Meet the FXB Waukee Team
Meet the incredible trainers and motivators behind your new transformation.
get started with a free class!
Meet the incredible instructors and motivators behind your new transformation.
Train with the best
Your fxb team
Alyssa
HEAD COACH
Becoming an instructor, and assistant head coach, after 2 years of being a dedicated member of FXB Waukee was a huge leap out of my comfort zone, but also a way to boost my confidence. I’m still shy and reserved off the mat, but something magical happens when I put on that mic and it’s like a switch flips! I’ve learned from some incredible instructors along the way, who pushed me to my full potential, so to be able to do the same for others every day is the greatest feeling and also continues to push me to be my best. Just remember that YES YOU CAN!
Becoming an instructor, and assistant head coach, after 2 years of being a dedicated member of FXB Waukee was a huge leap out of my comfort zone, but also a way to boost my confidence. I’m still shy and reserved off the mat, but something magical happens when I put on that mic and it’s like a switch flips! I’ve learned from some incredible instructors along the way, who pushed me to my full potential, so to be able to do the same for others every day is the greatest feeling and also continues to push me to be my best. Just remember that YES YOU CAN!
Alyssa Miller
Head Coach
Lance
OWNER/CEO
I was a ‘husky’ kid with a bad stutter in middle school, kids picked on me. Starting in 1980, martial arts training at Iowa State University helped build my confidence and control my stutter. I eventually taught martial arts full time with 4 locations in Des Moines. That transformed into Farrell’s eXtreme Bodyshaping in 2001. I’m humbled and proud that 47 locations, nearly 400,000 have experienced transformations with FXB.I can’t thank our instructors, coaches and franchisees enough for their leadership
I was a ‘husky’ kid with a bad stutter in middle school, kids picked on me. Starting in 1980, martial arts training at Iowa State University helped build my confidence and control my stutter. I eventually taught martial arts full time with 4 locations in Des Moines. That transformed into Farrell’s eXtreme Bodyshaping in 2001. I’m humbled and proud that 47 locations, nearly 400,000 have experienced transformations with FXB.I can’t thank our instructors, coaches and franchisees enough for their leadership
Lance Farrell
Owner/CEO
Michelle
INSTRUCTOR
I love teaching Farrell’s classes because of the energy of the students. Helping motivate the class and then seeing that energy come out when punching the bag, or using a higher resistance bands is very rewarding to me. It helps fill my bucket for sure 🙂
I love teaching Farrell’s classes because of the energy of the students. Helping motivate the class and then seeing that energy come out when punching the bag, or using a higher resistance bands is very rewarding to me. It helps fill my bucket for sure 🙂
Michelle Ponsor
Instructor
Jeff
INSTRUCTOR
Farrell’s has really helped me stay on target with my fitness goals. I love the Farrell’s approach to helping each other be more successful. We are family! I love seeing the transformation in each and every person who makes the commitment to be more fit. It’s my big “WHY” I love being an instructor.
Farrell’s has really helped me stay on target with my fitness goals. I love the Farrell’s approach to helping each other be more successful. We are family! I love seeing the transformation in each and every person who makes the commitment to be more fit. It’s my big “WHY” I love being an instructor.
Jeff Ostrander
Instructor
Diane
INSTRUCTOR
I love watching people's day to day progression and feel great about being part of their transformation. Over the years, I've really benefitted from the confidence gained by leading classes and have truly appreciated the friendships I've made. The benefits of consistent exercise and following the FXB nutrition plan are key to my long term health plan.
I love watching people's day to day progression and feel great about being part of their transformation. Over the years, I've really benefitted from the confidence gained by leading classes and have truly appreciated the friendships I've made. The benefits of consistent exercise and following the FXB nutrition plan are key to my long term health plan.
Diane Bonnstetter
Instructor
Jane
INSTRUCTOR
Farrell’s has changed my attitude toward exercise, nutrition and so much more. I’ve been a strength instructor for many years now, and I love seeing others reach - and surpass - their goals. Farrell’s is truly a community, focused on seeing everyone succeed!
