There are so many ways to make a difference with OAC. This engaging session highlights the many ways you can stay connected and involved throughout the year. Learn how to participate in programs, support awareness efforts, share your story, volunteer and connect with the OAC community. Whether you are looking to deepen your involvement or just getting started, you’ll discover meaningful ways to engage and help strengthen the movement.

Gianna Toto

Marketing and Communications Manager, Obesity Action Coalition

Gianna Toto

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Marketing and Communications Manager, Obesity Action Coalition

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James Zervios

Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Obesity Action Coalition

James Zervios

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Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Obesity Action Coalition

Lisa Gresco-White

Director of Membership and Development, Obesity Action Coalition

Lisa Gresco-White

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Director of Membership and Development, Obesity Action Coalition

Michelle "Shelly" Vicari

Director of Programs, Obesity Action Coalition

Michelle "Shelly" Vicari

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Director of Programs, Obesity Action Coalition

Join us for a casual meet and greet designed for Thrive Together programs participants. This is a chance to connect with other families, share experiences, and build supportive relationships within the Thrive Together community.

This mixer is all about celebrating YOU – our fantastic Community members! Your continuous support and dedication to the OAC community make all the difference. Together, we can achieve greatness and create an even stronger community! Join us for fun conversations while enjoying refreshments with fellow OAC enthusiasts. Optional: Show your OAC pride and unity by wearing blue or green, or both!

Sign up for our community today to join in the fun!

Join us Thursday evening for a meaningful and engaging conversation about bias and the real experiences of people living with obesity. Moderated by James Zervios, Senior Vice President and COO of the Obesity Action Coalition, this interactive panel will feature individuals sharing personal perspectives about how bias shows up in everyday life, healthcare and society.

The evening will begin with time to meet and mingle while enjoying light appetizers, followed by a candid and thoughtful discussion that invites reflection, questions and participation from the audience. Together, we will explore how lived experience can help shape understanding, challenge assumptions and move us toward more respectful, compassionate care.

Ania Jastreboff, PhD, MD

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Ania Jastreboff, PhD, MD

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James Zervios

Moderator

Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Obesity Action Coalition

James Zervios

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Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Obesity Action Coalition

Joe Nadglowski

President and Chief Executive Officer, Obesity Action Coalition

Joe Nadglowski

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President and Chief Executive Officer, Obesity Action Coalition

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Mike Donnelly-Boylen

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Mike Donnelly-Boylen

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Nikki Massie, MA

Obesity Action Coalition National Board Chair

Nikki Massie, MA

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Obesity Action Coalition National Board Chair

Get ready to move, stretch, and groove with fun and engaging workouts for all fitness and skill levels. Enjoy energizing classes like yoga, Zumba, and other exciting movement sessions designed to get you feeling strong and uplifted. These classes are led by instructors who truly understand the journey, creating a welcoming space where you can feel supported, empowered, and celebrated. Let’s move together!

Start your day with breakfast and a warm welcome from our Welcome Committee. If you’re new or simply looking to meet others, look for tables hosted by Welcome Committee members who would be happy to sit with you, answer questions and help introduce you to fellow attendees. Prefer a quiet start to your morning? Unlabeled tables will also be available if you’d like to enjoy breakfast on your own before the day’s activities begin.

Kick off the Your Weight Matters National Convention with a warm welcome from Obesity Action Coalition leadership. This opening session sets the tone for the days ahead, highlighting the Convention’s core theme of Support, Education and Advocacy. Together, we will reflect on the power of community, the importance of science-based education and the role each of us plays in advancing understanding and improving the lives of people affected by obesity.

Joe Nadglowski

President and Chief Executive Officer, Obesity Action Coalition

Joe Nadglowski

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President and Chief Executive Officer, Obesity Action Coalition

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Nikki Massie, MA

Obesity Action Coalition National Board Chair

Nikki Massie, MA

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Obesity Action Coalition National Board Chair

What should good obesity care actually look like today?

