The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast 383: Gift Certificate Policies & Questions with Shannon Crow   Description: What are the policies in your yoga business around gift certificates? If you don’t have them in place, this episode is the perfect starting point to get started thinking about creating some policies about gift certificates and more in your yoga business.   Shannon shares a question that was asked in the Connected Yoga Teacher Group on Facebook about gift certificates. A member asked about whether they should honor an expired gift certificate given out during a silent auction or offer an alternative that shows compassion for the buyer’s circumstances. Shannon shares the feedback on the post and what the original poster decided to do. She also invites us to consider the policies we have in place in our yoga business, not just about gift certificates but in other areas as well.   Shannon then shares a response she received on speaking up for social justice causes and other injustices. What can we do when it feels like our actions can’t make a difference? Tune in to be inspired by Shannon’s response.   Key Takeaways: [0:10] This episode touches on two topics - the importance of community and support, and gift certificate policies. [3:46]  Shannon gives a shout-out of thanks to sponsors, OfferingTree and two of Shannon's trainings focused on yoga for pelvic health. [6:17] Have you joined the Connected Yoga Teacher Facebook group yet? It is a wonderful and supportive community of over 12,000 members and yoga teachers from around the world! [7:13] Recently, a yoga teacher asked a question about policies around gift certificates and vouchers - holding a boundary around an expired voucher vs. offering a more compassionate alternative that benefits both parties. [11:24] Did you know that you can create gift cards and discount codes through OfferingTree? [13:23] It would be a great idea to review your policies about gift certificates before giving them out at a silent auction. Shannon shares what the original poster decided to do based on feedback from the community. [15:35] Some countries may have laws about expiration dates on gift certificates. It can be a good idea to consider some of the policies you have in place in your yoga business regarding gift certificates, as well as other areas. [18:15] Shannon shares a little about a response and a question that she received from a yoga teacher in a small rural community in the US about speaking up on social justice issues. [25:38] Keen to work with Shannon? Sign up for her email list to stay in the loop about her latest coaching offerings. Links: The Connected Yoga Teacher Facebook Group Gift Certificate for Silent Auction Facebook Post Question About Non-expiring Gift Certificates Facebook Group The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 254: Must-Have Legal Agreements with Erika Kullberg The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 382: Having Tough Conversations with Rebecca Sebastian Anti-Oppression, Inclusion and Accessibility in Yoga (Podcasts & Articles) Resource  The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Team Shannon Crow on Instagram Gratitude to our Sponsors, OfferingTree, and Yoga for Pelvic Health 20-hr Online Training with Shannon Crow.   Quotes from this episode: "It would be so great to really review policies about gift certificates before giving them out."   "We can't think of every policy that we'll have for everything in our business, but we might want to consider some of the policies."   "What is the work that you're doing and is it helping the community in some way?"   "As a collective, just like the aster flowers, we can make a tremendous difference together."  

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast 382: Having Tough Conversations with Rebecca Sebastian   Description: Many yoga teachers are trying to navigate having tough conversations with their colleagues, friends, and families about many issues going on in the world today - from the genocide in Palestine to racism, from misogyny to cultural appropriation, and much more. These conversations are difficult but so important. Rebecca Sebastian joins Shannon Crow in this episode to discuss having tough conversations.   Rebecca Sebastian is a long-time yoga teacher and 11-year yoga therapist. She owns an accessible and inclusivity-focused yoga studio and apothecary in Davenport, Iowa, called Sunlight Yoga + Apothecary, and is the host of the Working In Yoga Podcast. Rebecca is a passionate writer on yoga topics and she participates and loves all things yoga and the yoga industry. She believes that through writing and communication, we can all lift each other up and share what lights us up with the world.    This episode came about because of a hard conversation between Rebecca and Shannon as friends when they realized that they were on the same journey but not on the same page about some things. They decided to share what it’s like to have difficult conversations with people you care about and are in relationship with, and how they have been navigating these chats. If you have been struggling with having tough conversations with people around you, you are not alone.   Key Takeaways: [3:00] Shannon gives a shout out to the sponsors - OfferingTree and Shannon's 20-hour Yoga for Pelvic Health Training. [4:56] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Rebecca Sebastian. This episode is more of a conversation between friends talking about what it's like to have hard conversations with each other than a typical podcast episode. [16:25] Rebecca invites us to give ourselves (and our former selves) and each other grace when having difficult conversations. [18:29] There are many different issues that yoga teachers could be having tough conversations about these days. Does this belong in yoga? [25:53] What are Rebecca's thoughts on yoga teachers who don't want to talk about "politics" in their classes? Shannon and Rebecca discuss the importance of consent in having hard conversations. [30:19] How should/can yoga teachers respond when yoga students bring tough conversations into yoga spaces? [36:38] Rebecca and Shannon discuss holding space for tough conversations and how they react when there are differences in fundamental beliefs or their moral compasses. [40:20] Shannon reflects on how she is reacting to witnessing the genocide in Palestine, which can feel like "too much" for some people. Rebecca shares her perspective. [46:08] It can be difficult to know how to respond when people who care about you give you unhelpful "advice". [48:58] Shannon pops in to share a message about OfferingTree. [51:27] Shannon and Rebecca diverge in their opinions about how they show up for the issues that matter on social media. [56:20] What has Shannon's experience on social media been like since October 7th? [61:20] Rebecca and Shannon