Biography
Jonna Naegele is a native Tennessean who grew up in Lebanon, TN, and discovered her passion for theater at Middle Tennessee State University. With a fierce love for the arts, Jonna dedicated herself to mentoring young people across the nation, inspiring them to pursue their dreams and find their purpose.
Over the past fourteen years, Jonna has established herself as one of the premier acting coaches in East America and Africa. Her influence in the film, television, and theater industries is profound, as she has built a strong network of directors, producers, casting agents, and representation both in the US and internationally. Through these connections, Jonna has successfully helped her students book major projects while also engaging actively with various non-profit organizations. Her commitment to giving back has earned her multiple "Philanthropist of the Year" awards.
Jonna's dedication to her students' growth and success led her to continuously seek knowledge and new skill sets. She holds educational credentials from notable institutes such as the Alliance Theater of the Woodruff, Clayton State University, and Arizona State University, where she is currently pursuing a doctorate in Epistemology. Moreover, Jonna has obtained global certification as a Life Coach through the International Coach Federation and the Certified Coaching Alliance, as well as a Brain Health Professional certification through Amen University.
As an acting coach, Jonna works with a diverse range of students, from working actors to beginners, delivering powerful coaching sessions that simplify and amplify their abilities in the professional industry. She is accredited by Ivana Chubbuck and studies under the world-renowned acting coach, author, and creator of The Chubbuck Technique. Jonna has mastered this technique for all ages, making her a one-of-a-kind approved skill.
Jonna conducts in-person classes at her Atlanta studios, Artistic Heights Academy and Coached By Jonna Inc., as well as worldwide through virtual sessions on Zoom. Her breakthrough sessions have received rave reviews and endorsements from students and clients from all over. Jonna also actively participates as a guest coach, host, and speaker at various non-profit organization events.
Apart from her coaching endeavors, Jonna is a trailblazer in various areas. She was the first African American to be titled Tennessee's Top Model in 2008 and the first host of Black Women in Jazz & Fine Arts, a nationally recognized day celebrated in March. She is also a founding instructor of Osiri University, teaching the Film Masters Degree Program.
In 2009, Jonna founded Artistic Heights Academy Inc., which provides training for all ages and skill levels, from foundational knowledge to elite workshops with industry leaders. The academy's priority is to secure top agents and managers for its students while educating them to maintain lasting partnerships. AHA has expanded its reach to Ghana, Africa, and will debut in India 2022.
With a remarkable list of productions and talent credits to her name, including "The First Lady," "Bunked" on Disney Channel, "Long Slow Exhale," and participation in various Disney and Tyler Perry projects, Jonna continues to make significant strides in the industry. Her accomplishments extend beyond her coaching role, as she has also ventured into voiceover work, earning recognition as a versatile VO talent across the nation.
Jonna's education includes Psychology, Dramatic Arts from Middle Tennessee State University. She also holds a Continuing Education Certificate in Presentational Speaking from Clayton State University. In addition, she has a diploma from the Certified Coaching Alliance and the International Coaching Federation. Jonna is pursing double majors in Philosophy and Film Production at Arizona State University while pursuing her doctorate in epistemology. Her commitment to brain health has led her to become a certified Brain Health Professional through Amen University.
In addition to her extensive skill set, Jonna possesses additional talents as a chemistry coach, intimacy specialist, and character developer for minors dealing with sensitive subject matter in productions. She can also speak elementary Italian and Twi (African).
Jonna Naegele embodies a holistic approach to coaching artists, helping them realize their fullest potential while maintaining their authenticity. Her dedication to elevating talent and industry knowledge contributes to the respect and demand for her unique coaching methods. As she often tells her students, "The most valuable tip I can give you in becoming successful is simply show up, and then show out... Why not?"
