The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Ep 139: Grow Your Yoga Business via Email with Tarzan Kay   Description: What do emails have to do with increasing your income as a yoga teacher? With the right strategy, it can be an amazing tool to connect with your yoga students in your community or online, increase your number of clients, or promote a launch of a new offering. Tarzan Kay shares her expert insight on just how you can do this.   Tarzan Kay is a launch strategist and copywriter who has gone years of hustling for clients at $35/hour, to a rock star client list and a $1,500 hourly rate. She works with clients such as Amy Porterfield, Jasmine Star and Marie Forleo, and was featured in Forbes Magazine. She focuses on helping people make money doing what they love by writing powerful email and website copy that converts readers into clients.   Email can be a powerful marketing tool if you know how to harness it. Tarzan shares how to write emails that don’t feel salesy, how long your emails should be, how often you should be sending emails, and whether you should just hire someone else to write all of your copy.   Whether you’ve already been using emails to reach new students or this is the first time you’re thinking about how to grow your yoga business via email, there are some great tips in this interview.   Key Takeaways: [5:17] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Tarzan Kay. [6:56] How did Tarzan become a launch strategist? She explains the work that she does and who she does it for. [10:56] What are some of Tarzan's tips for raising your rates? [15:13] Tarzan raised her rates from $35/ hour to $1,500/ hour. She reveals some of the packages she offers clients and how it might apply to yoga teachers. [23:21] Why is it important for yoga teachers to be emailing their students? [26:28] How should yoga teachers be writing emails so that they don't feel salesy? [29:10] What are some resources Tarzan recommends to break through the mental block of not wanting to sell? [30:22] How often should people be emailing their list? [33:50] One email, one job - Tarzan explains how this applies to your emails. [36:48] Tarzan explains what inspired her to create her Legendary event. [38:56] One of the things yoga teachers say holds them back from writing emails is that they're not feeling creative. Tarzan has a response to that. [40:36] How long should an email be? [42:11] Should you hire someone to write your copy for you? [44:11] What is your brand voice and how do you develop that? [47:00] What are some of Tarzan's tips for bringing in new clients through email? [49:33] Tarzan doesn't create free content all the time. She explains how her strategy works. [57:47] What is Tarzan's recommendation for building up to a launch? [1:00:46] Tarzan has some final bits of advice around sending emails. [1:02:10] Find out more about Tarzan at her website and check out her free quiz too. [1:03:44] Shannon shares her key takeaways from this episode. What were yours?   Links: Tarzan Kay Amy Porterfield Podcast Episode 269 - Small List Superhero: How To Have A Profitable Launch Without A Big List with Tarzan Kay Money Bootcamp with Denise Duffield-Thomas Manifesting Formula Workshop with Denise Duffield-Thomas Kate Northrup Tarzan Kay & Sage Polaris, Legendary Life Event Justin Blackman, Pretty Fly Copy Gratitude to our Sponsors Schedulicity and MamaNurture   Quotes from this episode:   "When someone's not paying you very much, they aren't that invested in showing up and doing the work."   "You're really selling yourself short if you think as a yoga teacher, all you have to offer is guiding people through a series of poses."   "You have to create the vision for them, when you're selling a package."   "What's more important is creating a package and a vision for people that you can put a healthy price tag on."   "Email is where you can develop your know-like-and-trust factor if you just show up there more consistently."   "I don't think that your business can grow beyond yourself. You have to work on your own personal expansion in tandem with the expansion of your business."   "You really need to take the time to figure out your own voice."   "The important thing is that you write [emails] and you send them and what you think is not good, someone else might think is the greatest thing they've ever read."

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Ep 138: Accessible Yoga Beyond Asana with Jivana Heyman   Description: What does it mean to make yoga accessible to everyone? Yoga goes beyond just asana, so what does it really mean? Jivana Heyman is one of the frontrunners of changing the thinking around yoga, and making the whole of yoga accessible to everyone.   Jivana Heyman is the Founder and Director of Accessible Yoga, an international non-profit organization dedicated to increasing access to yoga teachings through education, training and advocacy with the mission of shifting the public perception of yoga. Over ten years ago, he coined the term “accessible yoga”, and since then, it has gained traction and is impacting the larger yoga world. As a yoga teacher, Jivana has specialized in teaching yoga to people with disabilities with an emphasis on community building and social engagement and has led countless yoga teacher training programs around the world over the past 25 years.   At its core, Accessible Yoga is about highlighting the amazing work people are doing and creating new connections and community. Jivana shares more about how we can make yoga more accessible, on the level of individual classes, trainings, and in yoga culture in general. He also reveals some of the content of his new book Accessible Yoga: Poses and Practices for Every Body, to be released in November 2019. Jivana also reveals why collaboration and creativity are an important part of making yoga accessible to all.   This is such an important topic for all yoga teachers who want to share yoga with everybody, and this episode will inspire you to see making yoga accessible to all in a new light.   Key Takeaways: [5:19] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Jivana Heyman. [7:13] What does Jivana do and who does he do it for? [8:52] What are some aspects in which Jivana sees that yoga is not accessible to all people? [11:21] Accessible Yoga is about highlighting the amazing work people are doing and creating new connections and community. [13:00] Jivana shares his personal experience of how yoga impacted him in a way that saved his life. [15:48] Jivana has a new book coming out in November 2019. He talks about the inspiration for the book and what it covers. [20:37] At the heart of Jivana's work is making the whole of yoga, beyond just asana, accessible to everyone. He gives an example of this. [22:29] How does Jivana illustrate and make the rest of the 8 limbs (apart from asana) accessible in his book? [24:29] What are some of the messages Jivana is trying to get through to yoga teachers? [27:35] Two main aspects Jivana focuses on during his trainings for teachers are creativity and collaboration. He explains how creativity factors to teaching yoga. [33:15] How does collaboration factor into making yoga more accessible? [40:37] How long has Jivana been doing his work with the Accessible Yoga organization? [42:31] Jivana speaks about his vision for Accessible Yoga and how that has revealed itself to him over time. [45:10] What is the yoga world, and what is its relationship to the rest of the world? [46:09] Jivana has recently changed his social media strategy. He explains what prompted this change. [49:52] Accessibility often starts with finances. Why does Jivana believe that? [53:07] What were some things that came up as Jivana was writing his book? Shannon and Jivana discuss the ego. [1:03:27] Jivana shares some of his final pieces of advice. [1:04:35] Get in touch with Jivana via his website, and be sure to follow him on social media. [1:05:42] What does accessible yoga mean to you? [1:07:36] Shannon gives us a sneak preview of what's coming up next week on the podcast!   Links: Jivana Heyman, Accessible Yoga Accessible Yoga Jivana Heyman on Facebook and Instagram Accessible Yoga: Poses and Practices for Every Body, by Jivana Heyman The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 092: Accessible Yoga Begins with Language with Kesse Hodge, Chantel Ehler and Katie Juelson The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 060: Accessible Yoga with Sarah Helt Accessible Yoga Conference   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity and MamaNurture   Quotes from this episode:   "The work of Accessible Yoga is to highlight the incredible work that's out there, not really creating something new."   "That's a big piece of our work too, really trying to create new connections and community where there really hasn't been one."   "At the heart of my work is not really asana, but actually the whole of yoga and really thinking differently."   "I think that people are doing the best they can with what they have, and I appreciate that."   "You can learn to paint by copying great masters, that's an amazing way to study. But eventually, to be an artist, you have to paint your own way."   "Doing your practice is the least selfish thing you can do. Taking care of ourselves is the most serviceful thing we can do for the world."   "Accessibility often starts with finances."

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Ep 137: Yoga and Brain Injuries with Ann Green   Description: Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is a condition that is far more prevalent than we might think. An estimated 69 million people worldwide suffer from Traumatic Brain Injuries each year, and the thing is, it’s often not possible to tell just by looking at a person if they have experienced TBI. Ann Green joins me to share how we as yoga teachers can learn a few things to help people on the road to recovery.Ann Green is a yogi, a runner, and a surfer with over 30 years of teaching yoga, and almost fifteen conducting yoga teacher training. She has a background in sport psychology and physical education, and a Masters in Exercise Science from the University of Toronto. Ann is skilled in Coaching, Wellness Coaching, Pain Management and Prevention, Yoga, and Fitness Training. Over the years, Ann has had her own experiences with concussions and brain injury. In her line of work, she has also come across many individuals who have experienced TBI, and this has inspired her to shift her focus to offer yoga that caters specifically to the needs of those coping with brain injuries. Ann shares her own journey living as a person with brain injury, and how this has informed her practice and her work in this space. She has some tips on what we can do in a yoga class, or with breath and movement to assist someone on the road to recovery with a brain injury, as well how empowering it can be just to understand what someone with this condition may be going through. Whether you have experience working with students with brain injury, or this is something you have never even considered, this episode is sure to be informative for all yoga teachers. Key Takeaways: [5:36] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Ann Green. [7:30] When did Ann start to tie in yoga and brain health? [12:38] Ann shares her personal experience with concussions and brain injury. [19:17] What are some symptoms that might come up for someone with brain injury? [25:26] Ann highlights some of the reasons she believes the concussion rates are highest for women between 45 and 55 years of age. [26:42] Ann has learned and grown from her experience with brain injury, and has framed her experiences in a different light. [29:02] What does Ann do in her classes with her students dealing with brain injury? [32:16] Ann has created a program called Brainstorm, for people with concussions or who work with people with brain injuries to connect in community and find their calm. [40:54] Ann shares some key aspects of the Building a Blissful Brain classes. [46:40] Shannon and Ann discuss working with people with concussions and how you may need to help them push a little further in their recovery process. [48:27] What are some language cues that can be helpful (or unhelpful) when working with someone with a concussion or brain injury? [50:46] Talking about neuroplasticity, what are some movements that can be useful to integrate into the class? [1:00:53] Ann has some final recommendations for yoga teachers working with students with brain injuries for the first time. [1:03:02] Shannon shares some of her biggest takeaways from this interview with Ann.   Links: Ann Green, BLiSS Brain-Storm, Building a Blissful Brain Teacher Education Platforms  Work with Shannon 1:1   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity and Mama Nurture   Quotes from this episode:   "You can't do movement without the awesome, excellence of communication with your brain."   "The only reason that people don't get so incredibly worried about [concussions] is, most people don't die of a concussion."   "The numbers show from the States and from Canada, that we are beyond epidemic levels of concussion, minor brain injury level."   "Your mess becomes your message."   "I want people to realize something that's not recognizable and it is invisible, we need to make it recognizable."   "Let tenderness be your teacher.

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast  Ep 136: Yoga for Teens & Tweens with Karen Pascoe   Description: Tweens and teengagers can be a difficult audience to reach. They are changing physically, mentally, and emotionally, and that comes with a whole different set of challenges. Dr. Karen Pascoe has found her niche in catering to this specific age group and on this episode, shares some of her strategies and tips for teaching yoga to younger students.   Dr. Karen Pascoe is a Licensed Psychologist, Certified Personal Trainer, Certified Therapeutic Yoga Teacher, and an Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher (E-RYT 200) with Yoga Alliance. She began teaching yoga in 1996, and in 2015, launched the Mind Body Life Transformation Center. Apart from yoga classes, therapy and wellness sessions, she offers classes, parties and summer camps specially targeted at tweens and teens.   How is teaching tweens and teens different from teaching adults? What are some of the challenges you might encounter in reaching this age group? Why is communication and connection so important when structuring these classes? Karen shares her insights on these topics, as well as the business side of marketing and promoting yoga for tweens and teens.    If you teach tweens and teens, or are interested in niching down to this age group, or if you just have teens of your own and would like some tools to share with them, this episode is just what you need to listen to.   Key Takeaways: [6:08] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Dr. Karen Pascoe. [7:27] What is Karen's yoga journey and how did it bring her to where she is now? [10:05] What is the biggest difference between an adult yoga class and a class for teens and tweens? [11:52] What age group is tweens and what age group is teens? [13:06] How do teen and tween students differ? [14:57] What motivates younger students to participate in yoga classes? [15:56] How does Karen deal with students who come in as a result of being signed up by their parents and who are unmotivated? [17:24] What do Karen's tween classes look like vs teen classes? She walks us through the structure of her classes. [22:39] Karen incorporates pauses into her classes for younger students. She explains how that works. [24:45] Shannon and Karen discuss why making yoga an empowering practice is so important for this age group. [27:23] What are some tools that Karen teaches her students to help them with emotional regulation? [31:39] In her work as a psychologist, Karen works with tweens and older. She shares more about her work in that area. [34:35] What are some of Karen's tips for yoga teachers who have never taught a tween or teen class? [38:23] Karen explains more about what it takes to be "cool" with tweens and teens. [41:40] What is the most effective strategy to get the word out about tween and teen yoga classes? [43:42] What does Karen's tween and teen camp look like? [45:53] Karen shares some resources for yoga teachers interested in teaching teens. [48:30] Connect with Karen via her website or Facebook to find out more about her work and trainings. [49:04] Karen leaves us with an anecdote of how impactful teen yoga can be. [51:08] Shannon would love to hear your feedback! Links: The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 113: Pinterest to Promote Your Yoga with Kate Ahl Dr. Karen Pascoe, Mind Body Life Transformation Center Mind Body Life Transformation Center on Facebook Brainstorm: The Power and Purpose of the Teenage Brain by Daniel J. Siegel Work with Shannon 1:1 Gratitude to our Sponsors Schedulicity and MamaNurture.   Quotes from this episode:   "In the tween and teen classes, you have to have these pauses to engage and re-engage, because they don't have the attention span for that. It needs to be more of a community-oriented experience."   "One of my goals for that age is empowerment."   "After the inversions, because those are the single most calming pose that you can do ... it will be silence."   "I want so much of the yoga to be strategy, for it to be empowering."   "If they are not being taught strategy and skill for emotional regulation, they feel very vulnerable."   "Depression, anxiety, no matter what they're coming in for, it's in their body as much as their mind."  

