About Us
Here, Every Rep Counts.
We always say every rep counts. Each rep is a chance to make progress; each rep gets you one step closer to reaching your fitness or performance goals.
Our entire staff is trained—and certified—to provide the best instruction on sports performance and exercise science.
Dean Bryan, Co-Owner
A true Pittsburgh native and former college football player, Dean has two decades of experience as a youth and collegiate athletic trainer. He'll push you hard. But with his humor and wit, there's no such thing as a boring session.
Favorite Exercise: Squat
Favorite Sport: Football
Joe Lasky, Trainer
Joe played college football at McKendree University in Lebanon, IL, where he was an offensive lineman. He joined The Grind as our first intern—and later first hire! Joe's dedication translates to his day to day training and his creation of our lineman-specific program.
Favorite Exercise: Deadlift
Favorite Sport: Football
Ashley Mann, Office Manager
Ashley has been a critical member of The Grind team for nearly three years! She's the glue, making sure our trainers, athletes, and clients are comfortable in an environment where they can succeed. From social media to customer service, Ashley has us covered.
Favorite Exercise: Jumping Jacks
Favorite Sport: Hockey
Nick Niehaus, Trainer
Nick competed in track and field at Centre College earning 10 All-Conference accolades and still holds the 400m hurdle school record.
As the former head coach at Webster University, he brings seven years of collegiate track coaching and strength and conditioning experience to the Grind. Nick is passionate about developing people and helping them reach their goals!
Favorite Sport: Track and Field
Favorite Exercise: Deadlift
Chico Orlando, Co-Owner
As a tight end, Chico led Truman State University in touchdowns during his final season. Since Truman, Chico has leveraged his Exercise Science degree to become certified in physiology as well as strength and conditioning. When he's not at The Grind, Chico's definitely lounging at home with his little boy and girl.
Favorite Exercise: Bench Press
Favorite Sport: Football
Jason Rothweiler, Trainer
Jason was a 4-year starter on the St. Pius X High School soccer team. His love for soccer has grown into a love for fitness. Jason is certified through the National Academy of Sports Medicine, and you can often find him posting High Intensity Interval Training tutorials on social.
Favorite Exercise: Russian Deadlift
Favorite Sport: Soccer
Debra Shields
Debra is an amateur boxer who took 2nd place in ringside world tournament in the novice division, 2017 St. Louis Golden Glove Champion open division. She's had 15 fights with 8 wins! Debra plans to go pro after she has her baby.
Debra has been a boxer and fitness coach for 3.5 years. What makes her most passionate about coaching is that she is able to help people meet their fitness goals and feel great in life!
Favorite Exercise: HIIT
Favorite Sport: Boxing
Tyler Steinkamp, Trainer
Simply put, Tyler is a technician. While at Lindenwood University, he competed on the Olympic Weightlifting Team. He also earned a B.S. in Excercise Science with a minor in Fitness Management and Wellness. Need random trivia facts? Ask Tyler about Juraissic Park.
Favorite Exercise: Power Clean
Favorite Sport: Olympic Weightlifting