Personal Training Staff
Certified Personal Trainers
Jennifer Brand
Jennifer Brand
COLLEGE EDUCATION / CERTIFICATIONS
- Bachelor of Science, Exercise Science, Bowling Green State University
- National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), Certified Personal Trainer
- Kettlebell Concepts Level 1 Instructor
- TRX Suspension Training
- Sportsmetrics Certified (ACL injury prevention program)
- American Council on Exercise (ACE), HumanSport Specialist and Partner-Assisted Stretching Certified
- Certified Stick Mobility Coach
SPECIALIZATION
- Improving overall health and well-being for daily demands of life
- Flexibility
- Mobility
- Female Athletes
PERSONAL
I’m a mom to two beautiful and very active boys. I’ve been a trainer at The J since 2008 and have experience working with a wide range of individuals of various fitness levels. Exercise has always been a part of my life, starting at the age of four when I began gymnastics. I have played many sports over the years and love to be active whether it’s here in the gym or doing activities outdoors.
Brandon Colon
Brandon Colon
COLLEGE EDUCATION / CERTIFICATIONS
- Bachelor of Science, Exercise Science, Bowling Green University
- International Sports Science Association (ISSA), Certified Personal Trainer
- TRX Suspension Training
- American Fitness Professionals & Associates (AFPA), Nutrition & Wellness Consultant
- American Red Cross CPR/AED
SPECIALIZATION
- Mid to Long-Distance Running (i.e. track events, 5k, 10k, half and full marathons)
- Exercise Rehab/Functional Strength
- Strength Training for individuals ranging from sport-specific to general muscle
- Building exercises to achieve health benefits
PERSONAL
I was always active in sports as a kid, but watching my father suffer from diabetes made fitness even more of a passion for me. I want to help people live longer to stay active with their loved ones. My goal is to guide individuals inside and outside the gym and to help them make lifestyle changes not just for themselves, but for their family. Our bodies change as we age, so it is my job to help individuals find a program that fits with their goals in life. In my spare time, I enjoy being outside, playing pick-up basketball games, reading to keep up with new fitness trends, going to Cleveland and Ohio State sporting events, as well as spending time with my friends and family.
Kevin Faraci
Kevin Faraci
COLLEGE EDUCATION / CERTIFICATIONS
- National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), Certified Personal Trainer and Weight Loss Specialist
- World Instructor Training School (WITS), Certified Personal Trainer, Nutritional Concepts, Cardio Boxing/Kickboxing
- TRX Suspension Training
- American Council on Exercise (ACE), Small Group Training Certified
- American Red Cross CPR/AED
SPECIALIZATION
- Athletic Training
- Strength Training
- Body Weight Training
- Modified Exercise
- Functional Movement/Training
- Corrective Exercises
- Injury-specific Training
PERSONAL
I like movies, video games and stand-up comedy. I have been training in boxing and Muay Thai kickboxing since 2006. I like to challenge myself physically, and I’m always willing to try new things. I believe keeping a positive outlook and frame of mind will help everyone reach their fitness goals because having a strong mind is the foundation for a strong body.
Thomas Gassaway
Thomas Gassaway
COLLEGE EDUCATION / CERTIFICATIONS
- Associates of Applied Science Sport & Exercise Studies – Cuyahoga Community College
- Bachelor of Sciencei n Exercise Science – Cleveland State University
- National Council on Strength and Fitness (NCSF-CT) Certified Personal Trainer
SPECIALIZATION
- Mobility
PERSONAL
My fitness journey began in a grungy, worn-down basement. The environment was not very exercise conducive. I was battling body image issues that affected my ability to be confident with others in public and myself in private. It became clear that I needed to make a change, but motivation takes anyone only so far. In my practice, I emphasize cultivating a positive connection with exercise and physical activity to encourage sustainable, long-term behavioral shifts. A person who loves to walk will walk farther than the person told to walk.