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast  Ep 135: How to Modify for the Prenatal Student with Rena Wren   Description: When teaching prenatal yoga, or pregnant students, what are the poses you should avoid? Can you teach twists, inversions or front extensions? What are some modifications I can cue, or props I can use to cater to the needs of my pregnant students? All your questions are going to be answered on this episode with Rena Wren.   Rena Wren is one of our MamaNurture lead trainers, and the founder of Empowered Yoga Teaching, where she provides continuing education and support for yoga teachers.  Apart from prenatal yoga teacher training through MamaNurture, she offers yin yoga training, and yoga teacher mentoring on a wide range of topics, as well as workshops, retreats, and online courses.    Contraindicated yoga during pregnancy covers eight main areas. Shannon and Rena dive into each of these, as well as modifications and variations that you can cue for your pregnant students and in your prenatal class. Be sure to check out the free PDF Download and Rena’s videos where she shares variations you can use.   If you have ever taught prenatal yoga, or had a pregnant student come to your class, this episode is going to be a real treat. It is full of tips and modifications that you can immediately start applying to any of your prenatal classes or to work with pregnant students.   Key Takeaways: [5:38] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Rena Wren. [8:04] How did Rena get started in her yoga journey? [12:35] Rena juggles multiple roles and responsibilities. She shares how yoga has helped her find balance in what she does. [15:09] Check out the PDF download for the 8 contraindicated poses during pregnancy. [16:03] Shannon and Rena discuss the first contraindicated pose - Breath retention and/or strong, forced breathing. What are some of Rena's favorite modifications for this? [17:47] Advanced poses that challenge and build heat are second on the list. How can you tell when certain poses are advanced? [22:31] What are some modifications Rena recommends to avoid poses that engage and/or stretch the rectus abdominis muscles (e.g. boat, crow, leg lifts)? [27:18] Front extensions can overstretch the abdominal muscles. Rena walks us through a modification of camel pose for the pregnant body. [30:11] Inversions are contraindicated for pregnancy. How would Rena modify the headstand, handstand, shoulder stand and downward dog poses? [36:46] What are some of Rena's favorite variations for prone poses? [40:05] How can you identify closed twist poses and what are some modifications you can offer? [44:54] The last one is hot yoga. Shannon and Rena discuss why they would not teach hot yoga to pregnant people. [47:15] Check out the live video from September 16 to find out more about caution poses in the grey area. [47:48] Rena has some final insights on how teachers can approach having a pregnant student in their class. [49:39] Rena has a MamaNurture training coming up! [52:05] Shannon shares some details about upcoming teacher trainings that are available. [53:12] Shannon has an update about MamaNurture and all the work she is doing with niching down. Links: Rena Wren Empowered Yoga Teaching PDF Contraindicated Yoga The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 089: Yoga for Stress Management with Courtney Butler-Robinson MamaNurture Facebook Page MamamNurture Mondays Videos Camel Variations Video with Rena Inversions Variations Video - Legs Up the Wall with Rena Closed Twists Variation Video Online Workshop with Shannon & Rena Work with Shannon 1:1 MamaNurture Prenatal Yoga Teacher Training in Conway, Arkansas   Gratitude to our Sponsors Schedulicity and MamaNurture.   Quotes from this episode:   "One of the main things I've learned from yoga is to know the things that I value, and to make sure that I have enough of those things in my life to help me have balance." "A lot of students who come to prenatal yoga are new to yoga."   "Challenging is dependent on the student."   "Getting people to slow down and feel nurtured in a space really helps them realize that they don't really care about their idea of yoga was anymore. They care that they feel good when they leave this room."   "One of the first things to do ...is [think about] what are the benefits, what are we trying to do?"   "Take baby with you in the twist."  

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Ep 134: Pelvic Health for Pregnancy & Beyond with Julie Wiebe   Description: What is the recovery time after birth for prenatal yoga students? What are some things to consider in the recovery of postnatal students looking to get back to full strength and fitness? There are a lot of myths around pelvic and abdominal health during pregnancy and postpartum, which Julie Wiebe busts through on this episode. Julie Wiebe is a Physical Therapist (PT) with over twenty years of clinical experience in both Sports Medicine and Women’s Health. She is also an educator and women’s health advocate working to create awareness of pregnancy recovery, postpartum and pelvic and abdominal health issues in fitness. Pregnancy and birth is a period during which the body changes and adapts to accommodate the growing baby, and post-birth, there is a period of rehabilitation that is necessary for the body to return to its regular function. Julie shares some of the misconceptions around post-birth recovery, hyperlordosis, urinary incontinence, Kegels and much more. She also highlights some breath techniques and poses yoga teachers can use to help their students regulate intra-abdominal pressure, and the importance of teaching from a place of educated hope instead of educated fear.This episode is meant for any yoga practitioner or teacher who has been pregnant, who plans to be pregnant, or who really wants to help the pregnant and postnatal yoga student - Julie’s insights on this topic are really eye-opening! Key Takeaways: [7:45] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Julie Wiebe. [9:07] What does Julie do and who does she do it for? [10:21] Why is there a rehabilitation period after pregnancy and giving birth? [12:43] Julie recommends for people to come to her prenatally and postnatally. [15:10] Julie shares some statistics around how paid maternity leave affects infant and parental health. [19:16] What are some things that Julie would want prenatal yoga teachers and students to know about the changes in the body? [21:59] How can we teach people to breathe optimally? [27:01] What pose does Julie recommend to get into the closure of the rib cage? [29:45] During pregnancy, there is a lot more weight on the front of the body. How does that affect alignment, and the lumbar curve? Julie busts some myths around anterior pelvic tilt in pregnancy. [34:16] Where does Julie start to help people find alignment? [37:24] What does it mean to strengthen the diaphragm? [41:09] Julie and Shannon discuss the condition of incontinence, specifically leaking urine. [45:20] Kegels is not always the answer! Julie addresses this myth that Kegels is always a good exercise after birth. [48:45] What else can yoga teachers be doing to help their students in terms of movement, breath or information? [53:28] Why is it important to be having conversations around pelvic health, pregnancy and postpartum rehabilitation and recovery? [58:36] Get in touch with Julie and check out the wealth of resources, articles and videos she has available on her website. [59:40] Shannon shares some of her key takeaways.   Links: Julie Wiebe The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 121: Yoga for Pelvic Health with Shannon Crow The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 129: Pelvic Floor 101 with Marie-Josée Forget  The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 133: Yoga for Painful Sex with Casie Danenhauer paper for her doctorate re: maternity leave and study with 50% reduction / 75% reduction? Study about less depression with maternity leave[00:17:03]  The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 007: Breath and Pelvic Health with Trista Zinn MamaNurture Prenatal Yoga Teacher Training with Shannon Crow (Meaford, ON) MamaNurture Prenatal Yoga Teacher Training with Rena Wren (Arkansas)   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity and Mama Nurture   Quotes from this episode:   "There are changes that come because of the pregnancy...what my job is, is to help you rebalance those changes and get you back to function and fitness without any limitations."   "What would we see down the line with pelvic health knowing that women had an opportunity just to recover?"   "If I could do anything for anyone, if I could do one thing, it would be to optimize their breathing."   "Form or alignment, for me, has a lot to do with access to muscles."   "We need to start looking at individuals and understand their needs, and that's tricky."

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Ep 133: Yoga for Painful Sex with Casie Danenhauer   Description: How is the health of your pelvic floor is related to sexual dysfunction and painful sex? This is a topic that many of us find uncomfortable to talk about, but that a lot of us, particularly women, struggle with. Dr. Casie Danenhauer, someone who has experienced pelvic pain herself, reveals how she has combined techniques from physical therapy and yoga to create a holistic approach to healing.   Dr. Casie Danenhauer is a pelvic floor physical therapist, registered yoga teacher, and Founder of Enlighten Physical Therapy, where she focuses on providing conscious care for pelvic health. After using a combination of yoga techniques and physical therapy to address her own struggles with pelvic pain and painful intercourse, Casie realized that a holistic approach is the most efficient and effective path towards pelvic health. Since then, she has integrated yoga, breathing and meditation exercises into her physical therapy practice to create a unique East-meets-West approach.   By speaking openly about her own experience with pelvic pain, Casie hopes to break some of the stigma and shame that surrounds the topic. She explains more about the pelvic floor, some common symptoms and conditions associated with painful intercourse, and how therapeutic yoga, physical therapy and breathwork can be used in combination to treat these conditions. She also offers advice on how yoga teachers can responsibly talk about and cue the pelvic floor, and be a part of a client’s healing journey.   Whether you have students who are dealing with pelvic pain or painful intercourse, or you just want to be more aware of how yoga and physical therapy can be integrated to address pelvic health conditions, you’re sure to find value in this episode.   Key Takeaways: [6:30] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Dr. Casie Danenhauer. [8:10] What does Casie do and how did she get into it? She shares her journey with physical therapy and yoga, and how she came to integrate the two in her practice. [16:01] Shannon and Casie discuss the language and connotations of using expressions like "pelvic dysfunction". [16:58] When did Casie start dealing with her own pelvic health conditions? [21:34] Pelvic health professionals can make a big impact on people and make a difference to people. [23:02] Casie shares some of the treatments that helped with her pain with sex, and how she moved into becoming a pelvic floor PT. [25:41] That Casie has shared the personal aspects of her own struggles with her pelvic health condition openly is very powerful. [27:00] What are some conditions associated with painful sex, and what are the symptoms associated with each? [29:32] What were some treatment methods Casie engaged in to treat her own pain, and who would she engage to help in her treatment now? [32:20] What can yoga teachers do to support students who are dealing with painful intercourse? [39:22] Casie recommends for yoga teachers to reach out to your students PT to find out more about what they are dealing with. [43:13] How can yoga teachers use the same pose for different purposes? Casie breaks down with the example of cat-cow. [49:10] What are some cues yoga teachers can give for students who need to build strength in their pelvic floor? [50:23] Casie shares some key issues to be aware of when addressing a student who is struggling with pelvic pain or painful intercourse. [51:47] What are some differences in Casie's approach compared to the medical approach? [55:55] Connect with Casie on Instagram, or check out her website for more information on the work she does.   Links: Dr. Casie Danenhauer Dr. Casie Danenhauer on Instagram The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 121: Yoga for Pelvic Health with Shannon Crow The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 129: Pelvic Floor 101 with Marie-Josée Forget Pelvic Health Professionals - Resources Pelvic Floor (Dys)Function, by Dominique Gauthier for LFL Blog #SchedulicityCares Jessica Drummond, Integrative Women's Health Institute Judith Florendo Yoni Shakti, by Uma Dinsmore-Tuli Well Women Yoga Therapy Nicole Jardim WomanCode: Perfect Your Cycle, Amplify Your Fertility, Supercharge Your Sex Drive, and Become a Power Source, by Alisa Vitti Work with Shannon 1:1 Group Coaching with Amanda McKinney Gratitude to our Sponsors Schedulicityand Pelvic Health Professionals   Quotes from this episode:   "There's a million different ways we can prescribe a breathwork, but most of it, honestly, is just giving the patient permission to move in ways and give attention to their body and specifically, their pelvic spaces, when maybe they've never even heard of that as a possibility."   "I was really, really moved by how powerful pelvic floor PT can be in helping people with really basic ‘quality of life’ level issues that we take for granted until something goes wrong."   "That's part of my main mission is to de-stigmatize all of this stuff, and take out the shame."   "That, I feel is the most healing aspect, is just being able to voice what we're experiencing in our body."   "Pain levels decrease with mindfulness."   "The brain and the nervous system is influencing all of the tissues in the body."

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast 132: Marketing to Increase Private Bookings with Amanda Mays   Description: How can you market your yoga business without seeming pushy or salesy? What kind of strategies can you use to attract your ideal client? Amanda Mays joins Shannon on this consultation call to talk through her struggles with marketing herself and putting her yoga business out there. Amanda is self proclaimed yoga and happiness ambassador. She works as a freelance editor and occasionally teaches e-courses on writing, specifically journaling, and how to use that habit to fuel a bigger writing practice. She is also raising six children apart from all this, and has very limited free time. Amanda wants to expand her yoga offering to begin working with private clients, and to become more purposeful in her approach to teaching yoga and marketing her business to the right clients.Shannon coaches Amanda through her mindset blocks of not wanting to market herself while offering actionable advice on how best to move toward offering more 1:1 private yoga sessions. From tips on how to use social media to promote her yoga business, to goal-setting, Shannon guides Amanda to find clarity in her aims for her business.If you’re like Amanda and worry that your marketing efforts are too pushy, or feel like you’re being pulled in too many different directions promoting your yoga business, this episode will help you get some clarity around how best to get the word out about your yoga offerings.P.S. Since this episode was recorded, Amanda has grown her yoga business from zero private clients, to about five 1:1 clients a week! Key Takeaways: [5:17] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Amanda Mays. [7:50] What is Amanda's biggest challenge in her yoga business? [9:19] What are some of Amanda's top ideas that are calling to her? Shannon suggests doing a free writing practice. [12:43] What is the one thing that can increase profit and growth in Amanda's business? [14:22] Why does Amanda want to move towards 1:1 yoga? [17:14] Shannon goes through an exercise with Amanda to create an ideal week and how to bridge the gap between her current schedule and ideal schedule. [21:08] Amanda's biggest hurdle is marketing herself. Shannon shares an anecdote from her personal experience running a farmer's market to help her with this mental block. [24:06] What is something Amanda's ideal student is struggling with? [27:27] Shannon and Amanda discuss setting measurable goals for her yoga business, and how sharing her story can contribute to making the 'ask'. [32:25] Shannon highlights why it's important for Amanda's social media to reflect her business and how to leverage that to reach her ideal clients. [40:21] Shannon shares her tips on doing live video. [46:35] Shannon and Amanda set some goals for her to start doing live videos! [48:59] Shannon prompts Amanda to think about how people can book 1:1 sessions with her. [52:53] How can Amanda figure out her core values as a yoga teacher, and some of her discomforts around marketing herself? Shannon suggests the "I believe" exercise. [1:00:45] Amanda shares more about her fear of niching down. [1:03:07] Amanda struggles with how she can incorporate some of her previous e-courses and journaling activities into her offering that all target the same ideal client. Shannon has some suggestions. [1:10:55] What's your biggest takeaway from this consultation call? Share your comments or questions with Shannon!   Links: Amandaa Mays Amanda Mays on Facebook Group Coaching with Shannon Crow and Amanda McKinney The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 095: Making a CEO Business Plan with Shannon Crow The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 094: Instagram Content Strategy and Stories with Tyler McCall The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 107: Launch & Promote Your Yoga Offering with Abby Herman The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 086: Live Video for Yoga Teachers with Ian Gray Mindbody 1:1 Consultation with Shannon Crow   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity and Pelvic Health Professionals   Quotes from this episode:   "This is what I want to do, but I can't quite figure out how to put the steps together." - Amanda "What if we instead, really focus on who might be your ideal student?" - Shannon"The thing is with working 1:1, is it takes time to build it. Our best advertising is someone telling someone else how great they feel." - Shannon"People are excited to invest in the why, why you do something and the whole story behind it." - Shannon

  This episode is all about something Shannon often gets asked - the nitty-gritty details of how to teach private yoga. It can feel intimidating, and you may not know where to start or how to structure a private yoga session with a student. Shannon dives into exactly how she handles her yoga sessions, from scheduling the 1:1 class to after the session ends. Shannon covers a lot of ground. Starting off with scheduling, pricing, policies around booking, cancellation, payment, and rent, she also touches on waivers, health information and questions to ask to get to know your student better. Find out how Shannon creates a yoga flow on the fly for the person she is teaching, how she approaches space to do yoga, and makes sure to fit in the actual yoga (including Savasana!) within the session. 1:1 yoga is different from group classes, and Shannon explains how to be in discussion with your client while working with them, homework she assigns, and how she manages accountability and follow up. This episode is jam-packed with lots of information and actionable tips - it was designed to help you dive right into teaching private yoga, if you have been thinking about it and just weren’t sure about the in’s and out’s.   Key Takeaways: [6:38] This episode is all about the nitty-gritty details of teaching private yoga. [7:35] When and how can someone schedule a session with you? [9:40] What is your price? Shannon highlights some elements to consider when setting your price. [15:12] How does Shannon approach providing mats and props, and the amount of time she allows between appointments. [19:12] Setting policies and rules is an important part of teaching private yoga. Shannon shares some of her tips around booking, cancellation and payment policies. [20:48] Rent - how much are you able to pay for rent? [22:19] The next step is doing the intake after someone books with you. Shannon dives into waivers and health information. [24:54] A lot of yoga teachers get stuck when it comes to asking their students questions. What are some questions you can ask to find out more about your student? [29:16] If you are helping a student with a specific symptom or problem, what and how much information do you require ahead of time to help you prepare? [32:06] Shannon creates the yoga flow for her private students on the fly. She explains how she goes about doing this with some real-life examples. [35:36] Shannon shares what it means to hold space to do yoga. [38:31] How can you be in discussion with your student during a 1:1 yoga session? [40:19] Shannon gives her students homework! [42:07] The last aspect of teaching private yoga is accountability and follow up.   Links: #SchedulicityCares The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 122: Productivity for Yoga Teachers with Amber De La Garza The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 105: Insurance for Yoga Teachers with Beth McVeigh Yoga Student Waiver Typeform The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 130: Make a Profit Teaching Private Yoga with Emily Sussell   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity and Pelvic Health Professionals   Quotes from this episode:   "Imagine your ideal week. When would you ideally teach 1:1 yoga?"   "I don’t want you to negotiate and earn less than your set hourly rate."   "You are ready to teach 1:1 yoga as soon as you graduate from yoga teacher training.”   “Set your price and your policies first. Then set up how people book with you.”

