A celebration of female power- body, mind and soul!
Bios
Hillary Hess MS, LPC, RYT
Areas of Interest: Mental health and wellness education and skills; trauma and healing integration; mindfulness based strategies
Hillary E. Hess, is a licensed professional counselor with a Master’s Degree in Counseling and Clinical Health Psychology from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. She has since worked for different non-profit organizations counseling children, families and adults who have experienced trauma, anxiety, depression and other stress-related difficulties. Hillary has been in private practice for the last 7 years specializing in cognitive behavior therapy, mindfulness based strategies and somatic movement and yoga. She has continuing education and certifications in trauma informed expressive arts, trauma sensitive yoga facilitation, mindfulness based stress reduction and psychedelic assisted therapies and research. Hillary believes in living a mindful life and enjoys slowing down, being in nature and spending time with her son Mekhi and large dog Ranger.
Dida Gazoli
Areas of Interest: Memoir/creative nonfiction writing coach, editor, and publisher
Dida Gazoli is a family life author, creative nonfiction coach and
editor. She additionally publishes essays and editorials related to
mental health, women’s issues, and current events. Her work has been featured in the Washington Post, Microsoft News, yahoo!life,
Psychology Today, SHE Media’s SheKnows, and the internationally
syndicated show Tales from the South on NPR, in addition to other
digital and print publications.
She began her Braving Veracity project in 2019 at the onset of the
pandemic, making the decision to build an anthology series in 2020 to support the voices and work of women and non-binary writers
interested in memoir and creative nonfiction. For more information on
the project and its platform, how to support the authors featured
in Braving Veracity, or how to submit your own work for consideration, please visit www.bravingveracity.com.
Stephanie Sudjian
Areas of interest: Functional medicine and nutrition related to fertility, pregnancy, postpartum, hormonal health, perimenopause and menopause
Stephanie Sudjian, MS, RD, LDN, CLT, IFMCP, is the founder of FPH Wellness, and a seasoned Integrative & Functional Registered Dietitian specializing in women’s health. Her expertise lies in creating meaningful connections with her clients to help them harness their bodies’ potential using food as a key functional medicine tactic. Stephanie’s empathetic nature and commitment to an evidence-based, whole-person approach helps women better understand and trust their bodies’ healing abilities.
Drawing from personal experience with unrelenting GI issues, chronic pain, and chronic fatigue dismissed and ignored by conventional methods, Stephanie deeply values advocating for her clients. Her journey, marked by a 15- year struggle for accurate diagnosis and treatment, fuels her dedication to functional medicine’s role in whole-body healing. With over a decade of advanced education and specialized functional training, Stephanie is committed to guiding you toward the health outcomes you deserve, with a focus on genuine care and comprehensive wellness solutions. Her mission is to promote self-confidence, individuality, and personalized care for every patient at FPH Wellness, and to change the dialogue and outcomes surrounding women’s health.
Marinella Kelly
Areas of interest: Creativity Positivity & how gemstones can remind you to remain mentally & physically hopeful
Hello Beauties,
I’m Marinella and my mantra is ‘Accessorize with ease & intent.’ I truly believe living this in all aspects of life, from what I wear, to worthy causes & people I cherish.
Life for me is about family, community, love, peace and positivism, which is demonstrated through my jewelry designs, especially in my small batch, curated, Protection Bracelets. Each stone, crystal, charm and medal included holds a symbolic significance.
Bracelet Workshops are a new favorite, and I look forward to guiding you through creating your lovely, meaningful & truly unique designs at EmpowHer!
Kristen Wilson PT, DPT
Areas of interest: Pelvic health, strength training for women, Women's health, Prenatal/postpartum care
Kristen began her therapy career at Bryn Mawr Rehabilitation Hospital after graduating from Ithaca College with her Masters Degree, and subsequently completing her Doctorate in Physical Therapy at Temple University. She quickly developed a passion
for treating clients with neurological conditions, prompting her to pursue an advanced certification in Neuro-Developmental Technique, a hands-on technique for the treatment of individuals with hemiplegia. Understanding that the older adult has great potential in improving their health and fitness, Kristen became an American Physical Therapy Association Geriatric Certified Specialist in 2009. Kristen also excels at treating conditions like pelvic floor dysfunction, pre/post natal care, back and shoulder pain, and
rehabilitating balance and walking problems.
