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Our Team

Kathleen Scharf​

Kathleen Scharf​​

Originally from Bridgeport, Connecticut, I bring over 40 years of experience as a business owner, along with the past 10 years dedicated to the healthcare and fitness industry.

To me, Physical Freedom is personal—it reflects how you want to feel and function in your body, not just how you look. It’s the confidence to take on life without physical limitations.

I co-founded Elevate because I’ve experienced injuries and setbacks firsthand and understand how discouraging that process can be. I wanted to create a space where people can move freely, recover fully, and reach their true potential. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing someone achieve more than they ever thought possible.

Fun Facts

  • Have scored an albatross, but still chasing a hole-in-one
  • Retired three times...the fourth isn’t happening anytime soon
  • Got lost at Disney at age 7 and still remembers the ice cream at the fire station on Main Street
  • Favorite musician is Prince, with Bruno Mars as a close second
  • Have performed as nearly every major character in The Wizard of Oz—except Dorothy, mostly as a dancer
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Brian Chandler

Brian Chandler

Originally from South Florida, I’ve been in the sports performance and healthcare industry since 2012, helping people move better, recover, and perform at a higher level.

To me, Physical Freedom is the ability to do what you want with your body without limitation. Movement health is something you can’t take for granted—when you lose it, it can feel like you lose a part of yourself. Our mission is to help people reclaim that.

From a young age, I knew I wanted to help people, but I wasn’t sure in what capacity. While I considered medical school, I found myself more connected to a model of care focused on building toward your future self. The process of growth—working toward the version of yourself you believe is possible—is something I’ve always valued. I feel fortunate to do that every day at Elevate, alongside a team that truly extends care beyond the walls of the facility.

Education & Certifications

  • BS – Human Performance (FGCU)
  • Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT)
  • Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)
  • Titleist Performance Institute (TPI): Level 1–3
  • Fitness, Level 2 Medical
  • Fascial Stretch Therapy Level 1
  • Active Release Techniques (Full Body)
  • Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS)
  • 4x Golf Digest Top 50 Fitness Trainers in America

Fun Facts

  • Proud dad and husband with a two-year-old daughter, Sofia
  • Can solve a Rubik’s Cube
  • Took tequila shots at the altar at my wedding
  • Sat next to David Blaine on a flight—he performed card tricks for 2 hours
  • Sang the national anthem at a Mets game
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Austin Mennen

Austin Mennen

Originally from Cedar Falls, Iowa, I’ve been in the health and performance industry for six years. My background as a multi-sport athlete in football and rugby first introduced me to chiropractic care and sparked my interest in how the body performs, recovers, and adapts.

To me, Physical Freedom means being able to do more of what you want and need to do—training hard, recovering well, and showing up fully for the people and activities that matter most.

My goal as a chiropractor and performance-based provider is to bridge the gap between rehab and training, helping people address the root cause of their limitations so they can move better, train harder, and stay active for decades.

Education & Certifications

  • BS – General Science
  • Doctor of Chiropractic – Palmer College of Chiropractic
  • Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician (CCSP)

Fun Facts

  • Competitive powerlifter training for a 1,000 lb squat
  • Played rugby for 8 years
  • Proud pet dad to two dogs and a cat
  • Married to a Nurse-Midwife
  • Works with patients ranging from babies to elite athletes
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Chris LoConti

Chris LoConti

Originally from Gilbert, Arizona (born in Cincinnati, Ohio, but grew up in Phoenix), I’ve been in the health and fitness industry for 10 years, helping people and athletes move better, build strength, and stay injury-free.

To me, Physical Freedom means not being held back physically—having the ability to do anything you want in life without limitation.

After injuries prevented me from pursuing professional sports, coaching became my way to stay connected to the game and help others avoid—or recover from—serious injuries. My mission is to promote healthy, active lifestyles through functional strength, proper nutrition, and injury prevention so individuals and athletes can perform their best and thrive.

Education & Certifications

  • BA – Exercise Science, Exercise Specialist
  • CSCS – Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist
  • CSAC – Certified Speed & Agility Coach

Fun Facts

  • Superhero tattoo
  • Can touch my nose with my tongue
  • Seven sport-related surgeries (five on my lower body)
  • Stayed on the same hotel floor as the current president by chance
  • Huge David Beckham fan
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Francis Hoare

Francis Hoare​

Originally from New York, I’ve been in the health and performance industry since 2014 and joined the Elevate team in 2018. I’m passionate about helping people build strength, improve performance, and enjoy everything life has to offer.

