Continuing Education

Edward Hertzman is a serial entrepreneur who has launched multiple businesses across several industry verticals including media, fitness, wellness and sourcing. He is also a subject matter expert who has become the voice for the industries he has served. An early-stage investor in promising startups, he has contributed to their growth and value creation.

His latest venture, Athletech News is a response to the fitness industry’s need for community, representation and a seat at the table. Much like sourcing more than a decade ago, fitness and wellness has been a fragmented, under-valued, and under-reported industry, with little transparency into the robust investments occurring in the space, or the dynamic leaders that drive these businesses. Athletech News answers to this need.

Prior to Hertzman’s latest venture, following several years on the ground as a supply chain executive, Hertzman founded Sourcing Journal in 2009. Today, Sourcing Journal is the world’s largest trade publication devoted to sourcing and supply chain in the apparel and textiles industry. In 2017, Hertzman sold the company to Penske Media Group. He remained on board as President for 5 years, during which time he was promoted to EVP of all Fairchild Media Titles, tasked with growing their portfolio of publications, while continuing to lead day-to-day operations at Sourcing Journal.

In 2023, Hertzman left Penske to launch his next media enterprise, Athletech Media Group. It has quickly become the media of record for the fitness and wellness industry with more than 100,000 subscribers signing on since its debut. 

Hertzman continues to consult for several retail and supply chain companies and through his company, Hertzman Global Ventures, he has made targeted investments in both PE funds and supply chain tech companies including Active Source Lab.

Hertzman is also a sought-after speaker, sharing his expertise at leading industry conferences and events. His innovative leadership has helped shape the way the industry approaches sustainability, commercial compliance, and global sourcing strategies.

Hertzman received a degree in economics from NYU and spent more than a decade working in top-level executive positions for major sourcing companies worldwide, including Synergies Worldwide and Pearl Global. He also sits on the Board for Delivering Good, a charitable organization that channels the resources of the fashion industry to those in need.

Sara Kooperman, JD, is the CEO of SCW Fitness Education, WATERinMOTION®, and S.E.A.T. Fitness. She has launched seven MANIA® fitness conventions, six streaming conferences, and 40+ certifications, impacting 400,000+ professionals. Under her leadership, SCW doubled profitability in 2024, expanded staffing by 30%, and earned the FIT-C Award for innovation.

Sara's company has produced 600+ training videos, offering unparalleled education and support. An Illinois Businesswoman of the Year and National Fitness Hall of Fame inductee, Sara’s visionary strategies continue to redefine the fitness industry, driving growth and success for professionals worldwide.

For over two decades, Jenna has helped people discover practical tools, personalized support, and sustainable strategies to achieve satisfaction in life and business.  As a Nationally Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach, she guides individuals through their unique wellness journeys with a holistic approach, free from judgment and quick fixes.

Drawing from her experience as a successful business owner, Jenna coaches fitness and wellness businesses—especially solopreneurs— to create sustainable models that honor their passion, fuel their success, and prevent burnout. As a consultant, she’s had the honor to work for organizations like the American Lung Association, creating programming to help people living with chronic conditions find access to wellbeing support that accounts for their personal needs. 

As a speaker, she is a renowned corporate presenter and two-time published author who has dedicated her career to inspiring hope in others that they can live well, despite limits™️.

Gini is the Director of Fitness Product for VASA Fitness. She is known for creating cutting-edge programming and introducing approachable, results-driven fitness concepts. She enjoys any opportunity to empower the next generation of fitness professionals and is passionate about furthering their education and expertise to provide opportunities for development and career advancement.

Gini earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise & Sport Science and a Master’s degree in Exercise Physiology, and was an accomplished Division I and professional basketball player.

Billy Hofacker has over 25 years of experience in the fitness industry and is the owner and CEO of Total Body Boot Camp and Performance Center, a successful fitness facility in the hyper-competitive Long Island, NY, market. As a seasoned business owner and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, Billy combines discipline and strategy to help fitness professionals succeed financially.

After overcoming his financial struggles, Billy became passionate about empowering fitness professionals to win with money. He is the author of Fitness Profits and the host of the Your Fitness Money Coach Podcast, ranked in the top 1.5% of all podcasts globally on Listen Notes.

Billy is also a Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) with Toastmasters International and a highly sought-after speaker, having presented for prestigious organizations like Perform Better and the Functional Aging Institute. With a proven track record of delivering actionable strategies and inspiring audiences, Billy is dedicated to helping gym owners achieve financial clarity, drive profitability, and achieve healthy growth.

Tim Mauk is a results-oriented marketing professional who started GymSplash as a free resource to help small- to medium-sized fitness facility owners thrive. GymSplash.com helps equip you with the knowledge and tools needed to elevate your fitness business.

We understand the unique challenges and opportunities gyms face and guide you with tried-and-true business and marketing principles.

