Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
Eddie James Ministries(Volunteer)
One Thing Internship International House of Prayer
ACTS SCHOOL INTERNSHIP
Transition Period
Generic

Raneisha Waddell

Los Angeles,CA

Summary

Dynamic business operations leader and wellness professional with over a decade of experience in driving revenue growth, managing multidisciplinary teams, and executing impactful community initiatives. Proven track record in scaling operations, enhancing performance metrics, and nurturing emerging leaders across corporate, nonprofit, and wellness sectors underscores a commitment to excellence. Equipped with analytical rigor and intellectual curiosity, ready to leverage applied leadership experience in pursuit of undergraduate studies at Yale University. Passionate about fostering innovation and collaboration to achieve strategic objectives and create lasting positive change.

Overview

17
17
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

General Manager

Pause Studio
Los Angeles, CA
03.2025 - Current
  • Lead full-scale operations for a luxury wellness studio offering medical-adjacent services, including IV infusions and AI-integrated recovery technologies, cryotherapy, clinical grade red-light therapy, float tank(sensory deprivation), as well as sauna and cold plunge recovery services.
  • Oversee a multidisciplinary team of 15+ employees, including registered nurses and recovery specialists, ensuring strict adherence to medical compliance and safety protocols.
  • Drive revenue growth by analyzing key performance indicators (KPIs) and implementing data-driven retention modeling.
  • Cultivated relationships with clients and stakeholders, enhancing loyalty and expanding business opportunities through networking.
  • Managed budget implementations, employee reviews, training, schedules, and contract negotiations.
  • Developed and implemented strategies to increase sales and profitability.
  • Cultivated strong relationships with clients, vendors, and partners to ensure long-term success and loyalty.
  • Monitored financial performance, set budgets and controlled expenses to provide financial stability and long-term organizational growth.
  • Manage all operational facets including budgeting, payroll, inventory for medical supplies, and vendor negotiations to maintain cost controls and operational scalability.
  • Maintain luxury client experience standards while developing local partnerships and community outreach initiatives to expand brand presence in the competitive Los Angeles market.

Certified Yoga Instructor

Hot 8 Yoga
Los Angeles, CA
03.2021 - Current
  • Served as a role model for the team by demonstrating commitment to excellence, professionalism, and adherence to company values at all times.
  • Enhanced overall team performance by providing regular coaching, feedback, and skill development opportunities.
  • Mentored teacher trainees in anatomy, sequencing, and instructional methodology, providing structured feedback that accelerated their development.
  • Conducted diverse yoga classes, catering to varying skill levels and promoting inclusivity.
  • Developed customized lesson plans aligned with individual goals and wellness journeys.
  • Enhanced student engagement through personalized feedback and adjustments during sessions.
  • Organized workshops focusing on advanced asanas, mindfulness practices, and holistic wellness approaches.
  • Implemented community outreach programs to promote health benefits of yoga and attract new clients.
  • Collaborated with studio management to improve operational efficiencies and enhance client experience.

Studio Operations Consultant (Contract)

The Splatter Studio
Santa Monica, CA
11.2024 - 03.2025
  • Engaged by ownership as launch consultant to establish operational infrastructure and systems for new immersive art studio and wine bar concept opening in downtown Santa Monica.
  • Developed and implemented all pre-opening operational systems including staff hiring protocols, training manuals, inventory management, and daily operating procedures for the 'Art Unleashed' action painting experience.
  • Recruited, onboarded, and trained initial team of Floor Artists on guest engagement, demonstration techniques, and booking systems (FareHarbor/Square).
  • Designed end-to-end guest experience from check-in through session facilitation to art packing, ensuring the signature adults-only creative experience delivery.
  • Established vendor relationships, supply chain workflows, and paint inventory management systems to support ongoing studio operations.
  • Collaborated with ownership on launch strategy, special event programming (date nights, corporate events, black light parties), and pre-opening marketing initiatives.
  • Successfully transitioned all systems and operational knowledge to permanent leadership following studio launch.

