The REAL Connections Retreat is a two-day event designed to foster resilience, self-awareness, and supportive connections with likeminded people through sharing experiences, interactive sessions, workshops, and activities. Discover how to harness your inner strength and build a more resilient, fulfilling life.

Of course!  We want to make this experience affordable for everyone. We offer early bird discounts and group rates. Please check our website for the latest offers and discount codes. 

Yes, the registration fee includes two delicious lunches and one continental breakfast. Additional snacks and beverages will also be provided.  Dinner will be provided on Friday night for those who purchase the full event ticket or the VIP Dinner event ticket.  Please contact us with any food allergies or need for dietary accommodations.

Accommodations are not included in the registration fee. However, we have partnered with the University of Utah Guest House to offer discounted rates for our attendees. Please visit our (accommodation page??) for more details and a link to secure a room.  There are several other hotels in the area as well. 

 Our breakout sessions are designed to provide interactive and engaging experiences on topics such as resilience, self-awareness, and personal growth. Each session is led by an expert in the field.

The Listening Lounge is a dedicated space where attendees can relax, reflect, and decompress. It features comfortable seating and a quiet, calm atmosphere, perfect for taking a break and easing any anxiety. We will have a menu of podcasts, inspirational messages, and music to help you rejuvenate and find peace during the retreat.

The VIP Listener Appreciation Ticket offers an exclusive experience designed to elevate your retreat journey. Here’s what’s included:

• All Event Ticket Including VIP Dinner: Enjoy access to all retreat events and an exclusive VIP dinner with Jeffery C. Olsen.

• Deluxe Overnight Accommodations: Relax in deluxe overnight accommodations for a comfortable and restful stay - up to 4 people per room.

• Meet and Greet with Jennie and Michelle: Get the opportunity to personally meet and connect with Jennie Taylor and Michelle Scharf.

• Upgraded Seating at Group Events: Benefit from upgraded seating at all group events for the best view and experience.

• Front of the Line Book Signings: Enjoy front-of-the-line access for book signings with our speakers and authors.

• Small Group Sound/Forest Bath: Participate in an intimate sound or forest bath session for relaxation and rejuvenation.

• Upgraded Chair Massage: Experience an upgraded chair massage for deeper relaxation and relief.

• R.E.A.L Swag: Receive exclusive R.E.A.L. swag items as a special keepsake.

• One-on-One Coaching Session with Michelle Scharf: Benefit from a personalized one-on-one coaching session with Michelle Scharf.

• Free LifeSync Soulistic Planner from Novel Expressions: This planner is not just a tool for organizing your daily tasks; it is a guide to living a soulistic life—a life where your mind, body, and soul are in perfect alignment.

• 10% off Future Events: Enjoy a 10% discount on any future events hosted by Novel Expressions and the hosts of the Relentlessly Resilient Podcast.

Yes, a detailed schedule of events will be provided closer to the retreat date. You can also check our website for updates and a preliminary schedule.

Aside from wonderful speakers, interactive breakout sessions, and activities, there will be a variety of additional offerings to enhance your experience. You'll find booths from vendors who promote resilience, a library where you can purchase books and other media, chair massages, optional meditation activities, the Listening Lounge, and much more. These additional elements are designed to provide you with tools and resources to support your journey toward resilience and personal growth.

We are thrilled to have Jeffrey C. Olsen as our keynote speaker. After surviving a tragic car accident that claimed the lives of his wife and youngest son, Jeffrey faced unimaginable grief and physical injuries. Despite these overwhelming challenges, he found a path to healing and purpose. Through his journey, Jeffrey discovered profound insights about love, life, and the human spirit's ability to endure and thrive. His compelling story of resilience, hope, and transformation has touched countless lives, making him a sought-after speaker for those seeking inspiration and strength in the face of adversity. Join us at the REAL Connections Retreat to hear Jeffrey's remarkable story and learn how to cultivate resilience in your own life.

We are thrilled to have Mary Crafts, author of Unbounded: From Sorrow to Summit. Mary Crafts is a renowned entrepreneur, speaker, and author whose life story is a testament to unbounded resilience and determination. Faced with personal and professional challenges, Mary transformed her sorrow into strength, climbing her way to success. In her inspiring memoir, "Unbounded: From Sorrow to Summit," Mary shares her journey from the depths of grief to reaching new heights of accomplishment and fulfillment. Through her candid storytelling and invaluable lessons, Mary empowers others to overcome obstacles and embrace their potential. Join us at the REAL Connections Retreat to hear Mary Crafts’ incredible journey and discover how you, too, can rise above life's challenges and achieve your summit.

Yes, attendees will have the opportunity to engage with speakers during Q&A sessions, panel discussions, and networking breaks.  There will also be time set aside for them to sign books. 

We recommend bringing comfortable clothing, a notebook and pen for taking notes, a water bottle, and an open mind ready for learning and connecting. We know this can be challenging for some, so we invite you to embrace vulnerability as you invest in yourself and your journey through resilience. By opening up and sharing your experiences, you'll find strength, support, and growth in the community we're building together.

