Our Instructors
Angie O'Brien (Co-Owner)
How has yoga changed your life?
I would say that yoga changed everything about my life. š I am happier, I am more present in my own life and I hope I am helping others to find more happiness in their lives too.
Why do you enjoy teaching at Harbor Yoga?
Ain't no yoga like Harbor Yoga! Watching people step out of their comfort zone, give a little more of themselves on the mat and seeing a difference in their strength of body and mind as well. Mostly, meeting the incredible people who happened to find their way to our studio.
What are your favorite hobbies and interests outside of yoga?
Mike and our two boys are my FAVORITE interest, but I also enjoy reading self help books (nerd) and watching NETFLIX (ha!). My passion is in the work I am able to do with the Heinzerling Foundation to help severely mentally and physically disabled children and adults, as well as my work on the Leadership Committee for the Columbus Walk to End Alzheimerās.
Heidi Bell (Co-Owner)
How has yoga changed your life?
Always an active person, playing field hockey then running and eventually teaching spinning, I fell in love with yoga; like, literally fell ... over ... The first class was so hard! I loved that you could sweat and workout while stretching and challenging different muscles.
Why do you enjoy teaching at Harbor Yoga?
I love Harbor and being at the studio because I love our vibe--fun people, fun music and great classes! There is nothing better than looking around in class and thinking, this is so crazy hard and we are all doing this together. Clients have become friends and how great is it that we get to workout/suffer all together day after day!
What are your favorite hobbies and interests outside of yoga?
Our kids play sports and I enjoy watching them on the fields and in the hockey rink. I love our family trips abroad to watch the kids surf and I look forward to the summer trips to Michigan. I hate running but I do it.
Erin Lewis (Studio Manager)
How has yoga changed your life?
Yoga taught me to breathe! No matter how crazy my day is, an hour on the mat at Harbor calms my mind. Yoga also gives me a sense of accomplishment and confidence! No other workout challenges me like a class at Harbor!
Why do you enjoy teaching at Harbor Yoga?
Harbor is such a unique and special studio! The heat, music, and instructors create an environment you canāt find anywhere else. I feel privileged to be a part of that and to share it with others.
What are your favorite hobbies and interests outside of yoga?
I enjoy spending time with my family! Iām often running kids to sporting events or church activities. I also enjoy teaching kickboxing and strength classes.
Abi Dalesandro
How has yoga changed your life?
Yoga is āmeditation in motionā for me. During the time Iām on my mat Iām focused on my breath and the poses, and for that hour, I can clear my mind of all the to-do lists and outside noise. Yoga has improved my life ā mind and body.
Why do you enjoy teaching at Harbor Yoga?
I love the sense of community at Harbor Yoga and Iām excited to be able to contribute to that in some small way. My goal is always to make the poses accessible for a first-time student while challenging the more experienced one, all while offering the power and energy that makes Harbor Yoga special.
What are your favorite hobbies and interests outside of yoga?
I love spending time with my husband and two sons, baking, reading and Ohio State Buckeyes football. Iām also lucky to have a career I truly enjoy as an attorney working with real estate and small business clients.
Ainsley Lawler
How has yoga changed your life?
Yoga has not only made me physically stronger, but has also given me an outlet to relax! The music, the people, and the overall energy at Harbor always makes me happy. After being a dancer all throughout high school, immersing myself in the practice of yoga felt super natural to me.
Why do you enjoy teaching at Harbor Yoga?
The environment at Harbor is the best! I love meeting all the people who take my classes. It is so rewarding when someone finishes a class and has a smile on their face.
What are your favorite hobbies and interests outside of yoga?
Iām currently studying English at Ohio State University! Outside of being a student I love to spend time with friends and family, go out to dinner, and go on long walks.
Andi Cornwall
How has yoga changed your life?
āA yoga class a day keeps the doctor awayā, yoga simply gave me my life back. After years of physical therapy and chiropractors with not much improvement, I became discouraged. It was yoga that made me feel better and regain my optimistic view of life again. It gave me the tools to deal with stress and connected me back to my body. I simply could not imagine life without yoga.
Why do you enjoy teaching at Harbor Yoga?