In addition to her clinical skills, Kristen loves to lecture in the classroom which allows her to “nerd-out” with doctorate-level physical therapy students. Kristen is an active
member of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) Private Practice Section, serving as Editor of the national publication Impact Magazine and participating in the mastermind Peer 2 Peer Networking group. She enjoys writing for a variety of publications, as well as conducting public speaking educational programs throughout the community on a variety of health-related topics. She has presented at many community events including Health on Tap Kennett Square, Mill Summit Health in High Heels, and various community health fairs.
When not wrangling her three incredibly active sons, Kristen enjoys sharing good wine and food, cooking Bon Appetit recipes, and dancing like no one is watching.
Michelle Vahey
Areas of Interest: Overall nutrition, health and wellness, Functional Fitness CPT, Functional Aging Specialist, Yoga
Michelle’s passion for fitness started at a very young age, as a gymnast and dancer she was always worried about her weight and what to eat, that led her into seeking a Culinary Degree and minor in Nutrition from Johnson & Wales University.
After dealing with her own struggles with Health and Wellness, It was clear that she wanted to help others find Joy in life and help them become a better version of themselves. We are all born with a special gift, Michelle will make it her personal goal to help others find what ignites their soul.
Michelle is a Certified Health Coach with IIN (Integrative Institute of Nutrition in New York City), Certified by the American Association of Drugless Practitioners (AADP) Certified TRX Instructor, Certified Personal and Group Personal trainer with AFFA, a 200 Hr. Registered Yoga Instructor, Certified Aqua Fitness Instructor and VBarre Instructor.
She is the co-founder and owner of VIDA Performance where she applies all of her passions (studies) in helping others achieve the life they are meant to have.
Michelle strongly believes that adding healthy foods, movement (exercise) and purpose to your life, will help you become the Best Version of Yourself.
"Believe in yourself. Take time to become a healthier and happier YOU, doing so will make everyone around you happy too."
Ashley Respress, RN, BSN
Areas of Interest: Cancer (Prevention, Education, Statistics), Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).
Ashley Respress is a dedicated nurse with extensive experience at renowned cancer hospitals such as MD Anderson Cancer Hospital and US Oncology. Her commitment to ensuring equal access to care for all patients, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status, was shaped during her time in Texas. Ashley also worked with Optum - United Health Group, assisting patients in understanding their insurance benefits and locating resources. In her role as Executive Director of Patient Engagement at Acellus Health and Head of Health Equity, Ashley focuses on developing and implementing strategies to enhance patient experience and access to quality care, with a particular emphasis on promoting health equity. She is also dedicated to forging crucial partnerships with institutions aiming to integrate technology into their cancer programs.
Ashley's personal journey, including her mother's battle with AML leukemia, fuels her determination to advocate for everyone affected by cancer. Ashley's work in the field of oncology is a testament to her dedication to improving patient outcomes and promoting health equity.
Jen Evans
Areas of Interest: Mindset, intentional habits, sobriety
As a three time Boston Marathoner she knows how to identify and overcome self-limiting beliefs, push the limits of what’s possible, and help you reach your full potential.
Jen has combineher 17 years of clinical experience with her coaching skills to empower others to live fully aligned lives. As a group fitness instructor and health enthusiast she brings clarity to those striving to feel their best in every dimension of life
Jen prefers days in the sun but also enjoys autumn walks with her dog and snowboarding with family and friends. As a mom of 2 boys she knows what it’s like to balance family and career and is grateful for the support of her loving husband.
Jen holds a BSN for Salisbury University as well as a Transformative Nurse Coach Certification from The Nurse Coach Collective.
