The Winter Leadership Summit

Sun Valley, ID

5th Annual Winter Leadership Summit

REGISTER TODAY!

Event Information

We are excited to bring to you the fifth annual Winter Leadership Summit. This year’s event will be held Sunday March 8th through Wednesday March 11th, 2026, at the iconic Sun Valley Lodge. Experience an event like no other – The Winter Leadership Summit, where the top professionals in the behavioral healthcare field gather. This isn’t just a standard conference; it’s an inspiring marketing event centered around peer-driven leadership education.

The unique format is designed to foster intimate partnerships with hand-picked professionals from some of the top organizations across the nation. But we’re aiming for more than just partnerships. We hope that as a result of your participation in this event, you’ll form lifelong friendships and establish mentorship connections that will enrich your professional journey. Join us for this transformative experience.

Event Details

  • Starts: Sunday, March 8, 2026
  • Ends: Wednesday, March 11, 2026
  • Where: Sun Valley Idaho

We ask that you please plan on being present with us the entirety of the summit. With an action-packed schedule filled with fun activities and leadership presentations for everyone to enjoy together. We are asking participants to please not schedule events within the timeframe of the Winter Leadership Summit. Given the intimate nature of the summit, exclusive events are strongly discouraged. We appreciate your understanding. We want everyone who has been invited to arrive and be present for the first speaker, attend all scheduled events and return home inspired after the last presenter. We want all our presenters to be honored and supported. Our intention is to learn, connect and bond as a group of professionals. The best leadership is by example, we want to honor the leader within us all.

  • Itinerary

Sunday, March 8th

2 pm - Arrivals

4-6pm - Opening Meet and Greet

6pm - Opening Presentation Sponsored by Hosts Jaywalker

7pm - Dinner Hosted by Eagle Creek Ranch Recovery

Monday, March 9th

7am - Open 12 step meeting

8am - Breakfast Sponsored by New Day Recovery Services

9:30am - Open Ski Session

3:30pm - Ski Break Sponsored by Youth Prevention Mentors

5:00pm - 2025 Lifetime Leadership Award Recipient - Dr Louise Stanger

7:30pm - Dinner Sponsored by High Watch Recovery Center

Tuesday, March 10th

7am - Open 12 step meeting

8am - Breakfast Sponsored by Borden Cottage

9:30am - Open Ski Session

3:30pm - Ski Break Sponsored by Clere Consulting

5:00pm - 2026 Lifetime Leadership Award Recipient – Doug Lyons

7:00pm - Dinner Sponsored by You Are Accountable

8:30pm-Nightcap

Wednesday, March 11th

7am - Open 12 step meeting

8am - Breakfast sponsored by Oak Forest Recovery

11am - Departure

Registration & Accomodations

REGISTER ($799.99)

Sun Valley Lodge

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Sun Valley Inn

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Purchase Your Ikon Ski Passes!

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  • Click Here to purchase Sun Valley Day Passes at a discounted rate, starting at $141 a day.
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Ski & Snowboard Rentals

With three convenient locations just steps from the chairlifts, Pete Lane’s Mountain Sports is your go-to destination to get outfitted for ski and snowboard rentals for the whole family, beginners to experts. All rental packages include complimentary overnight storage just steps from the lifts.

Discounted rentals are available by reserving in advance online until 48-hours before pickup.

RESERVE YOUR RENTALS

Become a Sponsor

$11K

Powder Package

  • Exclusive to only top 3 sponsor
  • Dinner sponsor presentation
  • Large logo presented on all marketing materials
  • Premium branded gift required
  • (1) Registration included

$7.5K

First Run Package

  • Exclusive to only 3 sponsor
  • Breakfast sponsor presentation
  • Large logo presented on all marketing materials
  • Premium branded gift required
  • (1) Registration included

$6.5K

Ski Break Package

  • Exclusive to only 3 sponsor
  • Break sponsor presentation
  • Medium logo presented on all marketing materials
  • Premium branded gift required
  • (1) Registration included

$5.5K

Fireside Package

  • Exclusive to only 3 sponsor
  • Nightcap sponsor presentation
  • Medium logo presented on all marketing materials
  • Standard branded gift required
  • (1) Registration included
FIRESIDE SPONSOR

$3.5K

Evergreen Package

  • Exclusive to only 4 sponsor
  • On or off mountain break or activity
  • Small logo presented on all marketing materials
  • Small branded gift required
  • (1) Registration included
EVERGREEN SPONSOR

$2.5K

Snowflake

  • Exclusive to only 5 sponsor
  • Small logo presented on all marketing materials
  • Small branded gift required
  • (1) Registration included
SNOWFLAKE SPONSOR

Proud Sponsors of the 5th Annual Winter Leadership Summit

POWDER - Level One
FIRST RUN - Level Two
SKI BREAK - Level Three
FIRESIDE CHAT - Level Four
EVERGREEN - Level Five
SNOWFLAKE - Level Six

Lifetime Leadership Award

The Winter Leadership Summit’s Lifetime Leadership Award honors an individual whose career has made a profound and enduring impact on the behavioral health and recovery field. This prestigious recognition is reserved for leaders who have dedicated their lives to advancing excellence, innovation, and compassion in service to others.

Recipients of the award embody the values of vision, integrity, and mentorship, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire future generations of professionals. The Lifetime Leadership Award is a highlight of the Summit each year, celebrating those whose contributions have transformed lives and strengthened our community.