discuss the shaming and "infighting" that tends to occur in social justice spaces. [64:53] What are some actions that are effective in supporting the causes we care about, like Palestine? [68:26] Rebecca talks about protesting as a strategy to effect change. [72:13 - 72:17] "I feel like we can struggle and care at the same time." [74:06] Shannon and Rebecca talk about the fact that many people are simply unaware of what is happening in Gaza and Palestine, but also that some people choose not to see it. [77:15] When it comes to difficult conversations, there are a lot of things to consider. What is Rebecca's advice to people who want to do the hard work but don't know where to start? [83:24] Shannon reflects on her biggest takeaways from this conversation with Rebecca. Links: Rebecca Sebastian Rebecca Sebastian on Instagram The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 312: We Stand with Survivors with Rebecca Sebastian & Colin Hall The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 304: How Are We Still here? with Rebecca Sebastian The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 297: Yoga Philosophy & Business with Rebecca Sebastian The Future Of Yoga Therapy on Facebook (Facebook Post) The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 356: How Silence Feels for a Yoga Student with Suzanne Miller The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 375: Why Marketing is Different Now with Tristan Katz & Brooke Monaghan Values as Luxury Goods and Political Polarization Do Politics Belong in Yoga? by Naomi Gottlieb-Miller on Substack The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 361: Connect to Nature & Your Roots with Tracee Stanley  Eyes of Gaza by Plestia Alaqad (Pre-Order) Anti-Oppression, Inclusion and Accessibility in Yoga (Podcasts & Articles) Resource  The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Team Shannon Crow on Instagram The Connected Yoga Teacher Facebook Group Gratitude to our Sponsors, OfferingTree, and Yoga for Pelvic Health 20-hr Online Training with Shannon Crow.   Quotes from this episode: "I think we learn a lot from private conversations through friends about tough things." - Shannon   "After those [tough] conversations you're like, wow, our friendship is way stronger, but on the flip side of it, when it starts to go sideways, it also can mean the end of a friendship." - Shannon   "One of the best things about being able to have hard conversations with friends is that if you truly have respect [and a] friendship connection, the stakes feel a little bit lower because you ... can practice having hard conversations with people who are gonna be still in relationship with you at the end of those hard conversations." - Rebecca   "To have conversations that are difficult, all parties should consent to that conversation." - Rebecca   "How do we hold space for difficult conversations if we don't want to be in them?" - Rebecca   "Every change is a long game. It is always a long game." - Rebecca   "I also know that I show up for the work in my own community and that's my priority." - Rebecca   "I can't care about everything, I can't. Otherwise I'm not gonna show up for the things that matter to me." - Rebecca

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast 381: Making Yoga More Inclusive with Billie Smith   Description: How can we make yoga more inclusive? How do we make movement more accessible by adopting a different approach to yoga poses instead of a one-size-fits-all approach? What does it mean to teach in an anti-diet, queer-affirming way? Billie Smith shares their insights.   Billie is a queer yoga/movement teacher, trauma/abuse/ED survivor who is disrupting the norm and going against the grain. They are dedicated to eliminating diet-culture, spiritual-bypassing and other excluding narratives from the yoga spaces they create, and helping their students learn to check in with how they feel instead of how they look. Through group classes, one-on-one sessions, and workshops, Billie leads with an open heart and strives to hold safe, inclusive space for folks seeking to move their bodies for emotional health, increase mobility and strength, and feel good in their body for longer.   In this episode, Billie shares how they ended up doing work to combat diet culture messages and how they help people start checking in and listening to their bodies. They also share deep insights about letting go of control as teachers and how we can better empower our students to make the decisions that are best for them and their bodies in the moment. Billie also shares some tips on how we can create more inclusive yoga spaces and reflects on how social justice ties in with yoga.    Key Takeaways: [0:07] Shannon briefly shares why she is so excited about this podcast! [3:53] Shannon gives a shout-out to the sponsors, OfferingTree and Shannon's 20-hour Yoga for Pelvic Health Training. [6:02] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Billie Smith. [12:59] What does Billie do and who do they do it for? [16:27] What led Billie to start on this journey of making sure their yoga spaces are inclusive and against diet culture? [21:33] Shannon and Billie discuss the common perception in yoga classes that the teacher knows the student's body better than they do. [24:12] One thing we can do as teachers is really reflect on what is the goal of each pose, and consider how else we can achieve the same benefits without the pose having to look a certain way. [26:49] Why is it such a gift when a student approaches a teacher thinking that the teacher knows more, but the teacher uses the opportunity to invite the student into a moment of self-inquiry? [30:49] Sometimes, we may have trouble letting go of control of what our students should be doing in our classes. What is Billie's advice to the teacher who may feel upset that a student is not following their lead? [36:58] Shannon pops in with a message of thanks for OfferingTree. [39:14] How can we make our classes more inclusive and accessible even if we don't have the lived experience? [46:48] What are Billie's thoughts that anything to do with social justice is out of our scope of practice as yoga teachers? [51:19] Get in touch with Billie via their website or check out their podcast, Rebel Movement Podcast. [54:13] Shannon shares her key takeaways from this episode. [56:48] What's next on the podcast? Links: Billie Smith, Move with Billie Rebel Movement Podcast with Billie Smith Billie Smith on Instagram Move with Billie - Anti-diet Workshop Instagram Post by Billie Smith: 4 Diet culture messages in yoga and movement, and how to reframe them The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 265: Teach LGBTQIA+ Inclusive Yoga with Gabi Parkham The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 199: Creating Inclusive Yoga Spaces Erin Ajayi The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 