Events. Conferences. Retreats. Workshops. Live or Virtual

Plan your events

Inspiring: Hope. Health. Healing. 

The best events are inspirational, compelling, and memorable. They are experiences that transform people. They bring forth connection, joy, laughter, and Hope. Health. and Healing. 

Brave Heart Workshops Live or Virtual Events. Conferences. Retreats. and Workshops. are created for transformation and change to enhance connection and joy.  We live in a world filled with so much busyness that it instills loneliness and little time or space for ourselves to explore the connection with ourselves and others we as humans so desperately need. Brave Heart Workshops events focus on empowering individuals in Hope. Health. & Healing. through a connection in life. 

Live well. Laugh Often. and Love Much and your life will be amazing.

De-stress your mind and body through life-changing live & virtual events, conferences, retreats, workshops, and getaway experiences. What’s on your Bucket List? Offering online, and global events, conferences, retreats, workshops, and experiences to meet your needs with a variety of themes and/or topics on Connection, Couples, Intimacy, Marriage, Women’s, Men’s, Co-Ed, 12-Step Recovery, Christianity, Drama Therapy, and Creativity Retreats. 

Your events should reflect the heart and soul of your brand and your passions. We use a proprietary needs assessment to discover what you want your event to look like that will inspire, excite, educate, and motivate your target audiences. We delve deep into the experience to determine when to soothe and when to shake things up so that people remember and connect.

The Brave Heart Workshops event planners have a passion for creating an experience that brings and inspires the leaders, guests,  and attendees. Brave Heart Workshops selects leaders that are trained and experienced in various areas of expertise.

Event Highlights

Events, conferences, retreats, and workshops are crucial for any business, leader, or coach looking to connect with and impress their clients or to network with others in their industry. It’s a great opportunity to bring teams together from all over the world either in person, virtually, or through Hybrid events. Events that are compelling, memorable, and measurable need to be well-planned and creative. From general sessions and keynotes to virtual events and individual breakouts, our strategy, creative and production expertise delivers on-budget and on-brand.

Taking a strategic approach to your event can ensure peace of mind and success. Brave Heart Workshops Live & Virtual Events. Conferences. Retreats. Workshops. & Getaway experiences offer leadership & connection experiences that allow you to stay in your lane and just show up at your event.

 

Our Events Include These Offerings:

Connection with attendees to grow your business

Intimate venue’s for growth individually and as a group with like-minded people to build community

Platforms of transformation inspiring Hope. Health. Healing

Listings of Points of Interest, Attractions, and Dining-Out Ideas

Relaxing wellness and growth events that create unforgettable experiences

Event Management Services

Lead or Co-Lead Live & Virtual Events. Conferences. Retreats. Workshops.
Uncertain Where to Start? De-Stress!

The Brave Heart Strategy

Strategies for Powerful and Influential Events

Key Event Stressors

Connection with attendees, speakers, leaders

Selecting leaders, creating event name, & themes is tedious

Researching venues, accommodations, meeting space & catering

Creating realistic budgets, sticking to them, & accessing pricing options

Utilizing technology, social media and Facebook pages for higher bookings

Preparing contracts to lower chances of lost revenues & greater returns

Registering & collecting payments

Building agendas that blends wellness with play

Finding restaurants with ambiance & a variety of food choices is laborious

Troubleshooting problems. last-minute changes with potential cancellations is demanding & problematic when trying to lead your event

Relax. Refocus. Recharge.

Breathe. Relax. Focus on your Profession & Clients. Be your most Productive Self!

De-Stressed events, retreats, or workshops gives you time to customize & plan your content and focus on your full-time profession.

Know When, Where and How to save money for an unforgettable experience without spending hours on budgets, spreadsheets, and agendas

Ensure your event adheres to set time frames, delicious food, and all things are in play without you having to do the work

Planning events can be stressful or stress-less. Our experienced professionals create events that ensure you can “Relax” and enjoy your event

Designing and visualizing events successfully takes a strategy, planning, preparation, and time-management

Hiring Brave Heart Workshops to handle logistics, ensures you are hiring partners that create the best results and a De-Stressed Event.

De-Stress. Relax. Refocus. Recharge.

Hassle-Free Event Planning

We Manage Events to Impact your Business

 

As a strategic event planning group, Brave Heart Workshops is all about customer satisfaction. Satisfying you, results in a better outcome for your participants. Giving you the space and time to spend on what you do. It is all about the “wow.” It is important to demonstrate a return on your event investment. Let us Create your Hassle-Free Event with our Signature Needs Assessment approach.

As an event strategist we work directly with our clients to identify their needs, vision, and budget to produce influential events with exceptional customer satisfaction.

