The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
311: A Small Seed of Personal Practice with Shannon Crow
Description:
Your personal yoga practice doesn’t have to be long and complicated. It can be short and simple. You can start with a small seed and grow your personal practice from there. The important part is taking the time daily to do something that feels helpful and nurturing to you.
In this episode, Shannon Crow invites you to take a few minutes to do this short personal practice with her. If you have been wanting to start a short personal yoga routine but feel overwhelmed or like you don’t have time, this episode is for you.
Key Takeaways:
[2:19] Shannon introduces her topic for this episode - planting the first seeds of a personal practice.
[5:56] Shannon thanks the sponsors of the podcast, OfferingTree and Pelvic Health Professionals.
[9:03] Are you doing something daily that feels helpful and nurturing just for you?
[10:22] Shannon invites you to find a comfortable spot to start your personal practice right now.
[11:24] Check in with yourself to see what you need in this moment.
[12:05] Shannon shares the poem The Cleverness of Seeds, by Pat Brisson.
[14:11] Shannon reads an email she received from the author of the poem, Pat Brisson.
[15:50] This is an example of a very short personal practice.
[16:45] Shannon has some resources that might be helpful as you explore building your own personal practice.
[17:44] Do you have a short personal practice? Share it with Shannon!
Links:
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 308: Time to Rest and Refuel with Shannon Crow
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 309: Four Seasons of Business with Shannon Crow
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 310: How To Create a Yoga Routine with Shannon Crow
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 030: Rituals to Start and End Your Day with Puja Madan
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 096: How to Create a Yoga Practice Habit with Matt Kowald
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 114: Compassion Fatigue with Diane Liska
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 123: Habits for Health & Business with James Clear
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 164: Deepen Your Yoga Practice with Barrie Risman
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 274: Self-Care for Caregivers with Jo Bregnard -
Gratitude to our Sponsors, OfferingTree and Pelvic Health Professionals.
Quotes from this episode:
"Are you doing something daily that feels helpful and nurturing just for you?"
"Check in and see: What do I need in this moment?"
“Sometimes we're starting with something that's way too complicated when we're trying to add in a personal practice. So I hope this illustrates how short it can be, how simple it can be.”
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
310: How To Create a Yoga Routine with Shannon Crow
Description:
Many yoga teachers started teaching yoga because they experienced the benefits of it for themselves and wanted to share it with others. However, once they start teaching and dive into running a yoga business, it can feel challenging to maintain a consistent personal yoga practice.
In this episode, Shannon Crow explores the reasons yoga teachers often give for not creating a self-care practice that feels nurturing to them, and what the benefits are of cultivating that personal practice. She shares her tips and strategies that have helped her form habits around her personal yoga routine and explains why falling away from our practice is normal - and how to get back to it. If you have been wanting to start a yoga routine for yourself, this episode is for you.
Key Takeaways:
[1:41] Shannon introduces her topic for this episode - how to create and maintain a personal yoga practice.
[3:17] Shannon gives a shout out to sponsors, OfferingTree and Pelvic Health Professionals.
[4:40] What is holding you back from creating a self-care practice that is nurturing for you?
[6:22] You are not alone if you have fallen away from your personal yoga practice.
[9:15] Why is having a personal practice so important?
[10:34] Shannon invites you to consider the intention of your personal practice as well as what your dream personal practice looks like.
[12:03] If creating a personal practice feels impossible to you right now, Shannon encourages you to dig into why that is.
[12:33] You don't need to choose movement as a part of your personal practice if it doesn't feel good to you.
[14:28] You can try out your chosen practice for a set amount of time to see how it feels to you.
[16:29] Shannon pops in to share how she is personally using OfferingTree to book podcast guests.
[18:18] Why is creating a routine around our personal practice so important?
[20:01] Shannon shares some tips and strategies to make it easier to start and maintain a habit.
[23:34] How can we get back to our personal practice when life throws us off track?
[27:06] How do you build a personal practice and stick to it? What are your tips and ideas? Share them!
[27:56] Shannon shares ways that you can connect with her in real time.
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors, OfferingTree and Pelvic Health Professionals.
Quotes from this episode:
"What is holding you back from creating a self care practice that is nurturing for you?"
"Your personal practice is an amazing source of fuel for your life and business. It's like a promise that you make to yourself."
"Don't wait for the someday of it. Build your ideal personal practice and you'll slowly see that your ideal schedule will also build out of that."
"Similarity and routine really brings us comfort as humans and it really helps us to build it into being a habit."
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
309: Four Seasons of Business with Shannon Crow
Description:
Just like in nature, we go through different seasons in our business and in life. Each season is characterized by different rhythms and needs, and no one season lasts forever. How can we embrace these changing seasons and get the most out of each season instead of fighting it?
In this episode, Shannon Crow shares more about the four different seasons you may encounter in your business. She explains what you may be feeling in winter, spring, summer, and fall/autumn, as well as how you can adapt your business activities to match the seasons. Shannon also reminds us that your season in business may be impacted by things outside your control and that other people may be in different seasons from you. Tune in to find out how to work with the seasons and find balance in your business.
Key Takeaways:
[2:18] Shannon introduces her topic for this episode - the four seasons of business.
[2:29] Shannon gives a shout out to sponsors, OfferingTree and Pelvic Health Professionals.
[5:34] What season of life or business are you in now? This may not align with the seasons of nature or the seasons of the people around you, and may be impacted by things outside your control.
[8:09] As there are four seasons in nature, there are also four seasons in business.
[8:23] Shannon outlines some of the things that you might experience in a winter season of your business.
[11:54] Avoid looking at other people who may be in a different season in their business and comparing yourself to them.
[13:42] What can a spring season bring for your business?
[16:28] Shannon shares how she is using OfferingTree in her business.
[18:13] Summer is the season of growth and thriving in your business.
[22:22] Fall is the season of harvest. It is also a time to clean up and get ready for the next growing season.
[24:41] Fall is also a great time to save up.
[26:01] What have you noticed about the seasons of business or life that you're experiencing or have experienced?
[27:35] Connect with Shannon in real time in the Pelvic Health Professionals membership site.
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors, OfferingTree and Pelvic Health Professionals.
Quotes from this episode:
"Seasons always change and there's a way to embrace it and get the most out of it instead of fighting against it."
"Winter is an amazing time to evaluate what's working, to check in on what's draining you, and let go of what is no longer a good fit."
"[Spring] is all about possibility and potential new growth."
"Fall is also a great time to save up."
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
308: Time to Rest and Refuel with Shannon Crow
Description:
As yoga teachers, we all know that we cannot pour from an empty cup. We cannot give to others or connect with others, nor do our most creative and meaningful work when we're feeling exhausted, drained, and depleted. That’s why it’s important to take time to rest and refuel when things feel tough and overwhelming.
In this episode, Shannon Crow shares some of her strategies for finding time to rest and recharge every day and why rest is so important for us. However, rest isn’t just about sleeping and there are different kinds of rest we need. Shannon invites you to consider: What would it look like for you today if rest and refuel time was your top priority?
Key Takeaways:
[1:16] Shannon introduces the topic for this episode - taking time to rest and refuel.
[1:41] Shannon shares an update from sponsor, OfferingTree.
[4:32] What can you do in this moment that would bring you ease and comfort as you listen?
[5:52] Check in with yourself to see what emotions are here for you at this moment.
[7:13] Shannon shares why noticing your emotions is a key part of resting and refueling.
[9:47] Shannon shares a little about her own journey in finding time to rest and refuel.
[15:23] Yoga teachers and entrepreneurs often ask Shannon how she's gotten to a place where she's been podcasting for almost 6 years and working for herself for 18 years.
[15:23] We can often have our inner critic kick in. It is important to notice when this happens.
[16:30] When she's going through a tough time, Shannon asks herself two questions. 1) How am I feeling?, 2) What baby steps can I take to bring more ease and comfort in this tough moment?
[18:56] We can find ways to fit rest and restoration into our daily lives.
[21:29] What would that look like for you today if rest and refuel time was your top priority?
[24:00] Shannon shares what's upcoming on the podcast.
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors, OfferingTree and Pelvic Health Professionals.
Quotes from this episode:
“What could you do in this moment that would bring you ease and comfort?”
“Acknowledge those feelings, it's okay to not be okay.” - Tess Jewell-Larson
“We can't just depend on sleep to restore us.”
“What would that look like for you today if rest and refuel time was your top priority?”
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
307: Taking Diet-Culture Out of Ayurveda with Diane Finlayson
Description:
One of the harmful messages that we get in the broader health and wellness industry and in the yoga world is arounddiet culture. How does it show up in Ayurveda as well, and what can we do about it? Diane Finlayson shares her insights.
Diane Finlayson has been educating yoga teachers, therapists, ayurvedic and meditation facilitators for the past 20 years. Diane recently retired from her service at MUIH (Maryland University of Integrative Health) as the Department Chair for Yoga Therapy and Ayurveda. Prior to that, Diane had 3 yoga studios and ran YTT 200/300 Ayurveda trainings as well as meditation facilitator trainings for 15 years. Diane also serves the recovery community in her private practice.
