
Presenters

Founders of Raw Food Education
Drs. Rick & Karen Dina, D.C.
Dr.’s Rick and Karen Dina D.C. are licensed clinicians with over 60 years of combined experience in teaching raw vegan education and embracing the lifestyle, their evidence based approach to raw food education is grounded in peer-reviewed research. They run one of the largest online raw food education programs at rawfoodeducation.com and are very passionate about living a healthy lifestyle!

Harvard Graduate Doctor
Dr.Joshua Helman MD
Dr. Joshua Helman MD is a Harvard-trained Physician licensed in 14 states. He has two degrees in Biochemistry (bachelor’s from Harvard magna cum laude and master’s from the University of Cambridge, UK). Dr. Josh is Board Certified by the American Board of Emergency Medicine and the American Board of Lifestyle Medicine. His Medical Degree is from Harvard Medical School and MIT. He is the former and current Medical Director of Hippocrates Health Institute, and has worked at the TrueNorth Health Center with a focus on Fasting. He has worked in a Tampa, Florida clinic for 6 years reversing Alzheimer's Dementia. He Co-hosted a Summit in November 2023 called "The Truth About Alzheimer's: How to Slow Aging and Prevent Alzheimer's".
He is the Chief Medical Officer of Alzheimer’s Treatment Centers of America.
Dr. Josh’s areas of interest include Alzheimer's Disease, Vitality, Longevity, Regeneration, Toxins, Mold, Lyme Disease, Energy Medicine and Breathwork. He is Passionate about applying his Biochemical Knowledge to Real-World Challenges. As a Plant-based Physician, he embraces a Holistic approach including the importance of Diet and Lifestyle for Optimal Health.
Dr. Josh is inspired by patients’ ability to change their bad habits and adopt a better lifestyle, in order to improve and sometimes reverse chronic diseases. His own journey to better health took roughly 10 years, so he is sympathetic for patients who face setbacks, struggles and challenges with their own changes. In his free time, he likes to exercise, travel and hike.

University of Michigan Graduate
Dr. Joel Kahn, MD
At his core, Dr. Joel Kahn believes that plant-based nutrition is the most powerful source of preventative medicine on the planet. Having practiced traditional cardiology since 1983, it was only after his own commitment to a plant based vegan diet that he truly began to delve into the realm of non-traditional diagnostic tools, prevention tactics and nutrition-based recovery protocols. These ideologies led him to change his approach and focus on being a holistic cardiologist. He passionately lectures throughout the country about the health benefits of a plant-based anti-aging diet inspiring a new generation of thought leaders to think scientifically and critically about the body’s ability to heal itself through proper nutrition.
One of the world’s top cardiologists, Dr. Joel Kahn has treated thousands of acute heart attacks during his career. He’d like all that to stop. He’d like to prevent ALL future heart attacks by breaking through to the public to educate and inspire a new holistic lifestyle. Now is the time to focus on educating the public to eat clean, sweat clean and apply cutting edge science to their lifestyle. We are pleased to have Dr. Kahn going us via zoom to cover all things heart health related as well and answer your questions!

80-10-10 Author
Dr. Douglas Graham
Dr. Douglas Graham, a lifetime athlete and raw fooder since 1978, is an advisor to world-class and motivated athletes and trainers from around the globe. He was in private practice as a chiropractor for twenty years, before retiring to focus on his writing and speaking. Dr. Graham has been a pioneer in the raw food movement, and has been living and eating raw vegan for over 40 years!
Dr. Graham is the author of many books on health and raw food including The 80/10/10 Diet, The High Energy Diet Recipe Guide, Nutrition and Athletic Performance, Grain Damage, Prevention and Care of Athletic Injuries, and his latest, Perpetual Health 365. He has shared his strategies for success with audiences at more than 4,000 presentations worldwide. Recognized as one of the fathers of the modern raw movement, Dr. Graham is the only lecturer to have attended and given keynote presentations at all of the major raw events in the world for each of the last eight years. Dr. Graham is also the creator of "Simply Delicious" cuisine and director of Health and Fitness Week, which provides Olympic-class training and nutrition for people of all fitness levels in beautiful settings around the world. He will inspire, motivate, educate, and entertain you like no one else in the health movement can.

