Meet the team
Meet our dedicated team of acne experts.
At Katie Stewart Wellness, we're revolutionizing the way women approach acne and skin health with our experienced and dedicated team of experts.
Position
Founder & CEO
Education
Canadian School of Natural Nutrition
University of Guelph Humber
- Diploma in Natural Nutrition
- Registered Holistic Nutritionist (RHN) Designation
University of Guelph Humber
- Honours Bachelor Degree in Media Studies
- Honours Diploma in Journalism
Member of
CSNN Alumni
CANNP
The founder
Katie Stewart
World's Leading Acne-Focused Registered Holistic Nutritionist – Transforming Skin Health from the Inside Out.
Meet Katie Stewart, a vibrant and unstoppable force in the world of holistic acne clearing. As a Registered Holistic Nutritionist, she’s dedicated her life to empowering women to reclaim their confidence and achieve healthy, clear skin from the inside out.
Katie's journey to becoming a skin saviour began with her own battle against cystic acne. For five long years, she struggled with embarrassing and painful breakouts across her face and body. But rather than letting acne define her, Katie saw it as an opportunity to create positive change.
Her unwavering determination led Katie to go back to school to study nutrition and focused on all things skin health. With her extensive background working in major and minor market television, including 14 years at Hockey Night in Canada, she combined her media savvy with her newfound professional education in holistic nutrition.
The result? The birth of KSW Inc., a groundbreaking company revolutionizing the way women approach acne and skin health. As the Founder and CEO, Katie has meticulously crafted her transformative program, The Clear Skin Solution. Through functional testing and a root cause approach, Katie utilizes her 5 Acne-Clearing Pillars to get to the bottom of her clients’ breakouts.
Katie's mission is crystal clear: she wants women struggling with acne to finally feel confident in their skin again. Through her infectious energy, Katie empowers women to take charge of their health and make informed choices for their skin. She serves as a beacon of inspiration, leading the charge to redefine the way we view beauty and health. From her fun and informative podcast to dynamic and life changing online programs, Katie's impact reaches far and wide, touching the lives of thousands of women around the world.
When she's not busy transforming lives, you’ll find Katie hanging out at home with her husband, two little boys and two dogs. They live in the Niagara region of Ontario, Canada and spend their weekends shopping at local farm stands, grabbing brunch at their favourite spots and running around to kids' sports. And you can guarantee she has a delicious matcha latte in hand while doing it all.
With health and wellness being a top priority for Katie, you’ll often catch her building strength on the Pilates reformer or finding balancing on her yoga mat – keeping her mind, body and soul in tip-top shape. She’s all about embracing positivity and spreading love wherever she goes. Katie's a firm believer in the power of mantras and the magic of a hot bath and a good book.
So, if you're ready to say goodbye to acne and embark on a journey back to vibrant, glowing skin, Katie Stewart is the guide you've been searching for. Get ready to nourish your body, uplift your spirit, and regain control over your skin and health.
Position
Founder & CEO
Education
Canadian School of Natural Nutrition
University of Guelph Humber
- Diploma in Natural Nutrition
- Registered Holistic Nutritionist (RHN) Designation
University of Guelph Humber
- Honours Bachelor Degree in Media Studies
- Honours Diploma in Journalism
Member of
CSNN Alumni
CANNP
position
Chief Programming Officer
Cris Brown
Say hello to Cris Brown. While her title says CPO, we really call her our Brainiac Nutrition Geek. With a dash of wit and a pinch of sass, Cris is here to revolutionize your acne journey.
As a Registered Holistic Nutritionist, Culinary Nutrition Expert, and Certified Food Services Manager, Cris has mastered the art of transforming your plate into a powerhouse of health. She's not just a teacher at the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition; she's a knowledge-sharer extraordinaire!
Cris's own battle with Hashimoto's and personal health struggles ignited her passion for a root cause approach. Now, she fearlessly dives into functional labs, overseeing every detail for our clients inside The Clear Skin Solution. She thrives on enlightening our clients with the "why's" behind their issues, all while geeking out over the latest nutrition studies and books. Her straightforward nature and sense of humour make every session an enlightening and enjoyable experience.
When she's not changing lives through nutrition, Cris is busy taking charge at home with her husband and their three teen daughters. Oh, and let’s not forget her morning coffee ritual with her loyal canine companion, Bruno. It's the secret ingredient to her sanity!
Minimalist skincare is Cris's secret to a glowing complexion – a simple cleanser and face cream are all she needs to conquer the world. In fact, she's a powerhouse for KSW Inc., leading the charge in upgrading the teams skills and knowledge.
