Meet The Team
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Catherine Betts
Owner- Fitness Instructor & Personal Trainer
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Britney Plummer
In House- Massage Therapist
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Michelle Rahlves
Pilates/Barre, Bootcamp Instructor & Trainer
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Ingrid Stutzman
Pilates/Barre, Bootcamp Instructor & Trainer
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Nick Ramsey
Fitness Instructor & Personal Trainer
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Amy Renn
Bootcamp, Yoga & Youth Training
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Emily Williams
Yoga Instructor & Pre/Postnatal
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Isabelle Marie
Yoga Instructor
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Jill Schmitz
U-Jam Dance Instructor
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Heather Tjalma
Hips-AFLOW Dance Instructor
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Nikki Dean
Yoga Instructor & Transformational Coach
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Brooke Haley
Yoga Instructor
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Tanya Fuller
Barre/Yoga/Fitness Instructor
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Ashley Anderson
Kids Dance & Gymnastics
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Holly Pyper
Yoga Instructor
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Staci Curtis
Instructor & Personal Trainer
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Emily Pruitt
Pilates Instructor
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Hawley Kobayashi
Yoga Instructor
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Gyöngyi Ridenour
Yoga Instructor & Sound Healer
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Sarah Dittmore
Kids & Youth Yoga Instructor
Catherine Betts- Owner
Personal Trainer & Fitness Instructor
Catherine's early passion for sports led her to compete in soccer, track, and basketball. After earning her degree in Exercise and Sports Sciences and playing D1 & Semi Pro Soccer she trained elite athletes in the NBA, NFL & US National Soccer Teams at Athletes Performance and was an early TRX employee.
Catherine is the owner of The Shire Studio living in Glenshire with her two young children & husband. She focuses on holistic fitness, combining strength training, yoga, and neuroscience to help clients build lifelong health and wellness strategies.
Britney Plummer
Massage Therapist
Britney, is a dedicated massage therapist whose passion for wellness started as an athlete studying Exercise Physiology at CSUC. Her knowledge evolved through working with physical therapists, chiropractors, and in cardiac rehabilitation establishing an intuitive foundation for bodywork.
As an accomplished sports nutritionist; Britney's holistic journey led her to the California College of Ayurveda in 2019, studying practices such as Shidoraha and Abhyanga. In 2021, she completed a comprehensive 650-hour program at the Bodhi Tree Healing Center. Here, she mastered modalities like deep tissue, prenatal, acupressure, myofascial release, dynamic cupping, warm stones, sports massage, and energy techniques.
Britney has experience in co-creating healing workshops, and facilitating women's circles. Today, she is a gentle presence with an integrated skill set of modalities that honor the client's dynamic needs. Britney's unique and effective approach nurtures a deeper connection between mind, body, and soul. Empowering clients to transform and transcend on their wellness journey.
Sarah Dittmore
Yoga, Gymnastics & Art Instructor (Kids & Youth)
Sarah Dittmore is a 500-hour Registered Yoga Teacher with a passion for making yoga fun and accessible for everyone—especially kids! Over the past decade, she has shared her love for yoga in the Bay Area, New York City, Scotland, and now here in Tahoe and Truckee. Sarah has worked with children in a variety of capacities since her teens including working as a professional nanny, children's art teacher, and children's yoga teacher for most of her adult career. Having worked with children ages 18-months to 18-years, Sarah has taught young people of all ages in all kinds of settings, and loved every moment. In Sarah's classes, she blends her knowledge of childhood development with a playful, mindful approach to movement to create experiences that are simultaneously enriching, educational, and super fun. She's so excited to bring these yoga classes to the Glenshire community and can’t wait to see your little ones on the mat!
Michelle Rahlves
Pilates & Barre Instructor
Working in Physical Therapy for 7 years with Ladd Williams PT, Michelle learned the correct techniques for an effective safe workout. Training in Barre classes in Southern California, she knew life without Barre Workouts in Truckee would be rough. She opened her first Bar Effect studio in 2010.
As a 27 year Truckee resident from Dana Point CA, Michelle has worked as an Emergency Medical Technician, traveled with The U.S. Ski Team in Europe for 4 years with her husband Daron, while studying ER Nursing and personal training with the ISSA, the International Sports Science Association. Partnering up with The High Fives Foundation in 2011 has given her experience in working with injured athletes of all levels. After 8 years on the Snowboard Circuit, Michelle rehabbed her knee of 11 surgeries with Barre workouts. The Bar Effect now allows for an active life style while trying to keep up with her 16 year old twins Miley and Dreyson.
