Laura Yell - Owner/Instructor C.Y.T 200
As a lifelong dancer, movement has always been an integral part of my life. I was first introduced to yoga in 2005, while pursuing my B.A. in dance and studied a variety of styles before finding my true passion after stepping into my first Hot Vinyasa Class. I immediately felt at home on the mat and fell in love with the dynamic flow, the heat, and grace of the practice. I completed my yoga teacher training in 2007 and since that time I have had the opportunity to lead more than 2000 classes. I am so grateful to all the teachers and students that inspired me along my journey. I am a true believer in the powerful benefits of yoga and am passionate about sharing its amazing transformative effects with everyone.
Karly O' Leary - Instructor C.Y.T. 200
After my first heated Vinyasa flow class in 2009, I became addicted. It was love at first asana! After running and playing high impact sports most of my life, yoga was like the missing secret ingredient. My education in Radiology fulfills my interests in studying the human body and its function. But I find my true passion in the mind-body consciousness of yoga. I completed my 200-hour certification course at Hot House Yoga in Iowa City, April of 2012. My two favorite aspects of yoga are finding happiness in the present moment and using breath with synchronized movement to gain strength and flexibility. I'm very eager to inspire others in their journey to a healthy body, strong mind and finding inner peace.
Kate Hawthorne - Instructor R.Y.T. 200
I started lightly practicing yoga several years ago but in early 2013 felt a call to really explore the full practice. My life completely changed after my first heated vinyasa class; I knew I had found my passion. The physical yoga practice challenged me in ways I had never experienced and slowly started to influence other areas of my life. It wasn't long before yoga became completely interwoven in all areas of my life. I was shocked to find how strong the mind-body connection truly is and how the mind influences what the body is capable of. Right away my physical and mental strength grew to a level I never thought possible. I completed my 200hr certification under Debbie Williamson of Wild Abundant Life in June 2014 and also certified as a Yoga Personal Trainer and Yoga Body Bootcamp Basic Trainer. My classes are ever changing and evolving and I strive to bring awareness to the mind-body connection through breath work and intention setting. I hope to inspire everyone to find their passion on and off the mat.
Susie Wienke - Instructor C.Y.T. 200
I have been an exercise enthusiast since I was a child. By practicing yoga I have discovered the joy and benefits of linking breath, mind and body to create an amazing life. My classes are a mix of inspiration, challenge and support. Get ready to take chances, explore the unknown and grow your best self. You will leave class feeling strong, centered and relaxed. I believe that if you exercise your mind and body, your soul will be at peace. I spend my free time playing, biking and traveling with my husband and two kids.
Jackie Kerkman - Instructor E.R.Y.T. 500
As a runner and cycling addict, I began practicing yoga with the goal of becoming more flexible to improve my athletic performance. But I quickly recognize that yoga was not just about static stretching. The power of breath, movement with intention, strength and alignment pulled me into exploring and expanding my yoga practice. I began incorporating yoga poses into my practice as physical therapist and saw the positive responses in my patients both physically and mentally. I pursued my RYT-200 hour teaching certification so that I could continue to expand my passion of empowering people to live healthy, happy lives. I love challenging students to find their own edge and release their unique inner power through powerful, purposeful and dynamic classes.
Sarah Dosmann - Instructor R.Y.T. 200
“All I really need to know I learned in yoga class”
Kindergarten teacher by day, I bring a playful element to my teaching and enjoy guiding students to their own “aha” moments. I began a dedicated practice in 2010 and have since become certified in children, family, and power yoga. My own practice spans ariel, ashtanga, dance, acro, and SUP yoga. I am always seeking creative ways to infuse class and bind a community. There has never been a yoga class I’ve attended where I haven’t learned something new and had a chance to explore how I hold my yoga on and off the mat. I hope to convey that same intuitive and refreshing feeling to all my students.
Becca Kaja- Instructor C.Y.T. 200
Growing up I was involved in dance, gymnastics, cheerleading, and lacrosse; being active was an essential part of my life! When I went to college, I searched for a way to sweat and still have fun, and that is when I found yoga. I started practicing in 2012, and in 2013 I got certified in Yoga Sculpt. I loved teaching so much, but I had a drive to learn more about yoga and how to make it accessible to a range of people. In 2015, I got certified in prenatal yoga, and then took a 200 hour training in vinyasa/power yoga. I taught yoga in Minneapolis, MN for two years until I relocated to Milwaukee. I hope to make yoga accessible and worthwhile for as many people as possible! Aside from teaching yoga, I am a third grade teacher at Saint Sebastian Parish School.
