Question 1

2-Day Intensive: Transform Your Voice, Transform Your Life | Cornelia Cho, MD

Accepted Answer

Changing your life can start with changing your voice. As infants and throughout our lives, we respond to tone immediately and involuntarily. We cringe from a gruff tone and warm to a loving one. Dr. Cho will guide us through using the mind-body-voice connection to initiate change from within.

As Bessel van der Kolk explains in The Body Keeps The Score, our body stores unresolved trauma that keeps impacting our life until it's healed. Our tone of voice not only keeps the score, it shouts the score from the rooftops every time we speak. Our habitual tone directly reflects our psychological life history, the complex total of early expectations placed upon us, ways of speaking modeled for us, what we were raised to believe about ourselves, messages aimed at us by society, and even cultural and historical events that impacted those with our heritage(s). This voice work differs from most because it doesn't focus on either singing or public speaking voice, though this process could improve either or both. Rather than imposing changes from the outside in, we'll be instigating changes from deep inside ourselves and watching it spread out to all aspects of life.

By tapping into the power of voice to reshape our inner self, instead of becoming more self-conscious, we can become freer and more confident. The "ABC and three R's" will start you on the path to rewiring your brain. As a bonus, you can 'road test' your newer tone right away. Join us in this unique transformational offering and help create a world where our female voices shine authentically and we speak as our true selves.

Note: Pre-Conference Workshops are not included with Main Conference registration. Either add a Pre-Conference workshop to your Main Conference registration, OR register for the Pre-Conference workshop separately. Visit the Pre-Conference Events webpage for more information, or click here.

Question 2

2-Day Intensive: Singing & Stewardship : A Buckthorn Pull and Pile Work Gathering | Sarah Foltz Jordan and Mari Verbeten

Accepted Answer

Join conservation biologist Sarah Foltz Jordan and singer/song-leader Mari Verbeten for a pre-conference event that combines abundant learning, singing, and hard work.

This pre-conference includes an informational session, two work sessions in the field hand pulling small buckthorn and flagging large trees, and a short wrap-up session to celebrate our work. Participants are invited to join a special ecologically-themed evening song circle. We are seeking 10 volunteers to work with us in this pilot effort.

Participants will receive complimentary lodging (cabin or campground) and 3 meals: Thursday dinner, Friday breakfast and lunch.

Midwest Women’s Herbal has held the Spring Herbal Conference at Camp Helen Brachman for over 10 years and this service is one way we can give back to these lands we have learned so much from!

✧ Buckthorn is a VERY invasive shrub that quickly outcompetes native plants.
✧ The camp consists of 200 acres of prairie, savannah, and woodlands with unique ecological value.
✧ Buckthorn is increasingly abundant on site, but still early enough in its invasion that we can easily make a meaningful difference with non-chemical methods.
✧ Our approach will be to hand pull seedlings in the sandy soil, and flag larger seed-producing trees for future attention.

You will:
• Learn how to identify, remove, and manage buckthorn
• Gain hands-on experience in environmental stewardship
• Get your questions answered regarding invasive species and restoration opportunities in your own landscapes/communities
• Share the joy of working, singing, laughing, and observing in community.
• We ask women to commit to attending the informational session and both work sessions. If you are only able to work one session, feel free to apply but know that preference will be given to those who can work for both sessions.

Schedule:
May 21st | 1:00-4:30pm- Work Session, 6:30-9:30pm- Evening Song Circle & Evening Program
May 22nd | 9am-12pm- Work Session & Wrap Up

Sign up here: https://form.jotform.com/261017584301045

Question 3

2-Day Intensive: Botany and Sensory Skills for Foragers and Herbalists | Linda Conroy

Accepted Answer

Sensory and botany skills combine human senses with plant biology knowledge. Sensory skills use observation, touch, smell, hearing, and taste to study plants, while botany skills focus on identifying and classifying them by their traits and growth. Together, they support activities like sensory gardening, horticulture therapy, and herbalism to deepen our connection to nature.