Dr. Kathryn Ellis
Areas of Interest: Sexual Pleasure, Sexual Desire & Arousal, Sexual communication
Dr. Kathryn Ellis is an occupational therapist and American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists Certified Sexaulity Counselor, but most importantly she is a pleasure advocate and enthusiast. Kathryn started the Military's first OccupationalTherapy Sexuality & Intimacy Clinic at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, where she worked for 10 years before starting her private practice in Wilmington, DE. She's an author, speaker, and consultant on all things sex, intimacy, and pleasure. Kathryn absolutely loves working with women to help them strengthen their relationship with their bodies, their desire, and their pleasure because good sex makes for an empowered woman!
Leslie Mariani
Areas of Interest: Incapacity Planning, Estate Plan Creation
As a resident of Kennett Square for more than 40 years and a licensed attorney for the last 27, I enjoy connecting with members of our community who are looking for a trusted legal advisor. I’m thankful that I’ve been afforded the opportunity to raise my kids in Chester County, surrounded by curious and kind individuals and families.
Allie Mazza
Areas of Interest: Senior Care and Housing, Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia
Allie Mazza founded Brandywine Concierge Senior Services in 2019 after working for years in the Senior Care industry and seeing a need, locally, for someone who could truly help guide families through the options and resources available. Today, Brandywine Concierge serves hundreds of families each year as they approach the incredibly challenging task of finding the best solution for their aging loved ones.
Allie’s first taste of senior care came when she answered an ad during graduate school for an older man who needed companion care. After her first time with him, she decided to shift her focus from Training and Development to the senior care industry. After college, Allie started her career as an Activities Director for an Assisted Living and Memory Care community. From there, Allie worked as a Sales and Marketing Director for many years for various communities. Once she moved to Pennsylvania and began working locally for several communities, she saw a need that she decided to fill.
Allie has a BA in Psychology and MA in Communications from West Chester University. She is also a Certified Dementia Care Practitioner.
Karen Wallace-Braun, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Areas of Interest: Relationships, Mental health, Anxiety, Mood Disorders
Karen Wallace-Braun holds a bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education with a minor in Psychology from West Chester University. Her passion for understanding human behavior led her to pursue a master’s degree in social work from Widener University. She is Licensed in the state of Pennsylvania for clinical social work.
She is a seasoned therapist bringing over 15 years of experience in private practice to her clients. Karen is dedicated to providing compassionate and effective support for individuals and couples who are navigating life’s challenges. She values high-quality care tailored to each individual’s unique needs. Her training includes certification as a Gestalt therapist and training in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). Additionally, she is proficient in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), which she frequently utilizes in her work with couples.
Prior to establishing her private practice, Karen shared her expertise as an educator for 12 years at the college level, nurturing future professionals in the field of therapy. Her teaching experience has allowed her to blend theoretical knowledge and practical insights into her therapeutic approach to lead to healing and growth for her clients.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Karen enjoys spending time with her husband of 23 years and her 21 year old daughter, Isabella, and her 17 year old son, Donovan.
Jennifer Sonson , CFP
Areas of Interest: Financial Planning, Working With Women To Make Them Fit and Sassy
With over 13 years of experience in the financial services industry, I am a passionate and dedicated Financial Advisor at Raymond James, where I hold the CFP® certification. My mission is to help my clients achieve their financial goals and dreams, by providing them with personalized and comprehensive financial planning and investment advice. I value building long-term and trusting relationships with my clients, and I strive to deliver exceptional client service and satisfaction. I am proud to be a part of Raymond James, a leading independent financial services firm that values integrity, independence, and client-first approach.
Emily R. Woodson, CFP®, CDFA®
Areas of Interest: Financial Planning, Investing, Insurance Planning, Retirement Planning
I deeply believe in the impact that a good financial advisor can have on her clients. I love that I help people pursue their financial life goals, attain a sense of security, make purposeful decisions, and create and build wealth. I love building relationships with my clients, getting to know about their desires and goals, their families and what is important to them. My client’s success is my goal. I truly feel that this is my calling!
