Leading For Wellness
Welcome to Leading For Wellness, the podcast where we explore the intersection of business success and holistic health. Join Liesl Bernard, the CEO of Kalon Executive Search, as she talks with visionary entrepreneurs and executives who are transforming the wellness industry. Subscribe to Leading For Wellness and join our community of wellness leaders today.
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Episodes
Monday Dec 15, 2025
Monday Dec 15, 2025
David Foreman, RPh, widely recognized as The Herbal Pharmacist®, is a pioneer in the natural health and wellness industry. As a registered pharmacist, he has dedicated his career to bridging the gap between conventional medicine and natural healing, championing an integrative approach to health. With a passion for empowering individuals to take charge of their well-being through natural solutions, Foreman has become a highly sought-after speaker, author, and media personality in the fields of herbal and nutritional medicine.
A Journey from Traditional Pharmacy to Natural Health
David Foreman began his professional journey in the pharmaceutical field, earning his pharmacy degree from the University of South Carolina. His early career was grounded in traditional pharmacy, where he gained firsthand experience with the advantages and limitations of prescription medications. While working as a pharmacist, Foreman developed an interest in natural medicine and recognized the potential of holistic approaches to complement conventional treatments. This realization prompted him to shift his career towards natural health, paving the way for his future as The Herbal Pharmacist®.
Foreman advocates for the responsible use of dietary supplements, herbal remedies, and lifestyle changes to enhance overall health. He believes that true wellness is achieved through a balanced approach that incorporates proper nutrition, physical activity, stress management, and supplementation when necessary. His philosophy revolves around four pillars of health: Diet, Exercise, Spirituality, and Supplementation—a framework that has guided his work and teachings for decades.
A Leading Voice in Herbal and Nutritional Medicine
With his distinctive background in both pharmacy and natural health, Foreman has made a name for himself as a trusted authority in the wellness community. He has written extensively about the benefits of natural ingredients and has contributed to various health publications. His skill in translating complex scientific information into easily understandable knowledge has made him a sought-after educator and speaker at conferences, health expos, and industry events around the world.
As an advocate for evidence-based natural medicine, Foreman frequently collaborates with leading supplement manufacturers, research institutions, and health organizations. He has played a key role in educating both healthcare professionals and consumers about the latest advancements in herbal and nutritional science. His expertise covers a broad spectrum of health topics, including cognitive health, cardiovascular wellness, immune support, joint health, and active nutrition.
Media Presence and Public Outreach
David Foreman’s impact reaches well beyond the lecture hall. As a media personality, he has appeared on various television and radio programs, sharing his insights with a wide audience. His talent for simplifying complex health concepts has garnered him a dedicated following, establishing him as a reliable source for those seeking natural health solutions.
Besides his media appearances, Foreman is a prolific writer. His blogs, articles, and educational content offer practical advice on how to incorporate herbal and nutritional strategies into daily life. Through his website, social media platforms, and public engagements, he continues to reach thousands seeking alternative and complementary ways to enhance their health.
Advancing the Science of Natural Health
Foreman is not only a proponent of natural medicine but also an advocate for advancing scientific research in the field. He collaborates closely with industry leaders to ensure the quality, efficacy, and safety of herbal and nutritional products. By remaining at the forefront of emerging research and trends, he helps shape the future of the natural health industry.
One of Foreman’s main missions is to teach healthcare practitioners how to integrate natural solutions into conventional medicine. He believes that a holistic approach to health, supported by scientific validation, can result in better patient outcomes. His work has shaped a growing movement toward integrative healthcare, where natural and pharmaceutical approaches function together for optimal well-being.
A Vision for the Future
As The Herbal Pharmacist®, David is committed to his mission of promoting natural health and empowering individuals to make informed choices about their well-being. His vision is to continue educating, inspiring, and advocating for the responsible use of herbal and nutritional therapies. Through his speaking engagements, writing, and collaborations with industry leaders, he seeks to make natural health more accessible and widely accepted.