Budget Management

  • Creates Request for proposal (RFP)
  • Orchestrates a planned budget that cuts costs & increases profits
  • Negotiates for cost-effective pricing and added concessions
  • Leverages & negotiates contracts and counter-proposes if necessary

Logistics

  • Manages registration, spreadsheets, and collection of payments
  • Evaluates group room size, setup design, & décor
  • Audiovisual & entertainment requirements
  • Dietary requirements and restrictions, menu planning, & dining out
  • Gifts and Bonus Packages
  • Shipping if required
  • Security if needed
  • Insurance documents
  • Ground Transportation with Meet & Greets

Communication

  • Event marketing through websites;
  • Facebook pages, booking sites & flyers
  • Monitoring progress of event from start to finish
  • Creates agenda’s and schedules
  • Pre-Event meetings with client, venue, vendors
  • Trouble-Shoot any issues on-site during the event & keep agenda’s timeline flowing
  • Distribute evaluations at conclusion of event
  • Conduct a post-conference follow-up with statistics and results calculated

Retreats We Plan

  • Transformational Retreats
  • Connection Retreats
  • Women’s Retreats
  • Men’s Retreats
  • Therapy Retreats
  • Couples Retreats
  • Marriage Retreats
  • Intimacy Retreats
  • Equine Retreats
  • Meditation Retreats
  • Spiritual Retreats
  • Christian Retreats
  • Co-Ed Retreats
  • Weekend Retreats
  • Drama Therapy Retreats
  • Healing Retreats
  • Wellness Retreats
  • Detox Retreats
  • Mindfulness Retreats

Creates Themes & Venue Choices

  • Analyzes the client’s brand & brings an event vision to life
  • Utilizes creativity & thinks outside of the box
  • Designs the WHEN, WHERE and
  • WHAT of the event
  • Matches & Synergizes the Needs, Wants, Desires & Expectations of Attendees & Leaders
  • Consults with clients to choose best location, venue, and season for event
  • Does Site-assessment to determine suitability
  • Serves as point of contact with venue, vendors, catering, and client

Leader & Speaker Coordination

  • Lays the ground work before the selection
  • Research and find guest speakers to support your theme
  • Personal experience and references of speakers or leaders
  • Coordinates content deadlines, hand-outs, room accommodations, flights & dietary needs

Your Success Is Our Purpose

Brave Heart Workshops Saves you Time, Money, and Undue Stress

Workshops We Plan

  • Psychodrama and Drama Therapy
  • Workshops
  • Women’s Workshops
  • Couples Workshops
  • Codependency Workshops
  • Connection Workshops
  • Healing Workshops
  • Detox Workshops
  • Marriage Workshops
  • Intimacy Workshops
  • Spiritual Workshops
  • Men’s Workshops
  • Wellness Workshops
  • Healing Anxiety Workshops
  • Mindfulness Workshops
  • Parenting Workshops
  • Empowerment Workshops
  • Leadership Workshops

Let’s Get Started

Brave Heart Workshops Event Team

An Innovative Team with a Visionary Approach in Event Planning

Creating Unique & Personalized Events

CEO/Founder, Event Planner, Live Podcast Host, # 1 International Best-Selling Author, Speaker, Retreat Leader, Transformation Coach & Wellness Partner
Jill Reynolds

Jill Reynolds founded Brave Heart Workshops in 2017. She is a Certified Meeting and Event Planner with 37 years of networking and consultative expertise in media, logistics, technology, and hospitality.

Using her background in Meeting and Event Planning, Jill creates amazing conferences weaving authentic up-close stories that connect Hope. Health. and Healing. Jill is known for her Podcast, “The Connection Show” where she helps leaders connect their life stories with who they are today.

She is a #1 International Best-Selling Author in a collaborative book, “Fiercely Faithful” where she shares her story called “The Essence of Humility.” Jill shows an audience how to reconnect with what matters most in life so they can be set free from shame, embarrassment, and humiliation. At 28, Jill’s life was a train wreck. Addicted to Crack Cocaine, Alcohol, and down to 97 pounds, she lost her job in San Diego and moved back to Chicago after she had an encounter with God. She knew her life was hopeless; her health was a disaster, and she had no idea what to do next. Everything felt impossible. But she showed up week after week at church and prayed to God to help her and to give her the resiliency to recover. Jill believed that doing the hard work of digging into her story and connecting the dots of her traumatic childhood would bring her Hope. Health. and Healing which she desired. The work and resiliency paid off. Today she is passionate about spreading Hope. Health. and Healing. to everyone she meets. Never give up. Connect the dots in your stories and they will set you free. Jill is thrilled to be working with leaders and in leading attendees in Hope, Health, and Healing as she is also a Wellness Partner with Amare Global, The Mental Wellness Company. Jill’s been fully recovered from substance abuse since 1984, codependency since 1992, and eating disorders since 2015. Over the years, she has helped over 100 women in recovery. Jill loves doing/teaching Water Aerobics and Improv. Despite her own family of origin traumas, she intentionally lives a life of serving others, and helping them seek meaning, and healing in their lives. She was a single-never married mom and raised her son alone for 17 years. She has been married to Larry since May 2000. Jill’s personal intention is to bring unique events to people globally so they can Be Brave, Be Authentic, Courageous, and Strong.

