Presenters
Leading the way, no matter your direction.


Abbie Appel
Abbie Appel is a recreational therapist and the owner of AbbieFit Consulting. As a fitness education specialist, she collaborates with organizations including YMCA, Crunch, and Equinox. She is an author and program developer who created the SCW Pilates, SCW Barre Education Certification, and the new SCW Stretching & Flexibility Certification. She also contributed to the ACSM Group Exercise Manual and Schwinn Indoor Cycling Certification Manual. Abbie is an acclaimed presenter for ACSM, IDEA, IHRSA and SCW, among others. She delivers fitness education for world-class brands including Nautilus, Schwinn and TRX. Abbie was awarded SCW Fitness Presenter of the Year.
Dave Appel
Dave Appel, Chief Health and Fitness Officer at KORB Health Group, holds a degree in Kinesiology and Physical Education and has over 30 years in the fitness industry. For 12 years, he has successfully owned a fitness facility, focusing on wellness strategy, business growth, and community building. Dave’s mission is to empower individuals to achieve optimal health through integrated fitness, nutrition, and advanced medical therapies, all aligned with KORB’s core values.
Evans Armantrading, Jr.
Evans Armantrading Jr., CEO of CNU Stretch and founder of CNU Fit, is a fitness industry leader helping gym owners increase revenue and client loyalty through stretch therapy programs. CNU Fit’s, leading transformation studio, generates over $1 million in annual revenue and has helped thousands achieve their fitness goals. A U.S. Air Force veteran and Executive Board Member of the Central Delaware Chamber, Evans launched CNU Stretch in 2024, transforming 20+ gyms with impactful, scalable solutions.
Gail Bannister-Munn
Gail Bannister-Munn is the Flexibility Specialist and Core, Yoga, and Pilates Coach for the New York Jets. She owns The Bannister Method Studio in West Babylon, NY, and serves as Regional Group Ex Manager for six Crunch Fitness locations in New York City. Gail consults for professional athletes in the NBA, NFL, NHL, and MLB and teaches nationally. She holds multiple certifications, including NASM, AFAA, FST L3, Thai Massage, and YogaFit 500+ hours, and is a NASM and AFAA Continuing Education Provider.
Veronika Batyan
Veronica, a Fitness Idol winner, is a passionate fitness coach, award-winning dance instructor, and visionary entrepreneur with over 23 years in wellness. She designs innovative, high-performance fitness and dance programs that inspire clients to achieve their boldest goals. Veronica has spoken at conventions, embassies, and events across the U.S. and internationally. Her mission is to empower individuals to elevate their wellness in comprehensive and inclusive ways.
Jenna Bostic
Jenna Bostic is an international Zumba® Education Specialist for Zumba® Fitness. She has been presenting for Zumba® since 2008 and teaches instructor trainings for Zumba® Basic 1, Zumba® Basic 2, Zumba® Step, Zumba® Toning, and Aqua Zumba®. Jenna was the featured ZES for the one-on-one choreography on the ZIN #35 DVD and appeared on ZIN TV for both Aqua Zumba® and Zumba® Toning. She holds a degree in Exercise and Sport Science, along with ACE, AFAA, and AEA certifications in group fitness, personal training, and aqua fitness.
Beatriz Busch
Beatriz Busch loves teaching Zumba® classes and can't resist dancing whenever she hears music. Coming from Latin America, she naturally embodies the spirit of a ""Bailadora"" (dancer). She also studied Flamenco for two years in her home country and two more years in Chapel Hill, NC. Today, as a Zumba® Education Specialist, she is excited to meet and share her passion with you.
Mac Carvalho
Mac Carvalho is a distinguished Fitness Professional in New Bedford, MA, specializing in innovative fitness training. As a Master Trainer for WATERinMOTION and The SOUL Fitness Brands, he excels in delivering dynamic workouts. Additionally, Mac contributes to the HIGH Fitness Live On Demand Program as an on-demand instructor, offering engaging and high-energy fitness experiences.
Siri Chilazi, MBA, MA
Siri is the IDEA Emerging Trailblazer of the Year 2023 and a 15+-year veteran of the fitness
industry. She is a Master Trainer for several programs and she teaches formats ranging from
Pilates and Barre to Step and HIIT. As an educator, Siri is passionate about training instructors
and regularly presents at industry-leading conferences. Besides her fitness career, Siri has a
second career as an academic researcher working at Harvard on behavioral science and
gender equality in organizations.
