FOM23 Speakers

FOM23 speakers and panelists

Paul Taylor

Mind Body Brain Performance Institute

Paul Taylor is an expert in the fields of neuroscience, psychology and human performance. An incredibly dynamic speaker, Paul is known for his ability to engage and captivate large audiences with his charismatic and energetic style.

A former British Royal Navy Aircrew Officer, Paul Taylor is an Exercise Physiologist, Nutritionist and Neuroscientist. He is currently completing a PhD in Applied Psychology where he is developing and testing resilience strategies with the Australian Defence Science & Technology Group.

As the Director of the Mind Body Brain Performance Institute, he has spent his career researching and developing strategies to optimise performance in both individuals and organisations. In 2010 Paul created and co-hosted the TV series Body and Brain Overhaul. His BioAge software is used by a number of Australian and international health club chains and in 2010 and 2015 he was voted Australian Fitness Industry presenter of the year.

Author of the best selling book “Death by Comfort”, Paul also has a proven track record in leadership and dealing in high-pressure situations, through his former roles as an Airborne Anti-submarine Warfare Officer, a helicopter Search And Rescue crew member, and through his rigorous training in Combat Survival and Resistance to Interrogation.

Come along to FOM23 to hear Paul Taylor speak on:

• The Happiness Delusion – how to use Stoicism in modern life
• Death by comfort – the art and science of hormesis

Greg Macpherson

Biotechnologist, Futurist and Pharmacologist

Greg Macpherson is a pharmacist, technologist, entrepreneur, and author of “Harnessing the Nine Hallmarks of Aging: to live your healthiest life.” With over 30 years of experience at the intersection of technology and health fields, Greg has become a respected expert in his field.

In the last decade, Greg has focused specifically on the biotechnology sector, studying the aging process at the cellular level. A seasoned entrepreneur, Greg’s most recent venture SRW Laboratories is a science and research-based company that curates the latest biotechnology research to formulate natural products designed to help slow the onset of aging and disease. Through SRW Laboratories, Greg is developing evidence-based solutions for those experiencing age-related health concerns.

Greg’s expertise in the field of biotechnology and aging has made him a sought-after speaker and thought leader in the industry. His work has the potential to revolutionise the way we approach aging and disease, and his commitment to developing evidence-based solutions makes him a valuable asset to anyone looking to live a healthier life.

Dr Angela Lim

Paediatrics Doctor and CEO of Digital Mental Health Initiative

Angela Lim is a Paediatrics Doctor turned CEO and co-founder of Clearhead – New Zealand’s first AI driven diagnostic and triage platform for mental health and wellbeing. She believes technology has the potential to deliver the transformative change required to improve health outcomes. Clearhead aims to improve mental health access by providing choice, convenience and control directly to the user. 

Angela graduated from the University of Auckland’s medical school and started paediatrics training at Starship Hospital, but her passion for tackling inequality led her to take a break from clinical practice in order to focus on developing scalable innovative solutions in health. She has been involved in multiple research projects including during her sabbatical at the Harvard School of Public Health, which resulted in publications in international peer-reviewed journals. 

Angela is also passionate about good governance and solving complex problems, and sits on multiple boards for the New Zealand Government and not-for-profits. She is currently the chair of the 20/20 Trust. As a finalist in the 2017 Young New Zealander of the Year Awards, her leadership has been widely recognised.

Dr Matthew Phillips

Clinical and Research Neurologist

Dr Matthew Phillips is a highly respected clinical and research neurologist based at Waikato Hospital in Hamilton, New Zealand. With a strong passion for exploring the potential benefits of metabolic therapies for neurological disorders, he has made significant contributions to the field of neurology through his pioneering research into fasting and ketogenic diets.

As a full-time clinician, Dr Phillips has firsthand experience treating patients with a variety of difficult neurological conditions, including Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. Through his research, he has sought to develop alternate metabolic states that may improve not only the symptoms, but also the function and quality of life for these patients.

Dr Phillips’ groundbreaking work has earned him international recognition and acclaim. In 2017-2018, his team conducted a world-first randomized controlled study of a ketogenic diet in Parkinson’s disease, providing compelling evidence for the therapeutic potential of this approach.

In addition to his research, Dr Phillips is a sought-after speaker and educator, regularly presenting at conferences and events. He is also a respected author, with his work appearing in numerous peer-reviewed journals and publications.

