My Story


In 2018 Flannery and I decided to go against the grain and move to a 1930s hobby farmhouse in Howard County. Despite the challenges and isolation that come with rural living, we are grateful to have 27-acres of space to not only preserve but also enhance. In the short time we have lived there, we have transformed the space into a joint-business venture called Tailwind Acres. Check it out. ​
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Another project we began even earlier in 2017 was to start a family. While it also comes with challenges, we are grateful to now have two healthy and funny kids, Linden and Neely.
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As both of these ventures were unfolding in our lives, I began to realize that the old way of doing things just wasn't working anymore. After 15 years of teaching high school science, I decided to make a change. In 2025 I requested and was granted service leave to explore more flexible and challenging career opportunities.
I have always been called to serve others and believe intensely in the power of human connection. Once old enough to choose my path in life, I began with two years of service in the US Peace Corps (South Africa, '07-'09). Back in the USA I chose a career in education and volunteering as an athletic coach. While continuing to pursue my own passion for exercise, I realized the benefits of massage therapy, specifically for treating physical pain.
Since 2014 I have been a licensed massage therapist (LMT) specializing in clinical orthopedic techniques. Additionally I have continued coaching youth and now adult athletes in running and triathlon. After considerable reflection I realized my heart felt called to continue building community and serving others through fitness coaching and massage therapy. Therefore, in 2025 I created Leverage-Better to share what I know to improve the health and well-being of others.
Personal Bests
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1m: 4:27
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5k: 14:50
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10k: 31:01
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Half Marathon: 1:07:02
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Full Marathon: 2:19:28
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Athletic Achievements
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25+ marathons completed
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13+ marathons (sub-2:25)
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7 x Ironman Finisher
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Professional triathlete ('12-'14)
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Certifications
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Licensed Massage Therapist
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USATF Certification Level #1

