Meet Our Team
Veronica McPike APRN, FNP-C, CSOWM
Veronica is a nurse practitioner co-founder of Merit Weight Loss. She is a Certified Specialist in Obesity and Weight Management. She believes in the importance of enjoying life while pursuing healthy habits, avoiding the all or nothing mentality. She is itty-bitty (4’ 11”), but very witty. She is the queen of one-liners and the resident commander of the office. She is happiest with her hair in a bun and her hands wrapped around a mug of hot tea. She believes that all good things are creamy. She answers to any name that starts with a V (Valerie, Victoria). Veronica is genuine and empathetic, loves getting to know people. In her off time she enjoys long walks or being a taxi for one of her four daughters. Yes, 4 daughters…her husband, Michael, is blessed.
Stephanie Sisk APRN, WHNP-BC
Stephanie is a nurse practitioner and a co-founder of Merit Weight Loss. She has her Certificate of Advanced Education in Obesity Medicine through the Obesity Medicine Association. Stephanie believes in curating a space that is non-judgmental and welcoming for all. Topeka girl, born and raised. She is high energy and motivating. She is the Chief content creator and social media guru. You can find Stephanie singing through the office while sipping her coffee (from one of the 5 cups she has around the office). Stephanie loves a good loud bell ring to celebrate client’s success (yes, we have a bell!). Her Mother-in-Law, also Stephanie, is Merit’s very generous and talented interior designer. She is married to Topeka legend(ish), Brady Sisk (former WU Basketball player, measuring in at 6’9”). She is called Mom by two beautiful girls, Quinn and Claire, who match the high energy of their mom and got their height from their dad.
Linnie Rieger, MS in Dietetics and Nutrition
Linnie is Merit’s Nutrition and Lifestyle Specialist. She was born and raised in Hiawatha, KS. Linnie felt called to Merit because she believes people should be empowered to make nutritious decisions and that eating healthy doesn’t have to be boring. Linnie is the Master of meal planning and knows all things nutrition. She is a bookworm and researcher. Linnie is the most talented of the team. She plays like 100 instruments (piano, pipe organ, flute, piccolo, violin and working on the guitar) and is a skilled photographer. Linnie is down to earth and is always wearing a smile. She loves to organize and Veronica and Stephanie are thankful for this. She and her husband, Luke, are proud parents of their sons, Barrett and Brooks.
Lyndsay Joy - Office Manager
Lyndsay is Merit’s Office Manager extraordinaire. She is the voice you will hear when you call in to Merit for scheduling or questions. She keeps the office running efficiently and we wouldn’t survive without her! She has lived all around the world, but has lived near Topeka for the last 10 years. Lyndsay is married to Jacob (one of the handiest and nicest men around), and proud mother to Paytin and Phiefer (can’t forget her fur-babies, Chief and Paisley!). Lyndsay’s organization and gift-giving skills are second to none, and she loves her label maker. Always remember, if you need a hug, Lyndsay is your gal!
Nickie McCall - Office Medical Assistant
Nickie is Merit’s medical office assistant. She is the smiling bright face that will greet you when you arrive. She motivates our patients during their weekly check-ins. Her over 15 years of knowledge and expertise in endocrinology ensures our patients get their questions answered, and their experience is enjoyable and seamless. Nickie is a born and raised Topekan. She is married to Darren and has two adult daughters, Hannah and Sydney. She is an animal lover with 2 dogs and a cat. Her favorite holiday is New Year's Day, because she loves the idea of a fresh start. When she is not at Merit, you can find Nickie hanging out with her twin sister, camping, and trying to keep plants alive.
Hannah Laurer APRN, FNP-C
Hannah is a nurse practitioner at Merit with an upbeat personality and attention to detail, helping our patients stay motivated, and always leaving with a plan. Hannah grew up in St. Mary’s, KS. She is married to Casey, with three children, Jack, Zoe, and Tait. In her free time she loves decorating and if there is a bargain to be found, she will find it. She enjoys all things sports, including watching her children, KSU, Chiefs, and Royals. She has a background in Pediatrics and Family Medicine, with a passion for weight loss. Fun fact: Hannah has a very crooked right arm. Just ask, she’ll show you!