Martha Beck is an American author, life coach, and speaker known for her work in personal development and self-help. She has written several best-selling books, including Finding Your Own North Star and The Joy Diet, which focus on helping individuals discover their true purpose and improve their lives. Beck holds a Ph.D. in sociology from Harvard University and has been a columnist for O, The Oprah Magazine. In addition to her writing, Beck offers coaching programs and workshops that emphasize mindfulness and self-discovery. She is recognized for her unique approach, blending psychology with practical advice to empower people to create meaningful changes in their lives.