Jess is the type of person you want to workout next to, then go get coffee with after. Her success in the gym each day can be measured by good movement patterns and coachability. She is very open and honest about her goals, which makes it easy for us coaches to make sure that day’s WOD will get her there. She doesn’t shy away from receiving feedback either, which is something that will help her continue to grow as an athlete. She may have spent time admiring the determination of other athletes, but it is her determination that is truly admirable. We are truly happy she found a place with us at Crossfit Lincoln and we all look forward to seeing where else her journey will guide her.
Tell us a little about yourself. Where are you from? What do you do for a living/study? Feel free to add more.
I grew up in Omaha, Nebraska, and moved to Lincoln about ten years ago to be closer to my company’s main office and Jonny, now my husband. I’ve been with Nelnet ever since, managing a Document Services team that digitizes physical records for long-term retention.
College wasn’t a linear journey. I wasn’t sure what I wanted and needed a nudge from a friend’s mom just to apply. I explored nursing and history before landing on exercise science for my undergrad, a field I loved but didn’t feel I belonged in. I didn’t fit the “ideal” image of a fitness professional and secretly smoked tobacco at the time (though I quit over four years ago). Most recently, I earned a Master of Management degree from Colorado Technical University (CTU).
During my undergraduate studies, I interned at a CrossFit gym in Omaha. I admired the determination of the athletes and often wished I had the confidence to join the workout of the day (WOD). After graduation, finances pulled me toward a stable job at Nelnet following years in retail. Shifting from a physically active lifestyle to a desk job took a toll on my body, I gained significant weight, setting off years of trying quick fixes that weren’t tailored to my real needs for my mind and body.
What keeps me committed to my health journey is my mom’s struggle with illnesses (some weight-related). Watching her health decline reminded me why it’s so important to release the weight—physically and emotionally—that no longer serves me. Real change, I’ve learned, comes from tuning into what my mind and body truly need: sustainable, personalized habits rooted in self-compassion.
How did you find out about Lincoln Nutrition & Fitness?
I found out about Lincion Nutrition & Fitness through an online search. It took a few years to reach out and schedule my free intro.
What was the biggest obstacle for you to start as an athlete here?
My biggest obstacle? My own mind. I’m a classic overthinker, with a talent for turning even the simplest task into a web of what-ifs and second guesses. That pattern showed up whspoen I convinced myself I wouldn’t fit in at the gym or wouldn’t be able to complete a workout, before I even gave myself a chance (which is why it took me so long to schedule my free intro).
How did you overcome that obstacle?
I don’t know if I’ll ever fully overcome this obstacle, but I’m learning to accept this part of me and offer myself grace. There have been times I’ve opened and closed the Wodify app over and over, just reading and rereading the WOD, questioning whether I could scale it to fit my abilities. So I’ve been focusing on simply showing up, because I trust the coaches to help me adjust the workout when needed. Whether it’s reducing the reps, shortening the distance, or lowering the weight, these modifications have allowed me to complete workouts within the intended stimulus. This has improved my confidence, and I’ve even started to see improvements in my personal records (PRs).
Do you remember your first workout?
My first workout is honestly a blur. The one thing I remember clearly is Owner/Coach Emily telling me I couldn’t hide out in the back of the room, though I definitely tried! (That’s where I really wanted to be, LOL) Funny enough, I still find myself drifting toward that same spot, just like I did on day one.
Who have your coaches been? How have they helped you through your first year of CrossFit?
I’m not sure I’ll ever find the right words to fully express how grateful I am for the supportive coaching staff. Even the simple hello when we’re called into class sets the tone. They greet me with kindness and create a space where the workout feels achievable. Thanks to their encouragement and thoughtful modifications, I’ve been able to keep showing up. Honestly, without their support, I don’t think I would’ve kept coming back.
Why do you keep coming back to Lincoln Nutrition & Fitness?
I keep showing up to prove to my past self that I’m capable of doing hard things and that I belong here. While I believe everything happens for a reason, I still wish I could go back and tell my younger self, “You’ve got this. You’re stronger than you think.” Instead, I’ll let the next five years do the talking. One day, I’ll look back and see just how far I’ve come since walking through the doors at CrossFit Lincoln.
How do you balance health & fitness with a busy schedule? How do you stay so consistent in the gym?
I’m a regular at the 6 AM class, it sets the tone for my entire day. Getting the workout done early helps sharpen my focus and boost my energy, but I occasionally enjoy a noon or evening class. On the days I skip or choose not to attend (usually after talking myself out of a workout), I notice the difference, I’m more sluggish and less mentally clear at work. The energy and mental clarity helps keep me coming back to the 6 AM class.
How does CrossFit help you with your job? How does CrossFit affect the rest of your life?
I’ve mentioned this before, but CrossFit has done wonders for my mental clarity. That sharpened focus allows me to be more present for my team and make better decisions that support the company’s long-term success. It’s also helped me build confidence and truly believe that I’m capable of doing hard things. As I continue working toward my health goals, I hope to inspire others to see that they’re capable too.
What is your favorite thing about Lincoln Nutrition & Fitness: Home of CrossFit Lincoln?
What I love most about the gym is the community’s acceptance. That sense of belonging has made all the difference. It’s what allowed me to take the first step and stay committed to this journey. Without that support, I wouldn’t be where I am today, steadily making progress toward my health goals.
Read about last month’s Athlete of the Month, Dan Syde, HERE
To join Jess and the rest of our athletes for a free intro, click HERE