Dr Phillips’ unwavering commitment to advancing the field of neurology and improving the lives of patients has made him a highly respected and valued member of the healthcare community. His groundbreaking research continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in the treatment of neurological disorders.

Dr Mikki Williden

Registered Nutritionist

Dr Mikki Williden is a registered nutritionist and a renowned expert in the field of health and nutrition. With over 15 years of experience, she has helped a vast number of people achieve their health and performance goals through evidence-based nutrition practices.

In 2011, Dr Williden completed her doctoral thesis in health and productivity in the New Zealand workforce, earning her a PhD. Since then, she has continued to stay at the forefront of the industry, hosting her own weekly podcast, Mikkipedia, which delves deep into the topics of nutrition, longevity, fitness and health. She is also a co-host of Fitter Radio, a weekly endurance sports podcast.

Dr Williden is the creator of Mondays Matter, a highly successful fat loss group programme that has helped thousands of people achieve their body composition goals through the use of evidence-based techniques. With a Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition and a Bachelor of Physical Education from the University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand, she earned her Masters in Science (Human Nutrition) with First Class Honours in 2003, focusing on the development of a childhood obesity prevention programme.

Head along to FOM23 and hear Dr Williden speak on: Why Mondays Matter and how to use protein to your advantage in weight loss and beyond. 

Dr Paul Mason

Sports and Exercise Medicine Physician

Dr Paul Mason is a renowned expert in the field of Sports and Exercise Medicine. He obtained his medical degree with honours from the University of Sydney and holds additional degrees in Physiotherapy and Occupational Health. With extensive experience in treating both the general public and elite athletes, Dr Mason is a sought-after specialist in his field.

As a Specialist Registrar in the Australasian College of Sports and Exercise Medicine, Dr Mason has a keen interest in treating persistent back pain and tendon pain. He is well-versed in the latest treatment approaches and uses his physiotherapy background to provide a holistic approach to patient care. He also has an in depth understanding of the latest science surrounding weight loss and nutrition. Using a low carbohydrate approach, he helps his patients achieve excellent results.

Dr Mason has experience in treating both members of the general public, and elite athletes in a number of sports. Teams he has worked with include Penrith Panthers, Sydney FC, Australian Men’s Waterpolo team and the Futsalroos. 

Come along to FOM23 to hear Dr Mason speak on:

• Why we must do better in medicine and how we will do this
• Blood lipids – what the science really tells us and what this means

Dr David Beaumont

Consultant Occupational Physician, author, former President of the Australasian Faculty of Occupational and Environmental Medicine

Dr David Beaumont is a highly respected Consultant Occupational Physician with a wealth of experience in occupational and environmental medicine. He is widely recognized for his leadership in promoting health and wellbeing in the workplace, and his efforts to improve the standard of medical care in this field.

Training as a general practitioner in the UK in the 1980s, after moving to New Zealand, he took on leadership roles in the Royal Australasian College of Physicians, including Board Director (2014-16) and Congress Lead Fellow 2018-19. He served as President of the Australasian Faculty of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, and he currently provides injury management and rehabilitation services, as well as health and wellbeing consultancy, to some of New Zealand’s largest employers.

Dr Beaumont is also an accomplished author, and his groundbreaking book, Positive Medicine: Disrupting the Future of Medical Practice, explores the emerging field of positive medicine and its potential to transform the way we approach health and wellbeing. It has received widespread critical acclaim and was awarded the BMA (British Medical Association) medical book award for primary care.

In addition to his medical practice and writing, Dr Beaumont is the founder of Positive Medicine Ltd, a company that provides health and wellbeing programmes for individuals, company employees, doctors, and healthcare professionals. Through his work with Positive Medicine Ltd, Dr Beaumont is committed to promoting a holistic approach to healthcare that emphasizes the importance of mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing in achieving optimal health outcomes.

Come along to FOM23 to hear Dr Beaumont speak on:

• The Future of Medicine is Positive Medicine 

Deborah Murtagh

Innovator, Researcher and Author

Deborah Murtagh is a highly respected and accomplished innovator, researcher, author, and expert in the field of wholefoods nutrition and mind-before-body weight loss. With over 25 years of clinical experience and 20,000 hours of one-on-one consultations, she is a leading authority on implementing the ketogenic diet in the real world.

As the founder and creator of several highly successful weight loss programs, including The Ketogenic Switch, Switch Fast, and Sisstars on Switch, Deborah has helped countless clients achieve their health and wellness goals. Her unique approach emphasizes the importance of mindset, mindfulness, and self-awareness, empowering individuals to make lasting lifestyle changes that support optimal health and well-being.

