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About

Who we are

Heart First exists to develop uncommon leaders who are grounded in integrity, face adversity with courage, lead with compassion, and grow through awareness.

What we are building

Our goal is to build world-class environments of growth where compassionate leadership and high standards coexist, raising consciousness and transforming how people develop, lead, and perform.

Our standards

Integrity → We Do What We Say We live in full alignment with our values by honoring our commitments, taking ownership of our actions, and choosing what is right over what is easy. Courage → We Shine Our Light We share our voice, ideas, and presence with courage, especially when doubt, fear, or discomfort arise. Compassion → We Communicate Relentlessly We communicate directly, honestly, and consistently, especially during tension, uncertainty, or disagreement. ​​ Awareness → We Do the Work We commit to the practices that develop awareness, strength, and integration, especially when life is busy, stressful, or uncomfortable.​

Meet the Team

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Founder, Coach, Speaker

Ryan Sawyer

Ryan Sawyer helps athletes, leaders, and high performers develop the mental strength, resilience, and confidence needed to excel under pressure. A former national champion college football coach, he went on to found the Heart First Mental Strength Academy after coaching at Central Washington University and Eastern Washington University. Today, Ryan partners with teams and organizations to build high-performance cultures through his Integrated Mindset and Competitive Edge frameworks. Drawing on his background in elite sport, neuroscience, and leadership development, he equips individuals with the tools to perform at their best when it matters most. Coaching Credentials: ​ - Former National Champion College Football Coach - Founder of Heart First Mental Strength Academy - Author of the Books "Choice Point" & "We Can Do Hard Things" - Host of the Heart First Leadership Podcast - Master Coach & Creator: -Integrated Mindset & Competitive Edge for Athletes - Certified Unbeatable Mind Coach - Certified Spartan SGX Coach - Certified Mental Performance Mastery Coach  - Certified Kokoro Yoga Instructor - Certified Quantum Living Process Facilitator  - Certified Oxygen Advantage Instructor (Breath for Performance)  - Certified Applied Breath Protocol  - Certified Meditation and Mindfulness Instructor - Certified Safe Sound Protocol (SSP)  - Certified Neuro Coach with Mindset Neuroscience Neurotraining Institute

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Coach, Speaker

Heidi Sawyer

Heidi is a seasoned Certified Life Coach, Integrated Mindset, and Competitive Edge Coach dedicated to empowering athletes and high achievers from all walks of life to reach their full potential. Since 2018, she has helped clients enhance focus, manage time and energy effectively, and align their priorities with their goals. Heidi’s passion lies in helping individuals discover and unlock their untapped potential by fostering a safe, supportive environment for sustained growth and success. Coaching Credentials: ​ - Certified Unbeatable Mind Coach - Certified Integrated Mindset Coach - Certified Heart First Mental Strength Coach - Certified Organizational Specialist - Certified Quantum Living Facilitator   - Certified Neuro Coach with - Mindset Neuroscience Neurotraining Institute - Certified Barre Fitness Instructor

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Program Contributor

Stefanie Faye

Stefanie Faye is a world-renowned neuroscience expert who works with large organizations such as MIT, Google, the FBI, Stanford, and Northwestern University, as well as with non-profits, coaches, consultants and educators all over the world. Her graduate studies from New York University focused on self-directed neuroplasticity, self-regulation, and empathy. She has expertise in brain mapping (qEEG), heart rate variability, and other neurophysiological measurements that are used to guide people’s journeys of transformation and overall well-being. She combines all of that with mindfulness training in monasteries and from meditation masters from India, Vietnam and Africa. www.StefanieFaye.com

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Independent Certified IM Coach

Barb Oviatt

Barb is a Certified Integrated Mindset Coach (Independent Contractor), yoga studio owner, martial artist, and black belt specializing in Mindset for Weight Management. She empowers clients to achieve sustainable results by addressing the mental, emotional, and physical aspects of their journey. Barb blends mindset coaching, movement practices, and martial arts discipline to help individuals build confidence, overcome challenges, and develop lasting, healthy habits. Her yoga studio provides a supportive environment where clients can connect with their bodies and minds, fostering balance and mindfulness.

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Independent Certified IM Coach

Tyler Simmet

Tyler is a Certified Integrated Mindset Coach (Independent Contractor) specializing in helping high performers eliminate stress and boost energy through mindset work and at-home lab testing. With a passion for personal growth and well-being, Tyler combines proven techniques with practical tools to empower clients to achieve balance and unlock their full potential. Tyler's approach focuses on uncovering the root causes of stress and fatigue, offering personalized strategies to enhance mental clarity, resilience, and overall vitality.

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