Leading For Wellness

Liesl Bernard

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.

  1. 12/15/2025

    EP 24 - The Herbal Pharmacist: A Journey of Transformation - David Foreman

    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.  -----  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

    17 min
  2. 11/18/2025

    EP 23 - The Entrepreneurial Spirit: Building a Functional Food Brand - Paul Frantellizzi

    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  -----  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

    40 min
  3. 10/15/2025

    EP 21 - From Medicine to Mushrooms: A Journey of Transformation - Sandra Carter

    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.  -------   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

    49 min
  4. 07/23/2025

    EP 19 - Transforming Wellness and the Future of Nutrition and Mental Health - Tom Aarts

    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

    31 min
  5. 07/08/2025

    EP 18 - From Adversity to Empowerment: Lessons in Entrepreneurship - Lisa Odenweller

    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  ---  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

    50 min
  6. 06/17/2025

    EP 17 - The Power of Branding and Intention in the Natural Foods Industry - Ari Raz

    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

    51 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

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.