Speaking Truth & Finding Peace | Monika McKenzie | Owner of The Yoga Nest Hawaii

Monika McKenzie is the owner of The Yoga Nest, the only Black-owned yoga studio in Hawaii, where she blends physical practice with grounding, spiritual, and trauma-releasing work. She’s also a passionate social justice advocate who refuses to stay silent in the face of injustice, even when it means standing alone. Her journey spans Phoenix, Oakland, Detroit, and Hawaii, weaving together motherhood, entrepreneurship, and activism. Monika shares how yoga became her path to healing, why speaking up is non-negotiable, and how she finds balance through community, self-care, and honest conversations about race and equity. This episode offers inspiration for anyone looking to align their purpose with their actions while protecting their peace. Chapters: 00:00 – How Monika Found Yoga and Built The Yoga Nest 02:32 – From New Mom to Yoga Studio Owner in Hawaii 05:00 – Why Yoga Is More Than Physical Practice 08:00 – Combining Spiritual Grounding with Trauma Release 12:00 – Owning the Only Black-Owned Yoga Studio in Hawaii 16:57 – Speaking Out Against Injustice, Even When It’s Lonely 20:00 – Building Community Through Yoga and Advocacy 25:00 – The Role of Yoga in Social Justice Movements 29:00 – Balancing Activism, Motherhood, and Entrepreneurship 34:00 – Root Chakra Work for Grounding and Resilience 38:00 – How to Find Peace Without Losing Your Voice 42:00 – Lessons from Leading During Times of Crisis 47:00 – Books and Teachers Who’ve Shaped Her Path 50:00 – Staying Rooted While Creating Change The Powerful Ladies podcast, hosted by business coach and strategist Kara Duffy features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, writers, scientists, and more. Every Wednesday, new episodes explore what it means to lead with purpose, create with intention, and define success on your own terms. Whether you're growing a business, changing careers, or asking bigger questions, these stories remind you: you're not alone, and you're more powerful than you think. Explore more at thepowerfulladies.com and karaduffy.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices