Profiles

Ellery Weil is a historian and writer who holds degrees from the University of Michigan and University College London. In her spare time, she likes cooking, theater, and petting dogs she meets on the street.

Kristine Gill is a freelance writer and editor based in Ohio with a background in newspaper journalism and public-sector communications. 

Joey Held is a writer and author and the founder of Fun Fact Friyay. He’s regularly planning travel adventures and encourages exploring new places with curiosity and kindness.

Britteny has worked as a professional writer for more than a decade. She launched her career as a features writer in New York City, covering fashion, food, hospitality, and beauty. She has contributed to a wide range of publications, including Bitches Who Brunch, International Business Times and Glam, and has worked with famous faces such…

Tanya Bricking Leach is a freelance journalist who writes about people, science, health and travel. She’s drawn to stories with a strong sense of place and personality. A former newspaper reporter, hospital communicator and video producer, she now works from wherever she is — sometimes from a quiet desk, sometimes from the road. Her work…

Olivia Krauth is Hellbender Newsroom’s political correspondent. A lifelong Kentuckian, she previously covered education and politics for The Courier Journal before pivoting to independent journalism. Her reporting has earned a range of accolades and recognitions, including being named Louisville’s 2025 Best Local Writer. Have a story tip? Reach Olivia at oliviakrauth@couriernewsroom.com. To get her reporting…