Meet Our Guest Speakers

Andrew Maloof
CEO / Co Owner

Eagle Creek Ranch

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Kendall Maloof, LMFT
Clinical Director

Eagle Creek Ranch

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Luke Cuccia
CMO/ Co Owner

Eagle Creek Ranch

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Andrew Roberts
Chief Executive Officer

HighWatchRecovery.org

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Amy McLaren
Chief Operating Officer

HighWatchRecovery.org

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Matthew Serel
Co-Founder, CEO

youareaccountable.com

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Ben Hammond, BBA
Co-Founder, CEO

NewDayRecoveryServices.com

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Sam Ribeiro, MSW, LMSW
Executive Director

NewDayRecoveryServices.com

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Jo-Ann Cook, LCSW
Clinical Director

BordenCottage.com

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Jeff Jay
President & CEO

BordenCottage.com

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Dr. Patrick Lockwood
Doctorate of Psychology

OakForestRecovery.com

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Maks Ezrin
Chief Executive Officer

YouthPreventionMentors.com

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Jack Vaughan
Chief Operations Officer

YouthPreventionMentors.com

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Doug Lyons
Co-Founder

ClereConsulting.com

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Sam Dresser, M.B.A.
Co-Founder

ClereConsulting.com

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Amy Prouty, MSW, C.A.D.C.
Partner

ClereConsulting.com

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Neely Carlton Lyons, JD.
Consultant
ClereConsulting.com
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We look forward to seeing you there!

REGISTER TODAY!

Neely Carlton Lyons, JD.

Consultant

ClereCounseling.com

“Being a good listener” is how Neely Carlton Lyons describes her approach to helping individuals and families navigate addiction and mental health challenges. With a career rooted in law, politics, and advocacy, Neely’s philosophy is simple: meet people where they are and work collaboratively to find solutions tailored to their unique needs.

Neely brings a wealth of experience from serving at the highest levels in all three branches of state government. She made history as the youngest-ever elected Mississippi State Senator at age 25, where she championed policies addressing the intersection of public health and public safety, including addiction, mental health, domestic violence, and child protection. Her professional journey also includes serving as a Law Clerk to a State Supreme Court Justice, Chief of Staff at the Mississippi Department of Public Safety, and Counsel to the Governor Haley Barbour. In her legal practice, she represented behavioral health providers and professionals seeking to rebuild their careers after struggles with addiction or mental health issues.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Neely’s personal life has been touched by addiction and mental health challenges within her own family. This 360-degree perspective – blending political expertise, professional insight, and personal understanding – allows Neely to connect deeply with clients. “I have been on the other side of the conversation asking for support and recommendations,” she shares. “There is hope for your loved one and your family.”

Neely was trained in the ARISE Intervention Model and the International Certified Recovery Specialist program, equipping her to guide families through recovery. In addition to supporting families, she collaborates with executive management teams and law firms to provide addiction and mental health resources to employees. “Success in business often means hiring experts to bridge a knowledge gap,” Neely explains. “If you’re struggling to approach a colleague about getting help, that’s where we come in.” She also works with organizations to develop return-to-work plans grounded in recovery best practices.

A writer, national speaker, and passionate volunteer, Neely dedicates her time to recovery-focused organizations. She was recognized with the Champion in Recovery Award in 2020 by the Mississippi Drug and Opioid Summit and the Mississippi Business Journal’s Healthcare Hero Award in 2017 for her advocacy and volunteer work in support of recovery communities.

Neely’s empathy, expertise, and experience make her a trusted partner for individuals, families, and organizations seeking guidance in addiction and mental health recovery.

Amy Prouty, MSW, C.A.D.C.

Partner

ClereCounseling.com

Amy Prouty is a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor with extensive experience in treating addiction and expertise in parent/child dynamics. She prides herself in “walking through the fire with families,” helping families restore, or develop for the first time, age appropriate and functional family roles — moving people from policing to parenting, over-dependence or over-functioning to independence and integrity. She has served two – and sometimes three – generations of the same family, which is indicative of the level of trust and longevity of relationships with her clients.

Her role with Clere Consulting calls upon her specific skills in assessing and eliminating enabling behaviors, facilitating relationships (especially defining expectations and reintegrating recovering addicts into the family) and developing and executing working contracts between parents and young adults – a linchpin in the Clere Process. Prouty is known to bring levity to the process when appropriate, because as she explains, “When a family is ready to call us and take action, that’s the good news! The years of suffering and deal-making it took to get to that place of readiness — that was the hard part, that was the tragedy. When the work begins that’s where hope and liberation are found.”

Before joining Clere Consulting, Prouty was in private practice for three years in Lake Oswego, OR. Her areas of focus included group facilitation, family education, invitational and Johnson Model interventions, recovery coaching, treatment center matching and liaison, and case management. She was the exclusive continuing care referral source for graduates of Hazelden’s Springbrook Treatment Center, facilitating four weekly continuing care groups for Hazelden graduates. She had to increase the number of groups offered to accommodate the clients wanting to continue attending after the customary twelve weeks.

Prior to launching Strategic Intervention and Recovery Services, Prouty served as a focal therapist and family counselor at Hazelden Springbrook. Prouty began her work in the field of addiction as a counselor at a boys’ residential treatment center, then managed a non-profit organization championing the importance of early literacy as a foundation for academic success and emotional wellbeing. Prior to entering the field of addiction she was an advertising executive at a large Portland agency. “I had to change careers once I found recovery because copy deadlines and campaign strategies no longer held the same level of importance for me they once did. Prior to recovery, meeting a print deadline felt like a matter of life and death. After recovery, real life and death matters became important.”