This program is designed for herbal enthusiasts, herbalists, foragers and anyone seeking a deeper connection to the green world. The intent is to increase confidence in seeing, experiencing and identifying plants. The program will include practices in identification, observation, and organoleptic (sensory) skills. The goal is for participants to learn skills and increase their confidence and direct engagement with the natural world.

Learning and practicing field botany as well as sensory exercises is practical and fun. Through playful and engaging observation exercises, sensory experiences and utilizing plant keys, everyone will leave this program with skill-building techniques, feeling more confident and excited about creative approaches to engaging with the plant world.

Whether you are new to this work, or looking to expand your experiences and skills, everyone will be able to use this program to expand their knowledge.  Please dress in layers for the weather, much of these two days will be spent outdoors.  The class fee includes: a hand lens, a Plant Identification book, the book Botany in a Day and The book Weeds Heal, which focuses on the sensory aspect of the plant.

Note: Pre-Conference Workshops are not included with Main Conference registration. Either add a Pre-Conference workshop to your Main Conference registration, OR register for the Pre-Conference workshop separately. Visit the Pre-Conference Events webpage for more information, or click here.

Question 4

2 Day Intensive: Three Ways to Make A Great Tincture | Lisa Ganora

Accepted Answer

Dive into the art and science of botanical tincturing in this hands-on, two-day intensive. Learn three versatile tincture-making methods: fresh herb maceration using a blender, percolation-in-a-bottle à la SWSBM, and traditional dried herb maceration in a Mason jar. Over two days, we’ll explore how menstruum choice, herb preparation, extraction ratios, menstruum composition (ethanol %), and timing influence the concentration and potency of herbal extracts.

You’ll gain a solid understanding of extraction principles—polarity, solubility, menstruum strength, and other factors—and how these translate into effective, vibrant tinctures. Each step of the process will be demonstrated and practiced, from measuring and mixing to pressing, filtering, and labeling. We’ll also discuss how to adapt methods for different herbs, how to assess quality and strength, and how to choose the right tincture form for clinical or home use. Whether you’re new to herbal medicine or refining your craft, you’ll leave with the skills, confidence, and insight to make potent, personalized tinctures at home. This class includes detailed worksheets and participants will take home tinctures prepared during the two-day immersion.

Note: Pre-Conference Workshops are not included with Main Conference registration. Either add a Pre-Conference workshop to your Main Conference registration, OR register for the Pre-Conference workshop separately. Visit the Pre-Conference Events webpage for more information, or click here.

Question 5

1-Day Immersion: Herbal Self Care and Magical Rituals: The Green Witch Way For Teens with Robin Rose Bennett

Accepted Answer

Join me and other young Green Witches as we gather together in a circle to awaken and tune into our true selves!  Teen participants will learn fun self care practices utilizing herbs and Green Witch rituals. In deepening your connection with the plants, the Earth and the elements, you deepen your connection with yourself.  In learning to support yourself in practical and magical ways, your unique gifts will blossom!  Plants help you remember that you matter and that your unique gifts are needed in this world.  During this one day immersion, we will explore:
🌀Rituals - Moon, Sun, and just for Fun!
🌀Teachings of the Elements - Earth, Air, Fire, Water, Spirit
🌀Natural Skin Care Recipes - Scrubs, Masks, and more
🌀Plant Meditation - Meeting an herbal ally
🌀Journaling
This workshop is for teens, ages 12-17.

Note: Pre-Conference Workshops are not included with Main Conference registration. Either add a Pre-Conference workshop to your Main Conference registration, OR register for the Pre-Conference workshop separately. Visit the Pre-Conference Events webpage for more information, or click here.

