Team
Owners
Michelle Ladd, Co-Founder
A veteran in nutrition, wellness, and personal training support, Michelle’s career helping others began in 1997, after receiving her BS in Psychology and Exercise Physiology from Ohio Wesleyan University. Michelle provides private training and Nutrition and Lifestyle coaching to The Human Form Community. In 2011 she was named one of the Top Ten Trainers/Coaches in Columbus by Athletics Magazine.
Michelle’s dream is for The Human Form to provide the support, knowledge and inspiration for those looking to create a lifestyle that breeds health and vitality while having fun. She believes that “health and fitness” looks different for each person, and are the building blocks for a long and active life. Her kind and gentle approach allows her connect with and support clients of all backgrounds and ability levels.
Michelle’s certifications:
- CHEK Certified Holistic Lifestyle Coach
- Certified Precision Nutrition Coach
- NASM Certified Personal Trainer
- NASM Pre/Post Natal Fitness Specialist
- Certified Advanced Metabolic Typing Advisor
- DISC® Certified Behavioral Consultant
- Wellcoaches Health Coach
AKA:
Ellie. From when my brother was too little to pronounce my full name. He promptly named his stuffed elephant after me as well. Nice
Posse:
Cats. Lots of cats. I’m not sure the exact number should be public knowledge though…
Birth Place:
New York, baby!
What does the HF Culture mean to you:
My dream is for The Human Form to provide the support, knowledge and inspiration for those looking to create a lifestyle that breeds health and vitality. And of course, to help them have a great time doing it!
Favorite Exercise:
Barbell hip thrusts, single leg deadlifts, pull ups, kettle bell swings… things that make me feel strong and drive me to be stronger.
Least Favorite Exercise:
Stationary cardio. Why grind away on an elliptical or treadmill when you can have much more fun pushing a sled!
What do you do when you’re not coaching members towards their goals:
Cooking, gardening, reading, knitting, cuddling with kitties, spending time with good friends, relaxing in the hammock with Stephen.
Who do you look up to and why?
My mom is a great inspiration – at 73 years old, she is still pursuing her dreams and conquering her fears with a vengeance. She is a constant reminder that age is most definitely just a number.
Guilty Indulgence:
My mom’s chocolate cherry pie, without a doubt.
If you were a superhero, who would you be and why:
Wonder Woman – while I can’t deflect bullets with my bracelet, I do try to see the best in people and aim to “triumph not with fists or firepower, but with love”.
Can’t get enough of Michelle?
Top Ten Things You (Probably) Didn’t Know About Michelle <<<— Click Here
Stephen Ladd, Co-Founder
Co-Founder of The Human Form, Stephen serves our community with holistics fitness coaching, bodywork such as Be Activated and Reiki, and nondual coaching (a practice of resting in a state of openness, non-contrivance, and not-knowing). Stephen started The Human Form in 1991, and received his BA in Philosophy, Psychology and Comparative Religion from Miami University.
Stephen launched The Human Form in 1991, envisioning a place that embodies multiple aspects of wellness for everyone, regardless of their current condition, free of both ego and judgment (of others and self). He wanted it to be an oasis from the inherent stress of modern culture; a place where individuals can come together as a community and provide positive support for each other on the journey.
Stephen’s certifications:
- CHEK Corrective Exercise Kinesiologist
- Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist
- TPI Certified Golf Fitness Trainer Level 3
- TPI Certified Golf Power Coach Level 2
- TPI Certified Junior Golf Fitness Coach Level 2
- Be Activated (Douglas Heel) Practitioner Level 2
- Reflexive Performance Reset (RPR) Coach Level 2
- Reiki Master Practitioner
- Robbins-Madanes Trained Life Coach
- NLP Practitioner and Hypnosis Coach
AKA:
Boss Man. But only as a joke… everyone knows who the real boss is (sigh).
Posse:
Michelle and I rent a room out of a house owned by felines – Sergeant Pepper, Kimmy, Tonto, Rudy, Mr. Grey, and Lilly.
