Lesley Chilcott

Finding the Story Within the Data

In a world overwhelmed by information and often clouded by the politicization of language, even the most accurate data can fail to make an impact. The key to bridging this gap lies in uncovering and conveying the narrative behind the facts. Award-winning filmmaker Lesley Chilcott will reveal her top strategies for transforming data into compelling stories. We’ll learn how to craft and present our own narratives in a way that resonates deeply, captures attention, and drives meaningful conversations. Discover how to effectively communicate complex issues and present ourselves in a way that truly opens minds and inspires action.

Lesley Chilcott is a highly accomplished filmmaker known for her impactful documentaries that shed light on pressing social and environmental issues. With a keen eye for storytelling and a passion for effecting change, Chilcott has produced or directed acclaimed films such as "An Inconvenient Truth," which won two Academy Awards,  "Waiting for 'Superman'," a powerful exploration of the American education system, and “Watson” her film about activist Captain Paul Watson's lifelong work saving whales and our imperiled oceans. Her work often blends captivating narratives with in-depth research, aiming to inspire audiences to engage with complex global challenges. Chilcott continues to be a driving force in the documentary world, using her platform to provoke thought, spark conversations, and ignite action.

Website: lesleychilcott.com
Twitter: @LesleyChilcott

Siri Lindley

Winning Big and Living Fearlessly

We're excited to welcome Siri Lindley, a great friend of ours, to the Foundations of Wellbeing Experience. Siri will share her transformative journey and powerful strategies for turning fear into courage. Her insights will inspire all of us to face our own challenges with resilience and live a life of purpose and harmony.

Siri's story, from not knowing how to swim to becoming a Hall of Fame triathlete, exemplifies the power of determination. As a coach, she has guided athletes to 11 world championships and 2 Olympic medals, earning her the title of the #1 female triathlon coach in the world.

Having overcome Acute Myeloid Leukemia with only a 5% chance of survival, Siri's strength and perseverance are extraordinary. Her experiences are also captured in her best-selling book, Finding A Way, and she is recognized as a Top 10 global speaker.

Siri will use her ChampionMind strategies to empower all of us to confront our fears and unlock our fullest potential. We're thrilled Siri is here to share her remarkable journey and insights with us.

Website: siri.siriandbek.com
Instagram: @sirilindley

Mary Beth Albright

Savoring Balance: How Food, Pleasure, and Emotional Well-Being Intersect

Ever wondered how your favorite comfort foods impact your mood and overall well-being? Join us for a journey into the intersection of food and feelings, where we unravel the science behind the gut-brain connection and how our senses shape our emotional landscape. Mary Beth Albright, renowned journalist and author, will share her insights on balancing short-term indulgence with long-term health while sidestepping the pitfalls of diet culture’s perfectionism.

Discover how the latest research sheds light on:

• The intriguing effects of weight-loss injectables on our pleasure responses

• The curious science behind unique tongue prints and their impact on taste

• What cutting-edge studies reveal about ultra-processed foods and their effects on our well-being

Mary Beth Albright is an award-winning journalist and author of Eat & Flourish: How Food Supports Emotional Well-Being, which is available in several languages. She also hosts the podcast Eat You’ll Feel Better, offering advice on emotional wellness through food.

Her career spans public health, government, and law, with notable contributions including pioneering food-mood coverage at The Washington Post, working on National Geographic’s The Plate initiative, and critiquing restaurants for DC Magazine. Mary Beth holds a J.D. cum laude from Georgetown Law, a B.A. with honors from Johns Hopkins, and a certificate in culinary basics from L’Academie de Cuisine.

Website: marybethalbright.com
Instagram: @mary.beth
Twitter: @MaryBeth

Patricia Devers, D.O.

The Mastery of the Gut Microbiome: Who’s Really in Charge Here?

Ever wondered what’s really going on in your gut? Spoiler alert: it’s not just your stomach making all the decisions! Your gut is home to trillions of micro-organisms—yes, that’s a trillion—that are running the show when it comes to your health. From influencing your mood and skin to balancing hormones and boosting immunity, these tiny powerhouses have a major impact on your overall well-being.