Tim Mauk is a results-oriented marketing professional who started GymSplash as a free resource to help small- to medium-sized fitness facility owners thrive. GymSplash.com helps equip you with the knowledge and tools needed to elevate your fitness business.

We understand the unique challenges and opportunities gyms face and guide you with tried-and-true business and marketing principles.

Sean Greeley is the founder and CEO of NPE. He’s also a coach, family man, author, and speaker who helps fitness entrepreneurs build sustainable 7-figure businesses.

Since 2006, NPE has helped over 53,000+ fitness businesses in 96+ countries grow to the next level, and is responsible for driving over $1.1 billion in client revenue. NPE has been featured 8x on the Inc 500/5000 list of fastest growing companies, and has a global team based in the USA, Canada, UK, and Australia.

Ryan Obernesser is the CEO of O.B. Training Inc., Gym Profits LLC, and creator of the Take Back Your Life 6 Week Challenge™ program.  Over the last decade, Ryan and his wife Christina, have built O.B. Training into a specialty training facility that transforms the minds, bodies and lives of every adult and athlete that walks through their doors.

In that time, O.B. Training has grown into a profit machine.  Churning out multiple 6-figures in profits each year despite being located in Utica, NY - a city Forbes named the third-worst place for business and careers in the U.S. in 2015 with a median household income of less than $35,000.

Cosmo Wollan has more than 30 years’ experience in the Health, Fitness, Wellness, and Medical Fitness fields. He is Co-Founder and Executive Director of Parks & Rec RX Connect, a 501(c)(3) bringing medically directed fitness services and population health benefits to municipal fitness centers and the Parks & Rec Community.

He served six years as chair of the Medical Fitness Association Education Advisory Panel and is an active member of the MedFit Network Education Advisory Board. He is a frequent national conference speaker and webinar presenter, and a recognized SME in medical fitness integration, profit center development, revenue stream optimization, and retention strategies. 

Amanda is a wellness consultant and speaker whose expertise in fitness program and talent development transforms studios and instructors, helping them to gain and maintain loyal clients. Founder and CEO of Face the Change, she is also a licensed social worker, life coach, and mentor who leads a group fitness instructor training program for aspiring instructors in underserved communities of NYC.

Amanda has two decades of teaching multiple group fitness formats and was formally the Manager of Group Fitness Development for Equinox Fitness. Her expertise in developing instructors both in the studio and virtually has been sought after by companies such as Reebok and Women’s Health. Amanda’s media credits include IDEA Fitness Journal, Time, Greatist, Refinery29, Sparkpeople, Zlife, Daily News, NY1, Family Circle, Good Housekeeping, Marie Claire, and MSNBC.

As a person with a debilitating and progressive chronic illness and passion for social justice and inclusion, Amanda is known in the industry as the changemaker whose mission is to inspire others to create community and joy through authenticity.

Jane Bahneman, MS, is the owner of Nectar Yoga Studios outside of Washington DC. Jane has been teaching fitness and yoga and speaking nationally for over two decades. She has held leadership roles in prestigious fitness & wellness settings and is the President Jane Bahneman Consulting business coaching for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Jane served on the American Council on Exercise Industry Advisory Panel and sits on the Advisory Council for the Fitness Business Association. Her certifications include: ACSM Certified Exercise Physiologist; NASM Certified Personal Trainer and Corrective Exercise Specialist; ACE Certified Group Exercise Instructor; ACE Certified Health Coach, Yoga Alliance E-RYT 500 and Prenatal-RYT.

Roman was awarded Equinox Trainer of the Year in 2016, Equinox Educator of the Year in 2018, and Club of the Year.

Roman has been involved in fitness, health and wellness for over a decade. Has taught as lead instructor for PPSC, and was the director of a fitness tech company.

Roman is currently the co-founder of the tech startup TCM: The Coaching Market, where he is working to create a democratized e-learning platform for the fitness, health, and wellness industry, giving professionals the tools to publish and sell e-learning content on the marketplace.

My name is Michael Ricchio and I am the owner of MAR Health & Performance in Downers Grove, IL. My facility focuses on both adult exercise and lifestyle health, as well as youth to professional athletic performance.

I hold my Master's Degree in Exercise Physiology and have been coaching/training for 17 years. I am also the host of the Lifestyle as Medicine podcast and strength coach and position coach for Downers Grove North High School.

My speaking experience includes leading lectures for the Northwestern Hospital CEU events, content creator and speaker for LulaFit corporate wellness events, recorded segments for the NBC Chicago Today show, and Nexus Health virtual seminars. Prior to owning my own facility, I worked with Equinox Fitness as an educator, leading their continuing education program for new and promoted trainers. 

Tasha is a 20 year professional in the fitness industry and currently is the Head Strength and Conditioning Coach, Facility Manager, and Personal Trainer Mentor at PRO Sports Club near Seattle, WA where she has been awarded multiple times, Coach and Trainer of the year.