With decades of experience in both pharmacy and natural medicine, Foreman serves as a bridge between two worlds, providing a unique perspective that resonates with both healthcare professionals and consumers. His steadfast commitment to enhancing health through natural means positions him as a pioneer in the field, and his efforts continue to shape the future of integrative wellness.
Whether he is speaking at global health conferences, writing educational content, or appearing in media segments, David Foreman continues to be a passionate advocate for natural health solutions. His legacy embodies education, empowerment, and transformation—helping people lead healthier, more vibrant lives through the synergy of nature and science.
Herbal Pharmacist Media provides science-driven content, branding, and educational media for the natural health, nutraceutical, and functional-food industries. We create high-impact blogs, videos, articles, presentations, social content, and strategic messaging that translate complex scientific research into consumer-friendly education and B2B marketing assets. Our mission is to empower brands, formulators, and consumers with clear, credible, and engaging natural-health communication.
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In this engaging podcast episode, Liesl Bernard interviews David Foreman, a pioneer in the natural health and wellness industry. David shares his journey from being a traditional pharmacist to becoming an herbal pharmacist, emphasizing the importance of innovation in the nutraceutical industry, particularly through technology. He discusses the significance of women's health, the four pillars of health, and the role of spirituality in overall well-being. The conversation also explores the impact of AI on personalized nutrition and David's passion for travel and cultural experiences. He concludes with his aspirations for the future, including launching an animal health division and integrating more AI into his work.
Chapters:
00:00 The Journey from Pharmacist to Herbal Pharmacist
02:52 Current Role and Industry Insights
05:53 Global Perspectives on Nutraceuticals
08:51 Innovation and Technology in Health
12:04 Women’s Health: An Underserved Market
14:55 The Four Pillars of Health
20:04 Spirituality and Emotional Health in Wellness
22:46 The Future of AI in Personalized Nutrition
27:59 Embracing AI: Opportunities and Challenges
30:43 Traveling the World: Cultural Experiences and Insights
39:17 Future Aspirations: Expanding Horizons in Health and Wellness
Contact David Foreman:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/herbalpharmacist/
david@herbalpharmacist.com
https://herbalpharmacist.com/
Contact Liesl Bernard:
liesl@leadingforwellness.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/
www.leadingforwellness.com
Tuesday Nov 18, 2025
Tuesday Nov 18, 2025
Paul is a passionate and motivational leader with results-oriented entrepreneurial vision and a unique ability to bring great value to every relationship and business opportunity. A former native of NYC, Paul has a 40+ year history and experience with start-ups, executive management, the organic food industry, two-term Mayor, Police Commissioner, filmmaker, and a national sales and marketing director for Mount Sinai Hospital in NYC. He currently leads the team@ Joyful Humans & Blue Toad® developing microdose delivery formats, MGBA support nutrient-rich supplements, protein bars, tinctures, powders, drinks, chocolate, etc., all utilizing Nootropics, Ayurvedic Botanicals, Hemp/ Cannabis/ Mushroom products.
Prior to creating Joyful & the Toad, Paul was the Chief Innovation Officer for Stanley Brothers Cannabis (founders of Charlotte's Web), he founded the country's premiere co-manufacturer of functional-foods, GOOD SUPERFOODS® (winner of NUTRACON & SSW Editors Choice) and Superfood Innovation Lab® where he innovated for iconic clients such as; USANA, Melaleuca, NuSkin, NewWays, Young Living, Scentsy, Modere, Dr. Mercola, Onnit Nutrition, Walmart, Garden of Life, Kroger, Labrada Nutrition, and many more. Paul also founded the country’s first organic vending distribution company (NextGen Vending®), and developed that industry’s first PLA-based biodegradable water bottle (Earthpure Organics®).
His beautiful family, core values, sense of community, and a powerful work ethic inspire Paul to be his best everyday
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In this conversation, Liesl Bernard interviews Paul Frantalisi, a serial entrepreneur in the functional food space, about his journey from battling chronic Lyme disease to founding Joyful Humans, a brand focused on addressing metabolic health. Paul shares his experiences with alternative healing methods, the challenges of building a successful chocolate company, and the impact of a health crisis that led him to prioritize wellness. He discusses the importance of gut health, the role of psychedelics in his healing journey, and the innovative products Joyful Humans offers to promote homeostasis and balance in the body.
