Festival Speakers

Friday 7:30pm–9:30pm

Johann Hari: 3-time New York Times Best-Selling Author

Johann Hari Live Event: Stolen Focus LIVE

Do you find it hard to concentrate?

Embark on a transformative journey with Johann Hari as he unveils the profound insights from his New York Times Best Selling book, Stolen Focus. In this brand-new live event, Johann explores the modern crisis of attention and the societal forces that have hijacked our focus. Through compelling narratives and rigorous research, he uncovers the hidden culprits behind our dwindling capacity for deep concentration. Join us for an eye-opening evening, where Johann not only diagnoses the problem, but also provides actionable solutions to reclaim our attention and rediscover life. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with one of today’s foremost thinkers on a topic that touches us all.

Saturday 7:30pm–9:30pm

Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall: River Cottage TV series, Author and Food Activist

Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall – Eat Better Forever LIVE

Spend an evening with Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall and Eat Better Forever. Instead of promising a gimmicky quick-fix for healthy eating, Hugh extracts knowledge, advice, and healthy habits from cutting-edge research, offering simple strategies to transform your diet and health. Starting with the blissfully simple message to ‘Go Whole’, he reconnects us with real, seasonal foods that nurture and sustain us. From differentiating between good and bad carbs, learning not to fear fat, to exploring his latest book, How To Eat 30 Plants A Week, for gut health and boosted immunity, Hugh guides us to a better way of eating that will last a lifetime.

Saturday 8:30am–9:15am  

Aunty Brenda Matthews: The Last Daughter (Author and Netflix documentary)

Aunty Brenda Matthews: Healing From Trauma

The Last Daughter (Netflix, Book) chronicles Brenda Matthews’ inspiring journey as a member of the Stolen Generation. Taken from her parents at the age of two, she spent five years living with a loving white foster family, unaware of her Aboriginal identity and her parents’ tireless search for her.

Suddenly, she was returned to her Aboriginal family, becoming the last daughter of seven siblings to come back home. Decades later, feeling a void, she embarked on a quest to reconnect with her foster family, particularly with her white sister. In this session, Brenda shares her remarkable story and imparts how ancient Aboriginal wisdom and spirituality profoundly influenced her healing journey. She reveals how these secrets, once hidden in the past, have become powerful lessons for us all today.

Saturday 8:00am–9:00am (Workshops)

Turia Pitt (Author, Athlete, and Women’s Health Advocate) and Belinda Fong (Coach Bel)

A Run with Turia

Join Turia Pitt and Coach Belinda Fong (Coach Bel) at Viva Festival and discover how to run, even if you don’t think you can! Regardless of your age, size, or fitness level, every-BODY can run. With a proven track record of coaching thousands of women, Turia unveils her game-changing approach: ‘The Shuffle Method’. It’s the secret sauce that transforms apprehensive, cardio-averse non-runners into confident individuals who can effortlessly conquer a 5km run. In this hands-on session, Turia methodically breaks down ‘The Shuffle Method,’ providing you with the essential keys to refine your running style. Later, Turia and Coach Bel will take you out for a practice run to solidify your skills. Whether you’re starting from scratch or honing your technique, Turia and Coach Bel are here to guide you towards your running aspirations.

Limited spots available. Please wear fitness clothing and running shoes.

Saturday 11:00am–12:00pm (Main Stage)

Turia Pitt: Author, Athlete, and Women’s Health Advocate

In Conversation with Turia Pitt. Hosted by Sarah Grynberg

Surviving burns to 65% of her body during an ultra-marathon, Turia Pitt is living proof that with the right mindset, anything is possible.

She’s written three best-selling books, sailed a boat around French Polynesia, competed at the Ironman world championships, rubbed shoulders with Harry and Megs, raised millions for Interplast, been an answer on the game show, Hard Quiz, and has taught thousands of women how to run.

Join Sarah Grynberg as she hosts this inspiring Viva Session as Turia shares her story and her mission to empower women through running.

Saturday 12:00pm–12:45pm (Main Stage)

Felice Jacka: Alfred Deakin Professor, OAM

Brain Changer: You Feel How You Eat

We accept that the quality of our diet affects the health of our heart and liver. So why wouldn’t diet – good or bad – affect the health of our brain?

