Summer Sides

About Summer Sides

I’ve always been the one asking questions — not to challenge, but to understand. To find the “why” behind the way things work. To see if there’s a better, kinder, more creative way to do it.That’s probably why I’ve never fit neatly into one box. My path has taken me through movement, teaching, writing, leadership, and creative development — all connected by one throughline: helping people feel something.I’ve spent most of my career building experiences that spark connection — the kind that makes someone feel seen, capable, or inspired to take one more step forward. Whether that happens in a studio, a classroom, or a creative project, it always starts with the same ingredients: curiosity that drives exploration, creativity that reimagines what’s possible, and courage that pushes ideas into action.What I’ve learned along the way is that leadership isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about being willing to ask the right questions, to try, to listen, and to show up with heart — even when it feels uncomfortable. Vulnerability, it turns out, is what creates trust.Those lessons have shaped how I lead, collaborate, and create. They show up in every conversation, every project, and every new idea I get to bring to life.I’m endlessly inspired by how people connect — through movement, through story, through shared moments that remind us we’re not alone. And I’m passionate about continuing to explore that intersection of creativity, community, and human experience — wherever it leads next.I lead with connection and curiosity.I create through storytelling and empathy.I adapt with courage and openness.And I build trust through vulnerability.

Experience

1. Coach Development & Experience Specialist

   Orangetheory Fitness

   Jun 2024 — Present

   Curiosity drives everything I build — the desire to understand how people learn, grow, and feel cared for in the process. My focus is on creating learning experiences that honor the member’s perspective first, transforming technical instruction into something felt, not just taught. Because when coaches connect through empathy and creativity, members don’t just train — they belong.

Education

• University of North Carolina at Greensboro

  Master of Science (MS), Sport & Exercise Psychology

  2011 — 2012

• University of North Carolina at Greensboro

  Bachelor of Science (BS), Kinesiology and Exercise Science

  2002 — 2007

• University of North Carolina at Greensboro

  Bachelor of Arts - BA, Dance Studies

  2002 — 2007

• Boston University

  Graduate Certificate in Commercial Theater Development, Theatre/Theater

Skills

• Fitness Training
• Fitness Consulting
• Aerobics
• Certified Group Exercise Instructor
• Personal Training
• Health & Fitness Writing
• Fitness Center
• Employee Wellness
• Fitness
• Certification Development
• Fitness Industry
• Fitness Instruction
• Cardiovascular Fitness
• Strength Training
• Wellness Coaching
• Employee Wellness Programs
• Overall Wellness
• Trx Suspension Training
• Trx Certified
• Indoor Cycling
• Yoga
• Pilates
• Cardio Kickboxing
• Step Aerobics
• Weight Loss Coaching
• Sports Conditioning
• Kettlebells
• Nutrition
• Nutrition Education
• Sports Nutrition
• Weight Training
• Health Promotion
• Wellness
• Kinesiology
• Fitness Modeling
• Cardio
• Weight Management
• Weight
• Athletic Training
• Health Education