You can stay updated by following us on social media and checking back on the website. We will provide regular updates and important information leading up to the event.

If you have any additional questions, please feel free to contact us at relentlesslyresilient@gmail.com or call us at 801-550-9184. Our team is here to help! 

The REAL Connections Retreat will be held at Fort Douglas Officers Club and the University of Utah Guest House, located at 150 South Fort Douglas Blvd. in Salt Lake City, Utah. 

Salt Lake City International Airport or SLC, is the closest airport to the University of Utah. From the airport, the drive is roughly 15 miles and should take about 40 minutes to get from the airport, through downtown Salt Lake City, and to the University of Utah's campus.

• By Trax: The Trax light rail system provides convenient access to our venue. The nearest station is the Fort Douglas Stop, which is just a short walk from the retreat location. For more details on Trax routes and schedules, visit the Trax website.

• By Car: If you are driving to the event, we have designated parking lots available for attendees. A map and further instructions will be provided. Parking is available, and attendants will be on-site to assist you

We recommend carpooling or using ride-sharing services to make your commute easier as school at the university will be in session and it is more environmentally friendly.

Salt Lake City is a vibrant destination with a rich history and a variety of attractions. Here are some must-see sites to explore while you're in town for the REAL Connections Retreat:

• Temple Square: Visit this iconic landmark in the heart of Salt Lake City, featuring the stunning Salt Lake Temple, the Tabernacle, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Temple Square is a significant cultural and historical site.

• Utah State Capitol: Take a tour of the Utah State Capitol building, which offers breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains. The architecture and historical exhibits are worth exploring.

• Red Butte Garden and Arboretum: Enjoy a peaceful stroll through this botanical garden and arboretum, which features a wide variety of plants, walking paths, and stunning views of the Wasatch Range.

• Natural History Museum of Utah: Discover fascinating exhibits on the natural history of Utah, including dinosaur fossils, Native American artifacts, and interactive displays that engage visitors of all ages.

• The Great Salt Lake: Explore the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere. You can visit Antelope Island State Park, where you can hike, bike, and see wildlife such as bison and antelope.

• The Leonardo Museum: Engage with interactive exhibits on art, science, and technology at this innovative museum located in downtown Salt Lake City.

• City Creek Center: Enjoy shopping and dining at this upscale, open-air shopping center. City Creek Center features a variety of stores, restaurants, and a beautiful creek running through the property.

• Hogle Zoo: Visit the Hogle Zoo, which houses a diverse collection of animals and offers educational programs and special events.

• Sugar House: Explore the vibrant Sugar House neighborhood, known for its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and parks. It's a great area for a leisurely stroll and some local flavor.

• Big Cottonwood Canyon: If you have time for a short drive, head to Big Cottonwood Canyon for breathtaking scenery, hiking trails, and opportunities for rock climbing and fishing. It's a natural wonder just a short distance from the city.

Fort Douglas, located in Salt Lake City, Utah, has a rich and varied history that dates back to the mid-19th century. Here’s an overview of its history:

Establishment and Early Years

• Founding (1862): Fort Douglas was established on October 26, 1862, by the U.S. Army during the American Civil War. It was originally named Camp Douglas in honor of Senator Stephen A. Douglas, who was an advocate for western expansion.

• Purpose: The primary purpose of the fort was to protect the overland mail route and telegraph lines along the Central Overland Route and to keep an eye on the Mormons in Salt Lake City, ensuring their loyalty to the Union during the Civil War.

Development and Expansion

• Post-Civil War: After the Civil War, Fort Douglas continued to serve as a key military post in the western United States. It played a role in the Indian Wars, helping to protect settlers and maintain order in the region.

• Spanish-American War (1898): During the Spanish-American War, Fort Douglas was used as a muster and training site for troops heading to fight in the Philippines and Cuba.

20th Century Changes

• World War I (1917-1918): During World War I, Fort Douglas served as a training base for troops.  It was also used duringGerman American internment, and as a camp for Imperial German Navy POWs.

• Interwar Period: Between the world wars, the fort continued to be an active military installation, with several improvements and expansions taking place.

• World War II (1939-1945): In World War II, Fort Douglas was again a critical military site, functioning as a reception and training center for soldiers. It also housed Italian and German prisoners of war.

Post-World War II Era

• Decline in Military Use: After World War II, the strategic importance of Fort Douglas began to wane. Parts of the fort were decommissioned, and its role was gradually reduced.

• Closure (1991): In 1991, Fort Douglas was officially closed as an active military installation as part of the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process.

Present Day

• University of Utah: Portions of the fort were transferred to the University of Utah, which has integrated many of the historic buildings into its campus. The area now serves educational purposes and provides student housing.

• Fort Douglas Military Museum: The Fort Douglas Military Museum preserves and interprets the history of Fort Douglas and the military history of Utah. The museum features exhibits on the fort's role in various conflicts and its impact on the local community.

• Historic District: Fort Douglas is a designated National Historic Landmark District, preserving its historic buildings and structures for future generations to explore and learn from.

Fort Douglas remains a significant historical site, reflecting the diverse military and cultural history of Utah and the western United States.