Save 25% off with CODE: Leading25
https://www.joyfulhumans.com/
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Paul Frantelisi and Joyful Humans
01:42 The Journey into Functional Foods
04:32 From Struggles to Success: Building a Chocolate Company
08:33 Navigating Challenges and Innovations in the Industry
10:16 The Impact of COVID-19 on Business
11:26 Health Crisis: A Wake-Up Call
13:57 Healing Through Lifestyle Changes
16:25 Exploring Spiritual Practices and Microdosing
19:54 The Science of Happiness and Wellness
21:02 The High of Running and Healing Journeys
22:08 Inspiration Behind Joyful Humans
24:06 The Power of the Name 'Joyful'
25:39 Understanding Metabolic Dysfunction
28:34 Biohacking for Health and Balance
31:21 Spiritual Practices and Psychedelics
34:37 The Vision and Strategy for Joyful Humans
Contact Paul Frantellizzi:
https://www.joyfulhumans.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulfrantellizzi/
https://www.instagram.com/joyful.humans/
Contact Liesl Bernard:
liesl@leadingforwellness.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/
www.leadingforwellness.com
Tuesday Nov 04, 2025
Tuesday Nov 04, 2025
In this conversation, Ari Gordon discusses the evolution of his company, Like and Likes, which helps brands grow on TikTok and Meta. He shares insights on the differences between the two platforms, the importance of effective content creation, and the costs associated with advertising on TikTok.
Ari also emphasizes the role of influencer marketing and the necessity of having a strategic approach to social media marketing, especially for CPG brands. The discussion highlights the changing landscape of consumer behavior and the growing importance of digital marketing in driving sales.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Like and Likes
02:38 Understanding TikTok vs. Meta for CPG Brands
06:01 Navigating Advertising Costs on TikTok
10:54 The Backend of TikTok: A Competitor to Amazon
13:37 Influencer Marketing Strategies on TikTok
17:39 Agency vs. In-House Marketing: Finding the Right Fit
20:21 The Evolving Landscape of Consumer Behavior
21:09 Finding and Working with Influencers
Contact Ari Gordon:
https://likeandlikes.ai/
Ari@likandlikes.ai
Instagram: arialgordon
Contact Liesl Bernard:
liesl@leadingforwellness.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/
www.leadingforwellness.com
Wednesday Oct 15, 2025
Wednesday Oct 15, 2025
Dr. Sandra Carter, M.A., MPH, Ph.D. is a pioneer in preventative medicine, sports performance, and integrative health — and a visionary entrepreneur who transformed the functional mushroom industry. After decades in public health and disease prevention, Dr. Carter founded M2 Ingredients at the age of 55, bringing scientific rigor and mission-driven innovation to a field on the cusp of mainstream awareness.
As Founder and Chief Visionary Officer of the largest functional mushroom supplier in the Western Hemisphere, Dr. Carter built M2 Ingredients with a clear conviction: while others in the industry debated marketing semantics, she focused firmly on science, research, and measurable impact. She anticipated the noise that would inevitably follow the mushroom boom — and knew that real data and clinical research would be the most powerful differentiator.
Under her leadership, M2 has invested heavily in scientific validation, assembling the largest team of scientists in the industry and leading research on mushroom-derived compounds, gut health, immune support, and cognitive function. This unwavering commitment to science has positioned M2 as the go-to partner for brands seeking integrity, innovation, and efficacy.
In parallel, Dr. Carter also built a national consumer brand — now sold in Whole Foods, Sam’s Club, Walmart, and Target — helping bring the benefits of functional mushrooms to millions. Widely recognized as a category architect, she continues to lead with clarity, compassion, and a steadfast belief in the power of fungi, food, and evidence-based wellness.