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast 130: Make a Profit Teaching Private Yoga with Emily Sussell   Description: Can you make a good living teaching yoga? A lot of us yoga teachers struggle with money mindset - we don’t like to talk about making profits, or think about sharing yoga as a business. However, that’s an important part of being able to bring yoga to others. You need to be able to sustain yourself first, before you can serve others. On this episode, Emily Sussell reveals how she makes $100,000 a year with her yoga business, and how you can too. Emily is a successful yoga teacher, business coach, and entrepreneur. She became a certified yoga instructor in 2013, and founded Private Yoga Brooklyn, a premium private yoga service in NYC. As other yoga teachers noticed her success and reached out to her for help in creating their own private yoga businesses, Emily was inspired to start Abundant Yogi Coaching, a business coaching institute for yoga teachers worldwide. In addition to coaching and mentorship services, she offers educational resources and coaching retreats to empower yoga teachers with tools to thrive financially and become more impactful as healers. Finding your niche is a common theme on the podcast. Emily explains how teaching private yoga can be a niche on it own, and how to make the leap from teaching group classes to private yoga. She explains how she found her ideal client avatar, set her prices and marketed herself using branding on her website and SEO. Her biggest piece of advice? Motion over meditation.   If teaching private yoga is something you’ve given even a little bit of thought to, or if you just want to be able to make a decent income as a yoga teacher, this episode is for you.   Key Takeaways: [6:35] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Emily Sussell.[8:30] Where did Emily's yoga journey begin and how did she get to where she is today?[13:56] What was the biggest thing for Emily that allowed her to shift from teaching group yoga to specializing in private yoga?[15:38] What are some of Emily's tips around starting to specialize in teaching private yoga? [18:22] Emily shares some advice around just taking the leap and going for it.[20:42] How does Emily decide on the pricing for her yoga classes? She has a special equation![23:10] Emily believes it's possible to make a good income teaching yoga and teaching private yoga. She shares her insights into what that might look like.[25:29] What are Emily's suggestions for attracting the right kinds of clients who can afford your fees?[27:47] Shannon and Emily discuss niching down and specializing.[30:36] How do packages and discounted pricing play into Emily's offerings?[35:50] At what point did Emily transition from group to private classes?[38:01] What is the most effective channel for Emily to get in front of her potential clients in terms of marketing and visibility?[41:33] What does a 1:1 yoga session look like?[45:38] What's the first step to take if you're looking to move in the direction of teaching private yoga classes?[48:30] Check out the links for more information on insurance and waiver forms.[49:18] Find out more about Emily's work via her Facebook group and her coaching website, Abundant Yogi.[50:29] Shannon shares some of her key takeaways - she'd love to hear yours too! Links: Emily Sussell, Private Yoga Brooklyn Mastering the Biz of Private Yoga Facebook Group Abundant Yogi Coach.com Marie Forleo B School Four Agreements Yoga Student Waiver The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 105: Insurance for Yoga Teachers with Beth McVeigh Insurance for Yoga Teachers Yoga for Pelvic Health Meaford, Ontario Gratitude to our Sponsors Schedulicity and Pelvic Health Professionals Quotes from this episode: "I fell in love with everything about working 1:1 with somebody in their home." "One of the things that helped me make that transition [to specializing in private yoga] was honestly, deciding to." "I realized that if I didn't choose something and commit to it, then I was just going to stay in this space of vagueness." "When you're building a business and you're trying to move forward with growing something, don't get stuck in that place of constantly meditating what's the best way to do this." "When we're creating marketing, we're not trying to appeal to everyone." 

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Ep 129: Pelvic Floor 101 with Marie-Josée Forget   Description: This episode is on one of Shannon’s favorite topics - pelvic health. It is one of the crucial parts of our body that plays many functions in our daily lives, but gets very little attention, until something goes wrong. Marie-Josée Forget, a Pelvic Health Physiotherapist, is here to give us the basics on everything pelvic floor.   Marie-Josée Forget is a Pelvic Health Physiotherapist with 18 years of clinical experience. She currently teaches courses related to pelvic anatomy and health at Pelvic Health Solutions, and has developed a hand-drawn female and male pelvic floor model that is used as a teaching tool. Apart from her work as an instructor and public speaker on the topic of pelvic health, MJ runs a private physiotherapy practice where she treats men, women and children who have pelvic floor dysfunction.   The pelvic floor is a bit of a mystery to most of us. MJ helps us to understand a bit more about the anatomy of the pelvic floor and crucial role that it plays in various daily functions. Despite the common perception that the pelvic floor is weak and needs to be strengthened, MJ reveals that many people actually suffer from the effects of pelvic floor tension, rather than weakness. She also busts some common misconceptions and myths surrounding the pelvic floor   MJ also has some great suggestions on how yoga instructors and pelvic health physiotherapists can work together to better serve your students. Tune in to learn more about this remarkable part of our body, and how this information can help you and your yoga students.    P.S. MJ Forget is the October guest expert in the Pelvic Health Professionals membership site!   Key Takeaways: [7:24] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Marie-Josée Forget. [9:26] What does MJ do and who does she do it for? [10:14] MJ explains how she created her pelvic floor models. [13:50] What is the pelvic floor, where is it, and what does it do? [19:13] Do we guard with the pelvic floor under stress? [20:16] Despite the importance and role of the pelvic floor in many of our daily activities, it is not a subject area that is often taught or discussed. [21:30] There may be a perception in society that the pelvic floor is weak, and weakens over time. MJ explains more about the muscle and how weakness or tension may exhibit the same symptoms. [24:56] MJ shares how yoga instructors can work together with pelvic health physiotherapists. [28:08] What is it like to have a pelvic health physiotherapist do an internal exam? [32:30] Shannon shares her experience of her first visit with her pelvic health physiotherapist. [33:31] Shannon and MJ discuss how times are changing and people are recognizing the importance of pelvic health. [37:01] What is the anatomy of the pelvic floor? [43:30] MJ shares an anecdote of a study she was part of that revealed that women presenting with back and hip pain were predominantly tight, rather than weak in their pelvic floor muscles. [46:03] One of the advantages of a practice like yoga is that it helps increase body awareness. [49:40] The words and language we use as yoga teachers and pelvic health professionals is so important. There is a need for communication and education. [51:07] What is the main thing that MJ wants listeners to understand and take away about pelvic health? She also busts some prevalent myths on the topic. [57:22] Check out the links for ways to connect with MJ. [58:03] What do you call the pelvic floor if it is holding tension or if it is weak? [59:47] Shannon shares her biggest takeaway from this interview with MJ, and a little bit about the Pelvic Health Professionals membership site. Links: Marie-Josée Forget, Total Pelvic Health Email Marie-Josée Forget Marie-Josée Forget on Twitter Marie-Josée Forget on Facebook Pelvic Health Solutions The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 121: Yoga for Pelvic Health with Shannon Crow Shannon Crow on Instagram Marketing Yoga with Confidence Podcast with Amanda McKinney Pelvic Floor Models Jessica?  Janice Taylor Association between lumbopelvic pain and pelvic floor dysfunction in women: A cross sectional study. Gratitude to our Sponsors Schedulicity and Pelvic Health Professionals   Quotes from this episode: "People can really appreciate 'Oh, I have a whole bunch of muscles down there, I had no idea, and they're actually a lot more significant than I thought them to be.'" "[The pelvic floor] still a part of the body we kind of ignore, and it's not until you start actually taking courses in pelvic health or doing yoga courses that we start to talk about it because of its importance." "A muscle that's too weak can cause incontinence, but a muscle that's too tight also can cause incontinence." "How great is it that we are getting now to the point where women are recognizing the importance of having a good evaluation and are seeking the care themselves!" "We don't connect with our body very much. We disconnect, if anything."

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Ep 128: Ayurveda, Doshas & Yoga with Angela Glaz   Description: This episode is all about reconnecting the sister sciences, yoga and Ayurveda. We all learn about Ayurveda in out Yoga Teacher Trainings at some level, but a lot of us don’t know how to incorporate it into our classes, or even really how our doshas affect us in our lives and in our business. Angela Glaz has adoped a unique approach in building her yoga business with Ayurveda at its core, and she shares more about how you can bring Ayurveda into your classes too.   Angela is a 500 E-RYT, Ayurvedic Counselor and the Founder of Eka Yoga. She came to yoga in 2002 and since then, she has traveled to India twice to deepen her own practice and to study Yoga and Ayurveda. Most recently, she completed the Ayurvedic Counseling Program at the Kerala Ayurveda Academy. Today, Angela offers Ayurvedic consultations, Yoga and Ayurveda Immersive Courses, online wellness courses and an online holistic membership site, as well as group and private yoga classes.   What are the different doshas, and how do they influence us? Angela dives into the three doshas and their defining characteristics, and explains how we might see them reflected in our yoga practice, our lives and even in our role as business owners. She also reveals how she organizes her classes to go in line with Ayurveda, the technical aspects of offering people classes based on their doshas, and how her online membership site ties into her business.   Tune in to this fascinating episode to learn more about your own doshas, and how you might use this information to thrive in teaching, being a business owner and also living your life.   Key Takeaways: [5:30] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Angela Glaz. [6:59] Where did Angela's yoga journey begin? [8:14] What has led Angela to the work that she does now? What does she do and who does she do it for? [10:33] Is there a difference between yoga and Ayurveda or is it the same thing? [11:52] What are the doshas? [19:38] How do you know what dosha you are? How do you avoid seeing everything through that lens? [23:48] What is something Angela has learned about the doshas that has really helped her as a yoga teacher? [25:05] How can yoga teachers bring the doshas and Ayurveda into their classes? [28:26] Angela shares some words of wisdom around attaching yourself or other people to a dosha. [30:00] In Angela's yoga studio, people take classes according to their doshas. She explains how this works from a technical and organizational standpoint. [32:12] When it comes to running a business, what are some things that would help the different doshas? [37:18] People carry all doshas within them, but usually one is dominant. [38:34] What is Angela's membership site about and what motivated her to start it? [41:45] Angela shares a little about the videos she puts up online for her membership site. [44:57] Who is Angela's target audience for her membership site? [46:35] Angela shares some final thoughts and resources. [48:19] Shannon leaves you with two final questions to think about.   Links: Angela Glaz, Eka Yoga and Ayurveda Eka Yoga - Holistic Membership Site The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 124: Enneagram for Yoga Entrepreneurs with Sarajane Case Microphone Teachable David Frawley Yoga for Your Type, by David Frawley 1:1 Consultation with Shannon Crow Group Coaching with Amanda Yoga for Pelvic Health Teacher Training   Gratitude to our Sponsors Schedulicity and Pelvic Health Professionals   Quotes from this episode:   "The concept behind the studio is to reconnect yoga and Ayurveda, because this gives practitioners a better idea of how to practice for their unique body type."   "Yoga is actually a tool to help us heal our body. It's part of Ayurveda."   "More people could benefit from understanding their unique body type and adjusting their diet, routine, exercise to find optimal health and happiness."   "The biggest thing that I'd like them to take away in their classes is really encouraging people to listen to their body."

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Ep 127: Let Nature Theme Your Classes with Alee Link   Description: Do you create your classes around a certain theme? Or have you been a part of a class where every pose and transition was intentional and flowed, and it left you wishing you knew how to structure your classes like that? Alee Link is great at intentional teaching, and finds the inspiration for her classes in nature - she shares how you can, too!   Alee Link attended her first yoga class when she was 12 years old, and in 2011, she completed her 200-hour RYT certification. In 2013, Alee and her husband founded River Flow Yoga and Wellness in Georgia, where she offers students yoga classes primarily rooted in Vinyasa (Flow) Yoga. She also created the MoonLIT Tribe app, which offers moon rituals, mantra, guided meditation and more for people looking to connect with themselves, each other, the planet, the stars, and everything around us.   One of Alee’s specialities is intentional teaching around a general theme for each class. She shares more about how she chooses her theme for each class, based on things that are going on in nature like the seasons, the placement of the moon, and the stars and what’s going on around her. Shannon and Alee also discuss the importance of intentional teaching, and why teaching classes around a certain theme doesn’t have to involve a lot of work.   If you’ve been thinking about where to get theme ideas for your classes, tune in to this episode to find out why you don’t have to look any further than the nature around us for inspiration and guidance.   Key Takeaways: [6:18] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Alee Link. [8:16] What does Alee do, and who does she do it for? [9:43] Alee was only 12 years old when she went for her first yoga class. When did she decide to become a yoga teacher? [14:15] What are some things Alee wishes she had known when choosing her first yoga teacher training? [18:40] How does Alee teach intentionally and theme her classes? [25:20] Alee shares an anecdote from her experience about the founding of the MoonLIT app, and how yoga teachers can use the app. [31:37] Shannon and Alee discuss the importance of nature, not just in yoga but in other aspects of life. [33:20] How much pressure does Alee feel in being intentional with every pose and transition in her teaching sequence? Does she communicate her intentions with her class? [40:23] When leading yoga teacher training to new teachers, how does Alee guide them to create themes for their classes apart from just focusing on their own practice? [45:08] How does Alee map out her classes? [50:01] What is something Alee has learned in leading yoga teacher training? [52:46] What has been a lightbulb moment for Alee's teachers in her training? [58:11] Does Alee also incorporate things that are going on around us in the world, in terms of news, current events or politics? [1:03:29] Get in touch with Alee on social media, check out the MoonLIT app, or visit her websites to find out more about her work. [1:04:21] Shannon shares her greatest takeaways, and would love to hear yours!   Links: Pelvic Health Professionals Alee Link, River Flow Yoga River Flow Yoga on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter MoonLIT Tribe MoonLIT Tribe on Instagram, Facebook Alee Link on Instagram Yoga to the People Let Your Yoga Dance History of Podcasts   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity   Quotes from this episode:   "My purpose on this planet is to spread the message of connectivity."   "That's how I teach, is based on what's going on in the natural world around us and that is our greatest teacher."   "My greatest advice is to take the time to understand the natural world."   "Just giving yourself a little space and grace to explore, I think is the biggest thing."   "The natural world is happening around us regardless. So we can either jump into the flow, or force ourselves against it and resist it."  

