CO-FOUNDER OF THE HAPPINESS STUDIES ACADEMY

An internationally renowned teacher and author in the fields of happiness and leadership.

Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar taught two of the most popular courses in Harvard University's history: Positive Psychology and The Psychology of Leadership.

He co-founded the Happiness Studies Academy and created the Certificate in Happiness Studies, the first-ever Master of Arts in Happiness Studies, and a Happier School program. His books have been translated into over 30 languages and have appeared on best-seller lists around the world.

Tal Ben-Shahar consults and lectures executives in multinational corporations, educational institutions, and the general public. Topics include leadership, education, ethics, happiness, self-esteem, resilience, goal setting, and mindfulness.

FOUNDER + CEO of THRIVE GLOBAL

Arianna Huffington is the founder and CEO of Thrive, former founder of The Huffington Post, and the author of 15 books, including "Thrive" and "The Sleep Revolution." In 2016, she launched Thrive, a leading behavior change tech company with the mission of changing the way we work and live by ending the collective delusion that burnout is the price we must pay for success.

She has been named to Time Magazine's list of the world’s 100 most influential people and the Forbes Most Powerful Women list. Originally from Greece, she moved to England when she was 16 and graduated from Cambridge University with an M.A. in economics. At 21, she became president of the famed debating society, the Cambridge Union. She serves on numerous boards, including Onex and The B Team.

Her last two books, "Thrive: The Third Metric to Redefining Success and Creating a Life of Well-Being," "Wisdom, and Wonder and The Sleep Revolution: Transforming Your Life, One Night At A Time," both became instant international bestsellers. Most recently, she wrote the foreword to Thrive's first book "Your Time to Thrive: End Burnout, Increase Well-being, and Unlock Your Full Potential with the New Science of Microsteps."

ICONIC SPORTS AGENT + THE REAL LIFE ‘JERRY MAGUIRE’ + PHILANTHROPIST

Leigh Steinberg, premier sports agent, entrepreneur, best-selling author, and Chairman of Leigh Steinberg Sports and Entertainment Holdings, is best known for his work building athletes into stand-alone brands. He is often credited as the real-life inspiration for the Oscar-winning film Jerry Maguire. Leigh has represented many of the most successful athletes and coaches in football, basketball, baseball, hockey, boxing, and golf, including the number one overall pick in the NFL draft for an unprecedented eight times in conjunction with 64 total first round picks. With an unrivaled history of record-setting contracts, Leigh has secured over $4 billion for his 300+ pro athlete clients and directed more than $1 billion to various charities around the world.

Over the course of his career, Leigh has been featured on numerous national television programs, including 60 Minutes, Larry King Live, The Today Show, Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous, and many more. He has been profiled in a host of magazines, including Business Week, Sports Illustrated, ESPN the Magazine, People, Forbes, Playboy, GQ, and FHM. He currently resides in Newport Beach, CA.

AWARD WINNING TELEVISION WRITER + PRODUCER + DIRECTOR

Marta Kauffman, creator of the Netflix comedy series “Grace and Frankie” also co-created and executive produced the Emmy Award-winning series “Friends.”

Previously, Kauffman co-created and served as executive producer on the critically acclaimed comedy series “Dream On” for which she received an Emmy Award nomination and a CableAce Award. Kauffman also co-created the comedy series “The Powers That Be” for Norman Lear, and “Veronica’s Closet”, as well as serving as executive producer on “Jesse” and the one-hour drama “Related”.

A Philadelphia native, Kauffman began her writing career at Brandeis University, which is where she met her then writing partner of over 25 years, David Crane. They began their working relationship in the theatre in New York where they teamed with composer Michael Skloff to write several musicals, including the stage version of the movie “Arthur”. At Brandeis, they also co-wrote the book and lyrics for the widely acclaimed musical “Personals”, which played off-Broadway. “Personals” received an Outer Critics Circle Award and a Drama Desk Award nomination.

Marta was named one of the 25 Most Influential Mothers by Working Mother magazine.

SINGER + SONGWRITER + ACTIVIST

Alanis Morissette is one of the most influential singer-songwriter-musicians/artists in contemporary music. Her deeply expressive music and performances have earned vast critical praise, 14 Canadian Juno Awards, 7 Grammy® Awards (with an additional 14 nominations), two Golden Globe nominations, a BRIT Award and sales of over 75 million albums worldwide. Her debut album JAGGED LITTLE PILL, was followed by nine more eclectic and critically acclaimed albums, all of which continue to influence and inspire fans and fellow artists alike. Her artistic impact can also be seen via “Jagged Little Pill, the Musical,” which made its Broadway debut in December 2019, was nominated for 15 Tony Awards, with 2 wins, and continues to tour globally. Alanis was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame and most recently, The Canadian Songwriter Hall of Fame. Alanis has acted on the big and small screen both comedically and dramatically with roles in “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” “Dogma,” “Sex and the City,” “Weeds,” “Up All Night”, among many others. She is currently starring in Fox’s sitcom, “The Great North”.