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In this conversation, Liesl Bernard interviews Sandra Carter, founder of Om Superfoods and M2 Ingredients, discussing her journey from a successful career in preventive medicine to becoming an entrepreneur in the functional mushroom industry. Sandra shares key milestones in her business, the importance of focus and discipline, and the challenges she faced, including overcoming imposter syndrome. She emphasizes the significance of mentorship, community, and data-driven research in building a successful brand. The discussion also covers the health benefits of mushrooms, the future of the industry, and Sandra's personal practices for maintaining balance and intuition.
Chapters
00:00 Founding Success: Milestones in Entrepreneurship
02:52 Transitioning Careers: From Medicine to Entrepreneurship
05:54 Navigating Challenges: Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
08:49 Vision and Discipline: Keys to Business Success
11:48 Building a Brand: The Journey of Om Superfoods
14:50 Sales Strategy: The Hands-On Approach
17:41 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Gaining Confidence
20:50 Mentorship and Community: Learning from Others
23:36 Data vs. Vision: Balancing Insights for Future Growth
25:24 Articulating Confidence in Ideas
26:25 The Impressive Mushroom Facility
29:55 Health Benefits of Mushrooms
34:12 The Future of Mushroom Products
38:44 Cultivating Intuition and Connection
43:20 Personal Growth and Lifelong Learning
45:28 Finding Purpose in Life
Contact Sandra Carter:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandra-carter-3b6b3241/
https://ommushrooms.com/
https://m2ingredients.com/
Contact Liesl Bernard:
liesl@leadingforwellness.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/
www.leadingforwellness.com
Monday Aug 25, 2025
Monday Aug 25, 2025
In this episode, Liesl Bernard interviews Rafea Naffa, PhD bioanalytical chemist, Scientific Advisor for AIDP, about the critical role of magnesium in human health.
They discuss the importance of magnesium for various bodily functions, its bioavailability, and the different forms of magnesium supplements available. Rafea emphasizes the need for daily magnesium intake, the symptoms of deficiency, and the impact of magnesium on brain health and hormonal balance.
The conversation also touches on recent research and clinical studies that highlight the benefits of magnesium supplementation, particularly in improving cognitive performance and sleep quality.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Magnesium and Its Importance
02:00 The Role of Magnesium in the Body
05:58 Bioavailability and Sources of Magnesium
10:47 Understanding Magnesium Forms and Their Functions
13:01 Magnesium's Impact on Brain Health
16:00 Symptoms of Magnesium Deficiency
21:41 Magnesium and Hormonal Balance
25:40 Research and Clinical Studies on Magnesium
29:40 Daily Magnesium Intake and Recommendations
38:26 Personal Insights and Recommendations on Magnesium
Contact Rafea Naffa:
https://aidp.com/
rafea@aidp.com
Contact Liesl Bernard:
liesl@leadingforwellness.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/
www.leadingforwellness.com
Wednesday Jul 23, 2025
Wednesday Jul 23, 2025
In this conversation, Liesl Bernard interviews Tom Aarts, a leading authority in the global wellness industry. Tom shares his journey in the nutrition sector, his passion for mental health, and his proud accomplishments, including the founding of the Nutrition Business Journal and the NBJ Summit. He discusses the importance of personalized nutrition, the impact of AI, and the growing trend of biohacking. Tom also reflects on the political landscape's influence on the wellness industry and shares insights on successful strategies for companies. He emphasizes the significance of mindset and spirituality in health and concludes with his aspirations for a legacy that contributes to solving major health issues like Alzheimer's.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Tom Aarts and His Journey
02:59 The Importance of Nutrition and Mental Health
06:05 Proud Accomplishments in the Wellness Industry
08:48 Navigating Mergers and Acquisitions in Wellness
12:09 The Future of Personalized Nutrition and AI
14:59 Biohacking and Wellness Trends
17:53 Political Landscape and Its Impact on Wellness
20:40 Keys to Success in the Wellness Industry
23:49 Personal Health Journey and Longevity Practices
27:03 Mindset, Meditation, and Mental Health
29:52 Legacy and Future Aspirations
Contact Tom Aarts:
https://www.nbjsummit.com/
Contact Liesl Bernard:
liesl@leadingforwellness.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/
www.leadingforwellness.com
Tuesday Jul 08, 2025
Tuesday Jul 08, 2025
Lisa Odenweller is a pioneering wellness entrepreneur and the Founder & CEO of Kroma Wellness, a modern functional nutrition brand dedicated to simplifying healthy living for busy, high-performing lifestyles. With over two decades of experience in the health and wellness industry, Lisa has committed her career to making premium, science-backed nutrition accessible, delicious, and effortless.
