Picture of the Wellness Center and surrounding buildings, with snow covering the buildings

Meet the Staff

Andi (the owner) and family

Andi Hankins

Meet the Team!

Hi! My name is Andi Hankins and this is my family- Brian, Brody, Riley, and Taylor.

Just a short bit about my background:

1999- Joined the Army National Guard and became a Combat Medic, through this I acquired my Emergency Medical Technician-Basic certification when I was 19.

2006- Graduated from UWS with a Bachelors degree in Exercise Science and started at Essentia Health in Cardiac Rehabilitation working in both Duluth and Superior for the next 12 years.

2010- Joined the Solon Springs Volunteer Fire Department as an Emergency Medical Responder.

2010- With a GI bill burning a hole in my back pocket I decided to pursue an Associates Degree in Massage Therapy from DBU. This was completed in 2010 and I worked at Trend's Salon and Spa 1-2 days a month until 2017.

2017- I decided to pursue self-employment and started massage therapy out of our house.

I really missed the clinical gym and as a family we decided to build one! It may not be cardiac rehab clinical, but it is a nice blend of a fitness center while adding some clinical aspects (such as blood pressure monitoring, Sp02, heart rate and telemetry when needed.)

Current staff has a first responder or nursing background.

Come check us out! This is a small and non-intimidating atmosphere where our goal is for you to feel comfortable and welcomed.


staff member Melanie

Melanie Gehl

Active 52 year old mother of 8 and grandmother of 8. First responder for 13 years, high school volleyball coach for 13 years and 3 years RBA. Currently doing home health care. “I like to see people succeed”.
staff member Cindy

Cindy Hollis

This is Cindy, she has 3 children, 2 boys and a girl, 4 wonderful grandchildren, 2 girls and twin boys. “It has always been important to keep in good health and keep moving, now more than ever so I can keep up with our family”. Cindy has over 13 years experience in nursing as a CNA and 30 in cosmetology.
staff member Caralyn

Caralyn Hack

Professional massage therapist with 18 years experience, specializes in deep tissue work.
staff member Caralyn

Missy Flagstad

Hello, I'm Missy Flagstad. I am a level 1 fitness instructor at Balanced Wellness. I live in Solon Springs with my husband Steve and our brittany spaniel, Remi.

I retired from my career job in August 2021 and discovered Essentrics through a class that Andi was offering at the Village Hall. At that time, I was four years post total right hip replacement. I wasn't sure if I would physically be able to do Essentrics. I immediately noticed a difference in the way my body felt after doing one class. It felt so good! Not only did I notice physical changes, such as improved flexibility, mobility and strength, I also felt more energized!

I decided to pursue certification so that I could safely teach Essentrics to the community in which I live. In December 2023, I earned Level 1 Essentrics certification. Moving forward, my goal is to attain all the levels offered through Essentrics. I enjoy learning new techniques and workouts, along with attending other fitness classes, hiking, and pilates. For me, having a variety of workouts is essential for my well-being and my body thanks me every day!