Meet The Team
Lauren Murphy
Founder, CEO
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.
Michelle Washam
Founder, COO
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.
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.