108: Inclusive Language for Prenatal Yoga with Shannon Crow Anti-Oppression, Inclusion and Accessibility in Yoga (Podcasts & Articles) Resource  The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 369: Struggling to Write Content is Normal with Billie Smith The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 307: Taking Diet-Culture Out of Ayurveda with Diane Finlayson  The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 292: Taking Diet Culture out of Yoga with Jessica Grosman & Elyssa Toomey Rainbow Registered (Canada) Aubrey Gordon - Maintenance PHase The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 284: Beyond Pronouns and Pride Month with Shannon Crow - The Connected Yoga Teacher The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 219: Yoga for Abundant Bodies with Dianne Bondy The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Team Shannon Crow on Instagram The Connected Yoga Teacher Facebook Group Gratitude to our Sponsors, OfferingTree, and Yoga for Pelvic Health 20-hr Online Training with Shannon Crow.   Quotes from this episode: "The more I learned, the more I didn't want to go back to teaching in ways that I learned were not feeling very inclusive."   "There are so many ways of adjusting how we approach postures that are not blaming the body for things that the body didn't do wrong."   "If you think of it more of as an experiment, it's giving the student the power to make the choices about what feels best. It's sending the message that there's nothing wrong with their body. And it's also not a big deal if the posture is not fitting."   "The thing that's gonna make the most impact is the actions rather than the words."

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast 380: Yoga for Stress Management with Radhika Mukhija   Description: We all live incredibly stressful lives, dealing with pressure from work, families, friends, and the political climate, on top of multiple crises around the world. It can all add up and leave us feeling stressed, burned out, exhausted, and overwhelmed. How can yoga and Ayurveda help us manage this stress?   Radhika Mukhija is the founder of Holistic Prana. For over a decade, she has guided women on a regenerative journey to wellness, helping them connect with their innate wisdom, embody their true selves, and create fulfilling lives. With experience in health, life, and executive coaching, Radhika merges ancient and modern science to create a holistic approach that blends ancient wisdom with clinical sensibilities, including neuroscience and biohacking.   Radhika shares how her mother’s cancer diagnosis inspired her to embark on this journey. She explains how she defines stress, the symptoms of chronic stress, and how yoga and Ayurveda can be useful tools to alleviate this stress. Shannon and Radhika also discuss creating consistent routines and rituals to nurture ourselves, finding balance, the role food plays in our well-being, dealing with “un-yogic” feelings like rage and frustration, and more.   Key Takeaways: [0:21] Shannon shares something she recently re-learned. [3:51] Shannon gives a shout-out to the sponsors, OfferingTree and Shannon's 20-hour Yoga for Pelvic Health Training. [7:20] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Radhika Mukhija. [11:07] What does Radhika do and who does she do it for? [11:50] What got Radhika started in doing this work? [16:23] There are many different types of stress we experience. How does Radhika define stress? [20:03] How does stress manifest or show up? What are the signs we might be experiencing chronic stress? [22:49] How can we balance everything that is going on in the world - social justice movements, the after-effects of the pandemic, bearing witness to a genocide - on top of all the stresses of daily life? [28:11] What are some of the practices that Radhika shares to help people return to a place of restoration, peace, and balance? [32:29] Shannon pops in with a quick note about creating memberships and how OfferingTree can support you in that! [35:10] How can we distinguish between unplugging or going inward as a form of self-care to be able to be effective out in the world, versus something that is just ignoring things that are stressful? [48:04] How does Radhika introduce new practices to people knowing that they need to check in with themselves about what they need and people often don't like to be told what to do? [53:14] Connect with Radhika via Instagram or learn more from her via her courses and upcoming book! [58:07] Shannon shares her biggest takeaways from this conversation with Radhika. [64:18] Join the Facebook group to become part of a supportive community of yoga teachers and do leave a review for the podcast too! [65:39] Shannon shares a message from a podcast listener. Links: Radhika Mukhija Radhika Mukhija on Instagram Practical Embodiment - Self-Paced Online Seasonal Living Course The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 360: Nature Meditations with Ray Zott Ray Zott’s Website Ray Zott on Instagram The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 309: Four Seasons of Business with Shannon Crow Eating Disorders Education and Anti-Diet Podcasts 048: Eating Disorder Education for Yoga Teachers with Tabitha Farrar  348: Yoga for Eating Disorder Recovery with Abbey Morris  218: Body Positive Yoga with Gillian McCollum 293: Eating Disorder Recovery & Yoga with Vivian Selles 338: Eating Disorder Informed Yoga with Jennifer Kreatsoulas 292: Taking Diet Culture out of Yoga with Jessica Grosman & Elyssa Toomey 067: Yoga for Every Body with Amber Karnes 219: Yoga for Abundant Bodies with Dianne Bondy The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 369: Struggling to Write Content is Normal with Billie Smith Move with Billie - Anti-diet Workshop The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 375: Why Marketing is Different Now with Tristan Katz & Brooke Monaghan The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 376: Collective Care Over Individualistic Self-Care with Muna Shakour The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 377: Cultivating Contentment with Mary Flaherty The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Team Guest Speakers in Pelvic Health Professionals Shannon Crow on Instagram The Connected Yoga Teacher Facebook Group Pelvic Health Professionals   Gratitude to our Sponsors, OfferingTree, and Yoga for Pelvic Health 20-hr Online Training with Shannon Crow.   Quotes from this episode: "There's good stress and bad stress."   "How do we just shut the noise of what people are telling us to do or what the books are asking us to do and how do we really get in tune with our inner wisdom?"   "How do we balance all of this? We need to begin with ourselves and what we can control... it has to come from a place where we, not just our body, but our mind is in a state of balance and homeostasis."

