In the late 90’s, Monica found water aerobics and followed periodicals from Craig Stuart of HydroFit, who would later become her mentor. Continuing her education, she sought certifications from AEA, AFAA, the Arthritis Foundation, and Enhance Fitness.
Married for 43 years to Brett, they spent their early years living in various places due to his military career. These moves allowed her to bring her teaching skills to varied facilities, YMCA’s, military installations, and private clubs. Holding several positions, including fitness instructor, swim instructor, personal trainer, lifeguard, lifeguard instructor trainer, and aquatics director.
In 2001, Monica was invited to join the HydroFit sales team and travel to various training sites. In 2008, she, along with Margie Caldwell Cooper and Craig Stuart, formed the Rancho La Puerta HydroFit team. The position has evolved over the years, but Monica’s love of the work and Ranch staff have not changed. Her teaching style and love of music combine for fun and fitness in all her water and land classes.
Dr. Philippe R. Montgrain, MD, is a Professor of Pulmonary, Critical Care, Sleep Medicine, and Physiology at UC San Diego and the VA San Diego Healthcare System. Throughout his career, he has cared for patients with a wide range of respiratory and sleep disorders while leading research and educational initiatives that advance the science of sleep and lung health. At Rancho La Puerta, Dr. Montgrain invites guests to explore how sleep influences nearly every aspect of health—from energy and mood to resilience and relationships. Through practical, evidence-based strategies, he helps guests better understand common sleep challenges, healthy sleep habits, and how partners can support one another in creating more restorative nights. Dr. Montgrain has received numerous honors for his contributions to medicine, education, and community service. He believes that better sleep is one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves and the people we love.
Jennifer Gunsaullus, PhD, is a sociologist, relationship coach, international speaker, retreat facilitator, author, and the Founder of The Center for Courageous Intimacy. She specializes in effective communication, emotional awareness, vulnerability, meaningful human connection, mindful intimacy, and sexual passion. Dr. Jenn has presented two TEDx Talks, co-hosted a popular podcast, garnered more than 1.8 million views on her YouTube educational series, and is the author of From Madness to Mindfulness: Reinventing Sex for Women. With over three decades of speaking and facilitation experience, she has positively impacted hundreds of thousands of people worldwide with her powerful insights and practical tools. Dr. Jenn has partnered on projects with organizations ranging from the Global YPO Spouse/Partner Network to Planned Parenthood and was the technical editor for Dr. Ruth’s Sex for Dummies 4th Edition. Her thought leadership has been featured in outlets such as Forbes, CNBC, USA Today, The Washington Post, Cosmopolitan, The Sunday Times (London), Oprah Daily, Men’s Health, Women’s Health, and Playboy. She has delivered talks for more than 40 chapters of YPO, a prestigious global leadership community of chief executives, across the U.S. and Europe, and is also a YPO Certified Forum Facilitator. More information: 
Dr. Basma Faris is a Board Certified Obstetrician and Gynecologist and Certified Culinary Medicine Specialist who is dedicated to helping women find balance and vitality through the powerful connection between nutrition and health. Her journey in wellness began at the University of California at Berkeley, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nutrition Sciences, followed by a Master’s of Science in Nutrition and a Registered Dietetics Internship at Brooklyn College. After receiving her medical degree from the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences in 2009, she completed her residency at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, where she refined her expertise in women’s well-being. With a distinguished background as a Registered Dietitian, Dr. Faris finds joy in educating others on how to integrate nourishing practices into daily life. Her work lives at the heart of connection—bridging the science of gynecology with the art of culinary medicine to support patients through the complexities of hormonal health and midlife. As the owner of a specialized telehealth practice and co-host of the annual Love & Nourish retreat in Morocco, she creates dedicated spaces for women to reconnect with themselves and their health in meaningful, evidence-based ways. Currently, Dr. Faris serves as an Assistant Professor in Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Science within the Mount Sinai Health System in New York. Her role as a laborist allows her to support women during some of their most transformative moments of connection. A Fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dr. Faris also shares her expertise on the Advisory Boards of the American College of Culinary Medicine and the PCOS Awareness Association. She is honored to join the Rancho La Puerta community for “The Joy of Being Connected,” where she looks forward to exploring the pathways to holistic well-being and nourished relationships with you.