Becca Kaja- Instructor C.Y.T. 200
Growing up I was involved in dance, gymnastics, cheerleading, and lacrosse; being active was an essential part of my life! When I went to college, I searched for a way to sweat and still have fun, and that is when I found yoga. I started practicing in 2012, and in 2013 I got certified in Yoga Sculpt. I loved teaching so much, but I had a drive to learn more about yoga and how to make it accessible to a range of people. In 2015, I got certified in prenatal yoga, and then took a 200 hour training in vinyasa/power yoga. I taught yoga in Minneapolis, MN for two years until I relocated to Milwaukee. I hope to make yoga accessible and worthwhile for as many people as possible! Aside from teaching yoga, I am a third grade teacher at Saint Sebastian Parish School.
Margee Mauney - Instructor C.Y.T. 200
I’ve always loved being active, but it wasn’t until my quest for confidence and lower stress levels during my college years that I discovered my love for yoga. I was instantly hooked on power yoga after my first class, because I fell in love with the energy bouncing around the studio and the way every student left feeling empowered. After obtaining a BA in Public Relations, I immediately finished my 200 hour yoga instructor training with Wild Abundant Life. My other joys include singing, cooking, creating, and watching animal videos on Facebook. I like my yoga classes to combine intensity and positivity, and I hope to inspire people of all walks of life to be confident in themselves physically and emotionally through yoga.
Shifra Rothenberg - Instructor C.Y.T. 200
For me, yoga is a moving meditation, it gifts me a space to explore my body and mind. I discovered the complexity and cosmic energy of yoga more than a decade ago, and quickly learned how my yoga practice weaves through the physical and mental space of everyday life. I decided to become a yoga instructor to strengthen my practice as a student and I love teaching and sharing my energy. I received my 200 hr teacher training from the Satya School led by Kate Hawthorne. The experience was life changing and humbling. As a yoga instructor, I hope to bring an ease of breath and movement to my students while staying grounded and welcoming space and creativity onto their mat. By day you can find me as a dental assistant, and in my free time I love spending time with my dogs, writing, crafting and finding hidden gems in Milwaukee.
Shifra Rothenberg - Instructor C.Y.T. 200
For me, yoga is a moving meditation, it gifts me a space to explore my body and mind. I discovered the complexity and cosmic energy of yoga more than a decade ago, and quickly learned how my yoga practice weaves through the physical and mental space of everyday life. I decided to become a yoga instructor to strengthen my practice as a student and I love teaching and sharing my energy. I received my 200 hr teacher training from the Satya School led by Kate Hawthorne. The experience was life changing and humbling. As a yoga instructor, I hope to bring an ease of breath and movement to my students while staying grounded and welcoming space and creativity onto their mat. By day you can find me as a dental assistant, and in my free time I love spending time with my dogs, writing, crafting and finding hidden gems in Milwaukee.
Alexa Deacon- Instructor E.R.Y.T. 200 & R.Y.T. 500
I began practicing yoga after I found myself in a job that required me to sit for extended periods of time. The tension in my shoulders, neck, and back told me I needed yoga before my mind did. As an athletic and competitive person, I was initially drawn to the physical challenge. About a year into my practice I started to tap into the mind-body connection. Not only did this new-found connection transform my yoga practice, but I found myself, my purpose, and the power of my breath. Yoga has brought me to myself time and time again. I completed my 200 hour CYT at CorePower Yoga in December 2017. My classes encourage students to find their breath, build strength, and cultivate community.
Alexa Deacon- Instructor E.R.Y.T. 200 & R.Y.T. 500
I began practicing yoga after I found myself in a job that required me to sit for extended periods of time. The tension in my shoulders, neck, and back told me I needed yoga before my mind did. As an athletic and competitive person, I was initially drawn to the physical challenge. About a year into my practice I started to tap into the mind-body connection. Not only did this new-found connection transform my yoga practice, but I found myself, my purpose, and the power of my breath. Yoga has brought me to myself time and time again. I completed my 200 hour CYT at CorePower Yoga in December 2017. My classes encourage students to find their breath, build strength, and cultivate community.
