Meet Lisa Schoenthal | Transformational Guide & Authenticity Advocate

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

Hi Lisa, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
Work-life balance has always been an evolving concept for me. In my younger years, I was deeply immersed in building a career in special events, which I loved because it allowed me the freedom to travel extensively in the off-season. Travel has always been a way for me to reconnect with my most authentic self, free from worry and immersed in the beauty of new cultures and perspectives. However, at that stage of my life, work often took priority over personal wellness and self-care.

As I’ve grown and stepped into roles like being a yoga instructor, wellness coach, flight attendant, an author, a podcaster, and now a transformational guide, I’ve come to see balance differently. I no longer view work and life as two separate entities; instead, I’ve integrated them in a way that makes work an extension of play. I want my work to be fun, inspirational, and empowering—not just for others but also for myself. This integration has transformed how I approach life and allowed me to infuse joy and creativity into everything I do.

These days, I trust my gut more than ever. If something doesn’t feel good, I don’t force it. I know my greatest abundance and success come from enjoyment and collaborating with others who share that same energy and mindset. When I’m in flow—whether creating retreats, teaching yoga, writing, recording my podcast, or guiding others—I’m reminded that the most impactful work happens when I’m having fun and staying true to myself.

For me, balance isn’t just about managing time or energy anymore. It’s about aligning my work with my values and passions, creating harmony between what I do and who I am. By integrating work with play, I’ve found a way to thrive, not just survive, and create a life that feels as fulfilling as it is inspiring. I believe that’s were true wealth is created.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?

**Please tell us more about your career. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally? Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way? What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?**

My career has been anything but linear, and that’s one of the things I’m most proud of. I’ve woven together experiences from being a top sales rep in special event sales, a certified health and wellness coach, yoga instructor, flight attendant, author, podcaster, and transformational coach. These roles have allowed me to create a unique space in the world of personal growth and authenticity. What sets me apart is my ability to integrate all these experiences into my work, creating a blend of mindfulness, movement, nutrition, and travel that empowers people to transform their lives with purpose and joy.

One of the highlights of my journey has been authoring *The Men We Meet: 15 Key Lessons Learned in Love*, a deeply personal book about the transformative lessons I’ve learned through relationships. Writing the book was both challenging and rewarding—it was an opportunity to reflect on my experiences, share my truth, and help others find growth and gratitude in their own relationships.

I am super lit up right now by my recently launched podcast, *Sip Tea with Me*, which brings together generational wisdom and storytelling to help people live authentically. I’m also incredibly passionate about my retreats, like the upcoming *Sun, Sand, Sisterhood*, which are about building deep, transformational connections with others in beautiful, inspiring locations.

Getting to where I am today hasn’t been easy. There were moments of self-doubt, family backlash, and challenges that made me question whether sharing my truth was worth it. One of the hardest lessons I’ve learned is that not everyone will support your journey, even those closest to you. But through those challenges, I realized the importance of honoring myself and my truth. Living authentically and staying aligned with my values has been my guiding light.

One of the most profound lessons I’ve learned is that the path to success is rarely straightforward, and often, it’s in the detours and challenges where the most growth happens. I’ve learned to trust my gut, embrace flexibility, and find joy in the process. Collaboration and connection have also been key—working with others who share similar values has brought so much abundance and inspiration into my life.

What I want the world to know about my brand and story is that it’s all rooted in authenticity and transformation. My mission is to help others find their truth, embrace their gifts, and live in a way that’s both fulfilling and impactful. Whether it’s through my book, my retreats, or my mentorship, I aim to inspire people to create a life they love—a life that feels as good as it looks.

Every challenge I’ve faced has brought me closer to who I am today, and I’m grateful for the lessons along the way. My story is a testament to the power of resilience, connection, and the beauty of living authentically.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?

**Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area, and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary—say it was a week-long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc. In your view, what are some of the most fun, interesting, exciting people, places, or things to check out?**

If my best friend were visiting, I’d want to create a week that truly reflects the magic of Carpinteria and Santa Barbara, as well as the peaceful, soul-nourishing connection that comes from spending time in nature and good company.

