Meet Scott Monson | Aqua Duks Swim School Owner

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

Hi Scott, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?

Owning a swim school had always been a dream, I just didn’t know how to make it real. So, I committed to learning everything I could. I took on increasing responsibilities at established swim schools, built real relationships with other owners, and stayed alert for the right opportunity.

When a small swim school came up for sale, I jumped. I left my role as Director at a fast-growing school, and we sold our house to fund the leap. I didn’t have all the answers. But I knew one thing: I’d figure it out.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Aqua Duks Swim School was born out of both passion and persistence. I didn’t grow up thinking I’d own a swim school — but once the idea planted itself, it never really let go. I dedicated myself to learning the industry from the inside out, growing my responsibilities at established schools, building relationships with other owners, and watching for the right opportunity. When that moment came — the chance to purchase a small swim school — I jumped in headfirst. I left my role as a director, sold our house to fund the leap, and told myself: I’ll figure it out.

It wasn’t easy. There were more unknowns than I can count, and challenges that tested every part of me — especially in the early years. But what kept me going was our mission: to enrich lives through swimming. That mission, along with our core values of safety, trust, community, growth, and professionalism, have guided every decision and helped us grow into something truly meaningful.

What sets Aqua Duks apart isn’t just our programs — it’s the heart behind them. We’re not a franchise. We’re not a copy-paste model. We’re a tight-knit team of people who genuinely care. Our instructors know your child’s name, our front desk celebrates your swimmer’s milestones, and every lesson is built on the belief that swimming should be safe, empowering, and fun.

I’m incredibly proud of the community we’ve built — not just among our families, but within our team. We’ve faced tough decisions, like relocating in the first years of business when our lease was uncertain and the future felt scary. But those moments forced growth, and now, I look around at a facility that reflects the vision I held onto through all of it.

If there’s one thing I’d want the world to know about Aqua Duks, it’s that we’re more than a swim school. We’re a place where kids are seen, supported, and celebrated. Where progress is personal. Where families feel safe. And where a lifelong love of swimming begins.

What’s one thing about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
This industry has changed a lot in the last 20 years, and it’s growing fast. It’s now on the radar of investors and private equity firms, leading to a wave of national franchises. That’s made it harder for independently owned swim schools like ours to compete. But it’s also why we double down on what makes us different: personal relationships, a strong mission, and a deep commitment to the community and families we serve.

Risk taking — how do you think about risk, and what role has it played in your life and career?
I’ve always believed that big rewards come from big risks. And I’m probably more comfortable with risk than most. That mindset got me here. But it also meant I’ve made some tough calls that didn’t work out.

As I’ve grown my business acumen, I’ve become more intentional with where I spend my time and energy. These days, I take risks with more strategy behind them. I still lead with a vision, but I also lean on experience, our team, and the data to make better decisions.

Other than deciding to work for yourself, what’s the most important decision you’ve made that contributed to your success?
Marrying my wife, Sarah Monson. She’s my biggest supporter and the person who’s believed in me the most. There were times I thought about walking away, and she never let me. Her commitment, strength, and support have been behind every success we’ve had.

What is the most important factor behind your success — or the success of your brand?
Our mission: to enrich lives through swimming. That, along with our core values: safety, trust, community, growth, and professionalism, guides every decision.

We’re not a franchise. We’re not built on a cookie-cutter model. We’re a close-knit team with heart and expertise. Our instructors know your children by his or her first and last name. They have a close relationship with each child and family. Our front desk celebrates milestones. Every lesson is personal, safe, and empowering. That level of personalization, compassion, and care is what sets us apart.

What’s the most difficult decision you’ve ever had to make?
Relocating our swim school in the early years of business. Our original lease was unstable, and the future felt uncertain. We didn’t know how we’d afford to build out a new facility, but deep down, I knew this move had to happen if we were going to grow into the vision I held. It was scary, but it forced us to stretch and build something better.

How has your view of work-life balance changed over time?
In the early days, I wore every hat, and I was in all the seats. But I have two young kids, Scotty and Lucy, and I always knew I wanted to be there for them. That forced me to figure out how to run a strong business without being tied to it 24/7.

We built an amazing team and implemented an operating system that allows us to run efficiently, communicate clearly, and build a foundation of trust in each other. That shift changed everything for both the business and my family.

Do you have a favorite quote or affirmation?
My dad always told me: “The choices we make every day determine our path. Make more good choices than bad ones, and you’ll be OK.”

That’s stuck with me. It’s simple, but powerful and it reminds me that consistent effort matters.

What do you want your legacy to be?
I hope people remember that I tried to enrich the lives of others, that I built something meaningful, made a positive impact, and showed up for the people who trusted me along the way.

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 was in town, we’d surf Seal Beach in the morning, grab brunch at The Attic, and spend the afternoons hitting local breweries like Ambitious Ales and Trademark. We’d golf at Black Gold, take a day trip to Catalina, and wrap it up with drinks and a view at Ballast Point in Long Beach. Simple—surf, golf, good beer, good food.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
If I could dedicate my shoutout to anyone, it would be my wife and biggest supporter, Sarah Monson. There have been moments where I was ready to give up on my dreams, and every time, she stood firmly in my corner and refused to let me quit. Her constant belief in me, her willingness to do whatever it takes, and her unwavering support have been a direct part of every success we’ve achieved. I truly wouldn’t be where I am today without her.

Website: https://aquaduks.com

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

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/aqua-duks-swim-school-anaheim

Other: https://maps.app.goo.gl/seiCNhZsTWR792798