Farrell’s has changed my attitude toward exercise, nutrition and so much more. I’ve been a strength instructor for many years now, and I love seeing others reach - and surpass - their goals. Farrell’s is truly a community, focused on seeing everyone succeed!
Jane Johannesen
Instructor
Justin
INSTRUCTOR
As a Farrell's instructor, one of the things I've gained is the confidence to be in front of others and lead the class. As an introvert, this was huge for me. I love "paying it forward" to students and inspiring them like I've been inspired! Farrell's has also enabled me to do some things physically and achieve some goals that weren't possible before, especially through my passion of climbing
As a Farrell's instructor, one of the things I've gained is the confidence to be in front of others and lead the class. As an introvert, this was huge for me. I love "paying it forward" to students and inspiring them like I've been inspired! Farrell's has also enabled me to do some things physically and achieve some goals that weren't possible before, especially through my passion of climbing
Justin McKeever
Instructor
Sampa
INSTRUCTOR
Farrell's has taught me to push beyond my limits, both physically and mentally, and has given me the confidence to instruct kickboxing classes. As an instructor, I love the energy and "CAN DO" attitude that each member brings to the mat. The pride and satisfaction I see on each member's face after an intense and fun workout is something words cannot express. It's a feeling I strive for every day, and it truly is magical.
Farrell's has taught me to push beyond my limits, both physically and mentally, and has given me the confidence to instruct kickboxing classes. As an instructor, I love the energy and "CAN DO" attitude that each member brings to the mat. The pride and satisfaction I see on each member's face after an intense and fun workout is something words cannot express. It's a feeling I strive for every day, and it truly is magical.
Sampa Roy
Instructor
Katie
INSTRUCTOR
Teaching at Farrell’s has enhanced my ability to connect with people and broaden my avenues to build confidence in myself as a leader. I enjoy interacting with people, challenging each person and motivating them to do it for themselves.
Teaching at Farrell’s has enhanced my ability to connect with people and broaden my avenues to build confidence in myself as a leader. I enjoy interacting with people, challenging each person and motivating them to do it for themselves.
Katie Faeth
Instructor
Joe
INSTRUCTOR
Being an instructor provides great opportunities to connect and encourage people. It also causes me to hold myself to a higher standard. When that alarm goes off at 4:30, sometimes it’s hard to get up and get going, but seeing the commitment and effort of those around me gets me going!
Being an instructor provides great opportunities to connect and encourage people. It also causes me to hold myself to a higher standard. When that alarm goes off at 4:30, sometimes it’s hard to get up and get going, but seeing the commitment and effort of those around me gets me going!
Joe Richards
Instructor
Lisa
INSTRUCTOR
I have the privilege of interacting with a diverse clientele, becoming a significant part of their journey towards healthier living. Being an instructor offers a unique opportunity to inspire positive transformations in their lives, an experience that leaves me profoundly grateful.
I have the privilege of interacting with a diverse clientele, becoming a significant part of their journey towards healthier living. Being an instructor offers a unique opportunity to inspire positive transformations in their lives, an experience that leaves me profoundly grateful.
Lisa Stannis
Instructor
Amy
INSTRUCTOR
After being a consistent FXB member for 2 years I decided to start teaching classes as a way to give back and push myself out of my comfort zone. I love seeing members push themselves and achieve their goals! The relationships I've made with other instructors and fellow members is what keeps me coming back every morning at 5am!
After being a consistent FXB member for 2 years I decided to start teaching classes as a way to give back and push myself out of my comfort zone. I love seeing members push themselves and achieve their goals! The relationships I've made with other instructors and fellow members is what keeps me coming back every morning at 5am!
Amy Llewellyn
Instructor
Julie
INSTRUCTOR
It is a blessing to be a part of the Farrell's team to help make a difference in the lives of others just like so many instructors/coaches have done and continue to do for me.
