Why Tandem Lifestyle?
At Tandem Lifestyle, whole-person wellness is more than a philosophy—it’s a lifestyle.
Science-backed recommendations and wellness methods continue to evolve, and keeping up with “all the things” can feel overwhelming. I know that’s true for me. My original health-coaching certification was built around four pillars of health. When I later prepared for the board certification exam, my studies included the six pillars of Lifestyle Medicine.
For us, the pillar that helps anchor the other five is relationships, community, and belonging. It is often where we find not only what I call our “want to,” but also the encouragement and confidence to believe we can.
With trusted support and accountability, the other areas of wellness become more manageable—and healthier habits more sustainable.
Our name comes from In Tandem, the group that inspired Tandem Lifestyle and reflects our belief that we were never meant to pursue life alone. The tandem bicycle has since become a fitting visual reminder: the right partner can provide encouragement, balance, direction, and momentum while allowing you to move forward at the right pace for you.
Your starting point may be self-discovery, targeted coaching to help you put your medical team’s recommendations into practice, a class, a natural wellness resource, or a connection to another trusted professional.
Wherever you begin, the goal is the same: to help you build a life supported by healthier, more sustainable habits—with knowledgeable guidance and supportive relationships beside you.
We were never meant to carry every part of life—or wellness—alone.
“Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.”
— Ecclesiastes 4:12 NLT
The Tandem Lifestyle Team
Penny LaClair-Toten
Co-Founder | M.A. Psychology | Master Certified Health Coach | Connector
My path to health and wellness coaching grew naturally from my career in Human Resources. During my years as an HR executive, I saw firsthand how stress, competing priorities, workplace demands, and life transitions can affect a person’s health and ability to care for themselves.
The skills I relied on throughout my HR career—listening carefully, asking thoughtful questions, helping people navigate change, and turning goals into practical action—became the foundation of my coaching. With an MA in Psychology from Pepperdine and certification as a Master Health and Wellness Coach, I bring experience in human behavior, leadership, and sustainable change to every coaching relationship.
My approach is collaborative, practical, and tailored to the individual. I help people clarify what matters to them, identify meaningful goals, and develop manageable habits that support their mind, body, and spirit.
When additional expertise would be valuable, I serve as a connector to trusted professionals who can provide specialized support.
Ron Toten
Co-Founder | Chief Administrative Officer | Certified Essential Oil Specialist
Ron brings a distinctive combination of scientific curiosity, technology leadership, and operational experience to Tandem Lifestyle. He earned his BS in Chemistry from the University of California, Davis, and has led large information technology and operations organizations throughout his career. He recently helped guide a technology startup through significant growth and a successful acquisition. Ron continues to serve as a business consultant for other start-up organizations helping them achieve the same success.
As Co-Founder and Chief Administrative Officer, Ron provides much of the operational and administrative leadership behind Tandem Lifestyle. His experience building organizations, developing systems, and translating complex information into practical solutions helps turn our vision into something sustainable.
Ron is also a Certified Essential Oil Specialist. His chemistry background has contributed to his interest in understanding the science behind essential oils and other natural wellness solutions, as well as how they can be thoughtfully incorporated into everyday life.
