About

Laura Smythe currently specializes in executive and corporate communications strategy, shaping high-impact narratives that drive tourism, economic development, and civic pride across the Philadelphia region.

She is an award-winning strategic communications leader and business reporter. Laura previously worked in newsrooms including Forbes, Philadelphia Business Journal, The Philadelphia Inquirer, Philadelphia Gay News, and Philadelphia magazine, covering topics including tourism and hospitality, politics, and technology.

Having traveled to 29 countries, lived in five, and reported internationally in South Africa and Sweden, Laura approaches her work through a multicultural, globally informed lens that equips her to handle sensitive topics with care.

Laura graduated summa cum laude from Temple University with a degree in journalism, and now serves as Director-At-Large on the Lew Klein College of Media and Communication Alumni Board.

Core belief

Authentic communication is the solution to most problems

On My Desk

Organized chaos

Favorite Book to Gift

What My Bones Know

Deadline fuel

Espresso and protein bars

A smiling woman with long blonde hair wearing a black sleeveless top and gold chain necklace, standing against a dark background with a purple accent.

An Award-Winning Strategic Communications Leader

She is passionate about transparency in the media industry, building trust with audiences, and mental health advocacy.

Laura’s areas of expertise include business journalism, newsletters, editing, brand copywriting, media consulting, ghost writing, and media relations.

Get in touch.

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Featured In

Logo of Philadelphia Business Journal with blue text on white background.
Red and white logo with the text "Visit Philadelphia."
A black-and-white image of a detailed design or illustration.
Logo for Philadelphia Magazine, featuring a black circle with a white letter P, and the text 'Philadelphia' in bold black letters with 'MAGAZINE' in smaller black letters underneath.
Logo of The Philadelphia Inquirer in black gothic font
Purple background with white text reading 'pgn'
A woman smiling and posing on a balcony decorated with a large American flag. City buildings and trees are visible in the background.
A woman with long blonde hair, wearing a white sleeveless top and cream wide-leg pants, stands smiling at an outdoor event under a large white tent. There are tables with bottles and products, and several people mingling and taking photos in the background.

Laura’s core values: integrity, authenticity, transparency, and honesty.

“One of my core beliefs is that everyone is entitled to the unbiased truth so that they can make their own informed decisions. I admire journalism’s commitment to the truth, even when telling it is hard.” 

Have a story, idea, or opportunity? I’d love to connect.

- Laura Smythe, Journalist, Speaker, Storyteller

Let’s Connect