The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
237: Scope of Practice & Compassion with Drew Hume
Description:
There is a lot of fear, misconceptions and misinformation about the COVID vaccine being shared in online spaces. As yoga teachers, what lies within our scope of practice when it comes to talking about vaccination, and how can we approach this topic with compassion? Shannon Crow and Drew Hume discuss a recent post by Gil Hedley in the broader context of conversations happening in the yoga community around vaccination and related topics.
Drew Hume is Founder & Director at Navina, where he and his team offer training and certifications in Thai yoga therapy. Drew’s background is in Human Biology, and he holds a degree in Applied Science of Human Biology. While not specifically an expert in virology, public health and in vaccines, he has studied all of those topics to a degree at the university level. As a trained yoga instructor, Drew also teaches certain courses to yoga instructors specifically in anatomy, physiology and also in manual therapy.
In this honest and open conversation, Shannon and Drew discuss the harms caused by comparing vaccination to non-related, unequivalent events, and how we can react when we encounter misinformation or falsehoods online. They also explore whether requirements and policies put into place about vaccination are a form of coercion, what truly is within our scope of practice as yoga teachers, and dispel some of the myths around being “healthy” as sufficient protection against COVID. These are tough conversations and difficult decisions - we invite you to approach them with compassion.
Key Takeaways:
[2:26] This week's episode is a recent live episode with Drew Hume.
[4:47] Shannon opens the interview by sharing her stance on vaccination against COVID, and shares how we can approach these difficult and uncomfortable conversations.
[5:47] Drew introduces himself and his background.
[6:45] Shannon and Drew are having this conversation in light of a recent post by Gil Hedley, and in the broader context of conversations happening in the yoga community around vaccination and related topics.
[8:53] One of the things mentioned in the post was a comparison of the vaccine to the Holocaust, intersex surgery and circumcision. Why is that harmful?
[15:55] Drew brings up the idea of informed consent in the context of the vaccine.
[18:29] Are some of the policies being put into place, like vaccine passports and requiring proof of vaccination to participate in certain activities, a form of coercion?
[23:43] Shannon and Drew explore the idea of scope of practice. Who are the experts we should be listening to, and how can we find that expert information to guide our choices?
[29:25] Shannon gives a shout out to Schedulicity.
[30:55] What should we do if we see misinformation being posted or shared?
[34:47] Shannon addresses some dangerous misinformation about the vaccine. A common misconception is that the vaccine is not FDA approved. Drew debunks this myth.
[37:19] Another fear-based statement is that people are dying from the vaccine, not COVID. Drew addresses this untruthful statement.
[38:08] Shannon and Drew discuss another common comment that a healthy body and immune system is an alternative to vaccination.
[40:33] The pandemic has brought to light how our society has normalized the idea and verbalization that chronically ill or disabled people's lives don't matter.
[44:30] Shannon brings up the confusion around vaccinated people wearing mask, and the importance placed on being "healthy".
[47:52] To what extent is a fully vaccinated yoga class safe?
[50:16] Shannon and Drew explore concerns around disclosing health and medical information.
[51:54] A listener shares their fears about not being able to visit with elderly parents for fear of breakthrough infections.
[53:26] A listener asks: How are children being affected in all of this, because they can't be vaccinated?
[55:05] Drew addresses a final point about relying on our immune systems and appropriate supplementation.
[56:33] This is a very divisive topic and we may be faced with tough conversations and difficult decisions as we navigate this situation. Shannon and Drew discuss approaching with compassion and openness, and really being aware of the nuances in this complex time.
[59:04] Find out more about Drew, his work, and bees in Costa Rica on Instagram and Facebook.
[60:22] Shannon shares her reflections and takeaways from this interview.
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors Schedulicity and Conscious Marketing for Yoga Teachers Training with Tristan Katz.
Quotes from this episode:
"To a degree, there is a certain amount of fear for everyone regarding something, whether it's fear around infection from the virus or fear around all of the other things that have been said about the vaccine."
"Intent and impact are two very different things."
"The reality of the situation is, we all do have the choice to either take the vaccine or not."
"Scope of practice, especially when we have influence with other people is really important. It's a really important boundary to set for ourselves and therefore a boundary with which we protect the people that we're in contact with."
"All evidence is not equally weighted. All perspectives are not equal, and validity is not encapsulated in the presence of an opinion. Validity is based upon the weight of evidence, as opposed to simply being an idea that's present or presented."
"Actions taken for the benefit of other people are incredibly valuable, in some cases, life saving."
"[We need to] think about also how our actions and decisions influence other people in all aspects of our lives. We are in no way isolated from the existence of the people who surround us, in no way, shape or form."
"Your own right to privacy is not more important than another person's right to safety.
"The idea of medical intervention is not a new idea, nor is it having minimal impact. It's having a substantial impact."
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
236: Five Steps to Effective Content with Shannon Crow [Part 5]
Description:
Have you ever felt stuck when it comes to creating content for your yoga business? Maybe you feel like you don’t know what to post, or how to share about your unique yoga offering. In this 5-part mini-training, Shannon Crow walks us through a 5 step process to create effective content.
The last step to creating effective content easily is the PLAN to share, schedule and repurpose the content you are creating. Shannon talks more about how to create content in batches, scheduling tools that can help you get ahead in content creation, and how she maps out her content. She also has some tips on repurposing content, so be sure to tune in!
Key Takeaways:
[2:52] In this episode, Shannon is diving into the last step of the 5-step process to make content creation easy and effective.
[4:02] Shannon recaps the first four steps to creating effective content.
[5:22] Listen to the hot tip of the week from Schedulicity.
[6:46] Shannon reminds us that the yoga and content we share are unique!
[9:09] It's okay to do a B- job with these action steps! The important thing is to take action.
[10:03] Once you're in the content creation mode, think of how you can schedule out your content. Shannon shares her experience with batching and scheduling, and how that works for her.
[11:06] Shannon recommends Facebook Business Suite to help with scheduling.
[12:06] Shannon explains how she maps out her content.
[12:39] Once you've figured out a set of content for one platform, consider sharing it on other platforms.
[14:13] Pay attention to how you write your content, and keep it all in one place!
[15:51] Shannon shares the action step for this episode.
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors Schedulicity and Conscious Marketing for Yoga Teachers Training with Tristan Katz.
Quotes from this episode:
"Your yoga and your content that you share are unique. No one can copy or steal it."
"Remember to keep coming back to [content creation] like you would a yoga pose that you're really working on and it will get easier."
"Go ahead and repeat yourself over and over again."
"What can you repurpose and what can you repeat?"
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
235: Five Steps to Effective Content with Shannon Crow [Part 4]
Description:
Have you ever felt stuck when it comes to creating content for your yoga business? Maybe you feel like you don’t know what to post, or how to share about your unique yoga offering. In this 5-part mini-training, Shannon Crow walks us through a 5 step process to create effective content.
Step 4 is where this content creation process gets juicy. Shannon explores the HOW of content creation and encourages you to think about how you will show up. Video, audio, text, images - these are some ways you can show up. You just have to pick one to start. Shannon has some great brainstorming questions to inspire you to create content, and two very simple tips that can make a huge difference in creating effective content.
Key Takeaways:
[2:36] This episode is all about Step 4 of Shannon's content creation process!
[3:51] Shannon recaps the first three steps of this process.
[5:44] Step 4 is about answering the question HOW - video, text, audio or images?
[7:35] The action step for this episode is to choose one (only one!) way to share content. How are you going to show up?
[8:31] Shannon shares some tips on how to stay on top of content ideas.
[10:35] Shannon gives a shout out to the sponsor, Schedulicity.
[12:46] Need some inspiration for your content? Shannon shares some ideas to get you started.
[20:59] If you're struggling with consistency, Shannon has some insights on consistency vs. quality.
[22:07] Two more tips for effective content creation - split up your content, and include a call to action!
[23:30] Shannon shares thanks, and highlights the action step for this week.
Content Ideas:
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors Schedulicity and Conscious Marketing for Yoga Teachers Training with Tristan Katz.
Quotes from this episode:
“Where do you feel comfortable right now?”
“The key right now is to only choose one thing, one way that you are going to share right now.”
“Another key piece of this is to keep all of your content ideas - the brainstorming, the planning, all of the ideas - in one location."
“Where would you be able to start with this without any hesitation?”
“Do not be afraid to stand out.”
“Yoga teachers need to create consistent content to get to their best quality content.”
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
234: Five Steps to Effective Content with Shannon Crow [Part 3]
Description:
Have you ever felt stuck when it comes to creating content for your yoga business? Maybe you feel like you don’t know what to post, or how to share about your unique yoga offering. In this 5-part mini-training, Shannon Crow walks us through a 5 step process to create effective content.