Michael Gordon
Michael Gordon
CERTIFICATIONS
- International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) Certified Master Trainer
SPECIALIZATION
- Strength and Conditioning Training
- Senior Fitness Specialist
- Corrective Exercise Specialist
- Sports Nutrition Management
- Genetic (DNA) Based Program Designer
PERSONAL
My love and passion for fitness, strength training and overall health and wellness inspired me to become a Certified Master Trainer. I have deep expertise in the areas of senior fitness, corrective exercise, strength training and fitness and nutrition. I create tailored fitness programs for seniors, middle-aged individuals, athletes, youth and those with chronic conditions and physical limitations. I have a proven track record of success developing fitness and wellness programs for clients of all ages, ethnicities and physical conditioning. The fitness programs that I develop are structured to help my clients build strength, gain lean muscles and improve balance and mobility. I enjoy helping others exceed their fitness goals. My goal is to deliver an exceptional wellness experience to my clients and help them live longer more vibrant lives.
Gannon Graf
Gannon Graf
COLLEGE EDUCATION/ CERTIFICATIONS
- Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science — Ohio Dominican University
- Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA)
- Hyperice Recovery Specialist — Hyperice
- Continuing Education: Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) Program — Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C), In Progress
SPECIALIZATIONS
- Athletic Performance & Speed Training
- Injury Prevention & Recovery
- Strength & Hypertrophy
- Sport-Specific Conditioning
- Explosiveness & Power
- Stability & Balance
PERSONAL
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As a former athlete who played college soccer (goalkeeper) and football (kicker), and competed nationally in short-track speedskating, sports have always been my world. That background, combined with my Exercise Science degree, CSCS certification, and ongoing OTA studies, gives me a real-world understanding of the body, how to recover from injuries, and what it takes to perform.
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As a personal trainer, I bring that experience into my coaching, including goalkeeper and speedskating coaching. Outside of training, I love to golf, sail, camp, and travel. Whether you’re an athlete trying to level up or just want to feel and move better, my goal is to keep things simple, safe, and effective to help you reach your goals.
Jessica Monahan
Jessica Monahan
COLLEGE EDUCATION/CERTIFICATIONS
- Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, Nutrition, and Health, Miami University
- NASM Certified Personal Trainer
- Minor in Nutrition, Miami University
- NASM/AFAA CPR/AED Certified
SPECIALIZATION
- Flexibility/Mobility
- Female Athletes
- Strength Training
- Body Weight Training
- Functional Movement
- Youth Training
- Training Runners
PERSONAL
My passion for fitness comes from playing sports growing up and maintaining an active lifestyle. I started thinking about fitness as a career in high school when I ran track and as a coxswain for the Miami University Rowing Club. I love watching sports and studying how the body performs in those environments. As a personal trainer, I want to help my clients move better, get stronger, and find a love for exercise. With my additional interest in nutrition, I enjoy helping people learn how to fuel their bodies to support their fitness goals.
DeAnte Robbins
DeAnte Robbins
COLLEGE EDUCATION/CERTIFICATIONS
- National Academy of Sports Medicine Certified Personal Trainer
- American Red Cross CPR/AED & First Aid
- American Red Cross Certified Lifeguard
SPECIALIZATIONS
- Strength training
- Hypertrophy (muscle building)
- Bodyweight training
- Body recomposition
PERSONAL
I’ve always been a sports fan and an overall athlete, with swimming being my strongest sport. My passion for fitness grew after high school, fueled by my own personal transformation. Experiencing the changes I could achieve firsthand inspired me to help others do the same. I love guiding people toward their ideal body through smarter fitness and nutrition habits. No matter my schedule, you’ll find me in the gym 3-4 days a week, setting new goals and helping clients reach theirs. In my free time, I enjoy traveling, spending time with family, and playing video games
Steve Slanoc
Steve Slanoc
COLLEGE EDUCATION / CERTIFICATIONS
- Bachelor of Science, Exercise Science, Kent State University
- Licensed Physical Therapy Assistant
- National Strength and Conditioning (NSCA)
- Certified Personal Trainer
- American Heart Association CPR/AED
SPECIALIZATION
- Strength Training
- Exercise Rehab
- Nutrition/Weight Management
- Orthopedic Injury
PERSONAL
I am a personal trainer looking to make a positive impact on people’s lives. I possess a combination of an extensive educational background with a strong enthusiasm for health and fitness. I am eager to work with clients of all ages to achieve their desired goals. I have experience working with collegiate athletes in the strength and conditioning sector. I also have experience working with primarily older adults
in the physical therapy field during my time as a PTA. I believe that the majority of people will gain the best results using simple, proven training principles. I want to educate my clients on how to not only achieve their goals but how to maintain them over time. All that I ask from my clients is that they show up with a positive attitude.
