Meet The Team

Meet Our Providers

Dr. Jeffrey Gladden

MD, FACC

Battling fatigue, anxiety, and depression, he embarked on a transformative journey into unearthing answers to his own health challenges. Fueled by the question, “How good can I be?” Dr. Gladden transitioned from a conventional health care approach to championing peak human performance. Today, his life is a testament to this transformation, exemplifying boundless vitality through activities like running, surfing, mountain biking, and music. Dr. Gladden’s journey beckons us to embrace our ageless potential and embark on a path to Live Young for a Lifetime.

Dr. Jeffrey Gladden’s story is one of remarkable transformation and pioneering vision. With a background in interventional cardiology, he founded Gladden Longevity + Advanced Performance Center. Graduating from Temple University with Honors in Medicine, he delved into various cardiology domains, leaving an indelible mark on the field. Dr. Gladden holds the position of Director of Heart Attack and Stroke Prevention and Cardiac Rehabilitation at The Heart Hospital Baylor Plano, which he co-founded in 2004. Additionally, he plays pivotal roles at Scientia Cardio Access and Scientia Vascular as CEO, CMO, and board member. Despite these achievements, his personal and professional life encountered a pivotal shift in his mid-fifties.

Luke Sorrell

MD

From an early age, Luke Sorrell was drawn to the medical field, driven by a passion for science and a deep desire to help others. His journey began with a degree from Abilene Christian University, followed by medical school at The University of Texas at Houston, and an internal medicine residency at Baylor University Medical Center in Dallas. Initially, Luke worked as a hospitalist before transitioning to primary care, believing it would be his long-term path.

While he valued the relationships he built with patients in primary care, Luke became frustrated with the reactive nature of traditional medicine. Late diagnoses of serious conditions, unchecked progression of pre-diabetes, and inadequate management of cardiovascular disease highlighted the need for a more proactive approach.

This realization led Luke to functional and longevity medicine, focusing on early detection, comprehensive interventions, and addressing root causes. Joining Dr. Gladden and Gladden Longevity felt like a perfect fit, aligning with his dedication to helping people “Live Young for a Lifetime.”

Luke lives in the Dallas – Fort Worth suburbs with his wife and two daughters. In his free time, he enjoys researching longevity medicine, exploring new restaurants with his wife, traveling, spending time with family, and participating in church fellowship.

Tammy Head

Tammy Head

MSN, APRN, FNP-C, FAAMFM

Tammy Head is a distinguished healthcare professional who blends extensive hands-on experience with a strong academic foundation. She began her career with a Nursing degree from Gulf Coast State College in 2016, excelling in various roles over six years in the ER, and honing her expertise in wound care and long-term acute care. Her educational journey culminated in 2022 with a Master’s degree in nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington followed by d fellowship at A4M to begin her journey with functional medicine.

Tammy’s passion for healthcare was ignited in high school, inspired by the compelling stories shared by her family members who worked as ER nurses. This early interest only deepened during her college years as she encountered diverse challenges and rewards within the nursing field.

Central to Tammy’s approach is her belief in empowering patients through education and fostering independence. She prioritizes helping patients understand their options and potential outcomes, enabling them to make informed decisions that align with their individual lifestyles. This patient-centered philosophy sets her apart from traditional healthcare practices.

Beyond her professional life, Tammy is a dedicated mother of three who brings the same level of commitment to her family as she does to her career. Her alignment with Gladden Longevity’s mission was immediate and natural, as the clinic’s emphasis on youth, longevity, and patient-centric care resonates deeply with her holistic approach to health and wellness.

Meet Our Nutrition Team

Dr. Megan Lyons

Doctor of Clinical Nutrition (DCN), CCN, BCHN, MSHN, MBA

Head Health & Happiness Honcho, The Lyons’ Share Wellness

Megan Lyons, founder and owner of The Lyons’ Share Wellness, has shared her game-changing approach to wellness with thousands through personalized health coaching, corporate and group wellness programs, and motivational speaking. She helps busy professionals manage work-life balance, health enthusiasts reach optimal levels, and those who’ve neglected their health feel better than ever.