Brandi Clark
Brandi Clark is a marketing and sales coach who mentors fitness professionals in building financially successful businesses. With over 25 years in the fitness industry, she understands its rapid changes and helps others adapt to stay ahead. Her specialty is teaching how to create content that connects with their audience, enabling them to build six-figure training businesses and impact more lives while increasing their income.
Christine Conti, MEd
Christine Conti, CEO of FITFIXNOW, leads a top online continuing education platform for busy fitness professionals. She was the 2023 IDEA World Fitness Instructor of the Year, co-founded the Reinventing the Woman International Group, and guided the first woman with autism to complete the Ironman World Championship. Christine is also a podcast host, best-selling author, international fitness educator, keynote speaker, and chronic disease advocate.
Megan Cooperman, MEd, MS
Megan is a seasoned fitness professional with over 25 years of experience, ranging from instructor to group fitness manager, wellness director, employee wellness specialist, and master trainer. She holds certifications in group fitness and personal training from ACE, AFAA, and AEA. Megan also has master's degrees in industrial-organizational psychology and counseling, bringing a comprehensive understanding of both fitness and mental well-being to her roles in the industry. Her diverse expertise makes her a leader in promoting holistic wellness.
George Corso
George Corso, CSCS, NSCA-CPT, is a personal trainer and owner of FORZA studio in NY. Over the past 24 years, he has been at the forefront of the evolution of the fitness industry teaching people to “move more human” to gain strength. Holding numerous certifications, he is an Animal Flow Regional Leader, a Russian Kettlebell Challenge (RKC) Trainer, a StickMobility Coach, Bodybell Coach Level 3 and a TRX Certified Coach.
Joshua Craddock
Joshua Craddock holds dual degrees in Exercise Science and Sport Studies and has 23 years of experience in the health, fitness, and wellness industry. He is a skilled yoga, qigong, and meditation teacher, as well as a strength and conditioning coach for young athletes. Joshua's diverse background includes roles as a personal trainer, group exercise instructor, martial arts and boxing teacher, running coach, facility manager, and fitness educator.
Charlyn Huss d’Anconia, MA, NCPT
Charlyn Huss d'Anconia, MA, holds a degree in Psychology and a Master's degree in Theatre & Film. She is a certified Pilates Teacher (NCPT) and a Certified Practitioner of Natural Health (CPNH). In 2007, she founded Playhouse Pilates, where she creatively merges her extensive training in Body Smart Programs, including Pilates Mat & Machine, CoreAlign, TRX, and Yamuna Body Rolling. Charlyn most recently created the exciting new CoreSpring® equipment and method, offering a unique union of Pilates Spring Apparatus work independently powered on the mat and beyond.
Erica Day
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.
Sohailla Digsby, RDN, LD
Sohailla is a registered dietitian, author, international speaker, and faculty in the Nutrition graduate program at Augusta State University. She has been a group exercise instructor since she was a teenager. Sohailla partners with fitness pros to help them launch 8-week challenges so their clients get the results that workouts alone won’t deliver. Sohailla is a voice of reason – bringing clarity amidst the nutrition fads and myths that abound in the fitness space. She and her husband have 3 kids, and live in Evans, Georgia.
Danielle Dorsey, MS
DANIELLE DORSEY, MS
Danielle Dorsey, MS, is a seasoned fitness and wellness professional with over 15 years of experience, helping more than 1,000 women achieve their health and fitness goals. With a degree in Kinesiology and a Master’s in Recreation Administration, Danielle has excelled in teaching various group exercise formats, managing collegiate and nonprofit fitness programs, operating a successful Bridal Bootcamp and online fitness system, and serving as an adjunct professor for fitness and wellness courses. Her extensive certifications include NASM Certified Nutrition Coach, NASM Personal Trainer, and AFAA Group Exercise, equipping her to guide clients toward lasting success.
Deanna Dovel
Deanna is a passionate entrepreneur in the health and wellness industry and a lover of dance fitness. She embraces the LaBlast philosophy, which connects body, mind, and soul through movement. Inspired by her enthusiasm for the program, Deanna became an AFAA-certified Master Trainer. As the owner of Discovering Wellness with Deanna, LLC, she empowers others to achieve wellness and personal growth through dance fitness.
Eric Durak, MSc
Eric Durak, MSc, is a leading clinical Exercise Physiologist and Health Educator with over 25 years of experience in health promotion. He has pioneered groundbreaking work in diabetes care, cancer wellness, injury prevention, and GLP-1. A sought-after speaker, Eric has presented at 195 national and international conferences and authored 24 books on healthcare and fitness. He is the founder of MedHealthFit and currently serves as a Wellness Specialist at the University of California, focusing on advancing wellness through research and innovation.