I serve women, and their families, who are nearing retirement, working with them to build a lifelong relationship. Financial planning can be very overwhelming and having an experienced professional who can help to prioritize, organize, and simplify the various aspects of it is essential. With ten years of teaching experience, I can take complex financial concepts and break them down into understandable and relatable parts – allowing my clients to gain an understanding of topics that can be overwhelming and confusing. With over 15 years of experience in the financial planning world and a very high level of emotional intelligence, I provide professional acumen with a highly personal touch.
When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my husband, two children and stepson, our dog and our extended family and friends. I am an avid snow skier and love to spend time in nature. As a family, we enjoy playing tennis, traveling, and exploring new places. We live in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania.
Hen Bellman
Hen has practiced yoga since 2012, after her first experience sparked intrigue. Following years of personal practice, and feeling drawn to the warmth of the community, she completed her 200hr YTT at Yoga Secrets in 2022. She began teaching soon after completing her training and now holds regular evening classes on Mondays (Yin) and Thursdays (Slow Flow & Yoga Nidra). In her classes, she shares asana (physical poses) and pranayama (breath work) to balance movement and stillness in a safe and caring space. She aims to grow your practice by encouraging personal curiosity, connection, and care; by first caring for ourselves, we can care for our wider community and environment. Through the commitment of personal practice, she believes we can achieve deeper self-awareness, understanding towards others, and celebrate the vibrancy of life.
Marianne Viceconte
Marianne believes that being present on the mat is one of yoga’s greatest challenges but, when achieved, results in greater consciousness and inner peace. In class she will encourage you to cultivate your awareness of your inner experience. Each class is an opportunity to breathe, connect to an intention, and to develop mindful movement and thoughts. Marianne’s wish for her students is that the clarity and insight they gain about themselves while on their mat extends into their daily life.
Marianne’s own yoga journey began with the hope of alleviating joint pain from years of running as well as improving her flexibility. She has taught yoga for 9 years, is an ERYT 200 and enjoys teaching and practicing different types of yoga. Her favorite pose is Vasisthasana (Side Plank Pose) because it creates balance and strength, while challenging students to ground and to expand. She enjoys running, meditating, cooking, reading a good book, and watching documentaries. She lives in Wilmington with her husband and two children.
Cassie Plumb
Cassie sees yoga as a means by which we can change our own lives and become more aware of the ways in which we treat ourselves and others. The practice is not specific to personality, body type, or religion. It is an accessible way to heal, strengthen, humble, grow and learn to get through life with the least amount of worry or distress. Maybe you learn something new about yoga or yourself. Practicing and teaching gives Cassie the opportunity to help you do this. She is grateful to share her love of yoga and life with those around her. Cassie’s classes are high energy and challenging, with emphasis on linking breath with movement while flowing to a fun soundtrack! Come ready to breathe, sweat and flow!
Elizabeth Gehrt, C-IAYT, ERYT500, Co-Owner Yoga Secrets - Kennett Square
Elizabeth Gehrt is a Certified Yoga Therapist, (C-IAYT), Yoga Instructor (ERYT500), Registered Prenatal Yoga Teacher (RPYT), and Ayurvedic Yoga Specialist (AYS). She is a Co-Owner of Yoga Secrets in Kennett Square, PA. Elizabeth teaches weekly yoga classes at Yoga Secrets, including Warm Slow Flow & Yoga Nidra, Gentle, Chair and Prenatal as well as offering monthly workshops and special events.
Elizabeth’s passion is helping clients feel and move better using yoga’s proven therapeutic benefits at whatever level a client is able and willing to engage. With deep compassion for the experiences that shape an individual’s journey through life and in their body, Elizabeth strives to provide an experience that meets a client where they are and opens the door to health and healing through addressing all dimensions of their being. Her teaching style awakens awareness, curiosity, and exploration of breath and movement all while being playful, loving and mindful.
Cara Lehmann
Cara has been teaching at Yoga Secrets since 2013, and is an ERYT 200 & Reiki Master. Her vinyasa classes encourage you to sweat as you move mindfully and rhythmically with your breath. In 2015 she completed a 30 hour certification in Yin Yoga, which enlightened her to the beauty of surrender and balance. Cara enjoys sharing her love of yoga, music and the healing power of touch. You can count on a warm welcome, thoughtful playlist, hands-on assists (with permission), and maybe a few giggles or tears, depending on the day!
