Leading by Example:
Marietta Colston-Davis on Breaking Barriers
I’m Marietta Colston-Davis, a technology executive, board leader, and keynote speaker with experience at IBM, Microsoft, and Tata Consulting. I’ve driven over $8 billion in revenue, built billion-dollar businesses, and led high-performing teams.
As a board member and speaker, I share insights on leadership, women in tech, and business growth. Honored with Spelman’s Game Changer Award, I’m committed to mentoring women of color leaders.
Beyond business, I support nonprofits like Youth Villages and The Posse Foundation and led Vision to Learn’s Atlanta initiative, providing free eye exams to underserved children.
A bestselling author, I’ve shared my journey in From Autism to Beyond and inspired young minds with Earning Your Stripes. Featured in Thrive Global and HuffPost, I hold degrees from Bradley and Loyola University with executive certifications from Harvard.
Now, I focus on coaching and inspiring women leaders to break barriers and achieve the impossible. Let’s make an impact together.
Coming Soon December 2026
Rising Above
In the tapestry of my life, I’ve woven moments of triumph, threads of perseverance, and colors of experiences that define who I am today. Being different can be a hindrance or a superpower–it is all in how you deal with the obstacles of life.
Discover Stories That Inspire, Empower, and Transform.
“Our wounds are often the openings into the best and most beautiful part of us.”
“Explore my bestselling books: The Most Unbelievable Surprise, From Autism to Beyond, and Earning Your Stripes. Each book is crafted to inspire resilience, leadership, and personal growth.”
Words of Wisdom
By Marietta Colston Davis
You asked for elevation. Don’t curse the climb.
Every struggle, every unexpected turn — it’s the form your blessing chose.
Be grateful not just for the answer to your prayer, but for the custom design God made just for you.
Recovery is a mission, not a mood. We don’t wait for better—we chase it, guided by faith and fueled by grace. Setbacks may knock us down, but staying down isn’t our calling. Rest if you must, but then rise, restart, and move. Progress doesn’t come looking for you—you walk into it, step by step, trusting that purpose walks with you.
What people are saying about Marietta
“Marietta’s leadership at Microsoft was transformative. She built high-performing teams, set clear expectations, and focused on key business metrics. Many she mentored became successful leaders. Her ability to inspire confidence, develop talent, and drive growth makes her an invaluable asset to any executive team.”
“Marietta is a straight shooter, team player, and invaluable board member. Her mentorship helped me navigate board dynamics as CEO. She contributes strategically, adding real value to execution and long-term vision. Her dedication to leadership development and coaching makes her an exceptional asset to any organization.”
“Marietta is a visionary leader who uplifts others. She builds strong relationships, mentors talent, and drives business growth. Her passion for empowering women in STEM and fostering leadership makes her truly inspiring. She creates opportunities for success and is a game-changer in any environment.”
“A mentor’s mentor and a coach’s coach, Marietta has faithfully built exceptional leaders for decades. She thrives on making others successful and pushing others to achieve their potential. She is a force multiplier and force of nature!”
“A mentor’s mentor and a coach’s coach, Marietta has faithfully built exceptional leaders for decades. She thrives on making others successful and pushing others to achieve their potential. She is a force multiplier and force of nature!”
“I have known Marietta for over 10 years and am constantly amazed as to her insight, energy and practical knowledge. She brings a fresh (and necessary) new perspective to complex business problems often resulting in transformational innovation. She radiates excellence and serves as a very relatable advisor”
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