Meet our Instructors
Studio Phoenix is proud to host some of the most highly-trained instructors in the state. With a variety of skills and strengths, we are sure to have an instructor who meets your needs as a dancer!
Amy
Amy (she/her) is a Senior Instructor, and teaches Pole Fitness, Lyra, Pole Conditioning, and Flex Conditioning.
Amy has been pole dancing since spring of 2016, after taking a teaser and falling in love with the sport. She is a level Elite student, and loves the challenge pole dancing provides. Always involved in sports growing up, Amy was looking for a new way to build strength and work out while having fun -- and pole dancing was just that. She loves the empowering, supportive environment of Studio Phoenix, and feels that pole dancing has contributed immensely to her gain in confidence and body positivity. Being an instructor allows her to help other women feel the same positive impacts pole dancing can have on their bodies and mental health as it’s had on her.
Amy’s background includes a bachelor degree in geology and a master’s in environmental science and policy. She worked as an environmental project manager in Chicago for a few years before going back to school for a master’s of art in teaching. She currently works as a high school science teacher. When she’s not at the studio, you can find her traveling and looking for adventure with her husband, daughter and two dogs.
Amy enjoys sharing her love of pole dancing with other women, and encouraging women at the studio to be their best. She loves how pole dancing uniquely combines a workout, and an amazing and positive environment, while allowing the creativity to flow. She appreciates everyone’s unique spin (ha!) on pole dancing, and enjoys helping students grow physically and mentally as they conquer new moves.
Pole Competition Medals:
2019 Great Lakes Doubles - 3rd Place
Amy has been pole dancing since spring of 2016, after taking a teaser and falling in love with the sport. She is a level Elite student, and loves the challenge pole dancing provides. Always involved in sports growing up, Amy was looking for a new way to build strength and work out while having fun -- and pole dancing was just that. She loves the empowering, supportive environment of Studio Phoenix, and feels that pole dancing has contributed immensely to her gain in confidence and body positivity. Being an instructor allows her to help other women feel the same positive impacts pole dancing can have on their bodies and mental health as it’s had on her.
Amy’s background includes a bachelor degree in geology and a master’s in environmental science and policy. She worked as an environmental project manager in Chicago for a few years before going back to school for a master’s of art in teaching. She currently works as a high school science teacher. When she’s not at the studio, you can find her traveling and looking for adventure with her husband, daughter and two dogs.
Amy enjoys sharing her love of pole dancing with other women, and encouraging women at the studio to be their best. She loves how pole dancing uniquely combines a workout, and an amazing and positive environment, while allowing the creativity to flow. She appreciates everyone’s unique spin (ha!) on pole dancing, and enjoys helping students grow physically and mentally as they conquer new moves.
Pole Competition Medals:
2019 Great Lakes Doubles - 3rd Place
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Anna
Anna is a Senior Instructor. She teaches Pole Dance, Phoenix HIIT, All About That Base, Stiletto Burn, and Pole Fundamentals.
At the age of two, Anna's mother put her into dance classes, because it seemed the only thing Anna could master in the world of motion was falling. Dance is now Anna’s life-long love. Anna has danced with the Denver Ballet Academy, Windy City Dance studios, Moves Dance Studio, and was captain of her dance team in college. Since starting with Studio Phoenix Anna has loved every minute of it Pole Dancing. The opportunity to combine a strength workout with dance has been a fantastic experience. Dance provides a unique medium in which we can express our emotions and stressors in movements rather than words.
Anna has been the fitness guru at her day job since 2012. She has taught every level of strength training and cardio classes to her co-workers to help release stress and improve their overall health. By day, Anna works as a Physician Assistant in Oncology. Treating patients with cancer has helped Anna to embrace the fact that life is short and that each day should be lived as fully as possible.
When not working or dancing, you’ll find Anna forging forward on whatever adventure she can find, lost in a good book, hanging out with her husband, or attending a family event (there’s a LOT of them).
Anna says, “Dancing and fitness are some of my favorite things, and I cannot wait to share that passion with others.”
Pole Competition Medals:
- 2019 Land Of Lakes Pole Dance Festival - Doubles - 3rd Place
- 2019 PSO Central Pole Championships - Doubles - 1st Place
- 2020 Land Of Lakes Pole Dance Festival - Doubles - 3rd Place
- 2022 PSO Central Pole Championships - Doubles - 1st Place
- 2022 PSO U.S. National Pole Championships - Doubles - 3rd Place
- 2023 PSO Great Lakes & After Dark Championships - Doubles - 1st Place
Certifications:
- CRNP Exotic Burn
At the age of two, Anna's mother put her into dance classes, because it seemed the only thing Anna could master in the world of motion was falling. Dance is now Anna’s life-long love. Anna has danced with the Denver Ballet Academy, Windy City Dance studios, Moves Dance Studio, and was captain of her dance team in college. Since starting with Studio Phoenix Anna has loved every minute of it Pole Dancing. The opportunity to combine a strength workout with dance has been a fantastic experience. Dance provides a unique medium in which we can express our emotions and stressors in movements rather than words.