Once you figure out when and why you are creating content, the third step is to figure out WHERE. There are a multitude of content channels available to us these days, from social media, to our websites, to podcasts, and more - but to get started, you just have to pick one. Shannon shares two questions to ask yourself to determine the best content channel for you, and highlights some of the most powerful content channels we may be overlooking!
Key Takeaways:
[2:40] Shannon is covering Step 3 of the five-step miniseries on creating effective content
[3:48] Shannon recaps Steps 1 and 2 of her process.
[4:31] Step 3 is all about figuring out where to share your content.
[5:32] To figure out where you should be posting, there are two questions you should ask yourself.
[8:04] Shannon highlights some of the channels we might be overlooking to share our content.
[11:26] Social media is often the channel we think of when we think about where to share our content.
[12:41] Looking at the list of channels available to share your content can feel overwhelming, but you just have to choose one.
[13:39] Shannon shares a small pep talk if you're experiencing some imposter syndrome.
[16:16] Shannon gives thanks and shares the Schedulicity hot tip of the week.
[17:33] Shannon recaps the action step for this episode.
Content Channels:
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors Schedulicity and Conscious Marketing for Yoga Teachers Training with Tristan Katz.
Quotes from this episode:
"What is the most effective place for me to share my content so that people see it, are interested, feel connected to it and sign up if it's a good fit?"
"What platform is your ideal yoga student already using?"
“Remember we are only choosing one thing, and that one thing is going to make all the difference.”
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
233: Five Steps to Effective Content with Shannon Crow [Part 2]
Description:
Have you ever felt stuck when it comes to creating content for your yoga business? Maybe you feel like you don’t know what to post, or how to share about your unique yoga offering. In this 5-part mini-training, Shannon Crow walks us through a 5 step process to create effective content.
Creating content can be fun, but what’s the real reason you’re actually creating content? The second step of creating effective content is figuring out the WHY - why are you creating content? Without understanding why you are doing it, your content will not be aligned with your goals, and you probably will not achieve the results you are hoping for. Shannon explains more about this step in the content creation process and shares an action step for you to get started!
Key Takeaways:
[2:23] In this episode, Shannon is diving into Step 2 of her content creation process!
[3:30] Shannon does a quick recap of Step 1 - When.
[4:53] Step 2 is all about answering the big WHY. Why are you creating content?
[8:20] No matter what our goals are in our yoga business, we still need to make a profit.
[10:10] What would help you generate more profit right now?
[13:44] You are not alone in this!
[14:22] Action step: Create a visual for your next offering that you’d like to promote.
[20:36] Check out the Schedulicity hot tip of the week.
[21:51] Shannon highlights the action step for you to do right now!
Reasons Why Yoga Teachers Are Creating Content:
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors Schedulicity and Conscious Marketing for Yoga Teachers Training with Tristan Katz.
Quotes from this episode:
“Why are you creating content? It cannot be just for the fun of it!"
"What do you want your business or your life to feel like in the near future?"
"Ask yourself two questions. 'What is the impact that this offering is going to make to those who sign up?' And, 'Who could I invite next?'"
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
232: Five Steps to Effective Content with Shannon Crow [Part 1]
Description:
Have you ever felt stuck when it comes to creating content for your yoga business? Maybe you feel like you don’t know what to post, or how to share about your unique yoga offering. In this 5-part mini-training, Shannon Crow walks us through a 5 step process to create effective content.
Content is anything that you are creating or sharing to build your business. There are several different types of content that you can think about creating, but before trying to dive right into writing an article or recording a video, the first step is to figure out WHEN. Shannon explains more about this step in the content creation process and shares an action step for you to get started!
Key Takeaways:
[5:04] Creating content is the quickest and easiest way to showcase what makes your yoga unique.
[6:22] Step 1 of the content creation process is WHEN.
[7:36] Look at your calendar and see when you have time to create content.
[8:57] Being consistent with content is key!
[9:57] Choose a weekly time and day to create content.
[11:24] Do a trial to see which time and day works best for you.
[14:03] Find an accountability partner to tell about your content creation commitment.
[15:14] Action Step: Set the time to create content, and tell someone about it.
[16:08] Shannon gives thanks!
[18:25] Schedulicity shares the hot tip of the week.
[19:43] Shannon highlights the action step for this episode.
Types of Content You Can Create:
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors Schedulicity and Conscious Marketing for Yoga Teachers Training with Tristan Katz.
Quotes from this episode:
"All of us need to work to show what makes our yoga unique compared to all the other yoga options out there."
"Content [is] anything that you are creating or sharing to build your business."
"Do you want to grow your yoga business and do you want more people signing up for your offerings?"
"As you work this muscle, as you create content, it's actually going to get easier."
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
231: Conscious Marketing with Tristan Katz
Description:
More and more yoga teachers are digging into how to take their yoga off the mat and continue anti-oppression and social justice work in the world. But how can you reflect this in your marketing, and do it in a way that is genuine and authentic? Tristan Katz has some insights about how to be more conscious in your marketing as a yoga teacher.
Tristan Katz is a writer, educator, and digital strategist who offers business and marketing mentorship programs, web and graphic design services, as well as workshops and trainings centered around queer identity and transgender awareness with an anti-oppression and intersectional lens. Tristan also co-hosts the podcast, ALL THE F*CK IN with Lauren Roberts, where they talk about business and entrepreneurship with the radical perspective that we don’t have to choose between social justice values and being successful. Tristan also sits on the Board of Directors at Accessible Yoga. Through their work, Tristan supports those who seek to grow while staying aligned with the practices of yoga, equity, diversity, and inclusivity.
Tristan shares more about conscious marketing and how we can connect with our audience in an authentic way that doesn't feel forced or icky. They also explain how to find the balance between being compassionate about things happening in the world, and promoting your offerings that can help people, and why taking a stand and showcasing your values and beliefs is important, despite the negative reactions you may get.
If you've been doing some work around anti oppression and inclusion, and if you're really wanting to reflect that in your marketing and share your message in a genuine way, this conversation is a must-listen.
Key Takeaways:
[9:43] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Tristan Katz.
[11:38] What is the work that Tristan does and who do they do it for?
[12:56] What are Tristan's thoughts on marketing?
[15:36] Combining marketing with social justice and anti-oppression can feel uncomfortable for a lot of us. Tristan shares some of their thoughts around that.
[21:49] Putting ourselves out there and taking a stand can draw some negative responses. Why would we put ourselves in that position?
[27:50] How can we add what we're learning to our marketing messages?
[34:42] How does Tristan approach certain feelings that may come up around not wanting to share about the news or other important topics?
[37:11] Marketing is all about taking an intimate interpersonal relationship and expanding on it for our community.
[39:38] How can we find a balance between being compassionate for the things people are going through and putting our offerings out there?
[43:49] Tristan highlights the need to do work that is not merely performative or superficial virtue signaling.
[46:55] There is no one sentence that you can put on your website to show that you care about social issues. The work goes much deeper than that.
[52:16] Shannon and Tristan discuss the training they have put together for yoga teachers.
[53:34] What are your key takeaways from this interview?
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors Schedulicity and Conscious Marketing for Yoga Teachers Training with Tristan Katz.
Quotes from this episode:
"How do we take up space in ways that are mindful and aligned with our practice, with our personalities, with our personal values?"
"How can we offer something meaningful in our marketing that makes a point of connection, and that builds a relationship with people?"
"Silence is no longer okay. Avoiding the conversation is no longer okay."
"I think that we need to stop pretending that things are normal when they're not normal, and that's step one."
"This is about cultivating community and connection and aligning ourselves with what matters in the practice of yoga."
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
230: Anti-Oppression Yoga with Pooja Virani
Description:
The term “anti-oppression” can make some of us feel uncomfortable, and we may want to shy away from talking about it, but that is exactly what makes this such an important conversation. This is part of the work of bringing our yoga into our lives and the world, and Pooja Virani has some insights about anti-oppression yoga.
Pooja Virani is a Pain-Free Movement Specialist and Social Justice Consultant on a mission to spread joy, foster equality, and help people reach their highest potential. Pooja is certified in Kripalu Yoga & Meditation, Kids’ Yoga, and Acroyoga, and specializes in Rehabilitative Yoga for Injury Prevention & Pain Relief, LGBTQ+ and BIPOC Yoga, and Social Justice Education for Yoga Teachers, Community Leaders, and Businesses. She believes in "yoga for everyone" and aims to make yoga accessible and inclusive to all people – regardless of their race, age, gender, sexuality, previous experience, or ability.
Pooja talks to us about what privilege is and the different kinds of privilege that exist, what oppression means in the context of yoga, and how it differs from cultural appropriation, and she has some great examples to really highlight these differences. Pooja also explains how we can move toward creating safer, more diverse and equitable yoga spaces.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to learn more about creating safe, inclusive and accessible spaces for everyone.
Key Takeaways:
[10:32] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Pooja Virani.
[12:25] What is the work that Pooja does and who does she do it for?
