Meet The Team
Leading Experts
At Rise4, we believe that our strength lies in our team. Each member of our staff brings a unique blend of expertise, passion, and personality to the gym, creating an environment that is as welcoming as it is inspiring. From the depths of personal training and holistic health coaching to expert gym management and specialized instructional talent, our team is the cornerstone of every member's success story. It's their dedication to fostering a supportive, motivational, and inclusive atmosphere that keeps our members returning. They're not just trainers and staff; they're innovators and motivators who empower each member to reach new heights in their fitness journeys.
Join us at Rise4, where our community thrives on the individual strengths of its people, and every workout is an opportunity to experience the collective power of dedicated professionals.
Sam Stephens
Co-Founder, Head Trainer, Personal Trainer (PNC, CPT, FRCms)
Sam Stephens stands as a cornerstone of Rise4, bringing a wealth of expertise and passion from the emerald isles of Dublin, Ireland. Since 2016, Sam has been immersed in the health and fitness industry, where his dedication to fostering better movement patterns has flourished into a full-fledged career.
Educated at the Elite Fitness & Performance Academy, Ireland’s premier fitness training institution, Sam obtained comprehensive certifications in personal training, nutrition for physical activity, group fitness, and as a level 3 kettlebell instructor. His commitment to excellence didn’t stop there; Sam also became a certified Precision Nutrition coach and a Functional Range Conditioning Mobility Specialist (FRCms), rounding out his fitness and health repertoire.
Over the past six years, Sam’s focus has been on helping individuals enhance their lives through better movement, sustainable nutrition habits, and overall holistic health. His approach combines rigorous movement assessments with tailored strength training and effective recovery protocols, ensuring each client achieves their personal health goals in a supportive environment.
Now, as a co-founder of Rise4, Sam is dedicated to creating a community where like-minded individuals can thrive together. At Rise4, members experience a unique fitness journey tailored to their specific needs, guided by Sam’s expertise in both group settings and individual training sessions.
Sam’s vision for Rise4 is not just about building a gym; it’s about fostering a vibrant community where every member embarks on a transformative journey of health and wellness, supported by expert guidance and a commitment to achieving lasting results.
Shannon Ballinger
Physical Therapist, Personal Trainer, Nutritional Coach (PT, DPT, CSCS, FNC, TRS)
Shannon Ballinger brings a vibrant spirit and deep expertise to Rise4, seamlessly blending her passion for the outdoors and athletics into her professional career. With a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of Utah and an extensive background as a Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist, Shannon is a powerhouse of knowledge and skill. Her journey began in the rugged terrains of the North Cascades, Washington, where her love for competitive sports and nature bloomed.
At Rise4, Shannon not only treats clients in her own dedicated office but also energizes our group training classes with her dynamic coaching style. Her holistic approach to physical wellness is evident in every aspect of her work, from injury prevention and recovery to crafting customized strength and conditioning programs and nutritional coaching.
Shannon's commitment to lifelong learning has led her to acquire certifications across a spectrum of disciplines, including Functional Nutrition Coaching, Biomechanics Specialist, and more. Each certification, whether it's the cutting-edge techniques from The Ready State or the Empowered Performance Coach Certification, contributes to her multifaceted approach to client care, ensuring she meets a wide array of client needs with precision and empathy.
Outside the clinic, Shannon's life is just as active. Whether she's trail running with her German Short-haired Pointers, Miles and Mowgli, playing Ultimate Frisbee, or preparing a nutritious meal with her husband Alex, Shannon embodies the balanced, health-focused lifestyle she advocates for her clients.
At Rise4, Shannon's blend of expert knowledge, enthusiastic coaching, and dedication to client success makes her an indispensable part of our community. Her ability to connect with clients and guide them through their fitness journeys with tailored programs and heartfelt encouragement is what makes her a standout member of our team.
Have a hindering injury? Book a physical therapy session here.
Ashley Sackville
Manager, Personal Trainer (CPT, CNC)
Ashley Sackville combines a passion for fitness with deep managerial expertise to enrich the Rise4 experience for every member. A Utah native with years spent in Seattle, Ashley's journey is a testament to her adaptability and commitment to health and wellness. From the University of Washington where she kicked off her fitness career as a step aerobics instructor to managing a luxury home fragrance line, Ashley's diverse background brings a unique perspective to her role at Rise4.