Chief Executive Officer/Co-Founder
Brave Heart Workshops

Brave Heart Workshops was founded by Larry in 2016. He believes in helping others discover their true authentic self, to live life more completely, and to identify and fulfill their life purpose.
Larry received his Bachelor of Arts Degree from Valparaiso University in Indiana in Business Administration and Management, and his master’s degree from Northern Illinois University in Business Administration and Management.
Larry has received professional designations from The Institutes CPCU Society – Chartered Property and Casualty Underwriter (CPCU), and Associate in Research & Planning (ARP), and The National Alliance for Insurance Education & Research (CIC),
Larry had been a volunteer at a large mega church serving on their insurance committee, leading Small Groups, and hosting international pastors from all over the world to help offset their travel costs at a local Global Leadership Summit.

Larry has broad in-depth experience in management, marketing, and sales. He also has an impressive record of success as a Field Consultant, Division Manager and Sales Team Leader, a Sales Professional, and a Corporate Planning Director. Larry has conferred with major companies to increase sales, improve profitability, and strengthen customer service.
Larry oversaw a Sales Staff, was Division Manager of the Year two years consecutively, and managed a $40 Million Book of Property & Casualty Insurance Business. He led a Sales Team that sold the largest direct account in company history.
Larry brings much value to the Brave Heart Workshops with his Vision Setting, Leadership, and Management skills. These attributes help keep venue costs and expenses affordable for each retreat and workshop. His compassion and empathy make every attendee feel welcomed. His leadership skills keep the event flowing with ease