Born and raised in the humble embrace of San Antonio de Padua, a pueblo in the heart of Zacatecas Mexico, Carlos Prieto De-Leon’s journey reflects a lifelong ambition to activate individuals in protecting our planet. He found his calling at the intersection of environmental protection and social equity, recognizing that the two are intrinsically linked. His passion for championing the environment led him to Greenpeace USA, where he has served 10 years as a dedicated staff member, channeling his energy into connecting influential donors with the organization’s impactful initiatives. Within Greenpeace USA, Carlos plays a pivotal role in showcasing the tangible impact of environmental activism and forging meaningful relationships with key stakeholders and donors. Through his efforts, he ensures that the vital work of protecting our planet receives the support it deserves. Outside of his professional endeavors, Carlos loves hiking the majestic redwoods and finding solace listening to the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean, near his home in Santa Cruz, California.
Brian Turk, aka Coach Turk, is a California credentialed teacher, youth sports coach, and lifelong educator who loves bringing people together. He has spent his career teaching students of all ages, helping them build confidence, discover new passions, and enjoy learning. Whether he’s leading a game, emceeing an event, or behind a microphone, Coach Turk has a gift for engaging a crowd and making everyone feel welcome.
Gary “Dhyanjot” Grenus aka ‘DJ’
Violinist Kate Hatmaker is the founder and Executive/Artistic Director of Art of Élan, a San Diego-based chamber music organization committed to bringing innovative classical music to diverse audiences (www.artofelan.org), and has been a violinist with the San Diego Symphony since 2006. She has played with a wide variety of American orchestras, including the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and the New World Symphony. She completed her Master of Music degree at Carnegie Mellon University and her undergraduate training at both the University of Iowa and the Sorbonne University in Paris, France. 
Born in New York, cellist Alex Greenbaum enjoys a diverse and adventurous musical life. As a member of the Hausmann Quartet, he is an Artist-in-Residence and Lecturer at San Diego State University, where he teaches cello and chamber music. A long-time member of The Knights chamber orchestra, he has toured with the group throughout the U.S. and Europe, with performances at Carnegie Hall and at the festivals of Ravinia and Tanglewood to Aix-en-Provence, Vienna and the Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg. He has recorded for Ancalagon, Arc, Bridge, Canary Classics, Cantaloupe, In a Circle, Koch, Mack Avenue Records, Naxos, Phenotypic, Warner Classics and Sony records, including two GRAMMY nominations. Equally at home on baroque cello, Alex is a founding member of San Diego Baroque, a member of Bach Collegium San Diego and has appeared at the festivals of Carmel and Corona Del Mar. He is a mainstay on Art of Élan’s concert series and Co-Director of Chamber Music at the Athenaeum Music & Arts Library in La Jolla. He lives in San Diego (but remains a Yankees and Knicks fan).
Lara Downes is an acclaimed American pianist, producer, curator, and cultural advocate known for bringing overlooked stories and voices to life through music. Named 2022 Classical Woman of the Year by Performance Today, she has been praised for her imaginative programming and commitment to expanding the classical music landscape. A Billboard chart-topping recording artist, Downes has appeared with leading orchestras and at major venues and festivals across the United States. Her performances explore themes of history, identity, belonging, and the diverse cultural influences that shape the American experience.
Theo Bleckmann is a two-time Grammy®-nominated vocalist and composer known for his adventurous blend of jazz, contemporary music, improvisation, and vocal experimentation. Described by The New York Times as sounding “from another planet,” he has collaborated with artists ranging from Meredith Monk and Laurie Anderson to leading jazz ensembles and orchestras worldwide. Bleckmann’s performances combine expressive singing, electronics, and inventive soundscapes that expand the possibilities of the human voice.
Chef Kelston Moore is one of the most compelling culinary figures working in America today, a Barbados-born, U.S. Navy-trained, Food Network-featured chef whose cuisine is as much autobiography as it is artistry. Known for cooking with intention, soul, and precision, Chef Kelston transforms every dining experience into a narrative rooted in Caribbean heritage and refined California technique, now serving an exclusive private clientele of C-suite executives aboard luxury yachts and at private estates.
Dr. Beth Atlas DC, MS, CNS, is a board-certified chiropractor and clinical nutritionist. She has a doctorate in chiropractic, a Master of Science in clinical nutrition, and a Certified Nutrition Specialist®. She has more than 34 years’ experience in private practice and 25 years teaching at the University of Bridgeport in the School of Health Science.
With over 30 years of experience as an artist, art teacher, and energy healer, Mindy Green brings a warm, intuitive approach to creative exploration. She delights in helping students connect with their inner artist, build confidence, and enjoy the process of making art. By meeting each participant where they are, she creates a welcoming space where creativity can flourish and joyful discoveries can unfold.