While in Seattle, Ashley not only started her family but also cultivated a multifaceted career. However, Utah's call was irresistible, with its majestic mountains perfect for hiking or skiing—a reminder of where her heart truly belongs. Her time away from the fitness world, immersed in the business sector, reinforced her belief in the essential role of physical activity for mental well-being.
“The physiological benefits of exercise and movement cannot be underestimated. There is nothing more empowering than feeling strong both physically and mentally.”
Returning to the fitness industry after a 15-year tenure with Antica Farmacista, Ashley brought with her a wealth of experience and a renewed passion for group fitness. She cherishes the community spirit, the collective motivation, and the transformative impact of group exercise. As a gym manager and occasional trainer at Rise4, she strives to provide an exceptional experience both during and after workouts, aiming to see those smiling, sweaty faces that signify a job well done.
Ashley's Love for Fitness and Community: Ashley's approach as both manager and trainer is deeply influenced by her diverse experiences. Her background as a pastry chef adds a sprinkle of fun to her classes, reminding everyone that balance is key to a healthy lifestyle. She believes in the power of community to motivate and support, making every session at Rise4 not just a workout but a shared journey towards better health.
Jameson Mohammadi
Human Health Specialist, Personal Trainer, Nutritional Coach (BS, CPT, CNC)
Jameson Mohammadi is not just a coach at Rise4; he is a dedicated pioneer in the field of human health, specializing in ancestral behavior and sustainable lifestyle interventions. A proud native of Salt Lake City, UT, Jameson brings a unique blend of academic rigor and practical application to his training methods. His academic journey spans degrees in Health and Kinesiology, Nutrition Science from the University of Utah, and Humanities and Social Sciences with a focus on Biological Anthropology and Primatology from Monterey Peninsula College.
As a NASM Certified Personal Trainer and Certified Nutrition Coach, Jameson’s approach is deeply rooted in understanding the evolutionary aspects of human behavior and health. His philosophy revolves around the concept that modern lifestyle shifts—characterized by reduced movement, inadequate nutrition, and insufficient community bonding—contribute significantly to today's health crises.
At Two Foot Training, Jameson’s own venture, he crafts programs that are designed to mimic the beneficial aspects of our ancestors' lifestyles, adapted to today’s world. His Two Foot Nutrition Program emphasizes eating like our ancestors, focusing on nutrient-rich, whole foods that fuel the body optimally, supporting both physical and metabolic health.
Specializing in dynamic health and biomechanics, particularly around foot and ankle function, Jameson integrates comprehensive movement assessments into his training. These help clients build better movement patterns, crucial for overall health and injury prevention.
Jameson believes that health is complex and multifaceted—encompassing physical, mental, emotional, and environmental aspects. He advocates for a balanced approach to wellness, where making healthier choices doesn't mean sacrificing the joys of life, like enjoying an ice cream cone with friends on a birthday.
Denali Pontvianne
Personal Trainer (CPT, GEI)
Denali Pontvianne brings a dynamic blend of global fitness experience and expert boxing skills to Rise4, energizing and inspiring all who train with her. Originally from Durango, Mexico, Denali's journey into the world of sports began early, shaping her lifelong passion for fitness and coaching.
Having spent over eight years in the fitness industry, Denali excels not only as a personal trainer and group fitness instructor but also stands out as a seasoned boxing coach. Her deep understanding of boxing techniques and strategies enhances her ability to train clients effectively, making her sessions both challenging and exhilarating.
Denali's career also spans across international borders, where she has been instrumental in opening gyms and developing fitness programs worldwide. Her credibility is further bolstered by her role as a sports model for leading brands such as Nike, Reebok, Adidas, Under Armour, and Icon Health & Fitness.
More than anything, Denali is passionate about holistic health. She employs a comprehensive approach in her coaching, integrating physical training with nutrition and mental wellness to help others achieve a balanced lifestyle. This holistic method is particularly reflected in her boxing training, where she emphasizes not just the physical prowess but also the mental discipline required to excel in the sport.
