Stephanie McLean From hormones to human design, this three-day event brought together trailblazers in science, self-care, and holistic health to redefine what it means to thrive.
Held at The Star in Brisbane, the Kailo Summit 2025 was more than just a wellness event, it was a forward-thinking convergence of medicine, mindset, and modern self-care. Curated in partnership with goop and two and a half years in the making, the three-day gathering brought together some of the sharpest minds in science and wellness to share tangible tools and ideas shaping the future of health.
Among the standout voices was Dr Devini Ameratunga, an endocrinologist passionate about empowering patients through hormone education. She delved deep into the relationship between stress and hormonal health, reminding attendees that “chronic stress isn’t just uncomfortable, it’s disruptive.” From sleep disturbances and low libido to insulin resistance and anxiety, her session unpacked how stress, poor sleep, and endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are quietly affecting our mood, metabolism, and long-term vitality. She also addressed the emerging interest in bioidentical hormones, adaptogens, and controversial yet promising options like dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and melatonin.
From the clinical to the cellular, Dr Adeel Khan introduced attendees to Muse cells; rare, super-repair stem cells that offer remarkable regenerative potential. His talk explored how these intelligent cells, capable of transforming into any tissue type, could one day change how we treat age-related decline. With the ability to home in on damaged tissues and rebuild them from the inside out, Muse cells represent a promising leap forward in cellular medicine.
Wellness wasn’t only approached through a scientific lens. Dr Sarah Jane (Perri), award-winning chiropractor and founder of the Spinal Energetics method, led a compelling session exploring the intersection of physical, emotional, and energetic healing. Her gentle yet powerful approach encourages the release of stored trauma through nervous system regulation and embodied movement. With a background that bridges clinical science and holistic health, Dr Sarah’s work offers a new pathway for those looking to reconnect with their bodies and shift long-held patterns. Her session was a standout for those seeking a deeper, more integrated approach to personal healing.
Fitness industry veteran Jay Cardiello delivered a candid keynote, critiquing common wellness fads and encouraging attendees to stop looking for hope “at the bottom of a juice bottle.” He shared insights into why the fitness world often fails to address root causes and how lifestyle change needs to be sustainable, individualised, and emotionally grounded to truly take hold.
On a more introspective note, Krystal Woods introduced attendees to the power of Human Design, a unique framework that helps individuals better understand how they’re wired to make decisions, process information, and live in alignment. Her takeaway? “Wellness isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s about asking: What actually works for me?”
The Ageing Gracefully panel, featuring voices like Jane McCann, Dr Adeel Khan, and Megan Horn, challenged outdated beauty narratives. “Why is it not enough to care for our faces?” asked McCann. “Now we’re being told to rejuvenate body parts we never even see.” The conversation shifted from aesthetic perfection to prioritising strength, skin health, and quality of life. They also addressed myths about wellness being “only for the wealthy,” stressing the importance of access, education, and community.
Catching up with the founders of the Kailo Summit, Kath Merlo and Kristy Morris, we spoke about the intention behind the event, its evolution, and the powerful intersection of science, wellness, and modern spirituality that made it so unique.
What inspired the creation of the Kailo Summit, and how did you curate such a diverse blend of science, wellness, and spirituality?
“We have always been inspired by the latest in health and wellbeing, and the combination of what is at the forefront of modern medicine and technology, with ancient traditions and holistic approaches. We were inspired by what goop has done in bringing many previously taboo topics into the mainstream such as mental and sexual health, relationships and menopause. This is largely why the Summit resonated with goop as a brand. It aimed to provoke conversation and spark curiosity. We hope the Summit does that for the audience.” – Kath Merlo, Co-founder of KAILO Medi-spa and Creator of The KAILO Summit
With so many industry voices involved, how did you ensure the summit remained aligned with Kailo’s core philosophy of personalised, integrated wellbeing?
“Kath and I have always embraced a holistic approach to growing our business. We’re deeply committed to ongoing global research, allowing us to bring the most current insights and education to our community. Each speaker at the summit was someone we had a personal connection with and whose work we’ve experienced firsthand. For example, I underwent stem cell treatment with Dr. Khan last year, and Jay Cardiello has personally coached me in health and wellbeing.” – Kristy Morris, CEO and co-founder of KAILO and Creator of The KAILO Summit
What do you hope attendees took away from the summit, not just professionally, but personally?
“Our aim was to deliver a broad spectrum of educational content, spanning both medical and holistic practices, to open minds and inspire individuals to take ownership of their health journey. On a deeper level, our mission was to expand our vibrant community and foster meaningful, lasting connections.” – Kristy Morris.
Whether discussing menopause myths, meditation misconceptions, or the science of cellular reprogramming, the Summit emphasised one core message: the future of wellness is personalised, informed, and deeply holistic.
With Kailo Nutrition’s latest offerings on show, beautifully curated food experiences, and intimate moments with brand founders and keynote speakers, the event was a meaningful celebration of where modern wellness is headed.
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