Meet Laura Monk | Yoga Instructor, Community Connector & Founder of Soulfish Events

We had the good fortune of connecting with Laura Monk and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Laura, can you talk to us a bit about the social impact of your business?
For me, Soulfish Events has always been about connection. I create spaces where people can come together through movement, music, and mindfulness. I’ve seen firsthand how powerful it can be when people gather with intention. When we move together, we remember that we’re not alone, and that sense of community can change everything.

My classes at Sunset Cliffs have become such a beautiful example of that. Each week, I watch people from all different backgrounds come together: locals, travelers, first-time yogis, longtime practitioners, all sharing space by the ocean as the sun sets. It’s not just about yoga; it’s about belonging. I want everyone who shows up to feel seen, supported, and part of something real.

The social impact of this work goes far beyond the mat. When someone leaves class feeling grounded, joyful, or inspired, they carry that energy into their families, their work, and their communities. I truly believe that when we take care of ourselves, we show up more compassionately for others, and that’s how real change starts.

Through Soulfish, my hope is to keep creating experiences that help people reconnect to themselves, to nature, and to each other. Because when we find that sense of flow and connection, the world becomes a little more kind, a little more open, and a lot more human.

What should our readers know about your business?
Soulfish Events was created from my desire to bring people together through movement, nature, and music. What started as small, intentional gatherings has evolved into a community that’s rooted in connection, creativity, and the belief that wellness should feel accessible, joyful, and real.

What sets Soulfish apart is the way we blend yoga, music, and mindful experiences with a sense of play and community. Whether it’s a sunset class at the cliffs, a women’s retreat in the desert, or an international adventure in Nicaragua, everything we do is centered around helping people reconnect to themselves, to each other, and to the world around them.

Getting here hasn’t been easy. Like many small business owners, I’ve navigated uncertainty, burnout, and self-doubt. There were moments where it felt like I was building from scratch all over again. (And again and againg). But each challenge taught me something about resilience, about trusting timing, and about the importance of staying aligned with my “why.” When I focus on community over competition and authenticity over perfection, everything else seems to fall into place.

I’m most proud of the people Soulfish has brought together. Those who show up with open hearts, who support one another, and who remind me that this work matters. Seeing someone walk into an event alone and leave with new friends, laughter, and a renewed sense of self. That’s what success looks like to me.

What I want the world to know about Soulfish is that it’s not just about yoga or events; it’s about creating moments that make you feel alive and connected. It’s about rediscovering the flow that already exists within you and remembering that you’re part of something much bigger.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend came to town, I’d want them to feel the rhythm of San Diego — the blend of ocean energy, creativity, and community that makes this place so special.

We’d start slow, grabbing coffee at Lovesong or Muri in North Park, followed by a stroll through Balboa Park to shake off the travel haze and soak in some art and sunshine. Brunch would be at Little Lion Café in Sunset Cliffs, and afterward, we’d walk the coastline, letting the ocean set the pace. One evening, we’d roll out our mats for a sunset yoga class at the Cliffs, courtesy of one of my peers in the local yoga community. There’s nothing quite like moving with the sound of waves and watching the sky melt into color, which is pure San Diego magic.

Midweek, we’d head east for a change of scenery. A morning hike in Mount Laguna, surrounded by pine trees and sweeping desert views, followed by a drive up to Julian for wine tasting at Blue Door Winery or Menghini Winery. Naturally, we’d cap it off with the best pizza at Julian Beer Co, and possibly checking out Calico Cidery on our way back down the mountain.

Back in the city, I’d plan a night out starting with dinner at Starlite, the kind of place that feels timeless and tucked away, and always worth the hype. Another favorite is Fort Oak in Mission Hills, which never disappoints.

For live music, nothing beats catching a show under the stars at The Rady Shell, Quartyard or Gallagher Square, all mix the city setting with the best vibes.

The rest of the week would be a balance of slow mornings, ocean dips, and exploring local favorites — shopping at Artelexia in North Park or the fun and quirky Flashbacks in Hillcrest, grabbing smoothies, or people-watching at Windansea Beach. We’d end the trip the way San Diego always asks you to, watching the sun set over the water, feeling both calm and completely alive.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are so many people and communities that have played a part in shaping both my journey and Soulfish Events. First, I have to thank the incredible community at CorePower Yoga. I’m heading into my 11th year of teaching there, and it continues to be one of the most grounding, growth-filled parts of my life. To the 6am die-hards at Fit Athletic, thank you for showing up with energy and commitment before the sun even rises. You inspire me every single day, and knowing you set your alarm to come to class is what drives me to be there. And to those who come to SoulStoked events with friends or solo, trusting that a community will be there to meet them — you are the heartbeat of what I do.

I’m also endlessly grateful for the community that gathered at Sunset Cliffs to help keep accessible yoga alive when people needed it most. Those moments reminded me of why I started doing this work in the first place. We want to bring people together when connection feels hard to find.

To my family, who are 3,000 miles away, thank you for always cheering me on from afar. To one of my best friends, Whitney Mann. We joke that she’s the Soulfish Intern of the Month, but truly, her friendship, humor, and creative input have been a constant source of encouragement.

I also want to shout out my peers in the wellness space who continue to challenge norms, stay authentic, and push creativity beyond the trends.

Lastly, my lululemon family deserves a huge thank you. They’ve supported me through so many stages of this journey and helped make some incredible free community events come to life. My ambassadorship with them will be coming to a close in February, but I know the relationships and shared passion for community will last far beyond that.

None of this happens alone. I’m so lucky to be surrounded by people who show up, lift me higher, and remind me daily of the power of connection.

Website: https://www.soulfishevents.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soulfishevents/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/soulfishmonk/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soulfishevents/

Image Credits
Rachel Frank
Liberty Station
Liz Avery photography