Samantha Malinski

Samantha Malinski, Head of Operations for Moms Across America (MAA), is a visionary leader whose work in environmental health, education, and operational excellence drives transformative change. With a Bachelor’s in Interdisciplinary Studies (Humanities, minors in Anthropology and Sociology) from Northern Arizona University and NOFA Accreditation as an Organic Land Care Professional, Samantha brings a robust academic and practical foundation to her role. Her field research with the BVAR Archaeology Program in Belize and advocacy with the Grand Canyon Trust to protect Hopi water rights and sacred sites highlight her commitment to cultural and environmental preservation. As Executive Director of Red Rock Wild School in Sedona, she oversees a nature-based forest school that integrates outdoor exploration with academic learning, social-emotional development, and creativity, fostering independence and a deep connection to the natural world.

Samantha’s journey into environmental advocacy began as a mother of two, determined to create safer, toxin-free communities for her sons. This passion led her to found HEAL Verde Valley, through which she has partnered with three cities, multiple homeowners’ associations, and over 250 golf courses to eliminate glyphosate-based herbicides and adopt organic land management practices, achieving up to 80% water reduction. Her consulting work supports municipalities and businesses in sustainable practices, while her community workshops and public speaking—at venues like the Montessori Model United Nations (1,600 attendees), local Children’s Health Defense chapters, and podcasts—raise awareness about environmental toxins and inspire community activism.

Her nine-year collaboration with Zen Honeycutt, MAA’s founder, began in 2016 when Zen responded to Samantha’s plea for help after she and her children suddenly fell ill following exposure to the herbicides 2,4-D and glyphosate. Zen confirmed that she wasn’t crazy. The chemicals were making us sick. This ignited an unbreakable friendship and shared commitment to eliminating toxins, forging a lasting partnership. Samantha’s dedication to MAA, where she served as Project Manager and Researcher from 2017 to 2020, reflects its mission to remove harmful chemicals from food and environments. She coordinated volunteer operations, conducted product testing for toxins, and produced an educational documentary published on YouTube, thereby amplifying MAA’s impact. As Head of Operations, she leverages her strategic vision and operational expertise to advance MAA’s mission, ensuring efficient systems and impactful advocacy.

Samantha’s community contributions are profound. As a former Montessori Principal Educator, she developed the “Beyond Me Project” at Sedona Charter School, a 12-week initiative empowering middle school students to advocate for a community Recreation Center and engage in civic processes. As a Certified Montessori Model United Nations Teacher Coordinator, she supported 14 student delegates at the 2025 MMUN Conference in New York City, fostering global awareness. Her 26 years of cross-sector experience in education, IT, and consulting include saving over $1 million at Apollo Group through optimized hiring strategies, earning the Marvelous Merit Award, and setting benchmarks as a Senior Technical Recruiter at Robert Half Technology. Her consulting work continues to help small businesses build sustainable systems.