Bob Esquerre, MA, NSCA-CPT
Bob is a distinguished professional with over 13 years in Corporate America, excelling in Project and Operations Management. With a wealth of 38+ years in the Health & Fitness Sector, he serves as a renowned Trainer of Trainers, Instructor of Instructors, and Business Coach. Bob's expertise spans GroupEX, Personal Training, and Fitness Direction. As a global lecturer, he guides Club/Studio Owners and Managers, offering insights on achieving financial success while delivering 5-Star Experiences. Bob's impactful career includes roles as Corporate Fitness Director for prestigious establishments like Equinox Fitness Clubs and Genesis Health Clubs.
Tom Ford
Tom holds a degree in Exercise Science along with 16 years of experience as a Certified Athletic Trainer. He is a favorite adjunct professor teaching athletic training with over 30 year’s experience in aquatics. Tom has provided personal training, team coaching, and classroom education in the fields of sports medicine, fitness, and aquatics.
Herson Garcia
Herson Garcia is a Level 3 NeuroKinetic Practitioner and ACE Certified Personal Trainer specializing in sports performance and movement correction. As the owner of Truth Health and Performance and co-founder of the Garcia Institute of Modern Excellence and Wholota Wellness, he creates science-based programs for competitive athletes. Herson works with individuals ages 3 to 83, focusing on injury prevention and enhancing athletic performance.
Ann Gilbert
Ann Gilbert is the esteemed owner of FIT-HER Health & Fitness for Women, leading over 50 Personal Trainers and Group Fitness Professionals. Renowned for her expertise in exercise and aging, she coordinates successful programs for adults aged 48-78. An ACE/IHRSA Personal Trainer of the Year and a sought-after speaker, Ann is also an industry leader and education expert, developing and teaching SCW Certifications including Active Aging, Aquatic Exercise, Group Fitness, WATERinMOTION®, and S.E.A.T. (Supported Exercise for Ageless Training).
Lisa Greenbaum, E-RYT 500, C-IAYT
Lisa is the founder of Sangha Yoga Collective, a certified Trauma-Informed Yoga Therapist, E-RYT 500 Yoga Teacher, international presenter, and author. With over 20 years in the Fitness and Wellness industry, she has been recognized for her contributions, including multiple awards like Presenter of the Year. As a Global Ambassador for the Women in Fitness Association (WIFA) and a Top 100 Health and Fitness Influencer in Canada (2017-2021), Lisa is dedicated to fostering authentic, inspirational experiences.
Joseph Han, CSM, PMP
Joseph Han, CSM, PMP, brings more than two decades of experience in MedTech and digital health, focusing on body composition analysis. Currently Director of New Business Development at TANITA and formerly at InBody, Joseph is a leader in precision measurement technologies. He is dedicated to educating professionals on the evolving trends and applications of body composition in fitness and healthcare.
Chris Henry
Chris was the Fitness and Wellness Director, Regional Group Exercise Manager and finally the General Manager at the ACAC Fitness and Wellness Centers. With almost 20 years in the industry, Chris received ACAC’s Lifetime Achievement Award, Leadership Person of the Year, and Service Provider of the Year awards. He is a WATERinMOTION® Champion and Master Trainer, known for his leadership skills and creativity. holds certifications from AEA, AFAA, ACE, and Les Mills.
Sara Kooperman, JD
Sara Kooperman, JD, CEO of SCW Fitness Education, WATERinMOTION®, and S.E.A.T. Fitness , Founder of the MANIA® Convention, sits on the canfitpro Advisory Panel and the Gold’s Gym Think Tank and was a founding board member for the Women In Fitness Association (WIFA). Recently nominated for the IDEA Fitness Leader of the Year Award, Kooperman won the Most Innovating Fitness Pro by FIT-C (Fitness Industry Technology Council). Sara is the best-selling author of FIT FOR BUSINESS, an inductee into the National Fitness Hall of Fame, an Illinois State Businesswoman of the Year, esteemed panelist for multiple Webinars & Podcasts, and sits on the ACSM Communication & Public Information Committee.
Cheri Kulp
Cheri Kulp is a certified fitness professional with over 35 years of experience, specializing in step, weight training, cycling, and aqua fitness. As a personal trainer for 25 years, she excels in both land and aquatic environments. Currently, Cheri is the choreographer for all three WATERinMOTION® programs and a Master Trainer. A past pro-natural bodybuilder, marathoner, and triathlete, she presents at SCW MANIA® and holds certifications with AEA, NASM, Les Mills, and more. Cheri co-founded the WATERinMOTION® Strength program.