What Our Clients Say

40th Birthday Party• April 8, 2023•From New York City, NY
Jill exceeded my expectations. She offered me good advice and walked me through the preparation for the Zoom party. She has good experience and she did a great job as a moderator during the events. She has a good sense of judgment and reactivity. I am thankful for all the work she did before and during the events. I will surely use her services again in the future. Also, she is kind, patient, funny, and she is always on time .
Gigi
40th Birthday Party ...
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40th Birthday Party• April 8, 2023•From New York City, NY
Jill exceeded my expectations. She offered me good advice and walked me through the preparation for the Zoom party. She has good experience and she did a great job as a moderator during the events. She has a good sense of judgment and reactivity. I am thankful for all the work she did before and during the events. I will surely use her services again in the future. Also, she is kind, patient, funny, and she is always on time.
Gigi
40th Birthday Party • April 8, 2023•From New York City, NY
40th Birthday Party• April 8, 2023•From New York City, NY
Dr. Laura Wood
Jill is a passionate advocate of mental health and wellness. She has years of experience in event planning and has decided to use her skills towards creating her own boutique company, Brave Hearts Workshops. As a clinician, I love doing workshops and retreats, but do not enjoy doing the planning outside of the clinical content. This is where Jill’s skills set is so unbelievably valuable. Partnering will Brave Hearts allows me to do what I love and do best and allows Jill to do the same. If you have a strong following...
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Dr. Laura Wood
Assistant Professor at Lesley University & Drama Therapist
Jill is a passionate advocate of mental health and wellness. She has years of experience in event planning and has decided to use her skills towards creating her own boutique company, Brave Hearts Workshops. As a clinician, I love doing workshops and retreats, but do not enjoy doing the planning outside of the clinical content. This is where Jill’s skills set is so unbelievably valuable. Partnering will Brave Hearts allows me to do what I love and do best and allows Jill to do the same. If you have a strong following but need support with event site planning, food, etc. I recommend partnering with Brave Hearts. Dr. Laura Wood Assistant Professor at Lesley University & Drama Therapist
Dr. Laura Wood
Assistant Professor at Lesley University & Drama Therapist
Dorothy Y
Both Brave Heart Workshops I attended were great experiences for me, opening a door to some issues from my past I was unaware of before. It was challenging, but one of the most enlightening opportunities of my life! I discovered the root of my trauma and was able to take home what I learned in the workshop and fully heal, conquer my fears, and confront major obstacles in my life. I learned about my strength, my desires, my needs, and my true authentic self. I am now a social worker...
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Dorothy Y
Professional Therapist
Both Brave Heart Workshops I attended were great experiences for me, opening a door to some issues from my past I was unaware of before. It was challenging, but one of the most enlightening opportunities of my life! I discovered the root of my trauma and was able to take home what I learned in the workshop and fully heal, conquer my fears, and confront major obstacles in my life. I learned about my strength, my desires, my needs, and my true authentic self. I am now a social worker and therapist practicing from a place of solidarity, clarity, and a grounded foundation. I found my voice and my freedom. I feel so blessed, grateful, inspired, and hopeful that others can do the same through Jill’s workshops. Dorothy Y Professional Therapist
Dorothy Y
Professional Therapist
Lonnie S
Freeing …..I have attended two Brave Heart Workshops — an incredible experience both times. Jill has so much experience with different modalities of personal wellness, which makes her retreats so successful. I have personally enjoyed the drama therapy workshop weekends- which have brought much clarity and freedom to my own journey. Jill has a heart and a passion for wellness in body, mind, and spirit, coupled with the skills to make these workshops run efficiently. She balances therapeutic story and body-work with time and space for effective rest, reflection, and...
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Lonnie S
Wellness Coach/Story Leader
Freeing…..I have attended two Brave Heart Workshops — an incredible experience both times. Jill has so much experience with different modalities of personal wellness, which makes her retreats so successful. I have personally enjoyed the drama therapy workshop weekends- which have brought much clarity and freedom to my own journey. Jill has a heart and a passion for wellness in body, mind, and spirit, coupled with the skills to make these workshops run efficiently. She balances therapeutic story and body-work with time and space for effective rest, reflection, and rejuvenation. Lonnie S Wellness Coach/Story Leader
Lonnie S
Wellness Coach/Story Leader
Ian Braziller
I have had the pleasure of working with and coaching Jill for the past year and have been amazed and inspired by her persistent and comprehensive work ethic. Jill has a full circle thought process and was able to improve our hotel in many areas where other sales managers may overlook. This has elevated the finished product we can now offer to guests. Jill is one of the most organized and detailed oriented people I know and best of all she delivers sales results. She is fantastic with clients and has produced significant growth for our hotel for group business ...
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Ian Braziller
Revenue Manager at G6 Hospitality 2012
I have had the pleasure of working with and coaching Jill for the past year and have been amazed and inspired by her persistent and comprehensive work ethic. Jill has a full circle thought process and was able to improve our hotel in many areas where other sales managers may overlook. This has elevated the finished product we can now offer to guests. Jill is one of the most organized and detailed oriented people I know and best of all she delivers sales results. She is fantastic with clients and has produced significant growth for our hotel for group business and corporate/preferred transient business. Ian Braziller Revenue Manager at G6 Hospitality 2012
Ian Braziller
Revenue Manager at G6 Hospitality 2012
Jeremy S.
Brave Heart Workshops showed up at such a crucial time in my life and made an incredible impact I will never forget. Jill puts together a wonderful program. I cannot say enough. Jeremy S. Professional Therapist
Jeremy S.
Professional Therapist
Brave Heart Workshops showed up at such a crucial time in my life and made an incredible impact I will never forget. Jill puts together a wonderful program. I cannot say enough. Jeremy S. Professional Therapist
