Unlocking Human Potential:
The Science of Resilience & Inherent Goodness
The Science of Resilience & Inherent Goodness
Recognizing the potential
in all of us
Dr. Bonnie Goff is an internationally recognized speaker specializing in academic, professional, and cultural interests related to the field of psychology. She combines cutting-edge research with powerful personal experiences to challenge perspectives, spark curiosity, and drive meaningful change so that the audience can truly begin to tap into their potential.
She’s a developmental psychologist, award-winning educator, and dynamic speaker who transforms science into relatable, actionable insights. Raised in a restrictive cult and overcoming profound childhood adversity, Bonnie has continued to defy the odds - returning to school at 30, earning her Bachelor’s degree in psychology and completing her Ph.D. by 36, and dedicating her career to understanding the neurobiological effects of early adversity.
Now a full-time lecturer at UCLA, she combines science with personal experience to engage, educate, and inspire students and audiences to rethink adversity, foster resilience, and create lasting change.
Expanding Impact Through Collaboration
FEATURED IN:
5 REASONS TO BOOK BONNIE
Virtual and In-Person
Speaking Engagements
Dr. Goff is available for keynote speeches, workshops, and panel discussions in both virtual and in-person formats, and can command both intimate workshops and large-scale keynotes with equal impact.
Whether you're an educator, parent, healthcare professional, or corporate leader, Bonnie tailors her insights to meet the unique needs of each audience. Her expertise in childhood adversity, resilience, and human potential applies across industries, making her a powerful speaker for a variety of events.
Book her for schools, conferences, corporate events, nonprofits, and more! Inquire about your event using the contact form below.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
You don’t just share knowledge—you change the way people see themselves, their children, and the world. Bonnie is this incredible combination of funny, entertaining, brilliant and fierce...she energizes audiences and makes it seem effortless to deliver the meaning and impact complex scientific research has on real life, families and communities. She is a skillful and engaging storyteller that often leaves audiences mind blown, connected and laughing at the same time.
Tiffany Sudela - Junker
Board Member/ Parenting Program Director for the Attachment & Trauma Network
Bonnie's energy, presence, & storytelling make her an incredible speaker. The times I've had the privilege to see her speak, I have been dazzled by her ability to draw others in & make personal connections. She is far & away my student's favorite faculty member at UCLA with many taking any class she offers. After seeing her in action, I completely understand why. She leads with kindness, connects with her real-world examples, and pushes you to think critically.
Sarah Molitoris
Associate Director of the UCLA
Transfer Student Center
Bonnie is a truly captivating speaker who draws you in with her warmth, passion, and deep knowledge. She effortlessly blends research-backed insights with engaging storytelling, making every talk both informative and inspiring. Bonnie has a way of making you feel connected, curious, and eager to learn more.
Wendy Bruns
Outreach & Communications Director, APPPAH
(Association for Prenatal & Perinatal Psychology and Health)
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
You don’t just share knowledge—you change the way people see themselves, their children, and the world. Bonnie is this incredible combination of funny, entertaining, brilliant and fierce...she energizes audiences and makes it seem effortless to deliver the meaning and impact complex scientific research has on real life, families and communities. She is a skillful and engaging storyteller that often leaves audiences mind blown, connected and laughing at the same time.
Tiffany Sudela - Junker
Board Member/ Parenting Program Director for the Attachment & Trauma Network
Bonnie's energy, presence, & storytelling make her an incredible speaker. The times I've had the privilege to see her speak, I have been dazzled by her ability to draw others in & make personal connections. She is far & away my student's favorite faculty member at UCLA with many taking any class she offers. After seeing her in action, I completely understand why. She leads with kindness, connects with her real-world examples, and pushes you to think critically.
Sarah Molitoris
Associate Director of the UCLA
Transfer Student Center
Bonnie is a truly captivating speaker who draws you in with her warmth, passion, and deep knowledge. She effortlessly blends research-backed insights with engaging storytelling, making every talk both informative and inspiring. Bonnie has a way of making you feel connected, curious, and eager to learn more.
Wendy Bruns
Outreach & Communications Director, APPPAH
(Association for Prenatal & Perinatal Psychology and Health)
- UCLA Psychology Department’s Distinguished Teaching Award, 2023
- California State University Outstanding Professor Award, 2017
- California State University Research, Scholarship, Creative Activity Recognition, 2017
- Runner Up, UCLA Alumni - My Last Lecture 2025 Professor, 2025
Nominated, the UCLA Distinguished Teaching Award
UCLA Psychology Department’s Distinguished Teaching Award, 2023
California State University Outstanding Professor Award, 2017
California State University Research, Scholarship, Creative Activity Recognition, 2017
Runner Up, UCLA Alumni - My Last Lecture 2025 Professor, 2025
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RECOMMENDED ORGANIZATIONS
Contact Form
Speaking inquiries only, please.
Please use the subject line to indicate the name of your organization and the date of the event.
Let me know in the message details about your event, location, audience, topics of interest, and/or budget.
Bonnie will reach out to discuss next steps.
Contact Form
Speaking inquiries only, please.
Please use the subject line to indicate the name of your organization and the date of the event.
Let me know in the message details about your event, location, audience, topics of interest, and/or budget.
Bonnie will reach out to discuss next steps.
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