[13:42] How did Pooja choose the name "Pain Free Movement Specialist" to describe what she does?
[16:30] Pooja used to hate yoga. She shares more about her experiences being teased and mocked for her culture, and how it influenced her.
[18:52] How did Pooja feel in her yoga classes in college?
[20:34] Now, as a yoga teacher who practices and shares yoga in North America, what are Pooja's thoughts and feelings about it?
[22:25] How does Pooja define privilege?
[24:33] How does Pooja define oppression?
[25:48] How does oppression show up in yoga spaces?
[27:54] Shannon and Pooja discuss the idea that yoga is not religion.
[34:06] As a white person, should you still be teaching and practicing yoga?
[36:43] Shannon reflects on what it means to create safe, inclusive spaces.
[38:23] Is it appropriate to give and receive gifts of religious idols like Ganesh?
[43:18] Is it okay to say namaste in a yoga class?
[48:32] Pooja shares an example of how namaste has been taken out of context.
[51:40] Our usage of words evolves over time - it is important to keep this in mind.
[53:16] Pooja shares some final thoughts around cultural appropriation and further resources.
[55:52] Learn more about Pooja and her work via her website, and be sure to check out the free resource list she has compiled.
[58:10] What are your key takeaways from this interview?
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors Schedulicity.
Quotes from this episode:
"Yoga has always seemed a way towards freedom."
"Just because you have privilege doesn't mean that someone has never oppressed you."
"Why I say that we all have the ability to oppress others is because we all have agency in our lives."
“When it gets to this point where this thing came from India and I'm the only South Asian everywhere I look, that's pointing to the fact that there's been a systemic exploitation of that culture."
"We have the responsibility to figure out ‘what are we teaching?’ and ‘why are we teaching it?’."
"Our use of language is evolving out of respect. That's the way it should evolve."
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
229: Closed Captioning for Zoom Yoga with Landen Stacy
Description:
Do you have closed captions or live transcription enabled for your Zoom classes? It is something small that you can do in just a few minutes, which really makes a huge difference to a lot of people. Landen Stacy how you can make your Zoom classes more accessible by adding closed captions to them.
Landen Stacy is the owner of Emerald Yoga Studio located in Pembroke, Massachusetts. Landen discovered yoga in high school and has continued his yoga journey since then, eventually going on to complete his YTT at the studio he now owns.
Landen loves teaching and the ability to create accessible classes in his studio, and aims to create the yoga studio he always wishes he had - one that is accessible, inclusive, welcoming and safe for everyone.
What do you need to add closed captions to Zoom? Why are closed captions important? What are the pros and cons of different transcription settings? Landen answers these questions and more, including other ways in which he makes yoga classes at his studio more accessible to people.
If you are looking for ways to improve your student experience and create more welcoming and accessible yoga spaces, both online and in-person, this episode is a must listen.
Key Takeaways:
[8:02] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Landen Stacy.
[9:41] Landen shares a bit about his yoga journey, and how he decided to do closed captioning.
[12:10] What was the teaching situation where Landen lives?
[12:32] Some students specifically take Landen's classes because his classes have closed captions.
[14:58] What are the benefits of adding closed captions to your Zoom classes?
[16:35] What are the requirements on Zoom to enable closed captions?
[17:45] Get the step-by-step instructions on how to enable closed captions on Zoom via the links in the show notes!
[18:28] What are the pros and cons of different transcription settings?
[21:36] Check out the transcription tool that Shannon uses - Podse.io.
[23:06] Landen and Shannon discuss how useful it is to be able to add closed captions and live transcriptions to Zoom calls.
[24:20] How does Landen communicate the availability of closed captions to the students attending his classes?
[26:46] How has Landen's experience been owning a yoga studio through the pandemic?
[28:26] What are some ways Landen makes classes in his studio more accessible?
[31:52] Landen shares some final thoughts from his own yoga journey.
[34:56] Find out more about Landen's work and his studio by visiting his website or connect with him over email.
[35:58] What are your takeaways from this interview?
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors Schedulicity and Yoga for Pelvic Health Teacher Training.
Quotes from this episode:
"I love the ability to create accessible classes in my studio."
"I think I'm trying to create the studio that I always wish that I had."
"It's such a small thing that you can do, that really helps a lot of people."
"[Closed captioning] is good for a whole plethora of people who are looking for that extra layer of being able to understand."
"Just having this virtual option has really opened doors so much."
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
228: How to Personalize Zoom Yoga with Arundhati Baitmangalkar
Description:
Are you teaching yoga online and wondering how to make your classes more personalized, create more connection with your students, and continue building that sense of community - from behind a screen? Arundhati Baitmangalkar has some insights about how to personalize yoga classes on Zoom, and create connections with students in yoga teacher trainings.
Arundhati is the founder of Aham Yoga, a full-service yoga studio, and Bollyworks, a part-time Bollywood dance studio, in Redmond, WA. Born and raised in India, Arundhati came to yoga after nearly a decade of teaching dance, and started teaching yoga in 2006. She is trained in vinyasa and hatha styles of yoga from renowned yoga masters, and is one of the leading yoga teachers in her area. Arundhati represents a great balance of classical and modern yoga, and in addition to yoga classes, she offers yoga teacher trainings and workshops. She also runs a blog, YouTube channel, hosts the Let's Talk Yoga podcast, and was voted one of the top 20 yoga teachers of color to watch out for in 2020 by YogaWalla.
Shannon and Arundhati discuss some simple strategies to connect and engage with students, like using their names and letting them ask questions. Arundhati also shares some tips on how to create the best experience possible for your YTT students, and the tools she uses to enhance teaching online.
If you’re teaching any of your yoga classes online, this podcast is full of useful info on how to give your students a personalized experience even on Zoom.
Key Takeaways:
[8:07] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Arundhati Baitmangalkar
[10:39] What is the work that Arundhati does and who does she do it for?
[11:45] What helps to feel like we have a connection with our students when we are teaching online?
[12:58] Arundhati makes it a point to acknowledge every person in her class by name, and encourages questions in her classes.
[17:13] One thing many yoga teachers struggle with is seeing their students on Zoom, either because they don't want to turn on their cameras, or have poor placement of their cameras. What are Arundhati's tips around this?
[21:27] Shannon shares a struggle she has been having recently with leading yoga teacher training.
[27:22] Shannon and Arundhati discuss some of the elements students would get from an in-person class that are missing from the online environment, and how to cater to that.
[29:05] Breakout rooms in Zoom are a good tool to do activities in smaller groups. Arundhati explains how she uses them in her yoga teacher trainings.
[31:31] How does Arundhati instruct people to get help from her when they are in a breakout room session?
[34:00] Shannon shares something that has worked really well for her in leading online sessions.
[35:57] What kind of comments has Arundhati received from students about Zoom classes and being tired of being on screens and Zoom?
[39:18] Arundhati explains why she puts more energy into serving the students she has now, instead of trying to convince people who are resistant to having Zoom classes, and how she keeps students interested in coming back to classes.
[41:37] What are some things Arundhati has learned along the way from teaching yoga online?
[44:55] Arundhati reflects on what going with the flow is like for her.
[46:35] Find out more about Arundhati and the work she does by visiting her website and following her on Instagram.
[47:29] How did Arundhati ensure that her trainees in yoga teacher trainings got teaching practice?
[49:59] Shannon shares her key takeaways from this interview.
Key Takeaways:
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors Schedulicity and Yoga for Pelvic Health Teacher Training.
Quotes from this episode:
"Understand that teaching in person and teaching online are two completely different experiences."
"[For online YTTs], make sure your spaces are well-lit, make sure you can provide multiple angles if possible."
"I tell the trainees and even the students who come to class, you have to take more responsibility for your practice."
"When we plan these trainings, we have to keep extra time for those breakout rooms because I feel like that's where you really get your hands-on experience."
"It's about accepting the moment, even if that moment is unpleasant."
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
227: Is Pain During Yoga Okay? with Neil Pearson
Description:
As yoga teachers, we may have guided students to avoid all movements that cause any amount of pain, particularly for students who may be dealing with injuries or issues in their bodies. However, is this necessary and is pain always a bad thing? Neil Pearson sheds light on what pain science has to say about pain, and how to approach pain in yoga.
Neil Pearson is a physiotherapist, yoga therapist, educator and author. He is also the Founder of Pain Care Aware, a yoga mentorship program that focuses on a pain-informed approach to teaching yoga, and Pain Care U, which offers practical, effective, non-pharmacological pain care for people living in pain. Additionally, Niel provides education to PTs, MDs, and yoga therapists, as well as serves as a consultant to Canada's largest rehab clinic group and pain advocacy groups. He focuses on teaching about pain science, the lived experience of pain, and the intersection of pain science and yoga, with the goal of helping people living in pain and assisting others with the same desire to serve.
