Shaun Naughton is a lifelong entrepreneur, movement expert, wellness coach, and co-founder of the performance lifestyle brand Soulside (@gosoulside). Shaun is known for catalyzing transformational growth experiences with and for his clients.
Shaun’s diverse training includes literally hundreds of teachers who have contributed their value to his development. The following pages honor those who have most significantly shaped his path.
Professional Certifications & Credentials
Shaun is highly trained and credentialed in health, movement, and coaching sciences, with a diverse set of certifications from top-tier institutions:
- Yoga Alliance – RYT 500hr Registered Yoga Teacher
- National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) – An industry leader in evidence-based fitness education:
- Certified Personal Trainer (CPT)
- Corrective Exercise Specialist (CES)
- Performance Enhancement Specialist (PES)
- Martial Arts Conditioning Specialist
- American Council on Exercise (ACE) – Certified Personal Trainer (CPT)
- AFAA – Aerobics & Fitness Association of America CPT
- USAT – USA Triathlon Coach
- Vedic Bodywork Association – Thai Massage / Myofascial Release
Advanced Education & Training
Shaun’s commitment to lifelong learning and peak performance is reflected in his wide-ranging studies and mentorships:
- The American Academy of Dramatic Arts – West (1988–91)
While the acting component was deeply enriching, Shaun thrived on the Academy’s physically demanding curriculum, including voice, movement, dance, and stage combat. This highly technical training developed his understanding of embodiment and character construction through physicality, discipline, and presence. - Budokon Yoga & Mobility – Rigorous and unique performance conditioning training with friends and founders Cameron and Melayne Shane
- Olympic Training Center, San Diego – Advanced metabolic and performance training with Bob Seebohar, renowned sports dietitian and Olympic coach
- Running Biomechanics Training – Through USA Triathlon Association, with a focus on efficient form, injury prevention, and performance
- Cycle & Swim Biomechanics – Advanced form and technique refinement for endurance performance
- Advanced Performance Nutrition & Recovery – Integrating sports science, supplementation, and personalized strategies for longevity and peak output
- Landmark Education – Completion of the Forum, Wisdom Program, and Advanced Leadership Course
- The Human Awareness Institute – Immersive training in emotional intelligence and interpersonal connection
Holistic & Breathwork Practices
Shaun integrates mind-body connection and inner work into his coaching philosophy. He has explored and practiced:
- Wim Hof Method – Breathwork and cold exposure for nervous system regulation and resilience
- Shamanic Breathwork – Exploratory practices in expanded states of consciousness and integrative healing
Key Influences & Teachers
Shaun’s inner circle includes a diverse array of mentors, colleagues, and idols who have played pivotal roles in shaping his path. Some of the most notable figures include:
- Kelly Starrett (Mobility and Performance)
- Gunnar Peterson (Elite Strength Training and Conditioning)
- Grandmaster Tony Somera (Giron Arnis Escrima)
- Sean Phelps (Yoga & Movement)
- Bridgett McCarthy (Ballet and Dance Instruction)
- Sifu Donald & Cheryl Lynn Rubbo (Tai Chi & Shaolin)
- Master Kim (Taekwondo)
- The Fairtex Academy Trainers (Martial Arts)
- Cameron & Melayne Shane (Founders of Budokon)
- Ira & Val at the Zen Den (Sivananda Yoga)
- Bryan Kest (Power Yoga)
- Rusty Wells (Yoga Medicine)
- Thomas Sanchez (First formative Jeet Kune Do instruction at age 14)
- Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, Jet Li, Chuck Norris, and others (Martial Arts & Cinema)
These mentors, colleagues, and inflences have contributed to Shaun’s wealth of knowledge, particularly in martial arts, movement science, personal development, and leadership.
To find out more about Shaun visit the testimonials page here:
