INSTRUCTORS
VINCE
BJJ, Self defense, Martial Arts & Owner
Vincent has been intrigued by the martial and healing arts since he was 6 years old and it has become a life long pursuit. He has now been training for over 40 years obtaining his first black belt in Tae Kwon Do at 16. Studying numerous martial arts, Vincent also obtained a black belt in Tang Soo Do, achieved the title of Shihan of Bujinkan Budo in Japan, was appointed 7th dan Headmaster of the Hosinsul self defense system out of Philadelphia, has been studying Brazilian JiuJitsu for 20 years and has been police and military trained. His alternative medicine and wellness training includes studying Tai Chi, Qi Gong, acupuncture, massage, meditation, native healing practices and Reiki master certification. With a firm footing also in western medicine he was trained as a combat medic and Army Practical Nurse, licensed as an LPN and RN in NYS where he worked in Oncology as a champion for integrated medicine and also as an ER Nurse. He has 30 years of training in wilderness survival and awareness skills and has 3 decades of teaching experience. Vincent's life's work is a continued expansion of internal and external awareness, seeking to deepen his understanding of the connection we all share with each other and all things.
MICHELLE
Women's BJJ & Martial Arts & Owner
Michelle began her martial arts journey at age 8 with Tae kwon Do. Little did she know that this would be the start of a lifelong practice and something that would ground her through the challenges life would present.
Now in her 30's she has practiced a wide range of martial arts including Bujinkan Budo (6th dan), BJJ, Tai Chi and Qi gong, among others.
In addition to her martial arts experience, Michelle has spent nearly 20 years teaching nature connection, survival skills and awareness to both youth and adults. She has been certified as a Vision Quest Protector through The Tracker School (NJ) Stalking Wolf's lineage, where she continues to dedicate time to learning, caretaking and volunteering.
Professionally, Michelle is Registered Nurse, certified in Wound Care. A career that allows her compassion, desire to serve the community and her artistic side to thrive. It is amazing to witness the body heal, and walking people through that process is often so humbling.
Experiencing the profound impact that each of these skills have had on her life motivates her to continue her training and to provide valuable classes to her community.
DR. BARRY
Longevity, vitality and &
SHEP Mediations.
Dr. Barry Goodman is a Doctor of Chiropractic and Reiki Master with nearly four decades of experience in holistic healing. His work bridges the physical and energetic—combining Chiropractic, Neuromuscular massage, Reiki, Yoga, and Qi Gong to support natural balance, vitality, and longevity.
After facing his own significant heart challenges, Dr. Goodman deepened his study of energy medicine, dedicating his practice to helping others activate their body’s innate healing intelligence. Now based in New York’s Hudson Valley, he offers private chiropractic, Neuromuscular massage, Reiki and energy healing sessions, as well as workshops and classes integrating mind-body-spirit wellness.
Blending science and spirituality, Dr. Goodman teaches that true healing comes from reconnecting with the body’s “Self Energy”—the life force known as Qi or Prana. His compassionate, heart-centered approach empowers clients to become active participants in their own healing, fostering resilience, awareness, and lifelong well-being.
KHRU RICHARD
Muay Thai
Khru' Archa Phayong' Richard has trainged and taught Muay Thai for over 25 years in the UK, Thailand and the US.
He trained under Phra Kru Ba Nuea Chai in Chang Rai province in Thailand.
Originally from Belfast, Richard now calls the Hudson Valley home. He is excited to share the teachings of traditional Muay Thai with the community!
LUKE
Qi Gong & Tai Chi
Luke is a respected local acupuncturist and a committed practitioner of internal martial arts. With more than 20 years of experience, he is motivated to share the advantages of Qi Gong with his community.
Recognized for his straightforward explanations and approachable, friendly teaching style, Luke strives to ensure that all participants leave his classes feeling relaxed and energized, with improved flexibility and a positive mindset.
PROFESSOR MICHAEL
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Professor Michael Medel is a third-degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under John “Birdman” Finn, from the Renzo Gracie / Jamie Cruz lineage. Training since 2006 and earning his black belt in 2016, “Professor Mike” began teaching in 2014 as a brown belt and taught at Birdman Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Brooklyn, New York, from 2014 to 2020.
He is known for his deep understanding of fundamentals and detail-oriented instruction, emphasizing simplicity with depth to help students refine essential techniques that work at every level. Now living in Rosendale, New York,
Professor Mike is happy to share his understanding of the art at Elevate, valuing all aspects of Jiu-Jitsu across no gi submission grappling, sport Jiu-Jitsu in the gi, MMA, and self-defense.