Question 6

1-Day Immersion:  Vocal Empowerment for Women with Celia Farran

Accepted Answer

Vocal Empowerment for Women with Celia Farran
Your voice is the amazing instrument that is always with you. Uncover your feminine power through playful vocal discovery. Celia shares exercises that will leave you with a new appreciation for the often hidden and incredibly expressive part of you called your “Voice”. Expect to become more present in your throat chakra, your vocal singing/speech expression, & your entire body/energy field.  Enjoy claiming ownership of your inner & outer expression whether you want to lead chants, speak more confidently, or simply rock out behind your steering wheel with the windows up (or down!). 
Empowered Voices make for Empowered Women. 
 
In this workshop, you will learn to:
Shift from Mousy to Magnetic
Shift from Silence to Strength
Uncover your Authentic Voice
Unleash the Power of Your Full Expression

Note: Pre-Conference Workshops are not included with Main Conference registration. Either add a Pre-Conference workshop to your Main Conference registration, OR register for the Pre-Conference workshop separately. Visit the Pre-Conference Events webpage for more information, or click here.

Question 7

Whisk Broom Making | Annie Friesen

Accepted Answer

Learn the ancestral craft of broommaking and take home a fully-functional, handmade whisk broom. Gathered in a circle of women, we will spin together the fibers of sorghum bicolor into an heirloom of energetic, spatial clearing.  Let's sweep out the cobwebs and create space for our visions to bloom.

This is a time for women to create something beautiful and useful with their hands, to learn a skill they can pass on to their children, to connect to their ancestors, and to re-energize creativity.  Broom making is meditation. As we spin fiber into a broom, the tension builds in our bodies as we pull tightly on the cord, securing the broom in place. As soon as the final stitch is pulled through and the cord cut, the tension in our bodies is released and we relax with joy as we hold our creation in our hands. In this, a simile to our divine power of giving birth.

This workshop requires dexterity of both hands and feet while sitting for an extended period of time.

Note: Pre-Conference Workshops are not included with Main Conference registration. Either add a Pre-Conference workshop to your Main Conference registration, OR register for the Pre-Conference workshop separately. Visit the Pre-Conference Events webpage for more information, or click here.

Question 8

Rooted & Rising: Group Sound Healing and Vocal Empowering Song Circle | Celia Farran

Accepted Answer

Rooted & Rising: Group Sound Healing and Vocal Empowering Song Circle with Celia Farran
This two-part workshop is an invitation to receive healing, and reconnect with your body, your breath, and the power of your voice in a space of collective support.
We begin with a “Being Sung” group sound healing experience led by Celia, whose work centers on direct, intuitive vocal resonance. Using cupped hands and a highly trained, responsive voice, she tones directly into the back of the body—working with the energetic centers to create a deeply immersive, vibrational experience. Her approach engages both the physical body and energetic field, often described as a visceral, otherworldly sensation of being sung to on a cellular level.
​
From this grounded and open state, we transition into a woman-powered song circle centered on expression, connection, and shared strength. Through simple, accessible vocal techniques, you’ll explore how your individual voice can blend with others to create a unified, resonant group sound. As part of this circle, we’ll also learn and practice some of the songs that will be used during the conference, helping you feel more confident and connected as you contribute your unique voice to the larger gathering.
​
No singing experience is needed. This is a space to reclaim your voice as something to feel, trust, and stand in.
​
Come as you are. Leave more rooted—and rising—in your own voice.

Note: Pre-Conference Workshops are not included with Main Conference registration. Either add a Pre-Conference workshop to your Main Conference registration, OR register for the Pre-Conference workshop separately. Visit the Pre-Conference Events webpage for more information, or click here.

Question 9

Hand Drum Making | Jacquelyn Weber

Accepted Answer

The combination of a simple hoop frame and an animal hide is rich in symbolism, raw in power, and personal to the drum maker. With mood music, ritual sage smudging, and her own experience to support your work, drum maker Jacquelyn Weber will guide you in crafting your own drum and methodically wrapping the handle. Participants will leave the weekend with their own drum to take home!

Part of the process includes letting your drum dry before playing it and hearing its living 'voice'. Additional drums will be available to use during a closing drum circle at the end of our labor.