Lauren Bolinski - Instructor C.Y.T. 200
Most of the valued aspects of my life have not come to me on a direct and simple journey, and my path to yoga is no different. In 2009, after years of lightly practicing yoga, I enrolled in a college course to build a stronger foundation. However, it wasn’t until 2013 when I first started practicing at Milwaukee Power Yoga that my practice began to deepen. Yoga supported me through loss, embraced and guided me in my own personal growth, and assured that I always housed a safe place within me, no matter the circumstances that life places me in. Because of this, I sought my 200 hour yoga certification in 2019. Through my teaching, I seek to support yogis in their own unique paths that yoga takes them on and hold an open and compassionate space for their individual practices. Beyond teaching yoga, I dedicate my life’s work to education, learning alongside young people to better navigate the world we live in; I also enjoy spending time with my family, reading, writing, being active and in nature, exploring, and challenging myself.
Haley Hinze - Instructor C.Y.T. 200
I committed to my yoga practice after my first semester of law school. I was struggling with a lot of anxiety and yoga helped me find peace and gratitude. I love yoga because I have learned so much about myself through my practice. Yoga teaches you to accept and love yourself as you are in this moment. I received my 200 hour certification in May of 2019 from Satya Life School of Yoga. I hope to create a space where my students can connect with themselves and their breath. I strive to create fun and purposeful flow sequences where my students can continue to learn and grow. Music is one of my many passions and I believe a great playlist can enhance a student's experience. I am inspired by the community MPY offers and love to connect with my students on and off the mat.
Kathleen Snider - Instructor C.Y.T. 200
When I was younger, I tried just about every sport I could and while I embraced being part of a team and spending time in the fresh air, the movement never felt quite right in my body. Years later, I decided to take a yoga class on a whim as a college student and fell in love with the challenging sequences, purposeful transitions, and breath fueled community. Six years and countless classes later, I decided to further my own practice and obtained a 200 hour certification through Satya Life Yoga School in November 2021. As a teacher, I hope to create a safe space for all students to release tension, challenge themselves, and create community through breath and movement, from start to savasana.
Kathleen Snider - Instructor C.Y.T. 200
When I was younger, I tried just about every sport I could and while I embraced being part of a team and spending time in the fresh air, the movement never felt quite right in my body. Years later, I decided to take a yoga class on a whim as a college student and fell in love with the challenging sequences, purposeful transitions, and breath fueled community. Six years and countless classes later, I decided to further my own practice and obtained a 200 hour certification through Satya Life Yoga School in November 2021. As a teacher, I hope to create a safe space for all students to release tension, challenge themselves, and create community through breath and movement, from start to savasana.
Laura Jelich- Instructor C.Y.T. 200
What I love about yoga is the opportunity it presents, every practice, to be completely present with my breath & fully engaged in my whole body, channeling all my energy and focus into each asana. As a lifelong athlete, outdoor enthusiast, restless adventurer and someone who is always on the move with endless energy to "do", I often struggle to just "be". Yoga has helped me grow in this area, on & off the mat, teaching me to be aware of and notice myself with curiosity and non-judgement, to listen to my body and the wisdom it knows, & to come back to the present moment and what's in front of me when I feel myself spiraling. I am a strong believer in continuous learning, reflection, and readjusting, & I was eager to learn more about the holistic benefits of and uses for yoga. But my real motivation for becoming R.Y.T. 200 certified in 2020, was because I want to safely create the space for others that yoga has given to me through moving meditation. I hope when you come to my class you feel at ease, supported, and challenged in your practice, so that you are fully free to make the time your own, whatever you may need that day - a break, a reboot, a check in, or just some good energy!
What I love about yoga is the opportunity it presents, every practice, to be completely present with my breath & fully engaged in my whole body, channeling all my energy and focus into each asana. As a lifelong athlete, outdoor enthusiast, restless adventurer and someone who is always on the move with endless energy to "do", I often struggle to just "be". Yoga has helped me grow in this area, on & off the mat, teaching me to be aware of and notice myself with curiosity and non-judgement, to listen to my body and the wisdom it knows, & to come back to the present moment and what's in front of me when I feel myself spiraling. I am a strong believer in continuous learning, reflection, and readjusting, & I was eager to learn more about the holistic benefits of and uses for yoga. But my real motivation for becoming R.Y.T. 200 certified in 2020, was because I want to safely create the space for others that yoga has given to me through moving meditation. I hope when you come to my class you feel at ease, supported, and challenged in your practice, so that you are fully free to make the time your own, whatever you may need that day - a break, a reboot, a check in, or just some good energy!