In 2020 she turned to Zoom for an extensive on-line Bar Effect workout program, she has added Mindy-Body Fitness Coaching to her list of certifications with Bemer Therapy (PEMF) She will give individual corrections to push you to your next level while encouraging you to not only engage your entire body but to connect your mind to movement.
Ingrid Stutzman
Personal Trainer & Pilates Instructor
Ingrid’s love for fitness started at an early age as a gymnast. Her gymnastic career sparked an interest in many other activities over the years, including skiing, dance, yoga and SUP. After receiving her bachelor’s degree in Nutrition from Drexel University in 2001, Ingrid attained professional personal fitness certifications through the National Academy of Sports Medicine, the American College of Sports Medicine, and TRX. She studied under Elizabetth Larkam at the San Francisco Bay Club and also became certified in Pilates Mat, and Reformer. Ingrid’s passion for health and fitness has made her committed to helping people live a more enriched life. Her emphasis is on stretching with strength and control, muscle sculpting, injury prevention, and whole body movement. As a mom of two, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, and hiking with her dogs.
Gyöngyi Ridenour
Yoga Instructor & Sound Healer
Gyöngyi Ridenour is a seasoned Sound Healer with over 15 years of experience, offering transformative healing experiences through sound. Born in Romania with Hungarian roots, Gyöngyi's journey has taken her across the globe, settling in the USA where she has cultivated her expertise in sound healing.
Her transformative encounter with Metal Singing Bowls in Austria, under the guidance of Ulriche K., a certified Sound Healer, inspired her to become certified as a Sound Healer, Reiki Master, Emotion Code practitioner, and AromaTouch practitioner with DoTerra. Gyöngyi's 15 years of sound healing experience have led her to train over 50 individuals in sound healing and offer her services at festivals, retreats, and women's circles.
In 2012, Gyöngyi traveled to India to earn her 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training Certification, integrating sound and essential oils into her classes in the Lake Tahoe region. Her journey also includes certifications in life coaching and psychic abilities, enhancing her capabilities as a healer.
Gyöngyi has been a valued member of The Sanctuary team for several years, where she leads sound healing meditations and offers private sessions, contributing her expertise and passion for holistic wellness. Passionate about guiding others towards well-being, Gyöngyi specializes in mindset assessment as a spiritual life coach, helping individuals gain new perspectives and take inspired actions towards their goals. Gyöngyi's focus on holistic tools and experiences supports others on their path to greater well-being and fulfillment. In the winter, she also teaches cross-country skiing part-time and is a certified Level 3 PSIA member instructor.
Brooke Haley
Yoga & Breath-Work Teacher
Brooke is an International Yoga and Wellness Teacher who has dedicated her life to embodying and sharing the practices of Yoga.
Brooke uses Yoga Therapy, a practice of empowering individuals to progress toward improved health and well-being through the application of the teachings and practices of Yoga. Brooke specializes in motivating and helping others transform their lives through creating and implementing a personalized and evolving Yoga practice that leads one on a journey to becoming the best version of themselves, physically, mentally and spiritually.
She offers private sessions, small group and corporate wellness classes as well as curating sacred unique wellness retreats.
Certifications, Education and Training: Certified 500-RYT Yoga Alliance, Certified Trauma-Informed Yoga Instructor, Reiki Master, Advanced Yoga Therapy Certificate - Loyola Marymount University, Master’s in Yoga Studies and Yoga Therapy Program - Loyola Marymount University
Emily Williams
Yoga Instructor
Emily Williams is a yoga instructor, business owner, independent contractor and a mom. She was the founder and owner of Trails Within, which was the cutest little yoga studio in Graeagle, California. She is passionate about guiding students toward discovering what is possible in life when we bring our whole selves to each moment. Her desire is to share how yoga builds community, connects us to each other, and inspires us to reach our full potential.
Emily is first and foremost a student of yoga, and has been studying yoga for over 20 years. She has been sharing her love of yoga as a teacher for 18 years. Emily has trained in Hatha, Iyengar, Ashtanga, Vinyasa and the Anusara yoga traditions. She teaches alignment based Hatha yoga drawing from the various traditions she has studied. Her classes often include elements of somatic movement, pranayama and meditation. She is also trained in therapeutics, pre/post-natal, and restorative yoga.
Staci Curtis
Fitness Instructor, Yoga, & Kids Instructor
Staci is from a small mountain town in Northern California and currently calls the Tahoe/Truckee area home, where she indulges in my love for exploration, adventure, and creation. Movement, in all its forms, has been her passion since forever. From a competitive dance team in high school to studying dance extensively in college, her journey naturally led her to discover the transformative power of yoga.