Diane explains what Ayurveda is and how colonization has affected Ayurveda. She highlights the differences in practice between North America and India, and the scope of practice of different practitioners in the industry and what to be aware of before working with someone in Ayurveda. Diane also shares more about the ways in which diet culture can show up, what she does when she sees it online, and how people interested in adopting Ayurvedic practices can learn and integrate them in their lives more safely.
Key Takeaways:
[3:14] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Diane Finlayson.
[7:29] What does Diane do and who does she do it for?
[8:06] How does Diane feel about all the changes in her life at this time, especially around retirement?
[9:29] What is Ayurveda? Diane shares a little about the history of Ayurveda and the impact colonization had on it.
[14:28] Diane explains how Ayurveda is shared and consumed in North America.
[16:05] The scope of practice in Ayurveda around talking to people about food is really blurred. Diane explains how you can be aware of what you're getting into and how to check the credentials of a practitioner.
[19:41] Diane highlights some of the different levels of practitioners you might encounter and what they might offer.
[22:23] What is orthorexia?
[27:08] What are some things Diane wishes yoga teachers knew about orthorexia?
[30:06] Shannon pops in to share some news about OfferingTree.
[33:19] What are Diane's thoughts about how we talk about the food that we're putting into our own bodies?
[37:55] What was it like for Diane deciding which of her teacher's recommendations to follow?
[41:01] Whether you're teaching yoga or sharing Ayurveda, how can you encourage agency with our students?
[44:58] Shannon reflects that in a lot of our relationships as yoga teachers or Ayurveda practitioners, the other person may be looking for you to tell them what to do.
[45:43] Rather than approaching with an attitude of understanding and certainty, try keeping curiosity at the forefront.
[47:01] Where does Diane recommend going to learn more about Ayurveda?
[49:46] What is something that has really impacted Diane or the people she works with?
[53:14] Connect with Diane on social media to continue this conversation.
[53:55] What does Diane do when she sees harmful comments or perspectives shared online?
[56:31] Shannon shares her biggest takeaways from this episode.
[58:50] Please leave the podcast a review on iTunes!
[60:03] Hang out with Shannon in real-time online in the Pelvic Health Professionals membership.
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors, OfferingTree and Pelvic Health Professionals.
Quotes from this episode:
"Diet culture has already put so many rules and weirdness in place on individuals that [orthorexia] is just one more flavor of eating disorder that can take hold."
"When a person can be curious and mindful about their lived experience, they can, in my opinion, better care for themselves because they have a deeper connection to self."
"It's about understanding how this digestive system we have operates and being able to support it in doing its job."
"I think people create a lot of more suffering for themselves than they need."
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
306: Is There More Room for Online Yoga? with Sadie Nardini
Description:
If you have ever had the thought that “everyone is teaching yoga online, why should I add to the mix?” or felt like “someone else has already done what I want to do, why should I even bother”, you are not alone. Sadie Nardini answers the question that many yoga teachers are asking these days - is there more room for online yoga?
Sadie Nardini is the founder of Core Strength Vinyasa Yoga®, an anatomy-enhanced yoga style, and The Yoga Shred®, a joint-safer HIIT + Yoga fitness style, designed to help people get stronger more safely, without wasting time or energy. She is a top online yoga and fitness course creator with a thriving online subscription studio: The Fit & Fierce Club. She translates her years of technical knowledge into success tools that are easy to understand and implement. Sadie is also the lead singer of the rock band Sadie & The Tribe.
As someone who was teaching yoga online long before the pandemic started, Sadie has a lot of experience in the online space. She shares her opinions about whether there is really room in the yoga world for more online yoga especially now that a lot of yoga teachers and studios have moved online because of the pandemic. Spoiler alert - there’s PLENTY of room for everyone. Sadie also explains why it’s so important to show up as yourself, regardless of how you look or how young or flexible you are (or aren’t) and how this can make your marketing online unique. She shares tips on how to tap into your creativity, how to stay consistent in your marketing, and more!
Key Takeaways:
[0:51] Shannon invites listeners to thank OfferingTree for sponsoring this podcast for a full year by creating a post on social media.
[3:28] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Sadie Nardini.
[8:46] Who is Sadie and what does she do?
[12:00] Sadie shares how she discovered her own style and uniqueness as a yoga teacher.
[14:46] As a surprise for Rebecca Sebastian (Ep. 304), Shannon invited her to join this call with Sadie.
[19:10] What would Sadie say to a yoga teacher who believes that there is no room for them to teach yoga online, especially since the pandemic?
[20:35] How can yoga teachers market themselves online without having to leverage their sad stories or trauma?
[25:28] How does Sadie plan her marketing so that she is consistently offering people value in some way?
[28:51] Sadie recently made a shift in the audience she was connecting with. What was that experience like?
[34:10] Shannon highlights the fact that people do want to learn from teachers who are older or have experienced pain or mobility issues because they bring that experience to their classes.
[36:40] There is a shift happening in the yoga industry as the first real generation of women yoga teachers are aging - how do they navigate continuing their careers?
[40:54] Shannon pops in to share a little about OfferingTree and how it has helped her run her business more efficiently.
[42:40] How can yoga teachers recognize their gifts and know that they have something unique and important to share online?
[45:39] Sadie shares some insights about how to practice yoga so that it doesn't have a negative impact on our bodies in the future.
[50:16] What tips does Sadie have for a yoga teacher who is just starting out and doesn't have the same level of support?
[55:42] What strategies does Sadie use to open the lines of communication with her audience online?
[58:28] What are some things that Sadie does to foster her creativity?
[62:35] You need to sit with yourself to get the inspiration and creativity from within.
[65:50] What are your biggest takeaways from this conversation with Sadie?
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors, OfferingTree and Pelvic Health Professionals.
Quotes from this episode:
"It was me realizing I wasn't being true to myself and just deciding to do something I wasn't seeing out there and I think that's where my success came from."
"Everyone has something unique to offer."
"If you don't go [online] you have a 100% chance of failure. And if you do go on there, the percentage is way less."
"It's deeply scary to change anything. Even if you know it might be for the best."
"If you're not in the business of serving other people and helping them, then go get a job that pays you better."
"Generating content from your passionate inner core is really important because it's just shinier energetically."
"When we get together, we rise together."
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
305: Kicked Out of Yoga [Part 2] with Chioma Njoku
Description:
Learning and unlearning is part of our journey as yoga teachers and as humans. In Episode 275, Shannon shared stories from people who had been kicked out of yoga class or made to feel unwelcome in yoga spaces. Chioma Njoku, podcast listener, shared a response to this episode, featured here.
Chioma is the owner and Chief Mindful Operator at the Mindful Bookkeeper. She is also the host of the Cheers to Your Prosperity podcast. Using the lessons she has learned from her own financial struggles, her professional experience as an accountant for over 18 years, and Financial Coach, Chioma helps entrepreneurs and small business owners keep more of their hard-earned money in the bank without sacrificing the things that make life enjoyable.
In her response, Chioma reflects on how she may have contributed to making her yoga classes feel unwelcoming to some people because of what and how she was taught. She also shares a personal experience where she was kicked out of a yoga class. It is brave and vulnerable and we can all learn a lot from this to do better as yoga teachers and make the yoga world a more welcoming space for everyone.
Key Takeaways:
[3:28] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Chioma Njoku.
[6:50] Chioma shares a response to the podcast episode about being kicked out of a yoga class.
[11:52] Shannon pops to share a resource that has helped her book her podcast interviews.
[13:54] Chioma shares the incident that got her kicked out of a yoga studio.
[18:06] Shannon invites you to share your thoughts about this topic or anything else in the yoga world.
[20:37] Shannon shares some ways you can connect with her and continue learning forward.
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors, OfferingTree and Pelvic Health Professionals.
Quotes from this episode:
"I understand that everything I just said in terms of what I was taught is foolish because your practice is your practice."
"Not many people are willing to speak to some of the unfortunate things of the industry, but in understanding some of the shadows of any industry, specifically this industry that's overall intended to be good, it helps those of us who do teach yoga."
"Sometimes we do have to take the negative feedback, the neutral feedback along with the positive feedback to really make this a much better situation."
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
304: How Are We Still here? with Rebecca Sebastian
Description:
Have you ever felt like you wanted to quit the yoga industry? You are not alone. Shannon Crow, host of The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast, and Rebecca Sebastian, host of the Working in Yoga Podcast, chat about what it’s like to feel like quitting - and why they have stayed on and continued their work in this space.
Rebecca Sebastian has been teaching yoga for 20 years and working as a yoga therapist for a decade. She is also a yoga studio owner, yoga non-profit founder, and the host of the Working In Yoga podcast. She isn’t afraid to stand up for human rights and yoga – and she also isn’t afraid to discuss tough topics in the yoga industry.