We have heard from a lot of yoga teachers in the last few weeks regarding the new standards released by Yoga Alliance. In this bonus podcast episode, Shannon Roche explains what this means for both yoga teachers and schools. Links mentioned: https://essentials.schedulicity.com/schedulicity-cares/ https://www.yogaalliance.org/New_RYS_Standards    

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast  Ep 126: Body Mindful Yoga with Jennifer Kreatsoulas   Description: This episode deals with a topic that impacts so many of us and our students: body image and making peace with the bodies we have. In the USA, up to 30 million people suffer from an eating disorder, and worldwide, almost 70 million. Yoga can be a powerful tool to navigate the daily challenges of recovery from eating disorders, or even to help people accept their bodies.    Jennifer Kreatsoulas is a certified yoga therapist specializing in eating disorders and body image. As an inspirational speaker and the author of Body Mindful Yoga: Create a Powerful and Affirming Relationship With Your Body, she helps others who struggle with their bodies find peace of mind with yoga and mindfulness practices. She also provides yoga therapy online and in-person, and coaches healthcare and yoga professionals.   For over 20 years, Jennifer has struggled with anorexia, and she reveals how that inspired her work in helping people who struggle with their bodies through yoga. Shannon and Jennifer discuss what words and cues can be triggering and some alternatives you can use instead, as well as the general language in our culture around food, fitness, and fashion.   Being mindful of our bodies and creating an affirming relationship with our bodies is not easy, but it is work worth doing. This episode will surely shed new light on some of our practices in cueing during yoga classes, and how to be more aware of the language that we use and that surrounds us.   Key Takeaways: [5:25] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Jennifer Kreatsoulas. [7:18] Who is Jennifer and what is the work she does? [9:35] What is an eating disorder? [12:50] In the US, 30 million people are affected by eating disorders. [14:26] What made Jennifer decide that yoga would be a part of her recovery? [16:14] What are some examples of triggering words or actions? [21:11] Jennifer and Shannon discuss the importance of educating and empowering students with the language you use, as well as bringing inquiry into the class. [24:20] We're often told to love our bodies, but that is hard to do sometimes. [26:18] Jennifer shares some of the language around body parts that can be sensitive. [31:50] What are some other verbal cues to pay attention to? [34:05] Movement in a yoga class may not come as easily to beginners as it does to us as yoga teachers, who have been doing it for years. [35:51] What are some of the best practices surrounding body mindful yoga? [40:34] There is so much power in our words - we need to be mindful of how our words can hurt ourselves, hurt others. [45:01] Who is Jennifer's target for her book, Body Mindful Yoga? [46:00] Jennifer also offers mentorship for healthcare professionals and yoga teachers. [50:03] Jennifer shares some words of compassion for people who are not feeling confident in their bodies. [52:13] Don't forget to get a copy of Jennifer's book, and do check out her website to learn more about her work. [53:27] Shannon shares her biggest takeaways from this interview.   Links: Pelvic Health Professionals Jennifer Kreatsoulas  Body Mindful Yoga: Create a Powerful and Affirming Relationship With Your Body, by Jennifer Kreatsoulas The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 048: Eating Disorder Education for Yoga Teachers with Tabitha Farrar Eating Disorder Recovery Podcast by Tabitha Farrar Yoga for Pelvic Health Teacher Training in Meaford, Ontario   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity   Quotes from this episode:   "[An eating disorder] affects people of all ages, of all genders, of all races, socioeconomic backgrounds."   "We're all learning how to love ourselves better, and we all have our obstacles to doing that."   "If we want to use that language, let's make it empowering and educate our students on what's actually happening in their bodies, and what it means."   "Find the language that resonates with you most authentically."

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Ep 125: How to Get Unstuck with Shira Gura   Description: Do you encounter a feeling of being stuck, as a business owner, or even in your own personal life? You feel like you can’t move forward, you can’t make a decision, and you may even have students who come to your yoga classes to help them get unstuck. Shira Gura, an expert in helping people get unstuck, has just the tools to help you and your students.   Shira Taylor Gura is the creator of The S.T.U.C.K. Method®, author of Getting unSTUCK: Five Simple Steps to Emotional Well-Being, host of the Getting Unstuck podcast, and creator of Consideration Cards. Shira’s own journey in feeling stuck in different areas of her life helped her discover tools to use to help herself and others.   With her five-step S.T.U.C.K Method, Shira coaches Shannon through some areas in her business that she has been feeling stuck. They discuss what it means to be stuck, why people often fall into the same areas of “stuck-ness” in their lives, and why it’s so important to take time to do this work on yourself.   This is such an informative episode with valuable tips and actions you can take immediately to get unstuck in your business or relationships, and to help others in your life get unstuck with things they’re struggling with. Tune in to the end to find out more about Shira’s special giveaway too!   Key Takeaways: [5:40] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Shira Gura [7:26] Where did Shira's yoga journey begin? [9:57] How did Shira get started becoming a STUCK coach and educator? [15:39] Shira used to blog every week about where she was feeling stuck. She shares one of her more popular stories that really resonated with her audience. [19:34] How can you figure out if you're stuck? [20:35] Shira talks through an example of where a yoga teacher might get stuck, and how they can use her method to get un-stuck. [24:06] Shira coaches Shannon with her stuck-ness around starting her new venture, Pelvic Health Professionals. [32:45] What are some tools Shira recommends to help you feel your emotions instead of avoiding them? [34:51] Ask yourself 'what are the beliefs that are creating that emotion?', and how can you flip that belief? [42:43] The last step in the method is to wrap up with self compassion. [44:21] Shannon and Shira recap the S.T.U.C.K method. [51:39] Get in touch with Shira via her website, and do check out her podcast and book too.  [52:10] Shira leaves us with some final thoughts. [54:09] Shira has a special giveaway!   Links: Pelvic Health Professionals Shira Gura Getting Unstuck: Five Simple Steps to Emotional Well-Being, by Shira Gura Getting Unstuck Podcast The Getting unSTUCK Tribe Facebook Group Shelly Prosko Podcast Episodes Stuck on My Grey, by Shira Gura Consideration Cards Yoga for Pelvic Health Teacher Training in Meaford, Ontario   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity   Quotes from this episode:   "I was basically trying to use mindfulness to help me get out of the stuck spots, but ... I found mindfulness wasn't enough."   "I recognized that this tool was something for anyone and everyone who felt stuck in their lives and needed a tool to help them out."   "If you're doubtful, if you're not sure if you're stuck or not, you probably are."   "Every emotion that you have, that is being created by a thought. Because thoughts create emotions."   "Those stuck spots, the recurring ones, will stay in your life forever until you learn the lesson you're supposed to learn from it."

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Ep 124: Enneagram for Yoga Entrepreneurs with Sarajane Case   Description: How much does your personality type influence how you share yoga and run your business? What traits or qualities might your students display, depending on their personality type, and how does that influence their experience of yoga? Sarajane Case is an Enneagram expert, and she shares just how you can harness the power of your personality to influence your business and life.   Sarajane Case is the founder of Enneagram & Coffee, where she works with people through online courses, in-person workshops and business masterminds. She uses the Enneagram as a tool for self-exploration, expression & entrepreneurship, and helps people build and nurture their relationships with themselves.   Learning our personality type is a great way to come to a compassionate understanding of who we are. Sarajane explains more about the Enneagram assessment, and the distinguishing characteristics of the different personality types. She also has some tips on how you can harness your personality characteristics in your own yoga business. Sarajane also recounts the experience of having her Instagram account go viral and why she focuses on Instagram as her main platform to reach her audience.   Whether you’ve always been curious about personality types and how they influence your work and business, or if you’ve heard about the Enneagram assessment and are interested to find out more about it, this episode is sure to be a good listen.   Key Takeaways: [3:36] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Sarajane Case. [5:27] Who is Sarajane and what does she do? She also shares a profound moment she experienced in her first yoga class. [8:13] What is the Enneagram and what got Sarajane interested in looking at it? [10:15] Sarajane shares a lot of small nuggets of information on her Instagram account, because all the information about your personality can be quite overwhelming. [11:33] How can you go about finding out what type you are? [12:54] Sarajane explains how people can see themselves as different types, and what that could mean. [15:25] What are some of the main distinguishing characteristics of each personality type? [19:56] How do people who have taken the Enneagram try to change certain aspects of their personality? [21:41] How can the Enneagram help us as business owners and entrepreneurs? [25:30] What type are yoga teachers most likely to be? What are their superpowers, and how might they feel out of balance in their businesses? [28:50] Sarajane highly recommends for business owners who are growing their team to have their team members take the Enneagram to find complementary strengths. [29:37] Sarajane already had a strong following on Instagram. When she started Enneagram  & Coffee, it blew up. What caused that? [34:44] What are some of the things that have helped Sarajane build her personal Instagram account? [36:15] Sarajane's business is mainly on Instagram. [37:14] What are some resources business owners can tap into to learn more about the Enneagram? [39:06] What are some of Sarajane's final thoughts on the Enneagram? [41:29] Have you taken the Enneagram, or are you thinking about taking it? We'd love to hear from you!   Links: Sarajane Case Enneagram & Coffee on Instagram Sarajane Case on Instagram Enneagram & Coffee Podcast Myers-Briggs Personality Test DiSC Profile Enneagram Test - Integrative9.com The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 094: Instagram Content Strategy and Stories with Tyler McCall The Road Back to You, by Ian Morgan Cron and Suzanne Stabile Typology Podcast Enneagram Summit Yoga for Pelvic Health Teacher Training in Meaford, Ontario Pelvic Health Professionals The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 120: Teach Private Yoga Online with Yael Oppenheim   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity   Quotes from this episode:   "Everything about [the Enneagram] is internal. It's your motivations, it's your basic fears, it's your coping mechanisms."   "What the Enneagram shows us is that we're all just trying our best with what we have and what we've been given."   "I am very cautious with the Enneagram to express it in a way that is all about acceptance, and self-acceptance, and self-compassion."   "I think that I definitely lead with how can I benefit the people who are here. If you've agreed to follow me, I want to make sure that I'm leaving you better than you found me."  

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Ep 123: Habits for Health & Business with James Clear   Description: How do you cultivate good habits that improve your life, and break bad habits that hold you back? On this episode, James Clear, author of Atomic Habits, reveals more about why habits are so crucial to your success and how to create, change and break habits that impact your business and life.   Apart from being a New York Times-bestselling author, James is the creator of Habits Academy, and international speaker. He combines ideas from a wide range of disciplines to create self-improvement tips for habits, decision-making, and continuous improvement, all based on proven scientific research.   James dives into the nitty-gritty of everything to do with habits - how they are formed, why they have such a huge impact on your health and business, and his tried-and-tested strategies for making small changes that will transform your habits and deliver remarkable results. He also shares hacks to help you reduce your social media usage and stop procrastination!   If you’ve been wanting to make your own yoga practice a habit, or if you need help creating routines to run your business better, this episode is full of tips that you can put into practice immediately.   Key Takeaways: [5:57] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - James Clear. [7:09] When did James' work with habits begin? [8:43] What is a habit? [12:59] Shannon and James discuss an example of how to create a habit that comes before a ritual or practice. [00:15:14] Do habits need to happen at the same time every day, and do they need to be a daily practice? [18:16] How can you hold on to your habits when you are traveling and the context is entirely different? Habit stacking can help! [21:13] James gets a lot of website traffic and book sales around the New Year as people use their momentum of the fresh start to try to change their habits. What is his advice for people who want to change everything, and get overwhelmed? [25:41] How does James approach failing to build habits or falling away from a practice? [29:12] Perfectionism or wanting your habit to be perfect can kill your progress. James has some strategies to get past that, and how that ties in to identity-based habits. [35:03] How can yoga teachers build habits in their businesses, particularly in areas like accounting or marketing? [40:55] What kind of goals does James help people achieve? [42:58] What are James' tips for people who tend to procrastinate? [48:14] Shannon and James discuss rewards as a way to build habits, and if that could potentially turn into something negative. [52:20] What can help people focus in the age of social media, email and constant distractions? [57:53] Check out James' work and his book, Atomic Habits, at his websites. [58:26] What is a habit James is struggling with right now? [59:44] Shannon's biggest takeaway from this interview is the idea of casting a vote for who you are as a person through your actions. What's yours?   Links: James Clear Atomic Habits, by James Clear Habits Academy The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 096: How to Create a Yoga Practice Habit with Matt Kowald The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 122: Productivity for Yoga Teachers with Amber De La Garza Habit Journal BJ Fogg Freedom News Feed Eradicator for Facebook - Chrome Web Store DF Tube (Distraction Free for YouTube™)   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity   Quotes from this episode:   "Time is just one element of context, and so habits are linked to a particular context."   "One reason why people sometimes struggle to build a new habit is that they're trying to build a new habit in their old environment."   "It's almost never the first mistake that ruins you. It's the spiral of repeated mistakes that follows from that."   "Every action you take is a vote for the kind of person you want to become."   "Just knowing your numbers gives you confidence in your ability to run the business side of it."  