Embarking on a consistent yoga practice has had a profound impact on her entire life. Not only did it make her a more composed and stress-free person, but it elevated her skills in various aspects. her confidence soared, coordination improved, and enthusiasm for trying new things reached new heights!
In 2009, she earned an associate's degree in dance in Costa Mesa, CA where she deepened her yoga knowledge with a 200-hour Yoga Alliance teacher training in 2016 in Truckee, CA, focusing on Bhakti yoga. In 2019, she pursued a 300-hour Yoga Alliance teacher training in Rishikesh, India, specializing in Holistic Yoga Therapy. Along the way, she’s completed Reiki trainings, studied process coaching, took TRX Suspension and RIPPED courses, and even delved into Thai massage.
For almost 18 years now, she has been teaching various movement forms, sharing her passion for these practices.
Whatever she is teaching . . . yoga, dance, TRX, cardio, or strength training, she hopes it brings you exactly what your soul needs. She hope it brings you . . . home.
When she’s not on the yoga mat, you can find her cruising through the trees on a powder day, enjoying some waves in the ocean, maneuvering down a mountainside on my mountain bike, floating on any type of body of water, or taking a hike to anywhere with an amazing view.
Isabelle Marie
Yoga Instructor
Isabelle’s spiritual journey began as a child and has evolved over the last 20 years of teaching. Her roots are in ashtanga vinyasa yoga, but shaped by her studies in various disciplines including ayurveda, classical yoga studies, and by the everyday teachings of life itself. Her latest musings include being a mother to two little yogi groms- her greatest teachers thus far. Isabelle currently resides in North Lake Tahoe where she plays outside everyday.
Nick Ramsey
Fitness Instructor & Personal Trainer
With a background as a Division 3 College Track & Field Athlete, Competitive Powerlifting, and Weightlifting, I bring over a decade of diverse athletic experience to my role as a personal trainer. I have competed at notable events such as the IPL Junior Worlds, the USAW American Open, and USAW Nationals, at some of the highest national levels. My extensive training has earned me USAW Coach Certification and ACE Certification back in 2016.
My training philosophy centers around the mind-body connection, which I call “mindful movement.” I believe in being fully in tune with one’s body and experience during training, using this awareness to enhance overall performance and well-being. This approach not only improves physical fitness but also supports outdoor adventures, enabling clients to enjoy long days exploring the Sierra and the beauty of the mountains. My goal is to help clients achieve a harmonious balance between their fitness routines and their passion for outdoor activities, fostering a deeper connection with nature and themselves.
Ashley Anderson
Kids Dance & Gymnastics
Ashley grew up on the East Coast in New Hampshire and moved to Tahoe in 2012. She is now a mom of two young boys here in Truckee. She enjoys everything exercise and spends most of her free time in nature with her children.
Ashley enjoyed playing a variety of sports during her upbringing, but developed a passion for cheerleading and gymnastics at a young age. Ashley began practicing gymnastics at the New England Gymnastics Training Center (NEGTC) when she was just 3 years old. She competed in gymnastics up to level 9 before deciding to focus on cheerleading. Her cheerleading experience includes participation in middle and high school teams, as well as competing in all-star cheerleading. Additionally, she has coached cheerleading teams.
Ashley will be leading our kids program and bringing her wealth of experience and passion for cheerleading and gymnastics to inspire the next generation of athletes.
Amy Renn
Bootcamp, Yoga & Youth Training
Amy is passionate about wellness. With over 25 years experience working in the wellness and fitness industry she continues to expand her knowledge with continuing education and work experience. In addition to coordinating mtb clinics for A Singletrack Mind, Amy’s foundation is fitness and wellness with an emphasis on functional movement, yoga, outdoor fitness and mindfulness and massage. She is a certified personal and group fitness trainer, yoga instructor, kids yoga instructor, certified outdoor fitness and TRX instructor, with her Masters degree in Kinesiology-sport performance. She is also a certified massage therapists since 1999 and is the co-owner of A Singletrack Mind-mountain bike skills coaching. When she is not coordinating mountain bike skills clinics or working with clients to better their health she is out on the trail running, skiing, biking or exploring the great outdoors with her 2 young daughters Naia and Willow and dogs Pepper and Luna.
Hawley Kobayashi
Yoga Instructor
Hawley has been in Truckee for over 26 years where she has raised her three children with her husband Russell, operated a horse training and riding lesson business and fell in love with yoga. Once the yoga bug hit she was all in ! Completing her first 200 TT locally she quickly decided there must be more and began studying with Jason Cradell and Noah Maze. She has since completed several 300 TT's with Noah, owned and operated a yoga studio and created and facilitated several 200 Yoga Teacher Trainings.