Anna has been the fitness guru at her day job since 2012. She has taught every level of strength training and cardio classes to her co-workers to help release stress and improve their overall health. By day, Anna works as a Physician Assistant in Oncology. Treating patients with cancer has helped Anna to embrace the fact that life is short and that each day should be lived as fully as possible.
When not working or dancing, you’ll find Anna forging forward on whatever adventure she can find, lost in a good book, hanging out with her husband, or attending a family event (there’s a LOT of them).
Anna says, “Dancing and fitness are some of my favorite things, and I cannot wait to share that passion with others.”
Pole Competition Medals:
- 2019 Land Of Lakes Pole Dance Festival - Doubles - 3rd Place
- 2019 PSO Central Pole Championships - Doubles - 1st Place
- 2020 Land Of Lakes Pole Dance Festival - Doubles - 3rd Place
- 2022 PSO Central Pole Championships - Doubles - 1st Place
- 2022 PSO U.S. National Pole Championships - Doubles - 3rd Place
- 2023 PSO Great Lakes & After Dark Championships - Doubles - 1st Place
Certifications:
- CRNP Exotic Burn
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Carrie
Carrie (she/her) is a Senior Instructor. She teaches Pole Fitness, Pole Conditioning, Aerial Yoga, and Aerial Hammocks Conditioning. She's also part of our Party Squad! She is a certified Pole Instructor through Pole Fitness Alliance, a certified Aerial Yoga Instructor, and helped create our Hammocks curriculum.
Carrie has been poling since she attended a teaser class at Studio Phoenix in January 2015. While she first thought of pole as simply a fun way to work on upper body strength, she quickly grew addicted to the way pole constantly challenges your body and mind. She is a strong believer that pole is a great way for every human to release their inner beast - whether that beast be sexy, flexy, strong, or a fantastic combination!
As a certified instructor for a variety of apparatuses, Carrie teaches a wide range of classes both in the air and on the floor - all of which focus on strong technique. As the oldest instructor (in age) at the studio, she works hard to make sure she and her students can continue to pole as long, and as safely, as possible!
Pole Competition Medals:
- 2020 MNPC Advanced Performance Theater - 1st Place
- 2019 PSO Central Pole Championships, Level 4 Championship, Masters Division - 2nd Place
- 2018 PSO Gateway Pole Championships, Level 3 Floorwork/Low Flow, Masters Division - 2nd Place
- 2018 PSO Central Pole Championships, Level 3 Championship, Masters Division - 2nd Place
Certifications:
- Pole Fitness Alliance Level 1 and Level 2
- Liquid Motion Level 1.0 and Heels
- Spin City Alliance Shoulder Strength & Stability
- Spin City Alliance Beginners Aerial Sling
- PoleStrong Strength & Conditioning Specialist Level 1 and Level 2
Carrie has been poling since she attended a teaser class at Studio Phoenix in January 2015. While she first thought of pole as simply a fun way to work on upper body strength, she quickly grew addicted to the way pole constantly challenges your body and mind. She is a strong believer that pole is a great way for every human to release their inner beast - whether that beast be sexy, flexy, strong, or a fantastic combination!
As a certified instructor for a variety of apparatuses, Carrie teaches a wide range of classes both in the air and on the floor - all of which focus on strong technique. As the oldest instructor (in age) at the studio, she works hard to make sure she and her students can continue to pole as long, and as safely, as possible!
Pole Competition Medals:
- 2020 MNPC Advanced Performance Theater - 1st Place
- 2019 PSO Central Pole Championships, Level 4 Championship, Masters Division - 2nd Place
- 2018 PSO Gateway Pole Championships, Level 3 Floorwork/Low Flow, Masters Division - 2nd Place
- 2018 PSO Central Pole Championships, Level 3 Championship, Masters Division - 2nd Place
Certifications:
- Pole Fitness Alliance Level 1 and Level 2
- Liquid Motion Level 1.0 and Heels
- Spin City Alliance Shoulder Strength & Stability
- Spin City Alliance Beginners Aerial Sling
- PoleStrong Strength & Conditioning Specialist Level 1 and Level 2
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Cia
Cia is a Senior Instructor, and teaches Pole Fitness, Phoenix HIIT, All About That Base, Stiletto Burn, and specialty workshops. She is a certified advanced instructor through Discoveries Dance.