In this session, obesity medicine expert Kimberly Gudzune, MD, MPH, will explain the new Standards of Care for Obesity and what they really mean for the care you receive. If you want to better understand what comprehensive, stigma-free obesity care should include — and what you deserve as a patient — this session will help set the standard.

Ever feel like your mind is constantly focused on food — what to eat, when to eat or trying not to eat? You’re not imagining it and you’re not alone. Many people living with obesity experience persistent thoughts about food often called food noise.

Kimberly Gudzune, MD

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Kimberly Gudzune, MD

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Internalized weight bias happens when society’s stigma about weight becomes self-directed, affecting how you think, feel and engage with healthcare. You’re not alone — and it’s not your fault.
In this session, psychologist Robyn Pashby, PhD, will explain how internalized bias develops and share evidence-informed strategies to recognize and challenge it. You’ll learn practical ways to foster self-compassion, build resilience and practice kindness toward yourself while navigating your health. If you’ve ever wondered why negative thoughts about weight linger, this session can help you break the cycle.

Robyn Pashby, PhD

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Robyn Pashby, PhD

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Dr. Robyn Pashby is a licensed clinical health psychologist and the founder of Health Psychology Partners, a group of behavioral health clinicians who specialize in the psychological and behavioral treatment of obesity and related health conditions. In addition to clinical practice, Dr. Pashby has authored or co-authored peer-reviewed scientific articles, book chapters, and co-authored a book published in July 2025 entitled “The New Food Fight: How the Weight Management and Eating Disorders Fields Became So Divided and What We Can Do About It.” She currently serves as Co-Chair of the Clinical Practice Committee for The Obesity Society, the chair of the Mental Health Committee for the National Board of Directors for the Obesity Action Coalition, and as chair of The Obesity and Weight Management Advisory Group for the American Diabetes Association. She is also a Research Assistant Professor of Psychology at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, F. Edward Hebert School of Medicine.  Before founding Health Psychology Partners, Dr. Pashby served as a clinician for National Institutes of Health (NIH)-funded research projects exploring the prevention and treatment of obesity.  She also helped establish and served as the Assistant Director and lead psychologist for the National Center for Weight and Wellness in Washington DC.  Dr. Pashby lives in Washington DC with her husband and daughter and their two dogs.

Obesity treatment is evolving rapidly, with new medications, procedures and research emerging every year. But with so many headlines and social media claims, it can be hard to know what is truly new, what is realistic today and what may still be years away.

In this session, an obesity care expert will break down the latest developments in plain language, explain how current treatments fit into the bigger picture and explore what the future of obesity care may look like over the next 5–10 years. You’ll also learn how to better interpret news coverage and misinformation about obesity treatments.

Michael Albert, MD

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Michael Albert, MD

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Michael Albert, MD, is a board-certified internal medicine physician and diplomate of the American Board of Obesity Medicine dedicated to expanding access to evidence-based obesity care. He trained at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, where he served as a Kennamer Fellow and faculty member and founded the Medical Weight Management program at The Weight Loss Center.He is currently a Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center and the co-founder and Chief Medical Officer of Accomplish Health, a nationwide telehealth practice delivering comprehensive obesity medicine and medical bariatrics.Dr. Albert focuses on translating science into practical, patient-centered care and fostering a more informed, compassionate conversation around obesity. He also shares education widely on social media, where he reaches more than 300,000 followers across platforms.

Take a break and enjoy some free time before the next session begins. This is a great opportunity to stretch your legs, explore the Health Hub, visit with exhibitors or connect with fellow attendees. Use this time to recharge, gather helpful resources and continue meaningful conversations.

Stop by the Creation Station — a fun, interactive space where you can share your voice and creativity. Record social media content, be a guest on a podcast, share your story or create the next viral moment. Whether you want to inspire others, advocate for better obesity care or capture your Convention experience, the Creation Station gives you the tools and space to make it happen. Not sure where to start or feeling a little camera shy? No problem. Our team will be there to help guide you, spark ideas and even co-create with you so it feels easy, fun and welcoming for everyone.