Additionally, she is a Master Instructor for the Pain-free Performance Certification Course where she leads and instructs on Program Design, Advanced Training Protocols, Movement Quality, Mastery and Strategy to keep people pain-free and progressing toward their goals. Tasha holds multiple degrees including Anthropology, Archaeology, Exercise Science, and Dance. Tasha also competes at an elite level in Powerlifting and Strongman. 

Ty Sevin, the current President of Keiser, brings over 25 years of coaching experience at the collegiate and Olympic levels. A four-time U.S. Olympic Trials qualifier in javelin, Ty has made significant contributions to the field of track and field.

He has served as the Director of the Track and Field Residency Program at the United States Olympic Committee's Training Center in Chula Vista, CA, and as an assistant coach for Team USA on three occasions.

Ty also held the position of Associate Head Coach for both the men’s and women’s track and field teams at the University of Texas at Austin. Additionally, he led the men’s and women’s track and cross-country teams at the University of New Orleans and McNeese State. Ty Sevin is recognized as one of the most influential track and field coaches in the country.

Christine is the CEO of FITFIXNOW, one of the leading online continuing education providers for fitness professionals and founder of ContiFit LLC. She is the recipient of the IDEA World 2023 Fitness Instructor of the Year, COO of Reinventing the Woman International, and the Co-Host of the Two Fit Crazies and a Microphone Podcast.

She is an international fitness educator, chronic disease wellness specialist, and the best-selling author of SPLIT-SECOND COURAGE. When she is not inspiring the world at speaking events, you will find Christine running marathons, competing in IRONMAN races, and guiding Special Olympic athletes. After receiving a life-changing diagnosis at age thirty, this former investment banker and English teacher believes that ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE!

She currently resides at the Jersey shore with her amazingly supportive husband, Michael, and two awesome children, Alex (17) and Lauren (12).

Dr. Erin Nitschke, NFPT-CPT, NSCA-CPT, ACE Health Coach, CPT, Fitness Nutrition Specialist, Therapeutic Exercise Specialist, Pn1, FNMS, and DSWI Master Health Coach, is a health and human performance college professor, industry writer for IDEA, NFPT, Fitness Education Online, and Youate.com, as well as a national presenter and ACE Scientific Advisory Panel member.

She is a seasoned health and exercise professional with a passion for empowering individuals to live their healthiest, most vibrant lives. Specializing in holistic health approaches, Erin takes a personalized and evidence-based approach to help clients achieve their wellness goals. Erin’s coaching philosophy emphasizes education, accountability, and sustainable behavior change, guiding clients to make lasting improvements in their nutrition, fitness, stress management, and overall well-being.

Dr. Justine Williams Roper, PT, DPT, is a women's health expert, fitness entrepreneur, and global speaker with a passion for helping professionals achieve peak performance through holistic wellness. She is the CEO of InHer Physique Pelvic Therapy, a boutique clinic specializing in pelvic health and trauma-informed care. With a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Howard University and a B.S. in Health Education from the University of Florida, Dr. Roper brings clinical expertise and real-world relatability to every engagement.

A certified run coach and marathoner, she equips fitness professionals and business leaders with tools to sustain long, impactful careers. Through her platform, doctorjus.com, she delivers inclusive, evidence-based wellness education designed to meet the demands of today’s fast-paced fitness industry. As a published author and dynamic speaker, Dr. Roper blends her personal health journey with professional insight to champion resilience, elevate women’s health, and foster lasting transformation in the fitness business space.

When Bob Esquerre announced his retirement from Consulting at the IHRSA 2010 Conference in San Diego, he said “I Am Done”! However, he kept training Clients as a Personal Trainer, teaching GroupEX Classes and Coaching both Small & Large Group Training Sessions until 2017. This should have been a hint that “He Was Not Done”! COVID Came! Our Industry was classified as Non-Essential! Now Bob-Is-Back…To Continue Where He Left….Making Our Industry Essential.

MEET BOB ESQUERRE, MA, NSCA-CPT, BSC

Bob’s career is unique because he came into the Fitness Industry, at the bottom-as an Aerobics Instructor, after 13 years of Management, Project Management & Operations Management Training in the business world. When he semi-retired, Bob was both nationally & internationally recognized as a Business Planning Consultant, a Fitness Director, an Operations Director, Educator, Author, Personal Trainer and Group Exercise Instructor. As the CEO of the Esquerre Fitness Group International, was an active participant in both the national & international lecture circuits as a sought after speaker in the following areas:

• Customer Recruitment, On-Boarding & Customer Retention
• Fitness Programming
• Personal & Small/Large Group Training
• Wellness & Health Programming (Active & In-Active Aging Customers)
• Community Outreach Programming
• Professional Development: Club/Studio Managers
• Professional Development: Fitness Professionals
• Professional Development: Club/Studio Managers/Owners

Kurt Mangum II is a dynamic leader committed to promoting generational health through innovation, education, and collaboration within the fitness industry. As Vice President of Partnerships at the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA), Kurt excels in strategic partnerships, revenue generation, and identifying growth opportunities that elevate industry standards.