Hawleys love for learning , continual study of all things yoga and passion for teaching shines through in all her yoga offerings. She has definitely cultivated her own style with heavy influences of Iyengar, Ashtanga and Vinyasa. Shers so delighted The Shire literally opened in her backyard and can't wait to practice with you. Hawley will be teaching public classes beginning in May and is also available for private yoga lessons. E-RYT 500 YACEP
Heather Tjalma
Hips-AFLOW Dance Instructor
Heather leaps into the Shire Studio with excitement! She and her family join the Truckee area from San Diego, Ca. Although her original roots are from Wild Wonderful West Virginia.
She comes from a background in theater arts and has been exposed to several genres of dance. Following her passion for movement she combines her favorite dance flavors and choreographs her own class called Hips-Aflow Dance Cardio. Heather gracefully weaves together a variety of traditional West African styles, AfroPop, Hip Hop, Afrobeats, Dancehall, and her own personal fun flare to create a class that Generates Jiva Joy from the inside out!
Heather believes dance is valuable for creative expression, learning for the fun of it, group connection, and the betterment of mental health in all communities. She wants to encourage people of all ages and diverse backgrounds to find their happy place on the dance floor!
Tanya Fuller
Shaman, Hypnotherapist, Reiki Master Teacher, Barre/Yoga/Fitness Instructor
Tanya is the owner of Three Feathers Holistic in Truckee. She guides people traveling on the path of self-mastery with managing their personal energy so they can clear limiting belief patterns, cultivate their intuitive gifts, and expand their awareness.
Tanya’s teaching style focuses on inner harmony through breath, balance, flow, and sacred pause. She infuses humor, reverence, and mind/body/spirit awareness throughout her classes. Tanya finds joy living in the mountains and working with this beautiful community!
Jill Shmitz
U-Jam Dance Instructor
Jill's been dancing almost since she could walk. Studying ballet, jazz, Polynesian and tap from 3 years old into her teens. At the same time she was highly involved in competitive sports and felt that her dance background gave her an advantage with both mobility and timing. After studying theater and political science in college and subsequently building a career in hotel development, her love for dancing never let up. At age 38 and pregnant, she found herself yearning for the tap rhythms of her youth. So she picked up some new shoes, found a class and never looked back. It's never to late to start dancing whether you took a 25 year break, have never danced before or have two left feet; dancing feeds the soul!
Nikki Dean
Yoga Instructor & Transformational Coach
Nikki Dean, E-RYT, has been teaching yoga internationally since 2003, with students ranging from professional athletes to cancer patients. Certified in Aerial, Kripalu, Vinyasa, and Pre/Post-Natal Yoga, Nikki is also a certified Yoga Nidra teacher, a Transformational Coach, a Cancer Exercise Specialist and an Essential Oils Educator. With a mission to help others reduce daily stress, live intentionally and experience true success, she also inspires through motivational speaking and online coaching courses and challenges. After traveling the world and living everywhere from New York City to New Zealand, Nikki loves living in Truckee, CA with her husband, boys, and fur baby, hiking, skiing, paddle boarding, and breathing in the fresh mountain air.
Emily Pruitt
Pilates Instructor
To my fellow fitness enthusiasts, my name is Emily and I couldn’t be more excited to participate in your journey toward a healthy and vibrant lifestyle. My husband, Hayden and I have lived in the Shire for seven years, growing our family in the process with the addition of our daughter, Eden (3) and son, Huxton (1). Aside from operating a successful business in Truckee over the last nine years, I’m passionate about all the outdoor activities this area has to offer. Camping, hiking, skiing, golfing, and beach lounging are at the top of my list. Grateful for it all!
As a longtime fitness fanatic, I’ve done every kind of workout under the sun. My absolute favorite is PILATES! My journey of sharing that passion and love for pilates starts with each of you. My classes will focus on core, stability, balance, strong legs, and using our own body weight to increase overall strength. Our end goal: let’s build confidence in the skin we’re in.
Can’t wait to see you on the mat!
Holly Pyper
Yoga Instructor
Holly grew up as a perfectionist who (spoiler-alert) could not be perfect. Grasping for perfection and control left her feeling anxious and uneasy in school. When she was 15, her dad introduced her to yoga and it changed her life. Her first yoga teacher taught her how to be present and every teacher since has left Holly with equally touching lessons.
Holly’s a Michigander who’s found home in California. She’s a certified yoga instructor and has been teaching yoga for nearly a decade. Holly’s passionate about using yoga as a tool to ground ourselves and get to know our true being so we can find more joy and peace in life. She likes to bring fun into her classes and build a sense of community and belonging.