As workplace wellness continues to gain prominence globally, leaders from various fields are contributing innovative approaches to foster healthier, more resilient organizations. These individuals are reshaping how companies address mental, physical, and emotional well-being, driving success through sustainable, human-centered strategies. Here’s a look at 36 leaders who are making a significant impact in workplace wellness:
Dr. Taryn Marie Stejskal
Dr. Taryn Marie Stejskal is a renowned expert in resilience and leadership, holding a Ph.D. in Clinical and Industrial-Organizational Psychology. As the Founder and Chief Resilience Officer (CRO) of Resilience Leadership, she has developed the empirically-based Five Practices of Particularly Resilient People. Dr. Stejskal is a #1 international bestselling author, a TEDx speaker, and has been featured in major media outlets. Her work focuses on helping individuals and organizations build resilience to navigate challenges and achieve success.
Sami Hossny
Sami Hossny is a seasoned HR professional with over 15 years of experience in talent acquisition and development. As the Founder and CEO of TalentPal, he leverages his expertise in recruitment marketing, employer branding, and HR technology to help organizations attract and retain top talent. Sami is passionate about creating positive workplace cultures and has been recognized as a thought leader in the HR and recruitment space.
Julius Thomas
Julius Thomas is a former NFL player turned wellness advocate and mental health professional. With a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology, Julius now focuses on helping athletes and professionals navigate mental health challenges. As a Mental Performance Coach and Therapist, he combines his firsthand experience as a professional athlete with his academic background to provide unique insights into performance psychology and personal development.
Kelsea Warren
Kelsea Warren is a Workplace Wellbeing Coach and Organizational Consultant specializing in helping high-achieving professionals build multidimensional careers without compromising their values or wellbeing. With a background in positive psychology and organizational behavior, Kelsea offers coaching services and workshops that focus on creating sustainable work-life integration and fostering positive workplace cultures.
Ashwani Deswal
Ashwani Deswal is a Life & Mindfulness Coach with over 13 years of experience in corporate wellness. As the founder of Mindful Science Centre, he has coached more than 100,000 people across 120+ countries. Ashwani specializes in stress management, mindfulness practices, and personal development, helping individuals and organizations cultivate resilience and improve overall wellbeing through evidence-based techniques and personalized coaching programs.
Charlène Gisèle Bourliout
Charlène Gisèle Bourliout is a High Performance Health Coach and Workplace Wellness Consultant with a unique background as a former corporate lawyer. She specializes in helping high-achieving professionals and organizations optimize their health, productivity, and performance. Charlène’s approach combines evidence-based strategies with practical tools to address burnout, stress management, and work-life balance. As a sought-after speaker and coach, she has been featured in prominent publications like The Times and Financial Times, sharing her expertise on sustainable high performance and holistic wellbeing.
Sierra Hillsman
Sierra Hillsman is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and the CEO of Legacy Speaks, LLC. With a focus on workplace wellbeing, Sierra helps professionals conquer stress and amplify their success through therapy, coaching, and consulting services. Her expertise spans mental health, stress management, and personal development, making her a valuable resource for individuals and organizations seeking to improve their overall wellbeing and performance. Sierra’s approach emphasizes the importance of mental health in achieving professional success and maintaining a balanced life.
Dr. Lauren Appio
Dr. Lauren Appio is a licensed psychologist, executive coach, and consultant specializing in workplace mental health and professional development. With a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology, she brings a unique blend of clinical expertise and practical business acumen to her work. Lauren focuses on helping professionals navigate career transitions, overcome imposter syndrome, and develop leadership skills. Through her private practice and consulting work, she offers individual therapy, coaching, and workshops aimed at fostering mental health awareness and creating psychologically healthy workplaces.
Alessa Caridi
Alessa Caridi is a dynamic Workplace Wellness Coach and Organizational Consultant with a passion for helping computer-based professionals build productive workdays without compromising their health. As the founder of JobBodyFit, she leverages her expertise in movement science and workplace ergonomics to create tailored wellness solutions for individuals and organizations. Alessa’s unique approach combines physical well-being with productivity strategies, addressing the challenges of sedentary work environments. With a background that includes a Ph.D. in Kinesiology and extensive experience in corporate wellness, Alessa is dedicated to transforming workplace health through innovative programs and consultations that promote both employee well-being and organizational success.
Vivian Acquah
Vivian Acquah is a Certified Diversity Executive (CDE®) and a prominent voice in workplace wellness and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). As the founder of Amplify DEI, she coaches, trains, and consults on creating inclusive and thriving workplaces. Vivian is recognized as a LinkedIn Top Voice and hosts the “Global Inclusion in Practice” podcast, sharing insights from DEI change-makers worldwide. Her multifaceted approach combines workplace wellness advocacy with DEI expertise, making her a sought-after speaker and consultant for organizations aiming to foster healthier, more inclusive work environments.