Neil answers some common questions around pain during yoga, including whether sharp pain is okay, how and when we can know that it is safe to explore the edges of pain, and if pain is really just all in our heads. If you are experiencing pain, or have students with pain, this is a powerful interview to listen to.
Key Takeaways:
[7:54] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Neil Pearson.
[9:19] Neil talks about the idea that pain is a taboo topic.
[10:59] What is the work that Neil does and who does he do it for?
[12:24] How did Neil start integrating pain science into his work?
[17:19] What should yoga teachers do for people who are feeling pain?
[22:56] Many times in yoga classes, we encourage students not to do things that cause pain. What are Neil's thoughts on that?
[32:05] Neil talks more about the common belief that discomfort is okay, but sharp pain is not okay.
[34:24] Shannon and Neil discuss how determining causes of pain can be frustrating because it is influenced by many factors and is very changeable.
[38:38] Neil and Shannon discuss her experience recovering from a herniated disc recently, and how each person is an expert in their pain.
[44:18] As yoga teachers, how can we know if pain is caused by tissue damage? Neil explains the buffer between pain and damage, and how we can tap into that.
[46:23] Neil shares a bit more about movement guidelines, and how we can pay attention to four alarm systems in our bodies to know if a movement is safe.
[50:50] Neil talks about his work teaching people about pain science and the new training for yoga teachers around pain.
[53:48] Neil shares his hope that this training will help yoga teachers give people a different lived experience around pain.
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors Schedulicity and Pelvic Health Professionals.
Quotes from this episode:
"It's almost like pain has become a taboo topic and/or word within yoga." - Neil
"We have these beliefs about pain and those beliefs lead us to do certain behaviors. And it's also our society and our health care system [which have] beliefs about pain." - Neil
"Just because we have thoughts about pain, we have beliefs about pain, but we never question them, we never get curious about them." - Neil
"What we want to do is recognize is that we have options." - Neil
"Pain is a complex, multi faceted thing. It's not just about tissue damage there are other things involved in it." - Neil
"You can use any aspect of your existence to change any aspect of your existence." - Neil
"It's okay to provoke the symptoms if you feel at the end that the benefits of what you did outweigh the consequences." - Neil
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
226: Questions to Ask Someone in Pain with Shelly Prosko
Description:
Many people start practicing yoga because of pain, to get relief or to recover from an injury. As yoga teachers, we are sure to encounter students who have some pain in their bodies when they come to our yoga classes. What are some questions we can ask them to be better able to help them? Shelly Prosko shares some questions rooted in empowerment, pain science and self compassion we can ask.
Shelly Prosko is a Canadian physiotherapist, yoga therapist, educator, author and pioneer of PhysioYoga. With over 22 years of experience integrating yoga into physiotherapy within a variety of specialty areas including helping people with chronic or persistent pain, pelvic health issues and professional burnout, Shelly is an expert in this field. Her current focus is on continuing education for other professionals in this area. In addition to this, Shelly has authored book chapters in yoga therapy and integrative rehabilitation textbooks and is the co-editor/author of the textbook Yoga and Science in Pain Care: Treating the Person in Pain. She maintains a clinical practice in Sylvan Lake, Canada and believes compassion is the foundation of pain care, healthcare and overall well-being.
Shelly explains why the questions we ask people who have pain are so important, and how that can influence their healing journey. She also has some insights about how we perceive pain and rest, and why having compassion is essential. This episode is a must-listen for every yoga teacher looking to learn more about pain science, compassion and helping people in pain.
Key Takeaways:
[7:22] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Shelly Prosko.
[10:32] What is the work that Shelly does and who does she do it for?
[12:08] When Shannon was dealing with a herniated disc, Shelly asked her some questions about her pain. They discuss the conversation they had regarding Shannon's injury.
[15:25] Many times, when someone tells us they are in pain, our immediate reaction may be to offer suggestions or advice, but this may not be helpful.
[16:11] Shelly shares a bit more about what she has learned about pain care and working with people in pain.
[22:23] Shannon and Shelly discuss the concept of trusting your body to heal itself.
[28:48] Shelly highlights that calming the system can have a profound impact on healing and recovery.
[30:53] Regression is as much a part of progression in the healing journey, and it is important for people to know that, and not discount the progress they have made.
[34:22] Shannon and Shelly discuss having inquiry around movement, and how yoga ties into that.
[40:34] It can be helpful to reframe resting for people who struggle to rest, and encourage them to engage in self-inquiry and self-reflection about the healing process.
[44:42] Shelly shares a bit about using compassionate language and being kind to yourself and others.
[52:33] Shelly highlights the fact that pain is not necessarily bad.
[58:04] Shannon reflects on this interview with Shelly and shares her biggest takeaways.
Key Takeaways from Shelly:
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors Schedulicity and Pelvic Health Professionals.
Quotes from this episode:
"There's all sorts of things you can do that feel good, that feel easeful and peaceful and joyful. So do those instead of trying just to go straight to fixing." - Shelly
"The body is set up to always progress towards healing." - Shelly
"Calm the system down, and that in and of itself is really powerful for healing and for recovery." - Shelly
“The more we check in and be aware, then the more insight we have into our needs." - Shelly
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
225: Yoga for Hip Pain with Shannon Crow
Description:
Do you have students who come to you complaining of “hip pain”? Or have you experienced pain in the hips, lower back, abdomen or pelvic area yourself? Many people experience acute or persistent pain in their hip and pelvic area, and in this episode, Shannon Crow does a mini-training to address these pains.
Shannon has had personal experience with pelvic girdle pain, which she used to call “hip pain”, for over 20 years. In this time, she has worked in her own yoga practice, and with health care and medical professionals to address this pain, and has gained a wealth of information about the topic. She shares some questions that can be helpful to ask yoga students who are experiencing “hip pain” and talks about why the language we use is important in our experience of pain. Shannon also has some movements and exercises that can help alleviate and decrease pelvic girdle pain for you to try out in your own practice and with your students.
If you have ever experienced any sort of pain in your hip or pelvic area, or have students who are, this mini-training will be very helpful.
Key Takeaways:
[6:09] This episode is a mini-training on hip pain.
[6:45] Shannon starts with some questions and definitions. Have you experienced acute pain and persistent pain?
[8:50] What are some messages we have heard about the hips? What are some messages we have said?
[10:49] Where are your hips, and where are your hip joints?
[14:19] Why doesn't Shannon say hip pain to her students anymore? "Hip pain" or pelvic pain usually occurs in the sacroiliac joint (S.I. joint), the coccyx (tailbone), the pubic symphysis (pubic bone), the hip joint, and the entire pelvic area including the lower abdomen, the pelvis and perineum.
[16:07] Shannon clarifies that she doesn't go around correcting people on proper anatomical terms to use.
[17:59] Shannon talks about some of the cues yoga teachers use in relation to the hips.
[19:06] What are three important questions to ask your yoga students who come to you with hip or pelvic pain?
[21:16] As yoga teachers, it is not in our scope of practice to diagnose pain.
[22:52] It is important to understand that the pelvis is strong and stable.
[24:57] The language we use can make a huge difference in our experience with pain.
[25:57] What are some things we can do when experiencing pelvic girdle pain, and the pelvis is sensitive and protective?
[34:15] Shannon recommends trying out these movements in your own practice to see how it feels, and then you can incorporate it into your yoga classes.
[35:20] For a deep dive to learn more about these movements and why they work to decrease pain, check out the full training.
Things to Try for Pelvic Girdle Pain
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors Schedulicity and Pelvic Health Professionals.
Quotes from this episode:
"The key to serving your yoga students is to ask more questions. You do not need to know all of the answers."
“I feel it's very important as yoga teachers that we know our scope of practice, and that as we work alongside the health care team, we really know what our role is because we have an important role to play."
"It is not in our scope of practice to diagnose pain. This isn't our role as yoga educators."
“Understand that the pelvis is strong and stable."
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
224: 8 Yoga Business Lessons with Manu Molina de la Torre
Description:
Being a yoga entrepreneur can be tough. Our typical YTTs focus more on how to teach asana and yoga philosophy, but hardly cover anything about what it really means to run a sustainable yoga business. Manu Molina de la Torre has 8 important lessons to share about things he has learned in starting his yoga business.
Manu is a yoga teacher, a personal trainer and a coach in Andalusia, Spain. Manu found yoga as a teenager, and became a yoga teacher in 2010. After working for different yoga and fitness studios, Manu decided to start his own yoga business, only to find he lacked the business skills necessary. He invested in business training for himself, and realized that this knowledge could help other yoga teachers in their businesses too. Today, Manu helps yoga & wellness professionals take actionable steps toward their vision as entrepreneurs through 1:1 coaching calls, both online and in-person. He coaches in English and Spanish, and also hosts the Emprendedores del Yoga Podcast in Spanish.