So, buckle up and get ready to embark on a laughter-filled, knowledge-packed journey with Cris Brown.
position
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
Paige Fursman
Introducing Paige Fursman, the spirited COO of our company, with a personality as bright as her dog, Nova. With Nova by her side, Paige conquers the world with boundless energy and a zest for life.
When she's not strategizing like a boss, Paige is out there, breaking a sweat and exploring the globe with her adventurous husband. She believes in staying active, hitting the spin bikes, and discovering new corners of the world. Work hard, play hard is her mantra.
As the glue that keeps our company together, Paige is a master multitasker. She effortlessly juggles overseeing client relations and managing our team of acne advisors, making sure everything runs like a well-oiled machine. She's the go-to person for getting things done and keeping everyone in sync.
Paige has a soft spot for matcha lattes, indulging in their creamy goodness whenever she can. But her true brunch game is on point! You'll often find her exploring trendy spots, seeking the perfect avocado toast to satisfy her brunch cravings.
With her vibrant energy and infectious enthusiasm, Paige Fursman brings a spark to our team. She's the powerhouse behind our operations, making things happen and ensuring our clients receive top-notch care. So, raise your matcha latte to Paige, the unstoppable force driving our success.
position
virtual executive assistant
Kaitlin Horne
Say hello to our virtual executive assistant, Kaitlin Horne. With a background rooted in social services, Kaitlin made the courageous decision to pivot into the health and wellness space, driven by her love for fitness and a desire to escape the stagnant nature of corporate culture.
From her years of horseback riding to hours on the yoga mat to her love for strength training, she understands the power of physical activity for both mental and physical health. Kaitlin is currently taking her personal training certification and is excited to further empower individuals on their wellness journeys.
Having battled adult acne, she empathizes deeply with the challenges it presents, nurturing a fervent interest in skincare and self-care practices.
Embracing the hustle of life, Kaitlin is all about turbocharging her well-being by blending various wellness routines at the same time which she refers to as 'habit stacking'. Kaitlin also champions the importance of organization, both at home and work, as she believes that clutter-free spaces provide a clear mind.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Kaitlin finds solace in intuitive movement, often accompanied by her faithful companion, Leo, her soft-coated Wheaten Terrier. Weekends are cherished for leisurely strolls through local markets with her husband and enjoying quality time with family & friends.
Kaitlin savours the tranquility of mornings with a cup of orange pekoe tea and by immersing herself in personal development literature and podcasts. If you need a new audiobook or podcast to listen to, she’s your girl! Her first recommendation would be ‘The Clear Skin Chronicles’ ;).
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Mindset Coach
RACHEL MOLENDA
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Holistic Esthetician & Certified Nutritional Practitioner
Ashley Shkodra
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CHRISTINA SILVEIRA
Nutrition Assistant
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JENNY OCOVICH
Nutrition Assistant
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NATASHA SIMARD
Nutrition Assistant
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Nutrition Assistant & Culinary Nutrition Expert
Laura Hearn
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JESS RUNCA
Certified Nutritional Practitioner & Acne Coach
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JENNA HARTLEN
Certified Nutritional Practitioner & Acne Coach
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Liana Meggetto
Registered Holistic Nutritionist & Acne Coach
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Callie Birtles
Registered Holistic Nutritionist & Acne Coach
Coaching Team
The
position
Registered Holistic Nutritionist & Acne Coach
Callie Birtles
Meet Callie – a Registered Holistic Nutritionist from CSNN & Culinary grad from Liaison College. When she's not busy conquering the kitchen, she's out and about with her trusty sidekick, Tacoma the Alaskan Malamute, exploring her home base, Ottawa, Ontario. Hiking, cycling, and skiing are her jam!
Callie's kitchen game is seriously on point, too. This mom of two is all about experimenting with new recipes and right now she's totally obsessed with Baja fish tacos. She loves pairing them with a tangy mango cabbage slaw, crispy sweet potato fries, and a dollop of chipotle aioli.
Aside from her incredible culinary skills, Callie's got a green thumb, too. In the summer, she's all about nurturing a flourishing vegetable garden right outside her home. Freshness at its finest for all her kitchen creations!
Before diving into the world of food and wellness, Callie spent 13 years proudly serving in the Canadian Forces. Now, she spends her downtime creating memories with her loved ones. Think epic family camping trips, cozy bonfires, and even the occasional country music concert with her awesome crew.