Shannon and Rebecca discuss some of the big topics that have come up in the yoga industry in 2022. They talk about how yoga teachers are feeling isolated, competition in the industry, some toxic practices that have taken hold, and what we can do about it. They also explore what teaching yoga may look like in 2023, marketing for yoga teachers, how to build a better yoga industry going forward, and much more.
Key Takeaways:
[2:37] This episode was originally recorded for Rebecca Sebastian's podcast, Working in Yoga. Shannon and Rebecca discuss how they have continued in the work they do despite wanting to quit.
[5:29] With everything that has happened in the yoga industry in 2022, why are Rebecca and Shannon still here?
[9:05] Many yoga teachers feel isolated in this profession.
[11:47] Everyone in the yoga industry is trying to navigate building their business as best as they can but some things can create a toxic environment. How do Shannon and Rebecca deal with negative elements like diet culture in the industry.
[17:26] Rebecca encourages us to talk more about the benefits of yoga, like nervous system regulation.
[21:27] What is the yoga industry going to look like in 2023 in terms of virtual and in-person classes?
[29:26] Sadie Mardini responds to Rebecca's question about how yoga teachers and studios who had been online before the pandemic were impacted by everyone else moving online.
[31:15] Shannon pops in with a reminder to put yourself out there and to create your website if you don't have one!
[35:11] What does the competitiveness of the industry look like in 2022?
[37:54] Rebecca invites listeners to create a meet up to meet people in your local community.
[42:54] You can also find great communities of yoga teachers online to connect with.
[45:52] Shannon shares a tip for anyone running a Facebook group to moderate posts.
[48:39] Rebecca encourages us not to limit ourselves. The yoga's enough all on its own.
[49:26] Shannon and Rebecca discuss marketing in yoga.
[52:38] Rebecca and Shannon reflect on the things that made them think about quitting the yoga industry in 2022.
[58:42] There are some parallels between yoga and entrepreneurship.
[62:45] Does Rebecca think about building her business just to sell it? Shannon and Rebecca discuss what that could mean and how it might work.
[70:40] What is your retirement plan as a yoga teacher?
[71:46] Rebecca calls out how unsustainable the career path is in the yoga industry and shares some thoughts about how things can be done differently.
[76:52] The power dynamic in the yoga industry needs to be reexamined.
[81:12] What are Rebecca and Shannon hopeful and excited about for 2023?
[89:50] Shannon shares some final thoughts.
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors, OfferingTree and Pelvic Health Professionals.
Quotes from this episode:
"We need to acknowledge this has been another hard year for us for our industry. Like, you're not alone." - Rebecca
"I think that makes our industry more powerful and more impactful overall when we're able to share stories with each other." - Rebecca
"The yoga's enough all on its own." - Rebecca
"How we sell what we're selling matters." - Rebecca
"Yoga in itself is a spiritual discipline that asks you to reevaluate and rethink literally every fiber of your being. Guess what entrepreneurship is?" - Rebecca
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
303: Ayurveda for Better Digestion with Mona Warner
Description:
Ayurveda is considered yoga’s sister science but it is still not widely understood in the yoga community. Why is there such a strong focus on digestion in Ayurveda and how does it tie in with yoga? Mona Warner shares her expertise on Ayurveda and digestion.
Mona is a warm and joyful educator who leads by example. Her depth of knowledge, passion, and dedication to the practices of Āyurveda and Yoga are evident in her classes. Mona offers deliberate and mindful practices, details on why certain things are done in certain ways, and a grounded sense of humor. She shares approaches to well-being for anyone who needs to learn. Mona has also authored several books, including her latest, Ayurveda's Three Pillars of Health.
Mona breaks down what Ayurveda is and how it intersects with yoga in a holistic sense. She explains why there is such a strong focus on digestion and Agni in Ayurveda and why routines and schedules are so important to digestion, and more. Mona also shares tips around improving digestion, about prana, and finding balance in our lives,
This is a rich conversation for anyone who’s keen to learn more about Ayurveda.
Key Takeaways:
[3:01] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Mona Warner.
[6:21] How did Mona get into working with Ayurveda?
[9:56] What is Ayurveda?
[12:40] Mona explains some things we need to understand about digestion and elimination from the perspective of Ayurveda.
[19:16] How does the body's Agni (and Ayurveda, from a broader perspective) tie in with yoga?
[26:42] Mona explains more about how Ayurveda and yoga both encourage people to move towards a balanced mind - and how this can help achieve health.
[30:16] Shannon shares an experience she recently had attending an online workshop.
[34:04] What are some routines and practices that can help improve digestion?
[36:50] Should everyone have the same routines or does it differ for each person?
[38:55] What are some things we need to be mindful of in terms of how we are pooping and what our bowel movements look like?
[42:36] What is something about digestion that Mona wishes everyone knew?
[44:08] What else are we digesting apart from food?
[51:08] How does Mona work with people now through the pandemic and how are they doing?
[54:27] Connect with Mona and learn more from her via her book and website.
[56:58] Shannon shares her key takeaways from this conversation with Mona.
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors, OfferingTree and Pelvic Health Professionals.
Quotes from this episode:
"Ayurveda is this system that has created a whole bunch of different maps that lets us navigate the terrain of life."
"Ayurveda has the maps, the tools, and the ability to help us live a fruitful and a health-filled life."
"Our Agni, our digestive fire, is the sun of our individual solar system or incarnation."
"For yoga, the traditional goal is enlightenment. For Ayurveda, the traditional goal is health."
"Ayurveda uses this idea of working with the mind through yoga techniques of mantra, meditation, etc. all the time because so many causative factors of disease actually start in the mind."
"Whether you like schedules or not, your biology does and your Agni does."
"It's important to recognize there's a difference between what you like and what is health-promoting and good for you."
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
302: Yoga for Grief & Loss with Susan Andersen
Description:
Most people have personal experiences with loss in its many forms - loss of a loved one or pet, loss of a home or job or business, and even during COVID, the loss of normalcy. Grief is a normal part of loss but how can yoga support us in these times? Susan “Sue” Andersen shares her insights.
Sue works with people who have experienced loss and are grieving through yoga and movement. Meditation, mindfulness and breath work are key elements that Sue incorporates into her teaching to connect the physical to the spiritual practice. Her goal is to help students find their own practice and to enjoy all the benefits yoga brings.
Sue shares how she got into yoga and grief work after her son died, why yoga is a beneficial tool in navigating grief and loss, and how we can support our yoga students when they come to us with their grief. She also explains the role yoga can play in moving through self-blame and criticism, releasing emotions like anger, shame, and guilt, and why grief looks different for everyone.
This episode is a must-listen for every yoga teacher as we support people who will inevitably encounter loss and grief in their lives.
Key Takeaways:
[3:07] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Susan Andersen.
[6:43] What does Sue do and who does she do it for?
[7:14] How did Su get into doing this work?
[9:50] What is grief?
[14:42] Why is yoga effective for grief?
[17:21] What can yoga teachers do when a student expresses their loss and grief to them?
[19:50] What are some things that wouldn't be helpful when a student is dealing with grief?
[22:45] Shannon pops in to share some feedback from Carly, a yoga teacher who is using OfferingTree for her website.
[25:07] What are some of the differences between a regular yoga class and a specialty yoga class for grief?
[33:39] Does Sue talk about grief in her sessions? Is it helpful?
[36:35] What has Sue learned from her personal experience of grief that she wishes she had known at the beginning?
[39:20] What would Sue say to yoga teachers who are personally dealing with grief?
[41:16] Connect with Sue and learn more from her via her website and on YouTube.
[42:17] Sue gives a shout out to Paul Denniston of Grief Yoga.
[43:12] Shannon shares her key takeaways from this interview.
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors, OfferingTree and Pelvic Health Professionals.
Quotes from this episode:
"When we experience loss, we grieve."
"All the things that we talk about in these programs can help for any type of grief because it's releasing the emotion from the body."
"You can't fix something ... you want to just let that person know that you're there."
"In general, I don't think any of us rest enough. In particular, if you're holding a lot of grief or stress, you're probably resting even less."
"It is really important to let all of these emotions out and not hold anything in."
"Everybody's grief is different. Their timeline is different."
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
301: Trauma and Business Ownership with Nicole Lewis-Keeber
Description:
Everyone goes through events and/or experiences that cause trauma, and they can have an impact on how we show up in and run our businesses. Yet, this isn’t something people often talk about. Nicole Lewis-Keeber shares their insights about navigating business ownership and trauma.
Nicole Lewis-Keeber is a business therapist and mindset coach for small business owners, entrepreneurs and leaders. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Masters in Social Work and a rich experience of working as a therapist. Nicole is also certified in Brené Brown’s The Daring Way™ and Dare To Lead™ methodologies and provides trainings and mentoring for those who want to become daring leaders. They have combined their experience as a therapist and training as a coach to offer therapeutic and business solutions.
