Wild Women Weekend
About us
The concept of Wild Women dates back to our ancestors and has been practiced by many cultures throughout the world. The primary focus is to help women find their own inner strength, or their inner warrior spirit, and to learn to listen to their inner voice of wisdom.
Wild Women Weekend (WWW) was initially started in 2013 as a week-long casual camping event hosted by Lee Howard. In 2022, Lee decided to change it into a focused 4-day event for women full of workshops, entertainment and community. Like her previous event, the festival is held at Gaea Retreat Center in McLouth, KS. The festival is designed to provide a safe space for women.
The goal of our organization is to create an open, loving environment for all women. We embrace a diverse and inclusive environment where women can come together to make new connections and rekindle past friendships. Our vision holds space for you to grow, build a true sisterhood, and share love, trust, and empathy for each other. As we learn to care for ourselves, we also reenergize the spirit of the land that has served so many in our community so well.
We celebrate our womanhood, our warrior spirits, and our inner knowledge through workshops, rituals, drumming, dancing, and songs, as we affirm our empowerment of ourselves and each other. We believe that women will leave the festival with new ideas, new friends, and a community of women they know they have in their corner. Providing a safe, non-judgmental gathering for women 21 and older to have fun and relax. A space to express yourself in nature and enjoy the cultural and healing energy of Gaea. A time where we can support each other, express ideas, and learn from each other.
Empowering all women to realize their potential and recognize their true worth.
Meet the Team
Board of Directors
President & Founder
Lee Howard
I believe in living a life that’s as vibrant and multifaceted as the crystals I work with today. My journey has been anything but ordinary, taking me from the front lines as a Fire Captain for 20 years to the thrill of storm chasing for local news and even investigating the paranormal with a ghost-hunting team. Along the way, I’ve found joy in everything from training professional show horses in KC and New York to driving horse-drawn carriages on the KC Plaza.
Today, I’ve traded those adventures for the creative, grounded world of wire-wrap jewelry and stone curation. Yet, my greatest pride remains my family—two beautiful daughters, six grandchildren, and a growing family tree that continues to bring me so much joy.
My true passion, however, lies in community. About 15 years ago, I started Wild Women Weekend, which evolved into a full-scale festival in 2022. I envisioned a space that was deeply female-centered and empowering—a place where women could come to feel whole, vibrant, and truly known. My hope is that every woman who attends leaves standing firmly in her power, carrying the support of our sisterhood out into the world with her.
CFO
Jan Sunday
After a rewarding 26-year career in corporate management where I worked with everyone from simple start-ups and small businesses to national associations and the federal government, I decided it was time for a new chapter. Throughout my career, I had the privilege of managing unique challenges—from coordinating White House visits and supporting FEMA response efforts including the Oklahoma City bombing to collaborating with IT teams to design and implement new software for GSA contracts. I even had the honor of serving on a national telemedicine association’s board of directors along the way, but my heart has always been drawn to community and connection.
My journey with Camp Gaea started at the very beginning, and it’s been a staple in my life ever since. With the exception of just two years, I haven't missed attending at least one festival a year! Whether I was coordinating outreach in Texas or diving into festival operations back home in Kansas City, I've always loved being part of the magic here. In 2023, I discovered Wild Women Weekend (WWW). After hearing Lee share her incredible vision, I knew I had to be a part of it. Joining the staff has been such a joy, and it’s even become a family affair—my granddaughter has already attended three years and is now bringing her friends along!
When I’m not busy with WWW, you can usually find me getting creative with weaving, crocheting, or hand-building pottery. I’m an avid reader of fantasy and fiction, and I truly love writing about the things that inspire me. I can't wait to share more of that passion with all of you!
Secretary
Kris Smith
I’ve always believed that life is most beautiful when it’s balanced. I strive to find my balance in caring for others, nurturing myself, and embracing adventure every day. For over 25 years, my professional life has been dedicated to nursing, with the last 15 years focused on the tiny, resilient lives of children in pediatrics. It’s a calling that has taught me patience, compassion, and the profound importance of holistic healing.
Yet, my journey extends far beyond the clinical world. I am a proud mother of five and a grandmother of two, roles that continue to be my greatest teachers in love and growth. When I’m not caring for patients or family, you’ll likely find me diving into a good book, finding peace in painting, or getting my hands busy with baking, sewing, or hiking through nature.
I’m also deeply passionate about movement and wellness. As a CYT-200 yoga instructor (who recently added the unique energy of sword yoga to my classes), a certified Group Fitness trainer, and a NASM Certified Wellness Coach, I strive to help others find strength in both body and spirit. My path led me to Wild Women Weekend as an attendee in 2023, and I was so moved by the energy and connection I found there that I knew I had to be a part of the team. Joining the staff in 2026 has been a full-circle moment, and I am honored to help cultivate the same space of sisterhood and empowerment that first captured my heart .
Empowered Together