The second you walk into Harbor Yoga you can feel the magic. It is full of smiling faces. I enjoy building such rich relationships with fellow Harbor Yogiās. Working for Harbor is a privilege and a rewarding experience. Once you leave the studio you just crave to come back because it is that inviting.
What are your favorite hobbies and interests outside of yoga?
I spend most of my time with my family: husband, two kids, two fish tanks, two dogs, and two cats. I also enjoy volunteering at the Dublin Food Pantry. My other hobbies are hanging out with friends, gardening, biking, dancing, sewing, and karaoke.
Alyson Sullivan
How has yoga changed your life?
Although I was always fit and felt strong, yoga challenged me to use my strength in different ways and always presented a new physical goal. [Now], other workouts were always repetitive. Simply put each class is a challenge!
Why do you enjoy teaching at Harbor Yoga?
I love the idea that all are welcome, all levels are encouraged to come and work at their own pace. The classes are challenging for every level but open to everyone who wants to try a strong flow in the heat!
What are your favorite hobbies and interests outside of yoga?
Now that my family is growing and [out] to college and high school, my favorite interest is family time when we can all be together. Other interests are working with young and underprivileged mothers and pregnant women, guiding them through the process and making their home safe for baby.
Cameron Jenkins
How has yoga changed your life?
Not only has yoga pushed me to my limits physically, it has also helped me improve my mental health. I have always struggled with anxiety, and Harbor Yoga helps me forget about the worries of life and find an hour of presence. Because of yoga l feel stronger, more confident and am better able to self regulate in situations of adversity. It truly is a great outlet to relieve stress and fosters holistic health.
Why do you enjoy teaching at Harbor Yoga?
Teaching at Harbor has led me to meet so many unique and genuine individuals. The relaxed environment eliminates comparison, and encourages you to find your own limits. Being an instructor here is an honor. I love the creativity that accompanies formatting classes and find it fulfilling to encourage others to push themselves.
What are your favorite hobbies and interests outside of yoga?
Beyond yoga I enjoy spending time with my family and 2 dogs, going to Pilates classes and crafting. I spend a lot of my time studying, and am preparing to begin law school at Capital University. I am an avid lover of leggings, coffee and The Office.
Caroline Forrest
How has yoga changed your life?
Yoga has brought such joy to my life. It has increased my flexibility and made me so much stronger. There is no better therapy after a bad day than to come to Harbor, let the music and the movement take over, and leave it all on the mat.
Why do you enjoy teaching at Harbor Yoga?
Teaching at Harbor is my favorite part of my week. There is such a strong and infectious energy at Harbor that motivates you to work harder, and it is such a great feeling being able to provide that energy to everyone.
What are your favorite hobbies and interests outside of yoga?
Outside of yoga, I work in advertising sales for Orange Barrel Media. I also enjoy spending time in the kitchen! I am very passionate about food, and work part time on my dessert catering company, Sweet Caroline's. I also enjoy doing other forms of fitness training, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.
Carrie Carducci
How has yoga changed your life?
Yoga and I have grown up together. Yoga provided me with a new athletic challenge after my college running career. Yoga taught me different strength and flexibility practices that I could apply to my clients as a strength coach. Now, yoga gives me time to myself amidst the chaos of raising my 3 ridiculous and amazing little people.
Why do you enjoy teaching at Harbor Yoga?
Harbor is my favorite place to practice; the people, the music, the heat, the workout, it's all part of the atmosphere that keeps people coming back. I love teaching because I get to be a small part of making people's day better. It's a privilege and it's fun!
What are your favorite hobbies and interests outside of yoga?
I love cancelling plans, constantly cleaning and doing laundry, cooking dinners no one likes, drinking wine, and cussing under my breath. I also love running, being outside, reading, watching my kids go for their goals, and hanging with my husband, and our friends and family.
Colleen Mathews
How has yoga changed your life?
Yoga may be the greatest thing I have ever done for myself! It helps bring clarity to me about what is important in my life. There is a sense of healing for me both emotionally and physically.
Why do you enjoy teaching at Harbor Yoga?
I never really enjoyed yoga until I found Harbor and then it was life changing for me. Teaching here is amazing; the friendships we have built here with each other and our clients are one of a kind. I am inspired by all of you. š
What are your favorite hobbies and interests outside of yoga?
