My Soul Warrior the Power of Leadership
Founder Lance Houia
Lance Houia is a distinguished global operations leader with over 20 years of experience in driving high performance and significant growth across various industries. His career is marked by exceptional achievement and recognition in leadership, and operational efficiencies. Proficient in managing teams and building lasting relationships.
Throughout his career, Lance has held influential roles in organizations such as Tachikawa Forest Products, Lifetime fitness, and Prolog Industries. His profound expertise extends beyond traditional operations management, encompassing strategic planning, marketing, business development, and project management. As an experienced leader, Lance excels in both high-level management and hands-on operations, consistently achieving forward momentum and growth.
Lance is certified in multiple areas and continuously hones his skills in consultative and strategic selling, negotiation, and project management. With the ability to quickly adapt to new ideas, concepts, and technologies, he is adept at utilizing internal and external resources to help clients drive to improve business efficiencies. His partnership approach emphasizes increased productivity and processed enhancements.
Lance is a dynamic and accomplished professional, renowned for an exceptional career in rugby and a profound impact as a motivational speaker. With an impressive history as a rugby player, Lance has made his mark on international stages from New Zealand, Australia, Japan, Scotland, to the USA, showcasing unparalleled dedication and skill for decades.
Lance career is a testament to his dedication to excellence and his relentless pursuit of success. He remains a dynamic, ambitious professional committed to delivering unparalleled value and innovative solutions to those he serves.
Lance's rugby accolades are extensive and distinguished. As a brakeman in the New Zealand Bobsled team, Lance demonstrated leadership and excellence early on. Notably, the opportunity to perform the iconic Haka before the esteemed New Zealand All Blacks team left a lasting mark. With participation in four USA National Team camps, US All American, selections to multiple All-Star teams, and appearances in 17 Men's National Rugby Championships, Lance has solidified his place among the elite. Not only a player but also a coach, Lance has led South, West, and Midwest All Star Teams to success and has been honored as a New Zealand Ambassador 15's team member.
After a thriving sports journey, Lance transitioned into motivational speaking in 2012, captivating and inspiring diverse audiences worldwide. His impactful presentations have reached prestigious organizations such as Gucci, CEO Warrior, Byline Bank, and Smith and Nephew Corporations, influencing over 50,000 employees globally. Lance's powerful messages have inspired settings as varied as the UFC, high schools, military services, and elite universities, including Middle Tennessee State University, Michigan State University, and Loyola University. His commitment to mentoring the youth and professionals alike underscores his versatility as a speaker, empowering everyone from troubled youths to seasoned leaders attending CEO Warrior.
Featured on NBC, ABC news, and NPR, Lance is a global ambassador for motivation, leveraging media platforms to disseminate messages of perseverance, teamwork, and resilience.
In every endeavor, Lance embodies a passion for excellence, inspiring countless individuals and leaving an indelible legacy in both the sports and motivational speaking arenas. Whether on the rugby field or behind a podium, Lance's journey is a testament to his enduring impact and unwavering commitment to making a difference.
Larry Ryans, Jr.
Visionary Coach & Inspiring Athlete with a Legacy of Excellence
Professional Summary:
Larry Ryans, Jr. stands as a testament to relentless pursuit, exceptional talent, and impactful coaching. With a career spanning elite athletic participation and distinguished mentoring, Larry's journey embodies dedication, hard work, and inspirational leadership. His multifaceted skills have honed champions across diverse sports arenas, empowering athletes to surpass their greatest potential.
Accomplishments & Experience:
High School Achievements:
- Graduated in 1989 from Greenwood High School, SC.
- Dominated as the nation's number one hurdler.
- Earned prestigious titles: Gatorade and Coca-Cola Athlete of the Year
- Coached the team to victory as State Football Champion in South Carolina.
Collegiate Excellence:
- Attended Clemson University on a dual football and track scholarship.
- Garnered 7 ACC Championships, achieved 11 All-ACC nominations.
- Celebrated as a 5-time All-American.
- Competed as a 1992 Olympic Trials Qualifier.
- Inducted into the Clemson Track and Field Hall of Fame.
- Earned a Bachelor of Science in Management, 1994.
Professional Athletic Career:
- Excelled as a wideout and return specialist in the NFL, winning the NFC North title in 1993.
- Triumphed in World Bowl Championship with Rhein Fire in NFL Europe.