That foundation in childhood education plays out in how she deals with families. “I relish really getting in there and clearing issues out with a family but doing it from a very human and humble place where we’re working together. I’m not dictating to the family what’s right or what’s wrong. We’re trying to solve problems together.”

Prouty received her Bachelor’s from the University of Portland and her Master’s in Social Work from Portland State University. She has been in recovery since 1999.

Samuel Dresser, M.B.A.

Co-Founder

ClereCounseling.com

Sam Dresser has over 30 years of experience working in the Substance abuse field, and also holds a Masters in Business Administration. His areas of expertise are: addiction education and awareness, the clinical needs of the affluent/prominent demographic (as well as high-level professionals), family dynamics generated by addiction, effectual leverage techniques to encourage addicts and alcoholics to seek help, reintegrating addicts into family systems and tailoring strategies for post-treatment recovery.

Sam is a well-recognized and solicited presenter/writer in the field*. His wide array of clinical skills, business acumen and demonstrated leadership ensure that Clere Consulting consistently delivers exceptional outcomes.

Prior to founding Clere Consulting with Doug Lyons, Sam served as a counselor, clinical supervisor and clinical director at the Hazelden Foundation. As clinical director, he led the design and implementation of post-treatment services, a pioneering aftercare model called The MORE Program, the main tenets of which are outcome-based clinical strategies for long-term recovery and relapse prevention.

With his business background, Sam has emerged as an in-demand resource where addiction, affluence and business intersect, primarily in family business settings. He provides expert advice to addicts and their families, as well as their advisors and trustees, on the complexities that arise when family enterprises are affected by addiction treatment and recovery. He has a proven understanding of the connection between addiction and affluence and the challenge of sustainable recovery for those who experience a different set of consequences as a result of such privilege.

In this particular segment of his work, Sam specializes in collaborating with single/multifamily offices, attorneys and advisors to family businesses to create tailored, long-term, effective strategies to positively promote change in addicted family members and employees. He is also proficient in facilitating/moderating conflict among ownership groups, collaboration and consultation with other advisors on succession planning, and coaching recovering executives. His family business consulting does include circumstances where addiction is a non-factor, but conflicts and behavioral issues are affecting the family and business.

Sam attended St. Olaf College and Bethel University and received his MBA from the University of St. Thomas. He has been in recovery since December 11, 1989.

Doug Lyons

Co-Founder

ClereConsulting.com

Doug Lyons has more than 35+ years of experience as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor and holds a Certificate in Family Business Advising from the Family Firm Institute. His expertise is in the design of complex solutions for individuals, families and family businesses struggling with substance abuse and/or family business dysfunction. Doug has a history of working effectively in collaborative settings with multi-family offices and wealth advisors. He is a highly sought-after lecturer and speaker, having presented to the Family Firm Institute in Europe and the United States as well as the Northwest Institute of Addiction Studies, The Dallas-Fort Worth Behavioral Health Symposium, The Axis CORE Conferences, The Mississippi Heroin and Opioid Summit, and the Hazelden Foundation’s continuing education programs to name a few.

In his 15 years with Hazelden, Doug chaired the Clinical Leadership Team at Hazelden’s Oregon facility, co-chaired the National Chemical Dependency Team and served as the Director of Clinical Services. In an earlier role as Chemical Dependency Evaluation Director, he conducted or supervised more than 2,400 chemical dependency evaluations for celebrities and high-profile public figures as well as airline pilots, CPAs, lawyers and physicians.
Before helping to found Clere Consulting, Doug worked for a wealth management firm as a family wealth advisor, assisting client families with the complexities of addiction and other dysfunctions.

Doug served as Vice President and Executive Board member for the Oregon Prevention, Education and Recovery Association, a consortium of all major chemical dependency treatment providers in Oregon.

Doug also served for over 10 years on the Executive Board of Lines for Life, a nationally recognized, nonprofit organization whose mission is to end substance abuse and prevent suicide.

Doug has a Bachelor’s degree in Management and Organizational Leadership from George Fox University. He has been sober since November 18, 1989.

Jeff Jay

President, CEO

BordenCottage.com

Jeff Jay is an internationally recognized clinician and author with more than three decades of leadership in the fields of addiction and mental health recovery. He brings a deep commitment to compassionate, individualized care for clients and their families.

Jeff co‑authored Love First: A Family’s Guide to Intervention (with Debra Jay, 2021, Hazelden), now in its third edition and widely regarded as the definitive resource on structured family intervention. His work has been featured in national media, and he has trained professionals across the country in best practices for helping families and individuals find lasting recovery.

Known for combining clinical expertise with a family‑centered approach, Jeff has spent his career helping patients and families find healing, and long‑term success. At Borden Cottage, he leads a highly specialized team dedicated to serving individuals of means and prominence who seek discreet, world‑class treatment in a setting of exceptional beauty and privacy.

Matthew Serel

CEO, Co-Founder

YouAreAccountable.com

My Truth
Eight years ago today I overdosed on Oxycodone in a hotel room on a work trip.

I woke up in the hospital ICU unable to breathe, not knowing where I was, or how I got there. I only survived that day because my wife, girlfriend at the time, was nervous that I didn’t answer my phone.

Today, I celebrate eight years sober from drugs and alcohol.

The Outsiders Perspective
For those of you who know me professionally or peripherally the fact that I was a junkie for much of my early and mid twenties may be a surprise to you.

From the outside looking in the trajectory of my life both before and after I got sober looks uninterrupted and what I would picture as ideal:

I started my first technology company in high school.

I graduated from Lehigh University.

I attended Brooklyn Law School at night while starting a technology company.

I founded and sold AccuPoint which is now one of the largest technology vendors in the Autism Behavioral Health space.

