H.A. Hang: Laura Brzyski, Health & Wellness Editor for Philadelphia Magazine

The coolest part of our business has always been our clients. We’re amazed by all they do: CEOs and business owners, world travelers, authors, inventors, healers, entrepreneurs, newscasters, artists, pro athletes, musicians, caretakers, and philanthropists. 

We launched this series to share the stories of our clients and form connections within the H.A. community. Enjoy!

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You've been covering health and wellness for Philly Mag and Be Well Philly for more than six years, how did you start in journalism? 
Laura Brzyski: After leaving a six-year career as a high school English teacher, I decided to pursue a second Master’s degree, an MFA in Creative Writing. During the first year of my program, in 2019, I attended a fitness event hosted by Be Well Philly and casually said to another attendee that writing for Philly Mag would be a dream. Turns out, the person I was talking to was the wellness editor at the time! She asked about my qualifications, then interviewed me — they were looking for a contributing writer — and I got the job. Two years later, I was promoted to wellness editor and have been in this role since! 

Home Appétit: Where are you originally from? 
I am originally from Philly! I grew up in Mayfair, in the Northeast. Now I reside in Grad Hospital with my husband, two-year-old daughter, and 11-year-old Boxer. Born, raised, and never leaving :)

What are some of your standout memories from working at Philly Mag? 
Every year, I'm super proud to see our big wellness event, Be Well Philly Fest, come to life. It’s a true representation of what the brand stands for: engaging in fun, good-for-you activities with fellow wellness enthusiasts. I love seeing the event flourish from the beginning stages of planning to the day of, when our readers are in community with each other and industry leaders. It’s kind of like my Super Bowl! (Shameless plug: This year's event is happening on Sunday, May 17th at Bok!)

The wellness world is changing every day. What are some of your favorite trends, what are some things you wish would change?
I’ve been totally immersed in the wellness world for the past seven years and a lot has changed for the better.

People are really invested in the ‘why’ of their health. Instead of chasing “look good” fitness, nutrition and skincare/beauty trends, more individuals are pursuing activities and products that have real, measurable long-term benefits — it’s why we’re seeing things like longevity tech, social spas, sleep retreats, and gut health getting so much buzz right now. (PSA to do your research — TikTok doesn’t count!)

I'm especially glad to see greater attention given to perimenopause and menopause, both of which have been historically overlooked and misunderstood. More healthcare professionals, media outlets, celebrities, and social circles are talking openly about these life stages, which I find empowering and essential to women’s health.

What are some of your favorite local businesses and organizations?

• Together Athletics (Old City) - This is my go-to fitness studio! Mat sculpt, especially, is such a good, low-impact burn.
• REAP Wellness (Fishtown) - I am obsessed with their nutritious glow bowls (Taco Salad Supreme is my favorite), smoothies, and sweet treats, including their take on a Snickers bar.
• The Wildflower Collective (Havertown) - I have found an amazing community of women and moms here. It’s owned by local mom, photographer, and maternal mental health advocate, Rachel Creighton, and is now a designated nonprofit.
• Mish Mish (East Passyunk) - I take everyone I know to Mish Mish for dinner! Alex and his team consistently serve up juicy wines, satiating dishes, and killer playlists. 
• Remedy Spa & Wellness (Brewerytown) - Remedy might look unassuming from the outside, but it’s one of the best day spas in the entire region.