Lexa Chernin
Lexa Chernin is an Ayurvedic Practitioner, Ayurvedic Yoga Therapist, Sanskrit teacher, and co-owner of Yoga Secrets in Kennett Square, PA. She teaches weekly yoga classes, is a lead teacher for the Yoga Secrets Yoga Teacher Trainings, and has a clinical Ayurveda practice at Yoga Secrets in which she helps clients address health concerns and find radical wellness.
Kara Gibbons
Health Coach
KSquared Health Coaching, a dedicated woman-owned business in Chester County, is committed to enhancing holistic well-being. As a certified Health and Gut Health Coach through IIN, we specialize in a realistic coaching approach, addressing physical health, mental well-being, lifestyle choices, and personal development.
Our active involvement in community events such as the Mushroom Cap Half Marathon and EmpowHer reflects our commitment to fostering positive life-changing experiences in Kennett Square. We extend support to individuals and couples navigating challenging lifestyle changes, providing guidance on their well-being journey.
Additionally, we are passionate advocates for colon cancer awareness. By actively participating in initiatives and events, we aim to raise awareness and support those affected by colon cancer. At KSquared Health Coaching, our overarching goal is to create a ripple effect of overall wellness within the community, making a lasting impact on individuals' lives. We are more than just a coaching service; we are a resource for those seeking empowerment in a supportive environment.
Amanda Rotenberry
Amanda is a lead teacher at Pure Barre Greenville, Delaware. Athletics and exercise have always been a part of her life. She began playing little league in elementary school and tried numerous sports before she found volleyball in sixth grade. She has continued to play for over 30 years. When the time came to decide on a career path, it was no surprise that she chose a career that involved athletics. Amanda earned a BS in Athletic Training and went on to earn a MS in Kinesiology with an emphasis in sports psychology. She spends her days helping those who have experienced injuries heal. In her current role she is involved in injury prevention. Her Pure Barre journey began in November 2013 when she and a friend tried a class at the new fitness studio. She has not left the studio since. She became a teacher in April 2015 and is certified to teach all five class formats offered at the studio. Amanda loves to connect with the clients, sharing their gains and growths, and watching their confidence rise with each class.
Jackie Johnson
Areas of Interest: Empowering Women to Embrace the Art of Makeup and Self-Expression.
Jackie Johnson has been a freelance hair and makeup artist for 22 years. Self-taught, she began her career at Nordstrom in 2001 and was trained by the following high end lines where she worked: Lancome, Clinique, Bobbi Brown, Trish McEvoy. Realizing that many women invest in makeup and hair products that they do not know how to apply or use on their own. She followed her dream and started Bella, because her passion is to help women feel their best and teach them how to accentuate their own beauty. Jackie freelances for NBC 10 Philadelphia, NBC Universal and Philly POPS, styling hair and applying makeup to on air talent, celebrities and politicians. Her experience is in bridal makeup, hair and TV. Jackie recently embarked on a opportunity as a on-air guest as a brand ambassador for Sharper Image on QVC.
Dr. Helen McCullough DO, MPH, ACOG,NAMS
Areas of Interest: Menopause, Hormones and Women’s Health
Dr. McCullough earned her Bachelor's degrees in Psychology and Biology from Boston College, followed by a Master's in Public Health from New York Medical College. She obtained her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) from Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed her OB/GYN residency at the Medical Center of Delaware, now known as Christiana Care Health System (CCHS).
In 2000, she co-founded All About Woman, an OB/GYN company, serving as a founding partner. Transitioning to CCHS in 2018, Dr. McCullough focused on GYN surgery and gynecology. Recognizing the crucial demand for menopause guidance and support, she initiated a virtual platform for menopausal care and hormonal issues in August 2023.
Presently, Dr. McCullough resides in Wilmington with her husband, Dr. Michael Duzy, a cardiologist. They have two daughters: one is attending college at Villanova, while the other is a senior auditor at Price Waterhouse Coopers. They eagerly anticipate the arrival of their first grandchildren, twins, expected in March 2024.