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Ep 122: Productivity for Yoga Teachers with Amber De La Garza   Description: Are you struggling with productivity and finding enough time to do all the things?  On this episode, Amber De La Garza, The Productivity Specialist, shares strategies to help you become more productive and achieve your business goals.   Amber is a sought-after coach, trainer, speaker, writer, and host of the Productivity Straight Talk podcast. She helps driven entrepreneurs execute actionable solutions to maximize profits, reduce stress, and make time for what matters most.   There seem to be an endless number of tasks that we have to do to run our yoga businesses, and not enough time. Amber reveals the four buckets of highly productive activities we should be focusing our time on, and some strategies that you can put into action right now.   Whether you’ve been feeling stressed and overwhelmed by the number of tasks you have to do to run your business, or you want to improve your productivity to give yourself more time to do the things that you love - Amber has just the tips, strategies and advice you need.   Key Takeaways: [4:14] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Amber De La Garza. [6:28] How did Amber get into the industry of productivity? [10:47] Shannon and Amber discuss how she found her niche as the productivity specialist. [12:08] What is productivity? [14:03] Amber shares an example of how she incorporates productivity in her personal life. [16:25] Amber breaks down the differences between productivity, organization and efficiency. [21:02] Money mindset - how can yoga teachers not feel guilty about charging for their services? [24:53] In your business, one of the four buckets highly productive activities is marketing and visibility. [30:36] The second bucket is sales. Amber explains why making the ask is so important, and some examples of how to do it. [38:21] The third bucket is servicing the client, but remember that it doesn't stand alone! [41:25] Bucket #4 is leadership. Amber reveals how this ties back to buckets 1, 2 and 3. [43:52] How much time should you be dedicating to each bucket of activities? [44:54] Amber dives into some visibility activities she does in her own business. [48:18] What's the best way to deal with other activities like answering emails and doing financials that aren't part of the highly productive activities buckets? [52:01] Hiring out administrative work and activities that are not in your zone of genius is a great way to increase your productivity. [57:40] Check out Amber's podcast and her website to find out more about her strategies for improving productivity! [59:23] Shannon shares her own takeaways from this interview.   Links: Amber De La Garza Productivity Straight Talk Podcast High-Value Activities Identifier Freebie Voxer Live Q&A Call The Connected Yoga Teacher Facebook Group   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity   Quotes from this episode:   "I'm so busy working in my business, I have no time to work on my business."   "[Productivity] is a skill set that can be learned. And as long as you feel like you can learn something new, this can be something learned to help you in your personal and business life."   "[Productivity is] investing your best time into your best activities."   "At the end of the day, your business is not a business if it's not making money."   "Organization is not the same as productivity, and neither is efficiency."   "Not knowing that something is going to work 100% isn't a reason to not take action."   "The key to have this consistent revenue is to be consistent in all three of these buckets."

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Ep 121: Yoga for Pelvic Health with Shannon Crow   Description:   Why is yoga such an amazing gift for pelvic health? How does knowing this information and using it change the way we practice and teach yoga? In this episode, Shannon shares more about one of her favorite topics yoga for pelvic health.   Shannon reveals her own personal experiences of going through three pregnancies and births with no idea about pelvic health, and how finding out more about the topic ignited her passion in the topic. She talks more about the four key elements of yoga for pelvic health - breath, alignment, movement and information - and why yoga makes such a difference.   After learning more about pelvic health, Shannon started to incorporate some of the things she learned into her own yoga practice, and how she shared yoga with her students. She walks us through some simple examples you can practice, try out and share with your yoga students.   If you’ve been wondering about how to improve your pelvic health in some way or have students who have approached you with questions or concerns relating to pelvic health, this episode has some great information that will change the way you practice and share yoga.   Key Takeaways: [4:14] Where did Shannon's passion for pelvic health begin? [7:13] Shannon shares her first experience of meeting a pelvic floor physiotherapist. [10:30] What are the four key elements of yoga for pelvic health? [11:15] Element 1: Breath - How does breath relate to pelvic health? [14:23] Element 2: Alignment - Focus on the yoga student in front of you and their unique needs. [17:16] Element 3: Movement - Movement is a key element in our overall yoga practice, and also in pelvic health. [19:41] Element 4: Information - Internal information is just as important as external information sources. [23:10] Shannon explains how to apply these four elements to Bridge. [28:49] Shannon shares more about rib cage breath vs belly breathing. [30:53] Shannon no longer cues mula bandha / core engagement / pelvic floor engagement in her classes. Why? [35:26] Share your thoughts and questions about these practices with Shannon, and check out her new offering around pelvic health!   Links: Pelvic Health Professionals Website Other The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episodes on Pelvic Health: 008: Core Breath with Kim Vopni 009: Kegels, Mula Bandha and Pelvic Health with Shelly Prosko 033: A New Perspective on Diastasis Recti with Dr. Sinead Dufour 007: Breath & Pelvic Health with Trista Zinn 069: Pelvic Organ Prolapse with Dr. Sarah Duvall 075: Pelvic Girdle Pain with Dr. Sinead Dufour 077: Interstitial Cystitis with Helena Spears 079: Endometriosis [Part 1] with Kimberly Castello 080: Endometriosis [Part 2] with Dustienne Miller Mama Nurture Janice Taylor, Pelvic Health Physiotherapist The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 116: Pain Language with Shelly Prosko (Part 1) The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 117: Pain Language with Shelly Prosko (Part 2) The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 073: 8 Limbs of Yoga [Part 1] with Shannon Crow Yoga Anytime (PROMO CODE: CROW) Yoga for Pelvic Health Training Live Q&A Call The Connected Yoga Teacher Facebook Group Yoga for Pelvic Health Teacher Training, November 2019   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity   Quotes from this episode:   "In the three pregnancies and births that I had, no one talked to me about pelvic health. I didn't even know about my pelvic floor."   "The four elements to yoga for pelvic health, and why yoga is such a great tool to use for pelvic health, ... are breath, alignment, movement, and information."   "There is this amazing information that comes from internal, and this is where we provide the space as yoga teachers for students to come to an awareness of what's going on in their body and their mind."   "There is never a time anymore where I am working with a group class and telling them all to engage their pelvic floor."

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Ep 120: Teach Private Yoga Online with Yael Oppenheim   Description: Have you ever wondered what it would be like to teach yoga online, live, in a virtual class via video chat with a student? We’re all using technology in a variety of ways in our yoga businesses, but Yael Oppenheim is taking teaching yoga to a whole new platform.   Yael Oppenheim is the founder of FitMyTime, a marketplace for remote personal fitness and yoga classes, founded in 2018. She was inspired to create FitMyTime when she realized there were no options available for people who wanted to work out from home with the guidance of a personal trainer or instructor. Since its launch last year, over 150 instructors have signed up, and the platform continues to grow.   Virtual yoga or fitness classes may seem unusual, but it definitely caters to a need in the marketplace for both students and teachers. Yael explains more about the platform, the business model, and some of the challenges as well as the benefits of using FitMyTime for both teachers and students.   If you’re thinking about expanding your offerings to include teaching online, or if you’re just curious about what it will feel like to share yoga from behind a screen, this episode is going to be an eye-opener.   Key Takeaways: [3:07] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Yael Oppenheim. [4:27] Where did Yael's yoga journey begin? [5:45] What does Yael do now and who does she do it for? [6:53] What is the platform, FitMyTime? [7:42] How do teachers and students connect with each other virtually? [10:49] What motivated Yael to start FitMyTime? [15:02] Yael shares some of the challenges yoga teachers, fitness instructors and yoga studios face, as well as her own initial experience taking lessons online. [20:14] How has the FitMyTime platform grown? [21:10] How can yoga teachers apply to teach on this platform? [23:00] Students also have the opportunity to try out different teachers on the platform. [25:03] How do the payments work on this platform? [26:34] Shannon and Yael discuss waiver forms, insurance for teaching online, and scheduling details of FitMyTime. [29:47] How many students are on the platform? [32:21] How has it been for Yael growing her business? [36:01] Check out the platform on the website FitMyTime. [36:39] Shannon and Yael discuss the different groups of people who might be interested in working out with personal trainers online. [39:16] Shannon shares some of her key takeaways from this interview.   Links: Yael Oppenheim on LinkedIn FitMyTime.com The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 006: Teaching Online Yoga with Rosslyn Kemerer The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 078: Creating an Online Yoga Studio with Brea Johnson Zoom Google Hangouts Skype PayPal Live Q&A   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity   Quotes from this episode:   "FitMyTime is a platform, a marketplace, that connects yoga instructors and fitness trainers with trainees, with students from around the world for the purpose of an online, live yoga classes or fitness workouts."   "The platform enables people ... [to] find instructors for different kinds of workout types."   "One of the things that I learned is that the connection between the teacher and students, not only in yoga but in general, is really reliant on the chemistry between two people."   "It's a great way to find teachers on one hand, and on the other hand, it's a great way for teachers to expand their work opportunities."

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast 119: Travel and Teach Yoga with Eva Hamilton   Description: Have you dreamed of teaching yoga while you travel?? How can you create a feasible yoga business teaching yoga while traveling? If these questions have ever crossed your mind, Eva Hamilton is just the yoga entrepreneur you need to hear from.   Eva’s first yoga teacher training was in 2008, and since then she has completed multiple courses and trainings in yin yoga, restorative yoga, Thai yoga massage, and much more. She previously owned and operated a yoga studio in Canada, but in the past two years, Eva has traveled to several countries offering yoga teacher trainings, specialized yoga workshops, yoga retreats, online yoga classes and more. Her own practice is grounded in transforming feelings of anxiety into freedom, and she strives to help others to do the same in her classes.   Teaching yoga while traveling the world sounds glamorous and amazing, but it comes with its own set of challenges. Eva opens up about her own struggles with anxiety, and how she found her way to a path of teaching yoga while traveling. Shannon and Eva also discuss the practical aspects of moving abroad to teach yoga - finances, visa requirement, contracts and more, as well as what it’s like to teach yoga online.   If you’ve been wondering how to incorporate more travel into your yoga teaching career, or want to learn more about connecting with nomadic yoga teachers to bring what they have to offer to your yoga studio, this episode will be a real treat.   Key Takeaways: [3:13] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Eva Hamilton. [5:27] Where did Eva's yoga journey begin? [8:42] How did Eva move from her realization that she had high anxiety and that yoga was helping, to wanting to travel the world? [10:56] Where did Eva travel, and how did she deal with moments of high anxiety? [13:03] In 2018, Eva traveled and taught in 5 countries. What were some of the things she learned along the way? [15:00] Eva reveals more about the financial aspects of teaching yoga while traveling. [18:35] Shannon and Eva discuss her transition into a more traveling path. [19:56] What is Eva's advice for yoga teachers who want to become traveling yoga teachers? [21:42] If you're considering moving abroad to teach yoga, it may be most beneficial to talk to a yoga teacher who is already teaching there to find out more. [23:25] Eva shares more about her life in Thailand as a yoga teacher. [25:32] What does Eva's average week look like? [29:21] Do you feel like you're running away from something, or do you feel like you're running toward something? [30:29] Making new connections has opened up new opportunities for Eva. [33:32] Eva and Shannon dive into some of her challenges in teaching online. [35:44] Eva shares some of her thoughts around competition in the yoga space. [38:09] Get in touch with Eva via her website or on social media to find out more about her work. [39:46] Share your questions in our Facebook group or in the comments! Links: Eva Hamilton Eva Hamilton on Facebook Eva Hamilton on Instagram Yoga Trade Yoga Jobs Alll Over the World Facebook Group Insurance for Yoga Teachers How to Find Royalty-Free Yoga Images Where to Teach Yoga The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 073: 8 Limbs of Yoga [Part 1] with Shannon Crow The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 074: 8 Limbs of Yoga [Part 2] with Jennie Lee Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity   Quotes from this episode: "I think I really made a strong connection to the practice in my first Savasana."   "I think a lot of people make the assumption because I was young that I was really attached to yoga as a physical practice, but for me it was always much more to do with this bridge between the mind and the emotions."   "I really believe yoga is not an answer in and of itself, but when we partner it with other forms of care, it can be extremely successful."   "A job letter is great, but get a contract before you uproot your life."   "It's a certain amount of stepping beyond the fear, trusting my intuition, but also do the work and the research and figure out what's going to make sense for you."   "Do you feel like you're running away from something, or do you feel like you're running toward something?"   "To me, what's the most meaningful part of teaching yoga is that human connection."  

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Ep 118: Planning a Yoga Conference with Allison Rissel   Description: If you’ve ever attended a yoga conference, you can imagine how much time, money and effort goes into it. But how do you get started planning, marketing and executing such an event? What are some do’s and don’ts of planning a yoga conference? Allison Rissel, joins Shannon on this episode to dive into the nitty gritty of planning a yoga conference.   Allison became a yoga teacher in 2006, and uses her master’s degree in Exercise Science alongside her extensive anatomy and biomechanics training to work with a variety of clients. However, her passion lies in training yoga teachers to create their own yoga communities. She does this by offering yoga teacher trainings and a range of services to help yoga teachers bring their yoga conference dreams to life.   On this episode, Allison reveals all the things that go on behind-the-scenes in planning and executing a yoga conference. From the schedule of events at the conference, to marketing strategies to promote and advertise the conference, to hard lessons learned along the way - Allison shares all her insight and experience.   Whether you’re contemplating planning a yoga conference, or want to know how to become a vendor or teacher to make new connections within the yoga community and expand your reach, this interview is full of actionable tips you can put to use immediately.   Key Takeaways: [3:40] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Allison Rissel [5:10] What does Allison do, and who does she serve? [8:18] What in Allison's background enabled her to feel empowered to create her first yoga conference? [9:53] When did Allison host the first North Dakota Yoga Conference? How did it turn out? [11:30] How long did it take for Allison to plan for the event? How long did she advertise the event? [13:17] How many teachers did Allison have sharing at the conference? What was the schedule like for the conference? [15:12] Who were the attendees at the yoga conference? [16:32] What has Allison learned along the way? [19:29] What did Allison change or implement in her business after her consultation call with Shannon? [23:58] Allison breaks down some of the numbers from her conferences. [25:26] How does Allison ensure that 75% of the conference participants have signed up by the end of the Early Bird promotion? [27:30] Shannon and Allison discuss Bismarck, North Dakota. [29:27] What does Allison's preparation look like the week before the conference? [33:37] What is Allison doing during the conference? [35:36] How does Allison theme her conference? [37:52] Allison explains more about how she attracts teachers, vendors and participants to her conference. [39:30] How did Allison manage to turn a profit in the first year of running the conference? [42:08] Allison shares how the conference acts as the top of her funnel. [43:25] Find out more about Allison's yoga conference in 2019 by visiting her website. [45:58] Share a conference you love, or any questions you have for Allison!   Links: Allison Rissel Allison Rissel on Facebook North Dakota Yoga Conference North Dakota Yoga Conference on Facebook South Dakota Yoga Conference Yoga Conference Calendar Yoga for Pelvic Health Teacher Training   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity   Quotes from this episode:   "I saw the impact that yoga had, and that yoga teacher trainings were having in the towns I was at, and it was incredible, and I really wanted to spread that across the whole state."   "I saw the impact that yoga and yoga teacher trainings were having in the towns I visited. It was incredible and I really wanted to spread that across the whole state." (revised Sam)   "I don't know if it's something I could have done by myself, but having two other team mates really helped motivate me and really helped bring this whole dream to reality."   "The biggest thing I wish I would have known beforehand is how much time and money is really involved."   "I want to make other teachers feel really empowered and start their own businesses."   "No matter how well you plan, that week before, something's going to go wrong and there's going to be a lot of work to do."