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast 379: Chakras with Indu Arora   Description: Chakras are a part of yoga, but a lot of us in the yoga world are not familiar with it. We may feel uncomfortable discussing chakras or may have a very limited understanding. In this episode, Indu Arora shares her expertise and insights about chakras.   Indu Arora is the founder and Director of Yog Sadhna. She is a yoga and Ayurveda teacher, mentor, and author, based out of the USA. Indu has been sharing simple, effective, practical, and grounded ways of living life through Yoga, Yoga Therapy, Meditation, and Ayurveda since 1999. She also offers in-person and virtual training sessions that focus on a holistic approach where body and mind are integrated with the inner Self.   Indu explains what chakras are, how they are related to yoga, the different texts in the yoga tradition that talk about chakras, and how we can access this information. Indu also clears up some common misconceptions about the chakras, and shares her personal experience in learning about and experiencing chakras. If you feel like teaching chakras is challenging, Indu has some tips on how we can make chakras more accessible and beginner-friendly, and so much more.   Key Takeaways: [3:10] Shannon gives a shout-out to sponsors, OfferingTree and Shannon's 20-hour Yoga for Pelvic Health Training. [5:35] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Indu Arora. [9:06] How should we pronounce the word "chakras"? [9:58] What are chakras? [13:26] Indu explains a little bit more about where the idea of color and qualities of chakras comes from. [18:42] What are some texts to learn more about chakras? [25:50] How would Indu explain chakras to someone completely new to the idea? [30:21] Shannon pops in to share some big news from OfferingTree. [32:28] Shannon and Indu discuss why teaching or sharing about the chakras can feel like a challenge. Indu explains another way to visualize the chakras. [41:18] How has learning about or experiencing chakras impacted Indu's life and yoga practice? [51:39] Learn more from Indu on her Instagram, her website, and her trainings. [55:55] Shannon shares her biggest takeaways from this episode. [57:35] Hang out with Shannon in real-time in Pelvic Health Professionals. [58:55] Shannon gives a personal update about an incident that occurred a few weeks ago.   Links: Indu Arora Indu Arora on Instagram Indu Arora's Resource Library Laya Yoga of Chakras  Upcoming Trainings with Indu Arora The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 288: Shavasana (śavāsana) with Indu Arora The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 377: Cultivating Contentment with Mary Flaherty Facebook Post by Shannon Crow about sharing misinformation Guest Speakers in Pelvic Health Professionals Shannon Crow on Instagram The Connected Yoga Teacher Facebook Group Pelvic Health Professionals   Gratitude to our Sponsors, OfferingTree, and Yoga for Pelvic Health 20-hr Online Training with Shannon Crow.   Quotes from this episode: "Because what happens is when we learn one thing a certain way, we also get fixated by that certain way."   "Don't use knowledge just for verbal karate. Let there be a reason you have learned things a certain way."   "It's so important... to keep our mind open that there is more and we don't need to know everything that is more, but we need to keep space for more."   "One of the most important teachings in yoga is vairagya, let go, detach. So you have to have the courage to let go because there is more."   "The goal of yoga is yoga. Let's not forget that."