Join Dr. Patti Devers, Chief Clinical Officer at Genova Diagnostics, as she takes you on an eye-opening journey into the world of the gut microbiome. Discover how this microbial universe affects every aspect of your health and how the medical community recognizes, following in the footsteps of Hippocrates who famously stated that all diseases begin in the gut. You’ll learn practical tips on how to optimize your gut health, from cutting-edge testing to simple lifestyle tweaks.

Dr. Devers will share insights into how your gut microbiome influences your overall health and provide personalized strategies for enhancing your well-being. Prepare to uncover new ways to support your health and take actionable steps toward a more balanced and vibrant life!

Dr. Patti Devers serves as the Chief Clinical Officer at Genova Diagnostics, a pioneering leader in microbiome, nutrition, immune function, and genomics testing. At the forefront of advanced diagnostics, Genova Diagnostics offers comprehensive tools that uncover the root causes of health issues. Their detailed recommendations encompass dietary adjustments, probiotic use, and lifestyle changes to address health concerns and promote overall well-being.

Website: https://www.gdx.net 
Access Lab Testing for Yourself: https://connect.gdx.net 
Instagram @genovadiagnostics and @genovaconnect
LinkedIn @genovadiagnostics

Matt Dawson

Forever Young: How Science and AI Can Keep You Vibrant at 100 and Beyond

Get ready for what promises to be an enlightening—and possibly life-changing—session with Dr. Dawson, the mastermind behind Wild Health. Imagine a future where you’re still rocking out at 100 with the energy of a teenager! Dr. Dawson’s innovative approach combines science and AI to turn back the clock and extend your healthspan, all while making it look effortless.

Dr. Dawson, who seems to have more awards and accolades than we have room to list, has authored two textbooks, contributed to hundreds of book chapters, and published dozens of studies. His app and podcast have been downloaded millions of times—clearly, he’s onto something! Over the past decade, he’s also managed to start six companies or nonprofits.

At Wild Health, Dr. Dawson and his team blend holistic treatment with cutting-edge genomics to create personalized wellness plans. His goal? To help you not just live longer, but live better, with a side of youthful exuberance that lasts for a century.

Our long-standing partnership with Wild Health reflects our shared passion for individualized medicine and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of wellness. Together, we're bringing you the latest in personalized health strategies.

Join us and learn how Dr. Dawson’s science-backed, AI-driven approach might just be the secret to living a vibrant, youthful life well into your golden years.

Website: www.wildhealth.com
Instagram: @wildhealthmd

Dr. Sharon Malone

Navigating Health and Hormones

In this insightful and empowering talk, inspired by Grown Women Talk by Dr. Sharon Malone, we dive deep into the critical health issues that women face as they age, from menopause to hormonal changes and the importance of proactive healthcare. Dr. Malone, a renowned OB-GYN, provides a compassionate and informed perspective on the often-overlooked challenges women encounter in their 40s, 50s, and beyond. With practical medical advice, evidence-based insights, and candid discussions, this session will address everything from managing menopausal symptoms, heart health, and bone density to understanding the emotional and mental shifts that accompany aging. Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of their bodies and the tools to advocate for their health, empowering them to embrace this new stage of life with confidence and well-being.

Dr. Sharon Malone is a highly respected OB-GYN and women's health advocate with over 30 years of experience. A graduate of Harvard Medical School, she has worked with prestigious institutions like Johns Hopkins and George Washington University Hospital and served as the Medical Director of the Menopause and Midlife Wellness Center at Foxhall OB-GYN in Washington, D.C. Throughout her distinguished career, Dr. Malone has provided care to a wide range of patients, including high-profile public figures such as First Lady Michelle Obama and other influential leaders. As co-author of Grown Women Talk, she combines her medical expertise with real-life narratives to empower women in navigating the complexities of midlife health, particularly in areas like menopause and hormonal balance. Dr. Malone continues to be a prominent voice in women's healthcare, championing holistic well-being and education.