Join Denali for Boxing and More at Rise4: Whether you're looking to improve your boxing skills, enhance your overall fitness, or embark on a holistic health journey, Denali is ready to guide you. Her expertise in boxing is matched by her dedication to all aspects of health, making her sessions uniquely comprehensive and deeply transformative.
Brecca Johnson
Personal Trainer (CPT)
Brecca Johnson is a dynamic force at Rise4, bringing a vibrant passion for fitness and a deep commitment to empowering others, especially women, through their health journeys. Originally from Idaho and with a spellbinding stint in Barcelona during her teenage years, Brecca’s global perspective and rich experiences add a unique flavor to her coaching style.
Graduating from Brigham Young University with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications, Brecca has mastered the art of connection and motivation. Settled in Salt Lake City with her husband Chris and their four children, she discovered her passion for weight training after the birth of her fourth child. What began as a quest to “lose the baby weight” evolved into a profound appreciation for strength training and a fervent desire to learn and teach others.
Brecca is not just any trainer; she is a beacon of strength and support for women navigating the physical challenges of pregnancy and postpartum. Her approach goes beyond traditional training, focusing on empowerment and resilience, helping women to reclaim and celebrate their strength at every stage of motherhood.
Expanding the Rise4 Community: Together with her husband Chris, Brecca is instrumental in opening a second Rise4 location in Holladay, Utah. This new venture is a testament to her dedication and belief in Rise4’s mission to foster a supportive fitness community that thrives on personal growth and mutual support.
Brecca’s infectious enthusiasm and empathetic coaching style make her a beloved member of the Rise4 family. She is particularly adept at designing training programs that not only build physical strength but also bolster confidence and self-esteem, making her an invaluable resource for anyone looking to transform their life through fitness.
Aspen Francis
Personal Trainer (CPT)
Aspen Francis brings enthusiasm to every session she leads at Rise4. Certified as a personal trainer by the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) nearly two years ago, Aspen is deeply committed to expanding her expertise in health and fitness. Her passion for coaching is evident in how she uses her growing knowledge to inspire and guide others towards achieving their fitness goals.
Currently, Aspen is enhancing her skill set by pursuing a certification as a nutrition coach. This additional qualification will allow her to offer a more holistic approach to wellness, integrating dietary guidance with physical training to provide comprehensive health strategies for her clients.
When she’s not coaching at Rise, Aspen is a vibrant presence in the fitness community, frequently participating in spin classes and dedicating herself to weightlifting. Her dedication to fitness is matched by her academic and professional pursuits; Aspen is currently working towards an MBA while managing marketing for a prominent company.
Beyond her professional and fitness-related activities, Aspen has a passion for the great outdoors and culinary exploration. She relishes the opportunity to hike scenic trails, travel to new destinations, and cook delicious, healthful meals. This blend of activities underscores her balanced approach to life—embracing career, education, fitness, and personal well-being with equal vigor.
Working Behind the Scenes
Corry Smith
Co-Founder
Corry Smith, co-founder of Rise4, is the strategic mind behind the business, ensuring everything runs smoothly and efficiently. Known as the glue that holds our gym community together, Corry’s passion for the Rise4 community is palpable. He tirelessly works behind the scenes to enhance every aspect of the gym experience, fostering a supportive environment where everyone feels at home.
Sydney Smith
Social Media Manager
Sydney Smith is the dynamic force behind Rise4's engaging social media presence. She expertly blends informational and promotional content, interacts with our community, and manages daily progress on our platforms. Sydney's efforts ensure that every post connects and resonates with our members, keeping the Rise4 spirit vibrant and visible online.
Ellie Smith
Merchandise Manager
Ellie Smith greets every member with a smile at the front desk, making first impressions count at Rise4. Beyond her welcoming duties, Ellie is instrumental in managing our merchandise line. She skillfully handles the printing of unique designs on the apparel that Rise4 proudly offers, ensuring our members not only feel great but also look great in our gear.
Megan Bachorowski
Front Desk
Megan Bachorowski is the welcoming face at the front desk of Rise4, where she ensures that every member feels immediately at home. With her keen organization skills and vibrant personality, Megan provides a seamless check-in experience and is always ready to assist with any inquiries.