Alanis’ influence can be felt not only in music; she is viewed as a bridge between the world of academia and culture at large. Her process of integrating a myriad of profound teachings - expanding upon them, rendering them pithy and clear - has evolved conversations surrounding her most resonant approaches for healing and wholeness and has allowed for a whole new form of expression both within and outside of the realm of music.

AUTHOR + MEDIA EXECUTIVE + HUMANITARIAN

In 2022, award winning producer, author and media executive Michelle D. Hord released her debut memoir "The Other Side of Yet" on Atria Books.

Michelle’s story of resilience is the subject of the intensely personal testimony, which she shares in hopes that others can also find courage and strength on the other side of their own personal "yets." She has been featured in O Magazine, on The Tamron Hall Show, by Good Morning America's Robin Roberts -- and has shared her journey with audiences across the country.

Michelle is the founder of "Gabrielle's Wings," a non profit she created to honor her daughter Gabrielle Eileen, who was murdered by her father when she was just seven. Determined to ensure her daughter's legacy will be focused on helping children and not on how she died, Gabrelle's Wings is dedicated to giving children of color in vulnerable communities the tools they need to soar above their circumstances, and embodies every mother’s dreams for her child to grow and thrive without limitations.

She has creative and executive experience at NBCUniversal, Good Morning America, and The Oprah Winfrey Show.

JOURNALIST + AUTHOR + ANCHOR of CNN TONIGHT

Alisyn Camerota is a journalist, author and anchor of CNN Tonight, weekdays from 10pm -12am ET in New York, New York. In her three decades in journalism, Camerota has covered stories nationally and internationally, earning two Emmy Awards for her breaking news coverage of the death of George Floyd and arrest of Roger Stone, as well as the prestigious Edward R. Murrow Award for her breaking news coverage of Hurricane Maria’s impact on Puerto Rico.

Camerota has also anchored a number of primetime specials, including “Tipping Point: Sexual Harassment in America”, “The Hunting Ground: Sexual Assault on Campus”, “TOXIC: Britney Spears’ Battle for Freedom”, and “The Baby Business”. She is on the national advisory council of The News Literacy Project, which works to teach kids how to spot misinformation and fake news. She’s also an Advisory Member of Press Forward, working to combat sexual harassment in newsrooms.

Alisyn attended American University on a Presidential scholarship, graduating cum laude in Broadcast Journalism. Alisyn’s debut novel, Amanda Wakes Up, was selected by National Public Radio as one of the best books of the year, and by Oprah Magazine as “a must read.” She is currently working on a memoir.

SINGER + SONGWRITER + ACTRESS + SPEAKER

Rhonda Ross is an Emmy-Nominated Actress, Grammy-Nominated Songwriter and Motivational Singer who helps people FEEL BETTER through the POWER of THOUGHT.

As the only child between Diana Ross and Motown founder, Berry Gordy, Rhonda is quick to acknowledge the luck she was born into having two of the world’s most influential people as her parents, however, partly as a result of comparing herself to them and their accomplishments, Rhonda painfully struggled with insecurity, self-esteem, depression, and feelings of being unfulfilled.

Finally, she embraced The Power of Thought and started FEELING BETTER. It all started with a Crucial First Step...

Now, through her invigorating music, impactful workshops and inspiring keynote presentations, Rhonda empowers others with tools and strategies to activate, implement and strengthen their resiliency through the Power of Thought so they can feel better, no matter what life throws at them.

You don't have to be born into a family of global icons to feel like you don't quite measure up. In numerous ways, many of us are contending with pressures of external expectations in this tumultuous world, and many of us struggle with never feeling good enough.

If you are interested in joining Rhonda and taking that Crucial First Step to FEEL BETTER through the POWER of THOUGHT, connect with her at www.rhondaross.net

BEST SELLING AUTHOR + SURVIVOR + PSYCHOLOGIST

A native of Hungary, Edith Eva Eger was just a teenager in 1944 when she experienced one of the worst evils the human race has ever known. As a Jew living in Nazi-occupied Eastern Europe, she and her family were sent to Auschwitz, the heinous death camp. Having barely survived, she moved to the United States in 1949. In 1969 she received her degree in Psychology from the University of Texas, El Paso.

Dr. Eger is a prolific author and a member of several professional associations. She has a clinical practice in La Jolla, California and holds a faculty appointment at the University of California, San Diego. She has appeared on numerous television programs including CNN and the Oprah Winfrey Show. She is a highly sought after speaker on Resiliency. Dr. Edith Eva Eger published her NY Times best-selling memoir, The Choice, at the age of 90 in 2017. In 2020 she published her Internationally best-selling guidebook, The Gift.

She is a great-grand-parent to seven, and the embodiment of lighthearted love and positive energy.

SINGER + HUMANITARIAN

Singer, actor, and philanthropist, Alex Harris is no stranger to the entertainment scene. He started his entertainment career at the age of 7, traveling throughout the southeast region with his siblings.

Alex has a growing following world-wide that are captivated by his electrifying and soulful performances. Harris has performed at two of the Presidential Inaugural Galas, for the Premier of Bermuda Gala, Prime Minister of Ireland Gala and many other prestigious galas, schools, colleges, corporate events, and festivals world-wide.

