ego, surrender, and adaptability in today’s wellness world with stephanie richardson
Stephanie is the Founder and an Instructor at Activate House, a fitness and wellness studio based in San Diego, California. Originally from San Diego, she has always been passionate about health, wellness, and building supportive communities. With over 10 years of experience teaching fitness, she has worked with instructors across the USA, Mexico, and Australia. Living and teaching in Australia provided her with unique insights and inspirations from different fitness cultures.
Her journey led her to create Activate House—a space designed for connection, growth, and transformation through fitness and wellness. Activate House is a manifestation of her dedication to fostering holistic well-being and supportive communities. The studio offers a variety of classes and workshops to empower members to reach their personal best in a nurturing environment.
What current projects are you working on?
We are expanding our class offerings and introducing new wellness workshops. A major focus right now is our upcoming retreat in Menorca, where attendees will have the opportunity to deepen their wellness practices in a breathtaking setting. We’re also exploring collaborations with local businesses to create more integrated wellness experiences for our community.
Who is currently inspiring you with their wild and wise approach to life?
I’m deeply inspired by my parents and fellow entrepreneurs. As a first-generation American, I’ve seen firsthand the sacrifices my parents made to build a life here. My father, in particular, is the hardest-working person I know, and I credit my discipline to him.
Beyond my family, I am lucky to have a strong network of female entrepreneurs who are pioneers in their respective industries. Their courage, vulnerability, and empathy resonate with me and reflect the values we strive to embody at Activate House. I truly believe that who you surround yourself with says a lot about who you are at your core, and I’m grateful to be surrounded by strong, empowering women.
How do you personally define a curated life?
A curated life is about being intentional—choosing what (and who) we allow into our lives. It means making conscious decisions that align with our values, passions, and overall well-being. For me, it’s about creating a life that feels both fulfilling and purposeful rather than one dictated by external expectations.
What are your current aspirations and vision for the future, considering both your wild creative ideas and the wisdom you’ve gained?
My vision is to expand the impact of Activate House, both locally and globally. I want to create more retreats, workshops, and community-driven events that foster connection and personal growth. Beyond the studio, I want to help shift the wellness industry towards inclusivity—making it more accessible to everyone.
What daily practices or habits help you stay connected to your wild and wise self?
I’d love to say I have a strict daily routine, but as an entrepreneur, my days are constantly evolving. However, when I am disciplined, some of the practices that keep me grounded include:
Morning meditation – A quick 5-minute meditation on Spotify helps me reset.
Regular movement – I’m a better person after a good sweat session.
Music – I love all kinds of music and always have it playing while working, at home, or in the studio.
Nature & travel – You can catch me at the beach, on a hike, or planning my next adventure.
These habits help me stay balanced and in tune with my creative energy.
How has your community or network influenced your current projects and ideas?
My community is the heart of Activate House. Their feedback, energy, and participation fuel everything we do. Engaging with members and collaborating with local businesses ensures that our offerings align with what people truly need and want. Community isn’t just something we build—it’s something we grow alongside.
What advice would you give to aspiring visionaries?
Stay true to your vision and values, even when the path gets challenging. Surround yourself with a strong support system, and don’t be afraid to take risks or make mistakes. Vulnerability is a strength—embrace it. Every challenge is an opportunity to learn, grow, and refine your vision.
What impact do you hope your current work will have on the world?
I hope Activate House inspires people to prioritize their well-being and embrace community as a source of strength. My goal is to create a space where people feel empowered, supported, and connected—to themselves and each other. Ultimately, I want to help people realize their potential and lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.