Debra Stangl, Founder and Owner, Sedona Soul Adventures

What would you say are the key factors behind the success of Sedona Soul Adventures?

I believe much of our success stems from the fact that no one else offers exactly what we do. Others may make similar claims, but our approach is truly unique—we facilitate profound, lasting transformation in people’s lives and relationships.

While there are many wonderful teachers offering classes and workshops, my experience—spanning over four decades—has shown me that the greatest obstacles holding people back are often rooted in unresolved core wounds, fears, limiting beliefs, and traumas. I affectionately refer to this as “the gunk.” Beneath the surface, there’s a deep need for healing, and that can’t be addressed by simply reading a book or sitting in a large seminar. True transformation requires a more intimate, focused approach.

Earlier in my career, I spent 20 years practicing as a divorce attorney. I saw a pattern emerge: many clients would return for their second or third divorce, often repeating the same relationship dynamics with different partners. It became clear that they weren’t addressing the deeper issues driving those patterns. I believe life continually presents us with opportunities for healing, especially through conflict or challenges within relationships. When those arise, it’s often a signal that something within us needs to be addressed.

Our retreats are designed to help individuals and couples uncover and heal those core wounds. Everyone carries them—the key is understanding how they manifest in your life and relationships. We believe that without addressing this “gunk,” it will continue to resurface, limiting personal fulfillment and relationship success. Our custom-designed, private retreats offer the environment and expertise to finally heal and move forward.

What are your primary services, and how do they differentiate you in the market?

We specialize in private, custom-designed retreats for individuals and couples. Unlike traditional retreats that focus on group experiences, our work is entirely one-on-one or two-on-one for couples. I collaborate with over 50 highly skilled practitioners in Sedona, offering more than 200 healing modalities—ranging from energy work, breathwork, and yoga to meditation, EMDR, tapping, and radiant heart healing, among others.

Before a client arrives, we conduct an in-depth consultation to understand their unique challenges and aspirations. Based on this, we design a tailored retreat experience that addresses their specific needs.

Many people associate retreats with scenic locations, yoga classes, and green juice—which can certainly be rejuvenating—but what we offer goes far beyond that. Our programs are designed to be truly life-changing. We help people not only heal from the past but actively create the life and relationships they desire.

How would you describe Sedona Soul Adventures’ growth trajectory? Are there new services or innovations on the horizon?

Our growth has been organic yet consistent, fueled by both demand and our desire to deepen the impact we offer. Over time, many clients expressed the need for continued support after their retreats, which led us to expand our services.

We’re excited to be launching our new Transformation Maintenance Program, a one-year initiative for clients who have completed a retreat with us. It provides ongoing coaching and connection to our practitioner network, helping individuals sustain and deepen their personal transformation.

Additionally, we’ve developed certification programs to empower others to guide transformational work. Many people feel called to a higher purpose but are unsure how to transition into that space. I understand that journey firsthand—I was a divorce attorney who felt unfulfilled, unsure how to make a change. Today, we help others make that leap. We’ve been certifying Transformational Soul Coaches for three years using a methodology I developed over 25 years ago, which blends life coaching with intuition and energy work. We also offer certification in breathwork, which I consider one of the most powerful healing modalities available.

Another area I’m passionate about is sacred travel. For years, I’ve led group journeys to spiritually significant destinations like Egypt, Peru, Bali, and Costa Rica. Looking ahead, I’ll be offering private VIP sacred travel experiences for individuals and couples who seek more personalized, transformative adventures.

How does Sedona Soul Adventures attract new clients and cultivate long-term relationships?

Our business is built on relationships and reputation. Many of our clients come to us through referrals, which speaks volumes about the impact of our work. That said, we are highly intentional about ensuring that we’re the right fit for each client.

We are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Some individuals prefer a more conventional therapeutic approach, which we fully respect. Our clients are those ready for a deeper, more holistic journey of healing and transformation. Many have shared that they experienced more progress with us in one week than in five years of traditional therapy.

We have a rigorous intake process, focusing not on volume, but on alignment. We also maintain high standards for our practitioner network, selecting individuals not only for their expertise but for their integrity and commitment to this work. They are true partners in delivering transformational experiences.

What message would you most like Newsweek readers to take away about Sedona Soul Adventures?

I want people to know that real, lasting change is possible—but it requires the courage to face and heal the fears, traumas, and limiting beliefs that hold us back. Once you do that deep work, life opens up in ways you never imagined. Fulfilling relationships, inner peace, and purposeful living become possible.

Would you like to elaborate on how your retreats—whether in-person or virtual—differ from more conventional wellness experiences?

Absolutely. We offer both in-person retreats in Sedona and virtual retreats via Zoom. Energy knows no boundaries—the transformational work we do is equally effective whether conducted face-to-face or through a video call. That said, many choose to visit Sedona, drawn to the incredible natural beauty and energy of this place.

I also want to reiterate that when people hear the word “retreat,” they often envision relaxation, yoga, and wellness activities—which we incorporate—but our retreats are designed for deep, accelerated transformation. What took me over 20 years to achieve, we help people unlock in just three to five days. It’s truly remarkable, and I feel privileged to guide people on that journey every day.