Alex has not only headlined his own shows, but has graced stages with entertainers and actors, such as Al Green, Aretha Franklin, Bobby Rush, Eric Benet, John Legend, Kirk Franklin, Lamman Rucker, Leon and many others.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR of NAADAC, the ASSOCIATION FOR ADDICTION PROFESSIONALS

Cynthia Moreno Tuohy is the Executive Director of NAADAC, the Association for Addiction Professionals. Moreno Tuohy previously served as the Executive Director of the Danya Institute and the Central East Addiction Technology Transfer Center. Prior to this, she was the Program Director for Volunteers of America Western Washington where she served homeless individuals and persons living with the co-occurrence of poverty, substance use, and mental health disorders. In addition, for over 20 years she has been the administrator of multi-county and publicly-funded alcohol, drug prevention, and intervention treatment centers specializing in services from prenatal care to serving the elderly.

She has been a trainer in domestic violence, anger management, and conflict resolution for over 35 years, as well as an international, national, and state trainer on a variety of topics. She authored, Rein In Your Brain: From Impulsivity to Thoughtful Living in Recovery, and a NIDA SBIR on Conflict Resolution in Recovery and Relapse Prevention for counselors to use in the treatment of trauma, substance use disorders, and recovery. Moreno Tuohy was awarded the Friend of NASADAD Award by the National Association of State Alcohol and Drug Abuse Directors in September of 2021 for her national work with the association.

PROFESSOR OF ETHICS AT JOHN HOPKINS

Dr. Cynda Hylton Rushton, an international leader in bioethics and nursing, is the Anne and George L. Bunting Professor of Clinical Ethics at the Johns Hopkins Berman Institute of Bioethics and the School of Nursing, and co-chairs the Johns Hopkins Hospital’s Ethics Committee and Consultation Service.

She co-led the first National Nursing Ethics Summit that produced a Blueprint for 21st Century Nursing Ethics. She was a member of the National Academies of Medicine, Science and Engineering Committee that produced the report: Taking Action Against Clinician Burnout: A Systems Approach to Professional Well-being. She is a member of the American Nurses Association Center for Ethics & Human Rights Ethics Advisory Board and American Nurses Foundation Well-Being Initiative Advisory Board.

Dr. Rushton is the chief synergy strategist for Maryland’s R3 Resilient Nurses Initiative, a statewide initiative to build resilience and ethical practice in nursing students and novice nurses. She is the editor and author of Moral Resilience: Transforming Moral Suffering in Healthcare.

SINGER + SONGWRITER

Mariah has been singing since the age of 5. The Church Choir, talent shows, school plays, and Mom’s rigid vocal coaching were the bedrock of Mariah’s initial training. Born Mariah Dawn’e Hester in Shreveport, LA,

She is an “old soul” and animal lover with a flare for the arts that include public speaking, painting, pottery, and dance. Strong in her faith in G-d, this NICU Nurse and proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated continued to sing and perform while pursuing her degree and serving in multiple roles. She is also a prolific songwriter, as demonstrated in her initial release– “Material Girl.” (produced by Edwin Tony Nicholas.

Mariah is signed to Voracity Music Group based out of Cleveland Ohio. Material Girl was written by Mariah Hester and produced by Edwin Tony Nichols. ‘Material Girl’ was written from the viewpoint of a woman at a crossroads. “Should she remain in a relationship that caters to the material and superficial while neglecting what is truly important? In the process of finding herself again, she outlines what is missing: Loyalty. Time. Love. Patience. Teamwork. These are the things that money can not buy.” ‘Material Girl’ was #27 on the R&B charts.

RENOWNED MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKER + AUTHOR + ENTREPRENEUR

As one of the world’s most renowned motivational speakers, Les Brown is a dynamic personality and highly-sought-after resource in business and professional circles for Fortune 500 CEOs, small business owners, non-profit and community leaders from all sectors of society looking to expand opportunity. For three decades he has not only studied the science of achievement, he’s mastered it by interviewing hundreds of successful business leaders and collaborating with them in the boardroom translating theory into bottom-line results for his clients.

As a premier Keynote Speaker and leading authority on achievement for audiences as large as 80,000—Les Brown energizes people to meet the challenges of the world around them.

Les Brown never tires of using his energies to transform the world, well-beyond the podium and public appearances, meshing traditional and social media to empower his audiences. Over 20 years ago, he won a Chicago-area Emmy® for his unsurpassed fundraising pledge drive for the Public Broadcasting System. Followed by several bestselling books and hosting popular national talk shows on television and radio.

Les Brown’s straight-from-the-heart, passion and high-energy, motivates audiences to step beyond their limitations and into their greatness in many ways. Over the past decade, Les has expanded his role from keynote speaker to Master Trainer, creating the kind of workshop learning experience that got him committed to personal-and-professional development many years earlier.