Raw Food Romance
Lissa Marris
Lissa, a passionate advocate for the raw vegan lifestyle since 2014, champions animal welfare and optimal health. Speaking at various events and summits, she delights in crafting delectable raw vegan recipes. Merging her photography prowess with culinary skills, Lissa has curated recipe books and meal plans, urging others towards raw, wholesome choices. Dive deep with her insights on battling cravings and navigating the mindset for healthful decisions. Choose vibrant living with Lissa!
You can find her ebooks here: http://payhip.com/rawfoodromance and enjoy 40% off with code: RAWFOOD40
Join the Raw Food Romance Online Community at https://bit.ly/rawfoodromancecommunity
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/c/rawfoodromance
All other links: http://sociatap.com/rawfoodromance

Raw Food Creator
Nate Marris
Nate has been thriving on a raw food lifestyle since 2017 and is passionate about helping others do the same. Through his engaging YouTube videos and dedicated online private community, Nate focuses on inspiring men to improve their health by eating more raw, plant-based foods. His community is a supportive space where men can learn how to boost their energy, improve blood flow, and take charge of their well-being. With a focus on practical, easy-to-follow advice, Nate loves teaching others how to incorporate raw foods into their lives for long-term health and vitality.
You can find Nate's ebooks here: http://payhip.com/rawnattyn8 and enjoy 40% off with code: RAWFOOD40
Join Nate's online community here: https://www.skool.com/full-mast-empire-6715/about
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/natemaris
All other links: http://sociatap.com/nicecreamking

Ms. Fit Vegan
Jeannette Donofrio
Jeannette Donofrio (also known as @Ms.FitVegan) is the author of the best selling Raw Vegan Beauty Book, Raw Vegan Excuses Part One and Two, Healing Powers of The Raw Food Diet and many other books and courses. She is extremely passionate about sharing her experience and knowledge of a fruit-based raw vegan lifestyle, which she has followed since 2011.
Jeannette has naturally healed her cystic acne, chronic fatigue, migraine headaches, IBS, eczema, depression, chronic lung infections, chronic back and knee pain, and has lost over 60 lbs all by changing what she eats AND how she thinks!
Since 2017, she has helped to coordinate The Woodstock Fruit Festival, one of the world's largest raw vegan retreats and now runs her Raw Vegan Beauty Retreats in Miami, Florida! Jeannette is a former NYC Food and Beverage Business Consultant and is currently working towards opening Fruit Is Life, the world's FIRST fast-fruit restaurant!
She is dedicated to inspiring the world to eat fruit and be cute, and is committed to providing value through her free resources, books, podcast, courses, social media, and YouTube channel, where she posts daily content on fruit, healthy living, goal-achieving strategies, and more!
Jeannette is one of the most authentic and trusted leaders in the raw vegan movement and goes by Ms.FitVegan on all social media platforms!
You can connect with her via her website www.MsFitVegan.com or by email at JD@MsFitVegan.com

Author of Creating Healthy Children
Karen Ranzi
Karen Ranzi, M.A. is a vegan health coach since 1998, award-winning author, internationally acclaimed speaker, founder of the online 100 hour Vegan Coach Certification Course for aspiring vegan health coaches, and a speech and language pathologist for 43 years.
Karen Ranzi has been vegan since 1989 and raw vegan since 1994. Karen’s health coaching specializes in helping women with weight, hormonal and gut issues, raising the healthiest vegan children, and healing and preventing autism.Karen is winner of the “Living Now” Award in the category of Health and Nutrition from Independent Publishers, and the “Peer-to-Peer Award for Service to Children’s Health for her first book Creating Healthy Children. Karen’s recipe book is Raw Vegan Recipe Fun for Families. Her third book is Heal and Prevent Autism: Natural Solutions That Work and her fourth book published in 2024 is Bye Bye Acne: Clearing Over 25 Years of Cystic Acne in 3 Months. Karen has traveled throughout the United States and abroad to speak on the extreme benefits of a low fat raw vegan lifestyle. Karen has been a popular speaker at the London Vegfest and the Woodstock Fruit Festival, and has been a featured speaker for hundreds of events in Australia, Borneo, Russia, Brazil, Costa Rica, Canada, the UK and throughout the United States. In 1994, Karen was able to heal her three year old son from asthma and chronic ear infections and herself from cystic acne, hormonal imbalances and IBS (irritable bow-el syndrome) through dietary and lifestyle changes. By means of her education, life-changing personal expe-riences, and a sincere desire to share her message, Karen has been able to guide thousands toward develop-
ing excellent health through simple raw plant food living. You can find Karen at FeelFabulouswithFood.com SuperHealthyChildren.com
Raising the Healthiest Vegan Children