Lindsay Richter- Instructor C.Y.T. 200
Growing up I was always intrigued by the idea of yoga. It was not, however, until I took my first vinyasa flow class that I experienced the true power of a yoga practice. I am passionate now about sharing this power with others. Yoga provided me with the tools to cultivate a mind body connection. This connection became fundamental to my own healing, growth, and teaching. I received my 200hr CYT in 2014 and spent 6+ years teaching throughout the city of Chicago. I have led Teacher Trainings, workshops, and continuing education seminars. I received my 95hr Children’s CYT in 2017 and then spent 3 years teaching in various Chicago public schools. My goal is for my classes to meet you where you are and provide you with what you need - as this is always changing. I hope my classes are an opportunity to move your body, quiet your mind, and connect with your heart. I love to being intentional movement together with breathwork to create an energetic shift. I hope to foster a dynamic yet lighthearted and welcoming experience for all.
Kat Charles- Instructor C.Y.T. 200
My first yoga class was at the YMCA in Appleton, WI, when I was 8. We were on a Girls Scout field trip, and I remember settling into Savasana for the first time and thinking, “Oh, yeah. This is nice.” I continued to practice throughout the years with a more prominent focus on flexibility as I explored dance as a creative outlet. In my early twenties, I began to dedicate more time to my asana practice in and out of the studio and study yogic philosophy. Once I found I could find physical, mental, and emotional restoration through this practice, I knew that it was something I wanted to share with others. I received my 200-YTT certificate in Scottsdale, Arizona, in 2019, where I taught before moving back to Milwaukee. As a teacher, I aim to create a space of radical kindness, encouragement, and healing through joy, breath, and expression.
Kat Charles- Instructor C.Y.T. 200
My first yoga class was at the YMCA in Appleton, WI, when I was 8. We were on a Girls Scout field trip, and I remember settling into Savasana for the first time and thinking, “Oh, yeah. This is nice.” I continued to practice throughout the years with a more prominent focus on flexibility as I explored dance as a creative outlet. In my early twenties, I began to dedicate more time to my asana practice in and out of the studio and study yogic philosophy. Once I found I could find physical, mental, and emotional restoration through this practice, I knew that it was something I wanted to share with others. I received my 200-YTT certificate in Scottsdale, Arizona, in 2019, where I taught before moving back to Milwaukee. As a teacher, I aim to create a space of radical kindness, encouragement, and healing through joy, breath, and expression.
Catherine Alles - Instructor C.Y.T. 200
I first started practicing hot yoga in 2018 because I loved how the heat added an intensity to the poses. My favorite thing about yoga is how personal it is: your journey is your own and doesn’t need to be compared or look like anyone else's. I love how you can see your practice evolve over time as you build strength, experiment with balance, and focus on your breath. I received my 200-hour training in November 2021 from Sataya School of Life Yoga at Milwaukee Power Yoga. I grew up in Milwaukee, WI and am currently a student at Marquette Law School. I enjoy cooking, hiking, biking, and trying new things. In my classes, I hope to encourage my students to recognize growth in their practice and to provide a space for them to be gentle with themselves.
Jo Gassner - Instructor R.Y.T. 500
I have been practicing yoga for most of my lifetime. It has always brought purpose, strength, challenges, and meaning into my life. Using all eight limbs of yoga, I like to connect to communities and individuals with a complete approach to health and wellness. I strongly believe that compassion and care-taking of one's self is a direct line to compassion and care-taking of others. My "resume" includes 25 years of teaching yoga, strength training, personal training, and indoor cycling. I have completed two 200 hour RYT trainings and one 500 hour RYT, and am a YACEP with Yoga Alliance. My mission is to never stop exploring, evolving, or changing, trying to set an example for others to do the same. When we play, we explore. When we explore, we grow.
Amanda Sippel - Instructor C.Y.T. 200
I discovered the transformative power of yoga in my late twenties. Initially, I turned to yoga as another way to exercise and to enhance flexibility, but it quickly became much more than just a physical practice. Yoga has become an integral part of my daily routine, bringing balance, mindfulness, and joy into my life. Through breath work and mediation, I’ve learned to quiet my mind and navigate life’s challenges with a little bit more grace. Since 2016, I’ve been practicing at MPY, where the amazing instructors and supportive community have nurtured my practice. In 2024, I completed my 200-hour yoga teacher training under Alexa Deacon and Jackie Kerkman at Movewell Yoga School. This immersive experience not only sparked personal growth but also ignited a passion for sharing yoga with others.