This is the question that Australian scientist Felice Jacka set out to answer. Having suffered depression and anxiety as a young woman, she wanted to understand the role diet plays in our overall mental and brain health. What she found through her own research, and that of other eminent scientists worldwide, will revolutionise the way we think about what we eat and how we care for our brains. Professor Jacka, who leads the field of Nutritional Psychiatry research globally, provides not just the most recent scientific evidence but also a range of simple, practical solutions for improving the way we feel and eat on a daily basis.

Saturday 1:15pm–2:00pm (Main Stage)

Sarah Grynberg: Host of A Life Of Greatness podcast

In Conversation with Sarah Grynberg: Wisdom On How To Live A Life Of Greatness. Hosted by Dr Ali Walker

Sarah Grynberg, a highly regarded teacher in mindset and manifestation and the host of the podcast, A Life Of Greatness, offers profound insights into realising your utmost potential. With an abundance of research, she shares proven strategies for crafting the life you’ve always envisioned. Sarah seamlessly integrates her personal experiences, extensive research, and transformative teachings in mindset and manifestation, empowering you to create the life of your dreams.

Saturday 2:00pm–2:30pm (Main Stage)

Dr Ineka Whiteman: Neuroscientist, Author and Brain Health Advocate

The Science of Faith and The Mind 

Join neuroscientist Dr. Ineka Whiteman on a captivating exploration into the connection of faith, spirituality and neuroscience. Uncover the intricate relationship between the human brain and matters of faith, delving into the latest scientific insights. Engage in thought-provoking inquiries about the potential distinctions between the physical brain and the intangible mind. Discover how various forms of faith and spiritual practices influence the neural architecture, gaining valuable insights at this intersection of belief and science. Dr. Whiteman will also shed light on the mind’s remarkable ability to impact outcomes, including its role in healing through practices like prayer and intention. This session promises an enlightening journey into the neural underpinnings of faith and the evolving landscape of human understanding.

Sunday 12:00pm–12:45pm

Maz Compton: Author of Last Drinks

Expert Panel: Maz Compton (Author of Last Drinks), Dr Chris Chappel (Functional Medicine Doctor) Dr Ineka Whiteman (Neuroscientist) and Dr Buddhi Lokuge (Addiction Medicine Specialist).

Expert Panel: Alcohol: Are We Drinking Too Much? Hosted by Maz Compton with expert guests Dr Ineka Whiteman and Dr Buddhi Lokuge

Join Maz Compton, author of Last Drinks, as she hosts for this thought-provoking expert panel, as we delve into the multi-faceted topic of alcohol consumption and its impact on our health. We’ll be exploring everything from the physical impact of alcohol on our bodies, to its cultural appeal, which, let’s face it, sometimes feels a bit like the smoking trends of the ‘80s. Together, we’ll dissect how our perception of alcohol has influenced the way we drink and why we’re drawn to it. We’ll also examine the world of moderation and abstinence and how these choices can transform your overall well-being. So, grab a beverage (maybe a mocktail?) and get ready for a provocative conversation that might just change the way you look at that drink in your hand.

Saturday 3:00pm–3:45pm

Jessica Maguire: BHSci MPhysio, Award-Winning Nervous System Educator

Rewiring Your Nervous System with the Vagus Nerve

Join vagus nerve expert, Jessica Maguire, as she leads an exploration into the exploding field of ‘vagus nerve science’, uncovering its extraordinary potential for transformative health. Delve deep into the intricate web of chronic stress and its pervasive impact on vital body systems, gaining invaluable insights into how the vagus nerve holds the key to profound relief for a spectrum of challenging health conditions. Through Jessica’s guidance, you’ll not only gain a comprehensive understanding of how the vagus nerve can re-wire the nervous system but also learn practical techniques to restore balance, unlocking the path to holistic well-being and inner equilibrium.

Saturday 3:45pm–4:30pm

Johann Hari: 3-time New York Times Best Selling Author

Lost Connections 

Join Johann Hari, the acclaimed author of Lost Connections, as he unveils the nine societal factors that underlie depression and anxiety. Through his insightful exploration, Hari encourages us to embark on a journey of introspection, urging a re-examination of our relationships with both ourselves and our communities. By embracing a holistic approach to mental well-being, you will not only gain valuable insights but also leave inspired, equipped with the tools to nurture the vital connections that sustain us all. Don’t miss this extraordinary session with a visionary thinker.