Nicole explains how trauma ties into creating and running our own business, including what kind of trauma "counts", why starting a business involves diving into our "stuff", and why our “big why” is likely connected to childhood trauma. They also share more about the importance of therapy as an entrepreneur, dealing with burnout, and why we need to separate ourselves from our businesses. If you are keen to learn more about how to create a business you love, this is a must-listen.
Key Takeaways:
[3:35] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Nicole Lewis-Keeber.
[5:38] What does Nicole do and who do they do it for?
[6:47] Does everyone have childhood trauma?
[8:39] What does trauma have to do with business?
[10:04] How do we figure out the traumatic events in our childhoods that inform our deeper 'why', and what is the value of figuring that out?
[12:35] What are some examples of how our deeper 'why' tied to trauma can show up as entrepreneurs in the health and wellness space?
[15:33] How else can this show up in our businesses?
[20:02] Nicole shares some ways that we can start to help ourselves if we recognize that there were some traumatic events in our childhoods that may be playing out in our businesses.
[23:53] Shannon gives a shout out to the sponsor, OfferingTree.
[25:45] Shannon and Nicole discuss procrastination and how that ties in with everything else.
[28:05] What other things can we do in coming to terms with how our trauma influences our business?
[30:37] For yoga teachers, it can be more difficult to separate themselves from their business of teaching yoga because of how intertwined their lives can be to yoga. What are Nicole's thoughts on that?
[32:29] Nicole shares their thoughts on the discomfort that yoga teachers may have around bringing business into their work with yoga.
[35:46] Nicole shares how you can work with her if you are keen on getting more of their expert insight into how your traumas may be informing your business.
[37:35] What is something Nicole wishes entrepreneurs knew or understood as they're facing the daily challenges of running a business?
[39:18] Shannon shares her key takeaways from this interview with Nicole and encourages you to choose one thing that really resonated for you and implement that.
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors, OfferingTree and Pelvic Health Professionals.
Quotes from this episode:
"I've not met anyone yet who hasn't had some kind of traumatic event in childhood that changed things for them."
"All the systems around us also can be very traumatic."
"A lot of the business schools and a lot of coaches would like you to believe that all you need is a sales plan, a marketing plan, business plan, but I totally believe that you need an emotional sustainability plan for your business."
"We start to modify ourselves and how we operate to try and feel safe because of those experiences and that changes how we see ourselves and what we believe is possible for us over time and how we value ourselves."
"Big T Trauma explodes, little T trauma erodes, but they are both strong enough to move a mountain."
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
300: Celebrating 300 Episodes! with Shannon Crow
Description:
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast celebrates 300 episodes! In this milestone episode, host Shannon Crow talks about some of the things that have helped her stay consistent with putting out the podcast and answers some questions from listeners!
We are so grateful for your support through these 300 episodes and look forward to bringing you more episodes that will help you stay connected to the information and inspiration that will support you as you build your yoga business!
Key Takeaways:
[2:25] Shannon celebrates 300 episodes of the podcast!
[4:15] Aruna sent in the first question. What was the first thing Shannon outsourced to help her stay consistent and get to 300 episodes and what would she never let go of?
[11:30] Shannon gives a shout out of thanks to sponsor, OfferingTree and shares a conversation she had with a fellow yoga teacher, Sarah Villamil, about her experience with OfferingTree.
[14:45] Renee has another question for Shannon. What were the top three things that Shannon has learned from all her guests?
[25:54] What are the top three things you have learned from this podcast?
[30:59] Thank you dear listener for all your support through these 300 episodes!
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors, OfferingTree and Pelvic Health Professionals.
Quotes from this episode:
"Two things have helped me get to this point of 300 episodes. That is feeling the fear and doing it anyway. And also letting my message be louder than my doubts and my fears."
"If there is something that you're doing over and over again and you're not getting a lot of joy out of it and it's an automated task, that is something to look at to pass on to someone else."
"Communicate and listen to understand, not to be understood."
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
299: Yoga for Menopause with Niamh Daly
Description:
About half the world’s population experiences menopause at some point in their lives, yet it is still not very well understood and people at this stage of their life may not get the support they need. Niamh Daly fills in some of the gaps we may have in our understanding and knowledge of menopause.
Niamh teaches and supports women in navigating life changes, especially menopause, whether medically, surgically, prematurely or naturally induced, through adapted yoga and nutrition. She trains yoga teachers worldwide to understand menopause and the stages immediately preceding, and after, and how much support they can give through additions to, and enhancements of the canon of yoga.
As yoga teachers who are working with people who are in this peri, menopausal, menopause, postmenopausal phase, we need to understand how we can better support them. Niamh explains the fluctuating nature of peri-menopause, how nutrition and exercise requirements may change for people at this stage, and why yoga is beneficial for them. She also questions why prenatal yoga and pregnancy is covered in many YTTs but not any of the menopausal stages, despite that being something more relevant and applicable to many people.
Key Takeaways:
[3:29] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Niamh Daly.
[7:53] What does Niamh do and who does she do it for?
[10:52] How do we know when we or our students are in the perimenopause stage? Niamh explains that there is actually a stage before perimenopause that isn't often talked about.
[16:50] People in the late reproductive stage can have symptoms that mimic perimenopause or even conditions related to thyroid function. How can people get a definitive answer about what is really causing the changes in their body?
[19:58] Shannon pops in with a snippet of a conversation she had with Ashley Hagen about OfferingTree.
[23:51] How does yoga help with perimenopause?
[30:29] Shannon and Niamh discuss the research supporting the idea that yoga is beneficial for menopause.
[32:17] There is a huge lack of education around this topic despite the fact that half the population goes through menopause and a large number of yoga teachers are also in this demographic.
[33:38] Where can yoga teachers learn more about yoga for menopause and how to better serve this segment of the population?
[38:03] Niamh shares a bit more about health at every size and how that impacts perimenopause.
[43:02] Language is also a big part of the education that Niamh offers.
[44:36] Reach out to Niamh to connect and learn more.
[45:52] Continue the conversation! Shannon shares some of her key takeaways - what are yours?
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors, OfferingTree and Pelvic Health Professionals.
Quotes from this episode:
"There has been research in yoga for serotonin, yoga for oxytocin, yoga for bones, yoga for heart health, yoga for brain health, yoga for sleep, all of which coming together, create a very convincing pool of evidence to support the use of yoga to help women through menopause."
"Women spend more time in the perimenopausal transition and post menopausal then they do pregnant and yet there are no first line yoga teacher trainings that really even mention menopause in the training."
"I'm really in the business of trying to help women befriend their changes and their body through menopause and beyond and before menopause."
"We need to learn to embrace the changes because otherwise, we're fighting ourselves till the day we die."
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
298: Photo Shoot Stories (Listener Emails) with Shannon Crow
Description:
When Shannon sent out an email about Episode 294 with Gabriela Fearn about how to plan a yoga photo shoot, she received a lot of emails from listeners! It is such a highlight to get emails from listeners sharing their experiences. Shannon reads some of the stories Connected Yoga Teachers have shared with her about their experiences doing photoshoots for their businesses.
Have a listen if you are feeling alone and isolated as a yoga entrepreneur and connect with the wonderful community of Connected Yoga Teachers in the Facebook group as well.
Key Takeaways:
[3:54] Shannon invites you to share your questions, thoughts, and comments about the podcast. There are a few ways you can do this!
[5:37] Shannon received a lot of emails from listeners about episode 294 - How to Plan a Yoga Photo Shoot with Gabriela Fearn.
[5:37] Shannon shares some tips to get better engagement from her community in emails.
[8:24] Shannon shares Beth's email reply about photoshoots.
[10:40] Jenay writes about her experience with photoshoots.
[12:04] Shannon pops in with a bit of news and a shout out of thanks to OfferingTree.
[14:32] Reneé Clair, who was a guest on the podcast in episode 167, wrote in about her photoshoot experience not doing yoga poses.
[16:03] Another listener, Helen, did a photoshoot in a park with a photographer who offered a unique arrangement.
[18:01] The last email is from Gail. Shannon and Gail have both used the same photographer and had similar experiences.
[21:14] Hang out with Shannon on a live call in Pelvic Health Professionals!
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors, OfferingTree and Pelvic Health Professionals.
Quotes from this episode:
“I let go of fancy or challenging poses and played. She was able to capture these sweet, inward-focused moments of me practicing.” - Email from Beth
“It's not the poses that were important but, rather, the energy depicted.” - Email from Jenay
“I felt more confident though when not striking a "pose" - yoga pose that is!” - Email from Renee
“I think you need someone to have a sense of who you are to bring out the best.” - Email from Gail
“The photographer talked about how a fancy camera was not needed. That anyone could do this work – with an iPhone and some imagination on how to capture the shots.” - Shannon
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
297: Yoga Philosophy & Business with Rebecca Sebastian
Description:
As yoga teachers, we can feel like making money and running a yoga business is out of alignment with yoga and the philosophy of yoga. This can cause us to struggle with marketing and charging for our services. Why does this happen and how can we overcome it? Rebecca Sebastian shares her insights.