Before launching Kroma, Lisa founded Beaming, one of Southern California’s most influential wellness café brands, renowned for its clean nutrition and culinary creativity. After successfully scaling Beaming into a multi-location business and exiting in 2018, she turned her focus to addressing a deeper problem: the overwhelming, flavorless, and unsustainable nature of many wellness routines. With Kroma, she introduced a first-of-its-kind 5-Day Whole Body Reset and a range of instant, shelf-stable, adaptogen-rich products that enable people to nourish themselves with joy, ease, and purpose—anytime, anywhere. Lisa’s ability to merge functional nutrition with indulgent flavor and modern lifestyle design has established her as a category innovator and a leading voice in the next era of wellness.
Beyond Kroma, Lisa is a mom of 3 grown kids, a passionate mentor to female founders, a frequent speaker on health and entrepreneurship, and a tireless advocate for making wellness more intuitive, empowering, and enjoyable
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In this episode of the Leading for Wellness podcast, Liesl Bernard interviews Lisa Odenweller, founder of Kroma Wellness and Beaming, discussing her journey in the wellness industry, the challenges she faced, and the lessons learned from adversity. Lisa shares insights on self-worth, the importance of energy in business, and her innovative approach to nutrition with Kroma. The conversation emphasizes the significance of community support, personal growth, and the unique challenges female entrepreneurs face in fundraising. Lisa also highlights her daily rituals for maintaining positivity and energy.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Wellness and Entrepreneurship
03:06 The Journey of Beaming: A Superfood Cafe
05:56 Lessons from Adversity: Overcoming Challenges
08:51 Self-Reflection and Healing: The Path to Growth
11:51 Building Self-Worth and Confidence
14:54 The Importance of Energy in Business
17:38 Fundraising Insights for Female Entrepreneurs
20:54 Creating a Nutrition System: The Chroma Brand
23:30 Daily Rituals for Energy and Positivity
26:34 The Power of Community and Support
29:22 Innovations and Future Vision for Chroma
32:36 Conclusion and Special Offers
Contact Lisa Odenweller:
https://kromawellness.com/
https://www.instagram.com/kromawellness/
Contact Liesl Bernard:
liesl@leadingforwellness.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/
www.leadingforwellness.com
Tuesday Jun 17, 2025
Tuesday Jun 17, 2025
Ari Raz is a distinguished entrepreneur and executive in the natural foods industry, renowned for his leadership and innovative contributions.
Before joining The Coconut Cult in August 2021, Ari co-founded Once Upon a Farm, a company specializing in cold-pressed baby food, where he held the positions of CEO and later President from 2015 to 2021. Once Upon a Farm is currently on a $250M revenue run rate and valued at over $1B.
His tenure was marked by significant growth and the establishment of the brand as a trusted name in children's nutrition.
Under Ari's leadership, The Coconut Cult has grown from a $2.7M annual revenue business to a $36M revenue run rate actual and $57M revenue run rate if capacity existed to fill all orders.
His strategic vision continues to propel The Coconut Cult toward new heights in the plant-based yogurt market.
He is also the President of Naturally San Diego, a nonprofit organization and business network that fosters sustainability and responsible business practices, stimulates conscious growth, supports entrepreneurship, and develops leadership in the San Diego natural products community.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Ari Raz and His Journey
01:01 Inspiration from Family and Early Experiences
05:45 The Birth of Once Upon a Farm
10:51 Branding and Marketing in the Food Industry
15:09 The Role of Jennifer Garner in Once Upon a Farm
24:12 Commitment to Growth
26:00 Navigating Leadership Transitions
28:42 The Impact of COVID-19 on Business
30:51 Manifestation and Intuition in Entrepreneurship
33:54 Building Naturally San Diego
40:22 Personal Biohacks for Entrepreneurs
48:05 Mindfulness and Global Awareness
Contact Ari Raz:
president@naturallysandiego.org
https://naturallysandiego.org/
https://thecoconutcult.com/
Contact Liesl Bernard:
liesl@kalonstaffing.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/
www.leadingforwellness.com
Wednesday Jun 11, 2025
Wednesday Jun 11, 2025
In this inspiring episode, Liesl Bernard interviews Susan Buckwalter Hartman, co-founder of Recoup Beverage, discussing her journey from corporate marketing to entrepreneurship, the unique aspects of Recoup's products, and the personal stories that inspired their creation.