Jeremy S.
Professional Therapist
Karen Z
When Jill first encouraged me to attend a Brave Heart retreat my automatic response was that of anxiety and the belief this concept was not in the parameters of my comfort zone. As I witnessed Jill ‘s passion and anticipation of the upcoming retreat and more information was presented I reconsidered. Maybe that is what I must do- step outside the parameters of my comfort zone. I began to feel that was exactly what I needed to do in order to pursue a different avenue of healing trauma - one I hadn’t explored before- drama therapy....
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Karen Z
Women's Connection Group
When Jill first encouraged me to attend a Brave Heart retreat my automatic response was that of anxiety and the belief this concept was not in the parameters of my comfort zone. As I witnessed Jill‘s passion and anticipation of the upcoming retreat and more information was presented I reconsidered. Maybe that is what I must do- step outside the parameters of my comfort zone. I began to feel that was exactly what I needed to do in order to pursue a different avenue of healing trauma - one I hadn’t explored before- drama therapy. The idea of getting up in front of a group of people and working through my issues was frightening at first. Immediately there was a camaraderie with the other women. I felt completely safe and comfortable to share parts of my story. I was so moved with the kindness, compassion, and support that my inhibition dissipated being in such accepting environment. I had a sense of belonging and felt a freedom to open up in ways I have never imagined before. The atmosphere was so comfortable relaxed and welcoming. I felt such a privilege to have Dr. Laura Wood as facilitator. Both Dr. Wood and Jill are gifted communicators with extraordinary level of compassion and intuitive caring that provided me a process to move toward healing while also feeling safe. That experience was profound for me. The next year there was no hesitation to sign up. I was excited about continuing unraveling the the layers of trauma. Being at the retreat enabled me to take my health and wellness to a higher level and equip me to empower myself to make some powerful changes in my life. I totally endorse the professional and integrity of Jill Reynolds. With her depth of concern and care for others wellness she brings a high level of experience to succeed in the event she plans. Karen Z Women's Connection Group
Karen Z
Women's Connection Group
Ken Platt
A Business Partner going the extra mile. Since our first meeting I have become a big fan of Jill and recognize her as a superior business partner. Yes the products and functionality she sold us where good but Jill herself was the reason we did business with her firm. Jill listened to our needs and limitations, interviewed our user base to gain perspective (her idea), provided data and ideas in preparation of the ROI for the business case, and personally organized and was on hand for the deployment. Throughout the lifecycle of the service she remained involved, ensured our account ...
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Ken Platt
Chief Technology Officer 2009
A Business Partner going the extra mile. Since our first meeting I have become a big fan of Jill and recognize her as a superior business partner. Yes the products and functionality she sold us where good but Jill herself was the reason we did business with her firm. Jill listened to our needs and limitations, interviewed our user base to gain perspective (her idea), provided data and ideas in preparation of the ROI for the business case, and personally organized and was on hand for the deployment. Throughout the lifecycle of the service she remained involved, ensured our account was serviced, resolved billing issues, and at one point identified refinance opportunities that reduced our costs. When Jill arrived for a meeting I was always impressed by how well prepared she was and in reflection, although she worked for someone else, she had become a member of my team and I believed she worked in the best interest of us the customer. It is always a pleasure to have Jill in our office. Ken Plat Chief Technology Officer 2009
Ken Platt
Chief Technology Officer 2009
Ada W
Last July, I had the pleasure of attending one of the Brave Heart Workshop retreats held in Nashville, Tennessee. The organizer was Jill Reynolds. The facilitator was Dr. Laura Wood. It was a great experience. I got to experience Drama Therapy. It was an unforgettable experience, truly. Not only did I get a chance to visit Nashville, the city of music, but also, and more importantly, I got to experience Drama Therapy and heal my childhood traumas. Jill was super responsible and caring. She helped to arrange hotels, flights, transportation, meals and took us to concerts. She had an eye ...
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Ada W
From China an exchange Student with Masters Degree in Therapy
Last July, I had the pleasure of attending one of the Brave Heart Workshop retreats held in Nashville, Tennessee. The organizer was Jill Reynolds. The facilitator was Dr. Laura Wood. It was a great experience. I got to experience Drama Therapy. It was an unforgettable experience, truly. Not only did I get a chance to visit Nashville, the city of music, but also, and more importantly, I got to experience Drama Therapy and heal my childhood traumas. Jill was super responsible and caring. She helped to arrange hotels, flights, transportation, meals and took us to concerts. She had an eye to discover talents. Because Dr. Wood was one of the most intuitive and skilled therapists as I discovered over the course of the weekend. The healing work was transformative and fun at the same time. The combination of performance and healing really made it much less intimidating and more spontaneous. I truly enjoyed the workshop and recommends it to anyone who has an interest in personal healing or psychology in general.   Ada W From China an exchange Student with Masters Degree in Therapy
Ada W
From China an exchange Student with Masters Degree in Therapy
Peggy Feller
In a short amount of time Jill was able to set up the office, train front desk staff to give effective site tours, learn the systems and grew the Group segment by 28% and the preferred Transient by 12%. Diligent, detail-oriented, and persistent are qualities she exemplifies. Great with customers and follow-through. Peggy Feller Reg. Dir. Sales & Marketing at Hostmark Hospitality Group 2012
Peggy Feller
Reg. Dir. Sales & Marketing at Hostmark Hospitality Group 2012
In a short amount of time Jill was able to set up the office, train front desk staff to give effective site tours, learn the systems and grew the Group segment by 28% and the preferred Transient by 12%. Diligent, detail-oriented, and persistent are qualities she exemplifies. Great with customers and follow-through. Peggy Feller Reg. Dir. Sales & Marketing at Hostmark Hospitality Group 2012
Peggy Feller
Reg. Dir. Sales & Marketing at Hostmark Hospitality Group 2012