Cia took up pole fitness as a hobby in 2012. In 2014 she became a certified instructor through Discoveries Dance and since that time has added 3 additional certifications in exotic floor and lap dance including Exotic Burn, Liquid Motion and Lapryderz. Cia performed in her first showcase in 2013 and first competition in 2017. Since that time she has performed in 12 competitions and numerous showcases.
Cia has been married to her wonderfully supportive husband, Robert, since 2005. They share their home with their beautiful daughter Brinley, and two adorable cats, Doofy and Julius.
Pole Competition Medals:
- 2019 Land Of Lakes Pole Dance Festival - Doubles - 3rd Place
- 2019 PSO Central Pole Championships - Doubles - 1st Place
- 2021 2021 PSO Gemini Virtual Pole Championships - Level 4 Entertainment - 1st Place
- 2020 Land Of Lakes Pole Dance Festival - Doubles - 3rd Place
- 2022 PSO Central Pole Championships - Doubles - 1st Place
- 2022 PSO U.S. National Pole Championships - Doubles - 3rd Place
- 2023 PSO Great Lakes & After Dark Championships - Doubles - 1st Place
Certifications:
- Pole Fitness Alliance Level 1
- Discoveries Dance Advanced Instructor
- CRNP Exotic Burn
- Lapryderz Certified Instructor
- Liquid Motion Level 1.0
Cia took up pole fitness as a hobby in 2012. In 2014 she became a certified instructor through Discoveries Dance and since that time has added 3 additional certifications in exotic floor and lap dance including Exotic Burn, Liquid Motion and Lapryderz. Cia performed in her first showcase in 2013 and first competition in 2017. Since that time she has performed in 12 competitions and numerous showcases.
Cia has been married to her wonderfully supportive husband, Robert, since 2005. They share their home with their beautiful daughter Brinley, and two adorable cats, Doofy and Julius.
Pole Competition Medals:
- 2019 Land Of Lakes Pole Dance Festival - Doubles - 3rd Place
- 2019 PSO Central Pole Championships - Doubles - 1st Place
- 2021 2021 PSO Gemini Virtual Pole Championships - Level 4 Entertainment - 1st Place
- 2020 Land Of Lakes Pole Dance Festival - Doubles - 3rd Place
- 2022 PSO Central Pole Championships - Doubles - 1st Place
- 2022 PSO U.S. National Pole Championships - Doubles - 3rd Place
- 2023 PSO Great Lakes & After Dark Championships - Doubles - 1st Place
Certifications:
- Pole Fitness Alliance Level 1
- Discoveries Dance Advanced Instructor
- CRNP Exotic Burn
- Lapryderz Certified Instructor
- Liquid Motion Level 1.0
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Diana
Diana (she/they) has been pole dancing since May of 2021. Her greatest passions have always been dancing and making friends. She grew up taking ballet classes, became involved in extracurricular dance clubs in high school, and then picked up swing dancing and ZUMBA® to help with her mental health while pursuing a psychology degree at UIUC. In 2017, she became a certified ZUMBA® instructor so she could share her booty-shakin’ fun workouts with more people.
Diana came across Studio Phoenix after falling down a pole dancing rabbit hole on social media. She booked her first Pole Fundamentals class where she promptly fell in love with the challenge, artistry, and athleticism of pole dancing. The studio became a safe space and second home. She can often be found in the lobby crocheting her next project while chatting with students and other instructors. If she is not at the studio, she’s either teaching at a gym, working admin at a dental office, or relaxing at home with her supportive partner and their two kitties Ceecee and Kimchi.
Diana’s favorite part of teaching is inspiring students to move in a way that makes them feel joyful, creative, and empowered.
Certifications:
- Certified ZUMBA® instructor
Diana came across Studio Phoenix after falling down a pole dancing rabbit hole on social media. She booked her first Pole Fundamentals class where she promptly fell in love with the challenge, artistry, and athleticism of pole dancing. The studio became a safe space and second home. She can often be found in the lobby crocheting her next project while chatting with students and other instructors. If she is not at the studio, she’s either teaching at a gym, working admin at a dental office, or relaxing at home with her supportive partner and their two kitties Ceecee and Kimchi.
Diana’s favorite part of teaching is inspiring students to move in a way that makes them feel joyful, creative, and empowered.