In this interview, Manu shares his 8 biggest lessons and tips for yoga teachers on their entrepreneurial journey. He has some great insights that would be helpful for newer yoga teachers who are just getting started in their yoga business, as well as some things every yoga teacher should know regardless of where they are in their entrepreneurship journey.
Key Takeaways:
[7:29] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Manu Molina de la Torre.
[9:33] How did Manu get started on his yoga journey, and how did he start working with yoga teachers?
[17:25] In all of Manu's yoga teacher trainings and fitness trainings, there wasn't much taught about running a business.
[19:10] What is the first lesson Manu learned in business?
[22:27] What is a good amount to have saved up before starting on the journey of becoming a yoga entrepreneur?
[23:13] It's important to keep track of expenses and stay on top of your finances. Having a separate bank account, or tracking expenses on a spreadsheet can help.
[24:10] Manu's next tip is to niche down and to diversify your sources of income.
[27:09] How can a yoga teacher niche down and diversify at the same time?
[29:50] Niching down and specializing can feel hard and scary, but it is effective and worth it!
[31:17] Manu's third tip is to put yourself out there.
[34:57] Lesson #4: Be willing to listen to people's problems.
[40:05] Lesson #5 is to stay open to change.
[42:37] Manu's sixth lesson is about mindset. Reframe your mindset about mistakes - there are no mistakes, only lessons learned.
[46:41] The next lesson Manu shares is to just do it, despite the fear.
[50:21] The last lesson is the most important one - Educate yourself in different aspects of business.
[53:32] Shannon summarizes the eight lessons Manu has shared.
[54:11] Manu shares some of his final thoughts for yoga entrepreneurs.
[56:35] Find out more about Manu's work and connect with him via his website or on Instagram.
[58:51] What was your biggest takeaway from this interview, or something you've learned from your own business journey?
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors Schedulicity.
Quotes from this episode:
"It's really important to make sure that you have some savings or that you have some source of income." - Manu
"When I really started to work on niching down and I started to work on my messaging, I think everything was really, really clear." - Manu
"When you want to help everyone, you end up helping nobody." - Manu
"Talk to your people, tell them what you're doing." - Manu
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
223: Make Your Yoga Website Stand Out with Danbee Shin
Description:
Not too long ago, online yoga teachers were pretty rare and unique, but everyone has had to move their yoga online because of the pandemic. Now, it feels like being an online yoga teacher is so common. How can you make your yoga website stand out from the rest, and really make an impact in the online space? Danbee Shin has some tips.
Danbee is a Web Designer and Copywriter who focuses on helping online coaches and teachers get more clients with their websites, so they can empower more people all around the world while doing work they love. Through simple, minimalist websites, Danbee produces high-converting web designs that help her clients grow their email lists, book out their calendars, sign new clients and hit their income goals.
Danbee shares more about some of the common mistakes people make, and some practical tips to avoid these mistakes. She also has some great insights about building your brand story, why pictures are so important, and action steps that you can implement right away to make your website stand out.
This is a super useful episode if you’ve been wanting to freshen up your website a bit, add something new, or get people signing up for your offerings on your website.
Key Takeaways:
[8:16] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Danbee Shin
[9:36] What does Danbee do and who does she do it for? How did she get started?
[10:40] How did the pandemic impact Danbee's business?
[11:21] What is the first thing to be aware of to stand out online?
[13:48] Danbee shares some examples of when using a story to capture a message is more effective.
[15:32] There are four big steps to figuring out your brand story.
[19:15] Shannon gives an update on Pelvic Health Professionals and the guest expert talk on PCOS.
[20:11] Danbee gives another example of a health coach and their brand story.
[23:10] What are some questions you can ask yourself to figure out your brand story?
[24:37] What is Danbee's response to yoga teachers who think that social media is all about inauthentic self-promotion?
[25:54] Does Danbee recommend written stories or videos?
[27:02] What are some other ways yoga teachers can stand out?
[28:59] Many yoga teachers often don't want to focus on the problem, and are hesitant to put wording related to the problems their clients may be experiencing on their website. What is Danbee's response to that?
[30:40] Does Danbee ask her clients to interview their favorite clients or does she do that for them, when working on their website?
[32:56] Danbee and Shannon discuss why it's not narcissistic to tell your story.
[34:40] Where in our websites should we focus on telling these stories?
[36:10] Should you list all of your qualifications and certifications on your website?
[38:01] It's important to include pictures of yourself to stand out!
[41:46] What tips does Danbee have for yoga teachers who want to update their website?
[43:36] Looking at other websites to get inspiration vs planning it out on paper - which does Danbee recommend?
[46:04] Danbee has some tips around writing copy for your website.
[48:30] Check out Danbee's free resource if you're putting your own website together!
[51:12] Shannon shares her key takeaways from this interview with Danbee.
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors Schedulicity.
Quotes from this episode:
"One of the biggest mistakes I see my clients make before we start working together is they don't talk enough about themselves."
"One of the most powerful things you can do is tell stories about yourself and about your yoga teaching business."
"When you feel like you're talking about it way too much, that's probably the right amount of time to be talking about it out there. Because that's when people start remembering that story about you."
"Stories are so much stickier."
"I understand what my students are going through because I myself have gone through this."
"It's better to have the same picture on every single page than no picture."
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
222: How to Craft a Great Sales Page with Sarah Guilliot
Description:
Do you have a sales page to promote your yoga offerings? An important part of sharing the work that you are doing with the world, is marketing and selling - and there are ways to do it without being salesy! Sarah Guilliot has some tips on how to craft a great sales page so that you can share your offerings with the people they are designed to help.
Sarah Guilliot is the founder of Sarah Design and expert on Sales Pages. She worked as a professional designer in the corporate world for 20 years, before switching gears to focus her energy on helping coaches, course creators, and podcasters create amazing sales pages for their launches. Today, Sarah works 1:1 with clients to create customized and unique sales pages that truly reflect the quality of their expertise and drive more sales.
From the words and images to use, to the mistakes to avoid - Sarah breaks down what exactly makes a sales page great. She also shares her checklist of things you should include in your sales page, as well as how you can get inspiration for your sales page from other websites and your own students.
This is a great episode for every yoga teacher with a website - it will definitely help you refine your sales and shop pages so that you can get more students in your classes, retreats, trainings and more!
Key Takeaways:
[8:24] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Sarah Guilliot.
[9:21] How did Sarah get into creating sales pages for websites?
[10:34] What is a sales page?
[12:59] Yoga teachers might create sales pages for higher ticket items like a yoga teacher training that they offer.
[14:25] What is the goal of a sales page?
[16:38] Yoga teachers worry about being slimy and salesy on their sales pages. Sarah has some advice around getting into the right mindset for creating a sales page.
[19:28] What are some of the mistakes people make with their sales pages? What are some considerations to keep in mind?
[22:16] How many images should you be using for your sales page?
[26:43] You could also show short videos of what your actual class will be like.
[27:46] Sarah shares a checklist of things to consider when creating a sales page.
[34:46] If you would like to see Sarah explain some sales page examples, check out the live video interview (link below).
[35:16] What are some of Sarah's suggestions in terms of looking at other websites to help us design our own?
[36:47] Get in touch with Sarah via her website to do a one-day design intensive for your sales page.
[38:19] Some sales pages don't have an option to return to the main website. What are the benefits of that?
[41:26] What are your key takeaways from this interview?
Sales Page Checklist:
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors Schedulicity and Sukhasana Chair (Code: TCYT10).
Quotes from this episode:
“Make sure your language and your plan for how you're selling to people aligns with what feels good to you.” - Sarah
"Try not to use too many words. Keep your headlines short and punchy. Small paragraphs, and bullet points are your friend." - Sarah
"Try and find ways to use pictures as much as you can, and also try to find pictures that really represent the experience that you in particular offer." - Sarah
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
221: Choosing to Teach Online Yoga with Colin Hall
Description:
Teaching yoga online is not something most of us want to do, and for many people around the world where lockdowns are still in effect or are in place again after being briefly lifted, they don’t really have an option. However, despite being able to teach yoga in person, Colin Hall decided to close his yoga studio and offer virtual classes instead.
Colin is the co-director of Bodhi Tree Yoga and Bodhi Tree Yoga College in Regina, Saskatchewan, which he opened with his wife Sarah in 2004. Colin contributes to the yoga world both through teaching and writing, and his podcast The History of Yoga on Yoga International. In addition to his regular classes at the Bodhi Tree, Colin gives workshops and teacher trainings on asana and yoga philosophy. Apart from his work with yoga, Colin is also a lecturer at the University of Regina in Saskatchewan, Canada, where he teaches courses on yoga, religion, and sociology.
In Saskatchewan, there were no restrictions put into place about in-person yoga, but in December 2020, Colin chose to teach online yoga instead of continuing with in-person classes. He shares more about how and why he made this decision, and the reactions in his community. Shannon and Colin also discuss yoga philosophy and our moral responsibility as yoga teachers to the people around us.