Sunday 8:30am–9:15am (Main Stage)

Dr Robynne Chutkan: Integrative Gastroenterologist, Microbiome Expert and Author

Dr Robynne Chutkan: The Latest Science in The Gut Microbiome

Uncover the keys to a long, healthy life from the perspective of your microbiome. Dr Robyne Chutkan brings you the latest science, from nurturing a robust gut microbiome and brain, to understanding the evolving landscape of food and nutrition, we’ll also dive into the effects of alcohol and the essential role of quality sleep.

Sunday 2:30pm–3:30pm (Main Stage)

Dr Robynne Chutkan: Integrative Gastroenterologist, Microbiome Expert, & Author 

The Gutbliss Method: Foundations for a Healthy Gut

In this workshop, participants will learn about the common disruptors of digestive health, and how to restore health and harmony to the gut eco-system.

Sunday 9:15am–10:00am 

Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall: River Cottage TV series, Author and Food Activist

Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall – Fireside Chat

Join us for an engaging ‘Fireside Chat’ session with renowned food activist, Hugh Fearnley Whittingstall. Delve into the importance of ‘going whole’ to understanding the significance of incorporating more plants into our diet. Hugh will discuss the pivotal role of sustainable eating in shaping a healthier future for all. Get ready for an insightful conversation that will inspire and empower you to make positive changes in your dietary choices and contribute to a more sustainable world.

Sunday 10:00am–11:00am (Main Stage)

Dr Chris Chappel: Functional Medicine Doctor

Expert Panel: Dr Ross Walker (Cardiologist), Dr Tetayana Rocks (Dietician – Food & Mood Centre at Deakin University) and Brett Cooper (Limestone Permaculture).

Expert Panel: The Evolution of Food: Why It’s Important For Our Health. Hosted by Dr Chris Chappel with expert guests Dr Ross Walker, Dr Tetayana Rocks, and Brett Cooper

Join Dr Chris Chappel, Functional Medicine Doctor, as he hosts an expert panel on the evolution of food and why it’s important. They’ll be exploring the evolution of food, its impact on our health, and the modern food system. Gain insights into mass production, farming practices, and additives, and hidden sugars. Discover how to make informed choices and take care of your health through the choices you make on your plate.

Sunday 12:00pm–12:45pm

Maz Compton: Author of Last Drinks

Expert Panel: Maz Compton (Author of Last Drinks), Dr Chris Chappel (Functional Medicine Doctor) Dr Ineka Whiteman (Neuroscientist) and Dr Buddhi Lokuge (Addiction Medicine Specialist).

Expert Panel: Alcohol: Are We Drinking Too Much? Hosted by Maz Compton with expert guests Dr Ineka Whiteman and Dr Buddhi Lokuge

Join Maz Compton, author of Last Drinks, as she hosts for this thought-provoking expert panel, as we delve into the multi-faceted topic of alcohol consumption and its impact on our health. We’ll be exploring everything from the physical impact of alcohol on our bodies, to its cultural appeal, which, let’s face it, sometimes feels a bit like the smoking trends of the ‘80s. Together, we’ll dissect how our perception of alcohol has influenced the way we drink and why we’re drawn to it. We’ll also examine the world of moderation and abstinence and how these choices can transform your overall well-being. So, grab a beverage (maybe a mocktail?) and get ready for a provocative conversation that might just change the way you look at that drink in your hand.

Sunday 3:30–4:30pm (Main Stage)

Dr Chris Chappel: Functional Medicine Doctor

Optimal Health from a Functional Medicine Perspective

Dr Chris Chappel is a Functional Medicine Doctor who wants us to be at our optimum health. But what actually is functional medicine? It’s medicine that addresses the underlying causes of disease, using a systems-oriented approach and engages both patient and practitioner in a therapeutic partnership. By shifting the traditional disease-centred focus of medical practice to a more patient-centred approach, functional medicine addresses the whole person, not just an isolated set of symptoms. Chris spends time with his patients, listening to their histories and looking at the interactions among genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors that can influence long-term health and complex, chronic disease. Using real-life case studies, Chris will show us how we can optimise our health and vitality by focusing on the foundations of health. Don’t miss this one!