Website: www.drsharonmalone.com
X: @smalonemd
Instagram: @smalonemd

Dr. Patrick Hwu

Revolutionizing Cancer Care: The Next Frontier in Immunotherapy and its Impact on Health

In this talk, Dr. Patrick Hwu will explore the cutting-edge advancements in immunotherapy and their profound implications for both cancer treatment and overall wellness. As science uncovers the remarkable power of the immune system, we are now able to tap into its healing capabilities not just for fighting disease, but for enhancing long-term health and vitality. Dr. Hwu will share insights from decades of research, shedding light on how innovations in immune-based therapies are transforming cancer care and offering new paradigms for maintaining well-being. Innovative treatments like personalized cell-based therapies and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) are breakthroughs that are revolutionizing the way we treat cancer, offering new hope for patients. Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of the immune system’s potential, and how these discoveries can be applied to optimize health, improve longevity, and prevent illness.

Dr. Patrick Hwu, MD is the President and CEO of Moffitt Cancer Center and a globally recognized leader in cancer immunotherapy. With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Hwu has played a pivotal role in developing groundbreaking treatments, including tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), that harness the immune system to combat cancer. Previously the Division Head of Cancer Medicine at MD Anderson Cancer Center, he led one of the nation’s premier cancer immunology programs and has contributed significantly to clinical research, particularly in melanoma and solid tumors. Dr. Hwu is a prolific author, having published extensively in top scientific journals, and is a sought-after speaker in the oncology field. At Moffitt, he is dedicated to advancing precision medicine and immunotherapy, fostering innovation in cancer research, and building strategic partnerships to improve patient outcomes globally.

Website: https://www.moffitt.org/about-moffitt/executive-leadership/patrick-hwu-md/
X: @PatrickHwuMD

Mikel Blair

The Power of Play: Unlocking Connection & Community

In this engaging session, Mikel Blair will dive into the transformative role of play in fostering connection, healing, and personal growth. Through interactive activities and shared experiences, participants will explore how laughter, deep breathing, and play activate the body’s natural healing systems, reduce stress, and strengthen relationships. Drawing on her work with Modern Revival and Badlands, Mikel will share insights into how playful interactions deepen self-awareness and build meaningful community. Attendees will leave inspired and equipped to integrate play into their daily lives.

Mikel Blair brings over a decade of experience to her work in conscious leadership and community building. As the co-founder of Modern Revival, she focuses on creating meaningful connections among women through gatherings that explore body wisdom, emotional intelligence, and personal stories. Mikel is also the founder of Badlands, an interactive children's learning space in Rockville, MD, and actively supports organizations focused on education, at-risk youth, and mental health.

Website: www.modernrevival.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/modernrevivalcommunity
Instagram: @modernrevivalcommunity
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/modernrevivalcommunity

Holly Copeland

Sound Bath with Crystal Singing Bowls, Gongs, and Tuning Forks

Holly Copeland’s Sound Bath Deep Dive offers a transformative and immersive experience where participants are guided into deep states of relaxation and healing through the power of sound. Using instruments like crystal singing bowls, gongs, and tuning forks, Holly creates a meditative soundscape designed to balance the body’s energy and promote inner calm. The sound frequencies work to shift brainwave states, facilitating relaxation, emotional release, and spiritual connection. This session helps attendees de-stress, rejuvenate, and experience profound mental clarity and emotional harmony.

Holly Copeland is a former conservation scientist at The Nature Conservancy with over two decades of experience dedicated to protecting the natural world. Now, as the founder of Heart Mind Alchemy, she blends her scientific background with expertise in Human Potential coaching, NeuroMeditation, and sound healing. Holly’s current offerings include mindfulness coaching, biofeedback sessions, sound baths, sound healing, and group and corporate wellness programs. She is also the host of the "Wild for Frequency" podcast, where she explores the intersection of science, spirituality, and personal growth.

Website: https://www.hollycopeland.co/
Instagram: @rewilding.anearthlinglovestory
Facebook: Heart Mind Alchemy Lab: https://www.facebook.com/groups/468088840497387

Jim Dethmer

Embracing Authenticity: A Path to Vibrant Living

When we wear masks and hide behind facades, we drain our vitality. Authenticity, while sometimes intimidating, is also incredibly liberating. Imagine what it would feel like to simply be who you are—free from pretense and fully embracing your true self. Authenticity begins with the courage to be honest with ourselves and grows into the art of sharing our truths in ways that foster connection rather than conflict. This approach is essential for nurturing meaningful relationships, both in our personal lives and professional environments.