SINGER + SONGWRITER + PRODUCER + ADVOCATE

MILCK is a singer, songwriter, producer, and advocate who is known for co writing and performing “Quiet," the viral sensation that became known as the unofficial anthem of the Women’s March, Billboard’s No.1 Protest Song, and a featured selection on NPR’s American Anthem Series. The City of Los Angeles featured MILCK as a leader in positive change and influence for the AAPI Community in the Together WeSpeak Exhibit. In 2020, her single with Atlantic Records, “If I Ruled the World,” was named song of the week by Time Magazine. Her 2021 song “I Belong” was featured in the CBS special “See Us”, a nationwide special to bring more tolerance and safety for the AAPI community. Other songs of MILCK's are placed on TV shows, major network trailers, and national commercial campaigns.

MILCK also finds tremendous joy in writing and producing emotional and anthemic songs for other artists, like John Legend and Phillipa Soo (Hamilton). The Planned Parenthood Champion of Choice Award Recipient has funneled her advocacy work into the Somebody’s Beloved Fund, which she established with her team in 2020 to use her songs to generate resources for ten grassroots beneficiaries that build power around racial justice and healing. MILCK has pledged for every song on her upcoming 2022 album to benefit The Somebody’s Beloved Fund.

DIRECTOR EDCAMP UKRAINE + INSPIRER

Oleksandr Elkin is the Head of Board and inspirer of EdCamp Ukraine, a strong 40,000 teachers’ professional development community. He held university academic and administrative positions training future computer scientists.

He served as an adviser to three Ministers of Education and Science of Ukraine and a member of the two cohorts of Public Council of the Ministry.

In 2021, Dr. Elkin became a member of Presidential Advisory Council on Promoting the Development of the General Secondary Education System and in 2022 – an expert of secondary education working group for National Council for the Recovery of Ukraine from the War. Throughout the war, Oleksandr has been a tremendous support bringing trauma resolutions techniques to educators and their families. Currently he is working on a book related to ‘Finding the strength to hold on.”

PSYCHOLOGIST - TRAUMA & RESILIENCE

Dr. Baum is a psychologist and consultant in the field of trauma and resilience building worldwide. In the last two decades saw has dedicated herself to creating and implementing resilience-building programs for those exposed to trauma, be it terrorism, war or natural disaster.

DR. Baum firmly believes that mental health is for everybody, and she is passionate about bringing resilience building skills to wherever they are needed.

Her unique BRI-Building Resilience Intervention model focuses on strengths and resources has been adopted by schools for teacher training and parent workshops, as well as with police, firefighters, paramedics rabbis, and nurses to help them deal with exposure to trauma. This program has been introduced throughout Israel, as well as Mexico, Spain, Haiti and the USA in the wake of trauma and disaster.

PSYCHOLOGIST + FOUNDER OF INSIGHT MEDITATION COMMUNITY OF WASHINGTON, DC

Dr. Tara Brach is one of the most sought-after speakers, Tara’s teaching is a mainstay in the field of mindfulness and meditation.

She is a best selling author and her workshops fill quickly around the country. Tara’s teachings blend Western psychology and Eastern spiritual practices, mindful attention to our inner life, and a full, compassionate engagement with our world. The result is a distinctive voice in Western Buddhism, one that offers a wise and caring approach to freeing ourselves and society from suffering.

CEO + RESEARCHER + RESILIENCY EXPERT

Jurie is a global resilience expert and founder of Driven, a research and technology organization focused on building human resilience.

Jurie has developed various innovative and accredited resilience programs, including Resilience First Aid, the AI-powered Driven Resilience program, and High Adversity Resilience Training (HART). These programs are used by various universities, defence, government, organizations, and therapists worldwide.

Jurie has published books such as Executive Resilience, reports such as the National Resilience Index, and multiple research papers on the neuroscience of resilience, resilience assessment, and new analytics frameworks to better understand the deeper functioning and value of resilience.

CEO LENS+SOUL + PRODUCER

From West Africa to Beverly Hills, Jordan lives to create content that inspires. Behind the lens, Jordan is passionate about finding the beauty and soul of your brand. Connecting with his clients, and finding our what makes then tick is why he loves this work.

Together with his life-changing grandmother, Edith Eger, their new 10-part series gives participants proven skills and techniques to find their “Gift” within, as they share their powerful inter-generational connection.

Jordan is dedicated to enlarging the strategic tenets of Edith’s unique counseling technique that focuses on choice, and determination of creating the life that you desire.

PSYCHOTHERAPIST + SPEAKER + AUTHOR

Britt Frank, LSCSW, SEP is a licensed psychotherapist, speaker, and author of The Science of Stuck (Penguin Random House, 2022).

She is level 3 trained in the Internal Family Systems model as well a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner.

Britt received her undergraduate degree from Duke University and her master’s degree from the University of Kansas, where she later became an award-winning adjunct instructor.

INTERNATIONAL RECORDING ARTIST + VIOLINIST

Dominique Hammons is a young, energetic, Contemporary/Jazz Violinist who is a Houston native and started playing classical violin at the age of 8. He attended the High School for the Performing and Visual Arts in Houston where he was a member of his school orchestra program for four years. After high school,

His has been recognized with many awards and among them, the Houston Symphony’s “Young Artist Competition”, where he won the opportunity to play a solo on stage with the Houston Symphony. He also competed and won medals and recognitions while participating in NAACP “Actso” competitions.