I married my best friend that I started dating when I was 18, and we now have a beautiful daughter, a very handsome son, and an awesome dog.

However, in reality, there was so much pain and struggle beneath the surface. The last two items on that list almost never happened.

Behind The Highlight Reel
Recovery from addiction is hard. It is really, really hard. What I detail below really only scratches the surface of my experience.

I remember the fear and shame of being told I needed to go rehab for my addiction.

“What will my friends think? What will happen to my company? What if my partners and clients find out?”

I remember getting back from treatment and my relationships being in shambles.

“How can I hang out with my friends who drink? Will Becky ever see me the same way? How will I go to bachelor parties? How will I get married? How will I enjoy life?”

Lastly, I remember feeling like it would have been easier if I just died on that day 8 years ago.

Unfortunately, like many chronic diseases, my experience is that there is no addiction cure. However, there is treatment that can help you process and put your addiction in remission. For me, getting clean from drugs and/or alcohol was the easy part. Staying clean, and living a happy and free life is the hard part.

This is what my treatment consisted of:

30 Days at an inpatient rehab, followed by

8 Weeks in an intensive outpatient program – 3 hours a day, 4 days a week starting at 6pm, followed by,

3 months in a less intensive outpatient program – 1.5 hours a day, 2 days a week, starting at 6pm, concurrently with

1 hour a week of psychotherapy, concurrently with

Participation in peer support groups, concurrently with

Random drug testing

Thankfully, while this was all incredibly hard work, isolating, and immensely time consuming, I was extremely fortunate. I was fortunate because I had health insurance and a familial support system that helped guide me towards quality care in a time where I was in no shape to take care of myself.

I survived that day 8 years ago because my wife was concerned about me. I live today because of the countless people who helped me get back on my feet.

If you or anyone you know are struggling with addiction, there is hope, it can get better, I’m here for you, and I love you.

Luke Cuccia

CMO, Co-Owner

Eagle Creek Ranch

Luke Cuccia is a co-owner of Eagle Creek Ranch Recovery and has worked in the addiction recovery field for over a decade. With a deep passion for helping men build meaningful lives in sobriety, he focuses on guiding individuals toward long-term recovery, health, and abundance.

Before co-founding Eagle Creek Ranch Recovery, Luke worked in business development and operations for 449 Recovery. In addition to his professional work, he volunteers at music festivals, creating safe, sober spaces for attendees who choose to live a life that is drug- and alcohol-free.

Outside of his work, he’s an avid Dodgers fan, attending as many games as possible each season, and enjoys snowboarding whenever he gets the chance. His commitment to recovery isn’t just a career—it’s a way of life that he’s dedicated to sharing with others.

Kendall Maloof, LMFT

Clinical Director

Eagle Creek Ranch

Kendall Maloof is the clinical director at Eagle Creek Ranch Recovery. She is a licensed marriage and family therapist and has held multiple leadership roles before settling here at Eagle Creek. Kendall received her master’s degree in marriage and family therapy from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology in 2016. Her career in mental and behavioral health began in 2014 when she took up internships in both the nonprofit and for profit sectors. She interned at multiple reputable companies, such as The Living Success Center and 449 Recovery in California.

In 2019, Kendall became the clinical director of Sunsets Recovery for Woman, a dual diagnosis program in southern California. Kendall is a natural leader. She has an incredible ability to problem solve and stay calm in any situation. Kendall never fails to show up when she is needed, and her calm demeanor makes her team and clients feel at ease. Eagle Creek Ranch Recovery is proud to have Kendall as our clinical director.

Andrew Maloof

CEO, Co-Owner

Eagle Creek Ranch

Andrew Maloof is the CEO and cofounder of Eagle Creek Ranch Recovery, a premier treatment center dedicated to helping individuals overcome addiction and achieve lasting recovery. With a degree in hospitality management from UNLV and over a decade of experience in behavioral health, Andrew brings a unique blend of compassionate care and strategic leadership to the field.
Beginning his career as a drug and alcohol counselor in 2014, Andrew quickly transitioned into leadership roles, excelling in business development and marketing. He has held key positions at several reputable treatment centers, including 449 Recovery, Pacific Palms Recovery, Milestone Addiction Centers, and Safe Harbor. His expertise in marketing and business development has played a pivotal role in expanding access to high-quality addiction treatment.

In 2022, Andrew partnered with Luke Cuccia to establish Eagle Creek Ranch Recovery, with the mission of providing a supportive and transformative environment for those battling addiction. His dedication to innovative treatment approaches and client-centered care continues to drive the success and growth of the organization.

Outside of work, Andrew enjoys spending time with his family, including his wife, Kendall, and their three sons, Benjamin, Elias, and Samuel. He is also passionate about Dodger baseball, golf, politics, and skiing.

Sean McGowan

Sr. Dir. of Continuing Care

HighWatchRecovery.org

Bio Coming Soon!

Cynthia Mejorado-Flint

VP of Business Development

HighWatchRecovery.org

“I love High Watch, our people, and our program. My role is to spread the word about High Watch’s excellence in the field. My team and I partner with healthcare providers to get their patients into High Watch where we know they will receive best in class care.

I believe that strong ethical practices are the most important thing when sharing the message about the care we provide.”

Cynthia has over twenty years of experience in healthcare sales and outreach. She has been with High Watch for over a decade. She works to build strong relationships with healthcare providers who trust High Watch to give their patients the best chance at a successful recovery. She has developed a network of colleagues across the nation who trust her to do what is best for incoming guests and their families.