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast 378: Embodied Leadership with Sumaya K. Owens   Description: Being a leader is challenging. From making tough decisions to guiding others, it demands a lot from us and it can be difficult to make the right choices. As yoga teachers, how can we ethically show up as leaders while also being aware of our own power and privilege? Sumaya K. Owens shares their insights.   Sumaya K. Owens is the founder of Present Moment Media where they help uplift the voices of changemakers by using content marketing as a tool for social & cultural impact. Sumaya has nearly 20 years of professional experience in the health and wellness field and is a trauma-informed yoga teacher and ayurvedic health coach. They currently teach weekly virtual yoga classes for Burmese students living in a military coup in Bago, Myanmar, as well as offer workshops, trainings, and retreats on mindfulness, stress management, and trauma-informed practices for business and nonprofit leaders. As a community leader, Sumaya serves as the DEI Co-Chai for the local chapter of AIGA Asheville, and the lead organizer for the Embodied Leadership Meetup in Asheville.   In this episode, Sumaya explains what embodied leadership means, why it is so important for leaders to check in with their bodies when making decisions, and some tools to integrate this into our leadership playbooks. Sumaya also talks about how to show up for hard conversations and how to balance speaking up for causes we care about while being mindful of the impact we have on our followers and students. Shannon and Sumaya also discuss the need for a supportive community and community care, particularly in these divisive and polarizing times.   Key Takeaways: [3:16] Shannon gives a shout out of thanks to sponsors OfferingTree and Pelvic Health Professionals. [5:52] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Sumaya K. Owens. [8:05] What does Sumaya do and who do they do it for? [9:13] How did Sumaya get into their line of work? [11:00] What does embodied leadership mean? [12:22] Working in the health and wellness space doesn't necessarily mean that the job is relaxing or stress-free. Sumaya explains why it is important for leaders to check in with their physical bodies when making big decisions. [17:09] What advice does Sumaya have for leaders who might feel like they are struggling to be embodied leaders? [20:25] What does it mean to have privilege and power? [24:01] What defines a leader? [25:52] Shannon reflects that the yoga world has been largely silent in the face of many injustices happening around the world, most noticeably with regards to Palestine. What are Sumaya's thoughts on this?  [31:40] We may not be able to stay up to date with all the injustices and news events that are taking place around the world, but we can hold space for one another with compassion and love. [34:43] How can yoga teachers balance wanting to keep their posts on social media positive and helpful, while still sharing about causes they care about that may be triggering or upsetting to others? [39:03] Shannon pops in to share some exciting news from OfferingTree. [41:26] What is lacking in the conversation around embodied leadership in the yoga world? [46:21] What are some of Sumaya's favorite resources to learn about nonviolent communication? [48:40] What advice does Sumaya have for yoga teachers who may be thinking about starting a support group for other yoga teachers and entrepreneurs in their area to learn about and practice embodied leadership? [51:32] How can we get into a more embodied state when it comes to making big decisions in our businesses?\ [55:12] Find out more about Sumaya and their work on social media and join their Facebook group. [59:05] Sumaya shares a few concluding thoughts about community care. [61:07] Shannon shares her biggest takeaways from this conversation with Sumaya. [62:40] Shannon talks about some of the guest expert calls in Pelvic Health Professionals   Links: Sumaya K. Owens, Present Moment Media Sumaya K. Owens on Instagram and Facebook Holistic Digital Marketing Strategies Facebook Group The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 376: Collective Care Over Individualistic Self-Care with Muna Shakour The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 266: Social Location, Power & Privilege with Raudhah Rahman The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 362: Yoga in Times of War & Violence with Molly Nixon The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 100: Cultivating a Community of Professional Peers with Linda Sparrowe 310: How To Create a Yoga Routine with Shannon The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode Crow Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life, by Marshall Rosenberg The Art of Communicating by Thich Nhat Hanh Guest Speakers in Pelvic Health Professionals Shannon Crow on Instagram The Connected Yoga Teacher Facebook Group Pelvic Health Professionals   Gratitude to our Sponsors, OfferingTree, Summer Biz Camp, and Pelvic Health Professionals.   Quotes from this episode: "Embodied leadership is the practice of turning your attention towards the physical body and sensations while in a position of power or privilege."   "As a leader, I am in a position of power. I am in a position of privilege and it is my responsibility to be incredibly aware of how I'm using that for the benefit of others."   "Every yoga teacher is a leader. ... The whole context of being a teacher means that your students are looking to you for guidance, they're looking to you for support, and that puts you in a position of power."   "As embodied leaders, it's also a responsibility to show up in the community and be calm and compassionate and caring, human beings who take care of each other and know how to have hard conversations without lashing out at each other, without blaming each other."   "What feels really important to me is that as yoga teachers and as leaders that we have values and that we know what they are and that we stand up for what we believe in and especially if it's something that's really aligned with our brand or our organization, our vision for the business or nonprofit that we run."   "One of the best things that we can do as leaders is know when we don't have all the answers and ask for help because that means we'll be more effective in the work that we're doing."  