He was selected to play the National Anthem during the pre-game show at the Houston Rockets game in November of 2018)

AMERICAN R & B ARTIST

Omar Wilson is no stranger to the music scene and has been performing in NYC and CT clubs for over a decade. He’s opened for artists like Boys II Men and The Neville Brothers. Growing up in Norwalk CT Omar’s influences included Sam Cooke, Donny Hathaway, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, James Brown, Lauren Hill, Mary J Blige and old-time soul acts like the Delfonics. His music speaks to his own personal experiences growing up in an urban environment bridging the gap between Hip Hop and Soul.

Omar is a 3-time Apollo winner and was named Best R&B Male of the Year for 2 consecutive years at the Underground Music Awards held at BB Kings in NYC.

Through his journey and struggles Omar has finally come to understand his role as one of the industry’s top new Soul singers. He’s recorded with Multi-Platinum selling artist Angie Stone and DMX featuring them on songs he wrote. The track he recorded with Miss. Stone is ‘Get to Know You Better.’ Angie Stone was quoted saying “Working with Omar Wilson came naturally and he is one to watch!” DMX is one of the only rappers to have 5 consecutive albums go number 1 on the Billboards and rarely recorded with singers. Omar and DMX released a single called ‘Faith’ and they connected on the track instantaneously which is audibly tangible.

AUTHOR + ACTOR + PRODUCER + WRITER

Monica Parker has had a multi faceted and successful career in the entertainment industry born of invention, determination and tenacity.

She’s a writer/producer for film and television, an actor on stage and screen and through it all she has made it her mission to advocate for body acceptance at any size.

She’s a force for positive change who always delivers with warmth, wisdom and a great dollop of humor and insight from her years spent fighting the pervasive perception that being good enough means being thin.

She has an uncanny ability to inspire us all to become more and more of who we are meant to be just as we are. She believes not everyone is mean to be sylph-like and she’s only too happy to be his or her “Pie” Piper.

FOUNDER OF INTERNAL FAMILY SYSTEMS + AUTHOR

Richard began his career as a systemic family therapist and an academic. Grounded in systems thinking, Dr. Schwartz developed Internal Family Systems (IFS) in response to clients’ descriptions of various parts within themselves.

He focused on the relationships among these parts and noticed that there were systemic patterns to the way they were organized across clients. He also found that when the clients’ parts felt safe and were allowed to relax, the clients would experience spontaneously the qualities of confidence, openness, and compassion that Dr. Schwartz came to call the Self. He found that when in that state of Self, clients would know how to heal their parts.

A featured speaker for national professional organizations, Dr. Schwartz has published many books and over fifty articles about IFS.

ACTOR + SINGER + SONGWRITER + INVENTOR

Laura Robinson is a true “multi-passionate creative.” This talented singer-songwriter, actress, producer and inventor co-created the hilarious, classic board game, “Balderdash” in her twenties, bringing joy and laughter to people all over the world!

She was nominated for an Emmy in 2019 for the television game show she co-created and exec-produced with Courteney Cox, “Celebrity Name Game,” starring Craig Ferguson.

Laura has enjoyed a successful career as an actress in Toronto and Los Angeles with feature films, series regulars and starring roles on shows like “Cheers” and “Frasier” to her credit. She is an in-demand motivational speaker and published author; she co-authored Chicken Soup for the Soul: Count Your Blessings and Chicken Soup for the Soul: Hooked on Hockey. She is a gifted singer-songwriter and guitarist, with a healing voice. Laura’s upcoming album, “What Else But Love” is for all to enjoy.

AUTHOR + CLINICIAN + TRAUMA EXPERT

Elaine Miller-Karas is an author, advocate, social worker, trauma therapist, radio show host, co-founder of an international organization, The Trauma Resource Institute and key developer of the Community and Trauma Resiliency Models.

Elaine’s trauma resolution model is used in over 90 countries around the world and she has worked with the United Nations, the Dalai Lama, and many leaders around the world. In January of 2021, she has launched a radio show, Resiliency Within, Building Resiliency during Unprecedented Times on Voice America’s Health and Wellness Channel.

She is the author of Building Resiliency to Trauma, the Trauma and Community Resiliency Models® (2015).

She is committed to bringing accessible and affordable interventions based on neuroscience and the biology of the human nervous system to our world’s community.

PHYSICIAN + AUTHOR + RESILIENCE EXPERT

Dr. Sood is the creator of the Resilient Option program. He is one of the world's leading experts on resilience and wellbeing, and executive director of the Global Center for Resiliency and Wellbeing. He was also professor of medicine, and Chair for student life and wellness at Mayo Clinic.

Dr. Sood has authored or co-authored over 70 peer-reviewed papers and is the author of several books including, The Mayo Clinic Guide to Stress-Free Living, The Mayo Clinic Handbook for Happiness, Mindfulness Redesigned, SMART with Dr. Sood, The Resilience Journal, and Build Your Immune Resilience.

He has presented at some of the highest impact forums like, TEDx, Lake Nona, Forbes Under 30 Forum, Conference Board, Beckers, YPO, NPR, NAMI, NBGH, NASA, keynotes for Fortune 500 companies, universities, foundations, and others.

