Program 2025

“Cheers to 50 Years!”

Educational Program (2025)

Please check back for updates to the program. All Educational Programs will be in the Regent Ballroom unless otherwise noted.

In addition to viewing the speaker’s bios and full topic information below, you can click here to download a PDF of this year’s Program listing just the dates and times of each speaker along with their topic title.

FRIDAY, JULY 25, 2025

12:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Lunch and Intensive Workshop – Dr. Holly Lucille and Cheryl Myers

Part 1: “The Role of Natural Medicines in Mental and Neurological Health” – Cheryl Myers, RN, BA
Part 2: “Solutions for Endocrine Disorders: Diabetes, Obesity, Menopause and Thyroid Issues” – Dr. Holly Lucille, ND, RN

Courtesy of Terry Naturally/EuroPharma

5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Dinner and Seminar – Neil Levin and Jessica Earley

“Essential Oil Quality & Safety + Beauty From Within”

Part 1: “Choosing Essential Oils: Understanding Label Claims, Safety, Grades & Purity Standards”
Part 2: “Beauty From Within”
– Neil Levin and Jessica Earley

Courtesy of NOW

7:15 – 8:15 p.m. Nightcap Presentation – Brendan Gaughran

“Core Ailments: Where Doctors Fail Patients”
– Brendan Gaughran

Courtesy of Liver Medic

SATURDAY, JULY 26, 2025

8:00 – 10:00 a.m. Breakfast and Seminar – Nicole Gitlin

“Research Unlocked: Omega-3s for Life”

Courtesy of Nordic Naturals

10:15 – 11:30 a.m. – Jamin Busick

“Private Label Herbal Supplements – Make Your Brand, Your BEST Brand!”

Courtesy of Vitality Works

11:45 – 1:00 p.m. – Dan Chapman

“Natural Blood Sugar Support in the Age of Ozempic”

Courtesy of Redd Remedies

1:00 – 3:00 p.m. Lunch and Seminar – Carl Germano

“Enhancing Digestive Health: The Role of the Microbiome, Brain & Immune System”

Courtesy of Bluebonnet

3:00 – 6:00 p.m. – SHOW FLOOR OPEN

6:15 – 8:15 p.m. Dinner and Seminar – Brenda Watson

“The Next Evolution of Gut Health; Unraveling the Power of Pre, Pro, Post and Parabiotic”

Courtesy of Vital Planet

SUNDAY, JULY 27, 2025

9:00 – 9:30 a.m. Breakfast and Annual Business Meeting – MAHO Board of Directors

Courtesy of Wholesun Wellness

9:30 – 10:45 a.m. Breakfast and Seminar – Jme Bonfiglio

“Not All Mushrooms Are Equal: How to Identify Quality Medicinal Mushroom Supplements”

Courtesy of Wholesun Wellness

10:45 – 12:00 p.m. – Tom Sokoloff

“IP-6: The World Takes Notice, including Big Pharma!”

Courtesy of IP-6

Noon – 4:00 p.m.: SHOW FLOOR OPEN

4:00 – 4:30 p.m.: PRIZE DRAWINGS: Easton Foyer

Cheryl Myers

Cheryl Myers is an integrative health nurse, author, and an expert on natural medicine. She has certifications in cancer, pain control, and issues of aging. She has been interviewed by the New York Times, Prevention Magazine, and the Wall Street Journal. Cheryl is a member of the editorial board of theNatural Medicine Journal, and her own published research has included topics such as menopause, diabetes, sleep disorders, and gastrointestinal function. She is a well-known advocate for bridging the worlds of mainstream and natural medicine.

The Role of Natural Medicines in Mental and Neurological Health

Disorders of the brain and nervous system encompass a vast array of conditions – including anxiety, ADHD, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, depression, and peripheral neuropathy. Natural medicines, able to relieve inflammation and neutralize oxidative stress, can offer hope for symptom relief and significant improvements in quality of life without the adverse effects associated with conventional treatments. Join mental health expert Cheryl Myers for a compassionate and optimistic look at scientific advancements in the treatment of conditions affecting millions of Americans.

Dr. Holly Lucille

Dr. Holly Lucille, ND, RN, is a nationally recognized and licensed naturopathic doctor, educator, natural products consultant, and television and radio host.