Certifications:
- Certified ZUMBA® instructor
Jen C
Jen C (she/her) teaches Pole Fitness and Pole Fundamental classes.
Jen C has been poling since 2019, with class experience in chair dance, pole dance, and spin pole. She started poling with the intention of trying something new to get back in shape and ended up addicted to the positivity, confidence building, and sisterhood of the community at Studio Phoenix.
Jen C loves mentoring and teaching others how to become stronger, both physically and mentally, through pole dance and movement. She was also a collegiate swimmer, played water polo, and was competitive in Muaythai and kickboxing for over 13 years. In her spare time, she attends concerts and comedy shows with her amazing partner, Matt. And her cat, Blackjack, always offers full support and attention during her at-home practice sessions.
Jen C has been poling since 2019, with class experience in chair dance, pole dance, and spin pole. She started poling with the intention of trying something new to get back in shape and ended up addicted to the positivity, confidence building, and sisterhood of the community at Studio Phoenix.
Jen C loves mentoring and teaching others how to become stronger, both physically and mentally, through pole dance and movement. She was also a collegiate swimmer, played water polo, and was competitive in Muaythai and kickboxing for over 13 years. In her spare time, she attends concerts and comedy shows with her amazing partner, Matt. And her cat, Blackjack, always offers full support and attention during her at-home practice sessions.
Jen HJ
Jen HJ (she/her) is one of our Senior Instructors, teaching Pole Fitness, Lyra, Flex Conditioning, Pole Fundamentals, and specialty workshops. She’s been certified through Pole Fitness Alliance since spring 2015 and Liquid Motion since fall 2018. Jen HJ is also one of our Managing Instructors and our pole curriculum custodian.
Before taking her first pole class in 2013, Jen HJ had no previous dance or fitness experience. Clumsy with asthma, she was placed in the “special” PE class in High School. Now she can climb to the ceiling upside down and hang by only one knee - all while talking students through a move. Jen HJ loves hunting down variations and modifications of moves to help you conquer a trouble pose, work towards a challenging combo, or revitalize old favorites. She's passionate about safety and mobility, wanting all of her students to be able to keep dancing into their 90s.
Married with 3 fur-babies (cats) and a self-proclaimed geek, most of her non-studio time is spent with family, laughing with friends, and drinking tea while reading a fantasy or romance book.
Certifications:
- Pole Fitness Alliance Level 1 and Level 2
- Liquid Motion Level 1.0
Before taking her first pole class in 2013, Jen HJ had no previous dance or fitness experience. Clumsy with asthma, she was placed in the “special” PE class in High School. Now she can climb to the ceiling upside down and hang by only one knee - all while talking students through a move. Jen HJ loves hunting down variations and modifications of moves to help you conquer a trouble pose, work towards a challenging combo, or revitalize old favorites. She's passionate about safety and mobility, wanting all of her students to be able to keep dancing into their 90s.
Married with 3 fur-babies (cats) and a self-proclaimed geek, most of her non-studio time is spent with family, laughing with friends, and drinking tea while reading a fantasy or romance book.
Certifications:
- Pole Fitness Alliance Level 1 and Level 2
- Liquid Motion Level 1.0
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Jenni
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Jenni (she/her) is the Founder and CEO of Studio Phoenix, and is a Senior Instructor. She teaches Pole Fundamentals and Aerial Yoga.
See her full bio here. Pole Competition Medals: - 2019 PSO Central Pole Championships, Level 3 Entertainment, Masters Division - 2nd Place - 2018 Gateway Pole Championships Level 3 Floorwork/Low Flow, Masters Division - 1st Place Certifications: - Advanced pole instructor - Master Trainer - Aerius Spin pole instructor - Liquid Motion® 1.0 instructor - Aerial yoga instructor - Certified Somatic Coach - Certified Life Coach - Certified NLP Master Practitioner - Certified Reiki Master - Certified Meditation Practitioner |
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Julie
Julie is a Senior Instructor. She teaches Pole Fitness, Pole Fundamentals, Flex Conditioning, and Lyra. She became a certified Pole Instructor through Pole Fitness Alliance in Spring 2015. Julie is also one of our Managing Instructors.
Julie has been pole dancing since 2014 and loves the challenge in conquering a new move or helping a student with their nemesis move. Aside from pole dancing, she also enjoys bike rides, trampoline parks, and being outdoors. She lives with her husband, son, and her two dogs.
Julie says, "I love to teach because I love the strength and confidence it's given me and I want other women to have that. Also, it's a great workout that you can really look forward to with such a supportive atmosphere."