Health Educator
Ellen Livingston
Ellen Livingston is the director of Living Heart Ministry, a health-focused private ministerial association under common law. She is a natural health and wellness mentor whose insight is grounded in over 20 years of experience dedicated to a raw vegan lifestyle, and helping others access and integrate Nature’s wisdom, and choose a creative, heart-led life. Known for her sincerity, compassion, and accessible teaching style, Ellen Livingston is a top-rated, sought-after public speaker, educator, mentor and writer for topics ranging from raw vegan science, to lifestyle considerations, to mental, emotional and spiritual well-being. Her audience includes those who are seeking to raise their health and energy levels, to those ready to embark on the deepest emotional and spiritual journeys. She has been mentoring others, presenting at The Woodstock Fruit Festival, and leading unique wellness retreats in North America and Costa Rica since 2007. Ellen writes a weekly blog on Substack, and has published 2 books: “The Ultimate Raw Food Diet Detox and Wellness Program,”and“Following Nature Home: Raw truths uncovered on a 20-year fruitarian odyssey.”

Creator of Raw Intuition
Matt Bennett
Matt Bennett is a Holistic Health Educator with a passionate focus on raw, living foods, and detoxification. Matt grew up with several common health issues including asthma, eczema, dry skin, frequent congestion, and more. After discovering the concept of a whole-food, plant-based, raw vegan diet and lifestyle in 2011, he witnessed the healing of virtually all of his childhood health conditions. He now enjoys inspiring people to eat more raw fruits and vegetables through his books, social media, and his monthly newsletter at Myrawintuition.com.
Find Matt's books, services, and newsletter at: https://myrawintuition.com/shop/
Also find Matt’s books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B09Z35CF3K/allbooks?ingress=0&visitId=01c61faa-bd98-4461-b28e-2a22f70049c5&store_ref=ap_rdr&ref_=ap_rdr
Connect with Matt on social media:

Founders of A Plant Based Diet.org
Mike and Denise Young
Mike and Denise Young founded aPlantBasedDiet.org in 2014, a non-profit that focuses on HealthSpan and Longevity. The organization has developed a minimum standard for “health” food to assist in the practice of Sustainable Veganism. Please visit http://HealthyVeganFood.info for details.
Local and international events produced by the team exclusively feature 100% Healthy Vegan Food or better to immerse participants into the Health Optimization lifestyle. These fun and highly educational events are held at restaurants, partner organization locations, organic farms, and even travel and vacation experiences across the globe! In addition, projects are currently under development that are unveiling the future of real estate and communities where HealthSpan, Longevity, Health Optimization, Fun, Education, and Affordability are all combined to allow you to fully enjoy life! Our free resource book is available @ http://LIVEto150.org
At the Vegan Wellness Retreat all the food will not only be 100% living raw food but also follow strict guide lines to be certified "healthy vegan food"
To be designated CERTIFIED “Healthy Vegan Food” each food item applied for must contain…
Whole Plant Fiber
Zero Animal Products
Zero Added Oil
Zero Added Salt / Sodium
Zero Alcohol
Zero Refined Sugar
(white sugar, barley malt, beet sugar, brown rice syrup, brown sugar, cane juice crystals, cane sugar, corn syrup, confectioner’s sugar, fructose)

CEO of The Sprouting Company
Doug Evans
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Doug Evans is the Founder and CEO of The Sprouting Company. A former paratrooper in the U.S. Army’s 82nd Airborne Division and an early pioneer in the natural food industry, he authored the national bestseller The Sprout Book, which reached #1 in Plant-Based books on Amazon. Currently residing at Wonder Valley Hot Springs in Southern California, Doug is revolutionizing home gardening through sprouting, making it affordable and accessible to grow fresh food right in your kitchen. His mission is to help people discover how to grow and enjoy the most nutritious food on the planet: sprouts. Doug will be joining us for an exclusive zoom talk on all things sprouts and will answer your questions!
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Get more information about Doug Sprouters at:
Activity Leaders

