Matt

“Kia is TheHill’s newest team member. You will see her in the evenings managing the front desk and greeting all of the clients that come into our space. She also works for Wes Hamilton with Disabled But Not Really, so you’ll see her helping out with the disabled athletes we are blessed to know. Kia’s background of customer service is a huge asset to our community. Say hi, introduce yourself, and make her feel welcome.”

What’s your name? Any fun nicknames?
Makia Cunningham, Mac, Kia or Kiki

What did you want to be when you grew up?
Marine Biologist

Where did you grow up?
All over, I was a military brat

What was your favorite subject/activity in school?
Science

Weird part time job you had in the past?
It’s not weird but I worked on a ranch in high school

Favorite movie? Favorite line from that movie?
Howl’s Moving Castle “A heart’s a heavy burden”

Got any hidden talents?
I can name all 50 states in alphabetical order and name all books of the bible in order

What do you like about KC?
The bbq

What is the name of your business?
The HillKC & Disabled But Not Really(DBNR)

What is your profession? “What do you do?”
For TheHillKC – Evening Front Desk Manager
For DBNR – Administrative Assistant

How did you get connected with The Hill?
Through DBNR

What motivates you in your craft?
I love paperwork and organizing

What is one thing you wished everyone knew about your profession?
It’s not always as easy as it looks

Anything you’d like to share with The Hill?
I’m a big comicon nerd

“Getting to know Natalie, and see her grow as an athlete and a human, has been an honor and a privilege. I love seeing the transformation of exercise and nutrition as punishment, to exercise and nutrition as a form of  celebration to what your body is capable of. Natalie has made that transformation in herself, but also outwardly expresses self-acceptance and love to everyone around her. Encouraging of everyone who takes a class with her, celebratory of everyone’s victories. I couldn’t be happier to have Natalie in our community!” -Coach Brianna

Your Name? 
Natalie Dees

What is your favorite color?
Black 🙂

What did the frustration feel like as you tried to solve those challenges before you started at The Hill?

It was really just a hamster wheel before, feeling like you could never get ahead. I would set some arbitrary goal for myself “if I lose 5 lbs, I’ll be content” or “if I can do a 300 lb deadlift, I’ll be happy with my fitness” and of course, you check whatever it is off the list and you don’t feel more content or happy. I think we compare ourselves to one another by nature so I slip back into that thought pattern sometimes; but, having a community of genuinely nice and supportive people around you every single day helps feed that positivity that is very grounding.

How have you seen those challenges improve since joining The Hill? What does life looks like now?

I think it’s all a perspective thing – I value different things. For example, over the past holiday season, did I crush workouts and nail it in the nutrition department? Definitely not. Did I have the most fun with my friends and family? Hellz yeah. Now that the holidays are over I’m not going to feel bad about it and I don’t regret it. Really, I’m just living my best life over here and sometimes that looks like buckling down because I want to reach a fitness goal and other times it looks like drinking too much tequila and going to brunch. Neither are better than the other and neither make me a better or worse person. In conclusion, I’m here for doing whatever makes you happy whenever you feel like it. Thank you for coming to my TED talk.

How is The Hill different than other gyms you’ve been to?

There are a hundred things that I could say; but, for me the most important one is just that everyone at The Hill is really kind. Everyone has positive intent and really cares about the people around them.

What keeps you coming back? And where do you find your motivation when the workout looks difficult?

I can’t say I’m always motivated; but, showing up everyday is a force of habit that generally is pretty easy to get myself to do because I just like hanging out with everyone. When a workout is especially crappy and I’m really in the mood to push myself mentally and physically I think it’s just about making that choice. You make the choice, do it, and feel good about it. But, to be honest sometimes I’m not about it and I just show up, get through it, and check the box. Even if I’m not completing a workout “to my full potential”, I’m still better than I was before.

How do you make working out fit into your busy schedule?

Prioritization. Sometimes you have to be late to a happy hour or get up an hour early to workout in the morning; but, if it’s important you do it.

What would you say to someone thinking about starting CrossFit?

Here…..have some of this Kool-aid. And then I’d say, just give it a shot. If you’ve never done it before you won’t know if you like it until you try it. I think it’s kind of like getting a new job, you’re going to be a little bit scared or intimidated at first because it’s new, but you made that decision because ultimately you felt like it was a good fit and you’ll feel comfortable before you know it if it was the right thing it do.

What are some of your goals in or out of the gym? Personal Records or achievements that you’re proud of?

2020 – new year, new me. Just kidding. This year I’m going to pick a new skill or movement every month and dedicate time outside of class to improving that skill. I’m not great at motivating myself outside of the class setting, so I want to be a little more independent in that way. Also, I really want to get rid of things I don’t need and work on being more organized.

Anything else you would like to share with our #fitfam?

