Beyond her academic pursuits, Heather’s heart lies in her garden, where she nurtures and grows a vibrant array of herbs and plants. Her green thumb extends to her passion for canning, preserving the flavors of each season’s bounty. In her kitchen, she’s known for her artistry in baking and gluten-free cooking, crafting nourishing meals that delight the senses.

Heather’s commitment to holistic wellness is deeply personal. She specializes in autoimmune disorders such as celiac disease and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, having achieved remission through a rigorous combination of dietary modifications and herbal support. Her journey towards healing has not only informed her practice but also fuels her dedication to guiding others on their paths to wellness.

As a mother to three beautiful children – Mackenzie, Blake, and Scott – Heather understands the importance of nurturing not only physical but also emotional well-being in children which is why she teaches a free mindfulness for kids program twice a year. Heather and her family lead a deeply holistic and eco-friendly lifestyle. They are committed to mindful living, which includes being exceptionally conscious of what goes into their bodies. Heather understands the direct link between food, chemicals, additives, and overall well-being. She prioritizes wholesome, organic, biodynamic natural foods and avoids additives like artificial dyes, preservatives, aligning with her dedication to holistic wellness.

Heather has shared her life with her husband Steven since 2008. Both graduated from Oxford High School, and they share a love for fishing along the Au Sable River in their Stealthcraft. Steven is an Engineer and an avid MTB racer. Heather, along with their children can often be found cheering him on at local mountain bike (MTB) races throughout the year.

Heather is on a continuous academic journey that reflects her unwavering commitment to holistic well-being. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Wellness, Health Promotion, and Injury Prevention from Oakland University, studied at U of M for her Master of Public Health, and Completed a Holistic Nutrition and Master Herbalist program which laid the foundation for her holistic approach to health. Currently, she’s diligently working towards her PhD in Naturopathy, further deepening her expertise in natural healing and wellness practices and plans to graduate this winter.

Heather is excited to share her expertise in mindfulness, nutrition, and physical activity programs with the Wild + Rooted community. One of her most cherished programs is Cooking with Kids, a family-based nutrition program. She believes that when families learn together, they’re more likely to embrace healthy behaviors and succeed collectively. Heather envisions Wild + Rooted as a cornerstone of health and wellness in the community, evolving into a comprehensive wellness center. She hosts open breastfeeding support hours every Tuesday from 10 am to 12 pm, providing a welcoming space for new moms and expectant mothers to receive free breastfeeding support while enjoying a comforting cup of tea.

With a deep commitment to ancestral herbal practices, holistic well-being, and her ongoing education, Heather is dedicated to empowering individuals and families to lead healthier lives and reconnect with the wisdom of our ancestors.