Gardening Workshop & Vacuum Blending Tutorial
John Kohler
John Kohler is a globally recognized expert in plant-based nutrition, juicing, and home food cultivation. Since 1995, he has followed a nutrient-dense raw fruit and vegetable diet to rebuild his health and strengthen his immune system after a life-threatening battle with spinal meningitis, likely due to complement immune deficiency. His decades of research focus on achieving the highest levels of health through fresh, minimally processed foods. As a sought-after educator and speaker, John has dedicated his life to teaching others how to optimize their diet and well-being. He has produced over 3,500 educational YouTube videos, amassing more than 198 million views and over 1.2 million followers across his platforms. His flagship channel, OKRAW, features over 850 videos on raw food nutrition, helping viewers harness the power of fresh, whole foods. John is also the founder of DiscountJuicers.com, where he is regarded as the world's leading expert on nutrient concentration and preservation using juicers and vacuum blenders. On his DiscountJuicers YouTube channel, he has created over 900 videos, educating people on the best appliances to incorporate more plants into their diet. Beyond nutrition, John is a pioneering advocate for homegrown food. Over the past 20+ years, he has experimented with the most effective methods to grow the highest-quality produce in urban environments. His groundbreaking work proves that anyone can cultivate a nutrient-rich, abundant garden—even in a small space. His widely popular YouTube channel, GrowingYourGreens, boasts over 1,750 videos, where he teaches millions how to grow their own food efficiently. John's expertise is in high demand, and he is a regular keynote speaker and instructor at major health festivals, gardening conferences, and nutrition summits worldwide. His hands-on approach, deep knowledge, and engaging teaching style make him one of the most trusted voices in the space of plant-based living, juicing, and sustainable food production. With a lifelong mission to empower people to take control of their health through better nutrition and home gardening, John continues to inspire millions to eat better, grow their own food, and live healthier, more sustainable lives.

On Site Nurse
Ray Rinkes
Ray Rinkes is a dedicated registered nurse with a passion for promoting wellness through lifestyle medicine. With a specialization in cardiac health and a degree in Exercise Science, Ray combines his expertise in healthcare and fitness to help individuals achieve vibrant health and well-being.
As a whole food/high raw nurse, Ray is a firm believer in the transformative power of a nutrient-dense diet and the health benefits of raw, plant-based foods. He brings his passion and knowledge to his role as a nurse at the Vegan Wellness Festival, where he offers compassionate care and guidance to attendees.
Ray’s commitment to service extends beyond his professional work. He has served as the nurse for the 2024 Woodstock Fruit Festival and has volunteered with Ledge Light Health District in Connecticut, consistently going above and beyond to support the health and wellness of his community.
A self-described fitness fanatic, Ray is as enthusiastic about staying active as he is about helping others. Whether he's out for a run, listening to the latest health podcasts, or delving into books on cutting-edge medical discoveries, he’s always learning and staying at the forefront of health science.
Known for his warm, approachable nature and versatile skills, Ray enjoys being helpful in all aspects of life—from providing health advice to proofreading scripts or even helping with a move. His dedication to understanding health at both micro and macro levels reflects his holistic approach to wellness.
Ray is thrilled to share his expertise and passion at the Vegan Wellness Festival, empowering others to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.

Holistic Living Workshop
Erica Lucas
Erica Lucas is a Holistic Nutrition Health Coach and Educator on Natural Medicine and Essential Oils. She will be joining us for the retreat to offer Aromatherapy hand massages. This will prove to be beyond an enjoyable experience, as with the oil of your choice, you'll receive systemic benefits unique to your body's needs.
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email: wowwitherica@gmail.com

On Site Chriropractor
Dr. Lee Horine, DC MSSC BA
Meet Lee, a luminary in the world of healing and a beacon of light for those seeking a journey back to radiant health. Graduating Summa Cum Laude with a Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Life University in 2014, Lee’s academic brilliance is matched only by his deep commitment to elevating the well-being of every individual he encounters. With a Masters Degree in Chiropractic Sports Science and a rich background in Clinical Nutrition, Functional Neurology, Movement Disorders, and Childhood Development Disorders, Lee weaves a tapestry of healing that spans the scientific to the spiritual.
Beyond the walls of academia, Lee served as a revered university instructor in human anatomy dissection lab, sharing his extensive understanding of the human body with aspiring healers. His dedication to mastering the art of healing is evidenced by over 20,000 clinical hours with 5000+ clinical hours in Pregnancy and Infant Care, and extensive training in Animal Chiropractic and Regenerative Detoxification.
Yet, Lee’s journey transcends the physical dimensions of health. A profound spiritual awakening in 2017 has imbued his practice with a deep sense of connection to the metaphysical nature of reality, enriching his approach to wellness with insights from Human Design and the healing power of nature. Married to his radiant soulmate Natalie, Lee finds joy in hiking, exploring the metaphysical, working out, and cherishing moments with his daughter Sedona and their shared adventures in a raw vegan lifestyle. Lee’s transformative 130-day exclusive juice feast is a testament to his dedication to living a life of purity, vibrancy, and connection to the divine essence.

