Barbie acquired a B.S. in Education with a double major in Dance and Physical Education at Northern Illinois University. Since then, Barbie has taught physical education in the East Peoria Schools, choreographed several children's musicals, taught dance and swim lessons for area park districts and has over 20 years of experience in personal training and teaching group fitness classes.

Barbie has also been employed by the creators of R.I.P.P.E.D. and SilverSneakers as a Master Trainer, where she traveled, taught master classes, evaluated, and certified others to teach. Barbie currently also works at EastSide Centre in East Peoria where she manages group fitness, teaches and trains.