I love to play tennis especially when I win! LOL ... Love to cook with family and friends. I enjoy doing home improvement projects. Mostly, I enjoy spending time with my family and watching Emma, Connor and Sophie play their sports.
Emily Lebsock
How has yoga changed your life?
Movement in general has always been the best way for me to think clearly and re-center myself when I get too anxious or stressed, it truly is my happy place. I am utterly grateful that my little sister (and fellow instructor Sarah Lebsock), brought me into the magical world that is yoga at Harbor (if you know, you certainly know). Yoga has taught me so many things, it has allowed me to slow down and be a place where I feel free to truly be myself. A place to clear my mind and to get away from all the chaos that happens outside of the studio.
Why do you enjoy teaching at Harbor Yoga?
My first class went to I knew this was the place for me, it is the perfect balance of strength and calm all wrapped up with the most amazing kind hearted humans. You walk into the door and instantly feel at home, there is simply no place like it, the energy alone is beyond inspiring. It is a place where you can be whatever you are in that day, to give whatever you can in that moment. I never felt like I had to be the champion of yoga, I could be myself and enjoy the practice that felt right for me that day. To have the opportunity to hold space for people, to allow them to also have that chance to feel the way I always have is something I love more than words! Everyone is truly welcome and accepted as they are!
What are your favorite hobbies and interests outside of yoga?
Outside of yoga you can catch me with my not so little meatball of a dog Winifred. If the weather is nice I like to be out riding dirt bikes in the woods with my friends as much as I possibly can! I also am so fortunate to have the best family anyone could ask for and love to hang out with them every chance I get, and we certainly love a themed birthday situation! Other than that ya girl loves dancing like the inflatable balloon guy at your local car dealership!
Gabriela Alvarez
How has yoga changed your life?
Yoga has brought a balance between strength and flexibility. It has taught me to not take myself too seriously (on and off the mat), and to never be afraid of trying new things.
Why do you enjoy teaching at Harbor Yoga?
People are very easy going, friendly and they come to get a good workout, to have fun at the beat of our own drum... or music š
What are your favorite hobbies and interests outside of yoga?
Anything outdoors, hiking and exploring new routes off the trail are a big one, traveling, camping, and if I were closer to the ocean, going to the beach (my happy place) also rock-wall climbing.
Jenn Bajec
How has yoga changed your life?
They say the only constant thing in life is change ... for me yoga has consistently helped me adapt to those changes while feeling centered, strong and resilient.
From my first yoga class, which I took as an undergrad at OSU, to rebuilding my core strength after my kids were born, to stabilizing myself as I balance the demands of a career with raising my own family, my yoga practice has changed to support my needs as much as I have.
Why do you enjoy teaching at Harbor Yoga?
I love the people drawn to Harbor and the awesome community here! Teaching lets me have a deeper connection to all the students and teachers, and supporting them throughout their own evolving practice brings me so much joy. š
What are your favorite hobbies and interests outside of yoga?
Paleo cooking, traveling & celebrating with family, making stuff, designing, writing, gardening, hiking, strength training, and loving my Morkie.
Joey Tracy
How has yoga changed your life?
I discovered yoga in my search for help with a health issue that didnāt involve more medication and Drs. appointments. While I did find what I was looking for health wise, an unexpected surprise was the ability to find an untapped source of strength, both physically and mentally, for life away from my mat. While I cannot control what happens to me, I can control my reaction and that is true strength.
Why do you enjoy teaching at Harbor Yoga?
Teaching at Harbor is such a gift. Itās an inviting studio that welcomes everyone. From the moment you walk through our doors, I\we hope you feel that you have found a place to leave your cares and for 60 minutes focus on reconnecting and recharging with the person who needs you most, YOU.
What are your favorite hobbies and interests outside of yoga?
In addition to my passion for teaching yoga, I own a small skincare business. Iām married and have a daughter and 2 step children. We enjoy traveling, golf and the Buckeyes.
Julia Cooper
How has yoga changed your life?
Yoga has been a constant for me for several years; and in my late 20’s, it is more than ever a cornerstone of my life. Yoga offers a holistic approach to exercise because it challenges you physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. I am a better person because I practice!
Why do you enjoy teaching at Harbor Yoga?