Andrew Roberts

Chief Executive Officer

HighWatchRecovery.org

“I have been engaged in the process of recovery since 1987. In 2001, I relapsed and found my way to High Watch, lost and in need of treatment. I felt the spiritual energy on the Hill of Hope the moment I arrived. My experience at the farm transformed my life for the better. It is filled with amazing people who really understand the disease of addiction and taught me everything I needed to know to recover again and lead a productive and peaceful life. And that is exactly what I did.

Fast forward to January 2024, when a recruiter who did not know me or my history contacted me about an East Coast job opportunity. My wife Mimi thought it might be at High Watch, as we have often joked about it being a good role for me. A week later, I received confirmation that the new job opportunity would be to lead High Watch, the world’s oldest treatment center, with direct ties to Bill Wilson, co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous. I knew then, and I know now that this is my calling.

In life, I believe we all strive to reach our full potential and be the best version of ourselves. This incredible opportunity is the chance of a lifetime to serve others. I feel honored to bring my experience and knowledge to a place that changed my life. I want to show the world what I and a legion of others see in High Watch and convey to everyone who needs it that recovery is not only possible, but in fact likely if they are willing to take the first step.”

Andrew’s professional journey is a testament to his leadership and commitment to serving others. He has held impactful leadership positions, including serving as the COO of Volunteers of America OH & IN, CEO of Central Ohio YMCA, and CEO of Greater Waterbury YMCA. His role as a health care consultant for PriceWaterhouseCoopers, his consultancy at Triangle2 Solutions and his management of the strategy and operations for a national substance abuse resource center at Join Together at Boston University School of Public Health further highlight his expertise in leading and influencing other business leaders. Andrew holds a master’s degree in business administration from Harvard University (MBA) and a master’s of management in human services from The Heller School at Brandeis University (MMHS).

Andrew loves spending time with his wife, Mimi Rivard, an award-winning nurse practitioner serving specialized populations, and their three children, Simone, Andre, and Derara. In his spare time, Andrew rides his road and mountain bike at ever-decreasing speeds and distances, and cheers on his three children, who all play soccer!

Robert Schwarz

VP of Admissions

HighWatchRecovery.org

“My role is to break down barriers to recovery. When someone battling addiction comes to us seeking help, the admissions staff and I do whatever it takes to get that person into High Watch. I know this is the best place with the best people and we in admissions are the gateway to the help guests need.”

Rob has been with High Watch since 2007 and ensures that individuals in need of assistance can be placed with us immediately.

He works directly with guests, their families and caregivers to navigate the insurance approval process and to make arrangements for self-paying individuals. Rob believes that it is essential that individuals seeking help with their addiction not be turned away. The fact that they have come to High Watch seeking help is so important and there may not be another opportunity to get that person on the road to recovery.

Rules of Participation

We ask that you please plan on being present with us the entirety of the summit. With an action-packed schedule filled with fun activities and leadership presentations for everyone to enjoy together. We are asking participants to please not schedule events within the timeframe of the Winter Leadership Summit. Given the intimate nature of the summit, exclusive events are strongly discouraged. We appreciate your understanding. We want everyone who has been invited to arrive and be present for the first speaker, attend all scheduled events and return home inspired after the last presenter. We want all our presenters to be honored and supported. Our intention is to learn, connect and bond as a group of professionals. The best leadership is by example, we want to honor the leader within us all.

Invite Only

This is an invite only, exclusive event for all registered participants. If you received an invitation to this year’s event, you were hand selected to be part of this amazing experience. This year’s invitees are eligible to use the registration link on this site, your full name and email address is required. Registrations will be at a first come first serve basis, once the event capacity has been met no additional attendees will be able to register for the event. We encourage you to register as soon as possible as we have sent more invitations than we have space for.

Jack Vaughan

Jack Vaughan

Chief Operations Officer

YouthPreventionMentors.com

Jack Vaughan is the Chief Operations Officer of Youth Prevention Mentors. As COO, Jack has spearheaded many successful collaborations with the senior leaders of major behavioral health organizations. In addition to writing the YPM blog, newsletter, and handbook, Jack has also designed the innovative EF12™ program and curriculum which has become a staple of YPM’s services. As a professional coach and companion, Jack has worked on several long-term companion cases across the country and has coached/companioned individuals with a wide array of struggles.
Having faced his own personal struggles with ADHD, executive functioning, and bipolar, Jack is well-attuned to the trials and difficulties of late youth and early adulthood.

Above all else, Jack is deeply passionate about helping each and every family that comes to YPM and is relentless in his pursuit to provide them with the best possible support. He also has his Recovery Coach Professional (RCP) designation from CCAR and is working toward his CIP certification.

Maks-Ezrin

Maks Ezrin

Chief Executive Officer

YouthPreventionMentors.com

Born and raised in New York, Maks Ezrin had his own experience with early addiction. As a child, Maks enjoyed everything the city had to offer. He attended the best schools, maintained a rigorous course load, enjoyed a wide and varied social circle, and had the support of a loving family.

Despite these advantages, by age 14, Maks began experimenting with drugs and alcohol. His substance dependence worsened during college, eventually leading to a near-fatal overdose in his early-20s. Through the help of friends and family, Maks has been sober since 2016.

Recognizing the importance of early detection and support of sober mentors, Maks has dedicated himself to giving back by helping other young pre-addicts. His experience propelled him to connect with leaders in the addiction and recovery field to raise awareness and help mitigate the effects of addiction- the ‘silent problem’ most families don’t notice until it is too late. Together with Natasha Silver Bell, an internationally recognized figure in the recovery field, and Dr. Rami Kaminski, a renowned pioneer in the psychiatric field, Maks founded Youth Prevention Mentors.
In addition to his CARC certification, Maks has received a Masters in Applied Positive Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania.

