We’re looking forward to introducing you to Shannon Chalmers. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Shannon, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Lately, I’ve been finding a lot of joy in riding my motorcycle and getting outside into nature. There’s something incredibly freeing about being on the open road, feeling the wind, and seeing the mountains or wide-open spaces around me. It’s not just about the ride—it’s about that sense of presence and connection. Spending time outdoors helps me recharge, find balance, and appreciate the beauty around me. It’s become a really important part of how I keep myself grounded and inspired outside of my work.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Shannon Chalmers, and I’m the founder and president of Yoga Social, a nonprofit based in Denver. Our mission is to make yoga and wellness accessible by bringing classes out of the traditional studio setting and into the community—whether that’s rooftops, breweries, gardens, art exhibits, or even with adoptable puppies and baby goats. What makes Yoga Social unique is that we combine movement with meaningful connections. Every event is designed not just to stretch your body, but also to build community, spark joy, and create memorable experiences.
My story is rooted in growing up surrounded by culture and community through my family’s small business, which instilled in me the importance of connection. Over the past few years, Yoga Social has partnered with more than 50 local businesses and nonprofits, been voted “Best in Denver” two years in a row, and continued to grow a community that’s welcoming to all levels, ages, and backgrounds. Right now, I’m especially excited about expanding our donation-based programming and seasonal experiences like rooftop silent disco yoga, candlelight full moon classes, and farm events. At the end of the day, my goal is to make sure everyone leaves with something meaningful—whether that’s having fun, meeting new friends, or deepening their connection to themselves and their community.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
I think bonds are often broken when there’s a lack of trust, communication, or respect. Misunderstandings, unspoken expectations, or people not feeling seen and valued can slowly create distance. In a world where we’re all moving so quickly, it’s easy to forget to pause and really listen to one another. That’s when disconnection creeps in.
What restores those bonds, though, is presence and empathy. When we take the time to be honest, to listen with an open heart, and to show up for one another consistently, healing begins. Shared experiences—whether that’s a yoga class, a walk in nature, or even just sitting together without distraction—remind us of our humanity and rebuild that trust. To me, connection is restored through intentionality and compassion.
When you were sad or scared as a child, what helped?
Breathwork. Even as a kid, I learned that if I could come back to my breath, I could calm myself down. Finding my breath gave me a sense of control when everything else felt overwhelming. Over time I realized that the breath is powerful—it can shift emotions, quiet fear, and bring you back into the present moment. That lesson has stayed with me throughout my life and is a huge part of why I love sharing yoga and mindfulness with others today.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
Inclusivity. I believe everyone deserves a space where they feel welcomed, safe, and valued exactly as they are. In my work with Yoga Social, that means creating classes and events that are accessible to all levels, all ages, and all walks of life. Protecting inclusivity at all costs ensures that people don’t just come for yoga—they come because they know they belong. For me, community isn’t built on perfection, it’s built on acceptance and connection.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What do you think people will most misunderstand about your legacy?
I think some people might assume my legacy is just about yoga events or the classes I’ve taught. But for me, it’s always been about something deeper—the connections built through those experiences. Yoga Social was never only about movement on a mat; it’s about creating spaces where people feel like they belong, where they can heal, laugh, and grow together. My legacy isn’t just yoga—it’s community. If that’s misunderstood, I hope over time it becomes clear that what I was building was never just an event calendar, but a culture of connection.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.yogasocial.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denveryogasocial/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Denveryogasocial/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@denveryogasocial
