Meet the Founders
A Vision for Strength, Wellness, and Performance
Joule was founded by Michael E. Parker and Maya Parker, Danville natives with a shared passion for high-performance living, holistic wellness, and intelligent movement. Together, they created Joule as a boutique fitness experience that goes beyond traditional training—blending science-backed movement, expert coaching, and total-body wellness to help members elevate their strength and energy.
Maya Parker
Certified Functional Nutrition Practitioner | Holistic Wellness Expert
Maya Parker brings over 20 years of experience in functional nutrition and holistic health, specializing in integrative wellness strategies that optimize energy, performance, and longevity. As a Certified Functional Nutrition Practitioner, she has helped countless individuals achieve real, lasting health transformations through personalized, science-driven nutrition plans.
Her expertise in identifying and treating the root causes of chronic health issues complements Joule’s mission to offer a comprehensive approach to fitness and well-being. Through functional testing, targeted nutrition, and a deep understanding of how the body responds to movement and fuel, Maya ensures that Joule members experience elevated energy, strength, and vitality beyond the studio.
For additional insights on her wellness approach, visit www.phdhealthcoaching.com or contact info@phdhealthcoaching.com.
Michael E. Parker
Entrepreneur | Innovator | Visionary Leader
Michael E. Parker is the founder of Joule, bringing a wealth of experience in entrepreneurship, leadership, and purpose-driven business development to the wellness space. As the CEO of Michael E. Parker Enterprises and You Are a CEO, he has spent over two decades mentoring entrepreneurs and professionals, helping them achieve greater freedom in life, wealth, and business.
With a passion for building companies that empower and inspire, Michael has founded more than 20 successful businesses—including Jovance Beauty & Wellness, Value-Centered Solutions, City 1st Realty and Financial, That’s Clean Kitchen, and Personal Health Design—many of which have reached multi-million dollar success.
Michael lives in Danville, California, and alongside his wife Maya, they set out to bring a boutique fitness experience like no other to their community—one rooted in strength, energy, intention, and care. His vision for Joule is to create a space where performance and purpose intersect, helping people move with meaning and thrive in every aspect of life.
Joule Leadership
Julie Ligon
DIRECTOR OF FITNESS AND TRAINING
Julie Ligon, Director of Fitness and training comes to Joule with over 20 years of experience leading fitness classes. She got her start teaching at The Dailey Method, and opened her own Dailey Method studio in Danville in 2008. Later, Julie opened her barre3 studio in the same location. She sold her barre3 studio in 2017 and had been teaching privately ever since. Her passion for teaching comes from her love of movement and of seeing those who attend her classes light up with confidence, strength and love of their bodies. “I believe that movement in whichever form you love most is an incredible gift, a beautiful way to connect your body and mind and an outward expression of your trust and belief in yourself.” Julie believes that every time you move your body, you build up an invisible armor that makes you feel like you can take on whatever the day throws at you. And if you can make and keep a commitment to yourself and your goals, your confidence only grows.
Julie is thrilled to be back in a studio environment and is excited to help to build an incredible community at Joule. Leading a team of amazing instructors is truly a gift and being able to connect with our community in each class is a powerful reminder of just how much connecting with others can lift our spirits and help us bring positivity and powerful energy into our little spot in the world.
Julie has 3 children, and has been married to her husband for almost 25 years. When she’s not teaching, you’ll find her designing her line of fine jewelry for her company FOUND by jewels.
Megan Tomasello
Managing Director | Marketing and Sales
As Managing Director of Joule, Megan Tomasello leads with a focus on marketing, sales, and brand growth, ensuring that Joule stands out as a premier boutique fitness experience. With over five years of expertise in luxury real estate and high-end client relations, she brings a refined approach to membership growth, community engagement, and exceptional service.
Megan is passionate about building strong connections, curating premium experiences, and driving Joule’s brand forward. Her expertise in strategic marketing and sales ensures that every member interaction reflects Joule’s commitment to excellence, energy, and results.
Lashunda Wells
OPERATIONS MANAGER
As Operations Manager at Joule, Lashunda Wells ensures that every aspect of the studio runs seamlessly, creating a high-touch, luxury experience for both members and staff. With a background in wellness operations, hospitality, and customer experience, she specializes in streamlining studio logistics, managing front desk operations, and supporting class scheduling and events.
Lashunda is also a licensed nurse with extensive experience in patient care, emergency response, and team coordination, bringing a deep understanding of health, wellness, and precision-based service to Joule. Her expertise in team training, facility oversight, and member engagement allows Joule to maintain the highest standards of service and efficiency. Passionate about fostering a welcoming and organized environment, Lashunda plays a key role in ensuring that every visit to Joule is smooth, elevated, and aligned with our commitment to excellence.