Solutions for Endocrine Disorders: Diabetes, Obesity, Menopause and Thyroid Issues

Hormones affect nearly every system in the human body. Whether we enjoy restful sleep, a healthy libido, fast metabolism, daily energy, and clear thinking depends, in large part, on how well our hormones are functioning. Holly Lucille, ND is a naturopathic physician who specializes in the use of botanical and natural treatments to reset metabolism and restore the endocrine system for optimal health. Join her to learn the secrets of hormone management and how proven natural medicines can re-establish essential hormonal function.

Neil Levin

Neil Edward Levin, CCN, DANLA is the Senior Nutrition Education Manager and a product formulator for NOW® Health Group, Inc. A longtime natural products retailer, Neil is a board-certified clinical nutritionist, a co-founder of the American Nutrition Association and a member of its Nutrition Leaders Council, a Director of the Mid-American Health Organization, and serves on the International & American Association of Clinical Nutritionists’ Clinical Nutrition Certification Board. An international lecturer, Neil is a former Technical Advisor to The Non-GMO Project and a recipient of the Natural Products Industry Champion Award for his advocacy work.

Jessica Earley

After earning her Bachelor of Science in Nutrition, Jessica pursued graduate studies that led her to achieve a Master’s in Holistic Nutrition. Her education along with her 10+ years of retail nutritionist experience in the health and wellness field equipped her with a unique perspective on how nutrition inter-plays with lifestyle, environment, and supplementation to influence health.
Currently, Jessica is a Nutritionist for the Product Information department at NOW Foods, a leading natural products company with a dedication to superior quality. Jessica is passionate about educating and encouraging individuals to take a proactive role in their health journey by making mindful and informed decisions.

Essential Oil Quality & Safety + Beauty From Within

Part 1 – Essential Oils are an important part of today’s natural marketplace. Facing contradictory claims, how do we properly understand their quality and safe/appropriate uses? Are grades and certifications important? What are the labelling regulations? How do organic oils differ from non-organics, and are pesticides and heavy metals relevant concerns? What do the terms ‘food grade’ or ‘therapeutic grade’ really mean, and which oils are too dangerous to consume? What do we know about EO safety around children and pets? Learn how Essential Oil quality is determined and how to navigate competing claims at this uniquely detailed presentation!

Part 2 – With consumers spending less time on their skincare routine and 74% of buyers agreeing that their skin health is a reflection of their overall health, they are increasingly taking a holistic approach to their skincare, including beauty-from-within. Learn about trending ingredients in this growing (and glowing!) women’s health and skincare category, and gain insights into managing common skin conditions with an inside-out approach.

Brendan Gaughran

Brendan Gaughran received his degree in Molecular Biology from the University of Connecticut and MBA from Bentley University. He conducts physician and general public health lectures focused on gut health, liver health, endocrine system, adrenal fatigue and optimum diets for over 20 years. Brendan is the owner/founder of Liver Medic, which manufactures proprietary liver and digestive solutions. Brendan also hosts the Unconventional Medicine podcast.

Core Ailments: Where Doctors Fail Patients

Most metabolic ailments are driven by toxicity and GI damage. With very specific protocols and the right sequence of products, learn how to support reversing the following: fatty liver, leaky gut, adrenal fatigue, Hashimoto’s and more. This while reducing pathogen buildup from parasites and fungus. This knowledge is invaluable in your search to help patients/clients in your business.

Nicole Gitlin

Nicole’s passion for teaching others about health and wellness was inspired by her own health journey — a personal mission which drove her to become a Certified Holistic Health Practitioner (H.H.P), Certified Herbalist (C.C.M.H), and Certified Nutrition Consultant (C.N.C). As a skilled bilingual educator, Nicole strives to deliver complex science in an easy to understand and retainable way to retailers and consumers both domestically and internationally. In her leisure time, Nicole loves to garden, cook and explore the outdoors.

Research Unlocked: Omega-3s for life

Omega-3 fats (EPA & DHA) found in fish, fish oil, and algae are backed by decades of clinical research showcasing their benefits for the heart, brain, eye, and prenatal health. Omega-3s aren’t just beneficial – they’re vitally important for every cell in the body. Despite the importance of these critical nutrients, 80% of Americand are chronically deficient.

