Our Story
In January of 2017, Shanon opened Fuel the Fire for nutrition counseling. As the years went on, Fuel the Fire has grown into a full mind and body transformation program. At year 2, personal training was added, as well as meal prep classes in the following year. A community that is rooted in connection, creativity, self-compassion, resilience, and security was formed.
Joining us at Fuel the Fire is not just about losing weight, it's about transforming your mindset and helping you to move your body in a way that ignites the fire within you. This is the type of place that changes lives.
Our Team
Shanon Safi, RD, LDN
Owner, Dietitian, Buti Yoga Instructor, Trainer
Since she was young, Shanon knew she wanted a career in which she could make a difference in the lives of others. After working in outpatient counseling and conducting research, Shanon realized the true importance of nutrition, counseling and movement; she saw the way this combination changed lives.
She studied Clinical Dietetics and Nutrition at the University of Pittsburgh and completed her post-graduate Dietetic Internship at the University of Louisiana. She is also a certified NLP practitioner and Buti yoga instructor.
Shanon furthered her studies within the realm of psychology to better understand the implications of behavior change and impact of unresolved trauma. She has integrated this information into her counseling programs at Fuel the Fire. Working with her is a unique hybrid of unearthing past experiences, releasing limiting beliefs, and adapting a new mindset.
Rachel Rodriguez, RD, LDN
Dietitian
Rachel completed her undergraduate dietetics degree at Indiana University of Pennsylvania where she also played colligate softball. She is now finishing up her dietetic internship and master's degree in integrative exercise science at Cedar Crest College
Rachel has worked with many male and female collegiate athletes looking to increase their performance through nutrition. She has been able to see firsthand the importance of nutrition on injury healing and overall athletic performance.
In addition to working with athletes, Rachel has gained much experience working in the community to help educate others a variety of different nutrition topics.
She is enthusiastically looking forward to being apart of others health journeys by supporting them through the processes and sharing her knowledge
Derek Mattison, CSCS, USAW L-1
Head Personal Trainer
Derek joined the fuel the Fire team as a fitness expert in June 2019. He graduated from Temple University with a BS in Exercise and Sport Science and is certified as a Strength and Conditioning Specialist by the National Strength and Conditioning Association. Active throughout his life and playing many team sports, Derek realized his real interest was in the hard, gritty, physical work done in the weight room that enables the body to perform at optimal levels. He has experience training at all levels and has even helped with rehab for a Special Olympics powerlifting athlete.
His philosophy on training is that anyone willing to put in the time and hard work to be fit deserves to achieve better than average results.
“I am excited to help as many people as I can reach their fitness goals, and am even more excited that I get to start here at Fuel the Fire. Not only are you getting the best nutrition advice possible, but you have the physical training and guidance needed to be better than average, and to be the best version of yourself.”
Kristina Rosario, RN
Buti Yoga Instructor
Joining the Fuel the Fire team this February 2019 is Kristina! She has a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania. So, some days you’ll see her in navy scrubs as a Registered Nurse and others you’ll find her leading a group fitness class.
For close to 7 years, Kristina has been instructing group classes, holding certifications for Insanity Live and Rezist and was recently certified in Buti Yoga. She is all about that mind, body, and soul connection and challenging your flexibility while building muscle endurance.
Jamie Farney
Assistant, Content Creator
August 2021 Jamie joined our Fuel the Fire team as administrative assistant and content creator. Having a background in administrative development and social media creation, she is excited to show her efforts.
Working behind the scenes, Jamie helps keep Fuel the Fire running smoothly and keep you up-to-date on upcoming events through all avenues.
Jamie has her own story of personal health and betterment. Whether it be fitness, nutrition, or wellbeing; each is equally as important to maintain a healthy state and she prioritizes it every day.