He was selected as one among top 20 intelligent optimist in the world (Ode Magazine). Dr. Sood was also selected by RWJ Foundation as one of the health care pioneers, and the "Biggest Impact Maker" in healthcare in Rochester, MN (the home of Mayo Clinic).

FORMER SECRETARY OF TRANSPORTATION + CONGRESSMAN

Ray LaHood gained national prominence during his 14 years in Congress. The nationally respected publication Congressional Quarterly named him as one of 11 “freshmen to watch” during his first term, 1995-1996.

As a testament to his parliamentary knowledge and even-handedness in conducting House proceedings, Ray was selected to chair the historic debate over the impeachment of President Bill Clinton in December 1998. LaHood also became known for his efforts to establish a higher level of civility, decorum, and bipartisanship in the House as a cosponsor of four “civility retreats.”

His committee assignments included the House Committee on Agriculture, the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, and the House Appropriations Committee.

SELF-CARE EXPERT + NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING AUTHOR

Cheryl Richardson is the New York Times bestselling author of several books including, Take Time for Your Life, Life Makeovers, Stand Up for Your Life, The Unmistakable Touch of Grace, The Art of Extreme Self Care, You Can Create an Exceptional Life with Louise Hay, and Waking Up in Winter: In Search of What Really Matters at Midlife. Her latest releases are the audiobooks Self Care for the Wisdom Years and How to Survive the Loss of a Pet.

Cheryl was the first president of the International Coach Federation. Her work has been covered widely in the media including Good Morning America, The Today Show, CBS This Morning, New York Times, USA Today, Good Housekeeping, and O Magazine. She was the team leader for the Lifestyle Makeover Series on the Oprah Winfrey Show and she accompanied Ms. Winfrey on the “Live Your Best Life” nationwide tour.

Cheryl also served as the co-executive producer and host of “The Life Makeover Project with Cheryl Richardson” on the Oxygen Network and as the co-executive producer and host of two Public Television Specials – “Stand Up for Your Life” and “Create an Abundant Life.”

Cheryl hosts an active online community. You can find her on Facebook @Cheryl Richardson and on Twitter and Instagram @coachoncall.

COUPLE’S THERAPIST + NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING AUTHOR + SPEAKER

Harville Hendrix PhD is an internationally-respected couple's therapist, educator, speaker, and New York Times bestselling author. Together, with his wife Helen Hunt PhD, they have written over 10 books with more than 4 million copies sold, including the timeless classic, Getting the Love You Want: A Guide for Couples. In addition, Harville has appeared on the Oprah Winfrey television program 17 times!

Harville and Helen co-created Imago Relationship Therapy to promote the transformation of couples and families by a creating relational culture that support universal equality. In addition, they've developed resources that help couples, families, and educators strengthen their relationship knowledge and skills. They are the co-founders of Imago Relationships International, a non-profit organization that has trained over 2,000 therapists and educators in 51 countries around the world.

COUPLE’S THERAPIST + NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING AUTHOR + SPEAKER

Helen Hunt PhD is an internationally-respected couple's therapist, educator, speaker, and New York Times bestselling author. Together, with her husband Harville Hendrix PhD, they have written over 10 books with more than 4 million copies sold, including the timeless classic, Getting the Love You Want: A Guide for Couples.

Helen and Harville co-created Imago Relationship Therapy to promote the transformation of couples and families by a creating relational culture that support universal equality. In addition, they've developed resources that help couples, families, and educators strengthen their relationship knowledge and skills. They are the co-founders of Imago Relationships International, a non-profit organization that has trained over 2,000 therapists and educators in 51 countries around the world.

CLINICIAN + SPEAKER + YOGA TRAINER

Joe Gandarillas is a Certified High-Performance Coach helping clients achieve the transformation they seek.

He is also a certified yoga instructor who combines the practice of yoga with the art of storytelling to illuminate the body mind, and heart.

Joe believes that in order to effectively teach, one must also always be a student: He continues to study yoga, meditation and nutrition, and has amassed countless hours of training and study with many gifted teachers.

Joe is also the Chief Operating Officer of Michael Aiduss Interior Design in Montclair, NJ.

CEO and CO-FOUNDER of SUKHI

Rahul Kay is the CEO and Co-Founder of Sukhi. He has a background in organizational culture, clinical psychology, and cultural sensitivity. He's also a former McKinsey consultant, UN global health official, and facilitated group therapy. He's been featured by Harvard, The World Bank, and Amazon - and has worked with +20k employees across over 50 organizations. Rahul studied clinical psychology at Tufts Medical, abnormal psychology at Cornell, and received an MBA from MIT Sloan.

RESEARCHER + AUTHOR + COMPASSION EXPERT

Kristin Neff is currently an Associate Professor of Educational Psychology at the University of Texas at Austin.

She is a pioneer in the field of self-compassion research, conducting the first empirical studies on self-compassion nearly twenty years ago. She has been recognized as one of the most influential researchers in psychology worldwide.