Birth Place:
Beech Grove, IN
What does the HF Culture mean to you:
My vision for HF started about 23 years ago – a place that embodies multiple aspects of wellness for everyone, regardless of their current condition, free of judgment (including self-judgment), and ego. An oasis from the inherent stress of modern culture; a place where individuals can come together as a community and provide positive support for each other on the journey.
Favorite Exercise:
Bulgarian Split Squats, Turkish Get Ups, or any exercise with a “hard-core sounding country” in front of it… in theory.
Least Favorite Exercise:
Bulgarian Split Squats, Turkish Get Ups, or any exercise with a “hard-core sounding country” in front of it… in practice.
What do you do when you’re not coaching members towards their goals:
Reading, laughing, hanging with cats (see answer above), date nights with Michelle.
Who do you look up to and why?
Each and every member here at HF, and ANYONE for that matter, that commits to taking care of themselves- physically, mentally and spiritually. It’s hard work these days, and those that pursue “holistic fitness”, regardless of the specific path, have my admiration.
Guilty Indulgence:
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams… and the show “Children’s Hospital” on AdultSwim.
If you were a superhero, who would you be and why:
Cat-Man, for obvious reasons. He was originally the arch-villain of Batman (click here for details). And I’ve always been a fan of the Anti-Hero.
Want to know even more about Stephen? Click link below:
Our Team
As a member of The Human Form, you will work closely with our coaches. Get to know them here.
Jeff Lowe, Coach
Jeff is a dedicated personal trainer, born and raised in Columbus, OH. He started his coaching journey in 2014 and joined the Human Form in 2016 with a passion for holistic and functional fitness. His background comes from strength training alongside functional fitness. He takes pride in his ability to correct form mistakes and alleviate pain during workouts, which helps people achieve their goals in the gym and maintain a strong, pain-free body. From teenagers to seniors, Jeff has worked with members of all ages and fitness levels, guiding them toward healthier, happier lifestyles.
Jeff’s certifications:
- TRX Certified
- CFSC (Certified Functional Strength Coach)
- Be Activated (Douglas Heel) Practitioner Level 2
- RPR (Reflexive Performance Reset) Level 2
AKA: JLo (like the singer)
Posse: I spend most of my free time with my husky, Louie.
Birth Place: Reynoldsburg, OH
What does the HF Culture mean to you:
The culture here is like no other. The moment you walk in, you’re greeted by supportive members and teammates; it’s awesome to still see and experience this positivity since becoming a coach here. The community plays a large role for me. To see everyone pushing each other in a healthy way and not being overly competitive is a refreshing change to the “normal” gym environment. Everyone here, from the members to the coaches, are all in support of each other and challenge one another to be the best version of themselves. I love it.
Favorite Exercise: The obvious answer is the “Romanian Copenhagen Bulgarian Split Side Deadlifts”.
Least Favorite Exercise: I have a hate-hate relationship with burpees.
What do you do when you’re not coaching members towards their goals: As mentioned above, I spend most of my free time with my dog Louie. We go on daily walks, nap and sometimes even share a meal together.
Who do you look up to and why? I always have and will look up to my mother. I guess you could say I’m a real “mommas boy”. She was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis around the time I was born. Since then, I can count on one hand how many times I’ve heard her complain about her pain or discomfort. She has supported me in every endeavor I have tried. Through her own hardships, she continues to work, get things done efficiently, and do everything possible to make her children happy. I don’t know how she does it, but I am certainly grateful to have her as my mother.
Guilty Indulgence: Reese’s because it has the perfect chocolate to peanut butter ratio.
If you were a superhero, who would you be and why: I have to go with Deadpool. Firstly, he’s played by Ryan Reynolds. I think that’s more than enough reason to pick Deadpool, but I’ll continue… Outside of Ryan playing his role in movie land, Deadpool is the antihero everyone roots for. He’s known as the “Merc with a Mouth” because of his tendency to talk and joke constantly. I aspire to be as carefree as he is in my daily life.