This is a great episode to listen to if you’re wondering if you should go back to teaching in-person yoga in the present climate, and some considerations to keep in mind.
Key Takeaways:
[7:31] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Colin Hall.
[9:05] What does Colin do and who does he do it for?
[11:26] What made Colin decide to open a yoga studio?
[13:09] In December of 2020, Colin decided to close his yoga studio even though there were no official requirements to do so. What was that like for Colin?
[18:00] How have things been since Colin decided to close his yoga studio?
[23:52] Shannon shares a little about her preferred brand of shampoo and conditioner, High End Hippie.
[25:13] What are the restrictions like in Saskatchewan at the time of recording?
[28:55] How has yoga helped Colin in making tough decisions for his yoga business, and as a person living through a pandemic?
[30:18] Colin has never had a job till now!
[35:41] What is Colin's plan going forward with the studio?
[39:22] How can we look at the philosophy of yoga with regards to the choices we are making now?
[42:19] How are we connected to other yoga teachers and studios? How does our competitive nature come into play here?
[48:43] What does Colin suggest for yoga teachers who are faced with hard decisions in their business?
[54:31] We have a moral responsibility to our communities to keep everyone safe, not just as yoga teachers, but as human beings.
[57:53] Check out Colin's online yoga classes via his website, and his courses on Yoga International.
[61:38] There are two live interviews per month for you to check out via YouTube or the Facebook group.
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors Schedulicity.
Quotes from this episode:
"I think that sometimes there's a very wide gulf that exists in between what you're allowed to do and what you should do.” - Colin
"It's very easy to lose perspective. It is really, really easy to think that what's happening now is this new reality that is going to last forever and you are screwed." - Colin
“I feel like my plan is to just continue kind of scrapping away and hopefully at some point come out on the other side of this thing." - Colin
"Your actions as an individual, what you perceive of as your freedom to do whatever you want, is intimately connected with the lives of so many other people around you." - Colin
"Anything you do that creates harm in the universe is harming you." - Colin
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
220: Alternatives to Namaste with Shannon Crow
Description:
How do you close out your yoga classes? Many yoga teachers say “namaste” to end a yoga class, but maybe you’ve learned more about cultural appropriation in yoga and the teachings of yoga, and are no longer comfortable using “namaste” to end a class. Or, maybe your usual closing is starting to feel stale and repetitive, after repeating it a couple of dozen times a week.
Thanks to yoga teachers in The Connected Yoga Teacher Facebook group, we’ve compiled some alternative ways for you to end your yoga classes. For the full list of alternative phrases and closings, check out the article 20+ Ways to Close Your Yoga Classes, or the two Facebook threads in the links below.
Key Takeaways:
[2:28] How do you close out your yoga class?
[4:19] Allison shares Schedulicity's hot tip of the week.
[5:45] What are some alternatives we can say to close out our yoga classes?
[6:49] Expressing gratitude is a favorite among yoga teachers to close their yoga classes.
[8:12] Sharing an uplifting message or affirmation is another way to end a yoga class.
[9:21] Another way to close out the class is to bring the focus back to breath.
[11:01] Shannon used to close her yoga classes by saying "namaste" but has chosen to change how she ends classes as she has learned more about cultural appropriation and the teachings of yoga.
[11:40] Caroline Holmes, one of the teachers in our Facebook group, shared a unique way to end virtual yoga classes - by asking students to close the class.
[13:54] How do you end your yoga classes, and what are the unique words you use to close out a class?
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors Schedulicity.
Quotes from this episode:
“One favorite inside of The Connected Yoga Teacher group was sharing gratitude, expressing gratitude in giving thanks.” - Shannon
“I used to close my class with “namaste” in place of “thank you”, and I switched it out as I got to learn more about cultural appropriation and about the teachings of yoga.” - Shannon
“Caroline Holme shared that she uses the closing of her class as a time to build and strengthen the relationship with and between her students by allowing the students to close the class.” - Shannon
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
219: Yoga for Abundant Bodies with Dianne Bondy
Description:
In recent times, yoga has become a very exclusionary practice that’s limited to the privileged few - wealthy, thin, young, flexible, white and able-bodied people. However, yoga has benefits for people in all bodies, regardless of shape, size, age, ethnicity or ability. In this episode, Dianne Bondy shares more about how we can be more inclusive in yoga spaces towards people in larger bodies.
Dianne Bondy is Founder of Dianne Bondy Yoga, and a firm believer that Self-Love is a Revolutionary Act. She is a speaker, social justice activist, author, accessible yoga teacher, and the leader of the Yoga For All movement. For more than twenty years, Dianne Bondy has been empowering students to come to the mat as they are, educating teachers on the need for inclusivity in yoga and how to bring that into their classes, and leading systematic change within the yoga industrial complex. Dianne is also the author of the international best selling book, Yoga For Everyone: 50 Poses for Every Type of Body and co-author of Yoga Where You Are: Customize Your Practice for Your Body + Your Life.
Dianne shares some really important insights about the harm we can cause with our words by inadvertently using offensive terms when referring to people in abundant bodies in our yoga classes, or other yoga spaces. She explains how to be more mindful of the words we use and choose, and how to ensure that we hold space for the bigger people in our classes in a way that is respectful, welcoming and non-judgmental. Dianne also has tips on what to do when students who aren't aware come into our yoga spaces and cause harm.
This episode is an excellent complement to episode 218 on body positive yoga, and is a must listen for every yoga teacher who wants to create inclusive and safe yoga spaces.
Key Takeaways:
[6:02] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Dianne Bondy.
[8:17] Dianne shares a bit more about her latest book, Yoga Where You Are, as well as her previous book, Yoga For Everyone.
[10:52] What is the work that Dianne does?
[12:06] What are Dianne's thoughts on using words like "obese" and "overweight" in yoga spaces?
[15:27] We are used to hearing such language on the news, or being used by medical professionals, and we think this language is acceptable. Dianne talks about the impact the language medical professionals use has.
[20:04] Shannon and Dianne discuss using the word "fat" to describe people in larger bodies.
[22:40] Language is so powerful in our interactions with other people.
[23:30] How else can we think about making someone feel welcome and safe in our yoga space when they come in in an abundant body?
[27:05] How can yoga teachers address other students who may not be contributing to a safe and inclusive space for people in abundant bodies?
[30:43] What tips does Dianne have to call out unkind comments about people in larger bodies that we may encounter?
[33:00] How can we take the "food and diet" language out of yoga?
[38:54] Find out more about Dianne's work on her website, and on Instagram.
[41:25] Shannon shares her key takeaways from this interview.
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors Schedulicity.
Quotes from this episode:
"We don't get to determine who is overweight and who isn't. We don't get to determine who is healthy and who isn't. We don't get to determine who is obese and who isn't." - Dianne
"Your intention doesn't matter as much as your impact in these spaces." - Dianne
"[Larger people] is one of the groups of people in the world that we get to openly discriminate against, and language is one of the number one ways we discriminate." - Dianne
"Language has the power to elevate. It has the power to inspire. It has the power to connect. But on the flip side of it, it has the power to shame and humiliate and other people. So we need to decide - How are we going to use the power of language?" - Dianne
"The struggle is part of the practice. It's not called yoga perfect, it's called yoga practice." - Dianne
"Everybody's body is doing the best that it can. Can we not just celebrate that?" - Dianne
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
218: Body Positive Yoga with Gillian McCollum
Description:
Body positivity as a social movement has been gaining traction in recent years. In yoga, we aim to empower individuals regardless of their physical weight or size, and focus on accepting all bodies, regardless of their physical ability, their size, their gender, their race, their appearance, as well as challenge the ways in which society presents and views the physical body - all elements of body positive yoga. Gillian McCollum shares more about body positive yoga, and how we can adopt a more accessible approach in our classes.
Gillian is an anti-diet food and body freedom coach and body positive yoga teacher. She came to yoga as a way to cope and find peace and freedom with food and her body, and since 2017, has been helping people get off the diet roller coaster and start feeling good in their bodies. Gillian describes her mission as helping women find lasting peace and freedom with food and their body. Through her group and private coaching sessions as well as Body Positive Yoga, Gillian aims to create spaces where all bodies are celebrated and respected, and to be particularly supportive for those who struggle with body confidence and self-acceptance.
What exactly is body positive yoga? What does it entail? Gillian McCollum answers these questions, and more. She explains why body positive yoga is a way to create accessibility in yoga, and shares what it means to create truly inclusive and accessible spaces for our yoga students. Gillian also highlights some of the challenges and mindset issues that we may have around sharing body positive yoga, and how we can start sharing more accessible yoga in our classes.
This episode pairs really well with next week's episode about body positive yoga and how to approach yoga students with abundant bodies in our classes, so be sure to tune in next week as well.
