Meet Shauna Hylenski
Co-Founder of Climbing Collective & Shri School of Yoga

Shoutout Colorado | January 24, 2025

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

Hi Shauna, how do you think about risk?
For me, risk has always been intertwined with growth and adventure. My passion for dance and performance in my early years taught me to embrace the thrill of stepping into the unknown. The moments right before going on stage—when nervous fear mixed with excitement—were electrifying and fueled my love for dance.

In my mid-20s, my husband and I decided to take a bold leap and move abroad to teach English. We chose Japan, sold everything we owned, rented out our home, and set off on an adventure filled with unknowns. That decision reaffirmed my belief that risk is what makes life truly vibrant and fulfilling.

This perspective has shaped every chapter of my life. From opening my own yoga studio to founding a climbing gym and eventually growing it into multiple locations, I’ve realized that living a quiet, small life was never my destiny. Taking big, bold steps into the unknown has not only defined my career but also brought purpose and joy to my journey.

For me, risk-taking isn’t just about embracing uncertainty—it’s about leaning into it with intention, knowing that the rewards of growth, resilience, and adventure are always worth it.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My career has been an eclectic and adventurous journey, shaped by a passion for movement, creativity, and community building. It began with my love for dance, a discipline that taught me resilience, dedication, and the thrill of performance. After years of training and teaching, my path took an exciting turn when my husband and I moved abroad to teach English in Japan and South Korea. Living as expats was a transformative experience—it fueled my sense of adventure, adaptability, and openness to new cultures and ways of life.

My entrepreneurial spirit blossomed as we started small, selling Thai pants and sarongs from the back of our van. From there, we began managing home rentals, opened a stand-alone yoga studio, and eventually co-founded the Climbing Collective—a venture that has grown to include three locations.

What sets me apart professionally is my ability to blend creativity, risk-taking, and community building into everything I do. I’m deeply proud of the youth climbing programs we’ve developed at the Climbing Collective, where we inspire young climbers to embrace growth, teamwork, and confidence. Similarly, the Shri School of Yoga, our yoga teacher training program, reflects my commitment to helping others connect deeply with themselves and their communities.

The journey hasn’t been easy—it’s been filled with challenges, from navigating the unknowns of starting businesses to balancing family life with professional growth. But I’ve learned that persistence, adaptability, and an unwavering belief in your vision can overcome even the biggest obstacles.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that it’s built on heart, passion, and the belief that adventure and community go hand in hand. Whether it’s through climbing, yoga, or any of my other ventures, my goal has always been to empower others to embrace their potential and live boldly.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting Longmont for a week, I’d make sure they got the full experience of this vibrant, welcoming town. Here’s a little itinerary of what we’d do to make it unforgettable:

Start with a casual dinner at Summit Tacos. Their street tacos and margaritas are the perfect introduction to Longmont’s laid-back vibe.
Walk off dinner with a stroll down Main Street, soaking in the charm of downtown.

Breakfast at Lucile’s Creole Cafe for the best beignets and southern-style breakfast.
Spend the day exploring nature at Union Reservoir—rent kayaks or paddleboards if it’s sunny.
Dinner at The Pumphouse, a Longmont institution. We’d enjoy great food and my favorite cocktail, the Hendricks Cooler.

Morning climb at The Climbing Collective (of course!). We’d hit the walls and challenge ourselves rope climbing and bouldering.
Lunch at the Parkway Food Hall to sample a variety of local flavors.
Evening at Left Hand Brewery or Wibby’s Brewing for live music, tasty drinks, and a laid-back atmosphere.

Head to Rabbit Mountain for a scenic hike with gorgeous views.
Dinner at Caprese Trattoria for authentic Italian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.

Morning yoga at the Climbing Collective followed by brunch at our home Hollow Farms with farm fresh chicken and duck eggs.
Spend the afternoon at Local Drive for screen golf, pool, and a fun, casual hangout.
Wrap up the day with tacos and tequila at Jefe’s.

Longmont is packed with great food, fun activities, and welcoming spots.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely, my shoutout goes to my husband, Bryan. Every success I’ve experienced is deeply rooted in our partnership. Together, we’ve made bold, risky, and adventurous decisions that have shaped the life we share today. From co-managing the Climbing Collective and building our small hobby farm, Hollow Farms, to raising our daughter, Bryan has been my constant source of support, encouragement, and collaboration.

Our journey has been anything but ordinary, and I know each adventure is made truly magical because of the love, trust, and teamwork we share. Bryan’s unwavering belief in our vision and his dedication to everything we do together deserves all the recognition. Every step of my story has been enriched by his presence, and I’m so grateful to walk this path with him.

Website: https://www.climbingcollective.co

Instagram: @longmontclimbs / @shrischoolofyoga

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/longmontclimbingcollective / https://www.facebook.com/shrischoolofyoga

Image Credits
Photography by Jitka

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