Grab your lunch and explore the room. Tables are hosted by experts on a variety of topics, offering a relaxed chance to sit down, ask questions, share experiences and join meaningful conversations. Look for the table signs to find a topic that interests you and pull up a chair.

Meals are included with Full Convention Registration.

Your story has power. In this interactive workshop, attendees will learn how to shape their personal experiences with obesity into a short, meaningful story that can be shared in just 60 seconds. Through guided exercises and supportive conversation, you will discover how to highlight the moments that matter most, communicate your message clearly and connect with others through lived experience. Whether you want to advocate for better care, educate others or simply share your journey, this session will help you craft a story that is authentic, impactful and easy to share in conversations, presentations or social media. By the end of the workshop, you will walk away with a powerful story of your own and the confidence to share it.

Piper Hendricks

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Piper Hendricks

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Piper Hendricks, CEO of Stories Change Power, is a former human rights litigator, documentary filmmaker, and recognized advocacy expert. Piper has a passion for the power of story, particularly its potential to bridge divides and promote belonging. In a variety of formats, she's employed storytelling to inspire action; whether in the courtroom, on the silver screen, or on Capitol Hill, she champions change to promote opportunity for all. Piper founded Stories Change Power to help individuals and organizations claim their power, share their stories, and change the world.

Have you ever been at a doctor’s office, a family gathering, or anywhere in public and someone commented on your weight in a way that made you feel uncomfortable–but your mind went blank or you responded in a way that you later regretted? Maybe you wish you had called them out, stood up for yourself more, or even just let it go. If you've ever wished for a "do-over" to handle situations like these differently next time, this workshop is for you. Join us to talk through real-life scenarios shared by OAC members about their experiences with weight bias. Together, we will generate ideas for things we can say or do in these situations that help us feel comfortable, empowered, and proud. You’ll hear inspiring ideas from other members, learn more about personal boundaries, and leave with practical tools you can use right away.

This workshop is being run by the OAC Mental Health Commitee: 

Allison Grupski, PhD

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Allison Grupski, PhD

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Elizabeth Paul

Obesity Action Coalition National Board Vice Chair/Secretary

Elizabeth Paul

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Obesity Action Coalition National Board Vice Chair/Secretary

Jaime Fivecoat, MBA

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Jaime Fivecoat, MBA

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Kevin Stephens

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Kevin Stephens

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Michelle Tedder, MSN, RN

Village Empowerment Solutions/OAC Board Member

Michelle Tedder, MSN, RN

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Village Empowerment Solutions/OAC Board Member

Nanette Wilson Adams, MEd, LPC, LMHC

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Nanette Wilson Adams, MEd, LPC, LMHC

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Robyn Pashby, PhD

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Robyn Pashby, PhD

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Dr. Robyn Pashby is a licensed clinical health psychologist and the founder of Health Psychology Partners, a group of behavioral health clinicians who specialize in the psychological and behavioral treatment of obesity and related health conditions. In addition to clinical practice, Dr. Pashby has authored or co-authored peer-reviewed scientific articles, book chapters, and co-authored a book published in July 2025 entitled “The New Food Fight: How the Weight Management and Eating Disorders Fields Became So Divided and What We Can Do About It.” She currently serves as Co-Chair of the Clinical Practice Committee for The Obesity Society, the chair of the Mental Health Committee for the National Board of Directors for the Obesity Action Coalition, and as chair of The Obesity and Weight Management Advisory Group for the American Diabetes Association. She is also a Research Assistant Professor of Psychology at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, F. Edward Hebert School of Medicine.  Before founding Health Psychology Partners, Dr. Pashby served as a clinician for National Institutes of Health (NIH)-funded research projects exploring the prevention and treatment of obesity.  She also helped establish and served as the Assistant Director and lead psychologist for the National Center for Weight and Wellness in Washington DC.  Dr. Pashby lives in Washington DC with her husband and daughter and their two dogs.