Sunday 10:00am–11:00am (Main Stage)

Dr Chris Chappel: Functional Medicine Doctor

Expert Panel: Dr Ross Walker (Cardiologist), Dr Tetayana Rocks (Dietician – Food & Mood Centre at Deakin University), and Brett Cooper (Limestone Permaculture).

Expert Panel: The Evolution of Food: Why It’s Important For Our Health. Hosted by Dr Chris Chappel with expert guests Dr Ross Walker, Dr Tetayana Rocks, and Brett Cooper

Join Dr Chris Chappel, Functional Medicine Doctor, as he hosts an expert panel on the evolution of food and why it’s important. They’ll be exploring the evolution of food, its impact on our health, and the modern food system. Gain insights into mass production, farming practices, and additives, and hidden sugars. Discover how to make informed choices and take care of your health through the choices you make on your plate.

Sunday 11:15am–12:00pm (Main Stage)

Dr Dayan Goodenowe: Neuroscientist and Brain Health Expert

A Healthy Brain and the Latest Science

With his research-based approach, Dr Dayan Goodenowe explores the biochemical systems of our lives and arrives at real-world solutions for enhancing our resilience, vitality and longevity. This session will delve into understanding our brain’s health requirements, identifying factors leading to neurological issues, and exploring cutting-edge research that could revolutionise the treatment of neuro-diseases, particularly Alzheimer’s disease. Get ready to unlock the secrets of a healthier brain and a brighter future. Join us as we journey into the fascinating world of neuroscience and discover how it can transform our lives.

Sunday 12:00pm–12:45pm

Maz Compton: Author of Last Drinks

Expert Panel: Maz Compton (Author of Last Drinks), Dr Chris Chappel (Functional Medicine Doctor) Dr Ineka Whiteman (Neuroscientist) and Dr Buddhi Lokuge (Addiction Medicine Specialist).

Expert Panel: Alcohol: Are We Drinking Too Much? Hosted by Maz Compton with expert guests Dr Ineka Whiteman and Dr Buddhi Lokuge

Join Maz Compton, author of Last Drinks, as she hosts for this thought-provoking expert panel, as we delve into the multi-faceted topic of alcohol consumption and its impact on our health. We’ll be exploring everything from the physical impact of alcohol on our bodies, to its cultural appeal, which, let’s face it, sometimes feels a bit like the smoking trends of the ‘80s. Together, we’ll dissect how our perception of alcohol has influenced the way we drink and why we’re drawn to it. We’ll also examine the world of moderation and abstinence and how these choices can transform your overall well-being. So, grab a beverage (maybe a mocktail?) and get ready for a provocative conversation that might just change the way you look at that drink in your hand.

Sunday 12:00pm–12:45pm

Maz Compton: Author of Last Drinks

Expert Panel: Maz Compton (Author of Last Drinks), Dr Chris Chappel (Functional Medicine Doctor) Dr Ineka Whiteman (Neuroscientist) and Dr Buddhi Lokuge (Addiction Medicine Specialist).

Expert Panel: Alcohol: Are We Drinking Too Much? Hosted by Maz Compton with expert guests Dr Ineka Whiteman and Dr Buddhi Lokuge

Join Maz Compton, author of Last Drinks, as she hosts for this thought-provoking expert panel, as we delve into the multi-faceted topic of alcohol consumption and its impact on our health. We’ll be exploring everything from the physical impact of alcohol on our bodies, to its cultural appeal, which, let’s face it, sometimes feels a bit like the smoking trends of the ‘80s. Together, we’ll dissect how our perception of alcohol has influenced the way we drink and why we’re drawn to it. We’ll also examine the world of moderation and abstinence and how these choices can transform your overall well-being. So, grab a beverage (maybe a mocktail?) and get ready for a provocative conversation that might just change the way you look at that drink in your hand.

Sunday 10:00am–11:00am (Main Stage)

Dr Chris Chappel: Functional Medicine Doctor

Expert Panel: Dr Ross Walker (Cardiologist), Dr Tetayana Rocks (Dietician – Food & Mood Centre at Deakin University) and Brett Cooper (Limestone Permaculture).

