Founder & Host: Christina Yoc

Roaring Lion Ranch & Retreat

In 2016, Christina Yoc set out to transform a 10-acre property in the heart of the Midwest into something far more meaningful than a working farm. She envisioned a sanctuary where people could unplug from the modern world, reconnect with nature, and rediscover the value of simple, intentional living. That vision became Roaring Lion Ranch & Retreat — a space dedicated to regenerative agriculture, holistic wellness, and educational enrichment rooted in nature.

Christina is a proud graduate of Purdue University’s Krannert School of Business and brings with her over 20 years of experience in veterinary medicine and business management. With a natural entrepreneurial spirit and a deep love for following her passions, she has skillfully blended her professional background with her personal values to create a unique, purpose-driven retreat.

Her profound respect for the land, compassion for animals, and unwavering dedication to lifelong learning have laid the foundation for the ranch’s mission. Guided by a heart for helping others, Christina built Roaring Lion Ranch as a welcoming place to slow down, get back to basics, and embrace the balance between modern life and natural simplicity.

In addition to running the ranch and hosting educational retreats, Christina is also a Fishing Clinic Instructor for the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. In this role, she teaches youth groups, families, and individuals how to fish or rekindle their love for the outdoors. She also leads efforts to expand this program’s outreach, offering outdoor enrichment activities to seniors and special needs groups throughout the community — ensuring that nature is accessible, healing, and inclusive for all.

Whether she's cultivating soil, rescuing animals, or mentoring others, Christina thrives on teaching those who are interested in bettering themselves and learning through hands-on experience. Her work is rooted in a belief that healing, growth, and connection all begin in nature — and that a slower, more meaningful life is possible when we return to the land.

Seed Germination, Grow & Plant Specialists

We’re honored to welcome multiple guest speakers with deep expertise in seed germination and cannabis genetics. With years of hands-on experience in both cultivation and plant research, these guest speakers have worked in several cannabis sectors to include preservation of original & untampered cannabis strains & they also have a role in the genetic building blocks of today’s medicinal & recreational varieties.

With multiple approaches, their combined knowledge & expertise extends beyond the garden. These speakers will explore how specific heirloom strains can play a critical role in symptom management, from chronic pain and inflammation to anxiety and neurological conditions—when used with intention and respect as plant-based medicine use and recreational usages.

At the retreat, this rare and insightful session will cover: Best practices for germinating seeds naturally and successfully. Understanding landrace lineage and why it matters. The connection between strain profile, cannabinoid expression, and therapeutic outcomes

If you’re curious about growing your own medicine, preserving seed genetics, or using cannabis in a more mindful, informed way, this is a can’t-miss conversation—delivered by those who live and breathe plant integrity from the soil up.

Guest Speaker: Jim Weddigen

CBD Botanicals

Jim Weddigen is the founder of CBD Botanicals, a trusted provider of premium hemp products committed to wellness and education. With over 17 years of experience in pharmaceutical and pulmonary healthcare, Jim brings a unique blend of scientific expertise and practical knowledge to his work with plant medicine.

At this retreat, Jim will break down how CBD and THC interact with the human body, specifically focusing on the endocannabinoid system—a crucial network that helps regulate pain, mood, sleep, and immune response. Drawing from his extensive background, Jim offers clear, evidence-based insights into how cannabinoids can support natural healing and enhance overall wellbeing.

Whether you’re exploring natural alternatives for stress management, pain relief, or general health, Jim’s approachable presentation will equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about integrating hemp-based remedies into your lifestyle.

Join Jim for an engaging session to uncover the science behind CBD and THC and learn how these powerful plant compounds work to restore balance and promote health.

Guest Speakers & Host: Sid Stanton & Ed Gonet

Soil Food

Sid Stanton is the creative force behind Soil Food, a Central Illinois–based family business she co-founded in 2015 alongside Ed Gonet. What began as a humble basement experiment soon blossomed into a thriving commercial worm farm supporting gardens, orchards, and farms around the globe. Sid brings her passion for ecological soil health to life by producing 100% pure worm castings—natural, nutrient-rich fertilizer she affectionately calls “worm poo.” A featured guest on NPR Illinois, Sid emphasizes educating others on how to grow healthy soil and build a sustainable future nprillinois.org+3nprillinois.org+3instagram.com+3.

In addition to Soil Food, Sid runs Sid Stanton Design in Petersburg, IL, where she channels her artistic eye and entrepreneurial spirit into community-enhancing design projects. Whether it's elevating a backyard ecosystem or refreshing a local space, Sid’s creativity and dedication are evident in every endeavor.

A lifelong gardener and eco-advocate, Sid believes in the power of small, thoughtful actions to spark big change. At Roaring Lion Ranch, she helps guests cultivate curiosity, connection, and hands-on learning—from worm-friendly composting to beautiful, meaningful design.

Guest Speaker: Dr. Sean McCaffrey

McCaffrey Health Center

Dr. Sean McCaffrey is a renowned holistic healthcare practitioner with over 20 years of experience in restoring health and wellness. As the founder of McCaffrey Health Center in Springfield, Illinois, he developed the McCaffrey Method, an integrative approach combining chiropractic care, functional neurology, nutritional therapy, and various traditional healing modalities. drseanmccaffrey.com+2Engage+2McCaffrey Health+2

Dr. McCaffrey holds a Doctorate of Chiropractic and post-doctoral licenses in Digestive and Internal Health. He was among the first physicians in the U.S. to be certified as an Internal Health Specialist. McCaffrey Health+6McCaffrey Health+6McCaffrey Health+6

A passionate educator and speaker, Dr. McCaffrey has lectured at over 100 venues nationwide, including the National Arthritis Foundation and Logan University. He also hosts weekly health segments on local media, such as "Wellness Wednesday" on Fox 55 and "House Calls" on Sports Radio 1450. McCaffrey Health+1McCaffrey Health+1McCaffrey Health+2McCaffrey Health+2McCaffrey Health+2

At the retreat, Dr. McCaffrey will share insights into the body's stress responses and offer practical strategies for achieving balance and vitality through natural health practices.