Dr. Barbara Fredrickson is one of the most influential scientists in the field of positive psychology, best known for her groundbreaking Broaden-and-Build Theory, which transformed the way emotions are understood. As a Distinguished Professor of Psychology at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, her research has shaped global approaches to well-being, emotional resilience, and human flourishing. She is the author of two acclaimed books, Positivity and Love 2.0, which translated decades of scientific research into accessible insights. Dr. Fredrickson has received numerous awards for her research excellence and is regularly cited as one of the most impactful psychologists of the 21st century. Her work continues to influence clinicians, educators, and policymakers around the world.

Dr. Philip Zimbardo is an iconic figure in psychology, widely known for his role as the creator of the Stanford Prison Experiment, one of the most discussed and studied research projects in the history of the field. Beyond this landmark work, he has spent decades exploring the psychology of evil, heroism, time perception, and social influence. A Professor Emeritus at Stanford University, Zimbardo has authored more than 60 books and hundreds of articles, making major contributions to both academic psychology and public understanding of human behavior. In recent years, he founded the Heroic Imagination Project, a nonprofit dedicated to teaching people how to take compassionate, courageous action in their communities. His career stands as a blend of pioneering research, public education, and social impact.

Cherie Carter-Scott, often called “the Mother of Coaching,” is a pioneering author, executive coach, and transformational trainer. She is best known for her international bestseller If Life Is a Game, These Are the Rules, published in over forty languages. With experience training leaders in more than thirty countries and consulting for Fortune 500 companies, Cherie has made a lasting impact on the coaching profession. She is also the founder of the MMS Institute, one of the earliest organizations dedicated to teaching coaching skills, and is frequently featured in global media as a trusted voice in personal development.

Ryan Niemiec is a psychologist and the Education Director at the VIA Institute on Character, widely recognized as the world’s leading expert on character strengths. He has authored influential books such as Character Strengths Interventions and The Power of Character Strengths, helping shape the global understanding of strengths-based psychology. Ryan played a key role in developing the VIA Character Strengths assessment, now used by millions worldwide, and has created evidence-based practices applied across education, coaching, organizations, and healthcare. He is also a respected speaker on mindfulness, well-being, and positive psychology.

Matthieu Ricard is a Buddhist monk, author, humanitarian, and photographer, often called “the happiest man in the world” based on neuroscientific studies of meditation. He has authored bestselling books such as Happiness, Altruism, and The Art of Meditation, and served for decades as a translator for the Dalai Lama. Matthieu is a leading contributor to research on compassion, altruism, and contemplative neuroscience, and the founder of Karuna-Shechen, a humanitarian organization supporting thousands in Nepal, India, and Tibet.

Jonathan Passmore, PhD, is a leading professor of coaching and an internationally recognized organizational psychologist. As one of the world’s most published researchers in coaching and leadership, he has shaped both academic and practical approaches to the field. He serves as a professor at Henley Business School, University of Reading, and has worked with government agencies, global companies, and leadership teams across multiple sectors. With more than 30 books to his name, Jonathan is consistently ranked among the top coaching experts worldwide.

William Bloom, PhD, is a UK-based author, educator, and holistic well-being specialist. He is a leading figure in spirituality, meditation, and conscious living, and the founder of The Spiritual Companions Trust, which supports spiritual development and well-being. William has authored books including The Endorphin Effect and Working with Angels, and is known for his work integrating psychology, well-being, and mindful living.

Michael F. Steger, PhD, is a psychologist and professor at Colorado State University, renowned for his research on meaning and purpose. He is the founder of the Center for Meaning & Purpose and the creator of influential tools such as the Meaning in Life Questionnaire (MLQ) and the Work & Meaning Inventory. Michael is also co-editor of foundational books in positive psychology and is recognized globally as an expert on purpose, well-being, and meaningful work.

Lea Waters, PhD, is a psychologist, researcher, and global expert in strengths-based parenting. She is the former President of the International Positive Psychology Association (IPPA) and a leading voice in child and adolescent well-being. Lea pioneered the concepts of Strengths-Based Parenting and Strengths-Based Schools, helping families and educators apply positive psychology in practical ways. She is the author of the acclaimed book The Strength Switch and a professor at the University of Melbourne. Through her consulting programs, Lea has helped schools and families around the world strengthen resilience, confidence, and thriving in young people.

Peter Hawkins is a leadership consultant and a pioneer of systemic team coaching. He is the creator of the widely used Systemic Team Coaching model and serves as Chair of Renewal Associates and Professor of Leadership at Henley Business School. Peter has authored influential books, including Leadership Team Coaching, and advises large organizations, boards, and governments. He is recognized as one of the most respected voices in leadership development worldwide.

Ilona Boniwell, PhD, is a leading positive psychology professor and the CEO of Positran, a global consultancy on well-being, resilience, and positive leadership. She founded Europe’s first MAPP program at the University of East London and directs the International MAPP (I-MAPP) at Anglia Ruskin University. A former Vice-Chair of the International Positive Psychology Association (IPPA), Ilona has advised governments, schools, and corporations, delivering over 150 keynotes worldwide. She is also the author of Positive Psychology and numerous applied tools for coaching and education.

Michael Ungar, PhD, is a professor, leading resilience researcher, and author known for his groundbreaking work on how resilience develops across different cultures and contexts. He is the founder and director of the Resilience Research Centre at Dalhousie University and has written numerous books, including Too Safe for Their Own Good. Michael has received national recognition for his contributions to social work and youth resilience, and he consults regularly with governments and international organizations on improving well-being and community support systems.

Devon White is a human performance coach, futurist, and consciousness architect, and the co-founder of FIELD, where he develops a “Human Operating System” for peak performance. With over 20 years of experience coaching executives, innovators, and leaders, he works at the intersection of neuroscience, somatics, storytelling, and human optimization. Devon is also a sought-after speaker on human potential, embodied intelligence, and the future of consciousness, known for designing immersive transformational experiences for his clients.

Dr. D. Ivan Young is a Master Certified Coach (MCC) and behavioral neuroscience specialist, recognized globally for his expertise in positive psychology, neuroscience, NLP, and behavioral change. He is a three-time TEDx speaker with millions of views and has served as Co-Chair for the Council on Race, Equity & Inclusion at the Institute of Coaching (Harvard). Dr. Young mentors professionals pursuing ICF accreditation and works with leaders, public figures, and high-impact professionals to help them achieve lasting growth and performance.