Kurt's impressive background includes being a standout collegiate linebacker at the University of Akron, where he honed his leadership skills on and off the field. He holds a Master's Degree in Education, which fuels his passion for mentorship and professional development within the fitness community.

In addition to his role at ISSA, Kurt is the Co-Founder of CoupleyFit, a Benefit Corporation focused on enhancing health and wellness experiences for couples. His entrepreneurial spirit is complemented by accolades such as being recognized as a Walmart Black Health Hero and a two-time Phoenix Top 100 Titans of Industry. With a fervent dedication to business, mentorship, and sports, Kurt’s passion resonates throughout both his professional and personal life. 

Matt Boyer, MS, is a master instructor for the National Academy of Sports Medicine® (NASM). He is the owner of Move Bloomington, a fitness and athletic performance facility in Bloomington, Indiana and works as adjunct faculty at Indiana University.

Matt holds a master’s degree in exercise science and health promotion with an emphasis in rehabilitation sciences from PennWest and a license in massage therapy.

Licenses/Certifications: LMT, ACE-HC; ACSM-CPT; NASM-CPT, CES, PES

Sabrena Jo, PhD, senior director of science and education at the American Council on Exercise, has decades of experience helping people find ways to become physically active.

From working one-on-one with clients to leading group fitness classes to teaching and developing curricula at universities, Dr. Jo has always had a passion for supporting people as they start and maintain a physically active lifestyle. A graduate from the University of Kansas, Dr. Jo’s research interests include understanding how the motivational climate influences optimal experiences for participants in various exercise settings.

Cody Sipe, MS, PhD, DipACLM is an author, award-winning fitness professional, international educator, researcher, and active aging expert who has worked with older adults for over 30 years.  He is Full Professor in a University Doctoral Physical Therapy Program; CEO of Marbles Fitness (the first brain gym franchise for older adults); and co-founder of the Functional Aging Institute. 

His work has focused primarily on teaching evidence-based strategies to improve and maintain physical function in older adults.  Over the past 10 years, Dr. Sipe's interest has shifted towards optimizing brain health and cognitive fitness which led him to helping found Marbles Fitness in 2024.  He serves on numerous committees including the editorial board of the Journal on Physical Activity and Aging and as an ad-hoc reviewer for multiple journals.

Cody Sipe, MS, PhD, DipACLM is an author, award-winning fitness professional, international educator, researcher, and active aging expert who has worked with older adults for over 30 years.  He is Full Professor in a University Doctoral Physical Therapy Program; CEO of Marbles Fitness (the first brain gym franchise for older adults); and co-founder of the Functional Aging Institute. 

His work has focused primarily on teaching evidence-based strategies to improve and maintain physical function in older adults.  Over the past 10 years, Dr. Sipe's interest has shifted towards optimizing brain health and cognitive fitness which led him to helping found Marbles Fitness in 2024.  He serves on numerous committees including the editorial board of the Journal on Physical Activity and Aging and as an ad-hoc reviewer for multiple journals.

With a degree in Finance, passion for the mental health benefits of fitness and over two decades of entrepreneur expertise, Erica found her calling financially empowering gym owners so they can increase profits and better serve their members. Erica is a middle child, problem solver, and self-proclaimed numbers nerd.

Curiosity helps me stay, forever a student, sparking my zest for life.

I have B.S. in Exercise Science. I bring a holistic approach to my clients as a certified Health Coach and Yoga Teacher. As an entrepreneur I understand the power of a brand to enrich community.

Currently, I own and operate SWEAT Power Yoga and work for a global fitness company as the Head of TRX Yoga and am also part of TRX Faculty. I travel internationally to present, educate and empower individuals to move well, be well and live on purpose.

Matt Becker, Esq. is the founder of Gym Lawyers PLLC and co-founder of Gym Ventures LLC, where he helps gym owners protect, scale, and sell their businesses the right way. A former CrossFit affiliate owner himself, Matt has worked with hundreds of micro gym owners across the country—advising on everything from staffing and waivers to multi-entity asset protection and seven-figure exits. His mission? Help fitness entrepreneurs stop running their gym like a job and start running it like a business.

Matt Becker, Esq. is the founder of Gym Lawyers PLLC and co-founder of Gym Ventures LLC, where he helps gym owners protect, scale, and sell their businesses the right way. A former CrossFit affiliate owner himself, Matt has worked with hundreds of micro gym owners across the country—advising on everything from staffing and waivers to multi-entity asset protection and seven-figure exits. His mission? Help fitness entrepreneurs stop running their gym like a job and start running it like a business.

Matt Boyer, MS, is a master instructor for the National Academy of Sports Medicine® (NASM). He is the owner of Move Bloomington, a fitness and athletic performance facility in Bloomington, Indiana and works as adjunct faculty at Indiana University.