With over 10 years in business, Megan has completed more than 12,000 hours of 1-to-1 nutrition consulting. Her expertise ranges from weight loss and emotional eating to managing thyroid dysfunction, reversing prediabetes, and complementing chronic disease therapies. Her deep training in Functional Medicine and integrative nutrition enables her to address root issues, not just symptoms.

Megan hosts the popular podcast, Wellness Your Way, and authored the Amazon bestseller “Start Here: 7 Easy, Diet-Free Steps to Achieve Your Ultimate Health and Happiness.” She holds degrees from Harvard and Northwestern, and certifications in holistic and clinical nutrition. She’s currently pursuing a Doctorate of Clinical Nutrition. Megan lives in Dallas with her husband and dogs, and enjoys working out, cooking, reading, traveling, and cheering on the Dallas Mavericks.

Dr. Ashley Anderson

Doctor of Clinical Nutrition (DCN), CNS, LDN

Ashley is a dedicated board-certified IFM functional medicine practitioner with over ten years of experience in functional medicine and twenty years in nutrition and fitness. Her wellness journey began in college as a fitness instructor and personal trainer, leading to a Bachelor of Science degree in Health, Human Performance, Recreation, and Coaching from The University of Wisconsin Whitewater in 2003.

Her life took a significant turn in 2013 when her mother passed away from ALS, and Ashley began experiencing autoimmune symptoms. Conventional medicine offered limited guidance, prompting her to explore functional medicine. This approach improved her health, driving her to help others take control of their well-being.

Ashley pursued a master’s degree in human nutrition and functional medicine, opened a private practice in Madison, WI, and obtained certifications from the Institute for Functional Medicine and the American Nutrition Association. A mother of four, she understands the challenges of balancing health with a busy life. Currently, she is pursuing a Doctorate in Clinical Nutrition, set to complete in September 2024. Ashley lives in Madison, WI, with her family and enjoys gardening, reading, outdoor activities, and live music in her free time.

Kassady Backes

CNS

Kassady Backes (Kass) is a functional nutritionist and health coach who gets it. She’s been there: impossible fad diets, endless medications and supplements to cover up symptoms, and providers that don’t truly hear you.

Kass knows optimal health is cultivated through small, sustainable changes and by looking upstream to bring the body back into balance. She’s passionate about creating an empowering and shame-free space to meet clients where they’re at.

Kass has experience working 1 on 1 with clients as well as leading educational classes. She is a Certified Nutrition Specialist Candidate currently pursuing her Master of Science in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine. In addition, she has a Bachelor of Health Science, Biology Minor, and countless hours spent researching and advancing through education and change techniques.

Outside of work, Kass can typically be found walking around barefoot outside, listening to health podcasts, attempting ceramics, and planning her next travel destination. She is a Missouri native currently residing in San Diego, CA with her partner and cat.

Meet Our Medical Team

Omar Gonzalez, RN

Registered Nurse

Born and raised in Fort Worth, Texas, Omar has dedicated his career to making a difference in the lives of others. He began his nursing journey in January 2020, gaining invaluable experience in the fast-paced environment of the ER before transitioning to Gladden Longevity, where he has been providing exceptional patient care for the past two years.

Beyond his professional expertise, Omar enjoys spending time with friends, exploring new restaurants—especially those specializing in chicken—and bringing energy to any gathering with private karaoke performances. He also takes great pride in caring for Tracy, his beloved bearded dragon.

Known for his vibrant personality and signature collection of unique, colorful socks, Omar believes in finding joy in both work and life. Whether in a clinical setting or enjoying time with loved ones, he brings dedication, enthusiasm, and a personal touch to everything he does.