Dr.-Chantelle-Thomas

Dr. Chantelle Thomas

Executive Clinical Director

WindRoseRecovery.com

Dr. Chantelle Thomas, Windrose Recovery’s Executive Clinical Director, is a Clinical Psychologist specializing in addiction treatment, trauma, and health psychology. Windrose Recovery’s family of treatment programs includes The Manor, Positive Sobriety Institute, and Integrata. Dr. Thomas began her career as the Program Director for a dual-diagnosis addiction and trauma treatment center in Malibu, California. After receiving her PhD in Clinical Psychology, she completed her internship and post-doctoral fellowship in Health and Rehabilitation Psychology at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Mental Health. While there, she gained specialized expertise in medical-surgical consultation, trauma-informed therapy, and chronic pain treatment.

Through the University of Wisconsin’s School of Family Medicine, Dr. Thomas then joined Access Community Health Center as a Behavioral Health Consultant to primary care physicians where she innovated the development of a substance use disorder consultation clinic embedded within primary care. Dr. Thomas is also involved in clinical research trials at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health investigating psilocybin for various substance use disorders and other clinical indications. Her background in research-supported treatment modalities directly informs her ability to ensure the most effective interventions are incorporated into Windrose Recovery’s treatment programs.

Kevin Bandy

Kevin Bandy, CAP, ICDAC

Co-Founder, Exec. Director

VoyageRecovery.com

Kevin co-founded Voyage after two decades of experience in substance use disorder treatment. Kevin’s passion is working with young men and their families, and he has developed multiple family recovery programs over his years in the field. He believes that recovery is possible for all members of the family and that long term remission must be a team effort. When he is not working with patients or families, you’ll find Kevin immersed in the experiential programming at Voyage. He’s a passionate ambassador of recovery in the sun and saltwater of beautiful South Florida, and is committed to helping young men find and nurture their passion while in treatment.
Robby Stempler

Robby Stempler

Founder, CEO

Pretaa.com

Robby Stempler is a pioneering figure in the realm of addiction treatment, renowned as the CEO and founder of Hygea Healthcare is a network of esteemed treatment centers dedicated to battling addiction and fostering recovery. Stempler’s journey into this vital field was inspired by a profound awareness of the gaps in existing rehabilitation services. Having battled his addiction to Vicodin, Stempler intimately understands the challenges and complexities individuals face on the path to recovery.

His introduction to the behavioral healthcare space began during his tenure at KIPU, an electronic medical records software startup focused on serving addiction treatment facilities. Stempler’s firsthand experience with addiction, coupled with his expertise in technology and healthcare, fueled his passion to innovate and improve the landscape of addiction treatment. Kipu is the industry standard EMR for addiction treatment centers, which was sold in January of 2021 for over $290 million to TCV Partners. KIPU currently has over 2,000 addiction treatment facilities utilizing its software.

Armed with comprehensive knowledge of rehabilitation practices, Stempler embarked on his mission to address the pressing need for enhanced detox and recovery facilities, particularly in the Los Angeles area. In 2015, he took the pivotal step of founding Malibu Detox is a beacon of hope for individuals grappling with addiction. Stempler’s vision was rooted in providing compassionate, evidence-based, individualized care that prioritized not only detoxification but also the essential aspects of long-term recovery. He grew Malibu to 5 properties before selling in June 2023.

The genesis of Malibu Detox marked the beginning of Stempler’s unwavering commitment to transforming lives and communities ravaged by addiction. Witnessing the revolving door of clients seeking treatment, only to relapse and return, Stempler recognized a dire need for sustained, high-quality residential care. This realization propelled him to expand his endeavors to his hometown of Baltimore, MD, culminating in the establishment of HYGEA Healthcare.

Under Stempler’s visionary leadership, Hygea Healthcare has emerged as a beacon of excellence in addiction treatment, offering a comprehensive continuum of care tailored to individual needs. Stempler’s approach emphasizes holistic healing, integrating evidence-based therapies, personalized treatment plans, and a nurturing environment conducive to long-term recovery.

Most recently, drawing from his experiences and insights, Stempler founded Pretaa in 2022, an innovative monitoring and outcome measurement platform designed to provide valuable insights on clients through biometric data. Pretaa’s initial strategic partnership was with Google’s Fitbit device. Currently over 25 facilities are using Pretaa to help with their clients’ treatment plans and aftercare services.

Prioritizing individualized treatment paths, Robby sees success as going beyond just whether or not clients stay clean and sober. “How is the job going? How are your bills? How are the family, friends, and support relationships? There are a million data points we can look at…Outcomes are the most important thing.”

Taking what he has learned throughout his life, from his own experience with formal education to his work in multiple industries, Robby’s vision is to alter the course and find a better way.

“Unless I am disrupting, I am bored. The goal is to spread this so we can impact more than the clients at the facility that are inside our four walls. There are multiple ways to do that, especially with the utilization of technology. The goal is to positively impact people’s lives on the largest scale possible.”

