Head of Content Journalist Host Media & Career Coach

I take big ideas
from concept
to execution.

Pleased to meet you, I’m Michelle Vartan, a media career-ist first entering as a writer and now leading creative teams to do their best work. My journey started in print magazines where I developed editorial rigor. Inspired by visual storytelling, I pivoted into broadcast journalism through a masters program at USC and then ultimately landed in digital where I’ve spend the past decade mastering content ideation and production. While emerging platforms rise and fall, my motive has stayed the course—to make real impact on people through powerful creative. I’m passionate about health, culture, human interest, and women’s empowerment. I work with brands on a mission to move and inspire audiences in both contract and full-time roles.

My superpower is bringing big ideas to life with a collaborative, creative, and tenacious spirit. I’ve successfully driven high-profile projects forward for legacy and startup organizations including NBC, Everyday Health, Reader’s Digest, and more. I’m also a warm and confident on-camera interviewer who draws out thought-provoking conversations.

Based in Los Angeles, I’m a champion of my family, good girlfriends, fitness, nature and a life enriched by experiences.

“A media industry unicorn.”

What I Do.

Head of Content

The Content Conductor

I partner with leadership to drive creative through:

Operations: Launch projects or startups, build and improve team performance, optimize content workflows and calendars

Brand Personality: Establish content pillars and foundation, create brand style guide and voice with continuity across channels including Google Discover, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, Substack, Newsletters, and more.

Content Strategy & Development: Lead ideation for articles, video, and podcasts leveraging AI, SEO, and GEO best practices.

Host

Find the Good

I’m a seasoned on-camera reporter, host and interviewer delivering engaging, insightful, and surprising visual storytelling. Whether in the field or hosting a podcast, I bring a warm, confident presence that puts subjects at ease drawing out their honest insights. View my reel here or check out my channel @TheLifeDeskWithMichelle where I share tips on mastering work and life.

Journalist

Investigating Human Potential

I cover health, travel, experiences, human interest, and women’s empowerment. My bylines are in the Los Angeles Times, SELF, The Washington Post, NBC News, and more. See my writing portfolio here.

Media & Career Coach

The People’s Champion

I partner with media organizations to strengthen team structure, performance, and morale through consulting and 1:1 or group coaching. Sessions cover presentation and pitching, editorial judgment, and leadership development with a focus on internal influence and balancing big ideas with organizational demands.