Relax. Refocus. Recharge.

De-Stress. Relax. Refocus. Recharge.

Hope.

How do you define hope?

  1. To cherish a desire with anticipation: to want something to happen or be true (hopes for a promotion; hoping for the best: I hope so). 
  2. Archaic: trust. 
  3. To desire with expectation of obtainment or fulfillment. (I hope she remembers. I hope to be invited).

What though is Biblical Hope?
“Hope” is commonly used to mean a wish: its strength is the strength of the person’s desire. But in the Bible “Hope” is the confident expectation of what God has promised and its strength is in His faithfulness.

What does Hope mean to you?

Health.

How do you define health?
Health is a state of physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.

What are the 3 main components of health?
The health triangle is a measure of the different aspects of health. The health triangle consists of Physical, Social, and Mental Health.

How is Biblical Health defined?
There are seven areas of the abundant life that Christ refers to in John 10:10, and you need to take care of them all to experience true Biblical Health: Spiritual, Physical, Mental, Emotional, Financial, Occupational, and Social. Each area of your life is connected to all the others.

What does Health mean to you?

Healing.

How is Healing defined?
1a. To make free from injury or disease; to make sound or whole heal a wound,

b: to make well again: to restore to health heal the sick.

2a: to cause (an undesirable condition) to be overcome mend the troubles.

What does the Bible say about healing?
“Heal me, Lord, and I will be healed; save me and I will be saved, for you are the one I praise.” “And the people all tried to touch Him, because power was coming from Him and healing them all.” “But I will restore you to health and heal your wounds, declares the Lord.” Spiritual healing can be defined as the direct interaction between one individual (the healer)

What does Healing mean to you personally?

Tammy Trent

Tammy Trent is a gifted communicator who draws her audience close with her contagious humor and fun, energetic personality and yet, the sincerity of her heart and wisdom of life experience is woven through the very words she speaks and sings. Tammy has been ministering to audiences around the world through her music and speaking since signing her first record deal in 1995.  And in early 2023 she became the new co-host on LIFE Today TV alongside co-host Randy Robison. She says, “One of my greatest privileges on this journey of hope is to be able to remind others that we can never interpret our numbness as God's absence in our lives.   Website | Facebook

Dr. Marina Hofman

Marina Hofman (Ph.D.) is the award-winning author of Women in The Bible Small Group Bible Study, a professor at Palm Beach Atlantic University, and a regular media guest providing biblical perspectives of current issues and women's issues. Dr. Hofman has inspired millions with her incredible testimony of God’s redemption and healing and the hope she has in Christ. As a survivor of a life-threatening trauma and one who has overcome debilitating limitations, Marina is passionate about sharing how trials can lead to triumph. She brings an engaging message of hope and resilience in these challenging and uncertain times by highlighting examples of women in the Bible and sharing her personal testimony.

Website | Instagram

Mandy Farrow

Mandy Farrow is the Publisher of Branson Tri-Lakes News with 23 years of experience helping business owners grow their customer base. Specializing in digital and print marketing. Over 23 years she has worked in 3 states and for 7 newspaper companies. Mandy and her husband, Frankie, live in Hollister, MO, and they share a blended family of 5 children and 4 grandchildren. Mandy serves on the Junior Auxiliary of the Taney County Board and the Hollister Schools Foundation Board.  "Gabby" as she is called by her grandchildren is the title, she treasures the most. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends and she loves to travel.

WebsiteFacebook

Sara Forhetz

Sara Forhetz is a speaker, journalist, and podcaster. She spent 17 years as an Emmy Award-winning television news reporter and anchor. Sara now speaks full-time all over the world. Her travels often take her to Africa, where she speaks at open tent revivals. Sara is also a wife and a homeschooled mother of three kids, ages 10, 12, and 14. She loves swimming, biking, and running and often competes in triathlons. But most of all, Sara is a fervent follower of Jesus Christ. She speaks to leadership conferences and churches across the country and around the globe, urging people to be bold in their faith and to mentor someone. She and her husband, Ethan Forhetz, have been named one of the most influential couples in Southwest Missouri, and have been recognized as such by multiple publications. Sara was also honored as a “30 under 30” award recipient for her work in the Springfield, Missouri community.

  WebsiteFacebook

Tina Richards

Tina Richards is an award-winning artist, realtor, mother of 3, host of multiple podcasts, including Be Encouraged, and a ministry conference speaker to the nations. Her unique ministry style blends humorous life stories with uplifting messages that inspire and encourage those that are struggling with life.  Tina and her husband Eric graduated from Rhema Bible College and embarked on a 27-year ministry adventure that was tragically cut short in July when Eric was killed in an automobile accident. Six days later Tina and her daughter Liberty traveled to the Philippines where she inspired thousands with encouraging messages on having faith through adversity.

  Facebook

Carolyn Boss

Carolyn Boss was born in Maryland, is a realtor, the youngest of 8 kids, a twin, a pastor’s kid, and has a love for good food. Carolyn is known as “Carolyn from Maryland” or “Property Boss”. She has an outstanding perspective in life and a love for community.   She has served on several national boards. She currently serves on the Branson School Board of Education.  She loves to bike the trails, cruise Table Rock Lake on a boat, or just sit and enjoy a good meal with friends.   She loves the Lord with all her heart, mind, and soul and reflects the fact that “Jesus is her CEO.”  In business, we might not know the exact future of trends, commodities, or real estate, but we do know the ONE who does!!  That’s all we need.   WebsiteLinkedIn