To me, Physical Freedom means having the energy and ability to make the most of every day—whether that’s keeping up with my daughters, exploring the mountains, or lifting and running to manage stress.

My goal as a coach is simple: help people chase their goals and be proud of what their body can do, whether that’s performing in sport, tackling a bucket-list adventure, or simply feeling their best.

Education & Certifications

  • Certified Functional Strength Coach (CFSC)
  • Titleist Performance Institute (TPI) Level 1

Fun Facts

  • Formerly worked with the New York Giants and attended the 2012 Super Bowl
  • Proud girl dad to two daughters
  • Inaugural Elevate Fantasy Football League champion
  • Promised my grandma I’d only stay in Vegas a few years (that was 2012)
  • I’ve been growing the same playoff beard ever since
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Rob Ortiz

Rob Ortiz​

Originally from Denver, Colorado, I’ve been working in sports performance and healthcare since 2006 and have been medically licensed since 2012. Throughout my career, I’ve worked with everyone from everyday active individuals to high-performance athletes and performers.

To me, Physical Freedom means having the ability and confidence to move, live, and perform without limitation. It’s not just about getting out of pain—it’s about having a clear plan and the support needed to stay active for the long run.

My approach is simple: listen closely, assess thoroughly, and create a plan you can trust so you leave with clarity and a path forward.

Education & Certifications

  • BS – Athletic Training (UNLV)
  • MSc – Sports Medicine (University of Colorado)
  • NASM PES, CES, CWC
  • Functional Dry Needling
  • BFR Certified
  • NKT Level 1
  • Graston M1
  • DNS Trained

Fun Facts

  • Fluent in English and Spanish
  • Traveled to 95+ countries
  • Family is from Puerto Rico
  • Learned to swim at 36,
  • Proud dog dad to two American Cocker Spaniels
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Kadie Miller

Kadie Miller

Originally from Las Vegas, I’ve been in the health and performance industry for the past 10 years. I’m passionate about helping people build healthy habits, improve nutrition, and develop the strength and capacity to fully enjoy life.

To me, Physical Freedom means being able to say yes to life—whether that’s running a marathon with a friend, hiking to Everest Base Camp, carrying a couch upstairs, or jumping into a pickleball tournament.

I became a coach because I love helping people solve everyday challenges—from back pain to nutrition to building strength and confidence in their bodies.

Education & Certifications

  • Institute for Integrative Nutrition Health Coach
  • Precision Nutrition Level 1
  • CrossFit L1
  • Brookbush Personal Training
  • Mat Pilates
  • Currently pursuing: MS in Applied Nutrition & Dietetics

Fun Facts

  • I have a twin
  • I’ve lived in Spain and Belize
  • I love Hot Cheetos
  • My favorite exercise is pull-ups
  • I’m obsessed with pickleball
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Anthony Peters

Anthony Peters​

Originally from Colorado Springs, Colorado, I spent the past five years in Fargo, North Dakota before moving here in August. I entered the health and performance industry about a year ago after completing an internship and continuing to coach through the summer of 2025.

To me, Physical Freedom means having the ability to do what you want, when you want, without worrying about pain or limitations. Whether that’s running, jumping, keeping up with your kids, or getting back to activities you love, having a body that supports your life is incredibly powerful.

My passion for coaching started through sports and time spent in the weight room growing up. Seeing how strength and pain-free movement can help people live fuller, happier lives is what drives me every day.

Education & Certifications

  • BS in Exercise Science – North Dakota State University
  • Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) | CPR & First Aid Certified

Fun Facts

  • Ambidextrous
  • Colorado 4A Triple Jump State Champion (2x)
  • Played on the USA U14 Team Handball Team in Sweden
  • Makes homemade kombucha and yogurt
  • Always wanted to be a redhead like my dad
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Zack Trageton

Zack Trageton

Originally from Las Vegas, Nevada, I’ve been in the health and fitness industry for 3 years, helping people and athletes move better, build strength, and stay injury-free.

To me, Physical Freedom is providing you with the opportunity to do what you love to do for as long as you want without discomfort.

I became a Coach to help young athletes succeed at the highest level of sport and to support others in reaching their full potential—both in and outside of our walls. My mission is to guide individuals and athletes toward lasting physical freedom through proper training, injury prevention, and holistic care.

Education & Certifications

  • Certified Personal Trainer (CPT)

Fun Facts

  • Played professional baseball for 6 years
  • Pursuing a degree in Sports Psychology
  • Love to travel
  • Avid golfer
  • Have a Chocolate Lab named Mila
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Zoe Albright

Zoe Albright

Originally from Stillwater, Minnesota, I’ve called Las Vegas home for the past 37 years. I’ve spent more than 35 years in the fitness industry helping people stay active, strong, and capable at every stage of life.