Amanda Sippel - Instructor C.Y.T. 200
I discovered the transformative power of yoga in my late twenties. Initially, I turned to yoga as another way to exercise and to enhance flexibility, but it quickly became much more than just a physical practice. Yoga has become an integral part of my daily routine, bringing balance, mindfulness, and joy into my life. Through breath work and mediation, I’ve learned to quiet my mind and navigate life’s challenges with a little bit more grace. Since 2016, I’ve been practicing at MPY, where the amazing instructors and supportive community have nurtured my practice. In 2024, I completed my 200-hour yoga teacher training under Alexa Deacon and Jackie Kerkman at Movewell Yoga School. This immersive experience not only sparked personal growth but also ignited a passion for sharing yoga with others.
Micaela Brand- Instructor C.Y.T. 200
Growing up dancing, playing soccer, and running track, I initially started practicing yoga for physical activity to supplement other workouts. I took my first heated vinyasa class in 2017 and immediately knew it was something I wanted to explore further. The feeling I had during and after that first class was indescribable as if I could accomplish anything! My yoga practice has helped me appreciate life's joyful moments more fully, and it has helped guide me through life's challenges and obstacles. I completed my 200-hour yoga teacher training in April 2024 through Movewell Yoga School in Milwaukee. One of my favorite parts of my yoga asana practice is challenging my physical body through movement to build strength and flexibility. I am full of gratitude and excitement to begin my yoga teaching journey and further my practice at MPY!
Micaela Brand- Instructor C.Y.T. 200
Growing up dancing, playing soccer, and running track, I initially started practicing yoga for physical activity to supplement other workouts. I took my first heated vinyasa class in 2017 and immediately knew it was something I wanted to explore further. The feeling I had during and after that first class was indescribable as if I could accomplish anything! My yoga practice has helped me appreciate life's joyful moments more fully, and it has helped guide me through life's challenges and obstacles. I completed my 200-hour yoga teacher training in April 2024 through Movewell Yoga School in Milwaukee. One of my favorite parts of my yoga asana practice is challenging my physical body through movement to build strength and flexibility. I am full of gratitude and excitement to begin my yoga teaching journey and further my practice at MPY!
Grace Oddis - Instructor C.Y.T. 200
I started practicing yoga in 2019 after beginning college at UW- Milwaukee. Yoga was my favorite stress reliever and was an integral part in completing my engineering degree! The practice has stayed apart of my routine after college to continue to support my mental health and physical wellbeing. I completed my 200 hour yoga teacher training at Movewell Yoga School in April, 2024! My goal is to teach empowering classes where students can find a bit of a reset and recharge through their own personal practice.
Grace Oddis - Instructor C.Y.T. 200
I started practicing yoga in 2019 after beginning college at UW- Milwaukee. Yoga was my favorite stress reliever and was an integral part in completing my engineering degree! The practice has stayed apart of my routine after college to continue to support my mental health and physical wellbeing. I completed my 200 hour yoga teacher training at Movewell Yoga School in April, 2024! My goal is to teach empowering classes where students can find a bit of a reset and recharge through their own personal practice.
Denise Pilz - Instructor C.Y.T. 200
I began practicing yoga about 10 years ago when I realized my body needed something other than high intensity cardio and weight training. After my first hot yoga class, I knew I found what I needed and that yoga was going to become an important part of my life. Yoga has offered many benefits for me both physically and mentally and as a teacher, I am honored to be able to share those benefits with others. I completed my 200 hour yoga teacher training through Movewell Yoga School at Milwaukee Power Yoga. This training further enhanced my appreciation for the connection between
mind and body and how important that connection can be both on and off the mat. My goal as a teacher is to create classes that are accessible to everyone while also offering the space for students to explore if they want more. Outside of yoga, you will find me on my bicycle, which is my second favorite way to move.
Denise Pilz - Instructor C.Y.T. 200
I began practicing yoga about 10 years ago when I realized my body needed something other than high intensity cardio and weight training. After my first hot yoga class, I knew I found what I needed and that yoga was going to become an important part of my life. Yoga has offered many benefits for me both physically and mentally and as a teacher, I am honored to be able to share those benefits with others. I completed my 200 hour yoga teacher training through Movewell Yoga School at Milwaukee Power Yoga. This training further enhanced my appreciation for the connection between
mind and body and how important that connection can be both on and off the mat. My goal as a teacher is to create classes that are accessible to everyone while also offering the space for students to explore if they want more. Outside of yoga, you will find me on my bicycle, which is my second favorite way to move.