On Site Chriropractor
Natalie Horine, DC MSSC BA
Dr. Natalie Horine, DC MSSC BS
Co-owner Ignite Chiropractic & Divine Spark Family Wellness
Introducing Natalie, a gifted healer and an embodiment of grace and healing power. Graduating with honors from Life University’s Doctor of Chiropractic program in 2014, Natalie’s journey in health and wellness is illuminated by her passion for unlocking the deepest potentials of the human spirit and body. With over 20,000 hours of hands-on healing experience, a Masters Degree in Chiropractic Sports Science, and extensive training in Functional Neurology, Childhood Development Disorders, and Clinical Nutrition, Natalie’s expertise is a beacon for those navigating the path to optimal health.
As a cherished university instructor in the human anatomy dissection lab, Natalie has inspired countless students with her knowledge and compassion. Her dedication to holistic health is evidenced by her commitment to Pregnancy and Infant Care, with over 5000 clinical hours dedicated to supporting mothers and infants in their most formative stages.
Natalie’s healing journey is deeply intertwined with her personal evolution, marked by a spiritual awakening in 2017. Married to her twin flame, Lee, she is a vibrant force of nature, embodying the principles of yoga, intuitive readings, and a raw vegan lifestyle. Natalie’s experience with a transformative 84-day juice feast and her dedication to a natural home birth speak volumes of her commitment to living in harmony with nature’s wisdom.
Together, Lee and Natalie stand as pillars of Divine Spark Family Wellness, their lives a testament to the power of love, healing, and the unyielding belief in the potential of every soul to ignite the divine spark within.

Yoga Instructor
Stacey Heiny
Stacey Heiny is a holistic nutritionist, certified plant-based coach, and former Pilates studio owner with an extensive background in mind-body wellness. With a passion for helping women elevate their health, confidence, and beauty, Stacey blends modern science and holistic practices to create transformative beauty and wellness routines.As an advocate for beauty and vibrant health, Stacey specializes in the powerful benefits of waterless beauty and plant-based living while mentoring her team and supporting wellness clients. Alongside her husband, she owns an organic farm where they cultivate produce sold at local farmers markets, embodying her commitment to sustainable and nourishing living.A dedicated homeschool mom, Stacey is no stranger to the balance of family, business, and self-care. She uses her personal journey and professional expertise to inspire others to prioritize their wellness while embracing a fulfilling and intentional lifestyle.Connect with Stacey on Instagram: www.instagram.com/theherbanfarmacy

Ultramarathon Workshop Leader
Dmitry Epishin
Dmitry Epishin transitioned to a 100% fruit-based diet at the age of 51. This journey took him over six years as he attempted to cure chronic ailments, including spinal paralysis, through various dietary approaches and systems. Previously a prominent businessman, Dmitry also changed his career when he switched his diet. His main project now is called Fruit Pilgrim. Dmitry was born and raised in Russia, lived in Canada and Spain, and has visited over 50 countries. He continues to travel the world, discovering new fruits and finding new routes for his Fruit Pilgrim project. Recently, Dmitry completed a more than 40-day pilgrimage in Spain, the Camino de Santiago Silver Route, covering a distance of 1,007 km while eating only fruit. He also completed several endurance routes, the main one being a six-day journey on the Camino Primitivo through the mountains of Asturias and Galicia, spanning 315 km. Each day, Dmitry walked over fifty kilometers with a backpack full of fruit. Another of Dmitry’s passions is single-day climbs of famous peaks worldwide. He completed a night climb to Spain’s highest point, Mount Teide (3,718 m, with an elevation gain of 1,618 m), and conquered a two-day route in one day to reach the summit of Mount Toubkal in Morocco (4,167 m, with an elevation gain of 2,417 m).
At the retreat, Dmitry will share his story of transitioning to a fruit-based diet in his 50s, talk about his Fruit Pilgrim project, and discuss the body’s capabilities and transformations when sustained solely on fruit.

