Melinda teaches because she wants to give back to the community that helped shape her so deeply in motherhood — and to be part of creating that same support for other women. She has a huge heart for FIT4MOM Louisville and believes this community is more than fitness… it’s a lifeline, a place to be seen, and a place to grow into yourself again.

Originally from Northeast Ohio (after moving around a bit growing up), Louisville is the first city Melinda chose as an adult — and the place that has always felt most like home. She lived in Louisville for 10 years before relocating to Knoxville, Tennessee for work, and she’s now back in Kentucky (this time in Central Kentucky!) and so happy to be in the Bluegrass again.

Melinda is married to her husband Jonathan (together for 12+ years), and they have two children — Benedict and Vera — plus two cats she lovingly insists were part of the “package deal.”

Outside of teaching, Melinda is the Director of Advising for the College of Music at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and previously worked in theatre education outreach through Walden Theatre/Commonwealth Theatre Center. She’s self-assured, grounded, and deeply thoughtful — someone who knows herself well and encourages others to do the same.

Melinda found FIT4MOM Louisville during the foggy postpartum season, joining the Facebook group for support before she even realized there were workouts. FIT4MOM helped her feel less alone, reconnect with herself outside of motherhood, and experience what it means to be part of a community of women who truly get it. She now leads our virtual Stoller (less) Barre classes, bringing a mix of encouragement and smart movement to every session.

In class, you can expect a supportive pace, a low-impact option, and reminders that strength isn’t just pushing hard — it’s also listening to your body and honoring what you need that day.