Expert Panel: The Evolution of Food: Why It’s Important For Our Health. Hosted by Dr Chris Chappel with expert guests Dr Ross Walker, Dr Tetayana Rocks, and Brett Cooper

Join Dr Chris Chappel, Functional Medicine Doctor, as he hosts an expert panel on the evolution of food and why it’s important. They’ll be exploring the evolution of food, its impact on our health, and the modern food system. Gain insights into mass production, farming practices, and additives, and hidden sugars. Discover how to make informed choices and take care of your health through the choices you make on your plate.

Sunday 2:15pm–3:00pm

Dr Ross Walker: Consultant Cardiologist MB. BS (hons), FRACP, FCSANZ and Leading Preventative Health Expert

Epigenetics and Lifestyle

This enlightening session with leading Cardiologist, Dr. Ross Walker, will delve into the fascinating topic of ‘Epigenetics and Lifestyle’. Dr. Walker will demystify the concept of epigenetics, shedding light on how it governs the way genes express themselves without altering the underlying DNA sequence. You’ll gain a deep understanding of how lifestyle choices, such as diet, exercise, stress management, and environmental exposures, have a profound impact on these epigenetic marks. Dr. Walker will unveil the latest breakthroughs in the field, showcasing how cutting-edge research is revealing the remarkable potential to turn genes on and off through deliberate lifestyle modifications. Prepare to embark on a journey into the dynamic interplay between our genes and our choices, and discover how this knowledge empowers us to take charge of our own genetic destiny.

Sunday 1:30pm–2:15pm (Main Stage)

Dr Michelle Woolhouse (Holistic Doctor, Mind-Body Expert and Author) and Tim Veron (Tech Expert)

Measuring to Manage Health: Viva Festival’s ‘Wearables Showcase’

Join Holistic Doctor, Mind-Body Medicine Expert and author, Dr. Michelle Woolhouse, and tech expert, Vively’s Co-Founder & CEO, Tim Veron, as they delve into vital biomarkers and the latest wearable technology trends they are seeing on the Vively platform. Covering everything from continuous glucose monitoring to metabolic health metrics, this dynamic duo will guide you through essential measurements, while unravelling the underlying scientific principles. Acquire actionable insights for proactive health management, with practical tech applications. Don’t miss this chance to take charge of your health journey.

Sunday 11:30am–12:30pm (Drill Down stage and Workshops)

Vively Continuous Glucose Monitoring and Measuring

Transform your health with Continuous Glucose Monitoring

In this workshop, Holistic Doctor, Mind-Body Medicine Expert and author, Dr. Michelle Woolhouse, and Vively Co-Founder & CEO, Tim Veron, will show you, step by step, the path to obtaining irrefutable data about your metabolic health based on your unique blood sugar levels, and transform your health through personalised diet and lifestyle recommendations based on your own biology.

Sunday 3:30pm–4:15pm (Main Stage) (SYDNEY ONLY) 

Dr Michelle Woolhouse: Holistic Doctor, Mind-Body Medicine Expert and Author

Finding Balance: Understanding Hormones and their Balance 

Holistic Doctor, Mind-Body Medicine Expert and author, Dr Michelle Woolhouse, guides you through the ebbs and flows of a woman’s hormonal journey. She emphasizes the vital link between lifestyle choices and hormonal well-being. You’ll gain key insights into a holistic and lifestyle-orientated approach to well-being, learn how to identify disruptive toxins, and understand why embracing a more expansive approach is essential for achieving hormonal balance. This session culminates in a celebration of a woman’s body, reframing its changes as moments of triumph rather than apprehension. Finding Balance provides a concise roadmap to hormonal equilibrium, and, most importantly, fosters a deeper connection to your personal well-being.

Sunday 1:00pm–2:00pm (Drill Down Stage and Workshops) (MELBOURNE ONLY) 

Dr Libby Weaver: Nutritional Biochemist and Author

Overcome Overwhelm – Getting to the Heart of Stress 

If you’ve ever found yourself at the end of your tether—overextended, exhausted, or feeling like you might just snap—then you know overwhelm. 

Perhaps you suffer silently from anxious feelings, low moods or frequently find yourself up to the eyeballs in stress?

Or maybe you struggle with health complaints and, despite leading a healthy lifestyle, you feel like you’re always just trying to get well?

