Book Lori to Speak
Lori L. Tharps is a dynamic, creative and enthusiastic speaker, workshop leader, MC and host. Whether she’s speaking to an intimate group, or lecturing to a crowd of many, Tharps displays a natural talent for engaging her audience and leaving them inspired and motivated to take action.
Hi! I’m Lori.
I lived a pretty conventional life for over twenty years, working as a lifestyle journalist in New York City, followed by a career in academia, teaching journalism and creative writing. During that time, I wrote seven books, won some awards, birthed three babies, and achieved the status of tenured professor. But then, in 2021, I walked away from everything I knew, and moved to the south of Spain, so I could live a global, literary life.
These days, my life is all about supporting and celebrating BIPoC stories and storytellers through my brand, Reed, Write & Create. I also host an award-winning, literary podcast, and I write books that center the lives of Black and Brown people living their best lives all over the world.
My goal is to do everything I can to support a healthy and abundant literary ecosystem for BIPoC writers and the readers who love them.
Kenya G. Senior Director, Global Head of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion at Kendo Beauty
“Lori, the pleasure was indeed ours! You brought joy and spoke to so many people who were touched by your words.”
Aura N. Parent and Community Leader
“Thank you, Lori, for your honest and hopeful presentation and message. Your talk was an illuminating starting point for the work our community and the individuals within it must do.”
Hire Lori to Talk About
Who I Speak To
Employee Resource Groups
College and University Students
Conferences and Conventions
Book Clubs + Writing Groups
Literary Organizations and Associations
Black + Multiracial Sororities
Corporate Institutions Interested in the Power of Books and Storytelling to Boost Employee Engagement
Lori has delivered speeches and led workshops at colleges and universities ( Princeton, Colgate, Haverford College, Barnard College and Simmons College), for coporate clients (New York Life, Independence Blue Cross, Fenty Beauty) and at national and international conferences and conventions (AWP, NABJ, Afros & Audio Podcast Festival).
Lori has also presented and moderated panels at regional, national and international writing conferences and literary festivals including, The Celebration of Black Writing, The Miami Book Fair, The Virginia Festival of the Book, and The Calabash Literary Festival.
Whether in person or online, given her extensive background as an educator and writing coach, coupled with her training in theater, public speaking and improv comedy, Lori is particularly adept at crafting presentations that are both educational and entertaining for her diverse audiences.
Lori is also available for hosting, moderating, and MC work for literary and cultural events, award shows, and private parties. She is always interested in serving as a conversation partner for authors during their book tours as well.
And last but not least, Lori is also an Internet Ordained Minister and officiates multicultural weddings.
Let’s Talk
If you’d like to hire Lori as a speaker, moderator or workshop leader for your next event, please contact her assistant, Davis Hughes, using this Contact Form.