LEAH N. SMITH
STORYTELLER
With nearly 25 years in media, three Emmy Awards, and a passion for impactful storytelling, I bring compelling narratives to life from breaking news to feature documentaries.
SEASONED FILMMAKER
Nearly 25 years of experience crafting powerful narratives that inform, engage, and inspire audiences worldwide
FROM CNN TO NBC
I began my career at CNN News, contributing to the launch of "Anderson Cooper 360." During my time there, I covered significant events including 9/11, Hurricane Katrina, and various presidential elections, earning two News Emmys for coverage of the Haiti earthquake.
In 2013, I received another News and Documentary Emmy for "Kids on Race: the Hidden Picture," a documentary commissioned by CNN. Currently, I'm working on my third collaboration with Trilogy Films under the guidance of esteemed documentarian Dawn Porter.
My latest project, "Luther: Never Too Much," showcases my enduring love for music, particularly the melodic sounds of Luther Vandross. I hold a BA in English from the University of Virginia.
MILESTONES & ACHIEVEMENTS
From breaking news to feature documentaries, a career defined by excellence
CNN NEWS
Anderson Cooper 360
Contributed to the launch of "Anderson Cooper 360" and covered major events including 9/11, Hurricane Katrina, and presidential elections. Developed expertise in breaking news coverage and live television production.
HAITI EARTHQUAKE COVERAGE
Two Emmy Awards
Earned two News Emmy Awards for exceptional coverage of the Haiti earthquake, demonstrating ability to deliver impactful journalism during crisis situations while maintaining sensitivity and accuracy.
KIDS ON RACE
CNN Documentary
Received News and Documentary Emmy for "Kids on Race: the Hidden Picture," a groundbreaking CNN-commissioned documentary exploring children's perspectives on race and diversity in America.
NBC NIGHTLY NEWS
With Lester Holt
Transitioned to NBC Nightly News with Lester Holt, continuing focus on impactful storytelling and bringing important stories to millions of viewers across America.
LUTHER: NEVER TOO MUCH
Trilogy Films
Third collaboration with Trilogy Films under Dawn Porter's guidance. This documentary celebrates the life and music of Luther Vandross, combining my passion for music with compelling storytelling.
EMMY AWARDS
Honored by the Television Academy for excellence in news production and documentary filmmaking
News Emmy Award #1
Recognized for exceptional coverage of the Haiti earthquake.
News Emmy Award #2
Second Emmy for Haiti earthquake coverage.
News & Documentary Emmy
"Kids on Race: the Hidden Picture" - CNN documentary.
FEATURED PRODUCTIONS
A showcase of award-winning work spanning breaking news, documentaries, and special programming
HAITI EARTHQUAKE
Comprehensive coverage of the devastating Haiti earthquake.
KIDS ON RACE
"The Hidden Picture" - CNN documentary on children's perspectives.
LUTHER: NEVER TOO MUCH
A celebration of Luther Vandross's life and music.
Founded by Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Leah N. Smith, Eastlake Productions specializes in creating powerful documentaries and news content that resonates with audiences worldwide. With nearly 25 years of experience and a commitment to excellence, we bring stories to life with authenticity, impact, and cinematic quality.
DOCUMENTARIES
Feature-length and short-form documentaries.
NEWS PRODUCTION
Breaking news coverage and special reports.
CONTENT DEVELOPMENT
Original content for all platforms.
CONSULTING
Production consulting and advisory services.
READY TO CREATE SOMETHING EXTRAORDINARY?
Let's collaborate through Eastlake Productions on your next award-winning project
Start a Conversation