
Meet Our Teachers
Our teachers are the heartbeat of the studio.
We are deeply dedicated to holding space for our students in a way that feels like home.

Cara Unrue
she/her
Owner, Senior Teacher
500hr E-RYT, YACEP
Trauma Informed
Reiki Level 2
Thai Yoga Massage Lvl 2
Sound Healing
Kripalu Yoga Nidra Teacher
Cara is passionate about any form of yoga that allows her to connect with herself, both body and mind. Some days that looks like powerfully physical practice, and other times it is softer and more introspective. Generally speaking, vinyasa style breath to movement classes have been what has helped her focus and turn inward, which is why she is eager to share this style with others.
She wants to create an atmosphere that is accepting of all yogis. Even if some postures in class look intimidating, she encourages everyone to jump in and have fun. Everyone starts somewhere, so she hopes to create an environment that is welcoming to those just starting out, as well as folks who have been practicing for several years.
Cara is always catching a flight to somewhere new and different. She loves to explore our planet to taste, try, and learn new things. She loves traveling to feel alive and truly connected to all living things. In addition to travel, she's a maker and an artist and loves caring for her houseplants and gardens.

Steph Jo Aud
she/her
Owner, Lead Teacher
500hr E-RYT, YACEP
eMBER Certified
Reiki Level 2
Sekoia Certified
Thai Yoga Massage Lvl 2
Sound Healing
Steph Jo loves creating vinyasa flow classes that connect breath, movement, and a little bit of play. Her sequences are creative, intentional, and often inspired by the students in each class, making every flow a little different from the last. She enjoys taking requests before class and thoughtfully weaving them into the practice, while incorporating breathwork and mindfulness throughout to honor yoga as more than just movement.
She believes yoga should feel welcoming, supportive, and free from expectations. Her hope is that students leave feeling more connected to themselves, a little lighter, and reminded that it's okay to laugh, wobble, and not take life so seriously.
Outside the studio, Steph Jo loves to travel and spend time with her husband and their dog, Ricky Bobby. Whether she's planning her next workshop or retreat, or enjoying a slow evening at home, she's happiest when she's making memories with the people she loves. And if there's a sunset drive and an ice cream stop involved, even better!

Julie Carmona
she/her
200hr Yoga Instructor
Julie ‘s passion for yoga centers on illuminating the sacred connection between our divine essence and authentic truth. With a gentle yet profound approach, she strives to create a space where individuals can explore and discover the wisdom that resides within. She works with guided meditation and energy movement through both physical and subtle bodies. This adds an important dimension to understanding her approach to spiritual guidance and how she helps others connect with their divine truth.
Julie believes that when we honor the divine within, we access our most profound truths - and in doing so, we not only transform our individual lives but contribute to the healing of our collective consciousness.
When she's not at Wild Root Yoga, Julie enjoys gardening throughout the year. She volunteers at a cat shelter, focusing on the senior cats. Julie loves spending time with her husband in the Gulf Shores and plans to retire to her favorite beach town within the next ten years.

Rachel Czerny
she/her
200hr Yoga Instructor
Rachel is passionate about using yoga as a tool to connect with your core self through breath, mindful movement, and attention to the internal dynamics of the mind and body. She has been teaching yoga since 2017 and enjoys leading vinyasa flow classes at both slow and energetic paces, as well as restorative classes. No matter what style of class, Rachel aims to cultivate a space for each student to make the class their own. She approaches teaching with the lens that every student arrives to their mat with a unique story and encourages self-expression.
Rachel loves to create new playlists for her yoga classes, rock climb, paddle board, hike with her dog, and nap with her cat. She is always excited to meet someone new and learn their story!

Joe DeWitt
he/him
200hr Yoga Instructor
Joe is most passionate about teaching vinyasa and power sequences. He especially enjoys teaching the Wild Root Classic sequence because it starts off fast and powerful, then offers the last half of class to integrating the energy created into other parts of the body and back into the universe.
Joe wants students to know that we are all learning about the postures and the practice each time we step onto the mat. That it's okay if you fall or lose concentration, and that there really are no failures or mistakes, just opportunities to learn and grow. Yoga should be fun and enjoyable, and that maybe only when you let go of expectations and restrictions are you able to be open to new knowledge and experiences.
He is passionate about music, and plays piano and the guitar. Joe also loves writing, playing, performing and just listening to music! He especially finds satisfaction in a well-made yoga playlist!