Certifications:
- Pole Fitness Alliance Level 1
Julie has been pole dancing since 2014 and loves the challenge in conquering a new move or helping a student with their nemesis move. Aside from pole dancing, she also enjoys bike rides, trampoline parks, and being outdoors. She lives with her husband, son, and her two dogs.
Julie says, "I love to teach because I love the strength and confidence it's given me and I want other women to have that. Also, it's a great workout that you can really look forward to with such a supportive atmosphere."
Certifications:
- Pole Fitness Alliance Level 1
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Melissa
Melissa is a Senior Instructor. She teaches Pole Fitness, Lyra, Spin Pole, Liquid Motion, Low Flow, Freestyle, and Flex Conditioning.
Melissa was introduced to pole dance and fitness in 2008. Prior to that introduction, she had no dance experience and zero motivation to work out. Her primary exposure to fitness prior to that was forced movement while being enlisted in the Army. With no prior experience, she developed a dislike for running and working out.
Once she found her way to pole dancing she was immediately drawn to the difference she felt in her body, her mind and her self-confidence. Pole fitness uncovered the ability to disconnect from the world and reconnect to her body. Working out became therapy. Watching herself and her classmates grow in their movements and confidence was life changing and Melissa was instantly hooked. Since then she has also crossed trained in dance, lyra, hot yoga and stretch/contortion.
At first, Melissa wanted ALL the tricks and ONLY tricks. Over the years, as her movement confidence built and her pole dance guru pushed her past her self-defined boundaries, she transitioned from being a trickster to being drawn to and craving floorwork, low flow and freestyle movement. With over 9 years of pole dancing experience, Melissa always enjoys sharing this enlightenment with others.
In her day job, Melissa is a registered nurse working in clinical trials research helping bring new medicines to patients. Bringing new and more effective treatments to patients is her passion. In her freetime, Melissa loves to spend time with her family and loves anything outdoors – ice fishing in Michigan, kayaking, boating and traveling as much as possible. She lives with her boyfriend and their two dogs - a Boston Terrier named Madeline and a Yorkie named Magnum.
Pole Competition Medals:
- 2018 Great Lakes Pole Championships Level 3 Dramatic, Junior/Senior Division - 3rd Place
- 2018 Gateway Pole Championships Level 3 Floorwork/Low Flow, Junior Division - 2nd Place
- 2018 Central Pole Championships Level 2 Floorwork/Low Flow, Junior Division - 2nd Place
Certifications:
- Aerius Spin pole instructor
- Liquid Motion Level 1.0 and 2.0
- Certified PDC Instructor and Grading Assessor
Melissa was introduced to pole dance and fitness in 2008. Prior to that introduction, she had no dance experience and zero motivation to work out. Her primary exposure to fitness prior to that was forced movement while being enlisted in the Army. With no prior experience, she developed a dislike for running and working out.
Once she found her way to pole dancing she was immediately drawn to the difference she felt in her body, her mind and her self-confidence. Pole fitness uncovered the ability to disconnect from the world and reconnect to her body. Working out became therapy. Watching herself and her classmates grow in their movements and confidence was life changing and Melissa was instantly hooked. Since then she has also crossed trained in dance, lyra, hot yoga and stretch/contortion.
At first, Melissa wanted ALL the tricks and ONLY tricks. Over the years, as her movement confidence built and her pole dance guru pushed her past her self-defined boundaries, she transitioned from being a trickster to being drawn to and craving floorwork, low flow and freestyle movement. With over 9 years of pole dancing experience, Melissa always enjoys sharing this enlightenment with others.
In her day job, Melissa is a registered nurse working in clinical trials research helping bring new medicines to patients. Bringing new and more effective treatments to patients is her passion. In her freetime, Melissa loves to spend time with her family and loves anything outdoors – ice fishing in Michigan, kayaking, boating and traveling as much as possible. She lives with her boyfriend and their two dogs - a Boston Terrier named Madeline and a Yorkie named Magnum.
Pole Competition Medals:
- 2018 Great Lakes Pole Championships Level 3 Dramatic, Junior/Senior Division - 3rd Place
- 2018 Gateway Pole Championships Level 3 Floorwork/Low Flow, Junior Division - 2nd Place
- 2018 Central Pole Championships Level 2 Floorwork/Low Flow, Junior Division - 2nd Place
Certifications:
- Aerius Spin pole instructor
- Liquid Motion Level 1.0 and 2.0
- Certified PDC Instructor and Grading Assessor
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Nicole
Nicole teaches Lyra, also known as Aerial Hoop.