Rebecca Sebastian has been teaching yoga for 20 years and working as a yoga therapist for a decade. She is also a yoga studio owner, yoga non-profit Founder, and the host of the Working In Yoga podcast. She isn’t afraid to stand up for human rights and yoga - and she also isn’t afraid to talk about making money as a yoga teacher.
In this conversation, Rebecca shares her thoughts on why yoga teachers are struggling to make money and be okay with making money, and why we all need to double our prices (today). She explains why making our offerings more accessible doesn’t necessarily mean lowering the price and how we can help increase access to yoga while still making a sustainable living. Rebecca gives tips on what to do when you don’t feel comfortable “selling” yoga and explains how yoga philosophy fits in with running a yoga business.
If you are struggling to make money as a yoga teacher and feeling like marketing and business isn’t in alignment with yoga, this episode is a great pep talk.
Key Takeaways:
[0:38] sponsors - OT, PHP
[2:45] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Rebecca Sebastian
[7:41] What does Rebecca do and who does she do it for?
[8:30] Why do yoga teachers struggle to make money and feel comfortable making money?
[11:25] Other than doubling our prices, how can we as yoga teachers reconcile how we view yoga philosophy and making a sustainable living with yoga?
[16:33] Rebecca speaks about why many people have relationships with money that are rooted in shame and guilt.
[18:31] We put a lot of judgements on wealth, but that doesn't necessarily have to be the way - we are positioned to radically redistribute wealth.
[21:38] Rebecca reflects on how some of the conversations we may be having around cultural appropriation and whitewashing in the yoga world may not be shifting the needle but merely adding shame to the conversation. We need to have these conversations and find ways to make a sustainable living in alignment with the teachings of yoga.
[23:02] How does Rebecca help yoga teachers with pricing?
[26:59] Shannon pops in with a shout out of thanks to the team at Offering Tree.
[29:15] Shannon and Rebecca discuss some other ways to determine pricing for yoga offerings.
[31:34] Rebecca invites us to unpack any of our thoughts that are laced with shame and guilt around money.
[32:45] What advice does Rebecca have for yoga teachers who are feeling resistant to marketing and the business side of teaching yoga?
[35:25] What are some resources that Rebecca recommends for unpacking money stuff?
[37:30] How can we tackle that competitive mindset that may come up?
[40:37] What does Rebecca wish yoga teachers knew about how yoga philosophy goes well with business?
[44:21] What final thoughts does Rebecca have for yoga teachers as they start to get comfortable with unpacking money stuff and increasing their rates?
[48:49] Connect with Rebecca and learn more from her on social media or via email.
[50:02] Shannon shares her key takeaways from this conversation with Rebecca.
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsor, OfferingTree.
Quotes from this episode:
"We've taken it to the point where it's not okay to want a sustainable living and that's just silliness... It's okay to make money as a yoga professional."
"The truth of the matter is that if you want to be of service, you have to make enough money to not be the person who needs help."
"If good humans have conscious moral effort to make money and do good with it, we can change how this works."
"Yoga is this amazing tradition, the spiritual discipline - stop selling it. Sell something else and charge a premium price for it."
"I want you to find your humans and I want you to charge them enough money for you to make a living."
"I believe that you can make money and create impact and do good things. It's not an either/or, it can be a both/and."
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
296: Can Science & Spirituality Co-Exist? with Stevie Inghram
Description:
There has always been some friction between science and spirituality. Some people may even think they are polar opposites that cannot co-exist. Stevie Inghram shares some of their insights about the integration of science and spirituality and their intersection with modern medicine & holistic health/medicine.
Stevie Inghram is a Queer & Trans Feminine Yoga Therapist who holds a Master of Science in Yoga Therapy and has been teaching yoga for over a decade. As a Yoga Therapist, Stevie’s primary work is focused on healing the trauma that is so pervasive in the queer and transgender communities. Stevie also hosts a podcast called Queer Story Time via Instagram that is focused on sharing stories from the gender and sexually expansive (GSE) communities and advocates for expanding GSE competencies in healthcare training programs. Stevie teaches GSE competencies at several Yoga Therapy Training programs and is writing on the topic for Yoga Therapy Today while also being a passionate advocate for science & evidence-informed practice in the holistic medicine world. They are a strong believer that a middle ground can truly be found, one that simultaneously respects the scientific method and cares for the whole-person.
Stevie shares more about their background and how they came to be passionate about both science and spirituality. He explains how science and spirituality are both human endeavors of discovery, and why people think we have to choose between them. Stevie also shares their thoughts on spiritual bypassing in yoga, what feels toxic in yoga spaces, and how we can nurture our spirituality while also promoting science. If you have been wondering how you can practice and communicate your yoga while still leaning towards science and combating misinformation.
Key Takeaways:
[2:45] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Stevie Inghram.
[5:35] What does Stevie do and who do they do it for?
[7:13] Stevie is studying to be a naturopathic doctor. They share a little more about it.
[9:05] When did Stevie's yoga journey begin?
[11:26] What are Stevie's thoughts on the idea that you can either follow science or spirituality but not both?
[16:10] It's possible that we will never have the science to explain some of what happens in yoga. How does Stevie balance that in their own teaching, practice, and life?
[20:48] Shannon started leaning heavily into science since the pandemic because she was trying to shift the pendulum in the yoga world. Did Stevie have a similar experience?
[25:04] Spiritual bypassing is something Shannon has noticed in the yoga world. What does it look like and what are some examples of it?
[31:48] Shannon pops in to give a shout out of thanks to sponsor, Offering Tree.
[33:37] How can we nurture the spirituality side of things even as we hold on to science?
[42:09] It can get very tiring to constantly talk about science, and that's when we can ask ourselves "is this causing me suffering?"
[44:47] What is Stevie's advice for someone who encounters misinformation or anti-science sentiment being spread in a yoga context?
[54:58] Learn more from Stevie and find out more about their work on Instagram and Tiktok.
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsor, OfferingTree.
Quotes from this episode:
"So much in this world is divisive and divided and I don't think that it is beneficial to any of us as yogis to be continuing to propagate this idea that science and spirituality are separate. They're really not.”
“Science and spirituality are both human endeavors of discovery."
"The thing that science and spirituality share in common is um they're both Systems of Discovery."
“The reality is spirituality creates meaning and value and connection in people's lives. And the truth of the matter is we don't need science to explain that to us."
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
295: Make Money Teaching Yoga with Betty Welsh
Description:
How can yoga teachers make money? Particularly if they don’t have an online presence, is it possible to build a profitable and sustainable yoga business? Betty Welsh has done just that and is on the podcast to share her journey.
Betty Welsh is a certified yoga teacher and Thai Massage practitioner. She and her husband Barrie live on the water in a small community outside of Owen Sound. This is where Betty connected with Shannon who was teaching yoga classes at that time. Betty is artistic, full of stories and passionate about sharing yoga with her local community. It is evident how much care Betty gives to her friends, family, and yoga students.
Betty shares more about how she finds students in her local community without having a website, Facebook page, email list, or any other online presence or marketing strategy. She explains how she gets new students to come to her classes and why getting students to register has been a powerful tool for that consistency. It is inspirational to listen to Betty’s journey of growing her offerings and expanding her classes to build a sustainable yoga business that provides a consistent income - and you are sure to take away some ideas you can use in your yoga business too.
Key Takeaways:
[3:39] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Betty Welsh.
[7:30] Betty doesn't have an online presence yet runs a successful yoga business. She shares a little about her journey.
[9:12] What made Betty want to move to her home studio?
[10:23] Betty finds new students in her community through in-person techniques.
[11:45] Betty has a paint and wallpaper business that she's been running for over 37 years. How did she build that business?
[12:26] How did Betty's regular students find out about her?
[13:39] Betty teaches 7-9 classes each week and makes a steady income doing that.
[15:54] Shannon shares an update about Betty's businesses since this episode was recorded.
[17:20] How does teaching in the church (where Betty could have more students) compare to teaching out of her home studio?
[18:23] What is Betty's advice to yoga teachers who don't want to have an online presence for their yoga business?
[20:37] Betty sends text messages to people who may be interested in her upcoming classes!
[21:59] What does Betty recommend for yoga teachers who may be a little shy about talking to people in person about yoga?
[23:14] Betty tries to make her offering special in a way.
[24:44] How does Betty run the financial parts of her business?
[26:21] Shannon shares some words from a Connected Yoga Teacher who uses OfferingTree.
[30:22] Where did Betty's entrepreneurial spirit come from?
[31:07] What are some things that could help newer yoga teachers in terms of running a yoga business?
[34:27] Betty shares a story about her mother when she was young.
[36:22] What was Betty's first yoga class like?