Matt holds a master’s degree in exercise science and health promotion with an emphasis in rehabilitation sciences from PennWest and a license in massage therapy.

Licenses/Certifications: LMT, ACE-HC; ACSM-CPT; NASM-CPT, CES, PES

Jonathan Mike, PhD, CSCS*D, NSCA-CPT*D, USAW-1, NKT-3 is a dynamic trailblazer in the realm of exercise science and sports performance. As a seasoned Sports Performance Coach, Jonathan has built a significant online presence across multiple platforms, and contributes to numerous fitness, strength, and consumer platforms nationwide. He has been involved with NSCA extending beyond membership. Jonathan's expertise is recognized on a global stage.

He has enlightened audiences with over 120 talks at dozens of prestigious events, including conferences held by NSCA, the International Society of Sports Nutrition (ISSN), the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), IDEA, and other eminent fitness organizations and international events. Jonathan has published dozens of peer-reviewed scientific publications, adding to the body of knowledge in sports nutrition and strength conditioning.

His literary contributions include authoring 13 influential book chapters, and has consulted with top-tier industry companies including product development and business ventures. Jonathan is a sought-after presenter nationally and internationally.

Tim Mauk is a results-oriented marketing professional who started GymSplash as a free resource to help small- to medium-sized fitness facility owners thrive. GymSplash.com helps equip you with the knowledge and tools needed to elevate your fitness business.

We understand the unique challenges and opportunities gyms face and guide you with tried-and-true business and marketing principles.

Dr. Erin Nitschke, NFPT-CPT, NSCA-CPT, ACE Health Coach, CPT, Fitness Nutrition Specialist, Therapeutic Exercise Specialist, Pn1, FNMS, and DSWI Master Health Coach, is a health and human performance college professor, industry writer for IDEA, NFPT, Fitness Education Online, and Youate.com, as well as a national presenter and ACE Scientific Advisory Panel member.

She is a seasoned health and exercise professional with a passion for empowering individuals to live their healthiest, most vibrant lives. Specializing in holistic health approaches, Erin takes a personalized and evidence-based approach to help clients achieve their wellness goals. Erin’s coaching philosophy emphasizes education, accountability, and sustainable behavior change, guiding clients to make lasting improvements in their nutrition, fitness, stress management, and overall well-being.

Billy Hofacker has over 25 years of experience in the fitness industry and is the owner and CEO of Total Body Boot Camp and Performance Center, a successful fitness facility in the hyper-competitive Long Island, NY, market. As a seasoned business owner and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, Billy combines discipline and strategy to help fitness professionals succeed financially.

After overcoming his financial struggles, Billy became passionate about empowering fitness professionals to win with money. He is the author of Fitness Profits and the host of the Your Fitness Money Coach Podcast, ranked in the top 1.5% of all podcasts globally on Listen Notes.

Billy is also a Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) with Toastmasters International and a highly sought-after speaker, having presented for prestigious organizations like Perform Better and the Functional Aging Institute. With a proven track record of delivering actionable strategies and inspiring audiences, Billy is dedicated to helping gym owners achieve financial clarity, drive profitability, and achieve healthy growth.

A seasoned entrepreneur and executive, Ann owns Shapes Fitness for Women where she dedicates herself to the success of her teams and members. An award-winning leader in the fitness industry, Ann promotes active longevity through innovative programs. She can be seen as part of the FOX 13 family in Tampa Bay and works with a multitude of events and organizations. With over three decades experience helping her communities thrive in their health, Ann is a sought-after speaker and inspirational leader.

Annette Lang has been in fitness-forever!  She worked in sales, management, education and personal training.  Annette was the Program Director for Equinox Fitness Training Institute, and Reebok University.

She presented at conferences including IHRSA, ACSM, Club Industry, Perform Better, FitPro, and others.  Annette has developed and taught at health clubs throughout the US and abroad, focusing lately on the "Integrated Stretching" and "Training the Pregnant and Postpartum Client" Specialty Certifications.  

She has authored several DVDs, the Pre Postnatal Training Fan and Morning Strength Workouts book.  Annette has a Masters Degree in Health Education, and is a certified Personal Trainer in New York City.    

Cosmo Wollan has more than 30 years’ experience in the Health, Fitness, Wellness, and Medical Fitness fields. He is Co-Founder and Executive Director of Parks & Rec RX Connect, a 501(c)(3) bringing medically directed fitness services and population health benefits to municipal fitness centers and the Parks & Rec Community.

He served six years as chair of the Medical Fitness Association Education Advisory Panel and is an active member of the MedFit Network Education Advisory Board. He is a frequent national conference speaker and webinar presenter, and a recognized SME in medical fitness integration, profit center development, revenue stream optimization, and retention strategies. 

