247 - Building a Creative Life

Alignment--whether in yoga or in life--is not about straight lines, or a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead it's about finding the balance between structure and flow and exploring how each individual's experience and body shape their practice (and their life). In today's conversation, I delve into the significance of clear cues in teaching, the necessity of foundational knowledge, and the beauty of transitions in flow. I also talk about the teacher-student dynamic, the role of creativity in teaching, and discovering what lights you up.Weekly stories by email from Bonnie’s HERE Connect with Bonnie: Instagram, Email ([email protected]), WebsiteListen to Bonnie's other podcast Sexy Sunday HERE The music for this episode is Threads by The Light Meeting. Produced by: Grey Tanner

Today I'm sharing about a couple big experiences--my first time traveling overseas, and to teach Flow School in Switzerland!--and how those weave with a larger conversation about imposter syndrome, and what it means to grow as a teacher and human. I also explore the the significance of trust in teaching, how we cultivate inclusivity, balancing planning and play, and why creative sequencing and self-ownership matter in our leadership. Weekly stories by email from Bonnie’s HERE Connect with Bonnie: Instagram, Email ([email protected]), WebsiteListen to Bonnie's other podcast Sexy Sunday HERE The music for this episode is Threads by The Light Meeting. Produced by: Grey Tanner

In this conversation, we welcome Steph Alston and Rachel Brooks back to the podcast, and discuss the intricacies of studio ownership, focusing on the challenges, opportunities, and community aspects involved. We explore current problems in their businesses, the importance of grants and funding, sustainability in operations, and the significance of communication and connection within the studio environment. The discussion also touches on teaching styles, the role of experimentation in classes, and the journey of being a studio owner, emphasizing the need for collaboration and support.Connect on Instagram:Rachel, Seeking Space Yoga, and Yin Yoga SpaceSteph and Santosha Yoga CollectivePrevious episodes with these guests:Steph: episodes 236, 205, 227Rachel: episodes 236, 188Weekly stories by email from Bonnie’s HERE Connect with Bonnie: Instagram, Email ([email protected]), WebsiteListen to Bonnie's other podcast Sexy Sunday HERE The music for this episode is Threads by The Light Meeting. Produced by: Grey Tanner

The last several weeks have been so big. I'm back to the podcast after a hiatus, to share some of what I've been navigating--including immense grief and loss after the unexpected death of my mother. This season has been reminding me of the importance of kindness, and celebrating life and the complexity of emotions. And it's been reminding me that we are all fighting unseen battles. Weekly stories by email from Bonnie’s HERE Connect with Bonnie: Instagram, Email ([email protected]), WebsiteListen to Bonnie's other podcast Sexy Sunday HERE The music for this episode is Threads by The Light Meeting. Produced by: Grey Tanner

Life is good at surprising us and yet, as teachers and leaders, we're in positions of service, where we must show up for our students even when we're struggling. It can be complex to navigate the taking care of ourselves and others. So how can we balance the needs of our students while creating safe spaces for authenticity and vulnerability in our teaching? Do we always have to "have our shit together"? Today I talk about some of my own experiences in answers these and other questions. Weekly stories by email from Bonnie’s HERE Connect with Bonnie: Instagram, Email ([email protected]), WebsiteListen to Bonnie's other podcast Sexy Sunday HERE The music for this episode is Threads by The Light Meeting. Produced by: Grey Tanner

Last week I returned from hosting a co-ed retreat on the Oregon coast, that I called Celebrate Your Whole Damn Self. And it was beautiful and full of magic and play and deep connection. And it was an experience that was co-created. Today I talk about that, and of the power of creating spaces--where we can breathe, and be, and flow and celebrate more of who we are. And of the magic of coming together, where everyone gets to bring and share their gifts. And what can ripple outward.Weekly stories by email from Bonnie’s HERE Connect with Bonnie: Instagram, Email ([email protected]), WebsiteListen to Bonnie's other podcast Sexy Sunday HERE The music for this episode is Threads by The Light Meeting. Produced by: Grey Tanner

Entrepreneurship is a journey that involves challenges, successes, and continuous learning. And for aspiring entrepreneurs, there's so much to consider. Today, I share some of what I've learned and experienced in my first five years in business, including the importance of experimentation and trusting yourself, how I've found joy in the building process, and the role authenticity plays in long-term fulfillment. I also offer some questions for aspiring entrepreneurs.If you have questions for me, you're invited to add them here: Business Questions for BonnieWeekly stories by email from Bonnie’s HERE Connect with Bonnie: Instagram, Email ([email protected]), WebsiteListen to Bonnie's other podcast Sexy Sunday HERE The music for this episode is Threads by The Light Meeting. Produced by: Grey Tanner

Today I did something big and wild, that I've never done before, and it's got me thinking about the importance of trying new things, and their impacts on us as teachers and leaders. I wasn't in this experience alone. And it's also got me thinking about trust and support as we guide others. And about the importance of grounding and integration after trying something new. Weekly stories by email from Bonnie’s HERE Connect with Bonnie: Instagram, Email ([email protected]), WebsiteListen to Bonnie's other podcast Sexy Sunday HERE The music for this episode is Threads by The Light Meeting. Produced by: Grey Tanner

Today we're talking about amplifiers--meaning people, things, situations that help others grow, become bigger, or extend. I'm here to amplify others. And I'm here to create spaces that support amplification.  I think so much of that comes through being honest with ourselves, and being curious and brave, and owning our voices--because that creates space for others to do the same. Weekly stories by email from Bonnie’s HERE Connect with Bonnie: Instagram, Email ([email protected]), WebsiteListen to Bonnie's other podcast Sexy Sunday HERE The music for this episode is Threads by The Light Meeting. Produced by: Grey Tanner

I'm into doing things a little different and I'm also into people who are doing things in different ways. Kate McKenzie, of YTT Design Lab, helps yoga teachers design and refine their teacher training programs. She joins me today to talk about the intersection of yoga and business, creativity and trailblazing, and what it means to design meaningful learning experiences.  To connect with Kate: YTT Design Lab and InstagramWeekly stories by email from Bonnie’s HERE Connect with Bonnie: Instagram, Email ([email protected]), WebsiteListen to Bonnie's other podcast Sexy Sunday HERE The music for this episode is Threads by The Light Meeting. Produced by: Grey Tanner