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast 116: Pain Language with Shelly Prosko (Part 2)   Description: How important is communication and language when working with yoga students, especially those who are dealing with persistent (chronic) pain? The answer is - extremely. We don't want our yoga students to become fearful of movement, or trigger a pain response with our cues or tone.This episode is a continuation of the conversation from last week with Shelly Prosko on the topic of pain language in yoga.   Shelly is a physiotherapist, yoga therapist, author, international speaker and educator with over 20 years of experience in the field. She is also a Pain Care Yoga Trainer, and works to expand knowledge and education on topics surrounding persistent (chronic) pain, pelvic health, compassion and professional burnout. She is currently co-authoring the textbook, Yoga and Science in Pain Care: Treating the Person in Pain.   On the previous episode, Shelly shared cues that empower our yoga students instead of using cues that instill fear of movement. This week, Shannon and Shelly discuss the importance of self-compassion and the language we can use around that, as well as how we can make yoga "safe" - both by creating safe spaces and through the use of our language. Shelly shares more about the topics covered in her upcoming book, and why alignment is so important as a part of yoga.   This conversation is such an eye-opener and will surely provide you with a new perspective on language, how we communicate with cues in a yoga class, and how it all ties in to the way we serve our yoga students who are dealing with persistent pain.   Key Takeaways: [3:50] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Shelly Prosko. [4:35] Shelly shares more about the idea of having self-compassion and the language around that. [6:21] What is an example of how someone might practice self-compassion? [11:27] As a yoga teacher, you want to help people find their own luxurious experience. [17:32] What is Shelly's book about? [20:36] What is "safe" yoga, and how can we achieve it? [27:19] Shelly breaks down the different aspects of language that we should be mindful of. [31:49] Shelly speaks more about the power of intention and visualization. [35:11] Shelly briefly touches on the topic of alignment in yoga. [43:08] Find out more about Shelly via her website, social media and YouTube. [44:11] Join the conversation by leaving a comment or joining our Live Q&A call.   Links: Shelly Prosko Shelly Prosko on Twitter Shelly Prosko on Facebook Shelly Prosko on YouTube The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 114: Compassion Fatigue with Diane Liska The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 115: The Polyvagal Theory and Yoga with Dr. Ginger Garner Kristin Neff Brene Brown Self-Care: The Dark Side, by Shelly Prosko The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 092: Accessible Yoga Begins with Language with Kesse Hodge, Chantel Ehler and Katie Juelson Live Q&A with Shannon Crow Follow Shannon Crow on Instagram Yoga for Pelvic Health Teacher Training in Meaford, Ontario   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity   Quotes from this episode: "I just would like to encourage people if they're interested to learn more about self-compassion and the language surrounding that, and then that will help you cue."   "As a yoga teacher, you want to help people find their own luxurious experience."   "The big question is well, how do you create a safe space? We talk about that a lot but how do you do it?"   "Let's cue alignment, but let's cue it to give [the students] a variable experience.”

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast 116: Pain Language with Shelly Prosko (Part 1)   Description: When people turn to yoga in search of healing, they often carry with them a lot of pain. As yoga teachers, it can be challenging and frustrating to know which words to choose when communicating with our students and giving cues, particularly for those who are dealing with persistent (chronic) pain. In part one of this two-part interview, Shelly Prosko joins Shannon to talk about this topic in a way that makes it playful and fun.   Shelly is a physiotherapist, yoga therapist, author, international speaker and educator with over 20 years of experience in the field. She is also a Pain Care Yoga Trainer, and works to expand knowledge and education on topics surrounding persistent (chronic) pain, pelvic health, compassion and professional burnout. She is currently co-authoring the textbook, Yoga and Science in Pain Care: Treating the Person in Pain.   Shannon and Shelly discuss the concepts of pain and some of the science behind pain  (hint: it’s not a ‘thing’, it’s a phenomenon and an experience!). When guiding a yoga class, some words we use innocently may either be empowering or triggering - Shelly shares more about some words to avoid, and her suggestions for alternatives.   This episode is full of Shelly’s tips and strategies for being more aware of language when guiding a yoga class. Whether you’re teaching a trauma-informed yoga class or just want to be more conscious of how your language can trigger and alleviate pain responses, you’re sure to learn something you can apply to your own classes right away.   Key Takeaways: [4:43] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Shelly Prosko. [5:36] What got Shelly interested in the topic of pain language? [9:58] Shelly explains the connotations of 'chronic' pain vs 'persistent' pain. [13:09] It's important to have self compassion and not get too caught up or stressed about always choosing the right words. [15:39] What do the terms 'neuroplasticity' and 'bioplasticity' mean? [19:03] When people get overwhelmed with language, they shut down - that's why it's important to keep conversations about language playful and exploratory. [21:16] How can language turn someone around from their negative pain story into sometime more empowering? Shelly shares an example. [25:23] How does Shelly approach changing the language used around pain - through explanations, or a gradual shift in language? [29:27] What are some of Shelly's cue considerations around pain language? [34:31] Shelly shares some alternatives that she prefers to use in giving cues. [43:23] What are some other "dos-and-don'ts" when it comes to communicating in your yoga class? [48:51] What is your main takeaway from this interview? Share your thoughts!   Links: Shelly Prosko The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 009: Kegels, Mula Bandha and Pelvic Health with Shelly Prosko The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 114: Compassion Fatigue with Diane Liska The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 115: The Polyvagal Theory and Yoga with Dr. Ginger Garner Neil Pearson on LinkedIn Explain Pain, by Dr. David S. Butler,  Prof. G. Lorimer Moseley Explain Pain Supercharged, by Dr. David S. Butler,  Prof. G. Lorimer Moseley The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 092: Accessible Yoga Begins with Language with Kesse Hodge, Chantel Ehler and Katie Juelson The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 067: Yoga for Every Body with Amber Karnes   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity   Quotes from this episode:   "For people in pain, that have been suffering from persistent pain or chronic pain for a long time, there can be certain changes in the brain and the nervous system that makes the nervous system more hypervigilant, ... or more sensitive."   "We have to also respect the lived experience of pain, meaning what are people in pain saying?"   "Our whole being potentially has the capacity for change."   "Pain is the output of the human."   "The output of the brain is the pain experience, and pain is not a thing. It's a phenomenon, it's an experience."   "With the giving the permission, just be cognizant about are we creating an environment that gives people the sense of safety, confidence and the courage."   "You don't have to tell people what to do or what they should be doing. You're just providing this experience, you're more their guide."  

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast 115: The Polyvagal Theory and Yoga with Dr. Ginger Garner   Description:   We all know that communication and language are important in a yoga class. But it’s not just about giving instructions and guidance about breathing or poses - it’s also how we communicate. The timber and volume of our voices, music or chanting in the class, even certain words, can have an effect on other people, but also ourselves, and it creates an internal response for both parties. This is all part of the polyvagal theory, and Dr. Ginger Garner joins Shannon on this episode to explain how this theory can influence how we teach, communicate and hold space as yoga teachers.   Dr. Garner is a trained doctor of physical therapy, licensed athletic trainer, professional yoga therapist, published author, and renowned educator. She strongly believes that health and healthcare should be approached holistically, and founded the Professional Yoga Therapy Institute®, the first yoga therapy certification for healthcare providers in the world.   The polyvagal theory, the wandering nerve, the use of sound, music, cues and communication in a yoga class, chronic pain - Shannon and Dr. Garner dive deep into these topics and more. Dr. Garner shares examples from her multi-decade career about the use of polyvagal theory in treating chronic pain, and highlights some tools yoga teachers can put into practice in their own classes.   Whether you want to improve how you communicate with your yoga students, or be more aware of the impact and influence something as simple as your voice could be having on your yoga classes, this episode is full of great information.   Key Takeaways: [2:56] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Dr. Ginger Garner [4:17] What got Dr. Garner into yoga, and what was her first experience with yoga like? [6:49] What is the main work that Dr. Garner does? [9:14] What is the polyvagal theory? [15:33] The polyvagal theory involves the vagus nerve, which Dr. Garner calls the wandering nerve. Why is it called that? [21:28] How does polyvagal theory apply to how yoga teachers cue and communicate in a class? [24:00] What does it look like when yoga teachers are trying to create that safe space? [27:14] In what way can yoga teachers use sound in their classes to affect vagal tone? [28:39] Shannon and Dr. Garner discuss eustress and distress and some examples. [30:56] Dr. Garner explains how sounding would play out in a yoga class. [33:26] What could be therapeutic for someone may be disassociating for someone else. Dr. Garner highlights some examples of this. [37:43] What does breathwork have to do with the nervous system? [43:19] Shannon shares an anecdote about her student who was suffering from chronic pain. [44:06] People can get stuck in a circle of chronic pain, and then turn to yoga as a means of breaking that cycle. [46:08] What are some tools that Dr. Garner suggests to overcome negative pattern? [55:15] Why do we forget to breathe in a way that helps us? [1:01:25] Shannon and Dr. Garner discuss the importance of integration of fields of study for more effective treatment. [1:03:53] Find out more about Dr. Garner and the work she does by visiting her websites - links below. [1:06:27] Shannon shares her biggest takeaways from this interview. Links: Dr. Ginger Garner .com Medical Therapeutic Yoga, by Dr. Ginger Garner Professional Yoga Therapy Institute Living Well Yoga in Healthcare Living Well Yoga in Healthcare on Instagram, Living Well Yoga in Healthcare on Facebook Be a Labrador, Not a Lizard (for vagal’s sake), by Dr. Ginger Garner Nervous System Hacks to Keep Calm (& Vagus On), by Dr. Ginger Garner Webinar - The 3 Diaphragms of the Body: Core Foundations for Health & Wellbeing Part I Webinar - The 3 Diaphragms of the Body: Core Foundations for Health & Wellbeing Part II Webinar - The Essential Vagus Nerve: Achieving Nervous System & Whole Health Balance Part I Webinar - The Essential Vagus Nerve: Achieving Nervous System & Whole Health Balance Part II The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 114: Compassion Fatigue with Diane Liska Fill Your Classes 3-Day Challenge for Yoga Teachers with Shannon Crow & Amanda McKinney   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity   Quotes from this episode:   "How I use yoga, how I use polyvagal theory, how it all comes together is to create a safe space for people who are in a lot of pain."   "When I'm teaching yoga teachers or I'm teaching healthcare providers to use yoga, ... I want them to be able to create a therapeutic landscape that is conducive to creating safety for that person."   "Sound can be a trigger, but it also can be a eustress, a positive stressor."   "Using sound as therapy and music as medicine is in its infancy still."   "Our biomedical system is quite broken."   "[Yoga] alone doesn't fix it, and [surgery] alone doesn't fix it, but together, it will. It can."

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast 114: Compassion Fatigue with Diane Liska   Description:   As yoga teachers, we come across people who come to yoga in search of healing, and we help to guide their experience and help them in their healing process. But this can take a toll on us, and lead to burnout and compassion fatigue over time. Diane Liska has some strategies for how best to develop resilience to compassion fatigue and evolve in our own professional practice as healers.   Diane is a Registered Psychotherapist with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field, specializing in the areas of trauma, attachment and neuroscience. She became a Certified Yoga Teacher in 2015, and now focuses on combining her expertise in the two fields to help her clients navigate personal challenges and connect with their inner resources to cultivate wholeness, resiliency and a strong body-mind connection.   In yoga-informed psychotherapy, Diane uses yoga and other somatic or body-based therapy practices to weave into her work of psychotherapy. She shares more about the differences between burnout and compassion fatigue, and some of the symptoms to look out for. Based on her experience, Diane suggests some exercises and strategies that increase resilience against compassion fatigue, and some tools you can use to overcome it.   If you’ve ever experienced times when you fall away from your own personal practice, or if you’re looking for tips on how to avoid compassion fatigue, this episode will give you the tools to build resilience against and overcome compassion fatigue. Key Takeaways: [3:15] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Diane Liska. [5:13] Which came first for Diane, psychotherapy or her yoga journey? [6:25] Why do we suffer from perfectionism? [8:40] What propelled Diane forward in her yoga-psychotherapy journey to where she is now? [10:17] What does Diane do? [11:21] What kind of clients does Diane work with? [11:47] What is compassion fatigue, and how is it related to burnout? [16:04] Shannon shares a personal anecdote of working with victim of trauma. [18:11] Diane briefly explains polyvagal theory. [22:33] What are the symptoms of compassion fatigue? [26:00] Diane shares some of her recommendations on how to prevent compassion fatigue. [31:50] Diane gives an example of what co-regulation would look like when working with a client. [32:38] Diane touches on the concept of compartmentalizing, and why it's not an effective method. [35:49] Another suggestion to combat compassion fatigue is to maintain your own personal practice. [38:11] Responsible healing that can also protect against compassion fatigue comprises of two aspects: self care and self awareness. [40:55] Shannon and Diane talk about the scope of practice as yoga teachers, and how compassion fatigue factors into that. [42:48] How many roles of care are you taking on? That plays a part in compassion fatigue as well. [45:43] What are some other tools that can be helpful? [48:38] What are some things that are not helpful if you are suffering from compassion fatigue? [51:10] When is it important to reach out outside of ourselves for help? [54:23] Get in touch with Diane via her website to learn more about her work and to work with her. [55:51] Shannon highlights her biggest takeaways from this interview with Diane. Links: Diane Liska Diane Liska on Facebook Diane Liska on Instagram Charles Figley - Compassion Fatigue Stephen Porges, Polyvagal Theory 3 different ways to engage with an individual in a therapeutic relationship - fixing, helping, serving Dr. Kristin Neff - Self compassion The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 100: Cultivating a Community of Professional Peers with Linda Sparrowe Fill Your Classes 3-Day Challenge for Yoga Teachers with Shannon Crow & Amanda McKinney Yoga for Pelvic Health Teacher Training Email Shannon   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity   Quotes from this episode:   "I found yoga really helpful for me at that time to address and help soothe some of my perfectionistic tendencies."   "I find that burnout and compassion fatigue very often get lumped together, and they're actually different. They can co-exist at the same time, but they are different."   "Compassion fatigue is different [from burnout] in that it's actually a form of trauma."   "As healers, we are holding space for and bearing witness to a lot of pain."   "Compassion fatigue is a result of healthy working physiology in the body."   "Serving ... is supporting an individual to fill their own needs and to heal themselves."   "We need to have this dual awareness of both of our experiences at the same time, to combat against compassion fatigue."   "The beauty of the nervous system is that it's extremely resilient."   "Connection is medicine."  

