Speaking & Workshops

Engaging Talks on Wellbeing and Navigating Change

Person seated outdoors on a cushioned bench, smiling in a nature-filled setting — representing Ilene Schaffer’s coaching focus on warmth, presence, and connection in relaxed environments.

#1 Priority

Cultivate energizing, memorable environments that equip participants with practical tools that actually make a difference.

Whether speaking at a wellness spa, a nonprofit organization, or an intimate gathering, I blend research-informed insights with relevant stories to spark reflection, meaningful conversation, and lasting change.

“Ilene is a ROCK STAR on my Inner Fitness team at Rancho La Puerta! Her engaging style—blending storytelling, warmth, humor, evidence-informed insights, wisdom, and passion for personal development—resonated deeply with guests. I’m thrilled that she will be returning, and I am so excited for everyone who gets to attend her classes!”

- Emily Boorstein, Rancho La Puerta, Wellness Resort & Spa

Signature Talks

Each signature talk blends highlights from the science of well-being with engaging storytelling and practical, take-home tools. After connecting with event organizers, I thoughtfully tailor content to meet the unique needs, goals, and energy of the audience.

Sample Talks:

  • Navigating Change with Strength and Grace

  • Managing Your Mindset And Getting Out Of Your Own Way

  • The Power of Connection: The Heart Of Well-being

  • Creating Your Legacy: One Imprint At A Time

  • The Optimism Effect: How It Can Shift Your Life

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Ilene Schaffer speaking on stage with microphone and balloon arch — representing her dynamic, research-informed approach to coaching, leadership, and wellbeing talks.
Ilene Schaffer presenting a strategic roadmap during a workshop at Rancho La Puerta — highlighting her coaching approach to clarity, insight, and action in serene, nature-connected settings.

Custom Workshops

If you prefer something more intimate for your guests, team, or organization, we can design an interactive experience that meets your specific goals. These workshops are hands-on, reflective, and built to foster connection, insight, and action.

Workshop Features:

  • Tailored content based on your team’s needs

  • Interactive exercises and guided reflection

  • Research-inspired tools for wellbeing and life transitions

  • Hand-outs with session highlights, journaling exercises, and resources

  • Optional pre-session assessments or post-session coaching

Popular Formats:

  • Half-day or full-day retreats

  • Series-based learning (e.g., 3-part wellbeing series)

  • Peer coaching circles

Perfect for wellbeing resorts, ERG’s, and mission-driven initiatives

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What Clients Are Saying

  • Rave reviews from your talk today – my phone is literally blowing up!

    – Barbara C. Edwards, Development Director, Youth Tennis San Diego

  • Ilene’s energy and passion to help others improve the quality of their lives is inspiring. The participants from our What’s Next- Career Re-entry and Development program rated her as one of the best facilitators in the seven-week series.

    – Mercy  Eyadiel, Stanford University

  • The positive reviews are still pouring in! I can honestly say this extent of feedback hasn’t happened with any other speaker that I’m aware of! Well done!"

    – Allison, Rancho Santa Fe Womens Fund

  • I invited Ilene to speak at a Haas Work & Family workshop and was thrilled with the response! Ilene was one of our best speakers and I am hoping that she will continue to come back and speak at Haas events in the future.

    – Shirin Dewani Belur, Haas School of Business MBA

  • Ilene facilitated a tremendous session with our hotel's executive team.  She assisted us in enhancing our professional relationships with leadership techniques that focus on results.  Ilene does not "teach" you to an outcome; she creates an environment in which you lead yourselves to the desired result.  We continue to grow our strategic team dynamic from a foundation that was built during our time with Ilene.

    – Michael Hirschler, Director of Human Resources, Four Seasons Hotel, Seattle

Sample Engagements

Logo featuring a stylized mountain made of blue triangles and the letters 'YPO' beneath it.
Logo for Rancho La Puerta celebrating 85 years, with a mountain and bird illustration, and the phrase 'Celebrating Wellbeing Since 1940'
Logo of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts featuring a stylized tree and the company name.
A black monogram logo with the intertwined letters 'N' and 'L' on a black background.
Logo with a dark blue house outline, a silhouette of a dog, and the word 'LAIR' in yellow letters.
University of California, Berkeley logo with a yellow background and blue seal.
Stanford University logo featuring a green tree and red text.
Zendesk logo with abstract black symbol and company name

Upcoming Events

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Join me for meaningful conversations that inspire clarity, confidence, and a deeper sense of connection.

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