My journey in health began with studying Exercise Science at Winthrop University and working as a coach at Orangetheory Fitness and a personal trainer at The YMCA. Over the years, I helped hundreds of women with their fitness goals, but I quickly realized that exercise alone wasn’t enough to solve the weight loss and health struggles many faced.
This led me to dive deeper into Functional Medicine and Women's Health. Through my studies at Pacific Rim College, The Institute for Integrative Nutrition, and The Integrative and Functional Nutrition Academy, I gained extensive knowledge in women's hormones, gut health, menopause, autoimmune diseases, thyroid disorders, and more. This allowed me to adopt a holistic, functional approach that focuses on uncovering and addressing the root causes of health issues rather than simply masking the symptoms. It’s about promoting healing from the inside out.
In 2019, I launched Tristen Menslage Coaching and the ReDefine You Program. What started with a small group quickly grew as word spread about the transformations we were creating. To date, we've helped over 730 women reclaim their health, strength, and confidence.
Having gone through my own health transformation — overcoming depression, eating disorders, and significant weight gain — I know firsthand how challenging it can be to feel stuck. But I also know the power of holistic healing. My journey led me to shed 30 pounds, free myself from medications, and build the foundation for a program that truly changes lives.
Becoming a mom in 2022 and experiencing weight loss in 2023 deepened my connection to the women I work with. I’m here to show you that no matter how busy or overwhelmed you may feel, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Together, we’ll redefine your health, reclaim your confidence, and help you become your strongest, most vibrant self.
Dakoda’s journey to health and wellness wasn’t a straight path – it was one filled with trials, determination, and pushing past limits. Growing up in the gym from the age of 12, Dakoda developed a love for fitness while traveling for soccer and pushing himself further by playing hockey in the North American Hockey League from 2012-2016. But after a career-ending reconstructive hip surgery, Dakoda faced what he saw as his first failure. He returned to the family business but still felt unfulfilled, lacking purpose.
While continuing his daily gym routine, he began reflecting on what truly motivated him. That’s when he decided to join the Army and pursue something far beyond the ordinary. His recruiter sold him on the chance to try out for the Special Forces, and right before shipping out to basic training, Dakoda told his family about his decision. After completing rigorous training, he earned his Green Beret and graduated as an 18 Charlie Special Forces Engineer.
But life threw him another curveball. A back injury forced him to face a difficult decision: fuse his entire lower back or leave the Army. This decision was made even harder when Tristen found out she was pregnant with their son. Choosing family first, Dakoda made the decision to leave the Special Forces and pivot toward a new mission: to help others in a different capacity.
Now, Dakoda channels his passion for pushing limits into health and wellness. He’s not just about physical strength but mental resilience and emotional growth. With education in Special Forces Trauma First Aid and schooling through The Integrative and Functional Nutrition Academy , Dakoda works alongside Tristen as a Holistic Health Coach to empower others, whether it’s through coaching or simply leading by example.
Dakoda’s journey to health and wellness wasn’t a straight path – it was one filled with trials, determination, and pushing past limits. Growing up in the gym from the age of 12, Dakoda developed a love for fitness while traveling for soccer and pushing himself further by playing hockey in the North American Hockey League from 2012-2016. But after a career-ending reconstructive hip surgery, Dakoda faced what he saw as his first failure. He returned to the family business but still felt unfulfilled, lacking purpose.
While continuing his daily gym routine, he began reflecting on what truly motivated him. That’s when he decided to join the Army and pursue something far beyond the ordinary. His recruiter sold him on the chance to try out for the Special Forces, and right before shipping out to basic training, Dakoda told his family about his decision. After completing rigorous training, he earned his Green Beret and graduated as an 18 Charlie Special Forces Engineer.
But life threw him another curveball. A back injury forced him to face a difficult decision: fuse his entire lower back or leave the Army. This decision was made even harder when Tristen found out she was pregnant with their son. Choosing family first, Dakoda made the decision to leave the Special Forces and pivot toward a new mission: to help others in a different capacity.
Now, Dakoda channels his passion for pushing limits into health and wellness. He’s not just about physical strength but mental resilience and emotional growth. With education in Special Forces Trauma First Aid and schooling through The Integrative and Functional Nutrition Academy , Dakoda works alongside Tristen as a Holistic Health Coach to empower others, whether it’s through coaching or simply leading by example.