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast 113: Pinterest to Promote Your Yoga with Kate Ahl   Description: How important is Pinterest to your yoga business? If you’re like some of our yoga teachers, a significant portion of your website traffic may be coming from Pinterest - but it’s not the same as other social media platforms like Instagram or Facebook. That’s why we have Kate Ahl of Simple Pin to share more about how you can use Pinterest to promote your yoga business.   Kate Ahl is the Owner and Founder of Simple Pin Media, a Pinterest management company that helps business owners manage their Pinterest accounts and presence so they can focus on running their business. She also hosts the Simple Pin Podcast, where she shares useful actionable tips and strategies that can help you DIY your Pinterest marketing.   Shannon and Kate dissect how often to pin, what kind of content to pin, and even the kinds of images and fonts to us. She also answers some of Shannon’s questions around personal vs business accounts and resharing pins to other social media platforms. Kate also reveals why Pinterest functions as a powerful search engine, and why it’s such a great platform to tap into new markets.   If you’ve been wanting to create more awareness for your yoga business, or have been wondering how to connect with people across different generations, Pinterest may be your answer - and this episode is just what you need to dive right in.   Key Takeaways: [2:24] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Kate Ahl. [3:36] What does Kate do and how did she get started in this business? [5:09] Pinterest is not so much of a social platform like Instagram or Facebook, but it's more of a search engine. Kate explains what this means. [7:40] What is Kate's suggestion for the workflow on Pinterest? [9:34] Is there a ratio of your own pins to someone else's pins? [11:20] Kate breaks down the idea of pinning daily on Pinterest, and some tips on pinnable images. [14:47] How much text is too much text? [18:30] Kate comments on the practice of creating 10 pins for a particular piece of content. [19:21] What is Kate's advice for people who want to pin images that are not from your article? She walks us through an example. [21:47] What are Kate's thoughts on re-sharing pins to Instagram and Facebook? [23:49] What are Kate's tips for the beginner who wants to use Pinterest to grow their yoga business? [27:40] When it comes to websites and Pinterest, should you be creating images on your website with Pinterest in mind? [30:27] If you are into DIY and want to learn more about Pinterest marketing, check out Kate's podcast, Simple Pin Podcast. [31:10] What are some things to consider before hiring out your Pinterest marketing? [32:20] What is Kate's intake process for taking on new clients, depending on where they are in their Pinterest journey? [35:06] What are Kate's packages priced at? [37:02] Shannon and Kate discuss what the different generations are using Pinterest for. [39:23] Kate leaves us with some final thoughts about Pinterest. [41:25] Shannon shares the actions she's taking as a result of this interview with Kate. Share your Pinterest strategy with Shannon in the comments. Links: Kate Ahl, Simple Pin Media Simple Pin Podcast Simple Pin Pinterest Strategy Facebook Group The Connected Yoga Teacher on Pinterest Canva Craigslist PicMonkey Buffer CoSchedule Tailwind How to Master Tailwind - Simple Pin Media Course WordPress Simple Social Press Plugin for WordPress Tasty Pins Simple Pin Podcast Episode: Optimizing A Squarespace Website for Pinterest Marketing How to Create a Pinterest Business Account From Scratch, by Kate Ahl   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity   Quotes from this episode:   "We often refer to Pinterest as a search-and-discovery platform, and the joke is that it's the introvert's platform."   "You're building awareness of your company through your knowledge, through your articles that you're writing."   "If somebody comes to your Pinterest page or profile, do they understand who you are and what you represent?"   "You want to see your Pinterest boards as a curated resource for your audience."   "Consistency is best."   "I think the biggest problem when we're doing Pinterest images and we're not graphically-inclined, is we spend hours overthinking it."   "Just jump in with both feet, play around, and don't overthink it."

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast 112: Niche Down to Market Your Yoga with Amanda McKinney   Description:   Picking a niche is something that can be scary to a lot of us. Particularly as yoga teachers who believe that yoga is for everyone and that we can help everybody, we feel that picking a niche excludes people we want to help. But have you ever thought that specializing is the best way for you to bring yoga to more people? Amanda McKinney is a Marketing Coach for Yoga Teachers, and on this episode, she explains exactly why niching down is the best way to market your yoga.   Amanda provides online courses and group coaching to help yoga teachers market themselves authentically, so that they can earn a living sharing yoga with others, without the burn out that comes with catering to everyone. She has some great information on why it’s so important for you to specialize, and some practical strategies to help you discover your niche.   In this episode (which was also a Live Q&A session!) Amanda tackles difficult questions from yoga teachers, like how to decide which topics to blog about, and how much time you need to market a yoga retreat. She also offers advice on dealing with mindset issues around niching down, and some tips on marketing yourself as a yoga teacher.   Whether you’ve been a yoga teacher for years, or are just starting out on your yoga entrepreneurship journey - Amanda’s insights and tips on niching down and marketing are sure to help you in your business. Tune in to also find out more about the 3-day content challenge and joint group coaching by Amanda and Shannon!   Key Takeaways: [2:43] Shannon introduces her guest - Amanda McKinney. [3:35] Who does Amanda work with, and what is the work that she does? [4:41] Amanda explains the story behind why her website focuses on yoga teachers as business owners. [7:33] Why do yoga teachers need a niche? [9:03] Amanda shares her journey of how and why she niched down in her own business. [9:43] How specific does a yoga niche need to be? [11:47] What are some of the roadblocks that stop people from niching down? [14:39] Having a specific niche helps people give you referrals. [16:50] How can you discover your yoga niche? [19:30] Listener question from Valeria: How do you identify the topics that clients want to hear about if you host a yoga-focused blog? [25:20] Listener question from Sue: If I'm marketing a retreat in September, how soon do I start putting the info out there to market it? How early is too early? [29:32] What does marketing mean as a yoga teacher? [35:50] What do you do if you can't decide between two or more really good niche ideas? How do you pick? [37:52] How can yoga teachers combat the feeling of 'Who am I to do this?' when picking their niche? [40:56] What is Amanda's advice for yoga teachers who feel like they need to be ready or perfect before they start on their business journey? [44:26] Listener question from Kristen: I'm having a hard time describing trauma-informed yoga in a way that makes sense to other people. [47:59] How long does it take to develop or find a niche? [52:05] What's Amanda's response to people who say that niching down has been a challenge? [55:10] What is the work that Amanda is really excited about right now? [58:34] Shannon shares her key takeaways from this episode.   Links: Amanda McKinney Free Guide on How to Niche Amanda McKinney on Instagram Amanda McKinney’s Facebook Group Online Group Coaching with Amanda McKinney The Connected Yoga Teacher Episode 107: Launch & Promote Your Yoga Offering with Abby Herman Steph Crowder The Stoked Yogi Clockwork, by Mike Michalowicz 3 Day Challenge with Shannon and Amanda   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity   Quotes from this episode:   "So many yoga teachers are not told and informed, they are a business owner once they graduate with their Yoga Teacher Training Certificate!"   "I will have walked the path that my clients and students walk, which I think is the best way to get to know your target audience."   "Yoga is for everyone, and that actually makes the point of niching down more important."   "As soon as you narrow down and focus on one particular thing, it takes away that competition."   "For every $500 that the retreat is, you need 90-days lead time."   "Knowing that there is no other one like you out there, that you will attract the people who will learn best from you."   "The more you can say it, the clearer it's going to be."   "Knowing what you don't like is just as important as knowing what you like."   "Attracting the right person to work with you is important, but repelling the others is just as important."

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast 111: Teaching Children's Yoga with Shakta Khalsa   Description:   Have you ever shared yoga with children? If you have, you might have realized that teaching yoga to adults, and sharing yoga with a room full of children are completely different. Shakta Khalsa is a leading expert on children and yoga, and on this episode the “fairy godmother” of children’s yoga shares tips and strategies for teaching children’s yoga more effectively.   Shakta is the Founder and Director of Radiant Child® Yoga,  an internationally-known training program for teaching children’s yoga and working with children consciously. She is a parent, Montessori educator and a yoga professional recognized by Yoga Journal magazine as one of the top five Kundalini Yoga teachers in the world. She has also authored multiple books, and produced  albums and award-winning DVDs   On this episode Shakta shares her journey to yoga through Kundalini yoga, and explains how that formed the basis for her to start sharing yoga with children. She explains the differences between teaching yoga to adults vs children, as well as her unique strategies and tips for working with children. She reveals the inspiration behind some of her books, shares tips on how you can go about writing your own book, and talks about her own challenges in running and scaling a yoga business.If you are involved in children’s yoga in any form or fashion, or if you need some tips on running and scaling a yoga business, or if you need inspiration to write a book, you will surely get lots of great nuggets of wisdom from this interview with Shakta.   Key Takeaways: [3:47] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Shakta Khalsa. [5:55] Shakta shares the experience of her first yoga class in 1972. [7:39] Who was Shakta's first Kundalini yoga teacher? [9:11] What was Shakta's journey of becoming a yoga teacher? [11:52] What did Shakta's friends and family think when she went down the path of being a yoga teacher? [13:51] Shakta was also a Montessori teacher. She explains how she realized she should be sharing yoga with children. [18:31] Shannon and Shakta discuss how to share yoga with children - what works with adults, doesn't work with children! [19:42] What is the basis for the book Fly like a Butterfly? [22:45] Shakta explains how she uses yoga to control the class when sharing children's yoga. [24:48] How does relaxation in a children’s yoga class, for example, look different from the adult Savasana? [27:18] What made Shakta think that children can begin yoga? [30:08] When children go through a phase of resisting yoga, Shakta has a set of yoga warrior cards she uses. [31:44] What are some of Shakta's biggest tips for teaching children's yoga? [35:08] What are some things to consider when deciding which children's yoga teacher training to take? [38:23] Shakta teaches a 200-hour Radiant Child Family. She explains more about the course. [40:45] What is Shakta's advice for someone who is struggling with mindset issues around treating yoga as a business? [45:17] What has Shakta learned about marketing and scaling up her yoga business? [50:41] What helps Shakta to write a book? [57:42] Learn more about Shakta's work and check out her training sessions on her website. [58:36] Leave a comment to stand a chance to win Shakta's book or the Yoga Warrior Cards.   Links: Shakta Khalsa, Radiant Child Yoga Shakta Khalsa on Twitter Shakta Khalsa on YouTube Radiant Child Yoga on Facebook Radiant Child Yoga on Instagram Books by Shakta Khalsa The Autobiography of a Yogi, by Paramahansa Yogananda Sat Dharam Kaur Rainbow Walk (Guided Meditation), by Shakta Khalsa & Checka Antifonario You Are Made of Energy (Guided Meditation), by Shakta Khalsa & Checka Antifonario Yoga Warrior Cards Yoga Dog TV Show, Jennifer Foster Atomic Habits, by James Clear   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity   Quotes from this episode:   "I don't know any paths of yoga that had a formal teacher training like that. It was basically you lived your yoga."   "The yoga that [the child] had been doing for those five years, that that yoga was the crowning glory of her Montessori time."   "For [the children], it's just fun. But they're using all the yoga tools."   "We use the yoga to control the class."   "You can try to stop a rushing river, but you aren't going to stop the rushing river very easily, so why not go with the flow of it?"   "How do you playfully, and still honoring the child's desire to move their bodies and be joyful, how do you take that enthusiasm and then organize it and we do that all through the yoga."   "When you start early, [yoga meditation] is just as normal as brushing your teeth every morning. It just becomes normal."   "It's important to have form to it, structure and form, and then bring in the fun element as well."   "Inspiration, information - those two things together make a really good book."

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast 110: Create a Yoga Proposal Package with Lisa Zaehringer   Description:   If you’ve ever wanted to share or promote a unique yoga class or workshop, I’m sure you have wondered how best to convey your offering to the yoga studio owner, or even where to begin in reaching out to studios. Lisa Zaehringer, after having to go through this process every 2-3 years, shares more about what goes into the yoga proposal packages she sends to yoga studios, as well as her 7-step process for reaching out to studios.   Lisa is a Yoga Alliance registered yoga teacher, whose work as a yoga teacher complements her profession as a mental health counselor. In her yoga business, she supports mothers of all ages as they reconnect with themselves, reclaim rest, and practice compassionate self-discovery. Her unique workshops and courses include the Sacred Motherhood Restorative Practice, Sacred Baby 8 Week Course, and Sacred Pregnancy Weekend Retreat.As part of her transient military lifestyle, Lisa was having to move every few years, and she had to find an authentic, creative way to be able to approach yoga studios in her new hometowns where she had zero credibility - a yoga proposal package. She explains the different elements that make up the package, and also reveals step-by-step, how she reaches out to studios.Whether you’re wanting to create a yoga proposal package to get some clarity about your yoga niche, or you just want to be prepared to take advantage of any new opportunities that may arise, this episode is full of great tips you’ll be able to use.   Key Takeaways: [3:34] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Lisa Zaehringer. [4:39] What is Lisa's background, and what is the work that she does now? [5:18] What prompted Lisa to develop her mini-retreat for mothers, Sacred Motherhood Restorative Practice? [8:09] Shannon and Lisa discuss how she found her purpose in her motherhood journey. [9:29] What does Lisa's workshop look like? [11:49] What motivated Lisa to create her yoga proposal package? [13:25] Lisa shares more about the challenge she faced in getting yoga studios to understand her unique offering. [14:11] What is in the package that Lisa provides? The first element is the Proposal. [16:43] The second piece is the suggested schedule and themes. [18:03] The third document Lisa includes in her package is a personalized flyer. [18:59] The next item in the package is the Sequence of Events. [19:40] Where does Lisa get the images for her package? [20:55] The last piece of the package is A Gift of Gratitude. [22:06] Where does Lisa begin to approach a yoga studio? She walks us through the 7-stage process. [27:32] If multiple places accept Lisa's offering, does she then have to choose between them? [29:40] What stands out is that throughout this process, Lisa is the one who is choosing, and she has been able to do this because of her clarity in her niche. [31:27] Lisa shares some of her struggles around marketing her yoga offering. [33:42] What are Mama Projects? [37:03] Lisa has some final words of wisdom about creating packages for your yoga offering. [40:47] Shannon shares her key takeaways from this interview. Links: Yoga Proposal Package - PDF The Mother's Guide to Self Renewal, by Renee Trudeau Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail, by Cheryl Strayed Canva Sacred Living Movement Sacred Pregnancy A Return to Love, by Marianne Williamson Define Your Yoga Niche Online Workshop The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 096: How to Create a Yoga Practice Habit with Matt Kowald The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 064: Getting Hired by a Yoga Studio with Kristen Sweeney   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity   Quotes from this episode:   "I believe that that's where connection happens - when vulnerability is met with compassion."   "I wanted to find an authentic, creative way to be able to approach yoga studios in the new hometown where I had zero credibility."   "There's some doubt and fear that bubbles up each time [I approach a yoga studio], like, is anybody going to get this? Is this going to make sense to anybody?"   "[It's] just those little things that say I really care about the time you're putting into reading this."   "Where ever this is meant to happen, is where it's going to happen."   "The universe is always conspiring in our favor."   "I felt like it's a mutual interview, so I'm interviewing [the yoga studios] as much as they're interviewing me."  