Lauren Miller, Coach, Licensed Massage Therapist
Pittsburgh native Lauren Miller joined the Human Form team in 2019, and has been providing strength and conditioning training, and therapeutic services for more than a decade. She received a BA in Sport Leadership and Humanities from The Ohio State University, became a Licensed Massage Therapist through the American Institute of Alternative Medicine, and became a Licensed Physical Therapist Assistant at the Bradford School.
Lauren specializes in functional movement, teaching safe, simple and effective tactics to screen and assess conscious movement patterns. When she’s not assisting clients, Lauren spends time with family, friends, and her dog, rides her motorcycle, and tries new coffee shops in Columbus.
Lauren’s certifications:
- Bachelors in Sport Leadership and Sport Humanities from Ohio State University
- Licensed Massage Therapist
- Licensed Physical Therapist Assistant
- Functional Range Conditioning Mobility Specialist
- Functional Range Release Spine Practitioner
- Mike Boyle Certified Functional Strength Coach
- Certified Functional Movement Techniques
- Certified USA Weightlifting Sports Performance Coach
- Certified Poliquin Sports Performance Coach
- ACSM Certified Personal Trainer
AKA: Laur
Posse: My fur babies, Rooney and Frannie, my partner Chelsea, and my family.
Birth Place: Pittsburgh
What does the HF Culture mean to you:
The HF culture is one of a kind. From the first time I stepped in here I could feel how different it is from any other place in Columbus. Not only is the coaching top notch, but the atmosphere is welcoming and genuine in all ways. The HF truly wants to help each and every person that walks in the door as much as we can.
Favorite Exercise: Kettlebell Swing
Least Favorite Exercise: Any kind of plank.
What do you do when you’re not coaching members towards their goals: Spend time with my family and friends, take the dogs on adventures, have fun with my nephews, Arlo, Orion, and Beckett and my niece, Marigold, and zip around on my motorcycle.
Who do you look up to and why? My mother, Elizabeth. I’ve seen her overcome so much in her life and come out as an incredibly strong and kick-ass woman. I strive to be like her every single day.
Guilty Indulgence: Only one? I guess it’d have to be chips. I’d choose salty over sweet any day.
If you were a superhero, who would you be and why? The Hulk. Some people think I have a hard shell before they meet me, but beneath my gigantic muscles (okay, I’m working on that) I’m a very emotional and deep person. I’m always the crier in the movie theatre. Just ask Coach Jeff what he first thought of me.
Patrick Birrer, Coach
With The Human Form since 2018, Patrick Birrer has been providing personal coaching since 2016. He received his BS in Exercise Science and Health Promotion, and minored in Nutrition at Otterbein University, where he also lettered in baseball. When he’s not doing Romanian Deadlifts, he’s playing basketball, baseball, or enjoying music and movies with his friends.
Patrick’s certifications:
- ACSM-Certified Personal Trainer
- NSCA-Certified Strength Conditioning Specialist
AKA: Pat
Posse: My old teammates from the glory days (sigh).
Birth Place: Buffalo, NY.
What does the HF Culture mean to you: The HF Culture is something that anyone can have a chance to experience. It does not matter what your history or attitude is as it relates to fitness. The culture has a family atmosphere and all who walk through the door are going to be cared for and pushed to be the best versions of themselves.
Favorite Exercise: RDL
Least Favorite Exercise: Anything involving my core.
What do you do when you’re not coaching members towards their goals: Playing baseball, basketball, or doing anything involving competition, listening to music, watching a movie, or hanging out with my friends.
Who do you look up to and why? My dad is the person I look up to the most in my life. He is someone who taught me to never make excuses for myself and the value of hard work. He is also someone who has always been there and supported me and I hope to be just like him when I am a father someday.
Guilty Indulgence: Any sort of chocolate candy, especially Kit-Kat’s or Reese’s.
If you were a superhero, who would you be and why: Captain America. The dude is jacked and is the leader of the Avengers…say no more.
Jade Smith, Coach
Jade joined The Human Form team in 2021 and has been helping people achieve their fitness goals ever since. She is also a Health and Wellness Coach, helping people live a balanced lifestyle tailored to their nutritional needs. Jade enjoys trying new foods, creating recipes, and empowering others to reach their goals without feeling restricted.