Welcome to all of our new athletes, and I’m excited to see what 2020 has in store for everyone 🙂 I love you all and we’re bringing back brunch after Saturday workouts.

  Coachable | Hardworking | Positive

“Ted is a great example of someone who has a huge heart, is involved in a ton of activities, and successfully completed the Help Me Fit program and transitioned into group classes. From the very beginning, Ted demonstrated his commitment and dedication, just by showing up, and then further challenging himself with every opportunity presented. As a veteran (Marines), Ted’s ability to connect with others, push himself in workouts, and be a true support to his classmates is something that shines through every time he’s at the gym. As he continues his journey with our fit family, Ted will always provide a positive attitude and give it his all! Lucky to know him and equally lucky to workout with him!” – Hollie Siegel

Your Name?
Theodore (Ted) John

What is your favorite color?  
Cobalt Blue

What would your superpower be? 
I would like to have incredible intelligence. I’d like to be able to solve the world’s problems like cancer, poverty, hunger, war, etc…

What is your spirit animal? 
A bald eagle

Row? Bike? Run? Ski? Why? 
Yes to all, except I can’t run right now because of an Achilles tendon injury. They all kick my butt while making me into a better butter burning machine.

What is your favorite CrossFit movement and/or workout? 
My favorite workout is the current one of the day. The best thing about CrossFit for me is that it is different every time I go to class. I am never bored. So far, all the workouts have kicked my butt. That is what I come for.

Favorite cheat meal in KC?  
Joe’s Kansas City, Ribs, Beans, and Fries.

When did you start working out at The Hill?  
October 2018 through Disabled But Not Really’s “Help Me Fit Challenge”

What were some of the emotional or physical challenges you were having before you started at CrossFit Memorial Hill? 
I am a disabled veteran with a 100% disability rating through the VA. I suffered from depression and ptsd. I often isolated myself in my apartment for days on end. It was pretty scary there for a while. I was pretty much sedentary all of the time, except for when I walked my dog.

What did the frustration feel like as you tried to solve those challenges before you started at The Hill? 
It was really hard at first to motivate myself to show up. Being that I was the only person in my cohort of Help Me Fit Challenge who was not in a wheelchair, I felt like I had no excuse. The other people I was working out with had to overcome huge challenges just to show up. I had no excuse and felt like I needed to show up and to do my best. I never would have gotten to where I am now without their inspiration.

How have you seen those challenges improve since joining The Hill? What does life looks like now? 
The symptoms of depression and PTSD have largely gone away. I have a joy of living again. It feels really good to be able to laugh and not feel empty inside. Life today is amazing. I am losing weight, I got a part time job at Starbucks, I even was able to convince a girl to be my girlfriend. I contribute all the positive changes that I have made in my life to what I learned during “Help Me Fit Challenge”. So much of that is just doing the basics, drinking water, eating real food, getting a good night’s sleep, keeping a record of what I eat, etc.

How is The Hill different than other gyms you’ve been to?
The main thing that keeps me coming back is the coaching and the camaraderie with my fellow athletes. Before going to the gym was a painful thing to endure. I work out way harder at The Hill and have a lot of fun doing it.

What keeps you coming back? And where do you find your motivation when the workout looks difficult?
What keeps me back is the camaraderie and the coaching. All the workouts look difficult for me. I just show up and do my best each and every time. The longest it is going to last is an hour. I can do ANYTHING for an hour.

How do you make working out fit into your busy schedule?
It helps being semi-retired. I still have a busy life and make working out a priority. I think of it as taking my medication. If I don’t work to cure the disease, I will never feel better.

What would you say to someone thinking about starting CrossFit?
Just keep at it. Listen to your coaches and your body. You more than likely are not going to be able to do muscle-ups on your first day. Just keep showing up and do your best and you will see improvements.

What are some of your goals in or out of the gym? Personal Records or achievements that you are proud of?
Since I have started working out, I have lost about 45 pounds. From May to November, I lost 32 pounds of fat, but gained 12 pounds of lean muscle mass. The first thing I think of being proud of is that I can do a squat properly. I wasn’t able to do that when I first came in. It is the little things that I am improving upon. One day I will look like David Curry.

Anything else you would like to share with our #fitfam?
I am so very grateful that you all have provided me the opportunity to drastically improve my life. I truly am living the dream. I am so grateful to Matt, Josh, Hollie, and Wesley for the opportunity to come in, work hard, and have fun. You all make it possible for me. Thank you!

Caring | Honest | Driven 

“Michael is a true supporter in the things he believes. He doesn’t only talk the talk, he walks the walk.  He is a man of conviction, he believes in providing the best service possible because he knows that the way you carry yourself is a representation of who you believe yourself to be on the inside. “- Josh Snyder

First off, let’s start with your name.
Mike Thurman

What did you want to be when you grew up?
A soldier.

