Meet The Team

A woman in a swimsuit and swimming goggles smiling and making a peace sign while sitting on the edge of a swimming pool. She is holding a waterproof device in her left hand and appears to be enjoying herself after swimming.

Michelle Washam

Michelle Washam is a certified Red Cross Lifeguard and CalmWater instructor with a lifelong love of swimming. She discovered deep water training in 2024 after taking a deep water exercise class and was instantly drawn to the challenge, focus, and confidence it builds.

Often called “The Queen of Culture”, Michelle brings energy, creativity, and a playful approach to every session, using games and engaging activities to help students build water confidence and competence in a supportive, approachable environment.

As a mother of two young boys, she’s also seen the CalmWater Method make a real difference at home. She’s watched her children grow from hesitant in the water to happily playing and swimming for hours.

Founder, COO
A woman in a swimming pool sitting on a lifeguard chair with wet hair and a tattoo on her arm, smiling at the camera.

Lauren Murphy

Lauren Murphy is a certified Red Cross Lifeguard, CalmWater instructor, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, and former professional MMA athlete. She began swimming and training in deep water as a supplement to her martial arts career and quickly discovered the empowering nature of the water.

After retiring from professional competition, Lauren began her own journey into aquatic instruction and water competence. Concerned about rising drowning rates across the United States, and eager to introduce the benefits of deep water training to the community, she founded The CalmWater Collective.

Drawing on her background in martial arts instruction, Lauren structured the CalmWater program to meet students at every level—from those who are just becoming comfortable in the water to athletes training for advanced performance. Through progressive skill development, students build comfort, confidence, competence, and ultimately water fluency.

Founder, CEO
A smiling man with red hair and beard, wearing a black T-shirt, standing in front of a blurred background featuring a logo with an eagle and American flags.

Steven Smith

Steven Smith is an 11-year Reconnaissance Marine veteran, certified Red Cross Lifeguard, CalmWater Instructor, and karate black belt. He spent over a decade as a Dive School instructor, training elite military personnel from the Marine Corps, Navy, and Air Force.

A passionate coach and athlete, Steven leads CalmWater’s Tactical Athlete Sessions and Gym Swims. He holds a USA Weightlifting Level 1 certification and has been training, coaching, and competing in both weightlifting and CrossFit for over 10 years.

His love for the water extends beyond training—he’s an avid diver and spearfisherman who thrives in challenging aquatic environments. Committed to pushing limits and fostering resilience, he brings a wealth of experience and a results-driven approach to CalmWater Co.

CalmWater Instructor