**Day 1: Beach Day and Sunset Stroll**
We’d kick off with a morning yoga class at **Yoga Soup** to stretch out and set the tone for the week, followed by a stop at **Juice Ranch** for a refreshing green drink. Then, we’d head to Carpinteria’s beautiful beaches for a relaxing day of sunshine, sand, and a long stroll along the shoreline. Dinner would be at **Bettina**, enjoying their delicious artisan pizza and Caesar salad, followed by an cream from Rori’s as we watch the sunset.

**Day 2: Exploring Santa Barbara**
The next day, we’d explore Santa Barbara, strolling through the Funk Zone for art galleries, wine tasting, and boutique shops like Dylan Star. A must-visit would be the **Santa Barbara Mission**, where we could soak in some history and wander the stunning gardens. For lunch, we’d enjoy my fav, Mediterranean with influences from Spain, North Africa and the Middle East at Convivo The evening would end with a walk along Stearns Wharf, taking in the ocean views and a ride on the water taxi, Lil Toot!

**Day 3: Full Moon Magic**
If it aligns with the full moon, we’d attend **Full Moon Yoga and Sound Bath** at the Carousel building with Danielle from Foxy Sage. There’s something so powerful about practicing yoga and experiencing sound healing under the glow of the moon, right by the ocean. It’s a moment of connection and grounding I wouldn’t want them to miss.

**Days 4-6: Hollister Ranch Retreat**
For the real highlight of the trip, we’d spend a few days at our ranch in Hollister. There’s nothing quite like the lush green hills in spring, dotted with wild mustard and poppies, and the private beach hikes that make you feel like you’ve stepped into another world. The ranch is a warm, welcoming space with a huge fireplace where we can relax, pick fresh fruit and vegetables from the garden, and BBQ outside.

We’d spend our days exploring the hills, connecting with the horses and wildlife, and soaking in the breathtaking beauty of this Chumash Indian land, known as their western gate to nirvana. At night, we’d gather around the fire (with s’mores of course!) and watch the stars come alive—a sky so full of light that it reminds us of how small, yet deeply connected, we are. This is a place of rest, reflection, and reconnection—to yourself, others, and nature. It’s truly one of the most special places in the world, and I feel so blessed to share it.

**Day 7: Closing with Connection**
On our final day, we’d have a leisurely brunch in Carpinteria and a final walk along the beach. We’d spend time journaling or simply reflecting on the week, soaking in the gratitude for the beauty and connections we’ve experienced. I’d make sure my friend leaves feeling rested, inspired, and deeply reconnected to what matters most.

This itinerary is about more than just the places we visit—it’s about the feeling each experience brings. From the magic of yoga and sound baths to the tranquility of Hollister Ranch, it’s all about connection, joy, and the beauty of being fully present.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Absolutely, I’d love to dedicate my shoutout to my Grandma Pansy. Not only was she my Gram, I considered her to be a soul mate, mentor, friend, and confidant. She was a woman of incredible wisdom, warmth, and strength. My relationship with her was extra special—she always had a way of making everyone feel seen, valued, and loved. Her kitchen was a place of connection, where stories were shared, lessons were learned, and love was poured into every cup of tea.

Her influence is the heartbeat of my podcast, *Sip Tea with Me*. The show is my way of continuing her legacy—creating a space for storytelling, connection, and wisdom to be shared across generations. She taught me the importance of living authentically, finding joy in the simple moments, and always seeking to grow, love, and inspire. Living in her light, sharing what she shared with me allows me to carry her legacy onward.

Grandma Pansy’s presence in my life reminds me every day of the power of love and support. I’m so grateful for the lessons she passed on, and it’s because of her that I feel driven to create spaces where others can connect, grow, and find their purpose. She’s my inspiration, my guiding light, and the reason I believe so strongly in the power of community and connection. This shoutout is for her—thank you, Grandma Pansy, for teaching me to live from my heart without fear.

Website: https://www.lisaschoenthal.com

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-schoenthal-b71037b3

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

Other:
@lisaschoenthal
linktr.ee/lisaschoenthal

@sipteawme

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sip-tea-with-me-transformation-empowerment-authenticity/id1787619202