Dan is the owner of Kutting Edge Fitness in Kirkland, Washington and Kinetic Fitness in Butte, Montana – two start-up training gyms. He has worked in the health and fitness field for 15 years and holds a B.S. in Applied Health Science from Montana Tech University, where he was also a collegiate athlete.

Dan is a Certified Exercise Physiologist through the American College of Sports Medicine and a level 2 Titleist Performance Institute Golf Fitness Professional. He has been mentored by some of the top golf fitness and fitness business professionals in the country including Thomas Plummer, Rick Mayo, Frank Nash and Jason Glass. He now mentors several start-up gym owners himself.  Dan is a well-respected speaker in the greater Northwest and is considered an expert on the business of start-up gyms, improving strength/power for golf and other rotational sports, and small group training. 

Annette Lang has been in fitness-forever!  She worked in sales, management, education and personal training.  Annette was the Program Director for Equinox Fitness Training Institute, and Reebok University.

She presented at conferences including IHRSA, ACSM, Club Industry, Perform Better, FitPro, and others.  Annette has developed and taught at health clubs throughout the US and abroad, focusing lately on the "Integrated Stretching" and "Training the Pregnant and Postpartum Client" Specialty Certifications.  

She has authored several DVDs, the Pre Postnatal Training Fan and Morning Strength Workouts book.  Annette has a Masters Degree in Health Education, and is a certified Personal Trainer in New York City.    

Cosmo Wollan has more than 30 years’ experience in the Health, Fitness, Wellness, and Medical Fitness fields. He is Co-Founder and Executive Director of Parks & Rec RX Connect, a 501(c)(3) bringing medically directed fitness services and population health benefits to municipal fitness centers and the Parks & Rec Community.

He served six years as chair of the Medical Fitness Association Education Advisory Panel and is an active member of the MedFit Network Education Advisory Board. He is a frequent national conference speaker and webinar presenter, and a recognized SME in medical fitness integration, profit center development, revenue stream optimization, and retention strategies. 

Heather Yancey is a positive-minded fitness professional, speaker, and coach dedicated to empowering women—especially those navigating midlife—to embrace strength, vitality, and confidence. With a personal journey that includes overcoming autoimmune challenges and the transformative power of strength training, Heather has become a beacon for women seeking to redefine aging.

She is the creator of The Badass Reset Method, a 12-week program focusing on fitness, nutrition, and mindset, and the founder of the Menopause Strength Society, an online community supporting women through menopause. Heather hosts The Badass Reset Club podcast, where she shares insights on health, fitness, and aging with resilience. Her speaking engagements, including virtual sessions for Burnalong and appearances at events like the Speaker's Showcase and The NW Events Show, reflect her commitment to inspiring women to live boldly and age like a badass. 

Elizabeth is a Master Certified Life and Health Coach with over 18 years of experience empowering women in midlife to prioritize their health and live with vitality. Specializing in holistic wellness, she blends her personal journey and extensive certifications—including Life Coaching, Feminist Coaching, Women's Hormonal Health, and Personal Training—to help women build sustainable habits for lasting change. Recognized as a top voice in women’s health, Elizabeth speaks regularly on podcasts, stages, and webinars, inspiring midlife women to thrive physically, emotionally, and mentally.

A seasoned entrepreneur and executive, Ann owns Shapes Fitness for Women where she dedicates herself to the success of her teams and members. An award-winning leader in the fitness industry, Ann promotes active longevity through innovative programs. She can be seen as part of the FOX 13 family in Tampa Bay and works with a multitude of events and organizations. With over three decades experience helping her communities thrive in their health, Ann is a sought-after speaker and inspirational leader.

Andy Peat is a visionary with a rich background in product innovation, operational management, business expansion, and over 10 years of leadership experience in the fitness industry. He spent a couple of years refining his strategic and management skills as the Chief Product Officer at Lift Brands, before pivoting to expand upon his leadership skills and passion for fitness as the CEO of Fitness On Demand.

With a degree in Finance, passion for the mental health benefits of fitness and over two decades of entrepreneur expertise, Erica found her calling financially empowering gym owners so they can increase profits and better serve their members. Erica is a middle child, problem solver, and self-proclaimed numbers nerd.

Dr. Dan Ritchie started his fitness career at Southeast Missouri State University with a bachelor’s degree in Fitness and Sports Medicine and then spent a year as a graduate assistant coaching Division 1 athletes. He completed his master’s degree in Health & Physical Education at the University of Wisconsin- Whitewater, where he won the 2002 Thesis of the Year. Then Dan continued as a Lynn Fellow at Purdue University, completing his PhD in Kinesiology with a minor in Gerontology.

Since 2007 Dan has owned and operated Miracles Fitness in West Lafayette, Indiana, where he and his staff have trained over 2000 clients. With over 20 years of experience, he has extensive knowledge on training the mature adult market and has equipped people in their 50s, 60s, 70s, and beyond to achieve their goals and enhance their functional longevity. Dan was the 2014 PFP Trainer of the Year, and then shortly after he and Dr. Cody Sipe co-founded the FUNCTIONAL AGING Institute.