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast 377: Cultivating Contentment with Mary Flaherty   Description: Amid so many negative things currently happening in the world, it can feel challenging to remain positive and be content with ourselves and our lives. How do we cultivate contentment? Is it possible? Is it important? What are some scientifically proven strategies we can adopt to navigate the ups and downs of life? Mary Flaherty shares more.   Mary Flaherty has over 30 years of experience as a psychologist and is a highly experienced university lecturer and curriculum developer. She has worked in Australia, Japan, Ireland, and the U.K and is also a researcher with published findings reported in TIME magazine. Her specific fields of interest include positive psychology, sleep, stress and anxiety management, meditation/mindfulness, and yoga. Mary has also been a yoga teacher for over 20 years.   In this episode, Mary shares more about her background, why she started studying contentment, and how it is different from happiness. She also talks about her new book "Keys to Contentment - from Science, Monks and My Mother", sharing practical tips about how to be content and manage challenging situations. Mary explains some aspects of how the brain works that might help us when life is hard and highlights why being positive is so important.    Key Takeaways: [2:30] Stand a chance to win one of two copies of Mary Flaherty's book in this episode's giveaway! [3:40] Shannon gives a shout-out of thanks to sponsors OfferingTree and Pelvic Health Professionals. [5:42] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Mary Flaherty. [10:18] What inspired Mary to write a book about contentment and the science behind it? [13:47] Why did Mary decide to include her mother in talking about the keys to contentment? [21:53] What are some scientifically proven strategies that help with contentment? [35:53] Shannon pops in with a message about OfferingTree. [37:56] How do we find Santosha in these challenging times we are living through? How do we balance being positive and grateful while holding space for what's happening to others around us? [42:20] Mary highlights why it is so important for us to become aware of our cognitive biases. [46:00] What is our role as yoga teachers when our students share with us the struggles they are facing? [52:54] What are some other things Mary hopes people would know about leading a more contented life? [63:03] Shannon and Mary discuss how useful it can be to slow down and notice the details of life. [65:08] Get your copy of Mary's book on Amazon, Kindle, Audible, and iTunes. Connect with her on Instagram as well. [66:08] What is one small thing you can try if you feel like you are far from reaching contentment? [67:16] Shannon reflects on her conversation with Mary. [71:22] Shannon shares about some of the guest expert calls available in Pelvic Health Professionals. [74:05] Shannon relates an experience she had recently that has been weighing on her.   Links: Mary Flaherty on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn Keys to a Contented Life: From Science, Monks & My Mother, by Dr. Mary Flaherty The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 258: What Does Science Say About Yoga? with Mary Flaherty The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 123: Habits for Health & Business with James Clear 311: A Small Seed of Personal Practice with Shannon The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode Crow 310: How To Create a Yoga Routine with Shannon The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode Crow Canada Land Podcast The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 376: Collective Care Over Individualistic Self-Care with Muna Shakour Ashley Oliver (@YogaAndMahogany on Instagram) Guest Speakers in Pelvic Health Professionals Shannon Crow on Instagram The Connected Yoga Teacher Facebook Group Pelvic Health Professionals   Gratitude to our Sponsors, OfferingTree, Summer Biz Camp, and Pelvic Health Professionals.   Quotes from this episode: "Contentment really is the idea of internal balance."   "Contentment is sustainable again through the storms of life, it endures in difficulty."   "Nurture those social connections because they really will help us to be more content, to be less anxious, to be happier."   "The only way we can counteract cruelty is not with cruelty. It's with care."   "Yoga is a wonderful tool, especially when life offers us very challenging circumstances."  

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast 376: Collective Care Over Individualistic Self-Care with Muna Shakour   Description: The massacre and genocide of Palestinians in Gaza have been going on for months now, and other genocide emergencies are simultaneously taking place around the world. Yet, many (especially in the health and wellness industry), still refuse to speak up, choosing instead to prioritize their safety and comfort over the need for liberation and freedom for all oppressed people. Muna Shakour shares her perspective as a Palestinian with family in the West Bank about shifting from focusing on self-care to looking at collective care.   Muna Shakour is a personal development coach who accidentally became an activist after the events in Gaza started. Her coaching practice has evolved over the years, from a Parenting Coach for parents of children 8 years and younger to coaching small business owners and coaches on how to grow their businesses and personal brands online to attract their ideal clients. Muna also offers corporate training focused on self-reflection and developing soft skills for leadership. Since October 7, Muna has been actively speaking out against the atrocities happening in Gaza and Palestine, sharing information and drawing attention to the situation there.   Muna talks about her work before October 7, 2023 and how she gets nervous about talking about her “work” now. She highlights the relationship we have with all people, the earth, and all creatures, and why we need to focus on caring for the collective “we” instead of focusing solely on self-care for “me”. Muna shares very honestly about the emotions she is experiencing and how that influences her decisions in who to connect with, hire, and support. She also offers some suggestions about how to navigate working for a company that won’t allow you to speak up and how to continue running your online business alongside speaking up for peace and justice.   Key Takeaways: [3:29] Shannon gives a shout-out of thanks to sponsors OfferingTree and Pelvic Health Professionals. [6:02] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Muna Shakour. [10:35] What does Muna do and who does she do it for? She shares more about her professional journey and how she "accidentally" became an activist. [21:04] Shannon and Muna discuss what it has been like for them to encounter people in the wellness world who say they don't have the capacity to care about everything, especially when they have been increasingly involved in social justice movements in the past few years. [28:35] A lot of us have been feeling a lot of anger and grief. We need to find productive ways to channel that energy. [31:23] How can we be more careful with who we choose to work with and where we give our money to ensure that our values are aligned? [37:48] Shannon pops in to share a little bit about OfferingTree. [40:06] What are Muna's thoughts on when someone says something online that is harmful or hurtful, but it's because they still have some learning to do? [44:39] Muna shares a little about what it's like being a Palestinian and having to avoid mentioning her identity for various reasons. [47:09] We can use our privilege to start speaking up about Palestine and exercise our empathy to imagine what must be like for Palestinians. [53:19] In the health and wellness space, a lot of people try hard not to post political things. Shannon and Muna discuss how they're changing people's minds about this stance. [58:11] Muna shares her dream of people mobilizing en masse to demand change. [63:33] Palestine has become a measure of what we will stand for and what we will not allow. [66:44] What would Muna say to a yoga teacher who has not spoken up till now and is wondering how to do so now? [73:33] We have to speak out even louder because we have privilege and clout that others don't. [80:40] Shannon shares some of her reflections from this conversation with Muna. [81:59] Shannon talks about some of the upcoming events in Pelvic Health Professionals and upcoming episodes of the podcast.   Links: Muna Shakour Muna Shakour on Instagram Gabor Mate Teal Swan Guest Speakers in Pelvic Health Professionals Shannon Crow on Instagram The Connected Yoga Teacher Facebook Group Pelvic Health Professionals   Gratitude to our Sponsors, OfferingTree, Summer Biz Camp, and Pelvic Health Professionals.   Quotes from this episode: "Because the focus was so much on the self, we lost that feeling of community and the good of the collective versus the individual."   "There's always a relationship between us and nature and the universe and earth and the world and people."   "This is the future. The future is you're not following just for the advice. You're following the person, their personal brand, of course, with all of the marketing, but the values of this person and it needs to shine through."   "I imagine if I'm a mom there, how would I want people on the outside to be?"   "My personal opinion is you can still do work and talk about Palestine and they can even both be done at the same time."   "What will you stand for and what will you not allow?"   "This whole idea of the separateness is what's hurting us all. We have to remember that we are connected and relationships are the most important thing."  