Join Nicole Gitlin, Educator for Nordic Naturals, as she provides an in-depth look at the lifelong importance of these powerful fatty acids and why supplementing with safe, fresh, and high-quality products is imperative to maintaining optimal health.

Jamin Busick

Jamin Busick is the National Sales Manager for Vitality Works and has grown for 22 years in the natural products industry. Jamin worked for 17 years selling and educating about homeopathic medicine before joining the medicinal herb business at Vitality Works. He has trained thousands of store staff and medical professionals about how natural products work, in a way that is easy to understand, FUN, memorable and that will immediately benefit your customers and build your business.

Private Label Herbal Supplements – Make Your Brand, Your BEST Brand!

Vitality Works has been manufacturing Private Label and Custom/Contract formulas since 1982. In the first 17 years, the founder, Mitch Coven developed medicinal herbal formulas in clinical practice, treating patients and learning how to make the most efficacious products possible. Demand for the formulas grew, and the private label model for retail health food stores was born! Private label is a brilliant move for your business now, more than ever before. Please join us to learn about the quality backstory which is critical for efficacy and consistency, to ensure your shoppers are getting the absolute best products. You’ll also learn about the economic benefits to your business from having a customer base that is loyal to your brand, while protecting you in the long term against online competition.

Dan Chapman

Growing up in the aisles of his parents’ health food stores (Sunrise Health Foods) and witnessing customers experience life-changing events, created a deep desire and commitment in Dan Chapman to help people live full, healthy lives. Dan is the CEO and Founder of Redd Remedies and is a leading voice for natural remedies, and a go-to media expert on herbs, supplements, and healthy eating. His expertise and genuine passion for creating lasting solutions come together from a strong desire to move from health struggles to healthy living.

Natural Blood Sugar Support in the Age of Ozempic

The question remains, “How do I lose weight?” and “How do I make my body conform to how I want it to look?” It is so easy to want a drug to force a result, while ignoring the real impact on health. Dan Chapman shares the truth about pharmaceuticals like Ozempic and the latest research on natural supplements that balance glucose metabolism, curb cravings, and protect against the negative impacts of sugar and stress.

Carl Germano

Carl Germano, CNS, CDN is a NY Board Certified Clinical Nutritionist, master’s degree in clinical nutrition from New York University, and Vice President of Verdant Oasis. In addition, he has 4 decades of product development/education experience with many companies in the trade including Solgar, Country Life, Bluebonnet, Ajinomoto, Inergetics, Nutratech, and others. Today, his efforts are focused on providing the dietary supplement industry with the next generation of clinically important hemp based phytocannabinoid ingredients. A prolific author with several bestselling trade books including his most recent “Road To Ananda: The Simple Guide To The Endocannabinoid System, Phytocannabinoids & Your Health”

Enhancing Digestive Health:
The Role of the Microbiome, Brain, & Immune System

Digestive health is a cornerstone of overall well-being, yet millions of Americans struggle with digestive issues. In fact, digestive diseases affect 60 to 70 million people in the U.S., leading to significant discomfort and impacting quality of life. This lecture will delve into the essential roles of prebiotics, probiotics, and digestive enzymes. Additionally, nutrients addressing the health of the brain and immune system in promoting healthy digestion and alleviating common digestive problems will be explored. The essential role of all of these nutrients are to beneficially affect the host by stimulating the growth and activity of beneficial bacteria in the gut in order to maintain a balanced gut microbiota, protect against harmful bacteria, and reduce inflammation. For many, digestive enzymes may be necessary to aid in the digestion of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, and are particularly beneficial for individuals with enzyme deficiencies. Moreover, the brain and immune system are intricately linked to digestive health. The gut-brain axis is a bidirectional communication pathway where the brain can influence gut function and vice versa. Stress and anxiety can exacerbate digestive issues, highlighting the importance of mental health in maintaining digestive wellness. Additionally, a significant portion of the immune system resides in the gut, where it plays a crucial role in defending against pathogens and regulating inflammatory responses. Join us to explore how integrating prebiotics, probiotics, and digestive enzymes into daily routines can support a healthy digestive system, as well as enhance immune function, and contribute to overall mental and physical well-being.

Brenda Watson

For more than 25 years, Brenda Watson C.N.C., has been helping people achieve vibrant health through improved digestion. As an author of 8 books, a New York Times bestseller and the creator of 6 PBS shows on digestive health, including her newest show “Gut Check, HOPE for Ultimate Health”, Brenda continues the crusade of teaching how the gut is the foundation of your health. Armed with the latest research, Brenda is now helping to unravel the newest mysteries of the gut microbiome.