Studio Director

Hot 8 Yoga
Los Angeles, CA
07.2023 - 03.2024
  • Promoted to executive leadership to oversee full studio performance, and strategic growth for a high-volume location.
  • Increased membership sales by 30% within six months by implementing targeted growth strategies, team accountability systems, and data-informed retention initiatives.
  • Recruited, trained, and mentored a team of 100+ front desk staff and teachers(scheduled and substitute), the assistant director, successfully developing internal candidates for management roles.
  • Partnered with regional leadership to optimize class schedules, Improve client experience, develop and train scheduled teachers while overseeing teacher trainings.
  • Oversaw comprehensive studio operations, including inventory management, recruitment, training initiatives, class schedule coordination, and teacher performance enhancement strategies.
  • Coordinated workshops and events, fostering a vibrant studio culture and member involvement.
  • Cultivated partnerships with local businesses to expand outreach and collaboration opportunities.
  • Oversaw financial management, ensuring budget adherence while maximizing profitability of studio operations.
  • Developed strong client relationships through transparent communication and consistently delivering high-quality work on time.
  • Conducted regular performance evaluations to encourage professional growth among staff members while maintaining studio standards of excellence.

Yoga Teacher Training Mentor & Facilitator

Hot 8 Yoga
Los Angeles, CA
01.2022 - 02.2024
  • Facilitated and mentored cohorts within the studio's teacher training program.
  • Co-facilitated 200-hour teacher trainings, delivering curriculum on alignment, anatomy, and teaching methodology to cohorts of 20+ trainees.
  • Provided individualized mentorship and performance evaluations, helping trainees refine their teaching skills and build professional confidence.
  • Developed personalized lesson plans to enhance student engagement and progress.
  • Cultivated a supportive community atmosphere through effective communication and feedback.
  • Organized workshops and events to broaden student knowledge of yoga practices.
  • Evaluated student performance, providing constructive feedback for continuous improvement.

Leasing Consultant

Greystar (The Vermont)
Los Angeles, CA
04.2022 - 09.2022
  • Managed the full leasing lifecycle for a large-scale residential community.
  • Managed tenant relations and financial transactions, including rent collection and security deposits, ensuring compliance with Fair Housing regulations.
  • Trained new leasing staff on operational procedures and customer engagement techniques.
  • Analyzed market trends to inform pricing strategies and enhance competitive positioning.
  • Delivered informative property tours to prospective residents, highlighting unique amenities and features tailored to their needs.
  • Enhanced resident satisfaction by providing exceptional customer service and addressing inquiries promptly.

Front Desk + Team Lead

Hot 8 Yoga
Los Angeles, CA
04.2020 - 02.2022
  • Supervised front desk operations to enhance customer service and experience.
  • Trained and mentored team members on best practices for client interactions.
  • Streamlined check-in and check-out processes to improve efficiency and reduce wait times.
  • Managed scheduling for classes and appointments, optimizing resource allocation.
  • Resolved customer inquiries and complaints promptly, ensuring high satisfaction levels.
  • Assisted in staff recruitment, training, and scheduling to ensure optimal team performance and coverage during peak hours.

Child Caregiver

Nanny Services
Los Angeles, CA
06.2016 - 01.2020
  • Supervised daily activities and routines to ensure child safety and well-being.
  • Developed engaging educational activities to promote cognitive and social development.
  • Communicated effectively with parents regarding child progress and behavioral concerns.
  • Implemented age-appropriate discipline techniques to foster positive behavior management.
  • Provided nutritious meals and snacks, adhering to dietary restrictions as necessary.
  • Sanitized dishes, tabletops, toys, and frequently touched surfaces to prevent spreading of germs.
  • Ensured child safety through diligent supervision and adherence to established protocols.
  • Created a safe environment through routine inspections of play areas, toys, and equipment for potential hazards.
  • Taught children to organize toys, wash hands, and share by leading by example.
  • Prepared healthy foods and beverages for children based on optimal dietary guidelines and individual restrictions.