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast 375: Why Marketing is Different Now with Tristan Katz & Brooke Monaghan   Description: How do we market our work in times of collective distress and unrest? How can we show up for our business, our audience, and ourselves in a way that is aligned with our values? Two incredible entrepreneurs in the online space share more about how to navigate being a business owner in our current context - Brooke Monaghan and Tristan Katz.   Brooke Monaghan is the founder of Fruition Growth Network, a collaborative platform providing accessible, quality support to self-employed folks and bringing people together to find power in community. Brooke acts as a trusted advisor to founders and leaders who value impact, integrity, and relationships and are on a mission to set things straight in their industry. Her work focuses on the intersection of wellbeing and bottom line, guiding do-gooder lifestyle business owners to intentionally design profitable businesses around their values and their desired lifestyle.   Tristan Katz is a writer, educator, digital strategist, and equity-inclusion facilitator. They specialize in content marketing strategies for justice-focused leaders and queer-trans Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Belonging (DEIB) training and consulting. Tristan’s intention is to share this work with an anti-oppression and intersectional lens. Tristan was named one of Yoga Journal’s 2021 Game Changers and he is proud to have spent several years serving on the Board of Directors at Accessible Yoga before the non-profit dissolved in early 2024.   Brooke and Tristan explain how marketing has changed since the early days of online business and why values matter so much to customers now. They also address using AI in marketing, how to change our strategies when it comes to marketing, and why following a cookie-cutter marketing plan probably isn’t going to work for your yoga business – as well as what you can do instead.   Key Takeaways: [3:04] Shannon gives a shout-out of thanks to sponsors OfferingTree, Summer Biz Camp, and Pelvic Health Professionals. [7:05] Shannon introduces her guests for this episode - Tristan Katz and Brooke Monaghan. [10:54] What do Tristan and Brooke do and who do they do it for? [14:44] Tristan and Brooke have a podcast together - be sure to check out Reimagining Online Business. [15:58] A lot of yoga teachers are feeling like they don't know how to market to students in the current environment. Brooke shares some of the trends in marketing in 2024. [20:44] Tristan reflects on how new the internet is in the human experience and how that influences and impacts us as business owners and humans. [28:06] Brooke explains that many of us in the online business space have lost sight of doing business with people. Strategies that work for more established business owners may not work for us. [31:50] Tristan contextualizes Brooke's perspective for how it could apply to yoga teachers. [36:00] Shannon pops in with a message about OfferingTree. [37:46] What are some ways to really connect with people in our audience? Brooke suggests experimenting with being real with your audience and tuning into your intuition. [42:02] Tristan brings up the fact that all businesses are struggling right now, and marketing to people is simply not as easy as it used to be. [45:51] It's a lot easier to be consistent when you're not trying to force yourself to do it the right way and you're allowing yourself to show up and be real. [46:47] We can pay attention to trends, but in a loose, non-attached way, and instead try to make them our own or put our own spin on them. [48:31] Shannon and Brooke reflect on how they feel being marketed to, as consumers. [49:49] Tristan highlights how important it is now for yoga teachers to find their niche - find what really sets them apart from others [52:47] Shannon talks about how she is showing up in her business, talking both about topics related to running a yoga business but also what is currently going on in the world. [54:09] Marketing assets can be useful, but we also need content that has a finger on the pulse on how your audience is feeling or what they are experiencing.. [56:01] What advice do Brooke and Tristan have for yoga teachers when it feels like they just can't show up? [62:00] Don't gaslight yourself into thinking you should figure out a way to do something when you don't have the capacity to do it or have the money to invest. [64:46] Learn more about how to repurpose content and get access to other trainings and workshops on the Fruition Growth Network. [65:57] When people are trying to sell you strategies or pathways to success, we have to be discerning. [70:14] Brooke and Tristan share some final closing thoughts. [72:12] Shannon shares her reflections from this conversation with Brooke and Tristan. [80:13] Shannon talks about the latest call in the Pelvic Health Professionals membership site that you can listen to and some upcoming calls.   Links: Brooke Monaghan Brooke Monaghan on Instagram Tristan Katz Tristan Katz on Instagram Reimagining Online Business Podcast by Brooke Monaghan and Tristan Katz Michelle Cassandra Johnson Fruition Growth Network Summer Biz Camp Guest Speakers in Pelvic Health Professionals Shannon Crow on Instagram The Connected Yoga Teacher Facebook Group Pelvic Health Professionals   Gratitude to our Sponsors, OfferingTree, Summer Biz Camp, and Pelvic Health Professionals.   Quotes from this episode: "Consumers right now are looking to see companies' values to make their buying decisions." - Brooke   "For those of us who are values-led business owners, right now is an opportunity to lead with that more than ever." - Brooke   "We have to overcome the fear of speaking because we have to show up as humans in our work to reach humans who are tired of the internet." - Tristan   "The most strategic thing that you can do right now is think critically about who your people are." - Brooke   "If I'm grieving and angry or whatever it is, I'm sure other people are probably too. How can we bring that approach into our businesses and our marketing?" - Tristan   "We are in a moment of experimentation and trying to figure things out." - Brooke   "It's a lot easier to be consistent when you're not trying to force yourself to do it the right way and you're allowing yourself to show up and be real." - Brooke   "What I'm saying is we do need marketing assets. We also need so much more than marketing assets." - Tristan  