Mary Starr

Mary Starr is a Christian, conservative constitutionalist who is passionate about giving back to her local community and has served on community Boards both past and present. Her passions as an entrepreneur included founding a value-driven insurance agency that grew over the years, with help from a team of professionals providing optimum customer service. The agency offered group benefits, commercial insurance, and personal insurance. The agency was been endorsed by numerous trade associations, which put Mary in contact with business owners in a variety of industries. Throughout her career of 30+ years, Mary was a multi-year Leader's Club qualifier for Sales excellence in group benefits. Mary developed true friendships with many clients over the years, as building relationships was simply one of her core values. Integrity, respect, excellence, and communication were her other core values. Collectively, these values were key to her many years of success. An additional entrepreneurial endeavor has been serving in the hospitality industry. Mary is a professional Airbnb host, providing guests with a mountain retreat with amazing mountain views, a great location yet peaceful & tranquil. Applying the core values from her insurance agency experience has been key to earning SuperHost status with Airbnb. She enjoys hosting a variety of families and business travelers in her Airbnb retreat. Mary enjoys outdoor activities such as biking, hiking, and skiing. She and her husband are active in their local church; Mary is a member of the Church Council and Praise & Worship team. They share their idyllic country home with three dogs. Abundant wildlife also brings additional joy to their lives.   Facebook | LinkedIn

Sue Detweiler

Sue Detweiler serves as Executive Director of Life Bridge Global, a Christian nonprofit ministry that equips individuals, local churches, and international communities through events, training, and creating online media resources, broadcasts, and courses.

Sue hosts Healing Rain, one of the fastest-growing broadcasts on Charisma Podcast Network, listened to in 135 nations. She holds a Master of Divinity degree from Vanderbilt University and is a doctoral student at Global Awakening Theological Seminary. She is part of Randy Clark’s Global Awakening Network, and part of the Supernatural Global Network led by Apostle Guillermo Maldanado. She received the highest recognition from the former president of the Foursquare Church, Jack Hayford, for leading Life School of Ministry, a three-year Bible training institute in Nashville that grew to five hundred students. Sue is a pioneer woman pastor who began preaching at the age of 19. With her husband, Wayne, she planted and co-pastored their first church at the age of 22. With a strong prophetic teaching gift, Sue has equipped men and women to become pastors, evangelists, and missionaries to the nations. She is an international speaker and travels to Central America, South America, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. She is also a popular speaker who shares her heart and wisdom internationally on issues related to marriage, family, women, prayer, leadership, and ministry. Sue’s next book Healing Rain: Immersing Yourself in Christ’s Love to Find Wholeness of Mind, Body, and Heart will be available July 2023 from Chosen Books. 

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Louie Michael

Of the variety of titles Louie Michael carries, like Entertainer, Author, Speaker, Realtor, “Cheerleader of People” would be his favorite. Louie has spent over 35 years in the Entertainment business from his early days as an Elvis Presley tribute artist in the early nineties, being a ringmaster in the circus, to working with groups like the Backstreet Boys and N’Sync. Louie also works as a successful Realtor, a volunteer Chaplain for the Fire department. He loves working to encourage people to LIVE, through his Non-Profit, Choosing to Live, Inc. Despite all these various passions, careers, and talents, Louie has something that most observers would not ever see or know, until he speaks about it. Suffering from depression, anxiety, PTSD and having suicidal thoughts at various times throughout his life. Louie’s goal today is to encourage others with the same or similar feelings, to fight for another day. Do whatever you can to make it to another tomorrow where things can and often change for the better. “Never waive the white Flag”!! NEVER give up, it is not an option. Website Facebook

Jill Reynolds

Using her background in Meeting and Event Planning, Jill creates amazing conferences weaving authentic up-close stories that connect Hope. Health. and Healing. Jill is known for her Podcast, “The Connection Show” where she helps leaders connect their life stories with who they are today. She is a #1 International Best-Selling Author in a collaborative book, “Fiercely Faithful” where she shares her story called “The Essence of Humility.” Jill shows an audience how to reconnect with what matters most in life so they can be set free from shame, embarrassment, and humiliation. At 28, Jill’s life was a train wreck. Addicted to Crack Cocaine, Alcohol, and down to 97 pounds, she lost her job in San Diego and moved back to Chicago after she had an encounter with God. She knew her life was hopeless; her health was a disaster, and she had no idea what to do next. Everything felt impossible. But she showed up week after week at church and prayed to God to help her and to give her the resiliency to recover. Jill believed that doing the hard work of digging into her story and connecting the dots of her traumatic childhood would bring her the Hope. Health and Healing she desired. The work and resiliency paid off. Today she is passionate about spreading Hope. Health. and Healing to everyone she meets. Never give up. Connect the dots in your stories and they will set you free.

