I am Dr. Natashia Stafford-Cotton, a native of Portland, Oregon, and I have spent most of my life in Northern California. I hold a doctorate and master’s degree in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from Walden University, along with an MBA (with a concentration in Executive Business Management) and a BA in Behavioral Science from National University. I am married and blessed with four children and three dogs.

In addition to being a corporate professional and scholar, I am a church girl and will forever identify as a proud PK. In both my grandfathers and father’s church is where my gifts and talents as:  singer/songwriter, praise and worship leader, motivational speaker, presenter, teacher, and mentor were birthed. The church is also where my love of people was formed. It is where my in-depth understanding of forgiveness was cultivated and my ability to recognize the power of empathy and relatability originated. It is why I choose to find or create joy in my life and when life’s challenges attempt to bog me down, it is the foundation for how I faith it til I make it! 

I have had many opportunities of presenting God’s word in my unique fashion at women’s breakfasts and luncheons, youth conferences and special church events. Similarly, invited as guest soloist, featured speaker, or program MC. 

My experiences are not solely based in the church. I have also facilitated corporate presentations and training sessions on various diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging topics. I have introduced research to audiences surrounding the topic of equitable and ethical hiring practices. As an instructor, I’ve taught general psychology and business writing courses. Since 2007 (to date) I have worked with various school districts as a professional, contracted tutor for K-12 students.   

If I had to choose a statement that sums up why I do what I do, it would be the quote, ‘…You’re changed by the books you read and the people you meet’ by Charlie Jones.  I intentionally strive to do a bit of both. 

Interested in having me at your upcoming event, big or small, Let’s connect!