Tasha Golden

Tasha Golden, Ph. D., is a singer/songwriter turned public health scientist and a leading expert on the effects of creativity and the arts on well-being and transformational change. From SXSW to the US Conference of Mayors, from POLITICO to state arts councils, from health summits to universities, Golden’s storytelling and game-changing insights motivate and inspire audiences.

As Director of Research at the International Arts + Mind Lab at Johns Hopkins University, Dr. Golden studies the profound influence of creativity and the arts on human well-being. As an international consultant, Golden has helped hundreds of organizations bolster their well-being and expand their impact. Holding a Ph.D. in Public Health, she bridges science and creativity to help audiences understand and enhance their work, purpose, and potential.

But this is not where Golden thought her life would lead. Formerly the singer-songwriter for the critically acclaimed band Ellery, her music graced stages across the globe and found homes in films and TV. But burnout and major depression drove Golden from her music career—a devastating blow that forced her to start over. This raised provocative questions that led to her Ph.D. and to studies of creativity, health, and how we ignite change.

Dr. Golden is the founder of Project Uncaged, a creative writing program for incarcerated girls, and the lead author of "Arts on Prescription: A Field Guide for US Communities." She is also the creator of "How We Human: A Professional Development Training in Mental Health and Trauma-Informed Practice"—the first training of its kind designed especially for people in creative professions.

With extensive publications in peer-reviewed journals, Golden combines scientific knowledge with professional experience, personal storytelling, and a dynamic presence that comes from years as a performer. Her pathbreaking work leaves audiences inspired, enlightened, and ready to make change.