Chloe Ewing
she/her
200hr Yoga Instructor
Reiki Level 1
Chloe has love for several types of yoga and says that each style brings a different experience on the mat. She truly loves teaching all types pf yoga, especially a yoga + weights class, vinyasa and slow flows, and restore.
Whether one is new or seasoned to the practice of yoga, Chloe wants all of her students to know that each time they show up to the mat, there is no judgements coming from her or the other yogis in the space, and to offer the same freedom to themselves. Wherever you land that day is exactly where the body is meant to be. Move freely, peacefully, and beautifully, whatever that means to you! Modifications are always welcome and offered regardless of the style of class Chloe teaches. Students can expect to experience a creative practice, beautiful breathing, and a safe environment.
Aside from yoga, Chloe enjoys all things creative from painting, home design, and crafting flower arrangements to building workout routines in the gym, creating new coffee syrups and editing her own YouTube videos.

Anne Gille
she/her
200hr Yoga Instructor
Finding a balance between individual and group synergy is something Anne strives to achieve in the studio. "Motion is lotion" and "movement is medicine" are mottos she lives by! Her classes are structured so that all students feel welcome and empowered to make choices with postures that honor wherever they are in their yoga journey.
Anne believes that yoga is an avenue to connect with others that are passionate about cultivating a positive mental mindset and leaning into the physical power of movement.
Outside of the studio, Anne is a mom of 3 boys and 1 daughter. She and her husband are enjoying traveling around to their different colleges and empty nesting!

Mindy Keller
she/her
200hr Yoga Instructor
Mindy is passionate about teaching restorative and slow flow yoga, guiding students through intentional movement that nourishes both the body and the mind. She values curiosity and encourages students to explore their practice with openness, discovering what feels supportive for them each time they step onto the mat.
Mindy hopes every student feels welcomed into a space where their presence is valued, their autonomy is honored, and they are met with care and loving kindness. She offers plenty of options throughout class, inviting students to make choices that feel right for their own bodies. Her hope is that each practice leaves students feeling more open, relaxed, and supported, while fostering a warm sense of community where it's safe to soften, let go, and simply be.
Outside the studio, Mindy enjoys painting and printmaking, often spending time creating in her home studio with a cup of coffee nearby. Like yoga, making art helps her process emotions, connect with her authentic self, and better understand the world around her.

Ivory Levert
she/her
500hr RYT
Trauma Informed
Prenatal
Ivory enjoys teaching Slow Flow, Restorative, and Prenatal yoga, creating classes that encourage students to slow down, reconnect, and move with intention. She offers a supportive space where breath, mindful movement, and moments of stillness come together to help students feel grounded and present.
Ivory believes your practice is exactly that - your practice. She encourages students to release the pressure to do or be anything other than themselves, reminding them that while she serves as a guide, their body holds the wisdom. Her hope is that every class invites a sense of ease, joy, and presence, leaving students feeling more connected to themselves both on and off the mat.
When she's not at the studio, Ivory loves spending time hiking in nature. Being outdoors helps her recharge, find inspiration, and deepen the sense of connection she hopes to share with every student who steps into her class.

Madyson Light
she/her
200hr Yoga Instructor
Madyson is passionate about creating a loving, supportive space where students can explore both calmness and fierceness. She teaches Wild Root Classic, Yoga + Weights, Slow Flow, and Vinyasa, while also practicing Buti and DJing for special studio events.
Leading with authenticity, Madyson creates a positive environment where students feel encouraged, supported, and empowered. Her passion for personal, spiritual, and emotional growth shines through in every class, with the hope of inspiring strength and resilience both on and off the mat. Expect a joyful presence, great music, and intentional, memorable movement.
Outside the studio, Madyson's love for health and wellness continues. She's often growing microgreens for her business, exploring the outdoors with her partner, or making art and playing games with friends. She dreams of continuing to travel and share love and light through nourishing food and intentional movement.

Bridget Lorentz
she/her
200hr Yoga Instructor
Bridget is most passionate about teaching arm balances, handstands, and exploring all the fun ways those shapes can flow together. She loves helping students build confidence upside down while discovering that they're capable of so much more than they may have believed.
Her classes are designed to challenge you in an encouraging way, with plenty of opportunities to explore, play, and grow. Whether you're working toward your first arm balance or refining more advanced transitions,
Bridget hopes you'll leave class feeling stronger, more confident, and excited to keep practicing.
When Bridget isn't teaching or on her mat, you'll most likely find her spending time with dogs, soaking up the outdoors, or finding her next adventure outside.