Sam Riberio

Sam Ribeiro, MSW, LMSW

Executive Director

NewDayRecoveryServices.com

After earning his bachelor’s degree from Ohio University, Sam pursued a master’s degree in social work, reflecting his commitment to helping others. Sam’s work at New Day is especially meaningful to him as he is in long-term recovery from alcohol and substance use. With deep roots in fostering safe spaces for personal growth, he pours his knowledge of the field, and a passion for client care, into everything he does. On weekends, you can find him enjoying sports, whether it’s a race, game, or match. Sam is a true East Coaster, hailing from Long Beach, New York. He has a passion for pizza and believes that it must be top-notch, never settling for anything less.
Ben Hammond

Ben Hammond, BBA

Co-Founder, CEO

NewDayRecoveryServices.com

Ben has served our recovery communities for over 20 years. His history in wellness began as an owner of recovery homes and guiding experiential adventure trips across North America. As a person in long term recovery, Ben also specializes in areas of the pre-treatment process and post treatment process, including interventions, relapse prevention, life and recovery coaching, and educating and empowering families. Ben is a long-time resident of San Antonio along with his wife Margaret and daughter Elizabeth Grace. Ben attended TCU as a geology major and the University of Texas at San Antonio with a BBA in Entrepreneurship. Somewhere along the way almost every clinician, client and family member encounter Ben. The experience and skill set he brings to New Day Recovery Services will allow advancement and sustainability to our mission.

“I feel blessed to be a part of such a fine recovery program and community in the area I grew up in. New Day provides the ethical space to serve high quality outpatient care, delivering a diversity of proven therapeutic experiences.

I feel confident our model and team of licensed clinicians will offer each client and family member the compassion, expertise and opportunity to live a successful and purpose driven life. Designing long term recovery goals and achieving them will be a mainstay of our commitment to the individual, the families, the workplace, and the communities they live in.”

Dr.-Adam-McLean

Dr. Adam McLean

Clinical Psychologist

TheGuestHouseOcala.com

Dr. Adam McLean is a clinical psychologist at The Guest House Ocala. He completed his doctorate in clinical psychology at California University, focusing on positive psychology and comparative mythology. Dr. McLean continues to research positive psychology, trauma, and addiction to better advise those with maladaptive coping behaviors and their families. He places a heavy emphasis on the intricacies of betrayal trauma and works passionately to help those with substance use disorder, PTSD, and co-occurring disorders. Dr. McLean’s education and experience have enabled him to assist hundreds of families in getting their loved ones into treatment. Outside of his work in behavioral health, Adam enjoys spending time with his son, Jack.

Jill Krush

Jill Krush, MS, LPC, NCC

Chief Clinical Officer

ChoiceHouseColorado.com

Jill Krush is a master level clinician and nationally known therapist, coach, trainer, speaker, and educator. She is known for her whimsical nature in telling the truth when it’s hard to do so, through action methods, such as psychodrama. She walks with others in staying grounded in their strengths and post traumatic growth to explore more deeply areas that require attention. She leads professional trainings, workshops, and personal growth intensives all over the country. She holds the position of Chief Clinical Officer at Choice House, a male specific treatment continuum in Boulder, Colorado. In addition, she serves with ONSITE workshops, Braveheart and the REAL Platform.

Dr. Kenny Spielvogel

Dr. Kenny Spielvogel

Board-certified Physician

CarraraTreatment.com

Dr. Kenneth Spielvogel is a board-certified Physician with a focused interest in addiction medicine. He is dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to patients throughout all stages of life. With nearly 30 years of experience, he combines his expertise with a genuine warmth and attentiveness, making him a trusted choice for patients seeking personalized healthcare. From Inspiration to Dedication: Inspired by his father’s career in medicine, Dr. Spielvogel followed his own path, choosing to specialize initially on women’s health. Seeing the devastation of drug and alcohol use disorders on his patients, he focused his continuing education on all aspects of addiction medicine. He continues to integrate this knowledge into both inpatient and ambulatory care.

Full scope treatment of addiction and recovery A Personalized Approach: Dr. Spielvogel believes in building strong relationships with his patients. He takes the time to understand their individual needs and concerns, tailoring his approach to ensure they feel heard and supported. He also speaks fluent Spanish, enabling him to serve a diverse community. Beyond the Exam Room: Dr. Spielvogel is passionate about empowering patients to make informed decisions about their health. He enjoys counseling patients on healthy lifestyle choices, including weight management, and stays up-to-date on the latest advancements in all aspects of healthcare.

Education and Affiliations:

Medical Degree: George Washington University School of Medicine
Residency: University of Colorado Health Sciences Center
Board Certification: American Board of Obstetrics & Gynecology

Tom Rodman

Tom Rodman

Founder and CEO

BordenCottage.com

Tom Rodman, the Founder and CEO of Borden Cottage, embodies a lifelong commitment to service and a fervent dedication to addressing the complex challenges of substance abuse disorder and mental health. Beyond being a mere occupation, leading Borden Cottage is Tom’s purpose and passion, driven by a profound personal connection to the issues at hand.

Raised by a minister father who instilled in him the value of serving others, Tom’s journey began in the Native American communities of Wyoming. His service extended to the Army Corps of Engineers, where he held the rank of Captain, and later as the Co-founder and Chairman Emeritus of STRIVE International. STRIVE, an attitudinal training and workforce development program, has left an indelible mark, having been replicated in 12 U.S. cities, ten locations in Israel, and three in the United Kingdom, positively impacting the lives of over 90,000 individuals facing disadvantage and chronic unemployment.

Despite the positive influence of his father, Tom’s personal life was touched by tragedy when he lost his father to a prescription drug overdose at the age of 51. This painful experience, compounded by Tom’s own struggles with alcohol a decade later, fueled his commitment to the transformative power of recovery, now spanning over 45 years.