- Secured an XFL Championship ring with L.A. Galaxy in 2000.
Coaching & Mentorship:
- Pioneered the training of athletes for excellence since 2000.
- Mentored numerous athletes towards distinguished careers at professional and amateur levels.
- Served as a Sprint and Hurdle Coach at IMG Academy (2019-2025).
- Attained USATF Level 1 Certification.
Honors & Legacy:
- Proud inductee of Greenwood High School Hall of Fame.
- Celebrated inductee of the Clemson Track and Field Hall of Fame.
Personal Journey:
- Proud father of two remarkable children, Reide (26) and Reece (25).
Inspiration:
Larry Ryans, Jr. represents the essence of athletic spirit and coaching brilliance – a legacy defined by ambition, achievement, and an unwavering commitment to nurturing talent for a victorious future.
Embrace the journey, embrace the challenge, embrace excellenc
DEBORAH R. HUTCHINSON DCN, CNS, LDN, MS, CHHC, IFMCP
Dr. Hutchinson holds a Doctor of Clinical Nutrition (DCN) from Maryland University of Integrative Health. She is a member of the American Nutrition Associations and holds a board certification as a Clinical Nutrition Specialist (CNS).
Dr. Hutchinson has been published in peer reviewed journals including Integrative Medicine: A Clinician's Journal, and in the Journal of Science and Medicine. She has also co-authored her testimony in the Holistic Approach: Personal Stories of Triumph and Transformation Through Mind, Body and Spirit. She is actively pursuing additional publication with a group of practitioners. She has been working in the field of integrative and functional medicine for 12 years.
She is the founder of Turning Tides, LLC (dba Turning Tides with Dr Hutch) and Astounding Victory Over Intoxicating Drugs. She continues working on research for the purpose of publishing evidence based and relevant articles in peer reviewed journals on a wide array of topics. Her primary focus is centered on mental health, addictions, and the influence of epigenetics in these areas. Her dream is to write Christ centered and health books as well as starting a Christ centered health and wellness magazine focused on a functional medicine approach, Sozo Healthy Living and Lifestyle Magazine.
Professor with Huntington University of Health Sciences where she teaches several nutrition focused courses to bachelors, masters, and doctorate students. These courses consist of the following:
1. Healthy Aging. 2. Lifespan Nutrition. 3. Psychology. 4. Management of a CAM
(Complementary Alternative Medicine) Practice. 5. Eating Disorders & Weight Management. 6. Geriatric Nutrition.
2. Western State University. Where she is on the teaching staff for (1) Nutritional
Epidemiology and Clinical research (2) Designer and Instructor for the Masters level Nutrigentics/Nutrigenomics course.
EDUCATION
DCN Doctor of Clinical Nutrition (Specializing in Functional Medicine),
Maryland University of Integrative Health,
MS
Laurel, MD, 2020
Human Nutrition (Specializing in Functional Medicine), University of Bridgeport,
Bridgeport, CT, 2016
Graduated Cum Laude
Dr Hutchinson
BS
Psychology
Regent University,
Virginia Beach, VA, 2013
Graduated Cum Laude
Deans lists and honorary member - Psi Chi Emphasis on substance abuse treatment
SKILL SET
Critical thinking by integrating scientific and clinical evidence based, attentive listening skills, observation, and informed opinion.
• Identify and problem solving
• Strong interpersonal ability to support a working relationship across multidisciplinary teams and needed support for the client.
• Medical nutrition therapy counseling
• Effective communication
Decision making, problem solving and personable collaboration with client's and other providers overseeing their care
STRENGTHS
Learner - consistent education, knowledge seeker, always open to new ideas and ways to implement solutions, and always willing to go above and beyond what is expected
• Communication - Excellent verbal, written, and delivery methods, empathetic, responds in a timely manner. Shows respect for others, confident, active listener. Aware of verbal cues and the impact it can have on a conversation.
Influencer of change - encourager, optimistic mindset, intuitive, caring, never give up attitude. Motivational.
• Organized - Time management, checklists for keeping on task, and strong finisher.
LICENSING & CERTIFICATIONS
• Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS), Board Certification
Certified Board for Nutrition Specialist, LaGrange, IL. 2020
• Licensed Nutritionist/Dietitian (LDN), Florida. 2020 through current
• Certified Holistic Health Coach (CHHC)
Institute for Integrative Nutrition, New York, 2010
In progress: Institute for Functional Medicine - Certified Practitioner - Hopeful candidate Nov 2024.