Wendy Pruim

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Wendy Pruim

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Get ready to move, stretch, and groove with fun and engaging workouts for all fitness and skill levels. Enjoy energizing classes like yoga, Zumba, and other exciting movement sessions designed to get you feeling strong and uplifted. These classes are led by instructors who truly understand the journey, creating a welcoming space where you can feel supported, empowered, and celebrated. Let’s move together!

• Zumba: Longboat event room
• Lightsaber: Merritt event room
• Chair Yoga: Bluegill (2nd floor)

Take a break and enjoy some free time before the next session begins. This is a great opportunity to stretch your legs, explore the Health Hub, visit with exhibitors or connect with fellow attendees. Use this time to recharge, gather helpful resources and continue meaningful conversations.

Stop by the Creation Station — a fun, interactive space where you can share your voice and creativity. Record social media content, be a guest on a podcast, share your story or create the next viral moment. Whether you want to inspire others, advocate for better obesity care or capture your Convention experience, the Creation Station gives you the tools and space to make it happen. Not sure where to start or feeling a little camera shy? No problem. Our team will be there to help guide you, spark ideas and even co-create with you so it feels easy, fun and welcoming for everyone.

An ocean-themed night of fun, connection and community -  Dive into a fun, ocean-themed evening filled with music, laughter and creative costumes. Whether you come as a jellyfish, a pirate or just in beachy vibes, this night is all about connecting with others and celebrating the supportive community we build together. And if you’d rather be an onlooker than a costume wearer, that’s perfectly OK too — come as you are and enjoy the fun.

Get ready to move, stretch, and groove with fun and engaging workouts for all fitness and skill levels. Enjoy energizing classes like yoga, Zumba, and other exciting movement sessions designed to get you feeling strong and uplifted. These classes are led by instructors who truly understand the journey, creating a welcoming space where you can feel supported, empowered, and celebrated. Let’s move together!

• Morning Walk: Registration desk
• Zumba: Longboat event room
• Chair Yoga: Bluegill (2nd floor)

Start your day with breakfast and a warm welcome from our Welcome Committee. If you’re new or simply looking to meet others, look for tables hosted by Welcome Committee members who would be happy to sit with you, answer questions and help introduce you to fellow attendees. Prefer a quiet start to your morning? Unlabeled tables will also be available if you’d like to enjoy breakfast on your own before the day’s activities begin.

Begin the day with a gathering led by OAC leadership focused on the strength of this community and the shared mission that brings us together. This session reflects on the impact of support, education and advocacy while looking ahead at how individuals, families, healthcare professionals and advocates can continue moving the mission forward together.

Elizabeth Paul

Obesity Action Coalition National Board Vice Chair/Secretary

Elizabeth Paul

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Obesity Action Coalition National Board Vice Chair/Secretary

Joe Nadglowski

President and Chief Executive Officer, Obesity Action Coalition

Joe Nadglowski

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President and Chief Executive Officer, Obesity Action Coalition

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Nikki Massie, MA

Obesity Action Coalition National Board Chair

Nikki Massie, MA

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Obesity Action Coalition National Board Chair

Ever feel like your mind is constantly focused on food — what to eat, when to eat or trying not to eat? You’re not imagining it and you’re not alone. Many people living with obesity experience persistent thoughts about food often called food noise.

In this session, registered dietitian and obesity care specialist Colleen Tewksbury, PhD, MPH, RD, CSOWM, LDN, will explain what food noise is and why it happens. You’ll learn how biology, brain chemistry, emotions and your environment all interact to drive ongoing food thoughts and urges and why this experience is not about willpower or personal failure.

This session offers understanding and practical perspective for anyone who has struggled with constant thoughts about food.

Colleen Tewksbury, PhD, MPH, RD, CSOWM, LDN

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Colleen Tewksbury, PhD, MPH, RD, CSOWM, LDN

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Colleen Tewksbury is an Assistant Professor in Nutrition Science at the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing. Dr. Tewksbury has been a Registered Dietitian at the Penn Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Program since 2014, is the Associate Director of Nutrition Programs at Penn Nursing, and the Class of 1940 Bicentennial Term Chair. Her research focuses on obesity and weight management, and she leads several funded studies on the effects of pharmacotherapy on nutrition and health outcomes.