Carrie Miller-Baichi, MD
Areas of Interest: Women’s Digestive Health
Dr. Miller-Baichi was originally born and raised in Northeast Philadelphia.
She completed her Bachelor’s Degree at the University of Pennsylvania, graduating Magna Cum Laude. She then attended medical school at New York University School of Medicine. She completed Internal Medicine residency training at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia and Gastroenterology Fellowship at the University of Buffalo. After completing her training, she joined the West Chester Division of US Digestive Health in 2007.
Dr. Miller-Baichi practices general gastroenterology and has a special interest in women’s digestive health.
Outside of work, she loves spending time with her four children.
David L. Schaen, Senior Portfolio Manager
Areas of Interest: Investment Advisor Representative
With over 30 years of experience as an investment manager focusing on client portfolios, Dave brings a deep understanding and knowledge of financial markets, asset allocation, and portfolio construction.
Before starting SunStone Financial Group under NWAM, LLC, Dave was a registered Financial Advisor and Portfolio Manager with Merrill Lynch for 4 years providing comprehensive investment advice to individuals and high net worth families. Prior to that, Dave was a Partner and Portfolio Manager with Marvin & Palmer, Associates for over 25 years. In this role Dave researched, analyzed, and managed global equity portfolios for institutional investors across all industries and geographies. Dave’s career spans both equities and fixed income asset classes in domestic and international markets.
Under the NWAM, LLC umbrella, Dave and the team at SunStone Financial Group bring a holistic and integrated approach to financial planning and wealth management. Dave focuses on constructing diversified and risk-based portfolios. He is passionate about understanding each client’s unique life and financial goals and working with them to achieve their objectives. Dave received his MBA from Widener University and his BA in Economics from the University of Delaware’s Learner School of Business.
Dave currently resides in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania with his wife Heather. In his free time, Dave enjoys spending family time together with their three daughters, traveling, reading, tennis, skiing, and cycling.
Janet Bolívar, Weather Anchor for Telemundo62
Janet Bolívar is a weather anchor for Telemundo62. She joined the station in April 2022. You can watch Janet’s live weather forecasts weekdays at 5 p.m., 6 p.m. and 11 p.m.
A four-time Emmy award winner, Janet comes to Telemundo62 from KTMD-TV, Telemundo Houston where she served as a weather anchor for more than three years.
Born in Puerto Rico, Janet’s mother and father are from Cuba and Puerto Rico, respectively. She earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Puerto Rico and a master’s degree in International Communication from Tecnológico de Monterrey in Mexico. She is currently in pursuit of her meteorology certification at Mississippi State University.
When she’s not working, Janet enjoys road trips, travelling, reading, going to the beach, cooking, and spending time with her rescue dog whom she saved from the streets of Puerto Rico. She is a strong advocate for rescue animals and is passionate about empowering young girls to study and become professionals.
Katie Centrella
Areas of Interest: Natural Skin Care Products, Artisanal Soap, and Candles
KC Essentials was literally born of a mother's love. In 2014, our infant son had an anaphylactic reaction to yogurt, which led to the diagnosis of his many food allergies. I needed to carefully consider what I put in and on his little body.
As I began to carefully read ingredient labels, I discovered that most products contained unnatural elements, some potentially harmful. I decided to scratch-make personal care products—using only natural, non-harmful ingredients—for our entire family.
And so, KC Essentials was born! As the “Queen Bee” of KC Essentials, it’s my mission to make wholesome products and make them easily accessible. The name for my business comes from my name, Katie Centrella, and from a commitment to the essentials that nature provides us all. The imagery for the company took on a female form of nature and nurture but with a hint of chaos. Bees personify this feeling behind my brand. They are essential-we can’t live without them. They appear erratic, but they all have a job and work together to make an all-natural product with many uses and benefits.
I am so happy to share the fruits of this journey with everyone, helping others find how natural products can care for every hide in your hive.
Robin Lickliter
Chief Experience Officer | Sparks
Areas of Interest: Art, Fashion, Family, Found Objects, Gardening and Culinary Creations with a Passion for People, Culture + Big Ideas.
