From Olympic Training to Empowered Living: My Story

I learned it and earned it. Standing in an empty 6000-square-foot space in 2005, as a single mom with Olympic dreams for my athletes, I knew this moment would define everything that followed. The journey here hadn't been easy, but it had prepared me for what was coming.

The Foundation: Sport Science & High Performance
I earned my place at the highest levels of sport, serving as a strength and conditioning coach, researcher, and physiologist at the Canadian Sport Institute Manitoba. Working with Olympic-bound athletes showed me not just what the human body could achieve, but how mindset and determination could break through seemingly impossible barriers. I witnessed athletes shatter personal records, return from career-threatening injuries, and stand on Olympic podiums – all through the power of proper guidance and unwavering belief.

Taking the Leap: Building Empower Conditioning
When limited facilities threatened to compromise our athletes' Olympic preparations for 2008, I faced a choice: play it safe or create something bold. I chose bold. Opening a 6000-square-foot functional training center was revolutionary at the time – and terrifying as a single mother without nearby family support. But after a decade of coaching athletes and seeing the transformative power of proper training, I knew this was my calling.

The Growth Years
What started in Manitoba soon expanded beyond what I'd imagined. The journey took me through international work in Turkey, marriage to my partner Paul, blending our families, and relocating to London, Ontario – all while growing the business. Together with an exceptional team of coaches, we built Empower Conditioning into more than just a training center; it became a crucible for transformation, helping both athletes and achievers reach their full potential in sport, career, and life.

The Wake-Up Call
Success came with a price. Running a business, managing a blended family with five kids, and constantly putting others first led to severe burnout. Despite my expertise in physical health, I had neglected my own wellbeing. I rarely spent time in nature, which I loved. I helped others thrive while barely surviving. This crisis became my greatest teacher – showing me that true performance isn't just about pushing harder; it's about living in alignment with your values and taking care of yourself first.

The Transformation
This realization sparked an intensive period of study and growth. I immersed myself in behavior change science, holistic wellness, and leadership development – adding to my 25 years of coaching experience. The decision to sell my brick-and-mortar business wasn't easy, but it aligned with a bigger vision: helping people achieve high performance without sacrificing their wellbeing.

Highlights:

Leadership Impact: 50+ executives and teams transformed

Guest Speaking Engagements: Corporate events, Team events, Leadership Seminars

Professional Certifications: Certified Life Coach, Leadership Academy

Client Success Stories: Large scale organizations in a thriving culture and growth after rebuilding the leadership team, Founders finding health and joy during business start up, Owners finding themselves and their next purpose after selling

Empower Today: A New Chapter
Today, "the Empowered" represents everything I've learned through triumph and struggle. We deliver transformative coaching through live sessions, video courses, and nature-based leadership retreats. Our consulting helps business create thriving cultures. Our approach combines proven performance principles with deep wisdom about sustainable success. Whether you're a senior executive navigating organizational change, a business owner seeking balanced growth, or a leader ready to elevate your impact without sacrificing wellbeing, we've walked this path and can guide you through it.

What Sets Us Apart

25+ years of performance coaching and leadership development. Evidence-based methods tested in high-stakes environments. Deep understanding of sustainable transformation. Personal experience overcoming burnout and building balance. Holistic approach to leadership and wellbeing.

You'll find me living what I teach – taking action, embracing nature, serving others, and continuously growing. We believe in jumping off big rocks (literally and metaphorically) and showing up fully for life's adventures.

Ready to write your own transformation story? Let's connect and explore how we can help you achieve your greatest potential while leading a life you love.

Grow with us!