Key Takeaways:
[6:33] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Gillian McCollum.
[7:44] What does Gillian do and who does she do it for?
[8:59] There are a lot of myths and misconceptions about the yoga world in terms of what yoga practitioners need to look like, or certain practices they have to follow. Gillian highlights a few of them.
[11:46] What does body positive yoga mean?
[16:36] Do people who teach body positive yoga have to be in a larger body or teach people in larger bodies?
[18:30] What are some trainings on accessibility that Gillian recommends for teachers?
[23:46] Having a sample class is a great way to increase accessibility for people who may feel hesitant about trying yoga for the first time. How does Gillian offer sample classes?
[27:23] What is Gillian's response to yoga teachers who are reluctant to do videos because they think they don't look the part of a yoga teacher?
[32:51] What is the reaction that Gillian gets when she shares videos of herself?
[36:43] Shannon challenges yoga teachers offering 200hr Yoga Teacher Trainings to think about how accessibility can be included in these trainings.
[37:47] What does Gillian think needs to be included in a 200hr Yoga Teacher Training about accessibility?
[39:04] Shannon and Gillian discuss how making yoga accessible should come first, and everything else comes after that.
[42:07] Yoga looks different for different people in different bodies, and even on different days, and we need to honor that.
[44:02] Gillian highlights some of the misconceptions and preconceived notions that people bring to yoga.
[45:39] How can you work with Gillian?
[50:45] What is Gillian's advice to yoga teachers who may feel afraid to put videos out?
[54:56] Your imperfections and flaws are what make you inviting, and welcoming - not your perfection.
[57:09] Shannon shares her key takeaways from this interview with Gillian.
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors Schedulicity.
Quotes from this episode:
"I have students and coaching clients who are terrified to even enter the space because they feel like it's just not for them." - Gillian
"To feel shame around your body isn't exclusive to people in bigger bodies." - Gillian
"If this is the posture or the pose or this is the part of the body or this is the theme for today's class, how can I take that and make access, make it accessible for these folks with these different injuries or conditions or whatever it might be and you're only limited by your imagination." - Gillian
"Rather than feeling the yoga, we're seeing the yoga and that can be really distracting." - Gillian
"We have to see things to believe it and see things to give ourselves permission." - Gillian
"It not only shows people that you don't have to fit the stereotype to practice yoga, but it gives other people the permission." - Gillian
"[Accessibility] needs to be the culture, not a component." - Gillian
"You've maybe been doing yoga for years or your whole life, but you've never done yoga in this moment. " - Gillian
"Your message is bigger than yourself and your body." - Gillian
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
217: The Yoga of Trans* Affirmation with Avery Kalapa & Maygen Nicholson
Description:
The trans and gender non-binary community is one that has often been marginalized and made to feel unwelcome in many places, including yoga spaces and communities. Back in March 2021, a prominent podcaster and yoga teacher, J Brown, released an episode that contained some harmful, inaccurate and hurtful content around gender and trans people (trigger warning: transphobia). However, an important part of yoga is ahimsa (not harming others and non-violence). In line with that, and with the aim of sharing the correct information about this group of people who are often misunderstood and misrepresented, this podcast episode focuses on sharing insights from people from this community.
Avery Kalapa (they/them) is a yoga teacher, community weaver, organizer, and educator with 20 years experience. They hold special certification in Yoga for the Pelvic Floor, which they completed in 2014. Avery's approach is rooted in anti-oppression, and they focus on yoga for inner healing and collective liberation. They love creating healing spaces that cherish and center queer & trans folks, that don't require assimilation. In addition to that, Avery is involved in various yoga equity projects, such as ABQ Queer Trans Community Yoga.
Maygen Nicholson (she/they) is both a former yoga teacher and dancer. Maygen has seen the Queer and Trans exclusion and discrimination in both yoga and dance spaces. This is what led them to educate within these industries to create access, equity, and inclusion for their LGBTQIA+ siblings. Maygen believes that the systems that harm all marginalized people actually harm us all, and they specialize in LGBTQIA+ inclusion and validation education with the aim of helping liberate hearts and minds free of biases and beliefs that inevitably hold us back from our true, authentic selves.
In this open, and honest conversation Avery and Maygen share more about what it means for yoga teachers to create anti-oppression, inclusive yoga spaces, and how to create such spaces. They also explore the resistance cis people have toward trans and gender non-conforming people that shows up in their interactions, the impact of these interactions, and how we as yoga teachers can learn together and do better moving forward.
Key Takeaways:
[4:19] Shannon shares about the open letter she wrote to J Brown.
[6:49] Shannon introduces her guests for this episode - Avery Kalapa and Maygen Nicholson.
[9:28] Shannon reads the open letter she sent to J Brown.
[13:23] Avery leads an opening for the podcast.
[19:00] Maygen and Avery introduce themselves and the work that they do.
[23:37] How can yoga teachers create anti-oppression, inclusive yoga spaces?
[27:59] Avery highlights that anti-oppression work isn't separate from yoga.
[31:53] There is some sort of awkwardness that happens when cis people are around gender non-conforming people. Avery explains the need for people to shift and change how they are showing up.
[35:22] Why does this awkwardness exist in interactions between cis and gender non-conforming or trans people?
[38:41] Avery speaks to why cis people may have resistance to letting go of the false idea that gender is strictly binary.
[47:49] What are Maygen's thoughts on the J Brown podcast episode?
[55:41] We need to move beyond acceptance into something much more than that. Avery touches on the idea of the false sense of scarcity that we hold.
[1:02:28] Where can we learn more about the difference between biological sex and gender?
[1:07:03] Avery opens up the conversation about how we can approach people's bodies in yoga.
[1:11:34] Find out more Maygen and Avery's offerings in the links below.
[1:19:38] Shannon shares her key takeaways from this episode.
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors Schedulicity and Sketching Yoga Sequences with Eva-Lotta Lamm Workshop.
Quotes from this episode:
"It's really important that we are acknowledging where we have privilege and where we are marginalized, so it just really informs how we show up in this work, and also how we show up for ourselves in this work." - Maygen
"Biases are inherent in all of us. Transphobia lives in all of us. These are conditionings we have been taught that have been passed down to us. It is deep internal work to release all of these things that hold us back from being able to love others fully, but also to be able to fully love ourselves." - Maygen
"Anti-oppression work isn't separate from yoga." - Avery
"We don't always realize the ways that we uphold those norms that say some people belong and some people don't." - Avery
"On some form, you're going to have to check your biases for the rest of your life." - Maygen
"What do cis people really have to lose if trans people are cherished?" - Avery
"There's room for everyone in the gender justice extravaganza. You might not get to be the big star of the show if you're cis, but there's room for all of us in this process." - Avery
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
216: Corporate Yoga [Part 2] with Samantha Harrison
Description:
Is corporate yoga still relevant now that many businesses have moved online because of the pandemic? Absolutely! What’s more - there are even more opportunities available for yoga teachers in this space. In Part 2 of this series on teaching corporate yoga, Samantha Harrison shares how being virtual has changed the corporate yoga space.
Samantha Harrison is the founder of Samantha Harrison Yoga and the creator of the Online Corporate Yoga Teacher Training. Samantha found yoga as a burned out, stressed out pre-med student, and realized that her true calling was to help her fellow over-achievers and time-crunched professionals experience the benefits of yoga on and off the mat. Today, Samantha is a full-time corporate and private yoga teacher in Greenville, NC and also leads an annual 200-HR YTT. To help other yoga teachers offer corporate yoga as well, Samantha has consolidated all her knowledge into a practical, action-oriented training - the Online Corporate Yoga Teacher Training.
What is it like to bring yoga to the various business spaces in your community, not just in-person but also to the broader corporate community online? Samantha shares her experiences in adapting her business to the COVID-19 pandemic measures, and how moving online has opened up new opportunities for her. She also shares the different types of offerings for coroporate yoga, including one she didn't think would exist until the pandemic hit. Samantha also talks about her corporate yoga teacher training which includes email templates, how to create contracts, how to teach, and marketing to businesses.
This episode is perfect for yoga teachers looking for ideas to expand their offerings into their community or businesses around the world.
Key Takeaways:
[10:50] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Samantha Harrison.
[12:27] What does Samantha do and who does she do it for?
[13:13] How has COVID-19 changed the corporate yoga landscape?
[14:59] Is Samantha still working with corporate clients in person?
[16:06] What are some things that Samantha is doing differently in her in-person yoga classes from before the pandemic?
[18:15] Samantha shares a little about the opportunities that have opened up as a result of the pandemic.
[19:05] What is Samantha's setup for her virtual classes?
[20:03] How does Samantha balance classes where she has students in-person and online at the same time?
[20:48] What is Samantha's policy for students who miss classes?
[21:21] Samantha shares how she discovered a new offering for corporate clients during the pandemic.