She is author of the bestselling book Self-Compassion. Along with her colleague Chris Germer, she developed the Mindful Self-Compassion program, taught internationally, and co-wrote The Mindful Self-Compassion Workbook.

Her newest book is Fierce Self-Compassion: How Women Can Harness Kindness to Speak Up, Claim Their Power, and Thrive.

Kristin has been named as one of the world’s most influential researchers by Clairviate, 2021.

FIRST WATCH + RESILIENT FIRST

A former paramedic, Mike has worked with emergency services and healthcare organizations in 49 of the 50 states, most of the Canadian Provinces, Israel, Palestine, Australia, and throughout Europe.

Mike serves as Improvement Guide for FirstWatch and leads ResilientFirst, the neuroscience-based resilience training program.

Mike also teaches improvement science as an Assistant Professor in the University of California San Francisco’s MS in Healthcare Administration and Interprofessional Leadership and as an Adjunct Professor in UMBC’s MA in Emergency Health Services Management.

FOUNDER OF THE RESILIENT RETREAT + RESEARCHER

Sidney Turner is a psychologist and a researcher. She has dedicated the last decade to advocating for survivors of trauma and studying evidence-based strategies to prevent and intervene in situations involving trauma.

In addition to her research, Dr. Turner has been in board leadership positions in non-profits for many years, including the largest crisis center in New Hampshire (HAVEN), The Rotary Club of Longboat Key, and the Florida Partnership to End Domestic Violence.

She currently volunteers as a victim advocate at SPARCC(Sarasota crisis center), victim advocate at Centerstone (Manatee crisis center), Rotary Club of Longboat Key, SRQ Strong, and on the Board of Florida Partnership to End Domestic Violence.

Dr. Turner strongly believes that people are not defined by their trauma and programs should focus on the many strengths that can come from overcoming adversity, not just the challenges.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF STANDWITHUS

Michael Dickson is Executive Director of StandWithUs in Israel, an international educational non-profit dedicated to supporting Israel and fighting antisemitism around the world.

Michael regularly addresses audiences and broadcasts on issues pertaining to Israel and public diplomacy. He is an accomplished writer, with many published articles and TV appearances.

Michael is a Senior Fellow at the Center for International Communication of Bar Ilan University, is an Honorary member of Alpha Epsilon Pi, and in 2015 was appointed to the Spectrum Forum of leading Executive Directors in Israel under the age of 40.

In 2016, he was listed as the 14th most influential Jew on Twitter and also named in Channel 13 TV's “30 Israelis Making a Difference” at a special event at the President’s Residence. Michael was listed in the Top 30 of "The Aliyah 100 List" of British immigrants to Israel as one of the "flag bearers who shape the State of Israel and made a significant contribution".

In 2019, he was awarded the Bonei Zion (“Builder of Zion”) Prize, recognizing the achievements of outstanding Anglo immigrants and their contribution to the State of Israel, at a ceremony in the Tower of David, Jerusalem. In 2020, he was listed on the Global Jewish 100 - “a celebration of people across the world who are moving Jewish culture forward, selected according to their accomplishments, influence, and impact”.

SINGER + SONGWRITER + CLINICIAN

Matthew Alexander has been playing guitar since he was eight years old and writing songs since he was fifteen.

His award winning songwriting style has been influenced by such greats as Gordon Lightfoot, Bob Dylan and Paul Simon. His songs have been published by Warner Brothers Music, Beechwood-Capital and Four Star Music, among others.

Matthew was part of the dynamic folk music scene in Cambridge, Massachusetts in the late ‘60s and was a regular performer at Boston coffeehouses.

As a solo artist and as founding member of the folk-trio Moonshine, Matthew opened in the early seventies for Bruce Springsteen, Bonnie Raitt and Billy Joel. Since then he has performed at venues around the country including the New Music Showcase in Atlanta, Georgia; the Ark in Ann Arbor, Michigan; the Troubador and the Songwriters Showcase in Los Angeles, California; and the Double Door, Visulite Theater, Tosco Music Party and the Latta Plantation Folk Festival in Charlotte, North Carolina.

He has won awards for his music from the Northeastern Music Festival and Songwriters Guild of Nashville, Tennessee.

SPEAKER + COACH + ENTREPRENEUR

A successful serial entrepreneur, Jesse’s mission is to continually raise the bar and build his LIFE RESUME. He has completed a 100 mile running race, sold Marquis Jet to Warren Buffett in 2010, and partnered with Zico Coconut Water which sold to Coca-Cola in 2013.

Jesse’s career is unlike anyone else. He started as a rapper on MTV in 1991, became the Manager of the greatest hip hop band ever, Run-DMC, and wrote the anthem for the NY Knicks.

He teaches his principles and best practices through his online course and coaching program—where thousands have learned from his lifestyle approach and applied it to their own.

At the end of the day, his proudest accomplishment is his family—with 3 sons and a daughter, he and his wife, Sara Blakely (founder of SPANX), definitely have their hands full!

JOURNALIST + 4-TIME EMMY WINNER + NBC & MSNBC NEWS (Retired)

Kevin Tibbles is an award-winning NBC correspondent (retired). He appeared on all NBC News and MSNBC platforms, including NBC Nightly News with Lester Holt, TODAY and NBC News. Tibbles’ foreign and domestic news experience includes reporting from war zones in Iraq, Bosnia, Afghanistan, Rwanda, Kosovo and beyond.