Dr. Michael Greger
Dr. Michael Greger is a renowned physician, New York Times bestselling author, and internationally recognized speaker on nutrition, food safety, and public health issues. As the founder of NutritionFacts.org, he has dedicated his career to promoting evidence-based nutrition and its role in preventing and reversing chronic diseases. Dr. Greger’s work focuses on translating complex scientific research into practical dietary advice, making him a leading voice in the plant-based nutrition movement. His commitment to providing free, up-to-date nutritional information has made him a trusted resource for both individuals and organizations seeking to improve health through dietary choices.
Arianna Huffington
Arianna Huffington is a renowned entrepreneur and wellness advocate who has made significant contributions to both media and workplace well-being. As the founder and CEO of Thrive Global, she is dedicated to ending the stress and burnout epidemic by offering science-based solutions to enhance well-being, performance, and purpose. Her transition from leading The Huffington Post to focusing on employee wellness demonstrates her commitment to transforming workplace culture and promoting holistic health.
Adam Grant
Adam Grant is a prolific organizational psychologist, bestselling author, and influential thought leader in the realm of workplace dynamics and personal development. As Wharton’s top-rated professor and host of the WorkLife podcast, he combines academic rigor with practical insights to help individuals and organizations thrive. Grant’s work on topics such as motivation, creativity, and resilience has earned him recognition as one of the world’s 10 most influential management thinkers, making him a key figure in shaping modern approaches to work and well-being.
Dr. Brené Brown
Dr. Brené Brown is a research professor at the University of Houston and a visiting professor at the University of Texas at Austin’s McCombs School of Business. As the founder and CEO of Brené Brown Education and Research Group, she has become a globally recognized expert on courage, vulnerability, shame, and empathy. Brown’s groundbreaking work has transformed the conversation around leadership, workplace culture, and personal growth, inspiring millions to embrace vulnerability as a path to stronger connections and more authentic living.
Dan Harris
Dan Harris is a former ABC News anchor turned meditation advocate and entrepreneur. After experiencing a panic attack on live television, Harris embarked on a journey that led him to discover the benefits of mindfulness and meditation. As the co-founder and CEO of Ten Percent Happier, he has created a platform that makes meditation accessible to skeptics and beginners alike. Harris is also a bestselling author and podcast host, known for his relatable approach to mindfulness and his mission to help people become “10% happier” through practical meditation techniques. His work bridges the gap between traditional meditation practices and the fast-paced modern world, making him a key figure in bringing mindfulness to the mainstream.
Gretchen Rubin
Gretchen Rubin is a renowned author, speaker, and podcast host who has dedicated her career to exploring human nature and happiness. As the author of several New York Times bestsellers, including “The Happiness Project” and “Better Than Before,” Rubin offers insightful strategies for developing good habits and creating happier, more fulfilling lives. Her work extends beyond personal development to encompass workplace wellness, providing valuable insights on how to foster positive environments that promote both productivity and well-being. Through her books, podcast, and speaking engagements, Rubin continues to inspire millions to make positive changes in their personal and professional lives.
Dr. David Katz
A preventive medicine specialist and founder of the True Health Initiative, Dr. Katz offers evidence-based approaches to health and wellness that can be implemented in corporate settings.
Jen Fisher
Jen Fisher is a prominent voice in the field of workplace well-being and human sustainability. As the former Chief Well-being Officer at Deloitte US, she pioneered a holistic and inclusive well-being strategy that gained recognition from leading business media. Fisher is a bestselling author, TEDx speaker, and host of the WorkWell podcast series, focusing on creating work environments that prioritize employee health and happiness. Her personal experience with burnout and breast cancer has fueled her passion for advocating women’s health and promoting a sustainable work culture. Fisher’s work emphasizes the interconnection between various aspects of human life, including climate sustainability, equity, trust, purpose, well-being, and belonging, making her a key figure in shaping the future of work.
Dr. Ron Goetzel
Dr. Ron Goetzel is a leading authority in the field of health and productivity management and workplace health promotion. As a Senior Scientist and Director of the Institute for Health and Productivity Studies at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, he has made significant contributions to understanding the relationship between health and work performance. Dr. Goetzel’s research focuses on the impact of corporate health promotion and wellness programs on organizational success. With over 200 publications and numerous awards, including the prestigious C. Everett Koop National Health Award, he continues to shape policies and practices that promote employee well-being and organizational effectiveness.