Cynthia Thomas

Cynthia J. (Cindy) Thomas, a Kansas native with Arkansas Ozarks family roots, has lived in Missouri for nearly 30 years. She worked for the U.S. Missions division of the Assemblies of God before leaving full-time employment to write as a freelancer and care for her father, a WWII veteran, until his passing in 2021. Now, Cindy blogs and writes ministry features for the Assemblies of God AG News, Assemblies of God World Missions, and other faith-based publications. She also writes for Branson (Missouri) Globe. Along with her weekly “Reflections” column, her favorite stories to write are about local nonprofits/ministries and veterans. Cindy enjoys reading, gardening, and driving rural backroads. Her husband, Philip, teaches band at Forsyth, Missouri. They also love spending time with their adult children and 3 adorable grandchildren.   Website | Website

Julie Hedenborg

Julie Hedenborg found herself inside an ambulance with a life-threatening injury, asking those soul-searching, end-of-life questions on July 3, 2015. Did she live a life that glorified God?  Did she use her God-given gifts to make a difference in the lives of others?  She was blessed with an undeserved miracle and a second chance.  A spiritually transformative experience became the catalyst for a new calling. Julie is the creator and host of the “Everyday Miracles” Podcast and is passionate about sharing powerful testimonies that glorify God and inspire hope and faith.  She has witnessed some miraculous things in her personal life, and in her nursing career of over 20 years, and loves to share that Jesus is very real, and still performing miracles.  She worked for two years in a Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit, then pursued her Master of Science Degree and enjoyed a 16-year career as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist.  In 2009, she was recognized by the Mecklenburg Times as a Healthcare Hero. She is also an author and her book, Picture Perfect, is a message about finding identity in Christ is helping readers to find breakthroughs. My prayer in the ambulance was that God would allow me to share him with just one more person. He certainly is answering that prayer! All glory to Him! Everyday Miracles Podcast is available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, and iHeartRadio, and has been downloaded around the globe (over 2 million across all platforms and growing)! Website | Facebook

Dr. Brittany Wright

Dr. Brittany Wright is the Director of Therapy Services at the Healing Arts Center in Branson, MO. Dr. Wright originally obtained her degree in biochemistry from Evangel University prior to pursuing her passion for physical therapy and as a movement specialist at the doctorate level. Dr. Wright is a graduate of Southwest Baptist University in Bolivar, MO, where she obtained her Doctor of Physical Therapy in 2016. Dr. Wright joined Healing Arts Center in Branson, MO in 2018 from a multi-specialty hospital in Springfield, MO where she performed both orthopedic and pediatric therapy services. Dr. Wright began the development of her Branson practice to cover a wide variety of knowledge and passions about the mechanics of the human body. In 2019, she pursued specialization in functional movement and dry needling to continue to expand services to the Branson community. Dr. Wright is known as a “hands-on” manual therapist with a “tool bag” of options for a variety of patient care. This “tool bag” consists of LSVT BIG, Myofascial release, IASTM, dry needling, pediatric care, and more. Dr. Brittany Wright is married to Keith Wright, a Springfield police officer, and has two darling young daughters. Brittany brings competitive sports knowledge from her collegiate volleyball experience at Evangel University. Brittany developed a love and passion for female athletics and most specifically, the development of the total aspect of the player beyond the court. Brittany has participated in the player development position for the last two years. Brittany continues to coach volleyball at the Community Sports Development Program. This program, backed by the 1992 Olympic setter Lori Endicott-Vandersnick, has promoted 10 athletes to the national tournament this year which will be hosted in Chicago in July of 2023. Website | Facebook

Melissa Garner

Sometimes It Takes a Mountain by the Crabb Family, is often referred to as Melissa Garner’s life song. After many traumatic events through childhood, she found herself leading a life down a path that would eventually lead her to serve time in prison on three occasions. A near tragedy in 2020 turned her life around. It took a mountain to make those life changes, and now she leads a ministry called Prison to Ministry. Facebook

Brenda Ring Wood

Brenda Wood has been an entrepreneur since high school. Brenda has seen some hard times and has survived Cancer and other life struggles. She is a biologist who turned her challenges into a need for change. She is an artist, a speaker, and an author that made the necessary changes to achieve the success that others only dream of. Success isn't about money. It's about overcoming challenges and knowing true happiness. Stepping up to be the person you want to be, changing your actions and thoughts, and encouraging others to do it with you.

Synova Carnell

After a decade in the world of true crime & victim advocacy, Synova Cantrell has taken her 10,000 hours of study & entered the self-help field. She’s a certified NLP Life Coach and the owner of Synova’s Simply Biz. She is an author & an award-winning crime writer with over 300 cases under her belt. One of her books was even endorsed by a retired FBI Agent! To top it all off, a flag was flown over the Capitol in Washington D.C. to honor her cold case work!!! She was recently featured on a Discovery Channel documentary. Synova’s life coaching includes elements of NLP, practical psychology, biblical principles, and biochemistry.! Now, Synova is using her study and experience to inspire, motivate and educate her audience. You can move from Victim to Vitality, and Synova’s life is living proof.