In this week’s edition of MENTOR Spotlight, we caught up with John Reams, our exercise physiologist here at NCHPAD. As exercise physiologist, John designs and leads our weekly exercise programming in the MENTOR program. We chatted with John about his role, his background, and his many hobbies and talents!

How long have you been with NCHPAD?

I’ve worked on MENTOR with NCHPAD for two years.

Tell us about your background & education. What brought you to NCHPAD?

I have a degree in biology and two master’s degrees: one in exercise physiology and one in nutrition sciences.

Before coming to NCHPAD, I worked at the Lakeshore Foundation for 12 years, transitioned to the UAB Center for Exercise Medicine for 5 years, and now I’m in my second year here at NCHPAD.

How long have you worked with people with disabilities?

18 years.

What do you do?

I am an Exercise Physiologist for MENTOR and NCHPAD. I combine my experience in clinical and wellness settings with my depth of education in exercise physiology and nutrition sciences.

What is your favorite thing about NCHPAD or this program?

I love sharing resources associated with the transformative qualities of exercise and nutrition with underserved populations. One of my favorite things about this job is guiding participants toward discovering resources for health-protective behavioral choices.

What hobbies do you have outside of work?

Playing guitar.

What’s your favorite food, favorite thing to cook or favorite recipe?

Donuts…any flavor!

What’s your favorite music, movies or tv shows?

I like to listen to punk, metal and jazz. As far as tv, I am a huge fan of documentaries.

What’s the last book you read? How was it?

Rick Rubin’s The Creative Act. It was really thought provoking.

What inspires you?

Sincerity and authenticity.

What’s your favorite quote?

“Are you simply interested, or are you invested?” – Source unknown

If you could switch careers for a day, what would you choose?

Studio session musician.

What’s one thing (not related to your job) that you could teach someone else how to do?

Build a staircase.