Laura Putnam
Laura Putnam is a workplace wellness expert, author, and dynamic keynote speaker who is passionate about helping organizations create thriving cultures of well-being. As the CEO and founder of Motion Infusion, she brings her background in urban public health and experience as a dancer to deliver innovative solutions for employee health and engagement. Laura is the author of the top-selling book “Workplace Wellness That Works” and has reached over 100,000 business leaders through her workshops and presentations. Her unique approach combines evidence-based strategies with creativity and movement, inspiring companies to reimagine workplace wellness and foster environments where employees can flourish both personally and professionally.
Dr. Joel Kahn
A cardiologist and professor of medicine, Dr. Kahn advocates for plant-based nutrition and preventive health strategies in corporate settings.
Nataly Kogan
Nataly Kogan is a renowned entrepreneur, speaker, and author dedicated to helping millions of people improve their emotional fitness and thrive in work and life. As the founder and CEO of Happier, she has developed science-backed skills and practices that boost well-being and performance. Nataly’s journey from Russian refugee to successful tech executive to burnout survivor informs her mission to make emotional health accessible to all. Her bestselling book, “The Awesome Human Project,” and her engaging keynotes have inspired individuals and organizations worldwide to cultivate resilience, manage stress, and foster a culture of emotional well-being. Nataly’s unique blend of scientific research, personal experience, and practical strategies makes her a leading voice in the field of workplace wellness and emotional intelligence.
Dr. Michelle Segar
Dr. Michelle Segar is a behavior change scientist and sustainable motivation expert who has dedicated her career to revolutionizing how we approach health and wellness. As the Director of the University of Michigan’s Sport, Health, and Activity Research and Policy Center, she conducts groundbreaking research on what motivates people to choose and maintain healthy behaviors. Dr. Segar’s evidence-based approach, detailed in her book “No Sweat,” challenges traditional notions of motivation and offers practical strategies for lasting behavior change. Her work has significantly influenced workplace wellness programs and public health initiatives, making her a sought-after speaker and consultant for organizations aiming to improve employee well-being and engagement.
Dr. Jeffrey Pfeffer
Dr. Jeffrey Pfeffer is a renowned organizational behavior expert and the Thomas D. Dee II Professor of Organizational Behavior at the Stanford Graduate School of Business. With over 15 books and 150 articles to his name, Dr. Pfeffer has made significant contributions to our understanding of power, leadership, and workplace dynamics. His recent work, including the book “Dying for a Paycheck,” focuses on the detrimental effects of modern work environments on employee health and well-being. Dr. Pfeffer’s research challenges organizations to prioritize human sustainability and create healthier workplace practices, making him a influential voice in the field of organizational health and workplace wellness.
Liz Hilton Segel
Liz Hilton Segel is a senior partner at McKinsey & Company and a leader in the firm’s global consumer and retail practice. With over three decades of experience, she has been instrumental in shaping strategies for Fortune 500 companies and driving organizational transformations. While her primary focus is on business strategy, Liz’s work often intersects with employee well-being and organizational health, recognizing their crucial role in business success. Her leadership in McKinsey’s initiatives on diversity, inclusion, and talent development underscores her commitment to creating positive workplace environments that foster both individual and organizational growth.
Dr. Amit Sood
Dr. Amit Sood is a globally recognized expert in resilience, well-being, and integrative medicine. As a former Professor of Medicine at Mayo Clinic and current Executive Director of the Global Center for Resiliency and Wellbeing, Dr. Sood has dedicated his career to developing practical approaches for stress management and resilience. His work, including the development of the Stress Management and Resiliency Training (SMART) program, has been adopted by major organizations worldwide. Dr. Sood’s innovative methods combine neuroscience, psychology, and mindfulness to help individuals and organizations cultivate resilience and improve overall well-being, making him a leading voice in the field of workplace wellness and stress reduction.
Dr. David Hunnicutt
Dr. David Hunnicutt is a renowned figure in the wellness industry, known for his innovative approaches to workplace health promotion. As the former President of WELCOA (Wellness Council of America), he played a pivotal role in shaping corporate wellness programs across the United States. Dr. Hunnicutt’s expertise lies in creating cultures of health within organizations, focusing on strategies that engage employees and drive sustainable behavior change. His work has influenced countless wellness professionals and organizations, making him a respected thought leader in the field of workplace wellness.