Deborah’s groundbreaking research has been published in numerous peer-reviewed journals and she is a sought-after speaker, presenter and best-selling author.

With a deep passion for educating and inspiring others, Deborah is dedicated to advancing the field of wholefoods nutrition and mind-before-body weight loss through ongoing research, innovation, and collaboration.

Join FOM23 and hear Deborah share: How to implement fasting and keto in the real world.

Professor Grant Schofield

Professor of Public Health, Chief Science Officer PREKURE

Grant Schofield is the Professor of Public Health at Auckland University of Technology, director of the University’s Human Potential Centre, former Chief Scientific Adviser to the Ministry of Education in New Zealand, co-author of four best-selling books and Chief Science Officer for PREKURE.

Professor Grant’s career has focused on preventing the diseases of modern times, and seeing what it takes to help people live a long, healthy and happy life.

He lives and breathes the motto “be the best you can be”, and sees this as a game-changer for the health system – capable of transforming the current health (sickness) model, to one in which we aspire to be well. He is redefining public health as the science of human potential; the study of what it takes to have a great life.

Grant is well known for thinking outside the box and challenging conventional wisdom in nutrition and weight loss, as well as physical activity and exercise.

He brings his fluency across several scientific disciplines – from human physiology, to psychology, to peak performance – to his role at PREKURE, where he delivers world class training in lifestyle medicine.

Dr Caryn Zinn

Associate Professor and Registered Dietitian

Dr Caryn Zinn is an internationally-recognised leader and advocate of the whole food, low carbohydrate, healthy fat (LCHF) nutrition and lifestyle approach and its application to metabolic health and sports performance. Caryn is an academic, an author and a registered dietitian, with over 25 years of consulting experience as a dietitian and is the managing director of her nutrition and lifestyle consultancy practice.

As a clinician in the field of dietetics, Caryn clinical practice focuses on the application of whole food nutrition and lifestyle management for chronic conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, weight management, gut health disorders, and autoimmune conditions.

Her specialty is the application of carbohydrate-restriction nutrition therapy (low carbohydrate, healthy fat,- LCHF – and ketogenic diets) for conditions characterised by insulin resistance and inflammation, as well as in the context of sports performance nutrition.

Dr Catherine Crofts

Pharmacist & Lecturer

Dr Catherine Crofts is a New Zealand community-based clinical pharmacist and lecturer who firmly believes in using the lowest dose of the least number of medications to treat disease.

Her research foci are the early diagnosis of metabolic syndrome, hyperinsulinaemia, and biometabolic assessment of lifestyle interventions for the management of metabolic diseases.

After 20 years of experience as a practising pharmacist she describes her role as more like a “disease management specialist” than a health professional.

Dr Crofts received her PhD from Auckland University of Technology in 2016 in the early diagnosis of metabolic disease focusing on lifestyle management.

Dr Glen Davies

General Practitioner & Lifestyle Medicine Physician

Dr Glen Davies is a GP specialist with dual fellowships in both general practice and lifestyle medicine. He is a passionate advocate of lifestyle approaches to reversing chronic disease. Through his prescription of LCHF/ keto diets, he has helped over 100 patients reverse their prediabetes and type 2 diabetes.

Glen was recognised for his work in 2021 by being awarded the prestigious GP of the year title at the NZ primary care awards.

Becoming frustrated by failing to address prevention and by managing treatable conditions rather than aiming for cure, Glen “why” is now to make a difference as a healer and to contribute to the creation of healthier communities. He combines the power of Low Carb/Healthy Fat, Ketogenic Diets and fasting with a coach approach, to walk beside clients supporting them on their healing journey.

Dr Michael Murphy 

Clinical Director at CannaPlus+ Clinic

Dr Michael Murphy graduated in both Medicine and Pharmacology from University College London. Over the past 20 years, he has encountered patients with a broad range of clinical conditions in his daily clinical practice and has kept up-to-date with the advances in medical understanding and therapies. Dr Murphy is a passionate advocate of patient care. He believes that medicinal cannabis can provide a safe and effective adjunct for those whose medical care and well-being have not been fully met by primary or hospital-level care medicine.

Dr Louise Schofield

Behaviour Change Specialist

Louise Schofield is the co-founder and CEO of PREKURE, a purpose driven health education & training provider that exists to inspire the medical profession to become more focused on disease prevention.