Callie’s got the know-how to help you achieve that radiant, glowing skin you've always dreamed of (in the most delicious way!). She's the real deal, bringing her cool, calm, and collected vibe to help you look and feel your best.
position
Registered Holistic Nutritionist & Acne Coach
Liana Meggetto
Liana Meggetto is a passionate Registered Holistic Nutritionist who graduated from the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition. Her own struggles with digestive troubles ignited her desire to support women and help them cultivate a positive, fearless relationship with food. In addition to her expertise in nutrition, Liana is skilled at empowering her acne clients through mindset work.
Outside of work, Liana cherishes every moment with her beloved cockapoo, Lucky, showering her with snuggles, treats, and endless kisses. Living by the lake, she embraces the sunny days for leisurely walks and energizing home pilates. Starting her mornings with warm lemon water, basking in the morning sunlight, she sets intentions for the day ahead, savouring breakfast and a cup of her current favourite coffee, Kicking Horse's "Hola."
Having triumphed over her own food fears, Liana is an enthusiastic food lover, always up for trying new and exciting flavours. She loves exploring farmers' markets and whipping up mouthwatering dishes with the available ingredients. Her go-to dish at the moment is a delightful gluten-free pasta tossed with cooked cherry tomatoes, extra virgin olive oil, garlic, and fresh basil.
Alongside her skincare routine, she finds solace in gua sha and quenches her thirst with delicious fruit-infused water, currently relishing the refreshing combination of watermelon and basil. True crime documentaries and reality TV serve as guilty pleasures, while she indulges in monthly lymphatic drainage massages and savours the delights of outdoor summer concerts and drive-ins.
position
CERTIFIED NUTRITIONAL PRACTITIONER & Acne Coach
Jenna Hartlen
Say hello to Jenna, a dynamic Certified Nutritional Practitioner who's all about empowering you to feel and look amazing. With her whole-person approach, she dives deep into the connections between body, mind, and spirit for total wellness.
Jenna's love for holistic health blossomed early, growing up on a traditional farm and learning ancestral meal prep from her grandma. Her love of holistic healing, fueled a passion that's lasted a lifetime. After a stint as a racehorse exerciser and embracing motherhood, Jenna pivoted to nutrition, graduating from the Institute of Holistic Nutrition.
She's a learning enthusiast, always diving into the latest courses, books, podcasts, and webinars. When she's not soaking up new knowledge or guiding others, Jenna's all about family time, grounding yoga, or nurturing her garden.
Jenna, a pro at balancing mom life and self-care, loves her peppermint tea with a homemade flu bomb and honey. She's your go-to for making a holistic lifestyle both fun and doable.
position
Nutrition assistant
Laura Hearn
Meet Laura Hearn, the Culinary Nutrition Expert who's on a mission to kitchen domination! With a burning love for food and a dash of empowerment, she's here to make your taste buds dance and your health soar.
After breaking free from corporate burnout, Laura discovered the magic of self-care. Now, as a studying Holistic Nutritionist at the Institute of Holistic Nutrition, she's sharing her secret recipe for wellness with our clients in The Clear Skin Solution. Delicious food.
When she's not concocting her own healthy masterpieces or collecting cookbooks like a pro (100 and counting!), you'll find Laura exploring farmer's markets, cozy coffee shops, and gluten-free bakeries. And don't forget the stunning sunsets at her family cottage in Sauble Beach, where she enjoys quality time with her awesome husband, two grown-up kiddos, and her spirited Malitipoo, Fozzie.
Join Laura in the kitchen revolution and let the fun-filled flavours nourish your skin.
position
nutrition assistant
Natasha Simard
Get ready to be inspired by Natasha! Not only is she balancing life as a supermom to four kiddos, she's also hitting the books hard at the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition (CSNN). Oh, and did we mention she's doing all of this amidst the jaw-dropping beauty of Vancouver Island, British Columbia?
What's her secret sauce for juggling it all? Well, it's a blend of fierce dedication, sky-high motivation, and a deep-rooted passion for health and fitness. When Natasha's not diving into textbooks or taking on the world of motherhood, you'll find her at the gym flexing her strength-training muscles. If she's not there, she's probably out exploring the great outdoors, soaking up all the refreshing vibes that British Columbia has to offer.
Natasha knows how to unwind, too. She loves nothing more than a good movie night and jamming out to her favourite tunes. She's also a fan of soul-soothing walks, perfect for clearing the mind and recharging the soul. And let's not forget those precious moments spent with her nearest and dearest; that's what really fills her cup.