GLP-1 medications are changing more than individual treatment plans. They are reshaping conversations, care delivery and even how society understands obesity. But what do these changes really mean for society as a whole?

These therapies are influencing how Americans live and spend, with ripple effects across restaurants, grocery stores, food manufacturers, fitness clubs, healthcare services and even the airline industry. In this session, Ted Kyle shines a light on this unpredictable phenomenon, one that is rarely driven by a single medication class and helps place it into context.

Ted Kyle, RPh, MBA

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Ted Kyle, RPh, MBA

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Ted Kyle is a pharmacist and healthcare innovator from Pittsburgh, as well as a past chair of OAC who served on the board of directors for a dozen years. He's a tireless advocate for people living with obesity. His widely-read daily commentary, published at Conscienhealth.org, reaches a diverse audience of thought leaders in health and obesity. His peer-reviewed publications focus on obesity, weight bias, and health policy.

In this session, exercise and health expert Renee Rogers, PhD, will break down body composition and fitness and what they actually tell you about your health, metabolism and daily function. You’ll learn what common measurements mean, how they are assessed and the science behind what they actually measure, along with how they relate to strength, mobility, energy, overall wellbeing and day-to-day quality of life.

Dr. Rogers will share evidence on where the science currently stands, what we still don’t know and why there is no single approach that works for everyone. Drawing on years of research and clinical experience, she will explain why obesity care and fitness strategies need to be personalized and patient-centered, especially as we learn more about how physical activity interacts with newer treatments and affects biological and body composition changes.

She will also share practical ways to use this information to set realistic, personal health goals that support how you want to feel and function each day.

Renee Rogers, PhD

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Renee Rogers, PhD

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Renee J. Rogers, PhD, FACSM, FTOS is an expert in developing bio-behavioral lifestyle interventions for obesity treatment, with a special focus on physical activity and strategies that support long-term success. She has spent more than 20 years working in obesity and physical activity research and programming, serving in roles that include instructor, practitioner, program director, researcher, designer, and consultant to large organizations.Dr. Rogers blends her background in theater and production with her academic training in exercise physiology, body composition and tissue quality, bio-behavioral science, and comprehensive obesity care to create innovative programs that help people engage in healthy lifestyle behaviors in ways that are practical and meaningful in everyday life. Her current work focuses on body composition, muscle and tissue quality, and lifestyle factors that support health and function alongside modern obesity treatments, including pharmacotherapy.Beyond the research, and most importantly, Dr. Rogers is passionate about helping people feel and function their best each day. She works to change the narrative around movement, physical activity, and exercise so that it supports each person in a positive way. Her goal is to help people develop a healthy relationship with physical activity - one that is feasible, sustainable, and enjoyable.

Take a break and enjoy some free time before the next session begins. This is a great opportunity to stretch your legs, explore the Health Hub, visit with exhibitors or connect with fellow attendees. Use this time to recharge, gather helpful resources and continue meaningful conversations.

Stop by the Creation Station — a fun, interactive space where you can share your voice and creativity. Record social media content, be a guest on a podcast, share your story or create the next viral moment. Whether you want to inspire others, advocate for better obesity care or capture your Convention experience, the Creation Station gives you the tools and space to make it happen. Not sure where to start or feeling a little camera shy? No problem. Our team will be there to help guide you, spark ideas and even co-create with you so it feels easy, fun and welcoming for everyone.

Grab your lunch and explore the room. Tables are hosted by experts on a variety of topics, offering a relaxed chance to sit down, ask questions, share experiences and join meaningful conversations. Look for the table signs to find a topic that interests you and pull up a chair.

Meals are included with Full Convention Registration.