Note: Pre-Conference Workshops are not included with Main Conference registration. Either add a Pre-Conference workshop to your Main Conference registration, OR register for the Pre-Conference workshop separately. Visit the Pre-Conference Events webpage for more information, or click here.

Question 10

Sip the Earth, Breathe the Sky: A Cacao & Entheogenic Breathwork Activation | Crystal Dawn Silas, MD

Accepted Answer

Step into a sacred circle where the medicine of cacao meets the power of the breath. Together, we’ll ceremoniously sip the Earth’s nectar, awakening the heart with this ancient Mayan plant spirit, then journey inward with Clarity Breathwork, releasing, softening, and opening to insight. Guided with music, intention, and presence, this ceremony invites you to root deeply into your body while expanding into the spacious sky within. Come as you are, and leave nourished, grounded, and uplifted, carrying the gifts of cacao and breath as tools for everyday connection, healing, and blossoming.  Please bring a blanket, yoga mat, pillow for your head, eye pillow, sweater and other items for personal comfort lying down for a period of time.

Note: Pre-Conference Workshops are not included with Main Conference registration. Either add a Pre-Conference workshop to your Main Conference registration, OR register for the Pre-Conference workshop separately. Visit the Pre-Conference Events webpage for more information, or click here.

Question 11

Nurturing Our Nervous Systems | Leanne Hatfield, MD

Accepted Answer

Healthy nervous systems are integral to the vitality of individuals and communities. The nervous system is intertwined with all other systems in our bodies and is the root of many dysfunctions. Let’s explore ways to nourish our individual and collective nervous systems and avoid the varied ways that our nervous systems are sabotaged. We'll identify environmental neurotoxins and discuss supportive foods, herbs, and lifestyle choices that will help us align our nervous systems with vibrant health.

Note: Pre-Conference Workshops are not included with Main Conference registration. Either add a Pre-Conference workshop to your Main Conference registration, OR register for the Pre-Conference workshop separately. Visit the Pre-Conference Events webpage for more information, or click here.

Question 12

Working with Cannabis | Lisa Ganora

Accepted Answer

Explore Cannabis as a potent herbal ally in this accessible, science-informed workshop. You'll learn how cannabinoids, terpenes, and other constituents work together for pain relief, mood balance, managing inflammation, and supporting better sleep. We'll cover how to  make full-spectrum teas, tinctures, and infused oils with effective strains. Whether you're new or experienced, you'll leave with the tools to create safe herbal medicines with Cannabis at home.

Note: Pre-Conference Workshops are not included with Main Conference registration. Either add a Pre-Conference workshop to your Main Conference registration, OR register for the Pre-Conference workshop separately. Visit the Pre-Conference Events webpage for more information, or click here.

Question 13

Yoga and Meditation Retreat | Marguerite Ramlow

Accepted Answer

Unlock your innate potential with the ancient practice of Yoga. This three hour workshop will include a blend of Hatha Yoga, Vinyasa Flow Yoga and Restorative/Gentle Yoga. There will also be time for Guided Meditation to the sound of singing bowls, the study and practice of Pranayama/Yogic breathing and information on Yoga Philosophy. Each attendee will have the opportunity to make and take home a Mala Necklace for your meditation practice.

Note: Pre-Conference Workshops are not included with Main Conference registration. Either add a Pre-Conference workshop to your Main Conference registration, OR register for the Pre-Conference workshop separately. Visit the Pre-Conference Events webpage for more information, or click here.

Question 14

Echoes of the Soul: A Healing Journey for Women Over Fifty Through Shamanic Drumming and Reflective Journaling | Angela Smith

Accepted Answer

Women need safe, sacred spaces that honor their wisdom and support healing.  This workshop will be especially welcoming to women who are navigating life transitions, grief, or a desire for deeper self-understanding. Through ritual and intention setting, we will open the circle and create a nurturing environment for women to reconnect with their inner voice.   You will be introduced to shamanic drumming to connect with ancestors, meet spirit guides and experience emotional release.  You will be guided with journaling prompts to help process your experiences, emotions and insights.  The closing ritual will include group reflection, celebration, future intentions and ways to integrate your experience.  We intend that women will experience increased emotional resilience and clarity along with a renewed sense of purpose and spiritual connection.  Participants are asked to bring a blanket or cushion, a scarf, and a journal and pen.

