Our Story

Nearly three decades ago Coach Ted created a system that helped people—from the injured to the disabled—turn physical limitations into unmatched strength. World renowned for his legacy as a coach in the sport of Powerlifting and developer of multiple world and national champions, as well as world record holders and MMA champions.

Mastering physical strength training, Coach O’Neill knew that true strength lay in more than just physical aptitude. Already an expert in creating change, he integrated his 20 year study of metaphysics, weaving in mindset and energetic/spiritual concepts into all of his trainings. A turning point? Coach O’Neill met Dr. Andrea Vitz, a dedicated doctor of chiropractic with a severe spinal injury. Under his guidance, she avoided imminent surgery and became a national champion, elite powerlifter. Training her emotional plane & maturity was a critical part of her recovery.

Drawing from her own struggles with overcoming chronic hysteria, sadness and relationship challenges, Andrea developed Emotional Sobriety Training™ (EMSO)—a proprietary method that empowers individuals to master their emotions–not just their reactions to them. Her work reached a global audience through bestselling book The You You’ve Never Met and TEDx talk, The Power of Emotional Sobriety, and has since transformed teams, executives, and individuals.

Ted and Andrea knew that real, lasting change needed a synergy of physical, mental, emotional, and energetic/spiritual strengthening leading to the development of Lifted Academy.

O’Neill collected his proficiencies in discipline and resilience as the mental arm of Lifted, with ParaPhysical Training™ (PPT). They soon integrated energetic/spiritual practices, completing the holistic framework that now defines their Academy.

At its heart, Lifted Academy was born to fill a gap in modern education. People are rarely trained in how to thrive in relationships, build emotional resilience, maintain able bodies or create fulfilling lives.

“Why wasn’t there a school that prepares you to be truly ready for life or at least one that helps you master it when you need it most?”—Lifted Academy became that school.

Today, Lifted Academy stands as a beacon of real transformation, helping people rise above life’s challenges. Its mission is clear:
to Elevate the Human Experience and create a world where strength, on EVERY level, becomes the norm.

If you are ready to take charge of your life and your legacy, with guidance, community and a decades-long proven system, you’re in the right place.