Student & Employee of the Month: Stories That Inspire
Student of the Month: Scott Schnell
There’s often a moment in yoga when something clicks—and it stops being just movement and starts becoming something more. For Scott Schnell, that moment came unexpectedly, just three months into his yoga journey.
What began as a simple way to support his daughter, Sydney, quickly turned into a personal transformation. From lower back pain relief to newfound mental clarity, Scott discovered that yoga wasn’t just stretching—it was strength, stillness, and connection.
Since joining Soul Society, Scott has shown up with curiosity, an open mind, and the willingness to step outside his comfort zone. The results? More flexibility, less pain, and, as he describes it, a peace he didn’t know was possible.
Here’s more from Scott, in his own words:
How long have you been practicing yoga?
Just about three months now.
Why did you start practicing yoga?
It all started with my daughter, Sydney, who began working at Soul Society. I wanted to support her—but I never expected how much it would end up supporting me.
How has yoga transformed your life—physically, mentally, or emotionally?
So many ways, but I’ll be brief! My lower back pain—something I’ve struggled with for years—has almost completely disappeared. That alone is incredible.
But beyond the physical changes, I’ve found a calm and clarity I didn’t even know existed. Yoga has become this opportunity to focus, meditate, and even pray. I’m more flexible than I’ve ever been, and for the first time ever, I’ve found a workout I actually can’t wait to get to. It’s also been amazing to share this experience with my daughter.
What is your favorite Soul Society Yoga memory?
Definitely my first 6:00 AM class with Frost. We finished with Happy Baby pose, and while we were in position, Frost said, “If you’re ever in a heated conversation with someone and it’s getting confrontational, just drop down to your back in Happy Baby. It’ll diffuse the situation.” It cracked me up—and stuck with me!
June is Men’s Health and Mental Health Awareness Month—how has your yoga practice supported your mental or emotional well-being?
Yoga has really helped me focus inward—something I’ve always struggled with. Soul Society, the instructors, and the community have created a safe, supportive place to learn, grow, and step outside my comfort zone.
Even after just a few months, I find a real sense of calm and peace throughout my day when I’ve practiced yoga. I didn’t expect that mental clarity and peacefulness—but it’s been such a welcome surprise.
What would you say to other men who may feel hesitant to try yoga, especially when it comes to taking care of their mental health?
Put aside any judgment or preconceived notions. Come as you are, be open-minded, and give yoga an honest chance—for you. It could change your life.
From the Soul Society Yoga Team:
We’re so grateful to have Scott as part of the Soul Society community. His story is proof that yoga isn’t about how long you’ve been practicing—it’s about showing up, staying curious, and discovering what’s possible when you give yourself permission to grow.
Congratulations, Scott—thank you for inspiring us all to keep showing up, on and off the mat.
Employee of the Month: Frost
There’s something magnetic about a teacher who reminds you to work hard—but also not take yourself too seriously. For Frost, that balance of challenge and lightheartedness is exactly what makes their classes so memorable.
Since joining Soul Society 1.5 years ago, Frost has brought humor, authenticity, and steady encouragement to the studio. Their approach to yoga is grounded in the belief that this practice isn’t just something you do—it’s part of how we thrive.
Here’s more from Frost, in his own words:
How long have you been part of Soul Society Yoga?
About a year and a half.
Why did you start practicing yoga?
Why do you eat food? Why do you breathe air? Why do you practice yoga?
All the same answer—it's what the body and mind need to thrive.
How has yoga transformed your life—physically, mentally, or emotionally?
I’m lucky. I’ve lived a charmed life without major personal, physical, or mental challenges. But yoga smooths the path. You don’t have to hit rock bottom to want to live more peacefully—it just helps you find an easier, steadier way forward.
What’s one lesson you’ve learned from your students?
That everyone likes a challenge—but they prefer to meet it with a smile and maybe a little laughter. That energy? It makes all the difference.
What inspires your approach to teaching, and how do you hope students feel after class?
I want people to feel better, plain and simple. I hope they leave class feeling happier—not just about yoga, but about life and themselves.
Is there a specific element or philosophy you weave into your classes that makes your style uniquely yours?
Challenge yourself—but don’t take yourself, or me, too seriously.
From the Soul Society Yoga Team:
Frost’s presence reminds us that yoga doesn’t have to be intimidating. It can be playful, grounding, and deeply rewarding—all at once. Their classes offer space to grow, space to laugh, and space to reconnect with yourself without judgment.
Congratulations, Frost—thank you for the joy, humor, and support you bring to Soul Society every day. You make our community stronger in every sense of the word.