Spoke Founder & Facilitator, Lia Avellino

Lia Avellino, CEO of Spoke Circles, is a relational and somatic psychotherapist who supports individuals and groups in being real and vulnerable. She believes deep and intentional connection is the balm for healing and has committed her professional life to bringing therapy science and ethos into community spaces. She has received awards for innovative research and excellence in therapeutic care to underserved populations. Lia's writing and commentary have been featured in various publications, including GLAMOUR magazine, The American Journal of Sexuality Education, Best Life, ABC's The Tamron Hall Show, Cosmopolitan, Men's Health, CNBCs MakeIt, and Motherly.

Exhibiting Artist + Author of the book Nature of Surf Women

Ivana Bajic, a Los Angeles-based multimedia producer specialized in developing projects that merge art and technology. Her work ranges from artificial intelligence startups to eminent artists, including Marina Abramovic and Jeff Koons. Her clients include the British Society of Cinematographers and Warner Bros. Studios. Author and producer of the interactive book Nature of Surf Women. Author and producer of the project Nature of Sur Women. She is currently working on a documentary film about Surf Therapy.

Director Riding the Rhythms + Founder of Wave Maiden

Margaux Moses, a Southern California-bred water baby relocated to the East Coast after losing her botanical brewery in Los Angeles to COVID. Inspired by her passion for earth activism, she founded Wave Maiden, an eco surf wax made with 100% organic and biodegradable plant oils. Her new life has provided her with friends, community, and opportunities to live in a respectful relationship with Mother Earth. She reflects on the duality of warm/cold months and the impact of winter surfing on her adventurous life. She aims to share her experiences and support women's representation in board sports.

Founder of GroundSwell Surf Therapy

Natalie Small, the founder of GroundSwell Surf Therapy, is a passionate advocate for the healing power of nature. With a background in counseling and a deep love for the outdoors, she has seamlessly merged her expertise to create transformative therapy experiences in natural settings. Natalie's mission is to help individuals connect with nature as a source of healing, growth, and personal discovery, making a positive impact on their mental and emotional well-being.

Author of the book “WIll to Wild”

Shelby Stanger, a seasoned adventure journalist, discovered her passion for storytelling at a young age when she penned her first article for a national publication at 15. Throughout her career, she has embarked on remarkable journeys, from standup-paddling in the Peruvian Amazon to covering the Vans Warped Tour and surfing across various locales. Shelby's storytelling prowess has been showcased in numerous publications, including Outside Magazine, ESPN, CNN.com, and Shop-Eat-Surf.com, where she interviewed prominent CEOs, entrepreneurs, and pro athletes. Before transitioning to a full-time storyteller and consultant, Shelby played a pivotal role at Vans, where she contributed to women's branding and international marketing in the Americas and Australasia. Her expertise extends to consulting for renowned brands like Nike, PrAna, and Body Glove.

Author of the book “Women Making Waves”

Lara Einzig, the author of "Women Making Waves," has captured the stories of 26 extraordinary female surfers from across the globe. Through interviews and photography, Lara explores their diverse experiences, ranging from activism to adventure. Her work reveals the profound impact of surfing, connecting humanity with the ocean and its power to inspire purpose, healing, and community. Lara's book invites readers to dive into the world of surf culture and share in these remarkable stories.oes here