But as much as you try to slow down, reduce your burden or exercise your ‘no’ muscle, the stress just seems to keep piling on?

Stress and overwhelm are often the root cause for so many health challenges and it doesn’t need to be this way. 

It is possible to solve your stress once and for all. 

Join Dr Libby in her Viva Festival workshop, where you will learn to move from constantly feeling overwhelmed, to living a full and thriving life—without it costing you your mental, emotional and physical health in the process.

In this eye and heart opening session, Dr Libby will help you to understand the true cause of your overwhelm—and you might be surprised to know it has little to do with the number of items on your to-do list.

Sunday 3:00pm–3:45pm (Main Stage) (MELBOURNE ONLY) 

Dr Libby Weaver: Nutritional Biochemist and Author

Women’s Hormones & Detoxification

In this powerful one-hour seminar, Dr Libby gets to the heart of women’s wellness and explores how our hormones and detoxification systems have such a profound impact on each other.

Uncover the sources of your challenges, spot warning signs that your body is out of balance, and learn what women of all ages need to know about how our body and mind works.

With a natural ability to break even the most complex of concepts into layman’s terms, Dr Libby will explore women’s hormones and detoxification through her unique three-pillared approach that explores the interplay between nutrition, emotions and the biochemistry of the body.

This is a session for any woman who has a desire to live in a different way. Empower yourself with the knowledge to better understand your body and practical tools to improve your health and happiness – so you can create a life of exceptional health.

Sunday 4:15pm–5:00pm

Dr Stan Rodski: Peak Performance Neuroscientist

The Neuroscience of Excellent Sleep 

Sleep is critical to our wellbeing, and yet, over 60% of us endure average to very poor sleep in the false belief that there is very little we can do about it. With recent advances in neuroscience, this belief could not be further from the truth. Stan will demonstrate this neuroscience and how the brain sleeps and wakes with a participant in his session. He will also share some very practical brain based TIPS to help you improve not only your sleep, but your health and general wellness.

Saturday 11:30am–12:30pm

Speakers: Dr Lara Roeske (General Practitioner) and Dr Moira Junge (Health Psychologist, Sleep Expert & CEO Sleep Health Foundation)

Expert Panel: Growing Up Digital. Hosted by Dr Lara Roeske with expert guest Dr Moira Junge

Dr. Lara Roeske joins a panel of experts for a discussion around the digital habits of our kids and the impact on their developing brains, social interactions, and behaviours. We shed light on the positive  and negative sides of technology, from gaming and the surge in pornography, to screen time and keeping kids safe from online predators. Dr Moira Junge will discuss the impacts digital can have on sleep.

Saturday 11:30am–12:30pm

Speakers: Dr Lara Roeske (General Practitioner), and Dr Moira Junge (Health Psychologist, Sleep Expert & CEO Sleep Health Foundation) 

Expert Panel: Growing Up Digital. Hosted by Dr Lara Roeske with expert guest Dr Moira Junge

Dr. Lara Roeske joins a panel of experts for a discussion around the digital habits of our kids and the impact on their developing brains, social interactions, and behaviours. We shed light on the positive  and negative sides of technology, from gaming and the surge in pornography, to screen time and keeping kids safe from online predators. Dr Moira Junge will discuss the impacts digital can have on sleep.

Sunday 1:30pm–2:15pm (Main Stage)

Dr Michelle Woolhouse (Holistic Doctor, Mind-Body Expert and Author) and Tim Veron (Tech Expert)

Measuring to Manage Health: Viva Festival’s ‘Wearables Showcase’

Join Holistic Doctor, Mind-Body Medicine Expert and author, Dr. Michelle Woolhouse, and tech expert, Vively’s Co-Founder & CEO, Tim Veron, as they delve into vital biomarkers and the latest wearable technology trends they are seeing on the Vively platform. Covering everything from continuous glucose monitoring to metabolic health metrics, this dynamic duo will guide you through essential measurements, while unravelling the underlying scientific principles. Acquire actionable insights for proactive health management, with practical tech applications. Don’t miss this chance to take charge of your health journey.