To me, Physical Freedom evolves as we move through life. It’s the ability to fully enjoy the adventures life offers without hesitation or limitation.

I’ve been passionate about sports and training since I was 14. Movement is where the world makes sense to me, and I love helping people discover that staying active makes life better—no matter your age. After all, life is a sport, and we have to train for it, especially as we get older.

Education & Certifications

  • ACE Certified Personal Trainer
  • ACE Group Fitness Instructor
  • Pilates Mat Certified
  • 200-Hour Yoga Instructor
  • Precision Nutrition Level 1
  • FST Level 1
  • ACE Senior Strength & Fitness
  • Sleep, Stress & Recovery Certification

Fun Facts

  • Mentored Brian Chandler during his college personal training internship
  • Most experienced (and oldest) member of the Elevate team
  • 20-year Red Cross disaster first responder volunteer
  • Celebrates birthdays with a run/cycle equal to my age
  • Certified therapy dog partner with my dog Lucy
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Jai Buchanan

Jai Buchanan

Originally from Florida, I’ve been in the fitness and performance industry for 10 years, helping people move better, train smarter, and reach their goals.

To me, Physical Freedom means having access to the right movement options so the body can perform everyday activities—or specialized skills—without limitation.

I became a coach because fitness has given me mental clarity, a sense of control, and a life beyond the gym, and I’m passionate about helping others experience the same benefits on their own journey.

Education & Certifications

  • BS – Healthcare Management
  • NASM Certified Personal Trainer (CPT)
  • TPI Level 1 & Level 2 Medical
  • Golf Digest Fitness Trainer
  • 200-Hour Yoga Alliance Teacher

Fun Facts

  • Didn’t play organized sports until college
  • Lived in Europe for a year
  • Plays three instruments
  • Loves line dancing
  • Has a lifelong friend since kindergarten
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Allie Kakiva

Allie Kakiva

Originally from San Jose, California, I’ve been in the health and fitness industry for 4 years, helping people move better, stay active, and enjoy life without limitations.

To me, Physical Freedom means moving the way you want and living freely—without worrying about your body holding you back from the things you love.

I became a coach to help others reach their goals, improve performance, and feel confident in their bodies.

Education & Certifications

  • BS – Kinesiology, Exercise Science
  • MS – Kinesiology, Sports Management

Fun Facts

  • Played basketball for 12 years
  • Mom to fraternal twins
  • An only child
  • New to living in Las Vegas after leaving my hometown
  • Have never been out of the country—but it’s on my bucket list!
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Tami Fernandez

Tami Fernandez

Originally from Central Florida, I’ve spent 25 years in the health and performance industry, helping people move better, stay strong, and perform at their best.

To me, Physical Freedom means having a body that responds to the demands placed on it—strength, flexibility, agility, and endurance—all in a pain-free state so you can meet life’s challenges head-on.

My career began as a professional dancer, and transitioning into Athletic Training and Massage Therapy has allowed me to stay connected to performance, working with people who share a passion for movement and understanding their bodies.

Education & Certifications

  • Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT)
  • Licensed Athletic Trainer (LAT)
  • BS in Sports Injury Management

Fun Facts

  • Classically trained dancer for 16 years
  • Worked on a cruise ship traveling the world
  • Lived and worked in Egypt
  • Parent to 3 children and 3 dogs
  • Enjoys downtime in my small orchard
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Brad Thompson

Brad Thompson

Born and raised in Las Vegas, I’ve been in the health and fitness industry for 13 years, helping people move better, improve performance, and reach their goals.

To me, Physical Freedom means being able to do what you want without your body holding you back.

Fitness transformed my golf game and my life, and I’m passionate about helping others experience the same impact.

Education & Certifications

  • NASM CPT
  • TPI Level 2 Fitness & Power
  • Human Matrix
  • FRCms
  • Bioforce CCC

Fun Facts

  • One of Elevate’s first coaches
  • Youngest of three siblings
  • Scored a double eagle (still chasing that hole-in-one!)
  • Dog with a hilarious overbite
  • All my daughters’ and dog’s names are three letters: Rya, Ivy, Pua
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A collective of Chiropractors, Physical Therapists, Sports Medicine, Performance Training, Personal Training, Massage Therapists, and Nutrition for your health and fitness.

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Elevate Sports Performance & Healthcare Las Vegas

6658 W Sunset Rd, Suite 170
Las Vegas, NV 89118

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