Dan is a sought-after expert and speaker at national and international events on topics like balance for older adults, personal training business development, the global aging phenomenon, and FUNCTIONAL AGING training models. He’s routinely interviewed for podcasts, webinars, and on-online education summits. Dan lives in West Lafayette with his wife and five kids.

Jessica is a highly regarded fitness business consultant and strategist with a global footprint. She has shared her expertise internationally, presenting and consulting for numerous brands. Her unwavering passion lies in empowering fitness professionals and businesses to reach their fullest potential through a multifaceted approach that includes education, program and instructor development, and the creation and promotion of brand awareness.

Jessica's contributions to the fitness industry have been far-reaching. She has conducted certifications and workshops on an international stage, including prominent events such as IDEA World, SCW Mania, canfitpro, AsiaFit, FitnessFest, and more. Furthermore, she continues to offer her valuable consulting services to locally owned businesses and fitness professionals, impacting the industry's growth and development.

After graduating from California State University, Long Beach, with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, Tyler Valencia turned an internship with the National Exercise & Sports Trainers Association (NESTA) into a full-time role.

At NESTA, he excelled in various positions, honed his skills in online instructional design, and accepted an executive role with the National Council for Certified Personal Trainers (NCCPT) & Smart Fitness. Later, Tyler founded the Kinesiology Institute for Performance Specialists (KIPS), which has been offering online and live education for health and fitness professionals since 2016.

In 2020, Tyler decided to relaunch his first-ever entrepreneurial quest and relaunched Time 2 Train Fitness, an online platform for YouTube workouts aimed at those exercising at home. Tyler holds a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in Kinesiology and is pursuing a doctorate in Health and Human Performance.

Cody Sipe, MS, PhD, DipACLM is an author, award-winning fitness professional, international educator, researcher, and active aging expert who has worked with older adults for over 30 years.  He is Full Professor in a University Doctoral Physical Therapy Program; CEO of Marbles Fitness (the first brain gym franchise for older adults); and co-founder of the Functional Aging Institute. 

His work has focused primarily on teaching evidence-based strategies to improve and maintain physical function in older adults.  Over the past 10 years, Dr. Sipe's interest has shifted towards optimizing brain health and cognitive fitness which led him to helping found Marbles Fitness in 2024.  He serves on numerous committees including the editorial board of the Journal on Physical Activity and Aging and as an ad-hoc reviewer for multiple journals.

Kory Angelin is an award-winning fitness business executive and coach and CEO of the POWR SALES APP. He is a two-time published author who is amongst the leaders in fitness influencing in the country.

Kory has helped many large fitness enterprises all over the globe build reliable brands and craft unique customer experiences.

Gini is the Director of Fitness Product for VASA Fitness. She is known for creating cutting-edge programming and introducing approachable, results-driven fitness concepts. She enjoys any opportunity to empower the next generation of fitness professionals and is passionate about furthering their education and expertise to provide opportunities for development and career advancement.

Gini earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise & Sport Science and a Master’s degree in Exercise Physiology, and was an accomplished Division I and professional basketball player.

Logan Dube is currently the Director of Education for the Pain-Free Performance Specialist Certification. In this role they teach live & online certifications, build content and run the various tracks of the Mentorship program.

After 20 years playing soccer, including scholarship & international opportunities, Logan found a second career in the fitness industry, spending the last 2 decades in roles including personal trainer, fitness class instructor, studio owner/operator, club manager, multi-unit manager, educator and presenter.

Jessica is a highly regarded fitness business consultant and strategist with a global footprint. She has shared her expertise internationally, presenting and consulting for numerous brands. Her unwavering passion lies in empowering fitness professionals and businesses to reach their fullest potential through a multifaceted approach that includes education, program and instructor development, and the creation and promotion of brand awareness.

Jessica's contributions to the fitness industry have been far-reaching. She has conducted certifications and workshops on an international stage, including prominent events such as IDEA World, SCW Mania, canfitpro, AsiaFit, FitnessFest, and more. Furthermore, she continues to offer her valuable consulting services to locally owned businesses and fitness professionals, impacting the industry's growth and development.

Ryan Obernesser is the CEO of O.B. Training Inc., Gym Profits LLC, and creator of the Take Back Your Life 6 Week Challenge™ program.  Over the last decade, Ryan and his wife Christina, have built O.B. Training into a specialty training facility that transforms the minds, bodies and lives of every adult and athlete that walks through their doors.

In that time, O.B. Training has grown into a profit machine.  Churning out multiple 6-figures in profits each year despite being located in Utica, NY - a city Forbes named the third-worst place for business and careers in the U.S. in 2015 with a median household income of less than $35,000.

Brittany Todd is the Owner and Founder of Fluorescent Fitness, where she works to provide customized fitness and wellness trainings and solutions for organizations and fitness professionals. Brittany also works full time as the Association Director of Healthy Living for the YMCA of South Florida.