Dana Vince
Dana Vince
COLLEGE EDUCATION / CERTIFICATIONS
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M.Ed Exercise Science
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M.S. Sport Management
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B.S.Ed Physical Education
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ISSA Elite Fitness Trainer
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ISSA Specialist in Strength and Conditioning
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ISSA Youth Fitness Trainer and Coach
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ISSA Nutritional Coach
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CPR/AED Certified
SPECIALIZATION
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Strength Training
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Muscle Development
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Youth Fitness
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Bodybuilding/Physique Development
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Mobility
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Functional Fitness
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Weight Loss/Gain
PERSONAL
I am an outgoing, energetic, and passionate fitness professional who has been training clients for 15 years. As a former competitive bodybuilder, I have a strong understanding of strength training, muscle development, and the dedication it takes to achieve results. My background in coaching upper-level gymnasts has taught me the importance of discipline, teamwork, patience, and building confidence in others. I believe fitness is about more than physical appearance; it is about improving overall health, building self-confidence, and creating a positive lifestyle. My goal is to inspire others to believe in themselves, stay consistent, and discover how strong and capable they can be. I have one daughter, and I enjoy spending my spare time reading, anything involving sports.
Brian Wertman
Brian Wertman
COLLEGE EDUCATION/CERTIFICATIONS
- Certified Personal Trainer through the National Personal Training Institute (NPTI) (500 hours of practical)
- Certified Yoga Instructor through Yoga Alliance (200HR YTT)
- CPR through The American Heart Association
SPECIALIZATION
- Weight Loss and Weight Loss Management
- Strength and Conditioning
- One-on-one Boxing and Kickboxing Instruction
- Mid to Long Distance Running
- Mobility and Flexibility
- Corrective and Rehab Exercises
PERSONAL
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I love passing down the knowledge that I have gained from being an athlete and living a healthy lifestyle my entire life. Wrestling in middle school, high school, and at Cleveland State University led me to become the head wrestling coach at Wickliffe High School. Later, I trained in Muay Thai kickboxing, got into trail running, and even competed in Spartan and Savage races.
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Prior to coming to the Mandel JCC, I was a manager at a gym. I taught boxing, kickboxing, sculpting, boot camps, TRX, kettlebells, and yoga. I have put on running clinics, positive mindset seminars, and breathing and meditation clinics. I am super excited to be part of this community and share my knowledge to my clients.
Monette Williams
Monette Williams
COLLEGE EDUCATION / CERTIFICATIONS
- B.S. in Health Sciences, Fairmont State University
- NASM Certified Personal Trainer
SPECIALIZATION
- Corrective Exercise
- Women’s Fitness
- TRX Suspension Training
- Triathlon Coach ages youth to seniors
- Masters Swim Coach
- Swim, bike, and run coaching
PERSONAL
With more than 25 years of experience in personal training and triathlon coaching, I bring a passion for helping people of all ages and fitness levels achieve their goals. I began my career in nutrition as a dietetic technician at the Duke Diet and Fitness Center, followed by managing Fleet Feet Sports in Carrboro, North Carolina. Before moving to Cleveland, I worked at the UNC Wellness Centers, helping clients improve their overall fitness, train for specific sports, and return to activity following cardiac events, strokes, and injuries. I also spent 20 years coaching youth and adult triathlon clubs and a master’s swim program.
A former collegiate athlete in swimming, tennis, and golf, I discovered triathlon after graduation and have competed in swimming, cycling, running, and triathlons ranging from sprint to full Ironman distances.
I enjoy running, swimming, hiking, cooking, reading, and spending time with my husband and son.
Personal Training Leadership
Rich Zatta
Director of Fitness
216-593-6298