HY honors all of the principles of yoga that are most important to me. Creativity and individuality are celebrated; focus and deep breaths are encouraged. Every single time I walk into the studio, I am greeted by a community of people just happy to be there. Oh, and I love the heat and loud music!
What are your favorite hobbies and interests outside of yoga?
I spend lots of time with my significant other (also a Harbor yogi) and cat. I love time spent outside, especially when itās sunny. Most of my family and close friends live in town, so I am often running around with them. My day-job is as a Genetic Counselor, which I am very passionate about.
Kari Palmer
How has yoga changed your life?
Why do you enjoy teaching at Harbor Yoga?
I love the style and the people at Harbor. You connect your mind to your body AND sweat your butt off! The students at Harbor, no matter the level, are there to grow and challenge themselves. I connect with the student's mindset. I am inspired by the ownership, my fellow instructors and ALL the students. I've been in the service industry my whole career (over 25 years). As an instructor, I have the honor of serving people in a more meaningful way than ever before in my life.
What are your favorite hobbies and interests outside of yoga?
My daughter Zoey and my husband Marc are my two favorite people. We love to travel, try new foods, watch TV, read and just be silly, ask me about our two song dance parties sometime. I also enjoy spending time with friends and family.
Katie Pardi
How has yoga changed your life?
I took my first yoga class when I was 19 as a student at Ohio State. Then about two years later, I walked into this loft studio with big windows, music blaring and it was hot as hell. The instructor at the front had a friendly smile but gave firm instructions, ā20,000 push ups! š Letās go!ā And in that moment I thought this is it! This is exactly what I didnāt know I was looking for! I was hooked!
My life has changed in so many ways since that time with many bumps in the road (a few of them were good bumps). But my attendance to yoga has been constant, it has to be, it is a part of who I am!
Why do you enjoy teaching at Harbor Yoga?
I know I can make it through whatever my week will throw at me, knowing I get to come teach on Fridays!
The fact that people show up -- taking time out of their busy schedules -- to attend my class inspires me to make it challenging yet fun, so when they leave they feel like they made the best decision to come to Harbor and not go somewhere else for a workout!
What are your favorite hobbies and interests outside of yoga?
We have the hardest-working and friendliest clients in town!
Kelli Cantwell
How has yoga changed your life?
Yoga has brought so much happiness to my life! It continues to challenge me mentally and physically every day. Yoga has taught me the importance of dedicating time to yourself. I love the sweat, the heat, and the music... itās the best part of my day!
Why do you enjoy teaching yoga at Harbor?
Absolutely everythingā¦there is nothing else like it!! Harbor welcomes all levels with big smiles and by the end of class, each person leaves feeling strong and empowered. The atmosphere Angie and Heidi have created is electrifying and inspiring. I am super grateful to be a part of this amazing community and it is truly a privilege to teach here.
What are your favorite hobbies and interests outside of yoga?
Outside of yoga, I enjoy working as a nurse at Nationwide Childrenās Hospital. Helping care for patients and their families brings such joy to my heart. I also love running in the warm months, reading books, and spending time with friends and family!
Kellie Harrington
How has yoga changed your life?
As a runner, yoga has added the perfect balance; I've noticed significant improvements in my fitness, stamina, recovery and most importantly attitude. I've never been as challenged as I am during a class at Harbor, and the accomplishment of completing a class transfers to all other fitness related activities I try and work/life balance in general.
Why do you enjoy teaching at Harbor Yoga?
[The] classes are "not your traditional yoga" which is exactly what I love. Aside from the classes being challenging and upbeat, a theme at the studio is to not take yourself so seriously, which is a great reminder to everyone. Harbor is a truly welcoming place, and became my comfort zone when I moved to Columbus seven years ago.
What are your favorite hobbies and interests outside of yoga?
I love spending time with my family! My husband Dan and my little girl Lola - together we love to travel, we love trying new food and cooking, running, and outdoor activities like hiking and skiing. I also love fashion and am co-owner of Birch in Old Worthington, a women's clothing boutique that also features accessories, shoes, home goods and giftables.
Kristin Deam
How has yoga changed your life?
Yoga helped me to become aware and more in tune with myself. Mind and body. This has allowed me to work towards my best self so I can show up for everyone in my life. Yoga lead me to my purpose in like to elevate and inspire lives.
