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Meet The Team

Jeff Emerson

Executive Director & Teacher

Jeff is a Reiki Master with an E-RYT500 and is the author of Unfolding the Lotus, Working the Fourth Step through the Chakra System. Jeff is the founder of True Freedom Recovery Yoga, one of the world's first 200-hour teaching programs for people in 12-Step Recovery.

Jeff is a member of long-term recovery with over 30 years clean. Jeff has taught meditation in halfway houses, prisons, homeless shelters, 12 step conventions, and juvenile detention centers.

Kate Paytes

Hatha Yoga

Katy is a yogi and lifelong lover of movement, nature, and connection. She completed her 200-hour training at Cincinnati Yoga School and teaches classes that are playful, welcoming, and filled with lighthearted energy.

Off the mat, she finds joy in being a mom, sister , friend, partner as she enjoys hiking, cooking, and caring for plants and animals. She embraces life with enthusiasm, always ready to share laughter—especially at her own jokes.

Ralph Eagle

Chair Yoga

Ralph is a 200-hour RYT graduate and has been teaching yoga at True Freedom since 2017. He has also shared yoga with men at CCAT for over two years.

Ralph’s classes focus on breath, energy centers, and mindful movement, incorporating hip openers, shoulder asanas, and even light core work. He believes yoga should be both grounding and accessible to all. Off the mat, he enjoys playing guitar and taking on construction projects.

Sam

Yin Yoga

Sam is a 200-hour RYT graduate who found her home on the mat through yoga, recovery, and self-discovery.

She was introduced to True Freedom, where she deepened her practice and spirituality, and is now continuing her journey with 300-hour training.

Sam’s classes blend flow and yin elements, offering space for growth and presence. Off the mat, Sam enjoys creating art and spending time with her daughter and family.