It is a blessing to be a part of the Farrell's team to help make a difference in the lives of others just like so many instructors/coaches have done and continue to do for me.
Julie Russell
Instructor
Jenny
INSTRUCTOR
I love instructing at Farrell’s! It is truly an honor to get to be a part of the journey for our members. I especially love witnessing the transformation of the mind of our members. Watching them grow in confidence from the nervousness and anxiousness of day one is so awesome! The best part of the transformation in the final photos is the huge smile on each member’s face. It is truly rewarding and I am so grateful to be a part of it.
I love instructing at Farrell’s! It is truly an honor to get to be a part of the journey for our members. I especially love witnessing the transformation of the mind of our members. Watching them grow in confidence from the nervousness and anxiousness of day one is so awesome! The best part of the transformation in the final photos is the huge smile on each member’s face. It is truly rewarding and I am so grateful to be a part of it.
Jenny Walker
Instructor
Brian
INSTRUCTOR
I’m not just an instructor, I’m also a member. When I came to Farrell's I was far from healthy. I couldn’t do some of the simple things I enjoyed without getting winded. I certainly didn’t like the person I saw in the mirror. Joining Farrell’s, I was immediately surrounded by people who believed in me, from instructors, to coaches, to other members. That is what I am as an instructor to give back to everyone. Everyone is welcome on my mat. Everyone is a champion. I'm so glad to share mat space with each and every one of you!
I’m not just an instructor, I’m also a member. When I came to Farrell's I was far from healthy. I couldn’t do some of the simple things I enjoyed without getting winded. I certainly didn’t like the person I saw in the mirror. Joining Farrell’s, I was immediately surrounded by people who believed in me, from instructors, to coaches, to other members. That is what I am as an instructor to give back to everyone. Everyone is welcome on my mat. Everyone is a champion. I'm so glad to share mat space with each and every one of you!
Brian Mayer
Instructor
Kathryn
INSTRUCTOR
Being an instructor at Farrells is like being a supercharged personal cheerleader! Watching people choose every day to SHOW UP to class and work hard is an honor. The environment here is always friendly and motivating. The kindness and encouragement past instructors and coaches have shown me has inspired me to do the same. Leading by example is something that I take very seriously as an instructor. It’s so rewarding to see new students overcome new challenges while I’m right there with them doing the same thing! I am so grateful to be a part of something so inspiring and rewarding.
Being an instructor at Farrells is like being a supercharged personal cheerleader! Watching people choose every day to SHOW UP to class and work hard is an honor. The environment here is always friendly and motivating. The kindness and encouragement past instructors and coaches have shown me has inspired me to do the same. Leading by example is something that I take very seriously as an instructor. It’s so rewarding to see new students overcome new challenges while I’m right there with them doing the same thing! I am so grateful to be a part of something so inspiring and rewarding.
Kathryn Wilson
Instructor
Kari
INSTRUCTOR
Leading class is an honor and privilege I don’t take lightly. Each time I put on the mic I think about each student and how I can help them achieve their goals on the mat. Farrell’s is a friendly, fun environment that encourages students through structure and support to achieve their goals. Farrell’s has enabled me to go out of my comfort zone to do things I didn’t even know were possible for me.
Leading class is an honor and privilege I don’t take lightly. Each time I put on the mic I think about each student and how I can help them achieve their goals on the mat. Farrell’s is a friendly, fun environment that encourages students through structure and support to achieve their goals. Farrell’s has enabled me to go out of my comfort zone to do things I didn’t even know were possible for me.
Kari Dejong
Instructor
Jamie
INSTRUCTOR
I really love the group environment that Farrell’s offers. I find it easier to motivate myself to reach my own “Level 10” when I see others pushing themselves during each class. That type of inspiring atmosphere is why I love instructing so much. I enjoy getting to know the members and forming a personal bond with each one. Everyone has a story and goals, and I get so much happiness out of seeing everyone striving towards those goals every day!