Hailey Merendo
she/her
Studio Manager
200hr Yoga Instructor
Reiki Level 1
Yoga has truly transformed Hailey's life by providing a secure avenue to discover her potential. Over time, this unique practice has not only alleviated anxiety but also empowered her to embrace the fluidity of her body. With its numerous modifications and diverse dimensions, yoga has enabled Hailey to find solace in movement. Regardless of whether she feels at her peak or experiencing discomfort, yoga always offers something to offer.
Hailey says, "Wild Root has become my sanctuary, a place where I feel completely at home. Within the walls of the studio and the warm embrace of the community, I find solace and tranquility. It's a haven where I can truly be myself, knowing that my uniqueness is not only accepted but celebrated. In Columbus, Ohio, I have discovered a paradise that has enriched my human experience."
When Hailey is not busy in the studio, you'll often find her snuggling with her two precious dogs, Love and Onyx. She says, "They are the most adorable little creatures and these little floofs never fail to make me happy."

Kristen O'Neill
she/her
200hr RYT
Buti Yoga
Kristen's fondness of yoga started with Vinyasa and expanded into Buti Yoga. She enjoys the portal of creativity that you can open, the connectivity of mind/body/spirt, and the freedom of expression in a way that feels good for every BODY.
She especially loves how Buti helps her to find a sense of release, empowerment, and deeper trust in her intuition for whatever the universe throws her way. The sore tush that comes from the practice is extra credit!
When she isn't getting primal with spirals and static shakes she enjoys going on adventures with her husband and kids. And anything that involves being outside, especially when it comes to gardening and maintaining some wicked awesome lawn lines.

Katie Palcsak
she/her
200hr Yoga Instructor
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Heather Splain
she/her
200hr Yoga Instructor
Reiki Level 1
Heather is passionate about exploring many different forms of yoga, inviting students to connect through breath, body, mind, and spirit. She believes yoga can be transformative and accessible for everyone, and creates a welcoming space where students can feel supported, empowered, and at ease. She especially enjoys teaching slower vinyasa flows, meditation, and restorative yoga, where the body and mind are invited to soften, rest, and simply be.
Heather encourages students to practice in a way that feels most comfortable to them, free from pressure or expectation. She believes every body carries its own inner wisdom, and that no two practices need to look the same. Her hope is to create a space where students feel seen, connected, and encouraged to meet themselves exactly where they are.
Outside the studio, Heather enjoys painting, drawing, and creating mixed media art. She also loves spending time in nature through hiking, gardening, kayaking, and travel. She believes both yoga and creativity have the power to inspire connection, growth, and healing.

Michiella Sturiano
she/her
200hr RYT
Michiella enjoys practicing and guiding slow and vinyasa flows, restorative postures, yoga for every body, and meditation while taking time for exploration and organic movement to connect with body, mind and breath.
Through a trauma informed lens, Michiella encourages students to connect with all parts of self and empower them to honor their unique experience and choose what feels supportive in the moment. In addition to focusing on alignment, she invites students to notice how each pose or movement feels, using body neutral language, sweet reminders of self compassion and variations with props to create a supportive environment where curiosity replaces judgement.
Outside of yoga, Michiella enjoys collecting vintage finds and art, making up silly songs about and snuggling her two senior pups, hammocking in the park and wandering around the woods with her partner and friends, and creative endeavors across many mediums.

Jori Turner
she/her
200hr Yoga Instructor
Jori is in the early stages of her journey as a teacher and embraces it with curiosity, openness, and a love of learning. She enjoys teaching Vinyasa, Slow Flow, and strength-focused practices that challenge both the body and mind, and is excited to continue discovering where her strengths and passions lead.
Jori wants every student to feel like class was created with them in mind. Whether it's a meaningful mantra, a pose that clicks, or a variation that meets them where they are, her goal is to create a space where students feel seen, supported, and part of a genuine community. She welcomes authenticity, imperfection, and a little laughter along the way, with thoughtfully curated playlists that bring energy to every practice.
Outside the studio, Jori enjoys strength training and cooking. She loves the confidence and mental fortitude that come from building strength and appreciates how it complements her yoga practice. She also treasures the creativity and meditation that cooking brings, finding joy in transforming simple ingredients into a nourishing meal.

Michele Winship
she/her
500hr E-RYT
YACEP
Certified Spin Instructor
Although Michele was primarily trained in vinyasa yoga and enjoys Ashtanga for her personal practice, she genuinely loves teaching Hatha classes. Especially to those humans who have never experienced yoga before.
She wants all of her students to realize that yoga is for everybody and every body, regardless of size, shape, ability or age. She says, "We fit the yoga to ourselves and not the other way around."
Off the mat, Michele loves creating!
Whether it is home improvement projects, watercolors, or growing her own food. She enjoys singing karaoke, making new outfits, and repurposing unique thrift finds!
