chronic perfectionism/“perfect moment” syndrome and acting on dreams and goals with confidence and immediacy

Infertile Black Girl: On Motherhood, Mental Health and the Journey to Healing & Hope

Infertility can be a challenging and emotionally taxing experience for anyone, but it can be particularly complex for Black women. This workshop aims to provide an insightful overview of the unique factors that affect infertility in Black women, including cultural, social and medical aspects. We will explore the challenges they face, dispel common myths, and provide valuable information to help participants better understand and navigate this journey.

Key Takeaways:

  • Recognize the impact of cultural beliefs, taboos, and stigmas related to infertility within the Black community
  • Address the emotional toll of infertility and how it can be amplified by societal expectations and stereotypes
  • Provide coping strategies and mental health resources to support Black women during their infertility journey
  • Highlight support networks, advocacy organizations, and communities that can provide emotional support and resources for Black women dealing with infertility

Balancing Brilliance: Nurturing Mental Health & Wellness for Ambitious Career Women

In today's fast-paced world, ambitious career women often find themselves juggling multiple roles and responsibilities, which can take a toll on their mental health and overall well-being. This workshop aims to empower and equip ambitious career women with the tools and strategies they need to prioritize and nurture their mental health while pursuing their professional and personal goals.

Key Takeaways:

  • Better understand the mind-body connection
  • Learn effective stress management techniques
  • Explore strategies for prioritizing self-care with a busy schedule
  • Learn how to recognize a toxic workplace and advocate for a healthier one
  • Develop a long-term wellness plan for a thriving career and life

Related Speakers View all

More like L'Oreal