Robin Lickliter serves as Chief Experience Officer at Sparks, a global brand experience agency specializing in large-scale events and activations. As CXO, Robin is responsible for overseeing all facets of Sparks’ Experiential Division, including client relationship management, business operations and team growth.
People are her passion; Robin prides herself on the ability to create the right teams for brands across many platforms. Utilizing her expertise in marketing, PR, and advertising, she has collaborated with many of the Fortune 1000 including Anheuser-Busch, Netflix, Salesforce, T-Mobile, and particularly Google, for which she has delivered award-winning programs such as Zeitgeist, Google I/O, and Google CES for the past 20 years.
In 2021, Robin was named one of BizBash's 500 Most Influential Event Professionals and later she received Chief Marketer's 1st Annual Top Women in Marketing Award as "Mentor of the Year." Robin is co-founder of the industry initiative "Women in Experiential" and serves as an Executive Sponsor for Sparks' Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), including Sparklers LGBTQ+ and the 'Be YOU' DEI group. She also serves on the National Development Committee for Unite for HER, is an advisory board member of FPH Wellness and is a member of Chief. She’s a lover of found objects, art, fashion, family, gardening and culinary creations with a passion for people, culture + big ideas.
Susana Hall
Health Coach
Coach Susana is a National Board Certified Health Coach and a specialist in Binge Eating Disorders. She holds a BS in Health Sciences from Arizona State University, in which she graduated Summa Cum Laude.
She brings 10 years of experience as a runner and athlete, having finished multiple Trail Races, Tough Mudders and Savage Races as well as competing in more than thirty 5k’s, 10k’s, half marathons and most recently having completed her third full marathon.
Her journey began twenty years ago when, as a plus sized woman at the time, she committed herself to become healthy and fit. Although there were ups and down, Susana stayed committed and continued to make progress, taking it one day at a time. She understood that it was not about a short term fix, but rather the long term goal of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. She realized that in order to do this, it was necessary to seek a professional and so she hired her first coach. With the guidance provided by her coach, she started to reap the benefits of strength training, running, and eating in a way that was nutritious and fueled her body with energy.
Her personal journey fueled a passion for helping others. She recognized the positive impact that her own coach had on her life, and she wanted to do the same for others. She returned to school to build on the foundation she had learned through her own transformation and journey, so that she could provide her clients with all the tools necessary to build a sustainable healthy lifestyle to keep them fit as they age. She does not use fad diets or sell supplements. It's all about making the right changes and living healthy and fit for the rest of your life.
When Susana decided to start her business, she decided that her passion was to help other women achieve their health and fitness goals. Her main client base are women 40 and over that want to start a weight loss or fitness journey, or need help to get back on track.
Claire Gill
Chief Executive Officer, Bone Health and Osteoporosis Foundation
Claire Gill joined the Bone Health and Osteoporosis Foundation (formerly the National Osteoporosis Foundation) in January 2013, after a 20+ year career in public relations for national nonprofit organizations and public relations firms serving Fortune 500 clients. She was named CEO in May 2020 and then led the organization through an 18-month rebrand process. Established in 1984, BHOF is the nation’s leading health organization dedicated to preventing osteoporosis and broken bones, promoting strong bones for life, and reducing human suffering through programs of public and clinician awareness, education, advocacy, and research.
In September 2019, Claire founded and launched the National Menopause Foundation to be a trusted and relatable resource to raise awareness and understanding of menopause through education, activism, and community building.
RICHARD G. FRIED, MD, PhD, FAAD
Dr. Richard G. Fried (Board Certified) is an internationally recognized clinician, researcher, and teacher. After earning his Ph.D. with honors in clinical psychology, Dr. Fried went on to obtain his M.D. degree in Dermatology. He is the co-founder of Yardley Dermatology Associates in Bucks County. As a board certified dermatologist and clinical psychologist, Dr. Fried is a compassionate clinician who has written numerous publications in the areas of acne, psoriasis, rosacea, aging, cosmetic interventions including Botox, skin fillers, skin peels, and laser, as well as the psychological benefits of skin enhancements. Dr. Fried is also the author of Healing Adult Acne, your guide to clear skin & self confidence.
