An independent writer, editor, strategist, lecturer and creative director, Leah Baltus crafts stories that stir change and inspire human connection. While serving in various leadership roles over her 20-year career, she has consistently built community around social impact and authenticity. This experience guides her philosophy about how healthy, fulfilling teams are the foundation of effective engagement with external audiences. From 2011 to 2018, Leah was editor in chief of City Arts, an award-winning magazine that celebrated, demystified and bridged Seattle’s creative community in its many forms. She previously served as brand and editorial director at Pyramid Communications, producing messaging, materials and events for leading nonprofits and philanthropies in the region. She also founded and ran the national zine RIVET and is a co-founder of the artist support nonprofit Shunpike. Before arriving in Seattle in 2001, she worked for a Hollywood literary manager, helping to facilitate screen adaptations of books and magazine stories. Leah grew up in the Detroit suburbs and studied journalism and creative writing at Northwestern University, where she earned her BA.