Art Workshop Leader
Jerrell White
With roots in nature, Jerell White, is a trained Arborist and Horticulturist, which influences his artistic vision and deep appreciation for the environment. He is a multifaceted health and wellness enthusiast, dedicated to living a vibrant and intentional life. A proud vegan, a devoted cat dad, and currently exploring the transformative benefits of a raw food lifestyle. Passionate about fitness and mixed martial arts. As a certified personal trainer, Jerell channels his energy into inspiring others, using simple tools to empower them to embrace healthier, more active lives.
Jerell is a self-taught mixed media abstract artist, inspired by his personal healing journey and collaborative work with his brother, a talented human vocalist and beatbox artist. He has developed unique, self-adapted techniques some of which are —splashing, scraping, dripping, and spreading— his art reflects his belief that art is a form of liberation and that everyone has an artist within.
At JsplashArt, Jerell’s mission is to create Art pieces that reflect his unique perspective and surroundings, offering art lovers the chance to discover something fresh and exciting. His work not only celebrates creativity but also gives back, with 15% of each sale going to charitable causes. Through his workshops and artwork, Jerell fosters a sense of freedom, connection, and possibility, encouraging others to see life as a canvas for their own expression.
find him @Apolloscatadventures
on the Web - www.jsplashart.com

Art Workshop Leader
Boo Boafo
Boo believes Yoga is not so much about what we practice on our mat rather, it's more about how we walk our path in life off the mat. Boo's eternal question to participants is 'what can you take from your daily practice and filter it into the remaining 23 hours of the day? each and everyday'.
Boo came to yoga decades ago, due to a painful personal health issue which literally corrected itself within a week of yoga practice. She was hooked for life. Her practice on the mat led to the deeper exploration of yoga off the mat, This led to numerous trainings’ and certifications in Yoga, mindfulness and Health and Wellness Education.
Her approach in her work as a Holistic Lifestyler is - ‘It's not any one thing it's everything’ taking into perspective the ‘Wholeness’ of mind, body and life, with the fundamental key being to approach from a place of love and kindness in every-which-way possible. Her work has led her to being the lead chef on international retreats, as well as a yoga teacher and health advocate on retreats here in the USA.
As a dedicated health and wellness educator Boo, specializes in workshops, speaking engagements and consulting, inspiring underserved communities, private, and corporate partners and clients, to embrace inner harmony through, mental health awareness, mindful breathwork, supportive nutrition, movement and conscious commerce for economic empowerment. One breath, one heartbeat at a time, from a foundation of Love and light.
Find her on
Web - www.holisticlifestler.co

Sobriety Workshop Leader
Jennifer Leupp, LCSW
Jennifer (Jeni) Leupp, LCSW, is a licensed psychotherapist and coach specializing in people-pleasing, trauma, and addictions. She is certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and trained in IFS (Internal Family Systems). Jeni is also the author of Sobriety Workbook for Women, a certified yoga instructor, and a longtime fruit-based high raw vegan. Licensed in California, Florida, and Vermont, Jeni spends her free time practicing yoga, traveling, and creating music and art.
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Retreat MC
Coach Robert Moore
Coach Robert Moore is a dedicated Plant-Based Nutrition and Fitness Specialist, Health Coach, and Speaker. He transitioned to a plant-based lifestyle over seven years ago, reversing personal health issues such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome and significantly improving his overall wellness. Robert's journey into health coaching began after witnessing the profound effects of a plant-based diet on his health and the lives of those around him.
After his mother’s passing due to cancer and the birth of his first son, Robert adopted a vegan lifestyle in 2014 to prevent the chronic diseases prevalent in his family, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart issues. This transition marked the beginning of his commitment to holistic health and wellness.
In 2019, a pivotal moment occurred when he helped a friend lose 20 pounds in three months, regain mobility, and improve his overall health. Inspired by this success, Robert quit his corporate sales job and dedicated himself to coaching full-time. Since then, he has helped over 150 clients lose weight, get off medications for high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol, and manage autoimmune disorders.
Robert founded You Transform Fit LLC, a company dedicated to helping people, particularly those over 30, achieve their health goals through a holistic, plant-based approach. His coaching programs emphasize reducing toxic load, eating nutrient-rich foods, daily movement, hydration, adequate sleep, and stress management.
A sought-after speaker, Robert has shared his expertise at events like Conquer Diabetes Virtual Summit, Black VegFest, The Black Vegan Experience, and Philly Vegfest. His mission is to make living healthy simple, offering actionable steps and supportive guidance to transform lives through better health.