Jim Dethmer will join us again this year to explore how embracing authenticity can bring peace and joy into our lives. He will help us consider: What might our lives look and feel like if we fully embraced our authentic selves?

As a coach, speaker, and author, Jim is a founding partner at The Conscious Leadership Group (CLG). With over two decades of experience, he has guided more than 150 CEOs and their teams in adopting conscious leadership practices. His deep expertise helps transform both workplaces and individual lives through insightful and impactful leadership principles.

Website: https://conscious.is
Instagram: @consciousleadershipgroup

David Starbuck Smith

Morning Stretches and Posture Alignment

David is a dedicated student of the body and mind, with expertise spanning anatomy, biomechanics, physiology, nutrition, psychology, and metaphysics.

Renowned for his exceptional skill in identifying postural and mechanical imbalances, David analyzes posture and gait mechanics alongside other effective functional tests. He then employs a hands-off approach, utilizing tailored stretching and strengthening exercises to realign not only the specific painful joint, muscle, or nerve but the entire body.

David has been a part of our conferences for many years now, and we are excited that he is joining us again this year. We all deeply value his contributions and the unique insights he brings. David will lead our morning stretches and body alignment sessions, offering valuable practices to start each day. His ultimate goal is to empower you to heal yourself through these exercises and equip you with the tools to maintain long-term health, balance, functionality, and freedom from pain.

Website: https://davidstarbucksmith.com
YouTube: @davidstarbucksmith
Instagram: @davidstarbucksmith

Tracy Freeman, MD

Ask the Doctor
BB&R’s Chief Medical Officer peels back the onion on the questions she gets asked most in 2024.

Dr. Freeman Integrates the most effective treatments from holistic and conventional medicine to bring her patients the most innovative approach to true healing. Dr. Freeman’s progressive methodology is grounded in decades of experience searching out the root cause of disease. As a mother of a child with autism she has a personal understanding of the challenges patients face. Doctor Freeman breaks down the most important topics in wellness today bringing the insights of a physician and the compassion of a mother.

Website: www.tracyfreemanmd.com
Instagram: @drtracyfreeman

Doro Bush Koch and Patricia Reilly Koch

Doro Bush Koch and Patricia Reilly Koch are lifelong friends and wellness advocates who have made it their mission to help others live healthier, more fulfilled lives. As co-founders of the annual Achieving Optimal Health Conference (AOHC) at Georgetown University, creators of the Health Gig podcast, and founders of BB&R Wellness Consulting, they’ve touched countless lives through their work. They also designed the Foundations of Wellbeing Experience at the Gasparilla Inn in Boca Grande, Florida—a unique wellness retreat aimed at helping participants reconnect with themselves and discover a deeper sense of balance.

For over two decades, Doro and Tricia have been passionate about sharing innovative approaches to wellbeing. They see themselves as lifelong students on the path to creating healthier, happier lives, always learning and growing alongside the communities they serve. By blending personal stories, cutting-edge research, and practical tips, they help audiences take meaningful steps toward better health—physically, mentally, and emotionally. They know firsthand how transformative it can be to take ownership of one’s wellbeing, and they are committed to helping others find that same empowerment.

Their journey as wellness pioneers has been fueled by a deep desire to help people shift from passive caretakers of their health to active participants. They believe that true wellness isn’t about isolated fixes but about seeing the bigger picture—connecting the mind, body, and spirit in ways that lead to lasting change. Doro and Tricia are dedicated to creating spaces where people feel supported and part of a community, knowing that the journey to health is much richer when shared.

At the heart of their work is a simple belief: when people feel inspired and included in the conversation about their own health, they are empowered to make real change. Doro and Tricia take what can feel like overwhelming health information and break it down into easy, actionable steps. And the impact? It ripples outward—from individuals to their families, to their friends, and into entire communities. They are leading a movement toward wellness that’s personal, connected, and truly transformative.

View our Past Speakers