Tawnii McGowan

Licensed Vocational Nurse

From a young age, Tawnii knew she wanted to be in the healthcare industry after watching her best friend navigate life with diabetes. That passion led me to start as an EMT, where she gained invaluable experience in emergency medicine before becoming a nurse. Now, she is excited to take her journey even further by focusing on optimizing health and performance at Gladden Longevity.

Outside of her profession, Tawnii is a big family person who loves spending quality time with loved ones, solving escape rooms, and exploring new destinations through travel.

Meet Our Director of Fitness

Zack Jenkins

MS, CPT

Zack Jenkins is an accomplished Fitness Director with a distinguished academic background, holding a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from East Carolina University and a Master of Science in Kinesiology, specializing in Biomechanics, from the University of Tennessee. As a NASM-Certified Personal Trainer (NASM-CPT), Zack is deeply committed to helping individuals achieve their fitness goals through evidence-based training methods. His approach emphasizes both peak performance and long-term health, ensuring clients not only reach their objectives but maintain them sustainably.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Zack is dedicated to leading an active and fulfilling personal life. He cherishes spending time with his wife, Ashlynn, and their dog, Zoey, and values the moments shared with close friends. Zack remains actively involved in his community, whether he’s running, walking the scenic Katy Trail, or enjoying a round of golf. His passion for fitness and well-being extends into every aspect of his life, making him a well-rounded and inspiring leader in the field.

Meet Our Director of Client Relations and Sales

Grace Biggs

As the director of client relations and sales at Gladden Longevity, I have the privilege of being the first point of contact for clients, guiding them through the onboarding process, conducting discovery calls, and managing program renewals. What I enjoy most about my role is building genuine relationships with our clients and helping them navigate their journey to optimal health. Seeing their progress and knowing we’re making a real impact on their longevity and performance is what drives me every day.

Before joining Gladden Longevity, I worked in the ER as a medical scribe, where I saw firsthand how reactive medicine often falls short. That experience reinforced my passion for preventative and performance-based healthcare, leading me to a career where I can help people take control of their health before issues arise.

I have a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of North Texas, giving me a strong foundation in understanding the science behind longevity and high performance.

Outside of work, you’ll find me playing soccer, sand volleyball, or golf, or spending time with friends and family. I believe longevity is about more than just adding years—it’s about making every year count.

At Gladden Longevity, I’m here to ensure your journey is seamless, personalized, and built to help you thrive.

Meet Our Office Manager

Jaylin Koenig, MA

Office Manager Concierge

Jaylin has been an integral part of Gladden Longevity for the past five years, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a passion for health optimization. Prior to joining our team, she served as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) in a bustling emergency room for five years, where she honed her skills in high-pressure medical environments.

Her extensive background in emergency care has equipped Jaylin with the expertise to address diverse health challenges effectively. She is deeply committed to enhancing health, longevity, and overall performance through innovative, evidence-based strategies. Currently, Jaylin is furthering her education by pursuing a degree in Business Management, which will complement her clinical experience and enhance her ability to support our clients.

At Gladden Longevity, Jaylin excels in providing exceptional care, guiding clients on their journeys toward improved well-being and vitality. Her compassionate approach and dedication to client success make her an invaluable resource for those seeking to optimize their health.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Jaylin enjoys reading and cherishes quality time with her husband and daughter. She is also excitedly anticipating the arrival of another daughter in August, which adds to her joy and dedication to family life.

We are proud to have Jaylin on our team, where her commitment to excellence and passion for health inspire both colleagues and clients alike.

Mission, Vision, Philosophy

Mission: To unlock the ageless potential within each individual through cutting-edge solutions that optimize healthspan, elevate performance, and extend longevity for both our valued clients and us.

Vision: Our vision is to redefine the human experience; to empower individuals to unlock their ageless potential, enabling them to thrive vibrantly at every stage of life.

Philosophy: Our philosophy is rooted in the belief that the conventional understanding of aging as a linear process is flawed. Instead, we recognize aging as an exponential challenge, and maintain that our capacity to ask meaningful questions, without attachment to our answers, provides innovative solutions to Live Young for a Lifetime.