Meet Monica Graham | Master Yoga Trainer

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

Hi Monica, how do you think about risk?
Taking risks is necessary for growth. If risks are not taken, the probability of reaching higher goals is limited. When I started my first business, I did not want to expand because I was comfortable and lived by the saying, “If it’s not broke, don’t fix it”. I was becoming unhappy because my business was not growing even though the community supported me. I was later forced out of the industry because my company was not keeping up with new industry standards. I finally took a big risk and moved to California and did not know one single person in the area I relocated to. Yes, it was extremely difficult in the beginning, but after I allowed myself to embrace the change, a new world of opportunities opened up. Taking that risk was the best decision for my career.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am a yoga trainer that takes pride in teaching correct form while giving an unforgettable experience that includes music that keeps people coming back. There are so many people that stay away from yoga because they simply have not been taught the fundamentals of the practice. My purpose is to change that while bringing awareness to the many benefits.

With a lot of practice, trainings and patience, I became very respected in the fitness industry. I have trained on almost every level of fitness to truly understand the benefits of all programs. It was in no way easy, but totally necessary to be able to help others.

There were many lessons I have learned throughout this journey but the biggest lesson was to ALWAYS be true to who I am and NEVER allow anyone to diminish my worth.

I want the world to truly know that DREAMS DO COME TRUE when you believe in YOU and stay grounded. I was born in St. Louis, MO with parents that never completed high school. We were poor and never traveled or took vacations. At 53, I’ve started multiple businesses in 3 states, have 3 degrees, and is a mentor to many!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
When my girls come to town, it’s all about the food and music. I rent a nice house with a pool so we can all be under one roof. It also makes things easier for our catered meals by Parties Galore and Chef David.

We hitting up Flavor Rich, Just Brunch, Toast on Lennox and City Winery for some LIVE music. I love to entertain so it would be a full weekend of shenanigans with some of my famous cake.

We would not drive, so I will get a Sprinter Van with a driver so we can really turnup and not be stressed driving in that traffic.

You can best believe I would hire musicians to entertain us while we are dancing and wilding out at the house.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would love to dedicate this shoutout to Black Peloton Riders. They have been a dynamic force in my relocation to Atlanta.

Website: https://www.mgyogaexperience.com

Instagram: @mlgraham62

Linkedin: Monica Graham

Facebook: monica.graham1

Youtube: @mlgraham62

Other: TikTok: MGDoesYoga

Image Credits
All images were taken by my husband, Alando Burnside