Storyteller. Author. Entrepreneur. Certified Co-Active Coach.

For most of my career, I’ve helped people pay closer attention — to the world, to wonder, to storytelling, and increasingly, to themselves.
I spent two decades at National Geographic doing many things, including transforming a hidden gem into the $65M National Geographic Kids award-winning, best-selling, multi-platform brand. I love creating content, building businesses, and developing franchises that connect emotionally with audiences.
Today I’m the Founder and President of Fun Factory Press, a boutique publishing company specializing in distinctive content for adults and children. We recently launched Penguin Random House’s Totally Random Kids line to rave reviews.
I’m also a certified Co-Active life coach, helping thoughtful people navigate reinvention, creativity, identity shifts, and life’s next chapter with more curiosity, self-trust, and joy.
I’m full of ideas and always excited about what’s possible—let’s talk!
Melina has written for The New York Times, National Geographic Traveler, Entertainment Weekly, The Washingtonian, AARP’s The Girlfriend, Glamour, Elle, and Cosmopolitan, among many other publications.

Photograph by Becky Hale