About Next Level Trainings
Next Level is a transformational training organization that supports people in unlocking their power, passion and purpose. Founded in 2014, Next Level Trainings set out to bring extraordinary results in the Columbus and Philadelphia communities and beyond. The trainings are innovative and have been meticulously designed to create positive impact and lasting results. We draw on theories from psychology, linguistics, neuroscience, sociology, and organizational development to create transformation in individuals and teams.
Next Level Trainings does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, gender, gender expression, age, national origin, ancestry, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations. It is the intention of Next Level Trainings to create an environment for all to embrace their true authenticity and elevate their lives.
Our Trainers
Chris Hawker
DISCOVERY TRAINER
Chris Hawker is an inventor, entrepreneur, and life coach. He has over 20 years of experience leading creative teams in developing innovative consumer products, through his company, Trident Design, LLC. Having brought dozens of products to market, he is an expert in innovation and creativity. He coaches entrepreneurs, executives, authors, and creatives in living their vision. He is co-founder of Next Level Trainings and trainer of the Discovery training.
Joe Henderson
Co-OWNER &
VIP TRAINER AND DIRECTOR
As part of the first Leadership team of Next Level Trainings in 2014, Joe has always been inspired and driven by vision. His unbridled passion and commitment to transformation empower others to dream big and make a difference in the world. His coaching and leadership style is grounded in connection, responsibility, and joy. As a Leadership Trainer and VIP Coordinator since 2016, Joe has been integral to the growth and success of Next Level Trainings. A lifetime of study and practice of diverse transformational methods including meditation, Neuro-Linguistic Programming, non-aggressive martial arts, Somatic Trauma Release, and community-building contribute to his current role as he serves others to unlock their unique gifts and purpose. At 74 years young, Joe lives in gratitude for the love and support of his team and family.
Stephen Thomas
CO-OWNER &
VIP TRAINER AND DIRECTOR
Having been a VIP Director since 2018 and a graduate from our LIT and Trainer Internship programs, Stephen’s values of honesty, empowerment, active listening, love, and reality-based thinking steer his coaching. His rigor and intense love for every person he meets allow him to guide others to self-realization and goal achievement. Before stepping into transformational emotional intelligence work in 2014, Stephen worked in the music industry for over fourteen years. He traveled the country with national touring bands and supported them with behind-the-scenes logistics and revenue creation. Since then, he has realized his true calling by supporting thousands of people to find their passion, confidence, and create extraordinary results in their lives.
Chris Lee
Discovery weekend & breakthrough weekend trainer
Chris Lee has spent the last 30 years leading powerful leadership trainings around the world. A pioneer in emotional intelligence, Chris Lee has trained and developed people at the top of their game such as Olympic athletes, Fortune 500 Business leaders, celebrities, and individuals with a desire to elevate themselves. Chris Lee also serves as a collaborator on TV and radio shows for Univisiuon and The Fox Network. Read his newest book Transform Your Life: 10 Principles of Abundance and Prosperity.
Listen to a few of his guest speaking podcasts:
Michael Strasner
LIT PROGRAM TRAINER
Michael's mission is to empower people to take committed action on their visions and dreams with a true sense of urgency. For the past 30 years he has facilitated both personal and corporate seminars and workshops on topics ranging from relationships, communications, leadership, entrepreneurship, public speaking and team building, among others. His clients span the globe from Fortune 500 executives, Presidents, C.E.O’s and mid-level managers to entrepreneurs, baby boomers, new parents and college students. Read his books Living on the Skinny Branches and Mastering Leadership.
Krista Petty
Grace & Warriors Council WORKSHOPS TRAINER
Krista Petty believes there is innate wisdom in the body that can open us to greater possibilities of divine grace and beauty.
The last 20+ years of her life she has been filled with a fiery passion for exploring the wisdom, laughter, freedom and creativity of human beings in action. Moving with freedom in the body. Moving in the celebration of others. Moving paradigms and patterns as we come home to ourselves. She has devoted her life’s work to creating experiential learning environments that evoke the depth and greater dimensions of human being.
Sommer Renaldo
Co-OWNER &
THE MEETING TRAINER
Sommer Renaldo is a co-founder of Next Level Columbus, LLC and trainer of The Meeting. She is the force behind Shakedown, a transformational performance/charity event. Sommer is the CEO of Joybinge, Inc. a non-profit that exists solely for the purpose to bring joy through creative collaboration to Columbus, OH. Originally from the East Coast, she takes her husband Chris Hawker and their son Nico to visit the beach regularly.