Note: Pre-Conference Workshops are not included with Main Conference registration. Either add a Pre-Conference workshop to your Main Conference registration, OR register for the Pre-Conference workshop separately. Visit the Pre-Conference Events webpage for more information, or click here.

Question 15

EarthBody: Five Elements Lifestyle Medicine for Seasonal Living | Jiling Lin

Accepted Answer

You are Earth walking on Earth. The patterns within you reflect natural patterns all around you. Explore the art of seasonal living through the Five Elements of East Asian medicine: Water, Wood, Fire, Earth, and Metal. Journey through each Element with tea meditation, gentle movement, reflective writing, and group discussion. Discover the unique qualities of each Element, their seasons, flavors, body systems, Spirit, and more. Learn practices to rest, move, connect, nourish, and create in harmony with seasonal rhythms. Experience your belonging as a wild beautiful EarthBody.

Note: Pre-Conference Workshops are not included with Main Conference registration. Either add a Pre-Conference workshop to your Main Conference registration, OR register for the Pre-Conference workshop separately. Visit the Pre-Conference Events webpage for more information, or click here.

Question 16

Reading The Body | Margi Flint

Accepted Answer

We will identify Generalities of the face with deeper focus on the Heart and Kidneys and Pelvic floor and Lungs.  Each color, line and marking on the face, tongue and nails holds meaning of your internal health.  Knowing what the body has to say, we can learn how to prevent illness before it arrives as well as treating what is here.  Margi will explain and demonstrate diagnostic techniques learned from the late William LeSassier and observed on clients over her forty-plus years in practice.  Information about the Heart, Kidneys, Pelvic floor and Lungs will be shared with respect to:

Diagnostic techniques for assessing the internal state of the body using external cues
How to interpret facial indications that show the health of the organs and organ systems
How to assess tissue color
How to identify energetic signs of hot, cold, damp, and dry conditions
How to read the tongue 
 How to read the body and the Indications of Three
Organ and body correspondences

This immersion will consist of both lecture and hands-on learning.  Please arrive makeup and nail polish free!  If you would like to pre-order Margi's book and have it for the pre conference workshop, contact Midwest Women's Herbal.

Note: Pre-Conference Workshops are not included with Main Conference registration. Either add a Pre-Conference workshop to your Main Conference registration, OR register for the Pre-Conference workshop separately. Visit the Pre-Conference Events webpage for more information, or click here.

Question 17

Moon Magic & Women's Wisdom | Robin Rose Bennett

Accepted Answer

The world needs women’s wisdom, visions and magic, now more than ever.  Honoring all of our cycles of life, Maiden, Mother, Crone, is vital for our personal health and wellbeing.  When women are supported and cared for, we can then make a difference within our families and communities. We will discuss the benefits of Robin Rose’s famous A-Z womb massage oil.  We will explore herbs for centering and nourishing yourself; discuss how to connect with the cycles of the moon; learn to strengthen your intuition, claim your voice and connect deeply with women’s wisdom; deepen your sense of your whole self as sacred space; and, discover herbs for menstruation, mothering, menopause, and beyond!

Note: Pre-Conference Workshops are not included with Main Conference registration. Either add a Pre-Conference workshop to your Main Conference registration, OR register for the Pre-Conference workshop separately. Visit the Pre-Conference Events webpage for more information, or click here.