Speaking of cups, let's talk about her morning brew. Natasha's a big fan of starting her day with a Kicking Horse Decaf Latte with Oat Milk. On special days, she switches things up with a cozy 5 Mushroom Hot Chocolate. It’s like her own personal sunrise in a mug!
Here's the really special part: Natasha knows the acne struggle all too well. She was actually a former client in The Clear Skin Solution, so she's walked the path that many are navigating now. That’s what makes her extra excited to be part of a team where she can contribute both her personal journey and her academic learning. She's keen on helping others not just get clear skin but do it holistically, blending mind, body, and spirit.
So whether you're looking for some top-notch health advice, a gym buddy, or just some tried-and-true recommendations for treating your skin, Natasha’s your woman. She's living proof that life’s challenges can fuel your passions, and she can't wait to share her holistic wisdom with you!
position
Esthetician & Certified Nutritional Practitioner
Ashley Shkodra
Meet Ashley, our radiant Holistic Esthetician and Skincare Guru inside The Clear Skin Solution. With years of experience in the esthetics and cosmetic industry, Ashley knows all the secrets to making your skin glow like never before. Now here’s the best part, she's not just your average esthetician. Ashley is also a Certified Nutritional Practitioner and blends her expertise in skincare and nutrition to provide a 360 approach to acne-clearing.
When she's not pampering her clients and perfecting her skincare routines, Ashley unleashes her inner salad artist. She whips up incredible salads that are not only delicious but also a testament to her creative flair. Cooking up a storm in the kitchen is her ultimate hobby, and her salads are known to be masterpieces that satisfy both the taste buds and the soul.
Living in the heart of vibrant downtown Toronto, Ashley is always in the know about the city's hottest food spots and bustling markets. You'll often find her strolling through the streets, uncovering hidden gems and seeking out culinary adventures.
Whether she's reviving your skin, curating the perfect salad, or exploring the city's gastronomic wonders, Ashley's zest for life shines through in everything she does. Get ready to embark on a new holistic skincare journey with Ashley and The CSS team.
position
MINDSET COACH
Rachel Molenda
Rachel Molenda (@rachelmmolenda) is Mindset Coach, Motivational Speaker & Sacred DJ for women who want to cultivate the courage to do the damn thing and reach their life goals.
Rachel leverages the activating nature of like-minded community, coaching and in-real-life experiences to help turn the light back on in women who have fallen prey to burn out and self-doubt so they can get back to doing what they were born to do.
Learn more about Rachel at rachelmmolenda.com.
position
CERTIFIED NUTRITIONAL PRACTITIONER & ACNE COACH
Jessica Runca
Let's introduce you to Jess! She's not just any nutritional expert; she's a top-notch grad from the Institute of Holistic Nutrition with a knack for blending serious know-how with a warm, honest touch. Think of her as your go-to for a journey that nurtures your body, mind, and spirit. Jess gets it—she's been there, battling her own health challenges, and she's all about guiding you to be your best self.
Jess is a master at weaving nutrition with a whole-life wellness vibe. Her mission? To empower you with knowledge and confidence about your body, sparking transformations that stick.
Mornings for Jess? They're chill and refreshing. Picture her enjoying a zesty electrolyte mocktail, followed by an energizing walk or workout. Movement is her secret sauce to feeling fabulous!
Outside the wellness world, Jess loves hanging out with her four-legged buddy, Cali. They're often found basking in nature, soaking up every bit of sunshine and outdoor magic.
And when it's time to unwind, Jess is all about cozy vibes. She's your puzzle-putting-together, podcast-listening, loved-ones-hanging, book-devouring kind of gal. Trust me, with Jess, you're in for a ride that's as fun as it is transformative!
position
NUTRITION ASSISTANT
Jenny Ocovich
Say hello to Jenny, a radiant soul with a passion for holistic health and a zest for life! As a Registered Holistic Nutritionist graduating from the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition, and a Nutrition Assistant for KSW, she's on a mission to spread the word of wellness, one nourishing meal at a time.
From the moment Jenny discovered the transformative power of holistic health, she knew she had found her calling. But Jenny’s path to wellness wasn't always smooth sailing. Like many of us, she faced her own struggles, battling with acne and gut issues until she discovered the transformative power of dietary and lifestyle changes. It was through this journey of self-discovery and healing that she found her true calling, inspiring her to help others embark on their own path to radiant health and vitality.
When she's not busy empowering others to reclaim their health and vitality, you can find Jenny flowing through sun salutations on her yoga mat or out hiking in the woods. With every step she takes, she's reminded of the importance of grounding and connecting with the earth.