He was a Chicago based correspondent for all NBC News entities: Nightly News with Lester Holt, Today, Meet the Press and MSNBC. Extensive foreign and domestic news coverage including Hurricane Katrina, 911, and the election of President Barack Obama.

He covered multiple Olympic games (Torino, Beijing, Vancouver, London and Sochi). and was a member of NBC News Climate Coverage team from Alaska, Norway and the High Arctic. Tibbles developed and presented the series ‘Meeting America’ for Meet the Press on Sundays.

Tibbles has won four Emmy awards, a Peabody award, the National Headliner Award, the Overseas Press Club Award, and an award from the National Association of Black Journalists. He was awarded the First Amendment Award, and in 2021 was was the winner of the Wilbur Award (Religion in Broadcasting).

Today, he and Amy Goldberg co-host, created and produce a podcast called BELIEVE IN PEOPLE - where they elevate good and share a positive spark of humanity.

PRODUCER + AUTHOR + CREATIVE ENTREPRENEUR

Amy Goldberg is the Founder + CEO of Push Back; ‘creating things to inspire others.’ Amy is a creative entrepreneur. author, international speaker, holistic well-being trailblazer and advocate. She’s on a mission to help people thrive. Her creativity combined with her sharp business skills has enabled her to share a perspective that others may not have considered. She challenges thinking and focuses on identifying, creating, and connecting the opportunities and collaborations, deliberately and on purpose.

Amy created and produced a 13-part series called I AM NOT OKAY where, with the help of a Psychotherapist, 24 celebrities, authors, mental health professionals shared their personal stories, experiences and expert advise on how to move from surviving to thriving when things were not okay. Today, she and Kevin Tibbles co-host, created and produce a podcast called BELIEVE IN PEOPLE - where they elevate good and share a positive spark of humanity.

Amy has been awarded: Entrepreneur of the year two-time nominee RBC /Women Of Influence / 2020 & 2021. Trailblazer of the year Canfitpro/Women Who Influence / 2019. Speaker of the year nominee / Heighten Your Business H.U.B. inc / 2019. and received the highest commendation from 3 consecutive Commanding Officers of the Department of National Defense.

AUTHOR + PRODUCER

Dr. Shelley Plumb is the founder, CEO and Executive Producer at Plumb Talk Productions, Shelley provides worldwide state-of-the- art video production services for businesses.

She assists individuals in achieving their lifelong ambitions through increased exposure and the power of video marketing.

She is revered in her professional community for her creativity and attention to detail. Shelley is said by many to “put the heart back in video production.

She is a woman on a mission. As a wife, mother, podiatric physician, and executive producer at PlumbTalk Productions, she focuses her gifts on uplifting and inspiring others. Born in Renton, Washington Shelley has always had a life-long love for nature and enjoys hiking, biking and camping with family and friends. Adversity came early for Shelley, when at 7 years old, she lost her mother in a fatal car accident. She survived the tragedy and has been a living legacy of perseverance ever since.

CO-HOST + AUTHOR + JOURNALIST + PSYCHOTHERAPIST + RESILIENCY EXPERT

Bryan Robinson is a licensed psychotherapist and author of two novels and 40 nonfiction books.

He applies his experiences to crafting insightful nonfiction self-help books and psychological thrillers. His multi-award winning southern noir murder mystery, Limestone Gumption, won the New Apple Book Medal for best psychological suspense, the Silver IPPY Award for outstanding mystery of the year, the Bronze Foreword Review INDIEFAB Book Award for best mystery, and the 2015 USA Regional Excellence Book Award for best fiction in the Southeast.

He has written for Psychology Today, First for Women, and Natural Health, and his blogs and columns for writers appear in Southern Writer’s Magazine. His books have been translated into thirteen languages, and he has appeared on every major television network: 20/20, Good Morning America, ABC’s World News Tonight, NBC Nightly News, NBC Universal, The CBS Early Show, CNBC’s The Big Idea.

He hosted the PBS documentary, Overdoing It: How to Slow Down and Take Care of Yourself. Bryan is also the Co-host of our Resiliency Forum since 2020.

CEO & FOUNDER RESILIENCY + HAPPINESS + AUTHOR + CLINICIAN + RESILIENCY EXPERT

Joy Erlichman Miller, Ph.D., is an internationally known licensed psychotherapist, professional trainer and author. Miller is the founder and director of Joy Miller & Associates & the Resiliency Forum in Peoria, Illinois. Dr. Miller is an Illinois state Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor as well as a Certified Master Addictions Counselor.

Additionally Dr. Miller has been a part-time instructor at Bradley University, and was a faculty member and mentor at Walden University’s doctoral psychology program.

Dr. Miller is a leading authority on relationship issues and Holocaust studies.

She has been a longtime professional trainer for Health Communications, Inc. (the Chicken Soup publisher), and her professional expertise, energy, enthusiasm, and humor has made her speaker in high demand throughout the country.