Sunday 11:30am–12:30pm (Drill Down Stage and Workshops)

Dr Michelle Woolhouse (Holistic Doctor, Mind-Body Expert and Author) and Tim Veron (Tech Expert)

Vively Continuous Glucose Monitoring and Measuring

Transform your health with Continuous Glucose Monitoring

In this workshop, Holistic Doctor, Mind-Body Medicine Expert and author, Dr. Michelle Woolhouse, and Vively Co-Founder & CEO, Tim Veron, will show you, step by step, the path to obtaining irrefutable data about your metabolic health based on your unique blood sugar levels, and transform your health through personalised diet and lifestyle recommendations based on your own biology.

Saturday 2:00pm–3:30pm (Workshops)

Rachel de Thample: Fermentation and Seasonal Health Expert

Fermentation with Rachel de Thample

In this demonstration-led workshop, Rachel de Thample  – Seasonal Health and Fermentation Expert from River Cottage UK – will show you hands-on ways to bring bubbly ferments like sauerkraut, kimchi and kombucha, to life. Her session will inspire you to dive into the kitchen to get creating, and when you do, your mind, tongue and tummy will thank you.

Sunday 10:00am–11:00am (Drill Down Stage)

Rachel de Thample: Fermentation and Seasonal Health Expert

Fermentation for the Microbiome

Dive into the delicious world of ferments. Rachel de Thample, Seasonal Health and Fermentation Expert from River Cottage UK, will show you how these magic creations will tantalise your tastebuds while boosting your gut health. In an engaging and enthusiastic lecture, she’ll take you through a wide variety of easy-to-make ferments you can create at home – inspiring you with fun flavours that you can add, such as: foraged finds, seasonal produce, and herbs and spices which further enhance fermented foods nutritional profile.

Saturday 9:15am–10:15am (Main Stage)

Dr Ali Walker: Australia’s leading Connection Scientist

CLICK OR CLASH? with Dr Ali Walker

Get ready for this captivating discussion with Dr Ali Walker, Australia’s leading Connection Scientist. Her book, Click or Clash?, is a roadmap to more joyful relationships and a greater sense of belonging. Dr Walker, author, former criminal lawyer turned mediator, and founder of innovative profiling organisation, Ality, has used her unique ‘Connection Type’ model to decode the mysteries of human connection. Join us as she shares the secrets to understanding our personal connection style, and those of the people in our life, helping us build stronger bonds and reduce conflicts in every sphere – from work to friendships, family, and romance. She’ll explore the 17 Connection Types, frequency, and intensity preferences and why we click with some folks and clash with others. Join us for an illuminative conversation that promises to transform our understanding of human connections and well-being.

Saturday 1:15pm–2:00pm (Main Stage)

Sarah Grynberg: Host of A Life Of Greatness podcast

In Conversation with Sarah Grynberg: Wisdom On How To Live A Life Of Greatness. Hosted by Dr Ali Walker

Sarah Grynberg, a highly regarded teacher in mindset and manifestation and the host of the podcast, A Life Of Greatness, offers profound insights into realising your utmost potential. With an abundance of research, she shares proven strategies for crafting the life you’ve always envisioned. Sarah seamlessly integrates her personal experiences, extensive research, and transformative teachings in mindset and manifestation, empowering you to create the life of your dreams.

Sunday 10:00am–11:00am (Main Stage)

Dr Chris Chappel: Functional Medicine Doctor

Expert Panel: Dr Ross Walker (Cardiologist), Dr Tetayana Rocks (Dietician – Food & Mood Centre at Deakin University) and Brett Cooper (Limestone Permaculture).

Expert Panel: The Evolution of Food: Why It’s Important For Our Health. Hosted by Dr Chris Chappel with expert guests Dr Ross Walker, Dr Tetayana Rocks, and Brett Cooper

Join Dr Chris Chappel, Functional Medicine Doctor, as he hosts an expert panel on the evolution of food and why it’s important. They’ll be exploring the evolution of food, its impact on our health, and the modern food system. Gain insights into mass production, farming practices, and additives, and hidden sugars. Discover how to make informed choices and take care of your health through the choices you make on your plate.

Sunday 9:00am–9:45am (Main Stage)

Brett Cooper: Permaculturist

Limestone Permaculture: Homesteading and Permaculture

Limestone Permaculture’s one-acre farm exemplifies regenerative living. Brett and Nici Cooper transformed it into a permaculture oasis, featuring smart water management systems, off-grid solar power, 500+ fruit and nut trees, and self-sufficient resources like herbs, veggies, honey, and poultry. Join Brett Cooper as he spills the beans on how permaculture principles brought their homesteading vision to life, and how these principles can apply for any home – urban or rural. 

