Meet Steph Holm Sexton of Kansas City

Today we’d like to introduce you to Steph Holm Sexton.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My mom taught the first yoga class I ever took. I was in college, in the midst of finals week, and I distinctly remember how different I felt after a short practice—more at peace, more at ease. I was instantly hooked. Whenever I was home, I’d take her class at the local fitness center, but it was moving to New York City that really deepened my practice.

When I arrived in New York, I spent a lot of time solo, and with that space, I began to build a personal practice. Online workouts were just starting to take off, and I stumbled across a 45-minute Jillian Michaels yoga “workout” (yes, Jillian Michaels!). I also discovered that Lululemon hosted free in-store classes, so I began going twice a week—one in Union Square, one in Meatpacking. That’s what really pulled me deeper into the yoga.

It wasn’t long before I started working at Lululemon and became fully immersed in New York’s boutique fitness scene. I began practicing regularly at a hot yoga studio, formerly Modo Yoga, before realizing I didn’t need the extra heat. And that’s when I found my groove at Laughing Lotus NYC. It was a vinyasa studio rooted in yogic tradition but with a creative, joyful flow.

Seven years and over 500 classes later, I completed my 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training at Laughing Lotus as part of their final cohort before the studio sadly closed due to COVID. Since 2020, I’ve been cultivating my teaching style—starting with friends and family, and eventually landing at two fantastic studios in Kansas City.

Yoga Patch gave me my first studio teaching opportunity, taking a chance on someone who hadn’t yet taught in-person. I started with one early morning class a week—6:30am, and over three years, I built a strong group of regulars and expanded to Saturday mornings and Wednesday nights.

In January 2025, I began teaching at Eastbrook Studios, a beautiful, new space offering barre, Pilates, and of course – yoga. I teach Vinyasa I classes there, geared toward beginners. I take a lot of pride in being someone’s introduction to yoga—it’s something I don’t take lightly.

Beyond studio teaching, I also offer private 1:1 sessions, corporate classes, and event-based experiences like bachelorette parties, girls’ weekends and even festivals.

With yoga, I didn’t just find myself—I learned how to settle into myself. Connecting to my body and breath has been one of the greatest gifts of my life, and it’s something I feel truly privileged to share with others.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It’s been a long road. I knew early on that I wanted to teach, but training was cost-prohibitive and required a time commitment I couldn’t manage while living in New York City in my 20s. COVID gave me the time, space, and—thanks to a stimulus check—the push I needed to finally commit.

I envision opening my own studio someday, but I’ve allowed myself to take it slow. Over the past five years, I’ve built my classes steadily, showing up consistently and offering high-quality classes. I’ve expanded my schedule, added new offerings as opportunities have come up. This year, I feel a real sense of momentum. I’m excited about what’s ahead.

Balancing it all with a full-time job isn’t always easy. It’s a lot to juggle, and I’m incredibly grateful to my husband for supporting me as I pursue this passion and purpose through yoga.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I teach vinyasa yoga, a dynamic and fluid practice that links breath with movement. My classes weave together breath, intention, and thoughtful sequencing to create a flow that feels both artful and accessible.

For me, teaching yoga is like telling a story, with each class unfolding in real time. I blend asanas (poses) and breath in a way that meets students where they are while inviting them to stretch their limits and deepen their connection with themselves.

By showing up consistently and treating each class as a living, breathing story we co-create, I’ve built a loyal community who come back not just for the poses, but for the connection. Yoga, for me, is a creative practice integral to my overall wellbeing. I take pride in creating a space that feels safe, welcoming, and inspiring for others.

Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
Building something great takes time, so be gentle with yourself and give yourself grace. It’s important to develop consistent practices and routines that fit your life and schedule—ones that actually support your work and you, not add stress.

Say yes to opportunities that feel right, be open to making changes when you need to, and always trust your gut. There will be highs and lows, and some days when you just don’t feel like showing up—but do it anyway. Those are the days that matter most, and you’ll be glad you pushed through.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://loveshack.yoga
• Instagram: @love,shack.yoga