I really love the group environment that Farrell’s offers. I find it easier to motivate myself to reach my own “Level 10” when I see others pushing themselves during each class. That type of inspiring atmosphere is why I love instructing so much. I enjoy getting to know the members and forming a personal bond with each one. Everyone has a story and goals, and I get so much happiness out of seeing everyone striving towards those goals every day!
Jamie Friis
Instructor
Kat
INSTRUCTOR
Farrell's has truly been my "happy place" for over a decade! I have met some wonderful people, have had some incredible workouts, and have had the amazing opportunity to be an instructor & a coach. I love being part of a team that encourages, inspires, and motivates others to prioritize their health - both physically and mentally!
Farrell's has truly been my "happy place" for over a decade! I have met some wonderful people, have had some incredible workouts, and have had the amazing opportunity to be an instructor & a coach. I love being part of a team that encourages, inspires, and motivates others to prioritize their health - both physically and mentally!
Kat Schuster
Instructor
Scott
INSTRUCTOR
My wife Lynn and I joined Farrell’s in 2017. I had turned 50 and didn’t like how I looked or felt. I had no idea how much we would enjoy it. The people we have met and worked out with are like family to us. We push each other to achieve our goals. I became an instructor because I wanted to give back a small portion of what I’ve gotten out of it. I love helping push people to accomplish more than they thought they could. It is truly a blessing and a privilege to be on the mic.
My wife Lynn and I joined Farrell’s in 2017. I had turned 50 and didn’t like how I looked or felt. I had no idea how much we would enjoy it. The people we have met and worked out with are like family to us. We push each other to achieve our goals. I became an instructor because I wanted to give back a small portion of what I’ve gotten out of it. I love helping push people to accomplish more than they thought they could. It is truly a blessing and a privilege to be on the mic.
Scott Oswald
Instructor
Kristin
INSTRUCTOR
I’ve been instructing at Farrell’s Waukee since 2010. Whether I’m instructing kickboxing or strength training, I love to bring the energy and push students to give it their Level 10! I’m also passionate about showing others that fitness can be FUN!!! The community at Farrell’s Waukee is the best. We support and encourage each other to surpass our goals. See you on the mat!
I’ve been instructing at Farrell’s Waukee since 2010. Whether I’m instructing kickboxing or strength training, I love to bring the energy and push students to give it their Level 10! I’m also passionate about showing others that fitness can be FUN!!! The community at Farrell’s Waukee is the best. We support and encourage each other to surpass our goals. See you on the mat!
Kristin Bean
Instructor
Shelley
INSTRUCTOR
Farrells was supposed to be a 10-week program. 10 weeks and done. 12 years later it has become more than a program, it has become a way of life. I've met my bests friends, have been educated on how to better myself and have totally come out of my comfort zone by instructing. With the encouragement from my gym owners and workout partners, I pushed myself to a Level 3 instructor. Something that I never thought I would be comfortable doing! Farrells is not just a gym, it's a FAMILY!
Farrells was supposed to be a 10-week program. 10 weeks and done. 12 years later it has become more than a program, it has become a way of life. I've met my bests friends, have been educated on how to better myself and have totally come out of my comfort zone by instructing. With the encouragement from my gym owners and workout partners, I pushed myself to a Level 3 instructor. Something that I never thought I would be comfortable doing! Farrells is not just a gym, it's a FAMILY!
Shelley Sherlock
Instructor
Ryan
INSTRUCTOR
I love being an instructor at Farrell’s! Every day, I’m inspired by the dedication and energy that each member brings. Watching people transform not just physically but mentally is incredible—seeing them become stronger and more confident with each class. There’s nothing like that moment when members realize their own power and potential! It’s a privilege to be alongside our members on their journeys!
I love being an instructor at Farrell’s! Every day, I’m inspired by the dedication and energy that each member brings. Watching people transform not just physically but mentally is incredible—seeing them become stronger and more confident with each class. There’s nothing like that moment when members realize their own power and potential! It’s a privilege to be alongside our members on their journeys!