They explore the challenges of building a brand in a competitive beverage market, balancing family life with entrepreneurship, and the future plans for Recoup, including their recognition in the industry and commitment to regenerative organic practices.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Recoup Drinks and Susan's Background
02:12 The Leap to Entrepreneurship
04:07 What Sets Recoup Apart
09:10 The Unique Ingredients of Recoup
12:42 Challenges in Building a Brand
15:48 Balancing Entrepreneurship and Family Life
18:46 Future Plans for Recoup
22:37 Recognition and Industry Impact
Contact Susan Buckwalter Hartman:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-buckwalter-hartman-704a19a/
https://www.instagram.com/recoupwellness/
https://www.recoupwellness.com/
Connect with Liesl Bernard:
liesl@kalonstaffing.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/
www.leadingforwellness.com
Thursday May 22, 2025
Thursday May 22, 2025
Madelyn Hadley is the founder of Madly Hadley, a San Diego-based innovative plant-based food brand. With a background as a private chef focused on plant-based cooking, she worked closely with naturopathic doctors and their patients to create delicious, health-conscious meals. Motivated by a passion to make her chef-quality, vegan, soy-free, and gluten-free recipes accessible to a wider audience, she launched Madly Hadley in 2021. The brand is known for its popular products like coconut bacon bits and cashew Parmesan, which are available nationally in Sprouts and nationally in Whole Foods Market and other natural grocers. Madelyn's mission is to transform familiar foods into healthier, environmentally friendly versions that delight consumers while supporting wellness and sustainability.
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In this inspiring episode, Liesl Bernard sits down with Madelyn Hadley, the dynamic CEO of a thriving vegan snack brand, to explore her path from personal shopper at Whole Foods to trailblazing entrepreneur. Madelyn opens up about the leap of faith that took her from grocery aisles to launching her own line of plant-based products—driven by passion, purpose, and a deep commitment to wellness.
She shares the challenges and lessons she’s faced breaking into the competitive food industry, offering honest insights on everything from sourcing ingredients to scaling a startup. She also dives into her creative process—how she approaches product development, packaging design, and building a brand that truly resonates with today’s conscious consumer.
Madelyn discusses the strategies she’s used to connect with customers, build a loyal following, and spread the message that healthy, flavorful food can be for everyone—no matter your dietary choices. This episode is full of practical advice, authentic stories, and empowering takeaways for anyone looking to turn their vision into reality.
Chapters
00:00 The Journey Begins: From Personal Shopper to CEO
03:05 Creating Vegan Alternatives: The Inspiration Behind the Products
05:57 Overcoming Challenges: Lessons from the Food Industry
09:01 Vision for the Future: Expanding Offerings and Market Reach
11:55 Mindset and Personal Practices: Staying Grounded as an Entrepreneur
15:05 Creative Expression: The Art Behind the Brand
18:06 Building a Team: From Solo Entrepreneur to Collaborative Efforts
21:01 Marketing Strategies: Spreading the Word About Vegan Products
24:06 The Broader Impact: Making Plant-Based Eating Accessible to All
26:51 Connecting with the Community: Engaging Customers and Investors
Connect with Madelyn Hadley:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/madelyn-hadley-29542394/
https://www.madlyhadley.com/
https://www.instagram.com/madlyhadleymagic/
Connect with Liesl Bernard:
liesl@leadingforwellness.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieslbernard/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/leading-for-wellness/
www.leadingforwellness.com