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast 374: Teaching Yoga to Busy Parents with Naomi Gottlieb-Miller   Description: How can busy parents find time for yoga in the midst of all the things they are juggling? How can yoga teachers make yoga more accessible to parents who are facing time scarcity? Naomi Gottlieb-Miller shares how her yoga practice changed when she became a parent and how she now uses this knowledge to share yoga with other parents.   Naomi is a mover, a maker, and a mom of 3 kids. She has been teaching yoga and movement since 2005 and is known for classes that are creative, playful, and strong. Naomi specializes in teaching short classes that pack a punch, making sure you can easily squeeze your daily movement into whatever pockets in your day you happen to have. On her website, Naomi offers classes that are 5 to 30 minutes to ensure busy parents (and anyone else short of time) can incorporate movement into their day, no matter what.   Naomi opens up about how her yoga practice changed drastically when she became a parent, and how that inspired her to teach much shorter classes online which can be just as good or even better than longer yoga classes! She shares how she has found success in her yoga business offering shorter classes, and highlights the importance of removing barriers that keep people from coming to yoga. Shannon and Naomi also discuss how we don’t all have the same amount of time, the high expectations we put on ourselves as parents and as yoga teachers, the double standards society sometimes puts on parents, and more.   Whether you are a parent who struggles to find time for your movement practice on top of your hectic schedule or you work with parents who tell you they don’t have time for yoga, this is a great episode.   Key Takeaways: [0:37] Shannon introduces the topic for this episode - yoga and parenthood. [3:43] This episode is sponsored by OfferingTree, Summer Biz Camp, and Pelvic Health Professionals. [7:20] Claire Holloway, a member of Pelvic Health Professionals, shares a little about her experience in the membership. [10:11] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Naomi Gottlieb-Miller. [12:26] What does Naomi do and who does she do it for? [18:15] Shannon reflects on her own parenting journey and how time felt scarce for her when her children were young. [20:42] It can be hard for moms or parents to shake off societal expectations. [26:39] What is Naomi's advice to yoga teachers who are struggling to find time for their own practice, and what can that self-practice look like? [32:21] Naomi offers a 5-minute practice for an entire month. [34:06] Taking away expectations and limiting your daily practice can make it feel more accessible. [34:38] Shannon pops in to share a little about OfferingTree. [36:09] What is one thing a busy parent or parent with an overstimulated nervous system could do to get started? [40:04] What are some of Naomi's recommendations for people who are feeling low on energy and need motivation? [46:07] How does Naomi charge for her classes, considering that they are relatively short? [49:13] Naomi highlights that longer classes can be a barrier for many parents who simply don't have the time or resources to make that commitment. [52:21] Shannon and Naomi discuss why people might feel hesitant about shorter classes. [58:28] Get in touch with Naomi and learn more from her via her website and social media channels. [59:32] Shannon reflects on how Naomi has been showing up and speaking up for peace in these difficult times, and her own process of dealing with grief after witnessing horrific news from Gaza. [66:14] Shannon shares some details of upcoming calls inside Pelvic Health Professionals.   Links: Naomi Gottlieb-Miller, Conscious Healthy Mama Naomi Gottlieb-Miller on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube  The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 373: Yoga Philosophy for Parenthood with Claire Holloway Summer Biz Camp Sasha Heron, Host of the Grief Cafe Guest Speakers in Pelvic Health Professionals Shannon Crow on Instagram The Connected Yoga Teacher Facebook Group Pelvic Health Professionals   Gratitude to our Sponsors, OfferingTree, Summer Biz Camp, and Pelvic Health Professionals.   Quotes from this episode: "Whatever I am doing for myself to move is good. It does not have to be 60 minutes or 30 minutes or even 10 minutes. It can be really short. And if that makes my body feel good, that is enough."   "Another thing that can be so hard actually, is that if our expectations for our practice are really high, ...we're never going to get anything done."   "Why are we putting value judgments on the length of time?"   "Your home practice does not need to look like the classes that you teach. Your home practice should look like what you need."   "We just need to reframe what we think is necessary for both home practice and what we teach."   "Motivation is fickle."   "We want to assign so much more power to yoga and to movement because we want things to be miracle fixes."   "I don't necessarily think that a 15-minute practice means that you're rushing things."