With a PhD in behaviour change, Louise is a successful entrepreneur. Prior to establishing PREKURE she spent 15 years leading businesses in the corporate wellbeing industry and developing behaviour change programs to achieve positive wellbeing outcomes.

Louise’ mission is to inspire a change in medicine to be more preventative in focus. She is passionate about eliminating the over-prescribing of medication that offers little or no benefit, poor nutritional advice and programs which don’t work, and for the medical community to embrace a preventative, lifestyle medicine approach.

Professor Julia Rucklidge

Professor of Clinical Psychology

Professor Julia Rucklidge, is a Professor of Clinical Psychology at University of Canterbury, a mental health and nutrition researcher, international TEDx and edX speaker. She recently co-authored the book The Better Brain: How Nutrition Will Help You Overcome Anxiety, Depression, ADHD and Stress; the first book that will tell you both how and why nutrients can be used to treat mental-health issues.

Professor Julia’s interest in nutrition and mental illness was spurred by her own research showing poor outcomes for children with significant psychiatric illness, despite receiving conventional treatments.

Her passion is in helping people find alternative treatments for their psychiatric symptoms, and is well known for her groundbreaking research in this field, winning numerous local and international awards for her work.

Dr Afraz Adam

Chief Medical Officer, CannaPlus+

Dr Afraz Adam offers a wealth of experience across multiple medicinal disciplines, treating patients across Australasia. He is a Fellow in urgent care and has been actively involved in hospital medicine, emergency rooms and accident and medical clinics. Dr Adam is an advocate of medicinal cannabis, believing that it has the potential to improve patient’s lives significantly through relief of chronic pain, anxiety, depression, insomnia, inflammation, diabetes control, alcoholism – and much more. He promotes a holistic approach to medicine and believes that sound nutritional health, mental fortitude, exercise and evidence-based supplements are the solution to a myriad of modern-day health issues.

Ray Finch

General Manager

Ray Finch is the General Manager of leading wellbeing organisation Explore Hāpainga Ora – New Zealand Health Group Limited. It is the country’s largest provider of Home and Community services, including in-home support, nursing, rehabilitation and behavioural support. Through its companies, Geneva Healthcare, HealthCare New Zealand, Solora, NZ Care and Explore, it provides healthcare services to over 30,000 New Zealanders and employs over 12,000 caregiving, nursing and other health professional staff.

Sonya English

Registered Nurse & PREKURE Lead Health Coach

Sonya is a passionate advocate in the proactive prevention of disease and living the best quality of life you can. As a health coach she believes working with her client’s vision and values to support their movement from where they are now to their desired goal is paramount. Her focus is on her client’s strengths, their lifeworld and untapped awareness to move forward positively and sustainably. Sonya is a PREKURE certified health coach, transformative life coach and critical care outreach nurse specialist. Her vast health experience affords a holistic approach to championing her client’s wellness.

Jaala Dyer

PREKURE Certified Health Coach

Jaala is the winner of HCANZA’s 2022 Health & Wellness Coach of the Year in a Health Care Setting, and PREKURE’s 2022 Health & Nutrition Coach of the Year. Together she works with Dr Glen Davies in general practice, and her specialties include reversing Type 2 diabetes and overcoming food addiction.

Ree George

PREKURE Certified Mental Health Coach

Ree George is a PREKURE Certified Health Coach specialising in Mental Fitness and Addictive Behaviours with 20+ years experience in the Health & Wellbeing Industry – including Physiotherapy, Fitness, Mindfulness, Gratitude, Breathwork, Pilates and Yoga.

Ree believes that prevention is cure, and that there is a new way of providing health & wellbeing services that will complement (and challenge) our current medical model.

Olivia Currie

Lifestyle Medicine Physician

Olivia is a general practitioner in Christchurch who sub-specialised in lifestyle medicine with many of her patients achieving positive health outcomes with the smallest lifestyle change. As a result, she started Real Healthy Me, a lifestyle clinic set in a community gym, to offer evidence-based and supported intensive diet and lifestyle changes to help more people achieved their desired health goals.

Dr Marcus Hawkins

General Practitioner

General practitioner with a passionate interest in Low Carb Healthy Fat (LCHF) / ketogenic eating.

Louise Chasteau

Wellbeing Practitioner (HIP)

Louise is an experienced wellbeing practitioner with qualifications in occupational therapy, health education, and medicine.

Bronwyn Hudson

Registered Clinical Nutritionist & PREKURE Certified Mental Health Coach