Whether you are early after bariatric surgery, years out from your procedure, using a GLP-1 medication, or simply working to maintain your weight loss, protein remains one of the most important nutrients for long-term success. This interactive workshop will explore why protein matters beyond the number on the scale, including its role in muscle health, strength, satiety, and healthy aging. Participants will learn practical strategies for building protein-forward meals and snacks, navigating busy schedules, and creating a personalized eating plan that supports their goals. The session includes hands-on worksheet activities and time for questions and discussion.

Cassie Story, RDN

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Cassie Story, RDN

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This workshop uses evidence-based cognitive behavioral strategies to tackle body-related self-criticism, comparison and distress in a practical and engaging way. Rachel Goldman, PhD, who has recently appeared on the Today Show, the Oprah Winfrey Special, the Mel Robbins Podcast and other national media, brings her relatable style and real-world insights to this interactive session.

Through guided exercises, conversation and a few “aha” moments along the way, participants will explore how thoughts and patterns shape the way we see our bodies. Dr. Goldman will share simple, science-based strategies to help quiet the inner critic, step away from comparison and build a more compassionate and functional relationship with your body.

You’ll leave with practical tools you can start using right away and maybe even a new perspective on how to talk to yourself along the journey.

Rachel Goldman, PhD

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Rachel Goldman, PhD

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Rachel L. Goldman, PhD, FTOS, FASMBS-IH (aka Dr. Rachel), is a nationally recognized clinical psychologist, author, speaker, and consultant who takes a holistic approach to health. A leading expert in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), she specializes in stress reduction, disordered eating, health behavior change, and the treatment of obesity. She is also a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at NYU Grossman School of Medicine and runs a private practice in New York City.Dr. Rachel is a sought-after speaker and media expert, with appearances on national platforms including TIME Magazine, The New York Times, CNN, and USA Today. She has shared the stage with Oprah, spoken at Reese Witherspoon’s Shine Away event, and been featured on prominent podcasts such as The Mel Robbins Podcast. She has also served as a consultant for the film The Whale and is a frequent guest on Sirius XM Doctor Radio.Recognized with the 2023 Distinguished Behavioral Health Provider Award from ASMBS, she is also a Mental Health Coalition Champion and was named one of Women’s Health Magazine’s Most Inspiring Women to Follow. She has been recognized as a Top Mental Health Influencer, CBT Influencer, and Stress Management Influencer for the past 3 years.Passionate about making mental health tools accessible, Dr. Rachel is the author of the book When Life Happens, recently released April 2026, which reflects her mission to help people manage stress, build confidence, and create meaningful change in their lives. Widely regarded as a trusted voice, she empowers individuals to build their own mental health toolbox and live healthier, happier lives.

Get ready to move, stretch, and groove with fun and engaging workouts for all fitness and skill levels. Enjoy energizing classes like yoga, Zumba, and other exciting movement sessions designed to get you feeling strong and uplifted. These classes are led by instructors who truly understand the journey, creating a welcoming space where you can feel supported, empowered, and celebrated. Let’s move together! 

• Strength Training: Longboat event room
• Polynesian fitness: Merritt event room
• Chair Yoga: Bluegill (2nd floor)

Take a break and enjoy some free time before the next session begins. This is a great opportunity to stretch your legs, explore the Health Hub, visit with exhibitors or connect with fellow attendees. Use this time to recharge, gather helpful resources and continue meaningful conversations.

Stop by the Creation Station — a fun, interactive space where you can share your voice and creativity. Record social media content, be a guest on a podcast, share your story or create the next viral moment. Whether you want to inspire others, advocate for better obesity care or capture your Convention experience, the Creation Station gives you the tools and space to make it happen. Not sure where to start or feeling a little camera shy? No problem. Our team will be there to help guide you, spark ideas and even co-create with you so it feels easy, fun and welcoming for everyone.

Join us for a slightly dressed-up evening where new and old friends and meaningful conversation come together. This dinner features a brief presentation followed by one of our favorite traditions — community sharing. You’re welcome to listen, share or simply enjoy being part of the moment. It’s a chance to slow down, connect with others who understand and close out the convention feeling encouraged, inspired and supported.