Why do you enjoy teaching at Harbor Yoga?
I found a home at Harbor when I first started working at LuluLemon and it was love at first sweat. I love the workout but most importantly the people, the students, teachers and this community. There is an energy like nowhere else. Itās inspiring, challenging, and loving.
What are your favorite hobbies and interests outside of yoga?
Travel, weightlifting, kickboxing, HIIT, hiking, anything sweaty!
Leah Stein
How has yoga changed your life?
Yoga has been a constant presence in my life starting back to when I was twelve taking my first yoga class at Harbor to now in my early twenties as a yoga instructor. Yoga has taught me how to be a more understanding, kinder, and calmer human being.
Why do you enjoy teaching at Harbor Yoga?
The mix of heat, music, and people make Harbor truly one of a kind. I love teaching at Harbor to allow others to find their space, breathe, and focus on the present.
What are your favorite hobbies and interests outside of yoga?
Outside of yoga, I spend time with family and friends, but most times with a good book. I enjoy rock climbing, running, and basically all other forms of fitness!
Lori Mesaros
How has yoga changed your life?
I am more mindful and life is more harmonious with yoga!
Why do you enjoy teaching at Harbor Yoga?
Itās just FUN! Yoga at Harbor has also introduced me to an entirely new network of friends.
What are your favorite hobbies and interests outside of yoga?
Outside of yoga, I love to read and hang out with my family.
Meg Zimpfer
How has yoga changed your life?
Yoga helps keep my mind clear, my body strong, and my heart full!
Why do you enjoy teaching yoga at Harbor?
Teaching at Harbor is such a privilege! Angie and Heidi are beautiful, strong, and inspiring women! Whether taking a class or teaching a class - you feel like part of the Harbor Family!
What are your favorite hobbies and interests outside of yoga?
Sports, sports, sports ... I love watching my kids play sports, the Columbus Blue Jackets and Columbus Crew.
Molly Prosser
How has yoga changed your life?
Yoga brings out the better (slightly) calmer version of me. One that is more focused and centered.
Why do you enjoy teaching at Harbor Yoga?
Our family of awesome, really down-to-earth, cool instructors, and our clients! From our die-hard regulars that we see every week -- multiple times -- to our brand new first-timers. I love the enthusiasm of a first timer has after they experience (and love) their first class.
What are your favorite hobbies and interests outside of yoga?
Running, travel, walking my dogs with my husband, spending time with family.
Paige Hartley
How has yoga changed your life?
As a dancer, I crave exercise that encompasses flexibility, strength, and balance. Yoga is a perfect fit. What I didn't expect was the sense of calm and wholeness that I have gained. My body and mind are truly healthier with a regular yoga practice.
Why do you enjoy teaching at Harbor Yoga?
The energy at Harbor is electric. I start getting excited for class in my car on the drive over. The heat, the music, the people; there is nothing like quite like it. It's my happy place.
What are your favorite hobbies and interests outside of yoga?
I love riding horses and attending music events with my husband. Most of my time is spent with our beautiful daughters and our spoiled rotten dogs.
Samantha Coughlin
How has yoga changed your life?
Yoga has brought so much positivity to my life; the true definition of bringing Mind, Body, and Spirit together. For me, Yoga is EVERYTHING! No matter what is going on in my life as a wife, mother or friend, yoga brings me back to where I want to be.
Why do you enjoy teaching at Harbor Yoga?
Harbor yoga has created such an amazing community of people that I could not be more honored to be a part of. For me, teaching is about bringing the 'Harbor Way' of yoga to others in a way that Angie and Heidi had brought yoga to me. To be centered in who I am, strong and confident. Helping others along their journey to find a healthier self is also something I am truly passionate about.
What are your favorite hobbies and interests outside of yoga?
I enjoy being a Mother, Wife, and Friend above all else. I love running outside with our two Labrador retrievers (Riley & Nala), riding bikes with my daughter Carly, and hitting the drag strip on the weekend with my husband Jeg! I am passionate about health and nutrition and my mantra is to spread love and kindness to all.
Sarah Lebsock
How has yoga changed your life?