Sales Associate & Cashier

Banana Republic
Pasadena, CA
06.2016 - 11.2017
  • Provided customer service and sales support in a fast-paced retail.
  • Assisted in visual merchandising, ensuring compliance with brand standards and seasonal displays.
  • Delivered exceptional customer service, enhancing shopping experiences and fostering loyalty.
  • Processed transactions accurately, maintaining efficient checkout procedures and minimizing wait times.
  • Assisted customers with product selection and purchasing decisions, consistently meeting sales goals.
  • Managed cash register transactions and maintained accurate daily financial reconciliations.

Director of Volunteers & Administrative Coordinator

The Call
Pasadena, CA
08.2014 - 05.2016

The Call was a national prayer movement organizing stadium-sized gatherings of up to 400,000 young adults, focused on spiritual awakening, racial reconciliation, and societal transformation. Served in senior leadership role responsible for the organization's largest operational function.

  • Designed and implemented comprehensive volunteer infrastructure for events serving 200–3,000+ volunteers, creating recruitment systems, screening processes, training materials, and placement protocols from the ground up.
  • Directed large-scale event operations for stadium gatherings, managing on-site volunteer check-in, real-time problem-solving, and coordination across all event functions including ushering, hospitality, children's ministry, and prayer teams.
  • Managed volunteer databases tracking thousands of individuals across multiple states, ensuring accurate contact information and enabling rapid mobilization for future events.
  • Led social media efforts, managing multiple platforms to promote events, increase volunteer participation, and communicate organizational vision to a young adult audience.
  • Developed communication workflows including phone banking campaigns and email marketing, building the relational infrastructure connecting The Call to its volunteer base.
  • Coordinated cross-functionally with executive leadership, interns, and contracted staff, ensuring all departments had necessary volunteer support for event execution.
  • Managed multiple projects simultaneously during both event season and off-season planning periods, demonstrating exceptional organizational and leadership capacity.

Curriculum Development Associate (Contract)

Frontier Ventures
Pasadena, CA
01.2014 - 01.2014
  • Contributed to the development of leadership and mentorship curriculum.
  • Developed educational materials focused on personal formation, discipleship, and organizational development for international leadership programs.
  • Drew directly from Eddie James Ministries outreach experience and One Thing Internship training to inform curriculum design and mentorship frameworks.
  • Researched possible grants and created proposals to submit along with grant applications.
  • Identified training needs and developed content while evaluating existing programs.

Technical Support Specialist

Asurion (NewCorp)
Tupelo, MS
02.2013 - 06.2013
  • Delivered technical support and customer service in a high-volume call center environment.
  • Resolved complex technical issues for customers while consistently maintaining performance metrics for call quality and resolution time.
  • Trained in advanced client de-escalation techniques, successfully recovering at-risk customer accounts.
  • Streamlined communication channels between technical teams and customers, improving response times and satisfaction.
  • Led initiatives to improve troubleshooting protocols, resulting in increased first-contact resolution rates.

Sales Associate

Walmart
Hamilton, AL
08.2009 - 01.2010
  • Developed foundational retail operations and customer service expertise at Walmart Supercenter #1100.
  • Processed transactions efficiently, ensuring accuracy in cash handling and register operations.
  • Collaborated with team members to optimize product displays, enhancing store presentation and appeal.
  • Resolved customer inquiries and complaints effectively, promoting satisfaction and loyalty.

Server & Customer Service

Applebee's
Tupelo, MS
01.2009 - 07.2009
  • Delivered high-volume food service and cultivated client relations skills in a fast-paced restaurant environment.
  • Collaborated with kitchen staff to ensure timely food preparation and quality standards.
  • Resolved guest complaints swiftly, maintaining high satisfaction levels.