Where did you grow up?
Topeka, KS. 

What was your favorite subject/activity in school?
History.

What is a weird part time job you had in the past?
McDonald’s in High School. 

Favorite movie? Favorite line from that movie?
Godfather – “You have to excuse me. As you can see I have a weakness for my children and spoil them as you can see.”

Got any hidden talents?
I am accurate and consistent at firing rifles. 

What do you enjoy about KC?
The small town feel while still enjoying the big city feel. 

What is the name of your business?
Standard Cuts.

What is your profession? What “do you do”?
Grooming stylist.

How did you get connected with TheHill?
I walked into the The Hill 5 years ago. I was interested in what the whole CrossFit “thing” was all about.

What motivates you in your craft?
The art. And the ability to give people that great feeling of a fresh haircut. I have seen a great cut post someone’s confidence instantly.

What is one thing you wish everyone knew about your profession?
The skill level it takes to actually be successful in their profession. And how fun it is to meet new people everyday and talk about that person’s experiences. This introduces a Barber/stylist to many cultures, ideas, convictions and theories.

Anything you’d like to share with TheHill?
I love working out of this facility. While I continue to grow my business I will always have a place with the The Hill.

Coachable | Hardworking | Positive

“From the first day I met Gini she has had a can do attitude. She is always willing to try new things and not just meet, but exceed expectations. She has had some obstacles along the way, but has kept focus on the things she can do. She has made incredible progress over this past year as we have worked together. For one example, we began using a 13lb kettlebell for deadlifts. Just a few months ago as we progressed to using a barbell. She said she wanted to reach a goal of a 65lb deadlift. What do you know, she did just that and more. A few weeks ago Gini hit a lift time PR of 70lbs for 5 reps!!! She never ceases to amaze me. When Gini sets her mind to something, she goes after it 100%!!!!! Self Proclaimed- “CrossFit Manica” Proud of you Gini!” -Coach Mindy

What is your favorite color?
Turquoise

What would your super power be?
Transformation of physical and emotional pain into strength.

What is your spirit animal?
Unicorn.

Run? Bike? Ski? Row? Why?
Run-to enjoy the beauty of the earth one step at a time.

What is your favorite CrossFit movement, and/or workout?
Workout – ski/sled push/deadlift

Favorite Cheat Meal in KC?
Stone Canyon Pizza. 

When did you start working out at The Hill?
11/15/18

What were some of the emotional or physical challenges you were having before you started at CrossFit Memorial Hill?
Age barriers; multiple physical injuries; fear of failure.

What did the frustration feel like as you tried to solve those challenges before you started at The Hill?
Like it’s now or never.

How have you seen those challenges improve since joining The Hill? What does life looks like now?
Energy beyond expectations, power over challenges. Pride in my accomplishments!

How is The Hill different than other gyms you’ve been to?
Everyone is happy and engaged with each other and the coaching team.

What keeps you coming back? And where do you find your motivation when the workout looks difficult?
Fear of losing what I have gained. My motivation can all be in the eyes and encouragement of coach Mindy.

How do you make working out fit into your busy schedule?
As a medical professional on call for trauma several days per month, I follow through with what I have learned from Coach Mindy at home.

What would you say to someone thinking about starting CrossFit?
Fear? It is a liar! Go for it, you will be amazed.

What are some of your goals in or out of the gym? Personal Records or achievements that you’re proud of?
Transform my gym energy into continuing to manage my life/business and be an example for others. My greatest achievement so far is my 75 lb dead lift!

Anything else you would like to share with our #fitfam?
My greatest power comes from those around me who aren’t afraid to encourage and praise accomplishments of total strangers.

Caring | Honest | Driven

“These are the values we uphold as a team, and Jason is no exception to that. One conversation with him and you will see his deep desire to teach people that pain doesn’t have to be a normal part of their lives. His passion and drive to help humans of all capabilities is inspiring, and we are so fortunate to have him on our team at TheHill. ” – Coach Brianna

What’s your name? Any fun nicknames?
Jason Gearhart – J Baby, because I have/had a baby face.

What did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be an NBA Player, needless to say, my career was short lived.

Where did you grow up?
St. Charles, MO

What was your favorite subject/activity in school?
Math

Weird part time job you had in the past?
I worked as a “referee” for a large slot car race track. It was an experience.

Favorite movie? Favorite line from that movie?
Wedding Crashers – “Maaaaa! The Meatloaf!”

Got any hidden talents?
At one point I got really good at blowing bubbles off my tongue.

What do you like about KC?
The people and the BBQ.

What is the name of your business?
The Vital Six

What is your profession? “What do you do?”
Physical Therapist – Help people get out of pain and back to the activities they love.

How did you get connected to The Hill?
Matt was kind enough to respond to my email and the rest was history :).

