Women To Watch 2025 honoree Marla J. Albertie

Marla J. Albertie is a visionary leader, entrepreneur, and expert in Industrial and Organizational (I/O) Psychology with a passion for transforming lives through education, coaching, and empowerment. A proud U.S. Navy veteran, her leadership journey began at 19 aboard the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, where she learned resilience, discipline, and the power of service. These values continue to drive her work today as the founder of TruthSpeaksGroup LLC, a multimedia company dedicated to work-life integration, and I/O for Teens Inc., a nonprofit that introduces teens to the science of human behavior to help them build confidence, skills, and career pathways.

With over 25 years of experience in business, coaching, and training, Marla is a certified career, executive, and life coach, an Amazon bestselling author, and an advocate for marginalized women in the workplace. Her research in I/O Psychology focuses on job crafting, workplace autonomy, and inclusion, particularly for women navigating professional spaces.

Education has always been central to Marla’s mission. She holds a PhD in I/O Psychology, a Master of Education in Adult Education, and degrees in Supervision and Management and Financial services. She shares her expertise as an adjunct instructor at SNHU and workshop facilitator, equipping professionals with the tools they need to thrive. Her leadership extends to board memberships and affiliations with professional organizations such as SIOP, FIOP, ATD, APA, ICF, and Blacks in I/O.

Beyond her career, Marla is deeply committed to mentorship and community impact, having worked with Girls Inc., the Junior League of Jacksonville, The Womens Center of Jackonville, and ATD. She is also the driving force behind TDB-YKWIS, a sock brand honoring her late son, with a portion of the proceeds supporting suicide prevention efforts.

Marla's creative pursuits include writing, poetry, and public speaking. She has authored two books, contributed to anthologies, and currently develops workbooks and journals to help individuals and businesses apply I/O psychology principles to real-life challenges. She also hosted a Women's Conference I.M.A.G.IN.E  and YouTube talk show, "Creating Your Career with Marla J. Albertie," which provided insights on career development and personal growth.

When she’s not working to change the world, Marla enjoys traveling—especially cruising—reading, shopping, and spending time with her glam-son. She is a firm believer in lifelong learning, servant leadership, and the philosophy that we can all create the lives we want. Her mantra, #TeachTrainEducate, reflects her unwavering commitment to helping others discover their truth and define success on their own terms.