Julie Stevens grew up in Southern California and moved to the San Francisco Bay Area at 13 to live with her two moms during a time of profound social change, marked by the Civil Rights, Women’s Rights, and LGBTQ movements. Amidst this vibrant atmosphere, Julie struggled with her identity and turned to drugs and alcohol to cope with early family turbulence. However, her community, including her moms, grandmother, and mentors, played a crucial role in helping her find confidence and purpose. 

Her mother’s advice, “If this isn’t working for you, then create your own reality,” inspired Julie to build a community centered on equity, diversity, and inclusion.

With a background in hospitality and entrepreneurship, Julie studied various healing modalities, realizing that sharing these gifts was part of her mission. In 2015, she founded The Urban Retreat Center (URC) to offer a space where ancient earth-based practices are accessible to those seeking healing and connection. The URC embodies her vision, providing a sanctuary where diversity, equity, inclusion, and community thrive alongside events, rituals, and retreats. 

By hosting teachers from diverse traditions, the URC continues to be a beacon of light, knowledge, and healing for all who seek personal growth and transformation.

In This Episode

• The Urban Retreat Center (URC)
• Julie's email: juliestevens@urbanretreatcenteroakland.com
• IG: @therealjuliestevens

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