Dr. James Doty is a Stanford neurosurgeon, neuroscientist, compassion researcher, inventor, entrepreneur, author, philanthropist and the founder and director of Stanford’s Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education. His NYT bestseller, Into the Magic Shop: A Neurosurgeon's Quest to Discover the Mysteries of the Brain and the Secrets of the Heart has been translated into over 30 languages and his compassion work has been lauded by the world’s leading technologists in spirit and science including Thich Nhat Hanh, Amma, Jon Kabat-Zinn, Matheiu Ricard, Sharon Salzberg, Adam Grant and Daniel Goleman. In his new book, Mind Magic: The Neuroscience of Manifestation and How it Changes Everything, Jim masterfully integrates science and spirit into an actionable prescription for creating a joyful life. As renowned neuropsychologist and author Dr. Rick Hanson suggests, “This could be the best guide ever written to making your dreams come true.”

While Dr. Doty’s recovery may affect his ability to join us in person, his teachings and compassionate insights will remain central to this transformative experience. The Made for Joy team is honored to bring his work to life throughout the retreat.

Emiliana Rodríguez is the Co-founder and Chief Content Officer at Made for Joy. She is a seasoned practitioner of transformative mindfulness and uniquely rooted at the intersection of neuroscience, education, technology and contemplative practice. A Harvard graduate – in the studies of the Mind, Brain, and Education – with a strong physics background, she has been dedicated to contemplative practice for 20 years. Emiliana is also the co-founder and former Education Director of AtentaMente, where her work in social and emotional learning (SEL) has impacted millions in Mexico. She’s co-authored seven books, delivered over 300 keynotes, a number of TEDx talks, and consulted for global organizations including UNESCO and the World Bank. Emiliana finds joy every time her 11 Seeds of Joy framework opens hearts and minds toward a more compassionate and connected world.

Made for Joy Co-founder and Chief Joy Advocate Jack Abbott is a visionary VR Wellness Warrior dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations through immersive learning and AI-enhanced experiences. After a storied career in bringing new ideas to life, Jack shifted his gaze to JOY and co-founded JoyXR and Made for Joy, focusing on science-backed solutions that promote mental and emotional well-being. His work combines cutting-edge VR/AR technologies with AI, addressing critical issues such as anxiety and loneliness. Jack’s mission extends to expanding operations in Mexico (where he rescued his little street dog, “Lola,” and she rescued him right back). His vision has manifested into collaborations with institutions such as Bank of America, UNICEF and UVEG. Jack finds his joy in creating tools for communities that elevate experiences for deep and lasting positive impacts.

River Morgan is a third-generation yoga and meditation instructor from Aspen, Colorado with nearly three decades of teaching experience. Featured in Yoga Journal, Forbes, and other publications, River is a certified yoga and meditation instructor and seasoned facilitator of teacher trainings and global retreats. She also leads trainings and conferences to champion heart-centered leadership through her work with Lead With Love. What brings River great joy is playing in the beautiful mountains and traveling with her two little fourth generation yogis.

Zen Master Bon Jacques-Pierre is a Tibetan Ngagpa tradition practitioner known for his joyful and compassionate nature. Overcoming early struggles with mental illness and a deep existential quest, he has served as a U.S. Navy and National Guard member, police officer, and non-profit founder. Ordained as a Zen Buddhist Monk in 2012 after 12 years of study, Zen Master Bon now mentors others to uncover their inner beauty and purpose. He teaches at retreats worldwide, offering wisdom through both formal guidance and unexpected moments of joy, like drawing mandalas on the beach or longboarding in his robes.

Mandi Gee is a lifelong musician, board-certified music therapist, and social worker with a passion for guiding individuals towards personal expression and healing. Specializing in drumming, voice, and guitar, Mandi blends musical expertise with therapeutic techniques to create transformative and empowering experiences. With a deep understanding of the connection between music and well-being, Mandi helps individuals unlock their potential and find their authentic voice in a supportive and nurturing environment. She finds her joy in sharing the magic of music.

Eva Ullmann is a former Olympic gymnast from Argentina, a PMA-certified Pilates instructor, a registered yoga teacher (500 RYT), and an intuitive healer who has studied various healing arts and techniques around the world. She’s also the co-founder of Aureo Wellness Journey in Baja Sur, a space that offers a holistic approach to movement with a focus on the alignment of body, mind, and spirit. Her intuition has led her to create transformative sound healing ceremonies and Cacao Rituals, where she uses her voice and the vibrations of different instruments as powerful tools for healing. Today, Eva finds joy with her family on the beaches of El Pescadero.

Saul Kuperstein is a Mexico City-born, Jewish, Yoruban-trained shaman. His early sensitivity to other vibrations and premonitions shaped his life’s path, leading him to dedicate his life and work to serving others and supporting communities in their spiritual growth and well-being. Saul’s connection to the natural world and his unique ability to peer behind the “thin veil” allows him to offer many intuitive gifts. He finds deep joy in helping people reconnect with their true nature…in nature.