Yoga gave me peace and time to be still when my life was seemingly out of control. It makes me a kinder, more aware, overall better human. Beyond the physical benefits, yoga gave my mind a place to just stop thinking for a moment and focus on whatās right in front of me.
Why do you enjoy teaching at Harbor Yoga?
Harbor Yoga is a studio for everyone. From the moment I walked in the lobby for my first class, it felt like I knew everyone in the room without judgement. Thereās yogaā¦ then thereās HARBOR YOGA. If you know, then you know. I enjoy helping people escape their hectic day to day for the hour they are on their mats and help them leave refreshed for whatever comes next! You will never leave this place without improving your physical or mental wellbeing, I promise you that.
What are your favorite hobbies and interests outside of yoga?
I am lucky enough to say my family is full of my favorite people, so any time I can spend with them, I do. Past that, I compete and show horses competitively all over the country on the American Quarter Horse Association circuit. So, if I am not with my family, youāll find me in a barn somewhere.
Shannen Rook
How has yoga changed your life?
I know this sounds clichƩ, but through practicing and teaching yoga I have been able to find a more balanced sense of physical and mental self. The physical practice provides me an outlet for flexibility and strengthening, undoing years of sports activities and other nonsense. Like everyone, my life is filled with crazy and yoga helps me to focus while getting an amazing workout.
Why do you enjoy teaching at Harbor Yoga?
The community, support and creativity is inspiring. It's HOT, challenging and it's close to my house so it's easy to pop over for class!
What are your favorite hobbies and interests outside of yoga?
I have enjoyed playing volleyball for over 30 years and continue to play from time to time. I am always up for new adventures whatever they may be!
Shawne Farley
How has yoga changed your life?
Life is busy for all of us! What I love about yoga is the intention in class to breathe and slow down, to listen to our bodies and relax our minds. Itās a beautiful thing when that can be achieved. I also believe in feeling comfortable taking fitness anywhere I go, and yoga can be practiced far beyond studio walls!
Why do you enjoy teaching at Harbor Yoga?
The community. From my very first class, everyone smiled, was friendly and talkative, and helped whenever I had a question. I remember my second class, feeling like āwow, they remember me!ā. You matter at Harbor, and that is priceless. Itās a warm feeling walking inside those doors!
What are your favorite hobbies and interest outside of yoga?
I love to workout! Itās been a part of my daily routine for as long as I can remember. After raising my 4 babies, I went back to study to become a personal trainer and fitness instructor. I feel so lucky to have found a career that is also my passion. Aside from the studio, I love to travel, host dinners with family and friends, have spontaneous dance parties, and jump at all chances to be near an ocean, lake, or pool.
Sophie Stidhem
How has yoga changed your life?
Yoga is the one thing I can do that completely removes all other distractions and allows me time to breathe and focus. It has not only improved my physical health, but more importantly, my mental health. Taking an hour for yourself is sometimes the best thing you can do for everyone around you.
Why do you enjoy teaching at Harbor Yoga?
The music, the heat, and the sweat. There is absolutely nothing better than coming out of a Harbor Yoga class feeling stronger than when you walked in. I love all the people at Harbor and the energy of the studio. I've been a student at Harbor since I was 14 and an instructor since college, it's been a part of my life for so long and is so important to me.
What are your favorite hobbies and interest outside of yoga?
Spending time with my family, running, walking my newfypoo, Winston! My day job is focused in Data Analytics, so I definitely nerd out on anything data related as well... good balance!
Sydney Novy
How has yoga changed your life?
As I have always enjoyed being active, yoga has really taught me to slow down and present within every moment of my life. Every yoga class still continues to push me to both my physical and mental limits. The constant challenge has allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and become more confident. I promise you, Harbor Yoga will make your day!
Why do you enjoy teaching at Harbor Yoga?
A yoga class with burpees? HELL YEAH!! Thereās no better place to be than Harbor Yoga! The high energy atmosphere mixed with some of the most kind hearted people really makes harbor yoga truly the best. Harbor yoga has become my second home!
What are your favorite hobbies and interest outside of yoga?
I recently just graduated from The Ohio State University and Iām currently working as a dental hygienist at a local office! I also enjoy traveling, trying new restaurants, and spending time with both my family and friends. Call me crazy but I also enjoy running!