MOCA - A cognitive assessment certification May 2021- present.
• Living Plate Rx: Certification April 2022
Mealtime Method: C.H.E.F.S.®A Culinary Skills Program for Health. C.H.E.F.S.: Cooking, Healthy Eating, & Food Strategies.
Dr Hutchinson
Metagenics: FirstLine Therapy Certification April 2022
Comprehensive evidence-based operating system for delivering personalized lifestyle medicine approach to lifestyle intervention.
Florida state Lic# ND 10316 / NPI # 19124252811
CURRENT BOARDS & PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS
- Founding Member: Astounding Victory Over Intoxicating Drugs (AVOID) Member: American Nutrition Association (ANA)
- Member: The Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM)
- Member: The American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC)
- Secretary for Non-Profit: True Paleo, Inc
- Local Chapter Leader: The Weston A. Price Foundation (WAPF)
- Mastership certification program: The Kharrazian Institute
PAPERS IN PEER REVIEWED JOURNALS & POSTERS
BOOKS
Published article: LaGreca, M., Hutchinson, D., & Barry, L. (2020). A Multi-Faceted Approach to Weight Loss: A Case Report. Integrative Medicine: A Clinical Journal, 19 (1). 38-45.
http://www.imjournal.com/index.cfm/fuseaction/archives.main
• Published article: LaGreca, M., Hutchinson, D., & Skehan, L. (2022). The Microbiome and Neurotransmitter Activity. Journal of Science and Medicine, 3(2). https://doi.org/10.37714/josam.v3i2.90
Published article. Hollywood, J.B., Hutchinson, D., Feehery-Alpuerto, N., Whitfield, M., David, K., and Johnson, L. M. (2023). The Effects of the Paleo Diet on Autoimmune Thyroid Disease: A Mixed Methods Review. Journal of the American Nutrition Association, https://doi.org/10.1080/27697061.2022.2159570 MUIH Graduate Poster: Identifying Cofactors Responsible for Modulating Metabolic Pathways Correlated with Neuroinflammatory Responses in Schizophrenia: A Narrative Review. Paper to be finalized & submitted for publication 2024.
Holistic Approach: Personal Stories of Triumph and Transformation Through Mind, Body and Spirit, 2017, Holistic Network International. From A Mother's Heart: Unexpected Calling.
PRESENTATIONS AND INVITED LECTURES
Addiction Recovery Centers: 2022
Community Education Series: Utilizing lab markers and common Nutrient insufficiencies Rotary Club, Bradenton, FL 2019
Eat and Live Healthier: Using Food First to Restore Function in Body Systems
Dr Hutchinson
Kiwanis, Bradenton, Fl 2019
Eat and Live Healthier: Diets What Works and What Doesn't
SAFRAN Group Employee Education Seminar, Sarasota Fl, 2019 Eat and Live Healthier Series: Heart, Stress, and Mental Health
GT Bray. Walk With the Doc, Bradenton, FL 2019
Brain Health and the Impact of Nutrition and Cognitive Decline Disorders Christian Business Network, Clearwater Fl, 2017
A Functional Medicine Approach to Healthy Living: Digestion & Nutrition
Citizens Commission of Human Rights 2016-2017
Root Cause Resolution: A Functional Medicine Approach to Neuropsychiatric Disorders and the Impact of Nutrition on Metabolic Pathways
Live Functional Medicine Presentations: Live weekly in person and online.
My Soul Warrior Krystyna Sweeney
Krystyna who is the Chief Executive Officer of Triangle Educational Development Services, Corp (TEDS).
Krystyna Sweeney is an esteemed leader with over 30 years of experience in education and mentorship. Additionally, she brings her vast expertise as an advisor and mentor to the innovative My Soul Warrior mental health course.
Ms. Sweeney's career began in the K-12 education system, where she developed her skills as a mentor, consultant, and educator. Her passion for education led her to influence and guide university-level students, further extending her impact within the academic community and building the standard for My Soul Warrior mental Health Course.
Armed with advanced degrees in Education and Leadership, Ms. Sweeney is celebrated for her ability to instill essential core values such as Respect, Integrity, and Resilience in her impactful TEDS program and My Soul Warrior training sessions. Over the last decade, she has specialized in providing professional development and mentorship to teachers and administrators in high poverty-level school districts, fostering leadership transformation that redefine the educational landscape.