Dr. Fried has also been the recipient of Philadelphia Magazines Top Doc in 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023
Featured Articles and Books by Dr. Fried:
Book: Essential Psychiatry for the Aesthetic Practitioner
Stressing over Acne by Dr. Fried
Dr. Carolyn O’Hara Ianni, MD
Area of interest: Healthy Cognitive Aging and Dementia Care
Dr. Ianni earned a Bachelor of Nursing degree from the University of Delaware. She practiced Oncology nursing for 5 years then went onto medical school at St. George’s University School of Medicine in Grenada. Upon graduation, she completed an Internal Medicine residency at Medical College of Pennsylvania/ Hahnemann University followed by a Geriatric Fellowship at Temple University. She served as an Internal Medicine attending physician in private practice in Wilmington, Delaware for 18 years. She then transitioned to Dementia care at the Swank Memory Center with the Christiana Health Care System in 2021. Presently she diagnoses, educates and treats patients and families along the spectrum of cognitive impairment to Dementia. Dr. Ianni currently resides in Wilmington, Delaware. In her free time she enjoys traveling with her daughter and long hikes with her dog.
Ellen Davies
A yoga and meditation teacher. She helps women discover their value, establish healthy habits and overall feel happier. She has been teaching yoga since 2004, and she also holds an MA in English composition from Virginia Commonwealth University.
Frances Thrasher
Areas of Interest: Organic Oil Based Skincare Combining Nature & Science
Frances Thrasher, creator and founder of Kindred Skincare Co., wanted
to “create an organic skincare line that cleansed and nurtured skin while
simultaneously lifting the mind, body, and spirit.”
Frances’s journey into skincare began when she had to solve her own
skin sensitivities and allergies, after being overexposed to chemicals in
her professional life as a Textile Engineer. Unable to find a solution
with medical professionals or suitable “natural” products, her
frustration led to the creation of a company that has now grown to help
thousands of men and women achieve healthy and happy skin.
Utilizing the principles of “like attracts like”, Frances referred to the
chemistry classes she had taken at The Georgia Institute of Technology
and started to cleanse with oil. Even though it is now seeing a
resurgence, oil cleansing has been used for thousands of years to
effectively cleanse and soothe skin without stripping delicate facial
tissues. Frances also took online Biology courses to further understand
the composition of skin and applied her research to the creation of her
original skincare formulas.
After years of experimenting with different organic oils, botanicals, and
varying ratios, Frances successfully developed balanced, organic, and
moisturizing botanical skincare that she hand crafts in small batches on
her farm in Chester County.
“Our body is a whole, not made up of parts and pieces that function on their own. Therefore, we need to care for our body inside and out the best we can.” – Frances Thrasher
Maria Longhorn
A Fearless Feeder: Empowering Others to Reach Their Potential
I'm a passionate leader with a diverse background that spans retail management, business coaching, and creative direction. Throughout my career, I've thrived in over a dozen industries and across three continents, working with Fortune 500 companies and building a global network for ambitious women.
My driving force? Helping others achieve their wildest dreams. I see myself as a "feeder," fueled by the joy of empowering individuals and teams to reach their full potential. This passion translates into a unique skillset. I can assess strengths, coach with a keen eye, and develop creative solutions to unlock hidden potential.
Beyond the professional realm, I'm a wife, mom, and self-proclaimed "badass." I believe in fearlessly pursuing your goals and standing on your own two feet. This entrepreneurial spirit, instilled by my upbringing, fuels my drive to constantly learn, grow, and make a positive impact.
Currently, I'm the Creative Engagement Director at Creative Esquires Agency, where I help creatives scale their businesses and achieve their dreams. I also lead Limitless Women, a global network dedicated to empowering women in all walks of life.
My vision? To leave a legacy of empowerment. I want to inspire others, especially young girls, to believe in themselves and chase their wildest dreams. As Jim Rohn said, "You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with." Let's connect and create a world where we all rise together!