Education

Some College (No Degree) -

Santa Monica College
Santa Monica, CA

No Degree -

Pasadena City College
Pasadena, CA
01.2018

No Degree -

Itawamba Community College
Fulton, MS
01.2009

Skills

  • Operations management
  • Training and coaching
  • Team leadership
  • Staff management
  • Inventory control
  • Employee scheduling
  • Verbal and written communication
  • Client relations
  • Project management
  • Operations oversight
  • Sales expertise

Certification

  • 200HR Yoga Alliance Certification Yoga Alliance —
  • 60HR Sculpt & Yin Certification Yoga Alliance Earned Twice
  • CPR Certified — Current
  • One Thing Internship Graduate International House of Prayer December 2011
  • ACTS School Graduate International House of Prayer June 2012

Timeline

General Manager

Pause Studio
03.2025 - Current

Studio Operations Consultant (Contract)

The Splatter Studio
11.2024 - 03.2025

Studio Director

Hot 8 Yoga
07.2023 - 03.2024

Leasing Consultant

Greystar (The Vermont)
04.2022 - 09.2022

Yoga Teacher Training Mentor & Facilitator

Hot 8 Yoga
01.2022 - 02.2024

Certified Yoga Instructor

Hot 8 Yoga
03.2021 - Current

Front Desk + Team Lead

Hot 8 Yoga
04.2020 - 02.2022

Child Caregiver

Nanny Services
06.2016 - 01.2020

Sales Associate & Cashier

Banana Republic
06.2016 - 11.2017

Director of Volunteers & Administrative Coordinator

The Call
08.2014 - 05.2016

Curriculum Development Associate (Contract)

Frontier Ventures
01.2014 - 01.2014

Technical Support Specialist

Asurion (NewCorp)
02.2013 - 06.2013

Sales Associate

Walmart
08.2009 - 01.2010

Server & Customer Service

Applebee's
01.2009 - 07.2009

Some College (No Degree) -

Santa Monica College

No Degree -

Pasadena City College

No Degree -

Itawamba Community College

Eddie James Ministries(Volunteer)

Traveling Outreach Team Member  

Traveled extensively with a multi-state outreach team delivering Bible study programs and community support across the South and East Coast. While Collaborating with a committed team of volunteers to develop and facilitate Bible study curriculum for diverse church communities throughout the southern and eastern United States

  • Traveled continuously for 18 months, supporting local congregations in outreach and religious education initiatives across multiple states.
  • Assisted in organizing and leading community events designed to engage local populations and provide spiritual and practical support.
  • Served as small group leader, facilitating participant engagement and guiding discussion groups during community programs.

One Thing Internship International House of Prayer

Selected for intensive six-month residential leadership program emphasizing spiritual formation, mentorship foundations, and organizational development.

Program Requirements & Responsibilities:

  • Participated in 20+ hours weekly of structured corporate prayer and worship in the Global Prayer Room, including overnight and early morning sessions requiring sustained focus and spiritual discipline.
  • Completed rigorous daily Bible study curriculum including hermeneutics, systematic theology, and eschatology with accompanying written assignments and examinations.
  • Engaged in extended personal meditation and reflective journaling practices designed to integrate theological concepts with personal formation.
  • Attended daily classroom teaching sessions from international ministry leaders, synthesizing complex theological content into practical application.
  • Participated in weekly small group discipleship, facilitating peer discussions and providing accountability support to fellow participants.
  • Served in practical ministry rotations developing organizational and teamwork skills.
  • Transitioned directly from 18 months of Eddie James Ministries outreach work into this intensive leadership program.

ACTS SCHOOL INTERNSHIP

Advanced six-month leadership program combining domestic training with three-month international field assignment in Morocco, North Africa.

Program Requirements & Responsibilities:

  • Completed intensive domestic coursework in cross-cultural communication, community development, and language acquisition strategies.
  • Participated in comprehensive study of Islam, including religious practices, cultural contexts, and historical frameworks to foster informed cross-cultural engagement.
  • Deployed for three-month immersion in Morocco, initiating French language study to enhance community connection.
  • Supported local adoption shelters and community programs, building relationships with children and families.
  • Developed advanced competencies in cultural adaptation, religious literacy, and global community relations through direct engagement with Muslim communities.
  • Maintained structured reflection practices documenting cross-cultural learning throughout international assignment.

Transition Period

Following completion of ACTS School, spent six months in transitional planning and preparation for the move to California and return to professional workforce.

Raneisha Waddell