At Gymbag, our mission is guided by a team of credentialed professionals who believe in science-backed wellness that’s realistic, inclusive, and motivating. Whether it’s physical training, emotional resilience, nutrition, or lifestyle habits, these experts bring diverse qualifications and decades of real-world experience.
Dr. Monica Reyes, PhD – Clinical Health Psychologist & Mindfulness Educator
Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, University of Michigan
A licensed psychologist with over 15 years in behavioral health, Dr. Monica Reyes specializes in integrating mental wellness with everyday lifestyle practices. She’s worked with healthcare systems and wellness apps to design evidence-based mindfulness tools and stress-reduction programs. At Gymbag, she shares accessible strategies for building emotional resilience, managing anxiety, and cultivating self-awareness.
James “JT” Thompson, CSCS – Certified Strength Coach & Functional Movement Specialist
B.S. in Exercise Science, University of Florida | Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (NSCA)
JT is a performance coach who bridges professional athletic training and beginner-friendly fitness. With 12+ years in strength training, mobility, and injury prevention, he’s coached everyone from high school athletes to working professionals. JT’s Gymbag features focus on simple, sustainable workouts you can do at home, at the gym, or in everyday life.
Rina Patel, RD – Registered Dietitian & Nutrition Coach
B.S. in Nutrition and Dietetics, Cornell University | Registered Dietitian (AND-accredited)
Rina Patel is passionate about helping people build healthier eating habits without fad diets or guilt. As a clinical dietitian and nutrition content consultant, she focuses on intuitive eating, meal planning, and cultural inclusivity in food guidance. Her Gymbag articles decode nutrition science into bite-sized, real-life tips you can use at the grocery store or in your kitchen.
Leo Kim, M.A., CPT – Lifestyle Behavior Coach & Certified Personal Trainer
M.A. in Health Promotion, University of British Columbia | Certified Personal Trainer (ACE)
Leo combines fitness with behavior change psychology. With a background in health coaching and public wellness campaigns, his focus is helping people overcome mental blocks and stay consistent. At Gymbag, Leo’s work centers on motivation science, habit formation, and low-pressure fitness strategies for busy people.
Dr. Samantha Blake, ND – Holistic Wellness & Preventive Health Specialist
Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine, Bastyr University | Certified in Lifestyle Medicine (ACLM)
Dr. Blake takes a whole-body approach to health, blending medical knowledge with daily wellness practices. She’s worked in integrative clinics and now advises digital health platforms on sustainable self-care routines. On Gymbag, she provides guidance on sleep, energy management, immune health, and how to balance wellness with real-world demands.