Ultramarathon Workshop
Grant Campbell
Grant is a 19yr fruit-based raw vegan athlete. He is an ultramarathon runner and dancer who has written multiple books and can't wait to speak to you about how a raw diet improved his athletic performance!
Web: www.rawaussieathlete.com
Food Demonstrators

Expert Food Demoist
Ken Black
Kevin Black (aka @rawfoodiestyle on Instagram)
In 2009 Kevin had an eye-opening, spiritual awakening that totally altered the direction of his life. Later that year he was delivered from a 22 year alcohol addiction and started to be more mindful as to what he was ingesting into his body.
It started out with an anti-fungal diet (similar to Atkins, Keto & Paleo) for a few years but he never really obtained the results he was hoping to achieve. In 2014 his brother was hospitalized with liver failure and soon after passed. This prompted Kevin to dig deeper into holistic health and that’s when he came across the raw vegan lifestyle. Every fiber of his being just knew that this would be the big breakthrough that he had been looking for. In March of 2015 he dove in headfirst and never looked back.
After 10 years, Kevin is still as enthusiastic about this way of eating as he ever was. He enjoys lots of fresh fruit, big salads and simulation meals of past favorites. All of his recipes are low-fat friendly and oil-free. His ebooks can be purchased from his store at https://payhip.com/RawFoodieStyle

Expert Food Demonstrator
Daniel McKinnon
Daniel is a 20+ year raw vegan chef and developer of many unique raw recipes . He has thrived in Calgary Alberta Canada for 20 cold winters and has many techniques to make raw recipes fun and exciting! At the retreat he will be offering raw food tasting showcasing his creations! He is the author of multiple cookbooks and cant wait to share his recipes with you! You can find him on instagram at enzyme.333.
Chefs

2025 Head VWR Chef
Shari Leiterman
I am Shari Leiterman, your Angel of Vitality, guiding you through a transformative journey with Rawsome Living. As a seasoned vegan chef and health enthusiast, I've dedicated three decades to mastering the art of raw, plant-based cuisine, infusing life and energy into every dish I create. My mission is to enlighten and inspire, offering a sanctuary where health is revered as the ultimate wealth. At Rawsome Living, we don't just prepare food; we curate experiences that nourish the soul and invigorate the body. From personal chef services to retreats that rejuvenate, each encounter is designed to elevate your well-being. As a personal trainer and educator, I empower individuals to embrace fitness and holistic practices, including groundbreaking light therapy, that align with our natural vibrancy. Join me in this haven of health, where every recipe, class, and therapy session is a step towards your most radiant self. Together, we'll unlock the secrets of longevity and vitality, proving that the truest form of wealth is a life lived to its fullest, brimming with energy and passion. Welcome to Rawsome Living, where every moment is an opportunity to thrive

2025 Head Pastry Chef
Lilla Sulkala
Raw food nutritionist and the head Pastry chef at the 2025 Vegan Wellness Retreat. Lilla hosts raw vegan retreats and courses in Finland and Spain, as well as coaches online. She switched to raw foods 5 years ago to heal her acne but surprisingly healed everything else in her life too. Depression and anxiety disorder disappeared within one week of a nutrient-dense fruit based low fat raw food diet. No more pain or unexplained sensations were left in her body. No more flus, infections and visits to a doctor. She learned with the very best teachers from Mastering Raw Food Nutrition (Drs. Karen and Rick Dina) and she is now spreading the wisdom. Lilla aim's to make others healthy and happy too and we are grateful to have her be a part of our team!
Media Team

Aerial Drone Flyer & Professional Videographer
James Schaberg
James will be one of the on site drone flyers at the 2025 VWR. He is a local Michigan aerial photographer with a lot of experience. Learn more about his work by going to https://www.jamesschaberg.com/
Meet the Founders

Co-Founders
Chase & Sarah Beatty
Chase and Sarah are the co-founders of the Vegan Wellness Retreat. Two weeks after meeting, they watched "Earthlings" together and "What The Health" and decided to give a vegan diet a try. Both their kids have been vegan since birth. The whole family is on a high raw vegan diet with Chase on a fully raw diet over the past 2.5 years. Having a true passion for the lifestyle, but a lack of healthy community events nearby, they started the first VWR in Miami, Fl in 2024. Their mission is to empower people to make better food choices through education, inspiration, and human connection.