Leah Asmelash is a culture writer at CNN, known for her sharp, insightful coverage of arts, pop culture, race, fashion, and the intersections of identity and consumer trends. Her work often explores how everyday objects—like food, fashion, or memes—reflect deeper societal shifts. She’s written on everything from the decline of music festivals to the rise of food as a status symbol, and even the cultural obsession with plush toys like Jellycats1.

She’s also described herself as a “sad Minnesota sports fan and culture writer/overthinker,” and proudly identifies as the child of immigrants. Her writing brings both wit and depth to the evolving cultural landscape.