Ryan McDonnell
Instructor
Betsy
INSTRUCTOR
I’ve always loved group fitness. There’s something incredibly motivating about working together as a group, where the energy of the class builds a sense of community and accountability. I love seeing individuals push themselves beyond their limits, discover their strength, and feel empowered. The best part is witnessing the transformation—both physical and mental—that happens when people commit to their fitness journey.
I’ve always loved group fitness. There’s something incredibly motivating about working together as a group, where the energy of the class builds a sense of community and accountability. I love seeing individuals push themselves beyond their limits, discover their strength, and feel empowered. The best part is witnessing the transformation—both physical and mental—that happens when people commit to their fitness journey.
Betsy Frederes
Instructor
MJ
INSTRUCTOR
I love cheering people on and celebrating with them as they work towards and reach their goals. Teaching at Farrell’s gives me the opportunity to work with others on their fitness journey and to help them fine-tune the details. Lifting others up just makes me happy!
I love cheering people on and celebrating with them as they work towards and reach their goals. Teaching at Farrell’s gives me the opportunity to work with others on their fitness journey and to help them fine-tune the details. Lifting others up just makes me happy!
MJ Holmes
Instructor
Michael
INSTRUCTOR
Farrell's helped me with my confidence and brought out my personality. When I started Farrell's, I was incredibly shy. I joined to work on my health and fitness and had no idea the additional benefits the program provided me. By gaining self confidence I became more able to take myself out of my “comfort zone” and interact with people, making new friends and a new career in the process.
Farrell's helped me with my confidence and brought out my personality. When I started Farrell's, I was incredibly shy. I joined to work on my health and fitness and had no idea the additional benefits the program provided me. By gaining self confidence I became more able to take myself out of my “comfort zone” and interact with people, making new friends and a new career in the process.
Michael Slomczewski
Instructor
Todd
Director of Training and Programming
Todd is a 5th degree Farrell's U.S. Martial Arts black belt and is the first black belt awarded from Farrells. Todd started Taekwondo classes with Lance Farrell in the summer of 1982 at Guthrie Center High School, started teaching class in 1984 after Master Farrell relocated to Creston, Iowa, and received his black belt in 1986.
Todd is a 5th degree Farrell's U.S. Martial Arts black belt and is the first black belt awarded from Farrells. Todd started Taekwondo classes with Lance Farrell in the summer of 1982 at Guthrie Center High School, started teaching class in 1984 after Master Farrell relocated to Creston, Iowa, and received his black belt in 1986.
Todd Dorr
Director of Training and Programming
Phillippe
Instructor
I started Farrell’s more than 15 years ago, and it has been a big part of my life ever since. In 2017 I was involved in a serious accident that shattered my hip. I didn’t know if I would ever walk normally again, let alone return to kickboxing. After a full hip replacement and a long recovery, I worked my way back into the gym and eventually back to teaching. My goal is to push people to push themselves, whether it’s their first week or their hundredth.
I started Farrell’s more than 15 years ago, and it has been a big part of my life ever since. In 2017 I was involved in a serious accident that shattered my hip. I didn’t know if I would ever walk normally again, let alone return to kickboxing. After a full hip replacement and a long recovery, I worked my way back into the gym and eventually back to teaching. My goal is to push people to push themselves, whether it’s their first week or their hundredth.
Phillippe Taborga
Instructor
REAL LIFE RESULTS
Not only are our members trimming down and toning up, but many of them report increased energy and focus allowing them to excel in all areas of life! Don’t take our word for it. Scroll below to see their results for yourself.
"I'm a better mom and wife.. I love the person I am today" - Kaitlyn
"Make the jump, get off the fence and go give it a shot. Make those goals a reality" - Wayne
“Not only did my own life change but I became an inspiration for people around me.” -Mark
“I was a great mom on the outside – but on the inside I was dying.” -Tina
“I won’t miss living with constant back pain.” -Steve
“To say that I did not know how to cope would be a understatement.” -Callie S.