Nicole began her Lyra journey as a student in 2019. While Lyra drew her in, it was the supportive and warm aerial community that kept her coming back. When the opportunity arose to begin teaching, Nicole jumped at the chance. She’s been teaching lyra exclusively since 2021 and has also obtained her Specialist in Group Fitness certification. Nicole brings an artistic spin to lyra and helps you cultivate your own strength and style. Her classes are supportive, happy, and a fun space to learn and grow!
Nicole began her Lyra journey as a student in 2019. While Lyra drew her in, it was the supportive and warm aerial community that kept her coming back. When the opportunity arose to begin teaching, Nicole jumped at the chance. She’s been teaching lyra exclusively since 2021 and has also obtained her Specialist in Group Fitness certification. Nicole brings an artistic spin to lyra and helps you cultivate your own strength and style. Her classes are supportive, happy, and a fun space to learn and grow!
Nikki
Nikki is a Senior Instructor, and teaches Pole Fitness, Boss Chick Dance Workout, and Spin Pole. She is a certified Spin Pole Instructor, and a certified Boss Chick Dance Workout instructor.
Nikki doesn't have a trained dance background, but she used to praise dance as a child, and she would teach herself the choreography to music videos all of the time. So, you could say that she's always loved to dance.
She started pole dancing in 2014, thinking it would be a fun way to exercise and she was right. It’s the only exercise she has stuck with consistently, and she adds, "and boy have I tried to work out other ways!"
Nikki says, "What I really love about pole is that it helped me become more comfortable with my body, find my sexy in movement, and gave me a little more confidence. By instructing I hope to give those things and more to other women."
Certifications:
- Aerius Spin Pole
- The Boss Chick Dance Workout
Nikki doesn't have a trained dance background, but she used to praise dance as a child, and she would teach herself the choreography to music videos all of the time. So, you could say that she's always loved to dance.
She started pole dancing in 2014, thinking it would be a fun way to exercise and she was right. It’s the only exercise she has stuck with consistently, and she adds, "and boy have I tried to work out other ways!"
Nikki says, "What I really love about pole is that it helped me become more comfortable with my body, find my sexy in movement, and gave me a little more confidence. By instructing I hope to give those things and more to other women."
Certifications:
- Aerius Spin Pole
- The Boss Chick Dance Workout
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Noel
Noel teaches Pole Fitness, Low Flow, and Pilates.
Noel started pole classes at Studio Phoenix in January 2017. After decades of traditional dance and Pilates classes, she was looking for a new challenge and she found it. Studio Phoenix was a pleasant surprise in both the welcoming environment of the studio and the progressive level of difficulty each class delivered.
Noel started dancing on a competition team in high school. She went on to earn a BA in Dance in 2001 along with her Pilates certification shortly after. For over two decades, she’s been helping people reach their fitness goals. Whether you’re coming to class to build up your strength or simply for the fun of dancing around a pole, she’s likely to make sure you’re doing it safely and using your core.
When not involved in exercise-related activities, you can probably find her in the kitchen cooking and/or eating, reading a dirty book, or trying to keep her hilarious husband and stubborn daughter on schedule.
Pole Competition Medals:
- 2019 PSO Central Pole Championships, Level 3 Entertainment, Senior Division, 2nd Place
Certifications:
- Romana’s Pilates Certified instructor
- OOV Level 3 instructor
Noel started pole classes at Studio Phoenix in January 2017. After decades of traditional dance and Pilates classes, she was looking for a new challenge and she found it. Studio Phoenix was a pleasant surprise in both the welcoming environment of the studio and the progressive level of difficulty each class delivered.
Noel started dancing on a competition team in high school. She went on to earn a BA in Dance in 2001 along with her Pilates certification shortly after. For over two decades, she’s been helping people reach their fitness goals. Whether you’re coming to class to build up your strength or simply for the fun of dancing around a pole, she’s likely to make sure you’re doing it safely and using your core.
When not involved in exercise-related activities, you can probably find her in the kitchen cooking and/or eating, reading a dirty book, or trying to keep her hilarious husband and stubborn daughter on schedule.
Pole Competition Medals:
- 2019 PSO Central Pole Championships, Level 3 Entertainment, Senior Division, 2nd Place
Certifications:
- Romana’s Pilates Certified instructor
- OOV Level 3 instructor
Robin
Robin (she/her) is a Senior Instructor teaching Pole Fitness, Lyra, and Pole Fundamentals. She's also our social media coordinator.