David Wellis, Ph.D., is a renowned cell biologist, innovator, and entrepreneur with over 30 years in the life science industry. He currently serves as CEO of FreMon Scientific, advancing precision thawing technologies for improved clinical outcomes. Previously, he was co-founder and CEO of Excellos and led the San Diego Blood Bank, connecting donors with research and clinical opportunities. Dr. Wellis has held leadership roles in antibody and biomedical research, trained at UC Irvine, Emory, Tufts, and UC Berkeley, and contributes to national health and biotech organizations. Recognized as one of San Diego’s Most Influential People, he’s also a frequent speaker at major scientific and leadership forums, including the Young Presidents Organization and the White House.
Pei-Chun Tsai from Tainan, Taiwan, winner of the Taiwan National Violin Competition, made her debut at the Weill Recital Hall in Manhattan, and has enjoyed summers at the Alfred, Encore, Yellow Barn, and Taos festivals as well as the International Holland Music Sessions. Joseph Fuchs, Daniel Phillips, and Harvey Shapiro have been her teachers and mentors in the United States. Pei-Chun holds a Doctorate in Musical Arts degree from City University of New York, with Bachelor and Master’s degrees from The Juilliard School. She performs on a violin by Boston luthier Charline Dequincy, and a bow made by Abe Liebhaber in San Diego. She is the founding director of the Campanile Music Festival at San Diego State University and has been a member of the San Diego Symphony since 2005 in addition to being violin lecturer at SDSU. She released an album of solo violin works entitled “Chaconne” in 2021 highlighting Baroque and contemporary masterpieces of this form.
After a successful career as a graphic designer and illustrator, Marjorie Taylor returned to her first love—painting—and embarked on a fine art career in oils. Her plein air painting adventures and exhibition opportunities have taken her throughout North America, Central America, Europe, Asia Minor, and North Africa. Her work has been exhibited and collected both nationally and internationally. An experienced educator, she has taught painting, drawing, and a variety of art classes for children and adults in San Diego and Mexico. In recent years, she has expanded her artistic practice beyond oil painting to include watercolor, acrylic, and printmaking, while continuing her work as a writer.
Juan Pablo Andrade, a prominent Costa Rican pianist, enjoys a dynamic presence both on stage and in the academic realm. Recognized with several prestigious awards, including the Costa Rican National Prize of Music— the highest honor bestowed upon a musician by the Costa Rican Ministry of Culture. He has also received top honors at international competitions like the Artlivre International Piano Competition in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and the Carlos Enrique Vargas National Piano Competition in Costa Rica. With a performance schedule that spans several continents, Andrade has played as a soloist with various orchestras. He is also a familiar face with the Costa Rican National Symphony. His recital tours have taken him through the Americas and Europe, with standout performances at the Yehudi Menuhin Forum in Bern, Switzerland, the World Piano Conference in Novi Sad, Serbia, and a solo recital tour in South America. His CD “War to Peace” with violinist Betul Soykan, has been warmly received by critics, including a notable review in Fanfare magazine. In the academic realm, Andrade serves as a Professor of Piano at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, where he brings his rich performance experiences into the classroom. His commitment to music education extends beyond his university role, frequently serving as a guest faculty at international festivals and founding the La Frontera International Piano Conference in Brownsville, Texas. This event underscores his passion for enriching the cultural tapestry of the region and providing platforms for musical exchange.
Linda Chávez is a distinguished Mexican-American pianist. She holds degrees from the University of Texas at Brownsville and Longy School of Music in Cambridge, Massachusetts. A laureate of an impressive array of awards, grants, and scholarships, Miss Chávez has crafted a career that epitomizes excellence in both performance and education. Her talents have garnered her coveted invitations to international festivals as diverse as Costa Rica, Italy, Aruba, Austria, Puerto Rico, and Lincoln Center in New York City. Currently, Ms. Chávez is the principal pianist for the Valley Symphony Orchestra. Additionally, she is the visionary founder and enthusiastic proprietor of the Brownsville Piano Studio, South Texas’ premiere institution dedicated to piano education. Under her guidance, the studio provides instruction to over 225 students each week. Her entrepreneurial spirit also led to the creation of Ananda Music Experience, an innovative online music program tailored for adult women who aspire to learn music in a mindful and enriching environment. Linda Chávez continues to inspire and make a profound impact in the world of music; fostering positive change through music is a hallmark of her distinguished career.
Martha Aarons’
Lev Polyakin
Cellist Joanna Morrison