Dr. Edward Laskowski, MD
Dr. Edward R. Laskowski, M.D., is former Co-director of Mayo Clinic Sports Medicine and a Professor in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and the Division of Sports Medicine at Mayo Clinic Rochester. Nationally and internationally recognized for his expertise in fitness and sports medicine, Dr. Laskowski researches and promotes best practices for general fitness, injury prevention, and injury rehabilitation. From 2006 to 2010, he served on the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports under Presidents Bush and Obama, and he has several hundred publication credits, including scientific papers, abstracts, books, book reviews, and book chapters. He also is a trusted fitness and sports medicine resource for major television and print media.
Melissa Layne, MEd
Melissa is a Kinesiology Department Faculty Member at the University of North Georgia. She has been a well-respected and well-loved fitness and nutrition leader for over 35 years. Having created the SCW Nutrition Coaching for Fitness Professionals Certification, the SCW Nutrition, Hormones & Metabolism Certification, and contributed to the SCW Active Aging Certification, Melissa has consistently sold-out educational seminars. Melissa holds a Masters of Education in Exercise Science, a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education and an Associates degree in Medical Technology.
Merle Lee, MS
Merle is a Certified WILDFIT Coach with over 20 years of experience in Personal Training and Group Fitness. She helps clients achieve lasting fitness by combining wellness and exercise, believing that true fitness begins from the inside out. Through MLWellness, Merle meets clients where they are, offering gentle, tailored approaches to movement and lifestyle changes. Her goal is to support sustainable, healthy habits that enhance both physical fitness and overall well-being.
Rosie Lemons, MS, ERYT-200
With over 20 years of experience in teaching and counseling fitness, yoga, leadership, and organizational development, Rosie holds a Master’s in Human Development and has served as adjunct faculty at the University of Rhode Island. She is an ERYT, C-RYT, ACE CPT, and Fitness Nutrition Specialist with multiple SCW certifications. Currently, Rosie is part of the Fitness Team at Trilogy Orlando, an active aging community in central Florida.
Patrick Mummy
Patrick earned a baseball scholarship to San Diego State University & graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Athletic Training. He founded Symmetry for Health & was awarded a patent on a measurable system for postural assessment and corrective exercise - AlignSmart Technology. Patrick has written three books, the latest - ""The Physics of Pain; becoming Pain-Free"". He has spoken on the subject of postural assessment at multiple conferences & corporations.
Danielle Ontiveros
Danielle Ontiveros is the founder and CEO of Grab The Gold, a pioneering snack bar company established in 1990. Launching the business at age 16, Danielle has grown it into a debt-free, community-focused brand for over 30 years. Based in Franklin, TN, she champions flexible employment opportunities for veterans, single parents, and seniors, while giving back thousands of meals annually to address food insecurity.
Dane Robinson
Dane is a Certified Personal Trainer and Performance Enhancement Specialist (NASM) with extensive experience across all facets of the fitness industry. From hands-on personal and group training to regional department management, Dane’s career spans from the ground up. He currently impacts hundreds of clients in Atlanta, GA, through private and group training, and reaches thousands more as a TV fitness coach, appearing on platforms such as Daily Burn, Total Gym TV, MyFitnessPal, QVC, and the TODAY Show.
David-Dorian Ross
David-Dorian Ross has introduced more Americans to Tai Chi than any other teacher. Since 1979, he has studied under top masters and holds U.S. and world records in Tai Chi forms and competitions. As founder and CEO of TaijiFit, he created the TaijiFit method and is a best-selling author with over 150 Tai Chi educational DVDs and programs. He also serves as National Coordinator for the VA’s Tai Chi for Veterans program.
Kylie Ross, MSM, MBA
Kylie Ross is Owner of VK Professional Services, VRoK Fitness and a Tax Manager with TurboTax. VK Professional Services offers tax planning and preparation, bookkeeping, notary, website design and business consulting. Kylie Ross is a Certified Personal Trainer from SCW, Nutrition Coach and Bariatric Health Expert. She has been in both industries professionally for almost 6 years. She’s a Gastric Bypass recipient of 11 years and works hard to stay healthy and fit now she assists others to prevent obesity-driven conditions via virtual and mobile fitness and nutrition guidance.
