Staff
Julie
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Monica
Monica discovered Pilates during her recovery from breast cancer surgery, using it as part of her post-op therapy. She was immediately captivated by the practice and has been passionate about it ever since.
As an instructor, Monica strives to not only teach the physical benefits of Pilates, but also to inspire a deeper appreciation for the joy of learning and growth over time. In the studio, she emphasizes proper form, ensuring that each client gets the maximum benefit from every exercise. At the same time, she fosters a welcoming and lighthearted community where clients can feel supported and encouraged throughout their journey.
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Monica
Melissa
Melissa has always been passionate about fitness and health. Her love for Pilates began immediately after her first class in 2003, and she has been hooked ever since. She enjoys all styles of Pilates and is enthusiastic about every piece of equipment, believing it to be the most inclusive form of exercise. To her, Pilates is not only effective but also a practice that allows individuals to focus on being present, making it the ultimate stress reliever.
Her deep passion for Pilates inspired her to share it with others. She completed a comprehensive 600-hour advanced training course at Studio 8 and has gained extensive experience working with master trainers from a variety of Pilates disciplines. Melissa aims to keep her clients engaged and excited during every session, often incorporating her TRX training and other fitness modalities into her sessions to keep things fresh.
Outside of the studio, Melissa enjoys spending time with her husband, dogs, and parents, and loves being outdoors. She’s always on the lookout for her next adventure, whether it’s exploring a new National Park, traveling to a new country, or seeking out unique animal encounters. Her adventurous spirit has led her to experiences like visiting the Great Wall of China, skydiving, and swimming with dolphins. A proud graduate of UNC-Chapel Hill, Melissa believes life is meant to be lived to the fullest.
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Melissa
Leah
Leah brings a wealth of experience, compassion, and enthusiasm to her role as an apprentice Pilates teacher at Pilates at Studio 8. With over 20 years immersed in the fitness world, she has developed a deep understanding of how movement and wellness transforms lives. Her journey into Pilates reflects her lifelong passion for helping others achieve their best, both physically and mentally.As a licensed speech therapist with experience at UNC hospitals as well as travel-contract hospital work, Leah has honed her skills in listening, communication, and personalized care, assisting an individual in discovering and increasing their strengths—qualities she now brings to her Pilates teaching. Her ability to connect with clients, understand their needs, and encourage them through challenges makes her a natural teacher.Leah is also deeply committed to creating a healthy, balanced lifestyle. From her work with Shaklee, promoting all-natural, green products that promote your health and wellness, to her dedication to her family, she exemplifies care and commitment in all areas of her life. Together with her husband, Ramsay MacMillan, a seasoned personal and group trainer known for his positive mindset, they form a dynamic duo focused on wellness and community.Originally from Cedar Falls, Iowa, Leah radiates Midwest warmth and friendliness. Her Jumpboard classes combine energy, precision, and fun, offering clients a unique way to strengthen and tone while enjoying the low-impact benefits of Pilates.Whether you’re new to Pilates or looking to enhance your practice, Leah is here to guide and inspire you on your fitness journey. Join her at Pilates at Studio 8 and experience her infectious passion for movement, wellness, and helping others thrive!
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Leah
Angela
Angela has been involved in movement and theater arts for more than 25 years. She holds a BFA in Theater from University of Minnesota, and is a certified PMA Pilates, GYROTONIC® level 2 , 500 hr Yoga Alliance teacher. She is a certified Spacial Dynamics Movement Therapy Practitioner. Additionally, she has certifications in Tibetian Yoga, Thai Yoga Therapy, Myofascial Release Techniques and Integrated Energy Therapy. She is an ambassador for American Bone Health, specializing in bone safe pilates, yoga and movement exercises for osteoporosis. She has studied with many movement and spiritual Elders, including Pilates Elders Ron Fletcher and Mary Bowen. Gyrotonic founder Juliu Horvath and Sampoorna Yoga founder Yogi Hari. Indigenous Elders: Lakota Chief Harry Charger (WaAnata,), Cree Elder and nurse Lyna Hart, Choctaw Healer Sequoyah TrueBlood, and Abuela Tonalmitl in Mexico. Tibetan Elders tulku dzochen Master Namki Norabu, and Her Eminence Sakya Jetsun Kushok Rimpoche. Angela ‘s philosophy is that joyful living can be achieved by developing ones conscious awareness combined with a daily mind/body practice. She believes that the mindful practices of Pilates, Gyrotonic, and Yoga will help decrease stress and bring a sense of harmony, joy, and gratitude. Angela draws from this extensive and varied background to create individual movement programs that encourage her clients to make and meet their own personal goals for holistic well-being.
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Angela
Shiloh
Shiloh is the friendly and welcoming face behind the administrative operations at Pilates at Studio 8. With over 15 years of experience in office administration, Shiloh brings her expertise from industries as diverse as real estate and men’s and women’s fashion to her role at the studio.
Shiloh excels in assisting clients with scheduling, membership arrangements, and class bookings, ensuring a seamless experience for everyone. Her strong problem-solving skills and proficiency with software make her an invaluable part of the team, handling every detail with efficiency and care.
Shiloh’s background in theater, including training in movement and singing, gives her a unique appreciation for the art of Pilates and the joy it brings to clients. Known for her happy, charming, and easygoing personality, she fosters a welcoming atmosphere for everyone who connects with the studio.
When she’s not assisting clients, Shiloh enjoys exploring creative pursuits and staying connected with her love for the performing arts.
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