Carey Mencarini is the Founder of IV Lounge Drip Bar and Wellness Spa and Owner of Liv Optimal Health and Wellness, an award-winning author, and a dedicated advocate for holistic health and well-being.

Her journey in healthcare began in high school as a nursing assistant and evolved into a role as a medical assistant, gaining hands-on experience across diverse healthcare settings—from specialized clinics to hospital environments. In her thirties, Carey pursued a nursing degree with the goal of becoming a Physician Assistant.

Life took an unexpected turn when chronic illnesses impacted her own health. What could have been a setback became a transformative moment: Carey discovered the power of alternative and holistic therapies, sparking a mission to help others reclaim their health naturally.

With extensive certifications in the health and wellness field, Carey now empowers clients through coaching, education, and personalized care. Her thriving wellness businesses and published works inspire others to embrace holistic healing, proving that detours in life can lead to purpose, passion, and renewed vitality.

Explore Carey’s award-winning book online: https://www.amazon.com/-/he/Carey-Mencarini/dp/1966419023

Originally from Vancouver Island, Russell Floyd has called Prince George, British Columbia home since 2014. He is the owner and operator of Backcountry Blacksmiths, a mobile farriery business serving equine athletes and working horses across Northern BC. A 2003 graduate of the Olds College Farrier Program, Russell began his career balancing horseshoeing with guiding hunting expeditions in BC’s wilderness—a passion that eventually led him north.

Russell is among only three Canadians to earn the prestigious Associate of the Worshipful Company of Farriers (AWCF) designation. He is also a Certified Journeyman Farrier with the AFA and holds the Advanced Skills Farrier certification through the Farrier International Testing System. A seasoned competitor, Russell has represented Canada as a three-time member of the Canadian Farrier Team, led the inaugural North 49 season in 2022, and continues to compete in the Western Canadian circuit and the World Championship Blacksmiths (WCB) series.

Education is central to Russell’s mission. He contributes regularly to the Anatomy Corner of the FAWS newsletter, serves as an examiner for the AFTC apprenticeship program, and shares his expertise through clinics, dissection labs, and mentorship on topics including limb anatomy, case studies, competition preparation, business development, and professional mindset. As a six-time past president of the Western Canadian Farriers Association, he remains dedicated to raising industry standards.

Russell and his wife, Anya, an equine veterinarian, aspire to open a collaborative clinic integrating farrier and veterinary care. He proudly supports local equine events, including Rodeo PG and North Central BC CADORA shows, and continues to guide part-time through the Guide Outfitters Association of BC. Prince George provides the perfect backdrop for his outdoor lifestyle, which includes fishing, hunting, camping, skiing, hiking, and snowmobiling. Recently, Russell graduated from the Western College of Auctioneering, donating his time to help local clubs and associations fundraise through auctioneering.

Passionate about financial literacy, business development, and skilled trades, Russell believes trades are the backbone of strong communities. His goal is to keep learning, keep building, and achieve the Fellowship of the Worshipful Company of Farriers, while mentoring the next generation of tradespeople to build sustainable, fulfilling careers.

Michelle Houston — Founder & Visionary, To Be Honest Beverage Co.

Michelle Houston is the Founder and Visionary behind To Be Honest Beverage Co., where she’s redefining drinking culture with mindful, non-alcoholic functional spirits. Through her work, she invites people to explore the sober curious movement, discover a style of drinking that aligns with their lifestyle, and witness what it takes to build a purpose-driven brand from the ground up. Michelle is passionate about ensuring every consumer feels like the main character in their own story—and she empowers fellow female entrepreneurs to create brands that challenge the status quo and reflect the change they want to see in the world.

Nearly four years ago, Michelle made what she thought would be a temporary choice: to step away from alcohol while navigating struggles with mental health and anxiety. What began as a short break quickly revealed profound benefits—more energy, clarity, and motivation. Despite prioritizing movement, sleep, and self-care, she realized alcohol had been quietly undermining her well-being.

As weeks turned into months and then years, Michelle embraced life alcohol-free—and noticed a major gap in the market for sophisticated, celebratory non-alcoholic options. Determined to change that, she co-founded To Be Honest Beverage Co. with her husband, who brings over a decade of experience in alcohol production and manufacturing.

From day one, Michelle has built the brand around a simple but powerful mission: to empower people to live intentionally, make mindful choices, and celebrate without compromise. She is part of a growing movement reshaping how we gather, connect, and raise a glass—proving that drinking less doesn’t mean living less.