Brittany is an accomplished presenter, a published author of two fitness books, research studies, accredited fitness educational programs, and fitness editorial content.

Ken Countess is an internationally recognized, accredited expert on Email Marketing and other marketing topics. He’s an award‐winning marketer and business coach, and has been Constant Contact’s Top Worldwide Trainer/Partner since 2018.

Over his career, Ken launched many successful multimillion-dollar products and services for 4 Fortune 100 companies. Known for making complex topics easy to understand, Ken is a regular speaker and presenter at conventions and associations/trade shows.  They’re not “cookie-cutter” presentations - he customizes his presentations for each meeting.

Audiences love his delivery of material because they can relate to the content. He has helped over 10,000 businesses learn best practices in digital marketing. One of his clients grew her sales more than 10-fold in under 1 year with what he taught her about email marketing.

He is host of the Everything Email podcast and a frequent presenter for Chambers of Commerce, SCORE, Small Business Development Centers, trade associations, and many other organizations.

His company, Ken IS Email, is the marketing arm of The Countess Group, a company now in its 23rd year. “Ken Is Email” is exactly who your members need to help you 10X your sales!

Gini is the Director of Fitness Product for VASA Fitness. She is known for creating cutting-edge programming and introducing approachable, results-driven fitness concepts. She enjoys any opportunity to empower the next generation of fitness professionals and is passionate about furthering their education and expertise to provide opportunities for development and career advancement.

Gini earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise & Sport Science and a Master’s degree in Exercise Physiology, and was an accomplished Division I and professional basketball player.

Mikayla's transition from a professional dancer to a performance coach at Exos reflects her dedication to understanding movement and human performance. Her dance background led her to study Exercise and Wellness at Arizona State University, equipping her with a solid foundation in fitness and nutrition.

Her journey with Exos began as a Fitness Specialist intern, where she quickly demonstrated her skill in coaching a diverse range of clients, from professional athletes to corporate executives. Recently, she has focused on training female performers, aligning their fitness regimes with their physiological needs.

In addition to her work at Exos, Mikayla is a Registered Yoga Teacher and boxing instructor. Her approach to fitness is comprehensive, emphasizing the importance of enjoyment in the process of improving performance. This blend of academic knowledge and practical experience positions Mikayla as a dynamic coach in the field of fitness and wellness.

Robert Linkul is the owner of TOA (TrainingTheOlderAdult.com) a personal training studio and online continued education provider for fitness professionals in Shingle Springs, California.

Robert is an internationally known continued education provider for fitness professionals with his area of expertise being in resistance training strategies for the Older Adult with physical limitations and/or decreased quality of life.

Linkul has his master’s degree in personal training, is the NSCAs 2012 Personal Trainer of the Year award winner, a 2017 NSCA Fellowship inductee and was voted on to the 2021 NSCA Board of Directors (Personal Trainer Position).

Lauren Korzan is the Southeast Regional Program Manager for Aquila, overseeing a large multi-site fitness program in Atlanta, as well as providing remote management and support for additional fitness programs in the Southeast region.

With over 20 years of fitness management experience, she is responsible for all aspects of fitness center operations, staff development, and fitness and wellness programming.

Lauren is the chair of ACSM’s Committee on Certification and Registry Boards and serves on a variety of ACSM committees, including the International Health and Fitness Summit Planning Committee and the Strategic Planning Committee. In her free time, she enjoys reading, teaching group fitness classes, and spending time with her husband and daughter.

Curiosity helps me stay, forever a student, sparking my zest for life.

I have B.S. in Exercise Science. I bring a holistic approach to my clients as a certified Health Coach and Yoga Teacher. As an entrepreneur I understand the power of a brand to enrich community.

Currently, I own and operate SWEAT Power Yoga and work for a global fitness company as the Head of TRX Yoga and am also part of TRX Faculty. I travel internationally to present, educate and empower individuals to move well, be well and live on purpose.

Sean Greeley is the founder and CEO of NPE. He’s also a coach, family man, author, and speaker who helps fitness entrepreneurs build sustainable 7-figure businesses.

Since 2006, NPE has helped over 53,000+ fitness businesses in 96+ countries grow to the next level, and is responsible for driving over $1.1 billion in client revenue. NPE has been featured 8x on the Inc 500/5000 list of fastest growing companies, and has a global team based in the USA, Canada, UK, and Australia.

Josh Leve is the founder and CEO of the Fitness Business Association (FBA) and SUCCEED!  With over 60 industry partnerships including all major certifying organizations, Josh and the FBA has been featured in all major fitness publications.

In addition, Josh has been a featured speaker for all major fitness events such as IHRSA, Athletic Business, Club Industry, NSCA, NASM Optima, EMPOWER!, ZUMBA, and others. He holds a bachelor's degree in strategic communications from the University of Kansas.