What motivates you in your craft?
The moment a patient realizes they are capable of so much more than their medical diagnosis. Also helping people achieve their goals free of medication or surgery.

What is one thing you wished everyone knew about your profession?
Rehabilitation doesn’t have to being boring. Also, there are no quick fixes when it comes to getting out of pain, it takes a lot of hard work, patience, and determination by both parties involved.

Anything you’d like to share with TheHill?
Thank you for the chance to be a part of something special.

Coachable | Hardworking | Positive

“If you needed any proof that Angie is as hard working as they come, just take a look at how fantastic of a mother she is to her 4 daughters, 3 of which are triplets. I have enjoyed getting to know Angie so much, and seeing her develop as an athlete. She doesn’t hesitate to ask questions if she doesn’t understand, she’s unafraid of slowing down to learn something, or to speed up once she’s got it. If she made the excuse that she didn’t have time to make fitness a priority in her life, no one would blame her. But she shows up, she works hard every single time, and she doesn’t let the busyness of being a wife and mom keep her from crushing her goals. Thanks for letting us be a part of your life, Angie!” – Coach Brianna

What is your favorite color? Blue

What would your superpower be? To be able to fly

What is your spirit animal? A dog

Row? Bike? Run? Ski? Why? If it is going to happen as part of a Crossfit workout, I would choose running over biking, skiing, or rowing because it doesn’t seem to wear out your muscular endurance as much as the other options.

What is your favorite CrossFit Workout or movement? Clean with Split Jerk

Favorite cheat meal in KC?  Salty Iguana; Blue Shell Chicken Tacos with a big thing of cheese dip and chips as an appetizer. Too bad they only have Pepsi. I prefer Coke.

When did you start working out at The Hill? November 2015

What were some of the emotional or physical challenges that you were having before you started at CrossFit Memorial Hill? I had been working out in more of a country club type atmosphere for the last 15 years. So, I had gotten used to a very repetitive type weekly calendar that didn’t have much variation at all. The group classes included things like spin, sculp fusion, body pump, step aerobics, etc. In most of the classes, the workouts would be identical for long periods of time. It was comfortable and easy to settle into the weekly repetitive rhythm of it all. I loved seeing my “workout girlfriends” and the camaraderie that we shared. But, the truth was that I didn’t feel like my body had appropriately responded to my 15 years of consistent attendance at the club’s daily exercises classes. And, it seemed like something about the way I was exercising was causing my knees and feet to hurt all the time. I was beginning to think that I was going to be a candidate for knee replacement surgery at some point in my future if something didn’t change.

How have you seen those challenges improve since joining The Hill? What does life look like now? Being at The Hill has really changed my exercise life. And, my body and general level of fitness. For the better. Although the classes are still in a group format, they are small enough to where the highly skilled coaches can get around to each athlete in the class, repetitively throughout each class, to make sure your form is correct. Within the first few months, I had learned to push my knees out anytime I was in a squatting position. I think that one change is probably what caused my knees to permanently stop hurting. It also has allowed me to be able to break parallel easily in that squat position, something I had never been able to do previously. In general, I don’t have daily pain that isn’t a simple result of the muscular discomfort from a hard workout the day before. And, after 3 ½ years of Crossfit, the way my body looks is starting to make a lot more sense to me. The coaches at the Hill call us “athletes”. I am starting to feel like that label fits me a bit better.

What keeps you coming back? And where do you find your motivation when the workout looks difficult? The incredible coaches, my friends and the community feeling, the awesome facility, the consistently varying workouts, the daily challenge that each workout represents and the feeling of accomplishment from finishing them, and the positive way my body continues to respond to Crossfit in general.

How do you make working out fit into your busy schedule? Luckily, I work from home. So, instead of doing a lunch hour dedicated to eating, I do Crossfit instead and squeeze a pre-planned meal into the last part of my lunch break.

What would you say to someone who is thinking about starting CrossFit? You CAN do it! You are not too old. You are not too unfit. You do not need to lose weight before you get started. And, you don’t need to go do another exercise program for a year before coming to Crossfit. Just come now. The coaches will work with you to give you a modified version of every exercise we do that will work for you. Crossfit is for everyone, and that includes YOU.

What are some of your personal goals in or out of the gym? Personal records or achievements that you are proud of? When I came to Crossfit, I wanted to get better form on all my exercise movements. Learning how to do Double Unders and being able to climb the rope consistently have been two of my favorite Crossfit accomplishments. I am also encouraged by the consistent progression in the quality of my Olympic lifting form. I am getting better at pushing through those times when you feel yourself wanting to quit or slow down during some of the more challenging workouts that we do each week. And, I hope that I am improving in my ability to take what the coaches are telling me and actually apply that to what I am doing that day.

Anything else you would like to share with our fitfam? Thank you for helping me find my new fitness family.