Neissa
Brown
Springmann
Founder
"We can
do hard things."
Originally from the small town of Riesel, Texas, I moved to Austin to attend the University of Texas and lived in Austin for nineteen years. After studying Kinesiology, Health Promotion and Fitness at the University of Texas, I worked as a personal trainer and group fitness instructor for a number of years at Austin-area gyms and country clubs before founding iGnite in 2006. The creation of iGnite was based on my passions for women's health and fitness, nature, positive communication, being part of an encouraging community and a deep desire to inspire and impact the lives of women. With iGnite's unique programing and philosophy I am honored and humbled that now, 17 years later, iGnite has positively impacted and connected the lives of women in Austin, San Diego and throughout the country.
My husband Russell and I have two children, Durant (13 yrs) and Malaine (11 yrs), and a loving extended family in Texas and Maryland. Understanding the many demands of being a woman — wife, mother, caretaker, and professional, I remain passionate to nurture and expand our existing community of women so their lives can be encouraged, inspired, and empowered. Through iGnite, my team and I work everyday to ensure our community is leading healthy, inspired, balanced, active, fun and connected lives.
Best Advice I’ve Been Given:
"Just because you can doesn't mean you should"
“Listen to and trust your gut."
"Trust the process."
“Want what you have."
"Different doesn't have to be bad. Different is just different."
"The grass is greener where it's watered."
I think many people have given me this advice. I’m a people pleaser and the thought of saying “no” or disappointing anyone is devastating. However, as painful as it is I’ve learned that I can’t do it all and if I want to be able to consistently give my best to my family, community and iGnite, I have to say ‘no.’ Almost always, less is more.
“Spend time doing the things you are good at and delegate the rest.” — Lew Little
Favorite Quotes:
I’m a quote junky, so that’s a really hard question. Right now there’s a four-way tie:
“Watch the sunrise at least once per year, put a lot of marshmallows in your hot chocolate, lie on your back and look at the stars, never buy a coffee table you can’t put your feet on, never pass up a chance to jump on a trampoline, don’t overlook life’s small joys while you are searching for the big ones.” — H. Jackson Brown Jr.
“God didn’t promise days without pain, laughter without sorrow, nor sun without rain. But He did promise strength for the day, comfort for the tears and light for the way.” (Unknown)
“Light yourself on fire with passion and people will come from miles to watch you burn” — John Wesley
“The only thing standing between you and your goal is the b.s. story you keep telling yourself as to why you can’t achieve it.” —Jordan Belfort
What Inspires Me Most:
I am inspired by so many things, but currently, the Bible inspires me! I can't get over how relative it is. It it blowing my mind! People, such as my parents who live full and faith-filled lives and are eager to help anyone at anytime. I am inspired by those who are courageous, fearless and overcome odds--push beyond their physical, mental, spiritual and emotional limits. I'm inspired by pursuers of God, dreams, life and people. I am inspired by people who love others and set out to make a difference. This is very cliche but true: I'm inspired by Jesus. I want to live, love and trust God like He did...all the while knowing He was going to be crucified. That blows my mind. I am also inspired by nature--sunset and sunrises, a full moon, the changing seasons, butterflies, animals who just know what to do, budding flowers...if it's nature and created by God....I am inspired!
Life-Changing Experience:
Having children was life-changing, of course, however that goes without being said. I graduated from the University of Texas in 2000 and in 2001 I moved to New York City, which was another life-changing experience. I moved there as a broke college graduate and was certain I’d land my dream job in television. Instead, I landed on my rear, which looking back was the best thing that could have happened to me. I was humbled. It was all part of my journey and allowed me to gain a greater appreciation for my family, a slower and more connected pace of life and the great state of Texas. In August 2015 my husband’s job moved us to San Diego. This transition was extremely challenging for me, however, it has been one of the most rewarding and fun experiences of my life. It has been a faith, marriage, family and friendship builder and allowed me to expand and share iGnite in San Diego. In August 2018 my husband's job moved us to Tulsa, OK, which is where we currently live. What I've learned first-hand is that while change is so hard, it is also beautiful and our struggles are never wasted. God always finds a way to use them.
"Different doesn't have to be bad. Different is just different."
Something People May Not Know About Me:
I reallllly love to laugh and dance! And....i’ve always desired a career in television, simply to communicate a passionate, encouraging and positive message to the masses...something we can't get enough of!
Teaching/Leadership Philosophy:
I believe in serving others and building people up! I inherited my dad’s upbeat coaching style and my mom’s cheerleader-like personality, so while leading in any capacity I love being an encourager while also providing education and information. I love connecting people and help everyone have a great time!
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CORE VALUES
Make a Difference | Family | Humility | Integrity | Freedom | Gratitude | Fun
Neissa’s Offerings:
Neissa loves people and has a heart for loving, encouraging and inspiring women of all ages. Whether through group fitness, custom adventure trips, philanthropic events or speaking engagements, Neissa ignites the body, mind and spirits of those she is with. Her authentic and relatable nature offers a unique and refreshing approach to health, wellness and life. She is deeply passionate in being source or light, encouragement and love to others. She believes that true health is found when the body, mind and spirit are joined and we are able to see our full and God-given potential.
“Connecting dots. That is what Neissa does, and does well. She connects you to your own body and what it can do. She connects you to others in a group setting. She connects you to purpose. She connects you to being open and not focusing on self. Neissa did this with a group of lawyers of all ages from all over the country to honor and remember Blaine Steinberg, a young woman who passed away suddenly in March 2014. Neissa connected us with Blaine’s spirit.”
- Matt Dow-Jackson Walker LLP
Please contact Neissa if you would like to have her lead, create or speak at your next event.