#FollowSoak
Meet Karen Kearney – Founder of Soak
This week, we’re delighted to introduce Karen Kearney, the inspiring founder behind Soak, a wellness brand rooted in the healing power of the Atlantic. With a background in interior architecture and art direction, Karen’s journey into entrepreneurship was born from a deeply personal need for rest, renewal, and resilience. A devoted mother and wellness advocate, she transformed her own healing journey—moving west from Dublin to Sligo—into a mission to support others through self-care. Soak is more than a brand; it’s a movement for carers, for community, and for kindness. We’re so pleased to welcome Karen into the AwakenHub community!
Describe yourself in 6 words or less
Wellness advocate, positive outlook, always learning
Tell us about your business and what inspired you to start it:
As a single parent to a child with additional needs, I discovered the transformative power of self-care and the importance of finding moments of deep rest.
My son found healing in the Atlantic Ocean, especially through surfing. I noticed a profound improvement in his skin and, more importantly, his mental well-being—he was calmer, happier, and more content.
This experience sparked a desire to help others on their healing journey and to give back to local mental health charities that supported both my son and me.
Through our range of treatments and products, Soak aims to empower individuals to embrace self-care, find relaxation, and experience rejuvenation. Together, we can positively impact our own lives and those around us.
Tell us a little bit more about you:
I have a background in interior architecture, design, and art direction. When Covid hit, I was burnt out and struggling mentally while caring for my son. I made the brave decision to move west, pausing my career to focus on healing. The Atlantic became a lifeline—for both of us.
Soak was born from that journey: a way to support others while also healing myself. I wanted to bottle the goodness of the sea and grow a brand that truly cares for the carers.
Fill us in on your female founder journey:
My founder journey has been deeply rewarding but also incredibly tough. I launched Soak with no funding, no industry connections, and limited resources—just a laptop and a mission to help others, especially women.
To survive, I rented out my Dublin home to fund the business and even started growing herbs so I didn’t have to buy them. Bootstrapping in the luxury wellness and hotel space without financial backing has forced me to become resourceful, focused, and resilient (read: stubborn!).
It can feel lonely, especially after finishing the New Frontiers programme. I’ve had to learn everything from scratch—sales, logistics, finance, pitching—all while parenting and looking after my own wellbeing.
Being a female founder allows me to lead with empathy and kindness. I use my lived experience to create something meaningful. I’ve learned to back myself, trust the process, and keep going—even when the odds feel stacked against me.
How has being part of the AwakenHub community helped your business?
I’ve just recently joined and I’m really looking forward to building connections and engaging with the community.
Your 'Ask':
I’d love introductions to spa managers, hotel directors, and general managers.
As a founder, what are your non-negotiables? What values do you live by? Who or what inspires you?
I inspire myself. After surviving domestic violence and abuse, I’ve learned to keep going and stay positive.
My mantra: Look after yourself and trust the process—the right people will find you if you keep putting positivity into the world. Back yourself!
Where do you see yourself in 12 months and in 5 years?
12 months: Soak will have 2 employees and be stocked in 20+ hotels across Ireland, possibly with our first UK stockist.
5 years: A team of 10, with stockists across Ireland, the UK, Spain, and the UAE.
Top three tips for other women founders:
Trust your gut. Not all advice is good advice.
“No” is just redirection, not failure.
Strangers will be your biggest supporters—don’t rely solely on friends or family. Remember your why and look after yourself, because there’s only one of you.
Six words to live by:
Kindness starts with being kind to yourself.
Any comments or additional questions?
Thank you for the opportunity. I’m really looking forward to connecting with more AwakenHubbers!
Social Media Links & Handles
Website: https://www.soakbathsalts.com
Instagram: @soakinwellness
LinkedIn (Company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/soakinwellness