[23:35] Why are companies drawn to hiring yoga teachers to teach their employees?
[24:45] What is the training that Samantha has put together for yoga teachers who want to get into the space of teaching corporate yoga?
[27:17] How does Samantha help yoga teachers in her training reach out to businesses and get started with teaching corporate yoga?
[28:18] Samantha also covers pricing as a part of the course.
[29:00] Does corporate yoga refer specifically to a certain number of employees or does it include any business?
[29:49] Samantha shares a bit about her mini-training and the coupon code to get a discount on her training.
[:31:27] Shannon and Samantha discuss the budget that companies have for wellness programs.
[32:06] What is it like to live in an area where there isn't a lot of yoga around, and how does this impact teaching corporate yoga?
[33:02] Samantha's yoga teacher training includes a section on marketing. How and why did she decide to include this section?
[36:50] Shannon shares her biggest takeaway from this episode.
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors Schedulicity and Sketching Yoga Sequences with Eva-Lotta Lamm Workshop.
Quotes from this episode:
"We've actually seen an increase in participation in some situations because people don't have to drive, people don't have to worry about location." - Samantha
"Everyone's used to being virtual and doing so much on Zoom anyway that what used to be a barrier, is now an opportunity." - Samantha
"Now, the options are endless in a way." - Samantha
"You can't wait to feel confident to do something. Taking action is how you get confident." - Samantha
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
215: Corporate Yoga [Part 1] with Samantha Harrison
Description:
If you have been teaching yoga for a while and are wondering how you can start teaching corporate yoga, and how you can get in front of different businesses, especially now that a lot of businesses have moved online - Samantha Harrison has the answers for you.
Samantha Harrison is the founder of Samantha Harrison Yoga and the creator of the Online Corporate Yoga Teacher Training. Samantha found yoga as a burned out, stressed out pre-med student, and realized that her true calling was to help her fellow over-achievers and time-crunched professionals experience the benefits of yoga on and off the mat. Today, Samantha is a full-time corporate and private yoga teacher in Greenville, NC and also leads an annual 200-HR YTT. To help other yoga teachers offer corporate yoga as well, Samantha has consolidated all her knowledge into a practical, action-oriented training - the Online Corporate Yoga Teacher Training.
Teaching corporate yoga is not like teaching at a yoga studio or a gym. Samantha highlights some of the biggest differences to keep in mind when teaching corporate yoga, as well as how yoga teachers can get into this space. Shannon and Samantha also dig into what to charge, what to do when things don’t go according to plan and the rest of the nitty-gritty details of offering corporate yoga.
This episode is perfect for anyone wanting to get into the corporate space teaching yoga, and Samantha has just the tips you need to get started.
Key Takeaways:
[11:05] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Samantha Harrison.
[12:42] How did Samantha choose corporate yoga as her specialty?
[14:14] A lot of Samantha's initial clients were through relationships she had developed over time.
[14:38] Samantha shares a bit more about how her classes are organized.
[15:34] A big part of our marketing really boils down to communication and having interactions with people.
[17:00] How many classes does Samantha teach per week? She shares more about how she runs her business.
[18:28] What are some of the biggest differences between teaching yoga in a corporate setting vs. in a studio?
[21:20] What is the biggest pain point that people in offices have that yoga helps them with?
[23:28] How does Samantha recommend yoga teachers set up relationships with people leading organizations?
[26:01] What is the payment structure for corporate yoga?
[27:45] How does Samantha price her offerings?
[33:13] Samantha has a few tips on how to make teaching corporate yoga work.
[35:12] Samantha explains what she offers in the Online Corporate Yoga Teacher Training.
[40:26] Shannon shares some of her biggest takeaways from this interview with Samantha.
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors Schedulicity and Sukhasana Chair (Promo Code: TCYT10).
Quotes from this episode:
"When the head of the organization, the President, or someone in the executive office sees the value in it, that makes a huge difference." ~ Samantha Harris
"It's helpful for yoga teachers to just always have in mind 'How can I be helpful to someone?'." - Samantha
"You just always have to be ready to improvise." - Samantha
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
214: Yoga Class Bloopers with Shannon & Sinead
Description:
As yoga teachers, we’ve all had those moments while teaching a class. When we get our left and right mixed up, or our brain thinks of something to say but our mouth gets it all wrong, or you get completely confused with your sequence, or any other number of awkward, embarrassing, and often absolutely hilarious “bloopers” - it’s all a part of the teaching experience!
On this episode, Shannon and Sinead O’Connor read out some of the funny stories and anecdotes Connected Yoga Teachers from The Connected Yoga Teacher Facebook group shared. They also share a few of their own personal stories of embarrassing and strange things that have happened in their yoga classes.
If you’re in need of a good laugh, this episode is for you.
Special thanks to Mary Donovan for posting the original thread that sparked all these comments, and to all the Connected Yoga Teachers who shared their stories!
Key Takeaways:
[:17] Happy (belated) April Fool's day!
[1:44] Shannon is hosting a workshop about Pelvic Girdle Pain.
[3:19] Shout out to Mary Donovan who inspired this episode, and Sinead O'Connor, member of The Connected Yoga Teacher podcast team for joining Shannon on the episode!
[4:45] We've all had funny moments in our yoga classes. Shannon and Sinead read out some of the "bloopers" yoga teachers have shared in The Connected Yoga Teacher Facebook group.
[17:35] Sinead shares an embarrassing moment she had from teaching online.
[18:59] Shannon shares a few of the weirdest moments she's experienced in a yoga class.
[21:58] Send in your stories! We'd love to hear them!
[23:04] Connect with Sinead via Instagram to find out more about her yoga offerings.
[23:38] Want to learn how to draw yoga sequences? Sign up for the training by Eva-Lotta Lamm!
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors Schedulicity.
Quotes from this episode:
"We hope that you get to laugh along with us!" - Shannon
"We're laughing together on this!" - Shannon
The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast
213: Work Life Balance with Dawn Vason
Description:
Almost everybody struggles with work-life balance. We have so many things to do in our yoga business, our personal life, our community and more, in addition to dealing with a pandemic. We may find ourselves wondering if work-life balance is a myth and an unattainable goal. Should we even be striving for balance in our lives? Dawn Vason tells us we should, and how to achieve it in this podcast episode.
Dawn Vason is a mindset and manifestation coach and yoga teacher. After some personal challenges, Dawn turned to holistic study and discovered the power of healthy habits and plant based remedies. In order to share what she had learned with others, she created JaviWellness: Holistic Health and Plant Based Solutions. As a success and self-care coach at Holistically Whole: Wealth & Wellness Coaching for Women, Dawn empowers and equips women to balance life and business while practicing good self care. In addition to her business ventures, Dawn is also a mother of four children whom she homeschools.
Life can sometimes feel overwhelming, but Dawn has some practical tips around planning time for both life and work. She also shares her insights about how to build a business while raising a family, particularly in this time of working from home and homeschooling. Shannon and Dawn open up about dealing with parenting (or other) guilt, and explore what it takes to really balance work, your business, parenting, and all the different pieces that make up your life. Hint: Balance is not a destination, it’s a journey!
If you have been wondering how you can feel less worried, and more calm and organized in life, this episode is for you.
Key Takeaways:
[10:40] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Dawn Vason.
[12:31] What is the work that Dawn does and who does she do it for?
[14:20] Dawn shares a little about her family and some of the challenges that have brought her to where she is today.
[15:42] Is it possible to find work-life balance?
[18:15] What are some of the things that have helped Dawn manage her life?
[24:20] Dawn elaborates on the idea of having systems over goals.
[27:42] Shannon and Dawn explore how we can use systems to reach our goals with the example of growing an email list.
[31:39] How can we use systems to find balance in our lives?
[41:25] A lot of us feel guilt around our actions and inactions. What are some of Dawn's tips to deal with that guilt?
[44:30] Shannon highlights how important mindfulness is for her in helping to ease the guilt. Dawn has some tips around self-talk that can help.
[48:48] Knowing what "enough" is can be super powerful, but we think we haven't done enough, it can hinder our progress. Dawn speaks to this.
[52:05] What are some small steps we can take to move toward creating a self-care routine?
[56:23] What helps Dawn come back to balance amidst juggling all the different parts of her life?
[58:49] Find out more about Dawn and the work that she does via her website and social media.
[1:00:38] Shannon shares her key takeaways from this interview.
Links:
Gratitude to our Sponsors Schedulicity.
Quotes from this episode:
"I do believe that we always need to seek balance." - Dawn
"Balance is achievable, but it's a constant give-and-take for it." - Dawn
"It has to be systems over schedules and goals." - Dawn
"Allow yourself grace to find what works for you." - Dawn
"You are enough. Everything that you need is within you." - Dawn
"All of the things that we say we don't have time for - those are the things you need to make time for." - Dawn