How did you discover CrossFit?
I discovered CrossFit around 2011 when I had entered my graduate program and needed something to do with my free time since I was no longer playing water polo collegiately. I had always been into weight lifting during water polo workouts, and I found CrossFit through word of mouth as the CF Games were starting to become more widely known.
What draws you to DeNovo CrossFit?
DeNovo is truly special and not like most CrossFit boxes—at least from the ones I’ve been a part of. DeNovo is people centered, community driven, phenomenally coached, precisely educated, confidently modifiable, and run/coached by some badass women. What continuously draws me into DeNovo is the caring and kind accountability from the Coaches, the community who genuinely misses you when you aren’t around, and the variety of WODs. I feel incredibly lucky to have found DeNovo and I think it’s the perfect fit for what I’m looking for at this stage in my life.
What do you feel is your biggest accomplishment in CrossFit and in life?
Previously I might’ve said in CrossFit my biggest accomplishment was this PR or lift I did, but as I’ve gotten older I’ve realized my biggest accomplishment with CrossFit has been showing up for myself and never being afraid to modify or not “RX” a workout. I used to be so concerned about the whiteboard and what my score/time/weight was matching up with others in my age group. Now I know the accomplishment is the challenge it provides me to be my best self and to keep showing up for myself in ways I didn’t before.
In life, my biggest accomplishment has been showing up authentically myself. As a person who knew from a young age that I was in the wrong body, transitioning has been incredibly fulfilling for me and comes with a deep sense of vulnerability and authenticity, both to myself and outwardly to the world. Having my kiddo, Finley, dug up something deep inside that reminded me she deserves to know the real me and not something I silence for the sake of others comfort. I am very open about my queerness and don’t ever mind having authentic and vulnerable conversations about my lived experience with others.
What athlete/s at DeNovo inspire you to be the best version of yourself each and every day?
Naming a specific athlete is hard to think of because there are specific folks in each class I look forward to seeing and working out with because I know the energy and care they bring to each class time. I think that’s something special about DeNovo–everyone is there for their own reasons and somehow always comes together for the greater group when needed. Let’s just say I really appreciate the 7:30/9:15 am class folks for always making it a blast! 🫶🏼
What is your pet peeve?
Loud chewing. 😵💫 EEEEEk.
What/who inspires you?
Gosh, there’s so much to find inspiration from in my life. Currently, my partner, Sydney. She’s just one of the best things in my life and she cares so deeply about me and those around her. She is finishing up her 2nd Masters right now in Clinical Mental Health (full-time @ CSU) while also doing part-time clinical practicum hours for her licensure/degree AND working full-time as an Academic Advisor. Not only that but she shows up daily for our family, me, her clients, colleagues, friends and students. I feel so incredibly lucky to be loved and partnered with the kindest, smartest and talented woman I know! To raise our kiddo around incredibly strong and inspiring women (such as Sydney and my Mom, Kathy), much like how I was raised, is all of the inspiration I need in my life!!!
Favorite workout song?
OOOOOO, tie with; “Till I Collapse,” Eminem OR “Work, B*tch”, Britney Spears
What advice would you have for anyone who is nervous to join DeNovo?
That is absolutely the most normal feeling when wanting to join any gym–CrossFit or otherwise. Being nervous means you care–you’re caring enough to show up and find the right fit; physically, emotionally and mentally for your wellbeing. Best advice I could give is to find what’s important to you within your wellness and how can DeNovo check those boxes. Ask the important questions, name your fears, show up for yourself in more ways than one, and most importantly–enjoy what you do and who you share your time with. Life's too short to do anything otherwise. Being nervous is normal, don’t fight it–it’s trying to tell you something that you might either already know or need to find out! Give DeNovo a chance and bet on yourself–I don’t think you’ll regret it!
What do you enjoy doing outside of CrossFit, both for fun and professionally?
OOO lots of fun things; throwing pottery, watching and playing (rec softball) sports, paddle boarding Horsetooth in the summer, being in any body of water (hot springs—woooooo!), traveling, playing video games, watching RuPaul’s Drag Race weekly with a group of friends, eating and learning about foods from various cultures, hanging out with my kiddo, playing with our pitbull/lab-Benji, skateboarding, and tufting rugs….just to name a few 😉
Professionally I work for the State of Colorado doing Suicide Prevention. I just have a passion for helping people and hope we as a state continue to change the landscape of mental health and encourage folks who are suicidal that there is so much more life left to live and love–help is available.
If we were sitting here one year from now, what would we be celebrating together?
How I got through some of the worst of the worst in my health–medically, and ended up on the other side. Healthier, confident in my body, and centered in my wellness. It’s a journey, y’all!
Favorite CrossFit movement?
Power Cleans
What are you currently reading?
Iron Flame 😍 & American Dirt
What are you thankful for?
That I’m Finley’s Baba (parent), my partner Sydney, my Mom Kathy, being alive, and DeNovo for giving me the confidence to break down walls I’ve built for myself without feeling like I had the courage and willpower to break them down myself.
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