Katie Gaddini
BARRE | BOUND | BREATHE
Hi! I’m Katie, and I am honored to be part of the Joule Fitness Studio in Danville! My love is guiding remarkable group classes. Since 2016 I have been learning and leading satisfying and fun Barre, Dance, Pilates, Strength, Yoga, and Rebounder classes! I have a deep enthusiasm to continue learning. Everyone will feel challenged and successful in my classes. Proper form and modifications are always my focus because having options is the best way to feel confident, strong, and balanced. I am eager to build Strength, drip Sweat, and Soar with YOU!
Rebekah Faust
BARRE | BREATHE
With over six years of experience as an instructor, I am passionate about helping others discover their inner strength and the transformative power of movement through a regular barre and yoga practice. As a breast cancer survivor, yoga and barre played a vital role in my healing journey, and I am dedicated to sharing those same benefits with my students. I find immense joy in witnessing people grow stronger, both physically and mentally, through their practice. Outside the studio, I enjoy riding motorcycles, traveling to new places, and scuba diving. I also love connecting with nature where I can find peace and inspiration. My goal is to create a supportive and empowering environment where everyone can experience the strength, resilience, and joy that a dedicated movement practice brings.
Wendy Billy
FRONT DESK CONCIERGE
As the first point of contact at Joule, Wendy brings a warm and welcoming energy to every guest who walks through the door. With a passion for health and wellness, Wendy thrives on creating a seamless and positive experience for both new and returning clients. Whether assisting with class bookings, answering questions, or offering personalized recommendations, Wendy ensures that every visit is smooth, stress-free, and inspiring.
With a background in customer service and a deep love for fitness, Wendy is dedicated to fostering a community atmosphere and helping clients feel confident and supported in their wellness journey. Outside of the studio, Wendy enjoys cooking, walking her dog, yoga and hiking, and is always excited to share tips and advice to help others lead a balanced, healthy lifestyle.
Always ready with a smile, Wendy is here to make sure your experience at Joule exceeds expectations every time!
Carla Gaines
BREATHE
Carla has practiced various forms of yoga for over 30 years and is a 200 hour Registered Yoga Teacher with Yoga Alliance. She notices that spending time on her mat, linking movement with breath and focusing on present moment awareness, is a way to pause and take time for herself, both mentally and physically. She currently enjoys sharing her yoga practice with others by teaching vinyasa flow classes for all levels of students. She is also a Licensed Occupational Therapist with experience in physical rehabilitation. Carla applies her knowledge of anatomy, physiology and kinesiology to Breathe classes, thus creating an integrative practice for her students. Her ultimate hope is that her students leave class feeling better in their bodies and similarly at ease in their heads and hearts. When she is not practicing yoga, Carla enjoys spending time with friends and family, reading, cycling, and crocheting.
Hillary O'malley
Barre
Hillary is multi-faceted - a mom, retail executive and movement instructor. She loves nothing more than a high-energy beat driven class, where you leave feeling empowered and joyful. Originally from Chicago, her music leans hip-hop and r&b, with a sprinkle of Taylor Swift. Catch her in studio every weekend.
Kim Friesen
FRONT DESK CONCIERGE
Kim is the friendly face that greets you at Joule, ensuring every visit is effortless and welcoming. With a background in customer service and wellness, she’s here to assist with class bookings, memberships, and any questions you may have. Kim is passionate about creating a supportive and inviting atmosphere, making sure every member feels like part of the Joule community.
Robin Bonaso
BARRE
Robin found barre in 2008 and was immediately drawn to the way it builds strength, sharpens focus, and leaves you feeling more connected - to your body and to the people around you. She started teaching in 2010 and has been leading classes across styles and experience levels ever since.
Her teaching style is grounded in intentional movement, clear cueing, and the kind of challenge that leaves you feeling better than when you walked in. Robin is committed to helping you push yourself safely both in body and mind - reminding you that simply showing up is a win, but that true progress, strength, and empowerment are often found just outside your comfort zone.
Robin is honored to bring her love of movement to the Joule community and can’t wait to see you in class.
Krista Perrett
FRONT DESK CONCIERGE
Krista is one of the first smiling faces you’ll meet when you walk into Joule. As part of our front desk team, she ensures every client experience is smooth, welcoming, and elevated from start to finish. With a background in client services and a passion for health and wellness, Krista helps create the warm, boutique environment that sets Joule apart. Whether you need help with scheduling, memberships, or simply a boost of encouragement before class, Krista is here to support you every step of the way.
Arbela Ternian
BARRE
Arbela is a Bay Area native who discovered her passion for fitness through barre. She's been teaching for 6 years and helping others tap into their strength and confidence through movement is at the heart of everything she does. Outside of Joule, you’ll often find her strength training, walking the Iron Horse Trail with her husband and dog, Boots, or experimenting with new baking recipes.