[37:16] How does Betty prepare her class plans?
[41:05] Shannon shares her takeaways from this conversation with Betty.
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsor, OfferingTree.
Quotes from this episode:
"Just [in] conversations I have with people, it comes up that I'm a yoga teacher. And so it's just being known."
"It's just not being afraid to talk about what you do."
"If they show a little bit of interest, sometimes they need a little bit of a reminder that we had a conversation and I'm not afraid to do that."
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
294: How to Plan a Yoga Photo Shoot with Gabriela Fearn
Description:
We all know the power of good images for websites and social media, but many yoga teachers don't know where to start when it comes to taking photos for their yoga business. How can you capture who you are as a yoga teacher? What kind of photos connect you with your ideal yoga students? What should you wear? Where is the best place for a photo shoot? Gabriela (aka. Gabby) Fearn has some recommendations.
Gabby Fearn is a portrait photographer, doula and yoga teacher with over 10 years of experience who is based in Sydney, Australia. Through the years Gabby has photographed many yoga studios and teachers and she ensures a stress-free experience by guiding her clients through the process every step of the way while capturing authentic and sincere photos.
Gabby explains the pros and cons of indoor vs outdoor photo shoots, why having a plan is helpful and how to plan for a photo shoot, considerations around props, music, hair and makeup and more. Gabby also shares why using just stock photos isn’t a great idea and why you shouldn’t wait till you “look better” or can “do better yoga” to take some professional photos. This is a practical episode where you will walk away with a list of takeaways to help you book, plan and carry out a yoga photo shoot that makes marketing easier.
Key Takeaways:
[3:29] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Gabriela (Gabby) Fearn.
[5:53] What does Gabby do and who does she do it for?
[7:18] Gabby is half-Colombian, half-Canadian who lives in Australia. She shares a little about how the weather impacts her work as a photographer.
[9:25] How do you choose a location for a photo shoot? Gabby highlights some of the pros and cons of indoor vs outdoor shoots.
[13:33] What should yoga teachers wear in their photo shoot?
[16:04] Gabby shares some suggestions about outfits for yoga teachers in a photo shoot.
[18:02] Planning the photo shoot in advance is key to getting the most out of it. Gabby shares some essential questions to guide your planning.
[19:06] Shannon pops in to share about OfferingTree which allows yoga teachers to easily set up a website.
[21:03] Gabby highlights some of the types of photographs you might need as a yoga teacher.
[23:15] Gabby recommends using Pinterest to refine your vision but avoid trying to copy these pictures because you are likely to be disappointed.
[25:03] What are some things that can help ease the awkwardness of having your photos taken?
[27:39] What are some things yoga teachers should bring along to a photo shoot?
[30:14] What does Gabby recommend for hair and makeup for a photo shoot?
[34:26] Gabby shares some tips about the photos you might choose for different parts of your website.
[36:27] Shannon and Gabby discuss the role of stock photos in marketing for yoga teachers.
[38:17] What are some other things yoga teachers should keep in mind as they plan their yoga photo shoot?
[40:30] It's really important for your photos to reflect the kind of yoga you offer and what your students are looking for.
[41:53] Find out more about Gabby's work on her website and connect with her on Instagram.
[46:03] Gabby's final tip is to take a bath at the end of a photo shoot!
[46:30] Shannon shares her takeaways from this conversation with Gabby.
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsor, OfferingTree.
Quotes from this episode:
"Planning your session is key to getting the most out of it and making the most of your time."
"It's really important to think about your personal style and what you wear when you practice."
"Do I need a list of poses to bring with me to our session? I would say yes, it does really help."
"I want you to embrace who you are and we'll end up with beautiful photos of you no matter what."
"You want your photos to reflect you."
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
293: Eating Disorder Recovery & Yoga with Vivian Selles
Description:
Eating disorders are a serious condition that can even be life threatening or fatal in some cases yet we may not always recognize that someone is experiencing an eating disorder. Globally, 9% of the world population are affected by eating disorders and this number is increasing each year. How can yoga teachers support people with eating disorders? Vivian Selles has some insights.
Vivian is an experienced registered yoga teacher and Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Provider (ERYT-200/YACEP). She teaches full-time in eating disorder recovery centers in Charlotte, NC, and uses her practice and teachings to cultivate positive change in the yoga community. As a yoga teacher, her intention is to create and hold safer, accessible spaces for people to connect to the practice and show up as they are. Vivian has also co-founded a local yoga coalition for equality.
Vivian explains why yoga teachers should avoid talking about how much or what to eat, and how this can feed into harmful diet culture. Vivian also shares many useful and practical tips around the language we use in our yoga classes, including how to avoid cues that may demonize certain body parts, excluding competitive and comparison language, as well as how we can make our language and cues more invitational and open-ended for students. Vivian highlights our scope of practice as yoga teachers in supporting people in eating disorder recovery and how having a referral team can help too.
Key Takeaways:
[4:38] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Vivian Selles.
[8:10] What does Vivian do and who does she do it for?
[10:39] What is diet culture?
[11:16] Dominant culture equates thinness with being healthy. How does this show up in yoga classes?
[13:20] Shannon and Vivian discuss cues and language that we use in yoga spaces that could demonize certain body parts.
[15:12] What does Vivian wish all yoga teachers knew going into a yoga class?
[17:46] Vivian highlights some specific language she avoids and some of her preferred cueing options.
[21:52] A lot of this starts with us doing our own internal work.
[31:04] Messages you might get in the yoga world around what you should eat, how you should move, what you should look like, etc do not align with yoga philosophy.
[34:19] Shannon pops in with a question from a member of the Connected Yoga Teacher Facebook group about OfferingTree.
[37:24] How does Vivian focus on yoga philosophy when teaching yoga?
[44:07] If you are interested in learning more, Vivian has some resources to recommend.
[48:52] Who are some other people who can offer support and are crucial for people in recovery?
[53:09] Our students can also become our teachers.
[58:11] Learn more about Vivian and connect with her via her website and social media.
[59:58] Shannon shares her key takeaways from this conversation with Vivian.
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsor, OfferingTree.
Quotes from this episode:
"Diet culture is a system of beliefs that upholds a paradigm that equates thinness with being healthy and more morally virtuous."
"Considering your own internal experience is a starting point in terms of how we can be empathetic towards others."
"I exclude a lot of language that encourages perfection or encourages competition."
"How are my internal belief systems upholding diet culture?"
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
292: Diet Culture and Yoga with Jessica Grosman & Elyssa Toomey
Description:
Diet culture is becoming more and more pervasive in the yoga world. It can show up in hidden and deliberate ways, and it is causing harm to our yoga students and it can be dangerous. Elyssa Toomey and Jessica Grosman are experts at the intersection of yoga, food, diet, and nutrition and have insights to share on the topic.
Elyssa Toomey is a Certified Eating Disorders Specialist and Supervisor (CEDS-S), Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) and Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT). She is an experienced anti-diet, Health at Every Size informed, weight-inclusive eating disorder dietitian who is passionate about helping people develop a peaceful relationship with food and their body. Elyssa specializes in helping clients heal from chronic dieting, disordered eating and eating disorders through 1:1 consultations and ongoing group and individual clinical supervision and case consultation.
Jessica Grosman is an Anti-Diet Registered Dietitian, Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor, Weight-Inclusive Health Practitioner and Yoga Teacher. Her mission is to help people get comfortable and connected with their own body through food and yoga. Jessica believes that all people have the right to health, regardless of size or medical condition. As both a Registered Dietitian and a Yoga Teacher, Jessica is qualified to address and educate on the topic of diet culture in yoga.
Elyssa and Jessica share their take on how yoga teachers may be contributing to diet/wellness culture in yoga spaces, how we can identify harmful behaviors, and what we can do about it. They also give tips on how to create safer spaces for all bodies and to use yoga as a way to foster connection between body, mind, and breath. Elyssa and Jessica offer guidance on the role of yoga teachers in disrupting diet culture and when it is appropriate for us to refer our students for professional help.
Key Takeaways:
[2:09] Shannon introduces her guests for this episode - Jessica Grosman & Elyssa Toomey.
[6:27] What do Jessica and Elyssa do and who do they do it for?
[8:57] Where does diet culture show up in the yoga world and yoga spaces?
[12:35] Jessica shares some examples of how yoga teachers may be perpetuating diet culture.
[16:10] Jessica and Elyssa encourage us to question what we mean when we say "health" or "healthy".
[18:53] How can yoga teachers who are not trained to speak about food, diet, or nutrition handle questions from students that buy into diet culture?
[21:09] Jessica highlights the fact that anybody and everybody can practice yoga and yoga goes beyond asana.
[22:05] Elyssa and Jessica are putting together a workshop about yoga and diet culture - Blurred Lines: The Harmful Intersection of Diet Culture & Yoga.
[25:21] We are all bombarded with diet culture messages from a very young age, so it can be difficult for us to break away from these thoughts.