Midwest Women's Herbal

Workshops & Activities

15th Annual Midwest Women's Herbal Conference
Honoring Deep Roots & Tending New Shoots

May 22-24, 2026 • Almond, WI

Workshops & Activities

2-Day Intensive: Transform Your Voice, Transform Your Life | Cornelia Cho, MD

2-Day Intensive: Singing & Stewardship : A Buckthorn Pull and Pile Work Gathering | Sarah Foltz Jordan and Mari Verbeten

2-Day Intensive: Botany and Sensory Skills for Foragers and Herbalists | Linda Conroy

2 Day Intensive: Three Ways to Make A Great Tincture | Lisa Ganora

1-Day Immersion: Herbal Self Care and Magical Rituals: The Green Witch Way For Teens with Robin Rose Bennett

1-Day Immersion: Vocal Empowerment for Women with Celia Farran

Whisk Broom Making | Annie Friesen

Rooted & Rising: Group Sound Healing and Vocal Empowering Song Circle | Celia Farran

Hand Drum Making | Jacquelyn Weber

Sip the Earth, Breathe the Sky: A Cacao & Entheogenic Breathwork Activation | Crystal Dawn Silas, MD

Nurturing Our Nervous Systems | Leanne Hatfield, MD

Working with Cannabis | Lisa Ganora

Yoga and Meditation Retreat | Marguerite Ramlow

Echoes of the Soul: A Healing Journey for Women Over Fifty Through Shamanic Drumming and Reflective Journaling | Angela Smith

EarthBody: Five Elements Lifestyle Medicine for Seasonal Living | Jiling Lin

Reading The Body | Margi Flint

Moon Magic & Women's Wisdom | Robin Rose Bennett

Presenters
Learn more about the amazing presenters at this year's Midwest Women's Herbal Conference.

Pre-Conference Workshops
Treat yourself to a 1- or 2-Day or 3-Hour long Pre- Conference workshop before the main conference!

Register

Thank You, Sponsors!

Workshops & Activities

15th Annual Midwest Women's Herbal Conference Honoring Deep Roots & Tending New Shoots

May 22-24, 2026 • Almond, WI

Workshops & Activities

2-Day Intensive: Transform Your Voice, Transform Your Life | Cornelia Cho, MD

2-Day Intensive: Singing & Stewardship : A Buckthorn Pull and Pile Work Gathering | Sarah Foltz Jordan and Mari Verbeten

2-Day Intensive: Botany and Sensory Skills for Foragers and Herbalists | Linda Conroy

2 Day Intensive: Three Ways to Make A Great Tincture | Lisa Ganora

1-Day Immersion: Herbal Self Care and Magical Rituals: The Green Witch Way For Teens with Robin Rose Bennett

1-Day Immersion: Vocal Empowerment for Women with Celia Farran

Whisk Broom Making | Annie Friesen

Rooted & Rising: Group Sound Healing and Vocal Empowering Song Circle | Celia Farran

Hand Drum Making | Jacquelyn Weber

Sip the Earth, Breathe the Sky: A Cacao & Entheogenic Breathwork Activation | Crystal Dawn Silas, MD

Nurturing Our Nervous Systems | Leanne Hatfield, MD

Working with Cannabis | Lisa Ganora

Yoga and Meditation Retreat | Marguerite Ramlow

Echoes of the Soul: A Healing Journey for Women Over Fifty Through Shamanic Drumming and Reflective Journaling | Angela Smith

EarthBody: Five Elements Lifestyle Medicine for Seasonal Living | Jiling Lin

Reading The Body | Margi Flint

Moon Magic & Women's Wisdom | Robin Rose Bennett

Presenters Learn more about the amazing presenters at this year's Midwest Women's Herbal Conference.

Pre-Conference Workshops Treat yourself to a 1- or 2-Day or 3-Hour long Pre- Conference workshop before the main conference!

Register

Thank You, Sponsors!

15th Annual Midwest Women's Herbal Conference
Honoring Deep Roots & Tending New Shoots

Presenters
Learn more about the amazing presenters at this year's Midwest Women's Herbal Conference.

Pre-Conference Workshops
Treat yourself to a 1- or 2-Day or 3-Hour long Pre- Conference workshop before the main conference!