Robin started pole dancing in June of 2018 and lyra (aerial hoop) in February of 2019. When she started she instantly fell in love. She loves the positivity and empowerment that comes from the pole community. As someone who has struggled to open up and struggles with body positivity she found herself when she began dancing. She loves seeing all the strong women around her encouraging each other and seeing everyone’s different strengths. She loves the way pole makes you push yourself and makes you do things you never thought were possible.
Outside of training, she is a nanny and has her certification as an infant and toddler teacher and is continuing to expand her schooling of early childhood education and hopes to go on to be a teacher. She loves to spend the weekends with her family and friends at her family's cabin in Wisconsin, enjoys doing anything outdoors, and trying any DIY projects she can find, especially from Pinterest!
Robin started pole dancing in June of 2018 and lyra (aerial hoop) in February of 2019. When she started she instantly fell in love. She loves the positivity and empowerment that comes from the pole community. As someone who has struggled to open up and struggles with body positivity she found herself when she began dancing. She loves seeing all the strong women around her encouraging each other and seeing everyone’s different strengths. She loves the way pole makes you push yourself and makes you do things you never thought were possible.
Outside of training, she is a nanny and has her certification as an infant and toddler teacher and is continuing to expand her schooling of early childhood education and hopes to go on to be a teacher. She loves to spend the weekends with her family and friends at her family's cabin in Wisconsin, enjoys doing anything outdoors, and trying any DIY projects she can find, especially from Pinterest!
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Sally
Sally teaches aerial silks and lyra.
Sally has been doing aerial since August of 2009 when she joined Illinois State University’s Gamma Phi Circus. She immediately fell in love with aerial. While in Gamma Phi she performed in every aerial act they had at the time: silks, Spanish Web, Lyra, Multiple Trapeze, and Triple Trapeze. She also performed in bike-built-for-ten and as a flyer in unicycles.
In college, she also began coaching at the Junior Gamma Phi Circus and at the Gamma Phi Circus summer camps. She has been coaching in various environments and various ages since then. After college she performed aerials at private events in Chicago with "The Runnaway Circus".
Missing aerial classes and not having many options in the suburbs, Sally took her first pole class in 2015 with Studio Phoenix. Pole brought a whole new challenge that she has fallen in love with. In her free time, you can find Sally reading a book, playing with her dog, Kaleb, volunteering, or working at her 9-to-5.
Sally has been doing aerial since August of 2009 when she joined Illinois State University’s Gamma Phi Circus. She immediately fell in love with aerial. While in Gamma Phi she performed in every aerial act they had at the time: silks, Spanish Web, Lyra, Multiple Trapeze, and Triple Trapeze. She also performed in bike-built-for-ten and as a flyer in unicycles.
In college, she also began coaching at the Junior Gamma Phi Circus and at the Gamma Phi Circus summer camps. She has been coaching in various environments and various ages since then. After college she performed aerials at private events in Chicago with "The Runnaway Circus".
Missing aerial classes and not having many options in the suburbs, Sally took her first pole class in 2015 with Studio Phoenix. Pole brought a whole new challenge that she has fallen in love with. In her free time, you can find Sally reading a book, playing with her dog, Kaleb, volunteering, or working at her 9-to-5.
Sarah
Sarah is a Senior Instructor. She teaches Pole Fitness, Flex Conditioning, and Pole Fundamentals. She is a certified spin pole instructor.
She started pole in the fall of 2014 and completely fell in love with it! She was immediately drawn to the strength-building aspects of pole fitness – she wanted to become a stronger person physically and mentally. Sarah danced throughout high school and was the president of the dance team for 2 years, so she loves that she can hold on to that dance element while also getting a great workout with pole fitness. What really keeps Sarah addicted to pole is the positive and encouraging environment at Studio Phoenix. All of her worries just dissipate the second she walks through the door. She loves how each class continuously challenges her; and being surrounded by so many beautiful, encouraging women is such a refreshing feeling.
Sarah’s background includes a bachelor degree in accounting and a masters in nonprofit administration, both of which she puts to use working as an project manager for a non-profit, healthcare company. When she’s not at work or the studio, you can find her hanging out with her husband, two kids, and two cats.
Sarah says, "Learning pole dancing was one of the best things I've ever done for myself, physically and mentally. I've built so much muscle and gained so much self-confidence. My body is a weapon and I can't wait to share what I've learned with others!"