[27:53] What can we do when we see or encounter harmful messages in yoga spaces or online?
[31:14] Social media can be dangerous in terms of the negative influence it can have but it is also possible to uplift and highlight the work of people doing beneficial things,
[33:27] Jessica and Elyssa share their thoughts around how we can create safer spaces for all students.
[36:44] We also need to pay attention to the language that we use when cueing poses or variations and modifications.
[38:34] Shannon pops in to share a quick teaching tip.
[41:54] What should yoga teachers do if they have students who may need to seek professional help?
[48:17] Jessica and Elyssa leave us with some final thoughts around diet culture in yoga.
[51:21] Find out more about Jessica and Elyssa on their websites or connect with them on social media.
[53:53] Shannon shares her key takeaways from this interview with Jessica and Elyssa.
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsor, OfferingTree.
Quotes from this episode:
"Diet culture is a piece of this overall wellness culture... It is so pervasive, it's in everything that we do." - Elyssa
"As teachers, there is this level of respect that our students have for us or they're looking to us for direction, not only the physical direction of where to place your feet on the mat, but also sort of that bigger life direction." - Elyssa
"The scope of practice for a yoga teacher does not include anything related to food, diet or nutrition." - Jessica
"Our bodies are to be lived in and not looked at." - Elyssa
"Our worth as individuals has nothing to do with our weight and has nothing to do with our size." - Elyssa
"Anybody can have an opinion about any subject but opinions are not facts and opinions are not knowledge." - Jessica
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
291: Better Balance with Susi Hately
Description:
Keeping their balance is something we may have noticed that older adults may find challenging, or something that we may ourselves have felt we need to improve as we age. How can yoga help with this? Susi Hately shares insights from her experience working with people on their balance.
Susi Hately is the founder of Functional Synergy and she helps people reveal and heal their human potential regardless of their age or condition. She also helps yoga teachers, yoga therapists and health care providers hone their talent and become excellent practitioners. Susi also teaches people, often over 50, 60 and 70 years of age, how to get out of pain and handle other symptoms that accompany aging. Susi combines her formal training in Kinesiology and deep knowledge of yoga to foster the magic of recovery and healing so that they can live well, with strength and ease, and better balance.
Susi shares how she was inspired to get into this line of work by her father who improved his balance and mobility through yoga. She outlines the key elements that contribute to balance and highlights the importance of asking students why they want to improve their balance. Susi also talks about joint mobility, rest, breath and breathing all impact balance, and tips to help our students (and ourselves!) maintain and improve balance as we get older.
Key Takeaways:
[2:27] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Susi Hately.
[5:06] What is the work that Susi does and who does she do it for?
[6:46] What got Susi interested in talking about balance?
[8:38] How did Susi's father get interested in yoga at the age of 79?
[9:30] What about yoga helps people improve their balance?
[11:13] What are the first steps Susi takes when someone specifically wants to improve their balance?
[12:50] How does Susi cater to people who may be fearful about their balance?
[14:34] What are some things Susi loves to share with students who want to work on their balance?
[16:33] What are some cues yoga teachers could be more mindful around when it comes to breathing?
[18:38] What does rest have to do with balance?
[20:57] What are Susi's thoughts on guiding people to the practice of yoga when they need to down regulate their nervous system?
[23:12] What kind of homework does Susi give her students to improve their balance?
[26:22] What are some movements related to balance that we take for granted that we can practice in a yoga class?
[30:13] Closing the eyes can be an important part of training people in their balance. How does Susi address students who may feel embarrassed or afraid of fumbling or falling over with their eyes closed?
[33:22] Shannon pops in with a quick message about the sponsor, OfferingTree.
[36:01 - 36:01] Susi highlights the fact that our bodies can change at any age and people can regain some of the mobility and ability that they may have lost.
[39:30] Why do people believe that they are destined to lose their mobility and ability to perform certain actions?
[44:00] Susi leaves us with some final things to remember as we work with students or work on our own balance.
[44:39] Find out more about Susi and her work at her website and check out her YouTube channel too.
[45:25] Shannon shares her key takeaway from this conversation with Susi.
[50:00] Shannon shares some upcoming offerings.
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsor, OfferingTree.
Quotes from this episode:
"The key components are what's going on in your inner ear, your stimulus system, what's going on visually as well as what's going on developmentally, like your motor control patterns and how your body moves."
"Rest and breathing are important to balance."
"The key is how can we help a system down regulate and have a system become too that restful state.... If we can settle and connect and be at ease, we'll find that the balance is a lot better."
"When you have the correct stimulus, all sorts of things can shift."
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
290: Best Microphones for Online Yoga with Ashley Hagen
Description:
Many yoga teachers are teaching online these days and one thing is extremely important for online classes - sound quality. Having a good quality microphone can really help, but with so many options available, which do you choose without breaking your budget? Ashley Hagen has some advice for you in this episode.
Ashley Hagen is a yoga teacher, yoga teacher trainer, yoga studio owner, and business coach. She gets excited about all the things that support an online teacher or studio -- systems, software, and the technology needed to make it all run smoothly. Since moving into the online space, Ashley has become an expert in building an online yoga business - including what mics to use to teach online, on Zoom, and out in big outdoor spaces.
Ashley gives her recommendations on best mics for yoga teachers teaching online, suggestions to improve your sound quality as you are leading classes, and how to navigate some of the complex technology related to getting set up for Zoom and online classes. Ashley also shares how OfferingTree has been a useful resource for her and why she recommends it to yoga teachers, as well as how you can build confidence to teach online.
Key Takeaways:
[2:24] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Ashley Hagen.
[6:11] What is the work that Ashley does and who does she do it for?
[7:14] Did Ashley's business take off with the pandemic?
[8:32] What microphone does Ashley recommend for yoga teachers who want to teach online?
[11:50] Ashley has done a video comparing a whole bunch of different microphones that yoga teachers use. She shares a little about that.
[14:29] Shannon had a problem with adjusting the volume on her Rode microphone so she reached out to Ashley. Ashley explains how she set up her Rode mic to work.
[18:46] How can you play music on Zoom and still use a wireless mic?
[20:49] Ashley shares some tips on what to wear while teaching online so that your clothes don't interfere with the mic, and how to wear your mic.
[23:33] What are some mishaps Ashley has had while teaching online that she has learned from?
[26:10] If you're having problems with your mic, you might want to check the cables first!
[28:16] Ashley has some tips if you are teaching yoga outdoors.
[29:22] How does Ashley handle recording and editing her videos?
[32:00] Ashley has a quick tip about the kind of content you could be sharing on YouTube.
[32:46] Ashley shares her experience with using OfferingTree for her business.
[36:18] Would Ashley recommend OfferingTree for yoga teachers who are just getting started?
[40:04] What are Ashley's thoughts on yoga teachers not getting their offerings out first.
[41:56] Ashley shares some advice for yoga teachers who are feeling uncertain about whether they can teach online yoga.
[43:30] Learn more from Ashley through her website and connect with her on social media!
[44:14] Ashley outlines the information you can find in her PDF guide!
[45:09] Shannon shares her key takeaways from this interview with Ashley.
[46:12] Shannon did a little mic test to show the difference in sound for her between the Blue Yeti mic, her Airpods, and the Rode Wireless Go.
[49:39] Shannon highlights some of her key takeaways from this chat with Ashley.
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsor, OfferingTree.
Quotes from this episode:
"If that's the case for you where you ever feel like your mics are going bad, first check the cables."
"[One tip is] it's using a microphone for outdoor yoga to amplify your voice with a speaker."
"I wouldn't call myself an audio expert or a technology expert, but I'm a step or two ahead of people because I test things out. So I'm able to answer some questions."
"Yoga studios don't get students before they open their storefront. They open a studio first and then they get the students. It's kind of the same thing. You've got to open your virtual studio before you get people in the doors."
"Yoga studios don't get students before they open their storefront. They open a studio first and then they get the students. You've got to open your virtual studio before you get people in the doors."
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
289: Limb Difference and Yoga with Melissa D'Errico
Description:
Many more people live with limb differences than we might realize. However, we are not taught as yoga teachers how to serve people with limb differences when they come into our classes or create more welcoming and comfortable spaces for them. Melissa D’Errico has some advice and insights to share.
Melissa D’Errico has had a lifelong love of movement. She started dance classes at a young age, and eventually found her way to yoga, earning multiple certifications in yoga in different modalities such as pre-natal yoga, yin yoga, yoga dance, and other forms of yoga. Melissa also offers healing energy work through Reiki. She currently teaches at the Yoga Center of Deerfield Beach, the Meditate School of Mindfulness and at Beyond Transformation and supports the Lucky Fin Project, nonprofit organization working to raise awareness and celebrate children and individuals born with symbrachydactyly or other limb differences (upper, lower, congenital, and amputee).
Melissa shares her story of being born with a limb difference and how that never stopped her from doing anything she felt called to. Melissa also shared some valuable insights around the language that we use around people with limb differences as well as what we as yoga teachers need to know when someone with a limb difference attends our classes.