Sunday 4:00pm–4:45pm

Dr Jessica Turton: Dietician and Nutritionist

Understanding Nutrient-Dense Eating for Optimal Health

Join Dr. Jessica Turton as she dispels diet confusion and misinformation, emphasising that the key to optimal health lies in the prioritisation of nutrient-dense real foods. Delve into the science behind the essential components of a healthy diet and learn how nourishing your body with more of the right types of foods can positively impact your mental and physical health, while boosting your metabolism to support long-term weight management. Gain invaluable insights into building a nourishing, health-focused dietary plan tailored to your unique goals and preferences, guided by the expertise of Dr. Jessica Turton, a dietician and nutritionist with a PhD in the field.

Saturday 12:00pm–1:30pm

Lisa Rice-Rickman: Clinical Hypnotherapist and NLP Practitioner

Unlocking The Power Of Your Subconscious and How it Shapes Your Life

Join Lisa Rice-Rickman at Viva Festival for a dynamic Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) workshop. Uncover the subconscious beliefs shaping your life and learn transformative NLP techniques. Gain stress-coping tools, visualization skills, and harmonise gut-brain-heart coherence. Conclude with a potent meditation-hypnosis fusion for a life filled with joy, love, and purpose.

Sunday 1:00pm–2:00pm

Jeanette Padilla: Functional Medicine Health Coach

Detox Your Life

Meet Jeanette Padilla, a Functional Medicine Health Coach, who’s here to explore how you can detox your life. She’ll dive into everything – from what you can eat, to the chemicals and additives you encounter every day. Jeanette will also share some practical steps to help you identify and reduce your family’s exposure to the toxins of our modern world, so that you can embrace a cleaner, healthier lifestyle.

Saturday 10:00am–11:30am

Chel King: Transpersonal Art Therapist & Usui Reiki Master Teacher
Xavier King: Transpersonal Clinical Hypnotherapist & Usui Reiki Master Teacher

Reiki and Meditation with Xavier and Chel King

Experience the magic of energy healing with Chel and Xavier King at the Viva Festival! Their Reiki Workshop will guide you through a transformative journey, uncovering the secrets of this ancient practice to bring peace, strength, and tranquility into your life. Say goodbye to stress and anxiety, and hello to a renewed sense of calm and inner power. Join them for an unforgettable session that goes beyond regular meditation, revealing the limitless possibilities of Reiki. Everyone’s welcome, no prior experience needed!

Saturday 10:00am–11:30am

Chel King: Transpersonal Art Therapist & Usui Reiki Master Teacher
Xavier King: Transpersonal Clinical Hypnotherapist & Usui Reiki Master Teacher

Reiki and Meditation with Xavier and Chel King

Experience the magic of energy healing with Chel and Xavier King at the Viva Festival! Their Reiki Workshop will guide you through a transformative journey, uncovering the secrets of this ancient practice to bring peace, strength, and tranquility into your life. Say goodbye to stress and anxiety, and hello to a renewed sense of calm and inner power. Join them for an unforgettable session that goes beyond regular meditation, revealing the limitless possibilities of Reiki. Everyone’s welcome, no prior experience needed!

Sunday 10:00am–11:00am

Dr Moira Junge: Health Psychologist, Sleep Expert & CEO Sleep Health Foundation

Reset Sleep Workshop

Join Cuppa.tv’s Luke Cook as he hosts Dr. Moira Junge’s workshop, “Reset Sleep”. Dr. Junge, sleep expert and CEO of the Sleep Health Foundation, will delve into the intricate landscape of sleep, offering insights to reset and optimise this fundamental aspect of health. Dr. Junge will uncover essential sleep facts, debunk myths, and provide practical strategies tailored to enhance sleep quality, particularly during challenging periods. From establishing soothing habits for mental health to effectively managing shift work and addressing sleep difficulties across pivotal life stages like adolescence, menopause, and aging. This workshop empowers you with actionable steps to reset your perceptions and improve sleep, paving the way for a revitalised approach to a healthier and well-rested life.