So whether she's guiding others on their wellness journey, exploring the great outdoors, or simply savouring the magic of a breathtaking sunset, one thing's for sure – Jenny is living proof that when we nourish our bodies, minds, and spirits, we can truly shine bright like the stars!
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NUTRITION ASSISTANT
Christina Silveira
Christina is a homeschooling mama to two kiddos and in the final stretch of completing her studies at the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition (CSNN). When she is not homeschooling or hitting the books, she spends her time in the garden. She has nine garden beds all dedicated to growing her own food and preserving for the winter months. Nothing feeds her soul more than having her hands in the dirt with the help from her kids!
Christina starts her mornings with warm lemon water, followed by a cup of ginger lemon tea or a matcha oat milk latte. She finds exploring the forest and being still in nature rejuvenating. Her passion for living a holistic life exudes in her daily life. From DIYing natural cleaning and self-care products to supporting local farmers markets to add farm fresh ingredients to her meals, Christina is passionate about educating others about the importance of toxic-free living.
Christina is also a huge pet lover! Her current pet is a rescued 10 year old Maine Coon cat named Tiger, who is the sweetest and chattiest cat she has ever owned! She also babysits dogs that are currently undergoing their ADS training.
When it’s time to unwind, you’ll find Christina listening to podcasts, getting a massage, spending time with loved ones, cuddling up for a movie night with her family, basking in the sun or jamming out to reggaeton music.
Acne Advisors
The
position
Acne Advisor
Tessa Eisenberg
Tessa Eisenberg is a lifelong creative. Originally from Vermont, Tessa moved to Toronto to pursue a bigger life. She studied improv at The Second City, joined a creative writing circle, and now you can find her singing a blend of jazz, neo-soul, and contemporary pop covers with a handful of local bands on select weeknights in the city.
Tessa joins the KSW team as a former client who walked away from her time inside The Clear Skin Solution with a renewed interest in her own sense of well-being. She learned how to nourish her body and how to slow down. Tessa understands that she is the product of what happens when people who never invest in themselves decide to invest in themselves. She cannot wait to help other women rediscover their life force as the newest Acne Advisor on the team.
When Tessa is not assisting clients in the CSS, you can find her at her other day job, where she leads daily marketing calls and assists a cohort of nonfiction authors within the world of book publishing. Prior to finding the team at KSW, Tessa held positions in not-for-profit management, event planning, and sales. After years of putting herself and her health last on her priority list, she is so excited to assist other women with their wellness and to help them renew their connection to themselves.
Tessa enjoys a daily cup of organic Kicking Horse coffee with a splash of almond milk, and she is an advocate for the morning walk. She is affectionately awoken on a daily basis by her domestic shorthair, Billie, who sometimes flies on airplanes like an absolute pro. She is deeply grateful to be here, and she’s ready to change other women’s lives for the better.
position
Acne Advisor
Michelle Owens
Meet Michelle, our adventurous Acne Advisor! With a backpack always ready and a passport full of stamps, Michelle has been a globetrotter for the past decade, exploring the far corners of the world. Her educational journey led her through the realms of global studies and communications, equipping her with a deep understanding of diverse cultures and effective communication.
But that's not all—Michelle's professional background shines just as brightly. She successfully ran her own business in event and wedding coordination, making dream celebrations come true for countless couples. However, her personal experience with acne sparked a passion within her to help others find their path to clear, radiant skin. Michelle herself underwent a transformative journey as a client of of ours in The Clear Skin Solution.
Driven by her entrepreneurial spirit, Michelle thrives on bringing her diverse skills together. In addition to being an expert Acne Advisor, she is a certified yoga instructor, guiding people towards inner balance and self-care. With her fluency in Spanish, she connects with people from all walks of life, ensuring no one is left behind in their quest for healthy skin.
When Michelle is not immersed in the world of acne, you'll find her embracing her inner beach surf town bum, catching waves and soaking up the sun's warmth. She loves natural skincare brands and they’re always packed in her bags for any sun-kissed journey. With a love for the great outdoors, Michelle constantly seeks new adventures, eager to explore hidden treasures and create unforgettable memories.
During downtime, Michelle reigns as the queen of Audible and podcasts, always seeking knowledge and inspiration. She embraces the power of words and stories to fuel her growth and share wisdom with others.
With her vibrant personality, passion for helping those with acne, and a sprinkle of wanderlust, she's ready to guide you on your journey towards clear, confident skin.
