Meet Our Staff

Darby Dickton, D.O. President & Founder, Physician

As a scientist and researcher, Dr. Darby Dickton has published manuscripts and presented posters ranging from breast milk storage practices to post-partum musculoskeletal management strategies. She is an open proponent of critical evaluation when integrating cutting-edge research into established clinical practices and is a staunch supporter of scientists who are willing to apply their work to their own lives, including, but not limited to, Dr. Jekyll and Dr. Bruce Banner. As an ethicist and speaker, Dr. Darby has led international workshops and discussions designed to help providers evaluate and develop their own approach to patient communication. Often described as inspirational, Darby has a unique style of speaking that will keep an audience engaged and reflecting on their own approaches to both personal and professional matters.

Dr. Jimi Francis, Founder Lactation Consultant

Dr. Jimi Francis, MS, PhD, IBCLC, RLC, RDN, LD completed a Master of Science degree at the University of Nevada in Reno, Nevada and a Doctoral degree in Nutrition at the University of California at Davis. She completed her Dietetics Internship at Eglin Air Force with the 96^th Medical Group through Iowa State University. As well as being a Registered Dietitian licensed in Texas, Dr. Jimi is an Internationally Board-Certified Lactation Consultant, a Master IBCLC, trained in Oral Habilitation and Holistic Lactation.

Gigi Simmons, Founder Director, Administration

Gigi Simmons is a seasoned professional with a rich background in corporate human resources, small business start-ups, and management consulting. With extensive experience in providing strategic business solutions, she has a proven track record of driving organizational success and enhancing operational efficiency. Her entrepreneurial spirit shines through her work with non-profit organizations, where she has successfully bootstrapped initiatives and managed day-to-day administrative operations. A passionate advocate for family health, Gigi is committed to empowering families through breastfeeding support. She breastfed both of her children and understands the challenges new families face.

Nathan Mittlelstadt, M.A., LPC-A, LCDC Senior Research Assistant

Nathan Mittelstadt provides a warm, hands-on approach to his role as a Senior Research Assistant in the Maternal Infant Lactation Knowledge (MILK) Lab. With a passion for supporting maternal and infant health, Nathan plays a key role in research projects that explore the neuropsychological development of mothers and babies, offering valuable insights that contribute to better healthcare practices. His experience spans from supervising study designs to initiating pilot studies and preparing research findings for publication. Outside the lab, Nathan’s background in clinical counseling and military service has honed his skills in working with diverse communities, a quality that deeply aligns with the Foundation for Maternal and Infant Lactation Knowledge’s mission to empower and support families. As an avid rugby player and enchanted with tabletop games, Nathan brings both focus and creativity to the work he loves.

Tayah Cantrell, Certified Breastfeeding Specialist

Tayah Cantrell grew up in Smiths Station, Alabama, and served for eight years as an intelligence analyst in the U.S. Air Force. While on active duty, she discovered her passion for breastfeeding through her personal experience, which inspired her to become a Certified Breastfeeding Specialist. After separating from the military in 2024, Tayah began working under Dr. Francis to pursue her goal of becoming an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) while completing her Bachelor’s Degree in Health Sciences.