Jade’s certifications:
- NCI Level 1 – Applied Nutritional Coach
- NCI Mindset Specialist
AKA: My family calls me G, short for Gigi.
Posse: My siblings, parents, and close group of friends.
Birth Place: Parkersburg, West Virginia
What does the HF Culture mean to you: It’s everything I wish I had when I was younger. The HF culture is a way of life I hope others can experience. I initially joined with fitness as my main focus, but that quickly changed when I got to experience our amazing member community and supportive coaching atmosphere. Being a part of this community and culture feels like home, and I think there is something truly special about that.
Favorite Exercise: Anything that involves throwing around a kettlebell.
Least Favorite Exercise: Side planks, but I know they’re good for me.
What do you do when you’re not coaching members towards their goals: I spend my free time with my boyfriend and dog, relaxing at home, going on walks, and exploring all the good eats in Columbus.
Who do you look up to and why? My dad and brother. They’re some of the hardest workers I know. They’re always learning new skills, improving their work, or out exploring the world. They never fail to support or motivate me, and they always give me a good laugh.
Guilty Indulgence: I love a local coffee shop and baked goodies.
If you were a superhero, who would you be and why: I would be baby Groot because he’s just so stickin’ cute! In all seriousness, Groot is always there for his friends and family and fiercely protects the ones he loves.
JUSTIN COFFEE, COACH
Justin is a graduate of Columbus College of Art and Design earning a bachelors degree in Animation & Fine Arts in 2016. He is an avid fitness enthusiast that utilizes his creativity with his passion for helping others.
Justin received his National Academy of Sports Medicine certification in ’21 and started working with the Human Form in the winter of ‘23. Having experience training both individuals and groups, Justin believes that fitness increases confidence and boosts one’s overall mood. He has worked with clients from the age of 16-70+ with diverse fitness levels.
Justin Coffee does in fact like coffee and no his family is not connected to nor owns the product, Mr. Coffee.
Justin’s certifications:
- NASM-Certification Personal Trainer
- NASM-Group Training Certification
AKA: Nature Man & Coach Jay
Posse: Anyone who is kind & thoughtful, loves animals, enjoys nature walks and has a passion for fitness.
Birth Place: 40.0308° N, 83.0345° W
What does the HF Culture mean to you: Have you ever seen those classic Disney films where the main character is bundled up in a cloak and lost in a treacherous snowstorm deep in the woods? Just when all hope for this character is lost an inviting inn appears in the distance. Once inside the character is met with warm golden light, a crackling fire in the hearth, merry music, laughter, a mug of hot cocoa, and really caring people. The Human Form reminds me of that but there is just more grunting, cursing and sweating involved and sadly less cocoa….
Favorite Exercise: Squat Jumps, MB Slams, TRX Rows and good Ole’ Fashion Push-Ups
Least Favorite Exercise: Turkish Get-Up, HK Windmills and Crawls.
What do you do when you’re not coaching members towards their goals: Usually you can find me reading outside with a cup of coffee, taking nature walks, drawing or sketching in my notebook, getting my own workout routine in, daydreaming and binging on classic spaghetti western films.
Who do you look up to and why? Barry Sanders. Humble and classy. Fun to watch! Team Player. Every time he scored a touchdown he would just hand the ball off to the nearest referee. It was never about him. The GOAT!
Guilty Indulgence: A Very large bowl of Tillamook mint chocolate chip ice cream with some pecans, banana slices and chocolate syrup drizzled on top.
If you were a superhero, who would you be and why: Aquaman. Does that also mean I get to become Jason Momoa too?
Rather it be the ocean, lake or river, I always find water to be so calming. The Oregon Coast is one of my favorite places to visit. Growing up as a kid my mom was always blown away with my swimming abilities at the local pool and even now I still consider myself to be a strong swimmer. Add to this the ability of Aquaman to communicate with marine mammals and his environmental efforts to keep the ocean clean, you can see why Aquaman would be such a desirable choice for me.