This is a great opportunity to learn more about people with limb differences and how we can better serve them in our classes.
Key Takeaways:
[2:15] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Melissa D'Errico.
[5:15] What has Melissa's yoga journey been like? What is the work she currently does?
[7:17] Shannon and Melissa discuss her experience with yoga dance.
[9:26] Melissa lives in a body with a limb difference. She shares more about her experience.
[14:59] What should yoga teachers do when someone with a limb difference comes into their class?
[19:11] Melissa shares some insight about dealing with "uncomfortable moments" in a yoga class.
[20:34] What are some things around language and cues that Melissa would like yoga teachers to know and use?
[22:29] Shannon highlights some re-education she experienced at the Accessible Yoga Conference.
[25:18] Shannon shares a little about the sponsor, OfferingTree.
[27:43] What does Melissa say to people who have a limb difference that they were not born with and are feeling like it's a disability for them?
[30:54] What made Melissa stop calling her limb difference a birth defect?
[34:14] What are some things from yoga and yoga philosophy that Melissa has learned and applies to her life?
[35:16] Learn more about Melissa or join an online class with her!
[38:11] How does Melissa make her busy schedule work?
[40:25] Melissa shares some final thoughts about teaching students with a limb difference.
[41:06] Being a "helicopter yoga teacher" isn't helpful. Melissa explains more.
[42:24] Shannon shares her key takeaways from this episode.
[49:52] Shannon highlights some of her upcoming events and trainings.
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsor, OfferingTree.
Quotes from this episode:
"I teach yoga with a limb difference."
"You probably feel more uncomfortable than the person with a limb difference."
"We already know everything we need to know, we just need to remember."
"You got this... just lead with your heart, teach with your heart, the true yoga is in your heart and it'll all work out."
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
288: Shavasana (śavāsana) with Indu Arora
Description:
Shavasana (śavāsana) is the final resting pose of almost every yoga practice but how much do we really know about and understand it? We may think of it as being a pose of resting or relaxation to cool off after a vigorous asana practice but it is much more than that. Indu Arora shares more.
Indu Arora considers herself a lifelong student and has spent the last 2 decades of her life studying, thinking and sharing Yoga and Ayurveda. She is a renowned author of SOMA - 100 Heritage Recipes for Self-Care, Yoga - Ancient Heritage, Tomorrow’s Vision, and Mudra: The Sacred Secret. She is a firm believer that “yoga is not to be learnt and done but explored and realized” and embodies this in her own life and practice. Indu travels extensively within the United States, Canada, Europe and India to teach and speak on Yoga, Yoga Nidra, Ayurveda and Mudras and her unique gift is in making Yoga and Ayurveda a practice which is equally useful for beginners as well as for seasoned seekers.
In this interview, we learn the correct Sanskrit pronunciation of Shavasana (and other asana!) and explore why the Sanskrit pronunciation is so important. Indu shares insights on what we are missing about Shavasana and the true purpose of this pose - as a preparation for death. Indu also answers some common questions we often encounter about Shavasana, such as how long it should be, and if it is okay to fall asleep during Shavasana. Indu offers some deep reflective questions for us to contemplate around why we practice yoga and how we can find, share, and face the truth through yoga. This is a great episode to listen to before your next yoga practice or before you do shavasana.
Key Takeaways:
[3:48] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Indu Arora.
[8:06] What does Indu do and who does she do it for?
[9:24] Indu believes that “Yoga is not to be learnt and done but explored and realized.” What does this mean?
[13:07] When did Indu's journey with yoga start?
[17:58] What is the Sanskrit pronunciation of Shavasana? Indu explains why pronunciation matters.
[24:32] If you are interested in learning more about asana names and meanings, check out Indu's book, Yoga - Ancient Heritage, Tomorrow’s Vision.
[25:38] What does Shavasana mean and what are we missing about it?
[31:36] Shannon pops in with a message about the sponsor, OfferingTree.
[35:33] People have some resistance in thinking about death and dying. How can we approach teaching about Shavasana and deal with that resistance?
[40:20] What elements could yoga teachers incorporate to build more of a practice like this?
[42:34] Indu invites us to consider why we are practicing yoga each time we do it, and to ask ourselves if we are becoming robotic in our approach.
[45:17] How long does Shavasana need to be? Does it always need to be at the end?
[53:13] Learn more from Indu and connect with her via her website, and social media.
[55:09] Shannon shares her biggest takeaways from this conversation with Indu.
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsor, OfferingTree.
Quotes from this episode:
"Yoga is not to be done, it is to be explored and realized. It is a state of being, it is a state of mind, it is a state of emotions, it is a state of breath, all of this."
"What is the purpose of yoga and why are you sharing and why are you studying about it? And why are you thinking about it? Do not lose that focus."
"It is a rehearsal for death."
"Shavasana is the practice of Pratyahara, it's a conscious letting go."
"Yoga is not a feel-good practice, it is a face-the-truth practice."
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
287: Insurance for International Yoga with Beth McVeigh & Joe Fagan
Description:
Many yoga teachers have been curious about insurance for yoga teachers teaching abroad and teaching online to international students - particularly in light of the COVID pandemic. What kind of coverage do you need? Do you need people to sign a waiver? What happens if you can’t control who watches your videos? Beth McVeigh and Joe Fagan have the answers to these questions and more.
Beth is a Commercial Insurance Manager specializing in insurance for Complementary Health practitioners and Studio, Clinic and Spa owners based in Canada. Along with her experienced and knowledgeable team of insurance advisors, Beth helps clients navigate the insurance coverage they need for their practice. Joe Fagan is the Director of Strategic Partnerships for Beyogi. He helps to create relationships within the yoga community to generate exposure for all involved. Joe is a US-based insurance provider for yoga teachers.
Beth and Joe share more about what kind of insurance yoga teachers need when teaching online to international students, sharing yoga on shared platforms, or if they are traveling to teach in-person and abroad. They also explain the legal considerations yoga teachers should be mindful of when it comes to waivers and COVID, and how to navigate getting insurance if you’re planning to relocate and teach yoga in another country.
Disclaimer: The material presented in this podcast is for general informational purposes only. Please consult with your local insurance agent for specific advice or services needed.
Key Takeaways:
[2:27] Shannon introduces the topic for this episode, which was inspired by questions and comments from the Connected Yoga Teacher community.
[4:36] Shannon has a few announcements about upcoming events and trainings.
[8:04] Shannon introduces her guests for this episode - Beth McVeigh and Joe Fagan.
[11:17] What is yoga insurance and what gets Joe and Beth excited about helping yoga teachers with their insurance?
[13:52] Why is it important for yoga teachers to have insurance, and what gets Beth excited about her work?
[15:16] What are some considerations with teaching yoga online? Is there a difference between live classes and pre-recorded classes, and does it make a difference who signs up?
[18:42] What can yoga teachers do if they are not able to keep track of who is watching their videos online? Beth and Joe explain how insurance works for yoga teachers going outside their country of coverage.
[24:02] Beth clarifies how it would work if a yoga teacher who has international web-based consulting coverage posts a video on Instagram and someone from a different country watches it and gets hurt as a result.
[25:37] It is hard to provide blanket statements about which specific situations are covered and which aren't, so it would be best to check with your local advisor for any specific cases you are concerned about.
[27:21] What should yoga teachers be aware of if they are planning to travel to another country to host a yoga teacher training or retreat?
[29:22] If a yoga teacher is planning to relocate to another country, should they look into insurance before traveling or should they wait to get to their new location?
[31:17] Shannon pops in with a quick note about the sponsor, OfferingTree.
[33:44] What are the steps a yoga teacher should take if they are planning to go away for a whole year to teach yoga abroad? How is it different if they're relocating?
[37:14] What are some other things yoga teachers should know about teaching online to people outside their country?
[41:02] What has changed with waivers because of Covid?
[48:09] Joe offers his clients a template of a waiver when they enroll into his program as well as other helpful resources available on the website.
[50:45] If you are based in Canada and you work with Beth and her team, you will have 24/7 access to a group of lawyers.
[53:30] If you are in the US, find out more about getting yoga teacher insurance with BeYogi and in Canada, do check in with Beth for your best options!
[55:00] Shannon shares her biggest takeaways from this interview.
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsor, OfferingTree.
Quotes from this episode:
"Yoga insurance or liability insurance for yoga instructors, it's ultimately all designed for protection." - Joe Fagan
"We are definitely heading into a new age of claims, so it's good to make sure that [yoga teachers are] properly covered for it."
"It's very crucial to any type of online environment to have some type of disclaimer or waiver that can be signed before admitting somebody into that." - Joe
"It's always a good idea - whatever event you're doing, if it's outside of your normal scope of practice - to talk to an agent." - Joe
"Make sure that we know every single detail of your business structure because that's the only way that we can properly make sure that you're insured." - Beth