Renee Moorefield
Renee Moorefield is the CEO and founder of Wisdom Works Group, a company dedicated to building thriving leaders and organizations. With over two decades of experience, Renee specializes in helping leaders cultivate well-being for themselves and their teams. Her approach integrates cutting-edge science with ancient wisdom traditions to create practical strategies for leadership development and organizational wellness. Renee’s work emphasizes the connection between personal well-being and leadership effectiveness, making her a valuable resource for organizations seeking to create healthier, more resilient workplaces.
Dr. Rajiv Kumar
Dr. Rajiv Kumar is a visionary leader in the field of digital health and employee wellness. As the President and Chief Medical Officer of Virgin Pulse, he has been instrumental in developing innovative technologies that drive employee engagement and behavior change. Dr. Kumar’s approach combines his medical expertise with a deep understanding of behavioral science to create effective wellness solutions. His work has helped numerous organizations improve employee health outcomes and reduce healthcare costs, establishing him as a key influencer in the evolution of corporate wellness programs.
Dr. Jessica Grossmeier
Dr. Jessica Grossmeier is a workplace wellness researcher and consultant with over 25 years of experience in the field. As the CEO of Jessica Grossmeier Consulting, she specializes in helping organizations develop evidence-based approaches to employee health and well-being. Dr. Grossmeier’s research focuses on identifying best practices in workplace wellness and measuring the impact of wellness initiatives on business outcomes. Her work has been widely published and recognized, making her a respected authority on creating effective and sustainable workplace wellness programs.
Dr. Dexter Shurney
Dr. Dexter Shurney is a visionary leader in the field of lifestyle medicine and workplace wellness. As the Chief Medical Officer and President of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, he champions evidence-based approaches to prevent, treat, and reverse chronic diseases through lifestyle interventions. Dr. Shurney’s extensive experience includes executive roles at Zipongo, Cummins, and Vanderbilt, where he implemented innovative health and wellness strategies. His work focuses on integrating lifestyle medicine principles into corporate wellness programs, emphasizing the power of nutrition, physical activity, and stress management in improving employee health and reducing healthcare costs.
Dr. Rosie Ward
Dr. Rosie Ward is a thought leader and innovator in the field of organizational and employee wellbeing. As the CEO and co-founder of Salveo Partners, she brings a fresh perspective to workplace wellness, focusing on intrinsic motivation and systemic change. Dr. Ward’s approach, detailed in her book “How to Build a Thriving Culture at Work,” emphasizes creating environments where people can thrive. With a background in exercise physiology and public health, she combines scientific rigor with practical application, helping organizations shift from traditional wellness programs to holistic wellbeing strategies that address the complexities of human thriving in the workplace.
Dr. Steven Aldana
Founder and CEO of WellSteps, Dr. Aldana is a prolific researcher and author in the field of workplace wellness, focusing on behavior change strategies.
Debra Wein
Debra Wein is a recognized expert in health and wellness, with over 25 years of experience in developing award-winning corporate wellness programs. As the CEO and founder of Wellness Workdays, she has helped numerous organizations implement effective wellness strategies that improve employee health and productivity. Debra’s expertise spans nutrition, fitness, and behavior change, and she is known for her innovative approaches to wellness program design and implementation. Her work includes developing the Wellness Workdays Dietetic Internship program, showcasing her commitment to educating the next generation of wellness professionals.
Wolf Kirsten
Wolf Kirsten is a global authority on workplace health promotion and well-being, with over 25 years of experience in the field. As the Founder and President of International Health Consulting, he has worked with multinational organizations, NGOs, and governments across more than 50 countries to develop and implement comprehensive wellness strategies. Wolf’s expertise spans cultural adaptation of health programs, global wellness trends, and fostering mentally healthy workplaces. A frequent speaker at international conferences and a published author, Wolf is also the Co-Founder of the Global Centre for Healthy Workplaces, showcasing his commitment to advancing workplace wellness on a global scale.
Dr. Kenneth R. Pelletier
Dr. Kenneth R. Pelletier is a renowned clinical professor of medicine, researcher, and author specializing in integrative health and corporate health improvement. With appointments at the University of California School of Medicine, San Francisco, and the University of Arizona School of Medicine, he brings academic rigor to the field of workplace wellness. Dr. Pelletier’s work focuses on evidence-based health promotion and disease management, emphasizing the connection between mind, body, and environment. As a prolific author of over 14 books, including “Change Your Genes, Change Your Life,” he continues to influence the integration of complementary medicine into mainstream healthcare and corporate wellness programs, making him a respected voice in the evolution of holistic health approaches.
These leaders represent a broad spectrum of expertise, from mental health to nutrition, stress management to resilience. They are shaping the future of workplace wellness, one strategy at a time. Their combined efforts are contributing to a healthier, more productive, and more human-centered work environment for all.