Phil Ross, MS
Master Phil Ross, M.S., is a distinguished professional with a wealth of expertise in martial arts, fitness, and education. As a 9th Degree Black Belt and Master Blade Wielder, he has achieved mastery in various disciplines, including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Master RKC. With a Master's in Sports and Exercise Science, Phil is also a published author, accomplished actor, and college professor at American Public University Systems. His extensive experience as a professional presenter and bodyweight specialist makes him a respected figure in both the martial arts and fitness communities.
Deborah Rothschild, MS, NASM-CPT, ACE-CPT, AFAA-CGFI
Deborah Rothschild, MS, has been a fitness professional since 2003, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to her presentations. Deborah's specializations, such as ACE Senior Fitness Specialist & Brain Health Trainer, NFPT Cancer Recovery Specialist, BHOF BoneFit Instructor, and Parkinson Wellness Recovery PWR!Moves Instructor, highlight her commitment to continuous learning and staying at the forefront of the industry. She is the proud owner of Tough Agers, LLC, a virtual and on-location fitness company dedicated to serving older adults of all fitness levels and capabilities.
Zoraida (Zory) Sepulveda, MBA
Zory is an SCW Fitness Idol winner and works as a Holistic Health Coach, Presenter and Mindful Movement Specialist. Founder of “ZS-Wellness” and creator of WEPA Fitness, she’s a former AFAA Examiner for the Caribbean region. She possesses multiple certifications with over twenty four years of experience in the fitness industry. Zory has designed fitness programs for the government and corporations in Puerto Rico, and continues to work as a contributor for fitness and wellness pro-conventions, magazines and TV/Radio shows across the island.
Jennifer Shaver
Jen, owner of Strong for Life Fitness, created the Strong for Life strength training program tailored for busy midlife women. A NASM Certified Personal Trainer and Flipping 50 Menopause Fitness Specialist, she focuses on strength training for longevity and osteoporosis prevention. With a background in education, Jen simplifies fitness concepts, offers lifestyle and nutrition coaching, and hosts the *Fit News Podcast*, empowering women to achieve lasting health and vitality.
Amber Toole
Amber is a member of the SCW Faculty and shares her expertise in Fitness, Nutrition Coaching and running a successful Studio. Armed with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Physical Education and Health combined with 30+ years of experience in the fitness industry, Amber loves sharing her passion for inspiring others toward healthier, fitter, and more successful lives. Amber owns The Training Toole, a thriving Wellness Studio in Ocala, Florida that exemplifies her commitment to transforming lives.
Tara Turner
With over 20 years of experience as a Group Exercise instructor, Personal Trainer, and Conference Presenter, Tara Turner is a renowned leader in fitness. As a Master Trainer she certifies instructors in boxing, kickboxing, and kettlebell, and runs Turnstyle Fitness, an online platform. Tara empowers individuals to embrace their strength, spirit, and body, regardless of shape or size.
Sara Vandenberg, MS
Sara is a Minnesota-based fitness presenter with nearly 15 years in the fitness industry. She is a WATERinMOTION Champion and has appeared in WATERinMOTION fitness videos since 2021 as a lead presenter. Sara is a Master Trainer, Presenter, and Content Creator for the SOUL Fitness Brands and a member of the LES Mills TAP Team. Sara has a degree in Human Services, a Masters in School Counseling and holds certifications through numerous fitness programs including ACE, SCW, and BogaFit.
Manuel Velazquez
Manuel Velazquez is a WATERInMOTION® Platinum program choreographer and the Faculty Leader of the SCW Yoga 1 & 2 Certifications, as well as the SCW Tai Chi Certification. With over two decades of experience in the fitness industry, Manuel has been recognized as “All Around International Presenter of the Year"". He is also an RYT-200 Yoga certified instructor and is the Head Instructor at Rancho La Puerta Resort & Spa in Tecate, Mexico (outside of San Diego).
Ruston Webb, MS, FMS II, TPI-CGFI III
With over 24 years in the fitness industry and a Master’s degree in Human Movement, Ruston Webb is a globally recognized expert in mobility training and pain relief. He co-authored a college-level exercise science curriculum with the American Council on Exercise and successfully owned a gym for 11 years. As the creator of *The Mobility Recipe*, a certification trusted by over 1,600 health and fitness professionals and accredited by NASM, AFAA, and others, Ruston has also developed specialized programs for Knee, Back, Neck, and Shoulder Pain Solutions. His mission is simple: to empower fitness professionals to help their clients move better, feel better, and live pain-free.