The Next Evolution of Gut Health; Unraveling the Power of Pre, Pro, Post and Parabiotic

Long gone are the days of single strain, low potency probiotic formulas. New research into individual probiotic strains that offer a more targeted approach to health, and the benefits of prebiotics, postbiotics and parabiotics is changing the way probiotic products are formulated.

Join Brenda Watson, founder of Vital Planet, a leader in probiotic supplements, as she unravels the mystery of the newest addition to natural health, postbiotics and parabiotics!

Tom Sokoloff

Tom Sokoloff has been a veteran of the natural products industry for almost 30 years. Having had the privilege of working in retail, distribution, manufacturing and research, it provides him a vast amount of experience in the industry. Tom is the former owner of Paradise Health & Nutrition, a three store chain in Florida founded in 1994. During his years as a retailer, Tom served on the board of directors for the NNFA/NPA National and Southeast region including serving as President of NNFA-Southeast.

IP-6: The World Takes Notice, including Big Pharma!

Tom Sokoloff is back with an update on the emerging research and growing global popularity of IP6 & Inositol. Even Big Pharma has taken notice looking for ways to utilize IP6 as a new drug. Once again you can’t fool Mother Nature so let’s examine the difference between the two.

Jme Bonfiglio

Jme Bonfiglio, founder of WholeSun Wellness, has long championed the transformative power of mushrooms, with decades of personal and professional dedication to the field. A pioneer in mushroom cultivation, processing, and testing, Jme has set new standards by building a vertically-integrated medicinal mushroom operation that supplies farms, formulators, and brands worldwide. Her deep-rooted commitment to high-quality, ethically-produced mushrooms has made WholeSun Wellness a trusted name in the global industry.

Jme’s impact reaches far beyond business. She is a passionate advocate for women in mycology, dedicating herself to empowering women around the world to make their mark in the field. As a prominent speaker at international conferences and festivals—including as the organizer of the Utah Fungi Fest—Jme inspires a growing community to see mushrooms as a path to health, empowerment, and environmental sustainability. Through WholeSun Wellness, she makes medicinal mushroom extracts accessible to those facing health challenges, providing a vital resource in complementary medicine.

Her commitment to sustainability is evident in her support of fungi-based research, focusing on innovative solutions such as bio-degrading plastics and sustainable building materials. Looking ahead, Jme and WholeSun Wellness are committed to reshaping the mushroom supplement industry through a focus on quality, integrity, and eco-conscious practices.

Jme’s guiding philosophy reflects her vision for the future: “Our industry has lost its way… It’s time to get back to our roots and collaborate to make changes that create a better world for all of us.” Through WholeSun Wellness, Jme isn’t just setting industry standards—she’s creating a legacy of integrity, quality, and sustainability in the global mushroom industry.

How to Identify Quality Medicinal Mushroom Supplements

In a world where the supplement industry—especially mushrooms—is largely unregulated, it’s more important than ever to know what you’re really getting in that capsule or powder. Not all mushrooms are created equal. From how they’re grown to how they’re processed and tested, every step plays a vital role in the final product’s quality, effectiveness, and safety.

Today, we’re going to explore what makes a mushroom supplement truly medicinal, how to decode product labels, and why transparency in sourcing and testing is essential. We’ll also take a closer look at the incredible whole-body health benefits medicinal mushrooms can offer—when they’re grown and formulated correctly.

In addition, we’ll break down the importance of using pure mycelium, with fruiting bodies, what that actually means, and how it impacts the potency and therapeutic value of a product.

This conversation is all about empowering you to make informed choices and understand the standards WholeSun Wellness is setting in an industry that desperately needs them.

SHOW FLOOR HOURS

Saturday, July 26: 3:00 – 6:00 p.m.

Sunday, July 27: Noon – 4:00 p.m.

HOTEL INFORMATION

Celebrate “Cheers to 50 Years!” with us.

MAHO’s 2025 “Summer Splash” Convention & MAHO Expo “room block” will be available for MAHO guests July 24-28, 2025 at the Hilton Columbus at Easton. Room rates are $185/night + tax before 6/1/25.