‘Intentional Community’ Until Accountability Is Required”
I’ve been debating whether to post this, but honestly the handling of this situation feels really disappointing and worth discussing publicly.
Last month I attended the first #RochesterSoulConnection event. Tickets were around $35 for the evening, and one of the major advertised experiences was the sauna hosted by Stick and Stone Wellness.
Unfortunately, the sauna broke around 8PM, which meant anyone scheduled between 8–10PM lost access to a feature they specifically paid for. Things happen — equipment breaks, vendors run into issues, whatever. Most people were understanding.
Attendees who missed their sauna session were told they’d be “first on the list” for the next event.
Fast forward to now: the next event is two weeks away, multiple emails have gone unanswered, and instead of clarification/refunds/accountability, people received a mass email announcing that Yoga With Brett + Stick and Stone are separating from Rochester Soul Connection… immediately followed by promotion for an entirely different paid event.
No explanation for people who already purchased tickets. No clear information about refunds or credits. No direction for attendees with questions. No acknowledgment of the communication vacuum.
Just “community,” “healing,” “authenticity,” and a link to buy another $40 ticket elsewhere.
That disconnect is what feels gross to me.
You can’t build a brand around mindfulness, intentionality, authenticity, and “safe community spaces” while simultaneously avoiding direct communication with the very community supporting you financially.
This isn’t about a sauna breaking. It’s about accountability and professionalism.
Curious if anyone else from the event has had similar concerns or has received any actual information regarding refunds, credits, or future event plans.