Certifications:
- Aerius Spin Pole
She started pole in the fall of 2014 and completely fell in love with it! She was immediately drawn to the strength-building aspects of pole fitness – she wanted to become a stronger person physically and mentally. Sarah danced throughout high school and was the president of the dance team for 2 years, so she loves that she can hold on to that dance element while also getting a great workout with pole fitness. What really keeps Sarah addicted to pole is the positive and encouraging environment at Studio Phoenix. All of her worries just dissipate the second she walks through the door. She loves how each class continuously challenges her; and being surrounded by so many beautiful, encouraging women is such a refreshing feeling.
Sarah’s background includes a bachelor degree in accounting and a masters in nonprofit administration, both of which she puts to use working as an project manager for a non-profit, healthcare company. When she’s not at work or the studio, you can find her hanging out with her husband, two kids, and two cats.
Sarah says, "Learning pole dancing was one of the best things I've ever done for myself, physically and mentally. I've built so much muscle and gained so much self-confidence. My body is a weapon and I can't wait to share what I've learned with others!"
Certifications:
- Aerius Spin Pole
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Selina
Selina teaches Pole Fitness and Pole Fundamentals.
Selina loves learning and sharing her passions with others. She is a Pastry Chef but currently wears many hats including Human Resource Manager at her wife’s family's food manufacturing business.
When she isn’t working or at the studio she is baking or crafting for her at-home side business, and/or just for fun. She also enjoys watching comedies, reality tv, listening to music, playing Kickball, softball, and flag football.
Selina’s first experience with aerial arts started with silks in 2016. The friends she made convinced her to try pole dancing. Though dancing made her nervous she quickly fell in love with the tricks and the strength and growing confidence she gained. Selina enjoys her pole and lyra classes here at the studio. Classes are her “me time,” and buying new pole wear or heels is her form of “treat yourself.” It truly is therapeutic for her.
Selina is so excited to have a new pole family, and to share this art that brings her so much joy.
Competitions:
- 2017 Central Pole Championships Level 2 Entertainment, Junior Division - 2nd Place
Selina loves learning and sharing her passions with others. She is a Pastry Chef but currently wears many hats including Human Resource Manager at her wife’s family's food manufacturing business.
When she isn’t working or at the studio she is baking or crafting for her at-home side business, and/or just for fun. She also enjoys watching comedies, reality tv, listening to music, playing Kickball, softball, and flag football.
Selina’s first experience with aerial arts started with silks in 2016. The friends she made convinced her to try pole dancing. Though dancing made her nervous she quickly fell in love with the tricks and the strength and growing confidence she gained. Selina enjoys her pole and lyra classes here at the studio. Classes are her “me time,” and buying new pole wear or heels is her form of “treat yourself.” It truly is therapeutic for her.
Selina is so excited to have a new pole family, and to share this art that brings her so much joy.
Competitions:
- 2017 Central Pole Championships Level 2 Entertainment, Junior Division - 2nd Place
TaShona
TaShona is a Senior Instructor. She teaches Pole Fitness, Liquid Motion, Phoenix HIIT, and Pole Fundamentals. She is a certified Boss Chick Dance Workout instructor. TaShona is also one of our Managing Instructors.
TaShona “Shona” began pole in May 2015 and was part of the first session at the current studio. She started as a way to try a new fitness regime that related to her background in cheerleading and hip-hop dancing. Since starting pole, Shona has enjoyed watching herself and those around her challenge themselves and grow physically and mentally. She loves the positive environment and motivating other students that they can succeed. If you've seen her around the studio most likely there's a twerk involved or laughter. Pole has changed Shona’s personal life not only by giving her new found confidence but also decreased her anxiety level substantially. She loves motivating students to conquer their pole qualms and nemesis moves and being a support system for them. Also, she loves being involved in the success of individuals at her “second home.“
Certifications:
- Liquid Motion Level 1.0, 2.0, and Heels
- The Boss Chick Dance Workout
TaShona “Shona” began pole in May 2015 and was part of the first session at the current studio. She started as a way to try a new fitness regime that related to her background in cheerleading and hip-hop dancing. Since starting pole, Shona has enjoyed watching herself and those around her challenge themselves and grow physically and mentally. She loves the positive environment and motivating other students that they can succeed. If you've seen her around the studio most likely there's a twerk involved or laughter. Pole has changed Shona’s personal life not only by giving her new found confidence but also decreased her anxiety level substantially. She loves motivating students to conquer their pole qualms and nemesis moves and being a support system for them. Also, she loves being involved in the success of individuals at her “second home.“
Certifications:
- Liquid Motion Level 1.0, 2.0, and Heels
- The Boss Chick Dance Workout
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Party Instructors
Aubrey
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Brittany
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Kelly
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Lisa
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Stacey
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