In 2013, an opportunity arose for Tom to acquire a picturesque estate in Mid-Coast Maine, overlooking the Penobscot Bay. This estate became the canvas for Borden Cottage, envisioned as a world-class Residential Treatment Program in collaboration with McLean Hospital. Tom’s motivation was deeply rooted in contemplating the generational impact that a similar program might have had on his father’s life. From the outset, Borden Cottage was meticulously designed to offer evidence-based substance use and mental health treatment modalities for individuals with substance abuse disorder and co-occurring diagnoses.
Before founding Borden Cottage, Tom enjoyed a distinguished 40-year career on Wall Street, holding key positions at Smith Barney, Lehman Brothers, Alex Brown, and Deutsche Bank, demonstrating his versatility and leadership in diverse environments.

In September 2023, the partnership with McLean Hospital concluded, marking a pivotal moment as Tom and his team assumed full operational control of Borden Cottage. Under his visionary leadership, Borden Cottage continues to stand as a beacon of hope, providing comprehensive care and support to those on the path to recovery. Tom Rodman’s journey is not just a professional trajectory but a personal quest to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals grappling with substance abuse and mental health challenges.

Jo-Ann-Cook

Jo-Ann Cook, LCSW

Clinical Director

BordenCottage.com

As Clinical Director of Borden Cottage, Jo-Ann brings strong clinical acumen, leadership and compassion to her work, which spans more than four decades in the field of mental health. Jo-Ann has been an integral part of the team since 2015, providing individual, group and family therapy, while also spearheading the Mindfulness and Art Therapy programs. She offers invaluable expertise in the evaluation and treatment of a wide range of complex diagnoses, including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Addiction, Mood and Personality Disorders.

Jo-Ann moved to Maine in 1977, and began her career as a social worker in 1979. Graduating from the University of Connecticut School of Social Work in 1988, Jo-Ann has dedicated her 36 year private practice career to working with individuals, couples and families, children and adults. The backbone of her practice is the firm belief that healing takes place in the context of relationship and connection. “Family-integrated and trauma-informed care is essential to our work at Borden, healing relationships that have been fractured by addiction. Our interventions aim to provide optimal support for the family system. These are the building blocks to ensure a life in recovery.”

Jo-Ann has extensive experience in the design, implementation and oversight of specialized mental health services, in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She has maintained contracts with the Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Corrections to provide evaluation and treatment to individuals and families who have been impacted by trauma and adverse childhood experiences. She has provided comprehensive forensic evaluations and expert testimony in Maine courts. Having served as a Field Instructor in the University of Maine School of Social Work, MSW program, Jo-Ann is firmly committed to training future clinicians.

Jo-Ann’s commitment to mental health advocacy extends beyond her clinical practice. She is dedicated to increasing public awareness and reducing stigma about mental health, addiction and trauma. She provides workshops, trainings, and has founded nonprofit organizations supporting this effort. As a former Commissioner and Co-Chair of the Maine Family Law Advisory Commission, she has played a crucial role in advising the Maine legislative and judicial branches on the complexities of mental health, thus influencing substantial legislative reforms.

Central to her therapeutic approach is Mindfulness, an evidence-based practice which cultivates attention and awareness, or what she calls “everyday neuroscience.” “When our residents understand the intricacies of the human mind, the science of addiction, and the science of meditation, they undergo a profound transformation and liberation from the constraints of the addictive mind. Mindfulness is a powerful practice for leading a life aligned with our values. Integrating this understanding into a sustained mindfulness practice cultivates empowerment, choice and well-being.”

Jo-Ann has been pivotal in optimizing art therapy as a critical component within the healing journey at Borden. “By creating a safe and nurturing environment, residents are invited to engage in the process of making art. Resourced with expressive materials and therapeutic support, they tap into their inherent creativity to access the ‘raw material’ of the mind, fostering healing, self-awareness and self-expression. This is where the transformative journey unfolds. This is where the magic happens.” Jo-Ann’s passion and unwavering commitment to the well-being of our residents is abundantly evident. “At Borden Cottage, it is such a privilege to be a part of this team of highly competent and compassionate colleagues who are firmly dedicated to the health of the individuals and families that we serve. The healing we witness is profound.”

When not on the Borden Cottage campus, Jo-Ann can be found building, stone work, rowing, kayaking, making art, volunteering, and enjoying all of the wondrous beauty that Midcoast Maine has to offer.

Patrick Lockwood

Dr. Patrick Lockwood

Doctorate of Psychology

OakForestRecovery.com

Dr. Patrick Lockwood grew up in a small southern Missouri town, enculturated with classical southern and Midwestern values like honesty, integrity, and the “neighborly” way of relating to people. He completed his B.A. in psychology at the University of Missouri, then moved to L.A. to earn his Doctorate of Psychology at TCSPP.

Dr. Lockwood has worked for non-profits, treatment centers, and has been a part of a number of startups over the past 15 years. His background in community interventions began before he even graduated from the University of Missouri where he successfully co-authored a grant creating a virtual intervention to help parents on campus become more connected and develop a support community while working at ParentLink, a division of the university’s College of Education.

Dr. Lockwood has trained with experts in the field of addiction treatment and has worked at every level of the mental health and addiction treatment industry for the past 15 years. He also has a podcast on YouTube about topics related to mental health, wellness, psychology, and neuroscience called “The Psychology Checkup.” Finally, Dr. Lockwood is the author of “The Fear Problem,” a book integrating the neuroscience and evolutionary psychology of our fear process to explain why we get triggered by politics and other “hot topics.” Currently Dr. Lockwood is a professor at California Lutheran University and is the COO of Oak Forest Recovery Center. He also serves on the board of The Friendly House, the country’s oldest women’s treatment program, and is clinical advisor to T.J. Woodward’s “Conscious Recovery.”