Acclaimed as a transformative leader, Ms. Sweeney spearheaded our dedicated team of professionals focused on unlocking individual potential to achieve outstanding educational outcomes. Her work not only empowers everyone at My Soul Warriors and educators but also creates supportive environments for students and participants to thrive and succeed academically and personally through My Soul Warrior Mental Health Course.
We are honored to have the extraordinary Krystyna Sweeney as a vital part of our My Soul Warrior team. Her extensive knowledge and unparalleled experience infuse incredible value into our mission. As a visionary in education and mentorship, Krystyna's insights ignite transformation and empower change. Her dedication to fostering respect, integrity, and resilience strengthens our team, inspiring us to reach new heights in mental health and personal development. With Krystyna by our side, we are empowered to uplift communities and unlock potential, forging a path to a brighter, more resilient future for all.
Heather Conrad
A Catalyst for Veteran Success in Higher Education
Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E)
Veterans Benefits Administration
Middle Tennessee State University
As a passionate and dedicated VetSuccess on Campus Counselor (VSOC) since April 1, 2012. Heather devoted her career to transforming the lives of veterans as they transition from active duty to academic success, a journey she proudly calls "Combat to Campus." In her role as a GS 12, Step 10 Counselor, she spearheaded a unique program designed from the ground up, creating a veteran-centric, goal-focused environment that empowers veterans to thrive in their educational pursuits.
Witnessing first-hand the incredible potential of peer support, she initiated a groundbreaking Veteran Peer-to-Peer Mentorship Program. Recognizing the overwhelming need on our 1,200+ veteran and family member-strong campus, she advocated for a VA Work Study Program, successfully creating and hiring twelve qualified veterans and dependents to guide their peers. Since its official launch in October 2012, this program has positively impacted over 1,500 veteran students, offering crucial support and camaraderie in navigating their academic journey.
In collaboration with esteemed leaders like retired three-star General Keith Huber, she played a crucial role in the planning and execution of the Charlie and Hazel Daniel’s Veterans and Military Family Center at MTSU, a pioneering initiative that opened its doors on November 5, 2015. This center stands as a testament to our commitment to providing comprehensive support for veterans and their families.
As an advisor to community, state, and federal stakeholders, she is dedicated to fostering environments where veterans are empowered to succeed. I meticulously synthesize and deliver monthly operations reports to the VHA, VBA, and MTSU, ensuring transparent communication and strategic alignment.
Her mission is clear: to inspire, motivate, and guide our nation's heroes as they embark on one of their most rewarding battles—academic achievement and personal growth. Through innovation, empathy, and unwavering dedication, I am honored to contribute to the future success of our veterans, inspiring change and creating opportunities every step of the way.
Department of Veterans Affairs, Central Office
Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Service
Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor/National Quality Assurance and Site Visit Team*
Grade: GS-13 Step 2 to GS-13 Step 4
As a dedicated Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor and member of the National Quality Assurance and Site Visit Team. Heather played a pivotal role in shaping and implementing comprehensive guidance for VA VR&E upper management on specific policies and regulations. Her responsibilities included extensive travel to Regional Offices nationwide to conduct Statistical Operations of Analysis, critically assessing the effectiveness of facilities, staffing, training, quality, and service delivery programs.
Key Achievements
- Led the nation in executing quality outcome training initiatives, significantly enhancing service delivery, financial operations, and customer service for over 90,000 veterans.
- Provided insightful information, data analysis, and expert assistance to VR&E management and staff, contributing to policy and procedural development and implementation.
- Clarified policy and program issues for VBA management officials, ensuring clear communication and effective policy execution.
Core Competencies
- Deep expertise in VR&E legal frameworks, regulations, policies, and procedures, ensuring rigorous adherence to standards during evaluations.
- Proficient in conducting regular case reviews using established QA procedures, supporting the QA and Site Visit Supervisor in completing comprehensive case assessments.
- Skilled in performing trend analyses and conducting on-site observations, interviews, and detailed reports of findings, adhering to established protocol.
- Knowledgeable in field operations, internal control requirements, and VR&E regulatory compliance, consistently driving quality improvement measures.
Heather has an outstanding track record of enhancing program effectiveness and service quality, driven by an unwavering commitment to serving our nation's veterans.
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