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast 109: Attracting Clients with Your Message with Eman Zabi   Description:   Your business is about you, but does your branding and website copy reflect who you are as a yoga teacher, and showcase your unique personality and voice? Eman helps business owners “put the personality back in your business” and she has some tips for you to get started doing the same.   Eman is the founder of The Scribesmith, and she puts her background in Political Science, Econometrics and Neuromarketing to good use in her business. She works with clients from the outdoor, fitness and wellness industry to help them create copy that makes their businesses sound human, capture the essence of the person behind the business, and stand out from the hundreds of other similar offerings.   Particularly in the yoga industry, the human aspect is so important, because a lot of times, our students work with us because they like us, and our style and our personality. That’s why personality-driven copy on our websites is so important. Eman shares why it’s so important to share your story, what your brand is as a yoga teacher, and some tips for how to capture your unique voice and convert it into copy.   If you're feeling like your website reads like a robot wrote it, or if your branding and copy just don't stand out among hundreds of other yoga business owners out there, you are going to love this episode.   Key Takeaways: [3:22] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Eman Zabi. [5:03] Where did Eman get started with her journey of copywriting, particularly for wellness businesses? [7:27] Has Eman ever encountered a situation where she thought that she should pivot away from working with businesses in this space? [9:20] What benefits has Eman seen in businesses when they niche down and speak to a specific audience? Eman explains more about the Return on Investment (ROI) of branding and differentiation. [12:38] What does "brand" actually mean for yoga teachers or yoga studios? [13:24] Eman shares some tips on how to connect with your brand. [16:00] How can you start to dig in and showcase more of who you are? [17:34] How much is too much when it comes to sharing? [19:17] What are Eman's thoughts on how to choose a name for your business? [20:53] Listener question from Pili Bailey: How can I share my story while weaving together yoga and aromatherapy? [22:25] What helped Eman along the way to develop her homepage? How can yoga teachers and yoga studio owners apply that to their own homepages? [25:52] Shannon and Eman discuss the call-to-action on your website, and how this ties in with a sales funnel. [28:10] What is Eman's advice to yoga teachers who haven't found their niche? [30:57] How can you own your story and share who you are without feeling embarrassed? [34:21] Eman shares more about an email marketing campaign that really made an impact. [36:56] How does Eman create amazing subject lines? She also dives into what makes a great email with some examples. [44:19] How can you deal with people who unsubscribe from your email list? [45:12] Eman leaves us with some final tips on how to dig into your own voice in your copy. [46:44] Shannon shares her biggest takeaways from her interview with Eman, and leaves you with some homework!   Links: MamaNurture Prenatal Yoga School Eman Zabi, The Scribesmith Eman Zabi on Instagram The Copywriter Club Podcast The Copywriter Club Rev.com Pili Bailey 101 Subject Lines The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 096: How to Create a Yoga Practice Habit with Matt Kowald Yoga Show Gathering The Yoga Conference and Show, Toronto March 2019 Mama Nurture Prenatal Yoga Teacher Training Yoga for Pelvic Health Teacher Training, November 2019   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity   Quotes from this episode:   "It just made sense to be writing about a space that was such a big part of my life."   "The yoga studios here, particularly, I found that they really have to find really unique ways of telling their stories - they need to stand out."   "As a yoga studio owner, if you invest in your branding and in your story, you're using that to differentiate yourself."   "Just bringing a part of yourself to the table and using that to connect with others - it's one of the easiest and most effective ways of standing out."   "We like to work with people we like, and you cannot like people don't know."   "How much you share comes down to who your audience is, and it comes down to knowing your audience."   "As a business owner, you have the luxury of being able to pivot your business when you feel like it isn't working."   "If I put myself out there, I'm able to reach more people. And if I'm able to reach more people, I'm able to help more people."   "Email marketing, I think, is the most underutilized tool in the fitness industry."

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast 108: Inclusive Language for Prenatal Yoga with Shannon Crow   Description: How can we use inclusive language in a fertility, prenatal or postnatal yoga class so that our students feel heard, seen, accepted and welcome? This episode is a mini-training on how we as yoga teachers can make our classes more accessible and inviting through the words that we use.   Inclusive language is not something a lot of us think about or consider when we are teaching yoga. However, it is an important part of creating welcoming spaces where our students feel accepted and safe. This can be particularly complicated in a prenatal, postnatal, fertility, or baby & me yoga class.   On this episode, Shannon shares more about the different aspects to consider when it comes to inclusive language. Starting with your core values and beliefs, to your promotion and marketing materials (yes, even the images!), to the language you use during the class - Shannon dives headfirst into the kinds of inclusive language you can use in your classes, with tips, examples and templates for you to tap into.   Whether you’re trying to be more mindful of the language that you use to create a safe space for your students, or you’re wondering how to keep up with the times and include different students in their birth journey, this episode will give you plenty to think about.   Key Takeaways: [3:57] Shannon almost backed away from doing this episode - she shares why it was so difficult for her. [5:15] This episode is all about inclusive language. [5:47] Inclusive language begins with your core beliefs and values. Shannon has an exercise - the "I Believe List" - for you to try out. [9:29] Your core values and beliefs get communicated through all your promotional and marketing materials, not just through language but through your images as well. [11:08] Getting to know your students helps you use appropriate and inclusive language. Shannon recommends a waiver form and suggests some of the topics to ask about to better understand your students. [14:51] The next part of using inclusive language for prenatal yoga ties in with the "Welcome and What to Expect" portion of the class. Shannon shares an example that she might use to welcome students in a prenatal yoga class. [22:15] In class with your students, what is the inclusive language that you can use? [22:47] The first two categories of inclusive language have to do with acknowledging and including baby, and on the flip side, acknowledging self and space for the pregnant student. Shannon has some examples of how you might cue this in your class. [25:39] In your prenatal yoga class, choose empowering and encouraging language. [26:55] It's important for us as yoga teachers to learn the medical language, and then to choose what you don't want to use. [28:14] Get comfortable talking about pelvic anatomy and different conditions that the prenatal yoga student may have. [28:48] Part of inclusive language in a prenatal yoga class is using gender-neutral language. [34:20] Another important part of inclusive prenatal yoga classes is being inclusive of all family dynamics, beliefs and choices. [35:35] Shannon touches on the topic of postnatal and parenthood inclusive language. [38:38] Birth circles are a time for new parents to share their birth story, with no judgment. [39:53] Shannon leaves us with some final thoughts about this topic.   Links: MamaNurture Prenatal Yoga School Just Breathe Yoga, Bermuda Inclusive Language for Prenatal Yoga 4-page printable PDF How to Find Royalty-Free Yoga Images Canva Yoga Student Waiver Forms The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 092: Accessible Yoga Begins with Language with Elliot Hodge, Chantel Ehler and Katie Juelson The Genderbread Person Spike in demand for treatment of transgender teens, CBC News Article 9 Reasons Why I Call It Chestfeeding (And You Should, Too), by Steph Montgomery Yoga Show Gathering sponsored by Schedulicity The Yoga Conference and Show, Toronto March 2019 Mama Nurture Prenatal Yoga Teacher Training Yoga for Pelvic Health Teacher Training, November 2019   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity   Quotes from this episode:   "Inclusive language starts before you are standing in front of a room full of yoga students. I believe it begins with your core beliefs or values."   "Be gentle with yourself as we go through this inclusive language and just know that we're all learning."   "We get to make a choice around what language we use."   "As I'm talking about this with you today, if you feel some resistance come up, figure out where is that coming from."   "I want to keep up with the times on this one, so that my yoga students don’t feel excluded or discriminated against."   "The more we actually know someone's story, the less we're just reacting to what we're used to, to our "normal" in society."   "We don't have to have the same choices, we just need to stay neutral on this, as the person who's holding space."   "What is the intention of the inclusive language?"   "If I can make someone feel welcome, heard, seen, accepted in my yoga class, it is totally worth it."

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast 107: Launch & Promote Your Yoga Offering with Abby Herman   Description:   Do you struggle with putting out content that connects you to your yoga students? Have you gotten overwhelmed about promoting your yoga offering - not knowing where to start, which platform to choose, or even what to say? Abby Herman is just the expert you need to hear from about all things content-related.   Abby is the founder of Write Solutions and is a content strategist who helps her clients to get their message out to their audience, in their own voice, and on their own terms. She specializes in working with service-based businesses and helps small business owners generate ideas and strategies to move their businesses forward with content that attracts the right clients.   You have something unique to share with the world, but if people don’t know about you, they can’t work with you. That’s why content is so important - it helps you connect to your ideal yoga student, and attracts them to you. Abby talks about finding your zone of genius, brainstorming, how to use content across different platforms, and what it really takes to make a successful launch.   If you’ve been wanting to start promoting your yoga offering more consistently, or if you find yourself getting stuck in creating meaningful and relevant content for your audience - this is the episode for you. Listen to the end of the episode to find out how you can stand a chance to win a live 1:1 content planning session with Abby!   Key Takeaways: [2:43] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Abby Herman. [5:28] What has Abby's experience with yoga been? [6:27] What does Abby do and who does she do it for? [6:50] What does 'launching' mean? [7:54] How much time do you need to lead up to a launch? [10:33] It is possible to launch a program or course with a tight turnaround, as long as you are nurturing your audience on a regular basis before that. [12:07] What should you be saying in emails that nurture your audience? How can you brainstorm content ideas to engage with and remain connected to your audience? [15:46] How does Abby generate content in her own business? [20:30] How many umbrella topics should you have in your Excel spreadsheet? [23:11] How long does it take to brainstorm ideas? Abby shares some tips about things to do, and things to avoid. [26:55] Abby shares her thoughts about repurposing and reusing content across different platforms. [35:20] Is it important to focus on platforms that you are uncomfortable or unfamiliar with? [36:35] What is the best way to map all your content ideas out onto a calendar? [42:25] It's important to link to other content in emails, but can you ever be adding in too many links to different content? [46:21] What's the best time to send emails? How often? [48:08] To find out more about Abby and the work that she does, get in touch via her website. [48:42] Shannon highlights her biggest takeaways from this interview with Abby.   Links: MamaNurture Prenatal Yoga School Abby Herman Abby Herman on Facebook Abby Herman on Instagram Abby Herman on YouTube How to Come Up With Content Marketing Topics for 2019 (150 Blog Topics) The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 092: Accessible Yoga Begins with Language with Kesse Hodge, Chantel Ehler and Katie Juelson The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 106: Defining My Yoga Business Niche with Shannon Crow Yoga Show Gathering The Yoga Conference and Show, Toronto March 2019 Mama Nurture Prenatal Yoga Teacher Training Yoga for Pelvic Health Teacher Training, November 2019   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity   Quotes from this episode:   "Launching means you are putting something out there ... to your audience and it's a way to really narrowly focus your audience's attention on one thing that you want them to buy."   "People have to hear things like 7, 8, 9 times in order for it to really register."   "Whether it's a free event or not, you still want to get a commitment because once they say 'yes, I'll be there', they're much more likely to actually show up."   "The more you can expand that experience for your clients, the better, and the more willing they will be to buy the thing."   "Think about content in themes, and then it's a lot easier to then take those themes and plug in different ideas for a blog, for an email you send out to your audience, for social media posts."   "When you have too many, your message gets watered down, and so people don't really know what to come to you for. They don't really know what you're an expert in."   "Sometimes we're so close to our own content and our own ideas that we don't really know what other people need to know."   "What I recommend doing is creating content that is complementary but not the same."   "Think about where you can show up the best for your audience, and how you can promote that."   "Think about that any time you're creating any content at all - what do you want them to do, or what do you want them to know, or what's the call to action at the end."

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast 106: Defining My Yoga Business Niche with Shannon Crow   Description:   What’s your yoga business niche? Do you share your yoga with everyone, or are you focusing in on your zone of genius? Even though she has been in the yoga industry for 13 years, Shannon still struggles with defining her yoga business niche. On this episode, she shares her own process that helped her figure out where to take her yoga business.   As Shannon started planning her content for 2019, and looking forward into how she wanted to grow her yoga business in the new year, she kept feeling stuck with some content planning. She shares the strategies that she uses in her content creation process - what worked, and what didn’t work. (Hint: If you’re having trouble with content, some of these methods will help!)   The result of all her planning and reflection was the realization that she needed to niche down in her yoga business once again. Shannon talks about her struggle with accepting and admitting that her focus in her yoga business had shifted from where she started out, and why niching down is a process that never ends.   If you’ve been feeling burned out from teaching too many different yoga classes or are feeling stuck in the work that you’re doing - it may be time for you to look into defining your yoga business niche, and this episode has just the insights you need to get you started.   Key Takeaways: [:28] This episode is about a challenge Shannon has been facing in her yoga business [3:17] Next week's episode with Abby Herman is all about content, and there's an amazing prize giveaway too! [5:37] Please leave a review if you're enjoying this content! [8:54] It's so much easier for Shannon to share the work she does with yoga and yoga business owners when she is connected to herself, her yoga practice and her community. [10:23] Shannon shares more about how she hit a point of struggle in her yoga business just before 2019. [14:55] Taking away the guilt from the process can help you move away from what's keeping you stuck, and into areas that you thrive [17:00] Reflecting back on your work can help you see clearly where you are struggling in your business. [18:47] Shannon shares how she does her content brainstorming - Start with the main content topic, then map out subtopics. [20:56] Shannon loves to map out three things when it comes to content - the channel she's releasing the content, the release date, and when she's creating that content. Why is this so important? [23:07] How is all of this related to defining your yoga niche? [25:58] Shannon talks through her struggles around Mama Nurture, and how she resolved them. [31:56] Niching down is work that never ends. [32:55] Shannon shares a personal anecdote about her journey with niching down. [35:22] Check out the ways you can work with Shannon at The Connected Yoga Teacher website.   Links: MamaNurture Prenatal Yoga School The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 054: Launching a Podcast and Facebook Group with Shannon Crow The Connected Yoga Teacher Episode 095: Making a CEO Business Plan with Shannon Crow 1:1 Yoga Business Consultation with Shannon Group Coaching Program Yoga Show Gathering The Yoga Conference and Show, Toronto March 2019 Mama Nurture Prenatal Yoga Teacher Training Yoga for Pelvic Health Teacher Training, November 2019 5 Day Content Challenge   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity   Quotes from this episode:   "What's the secret to podcasting? It's simply 'Just keep going'."   "There have been times in my yoga career where it really does feel like very difficult work. And that's when I know I'm kind of fighting against where I'm actually supposed to be going."   "You pick the channel where you really like to connect to your audience."   "You do not have to make a content plan that would make sense to someone else."   "Stick to one piece of content that you really love to do, that's your one main channel. And then add on as you want to, or as it works in. Don't try to do it all at once."   "My content struggle is that I do not feel rooted in the 'now' with prenatal yoga."   "I believe that each and every yoga teacher has a unique and amazing gift to offer to the world that no one else can."

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast 105: Insurance for Yoga Teachers with Beth McVeigh   Description:   As a yoga teacher or yoga studio owner, do you have insurance that protects you if a lawsuit arises? How much coverage is enough? Beth McVeigh, a specialist in liability insurance for yoga instructors and yoga studio owners, joins Shannon in the last episode of the 5-part mini-series, Yoga Studio Business 101, to shed light on the topic of insurance.   Beth McVeigh is the Manager of the Commercial Lines Complementary Health Department at Lackner McLennan Insurance, the largest provider of insurance to yoga instructors and yoga teachers in Canada. They specialize in liability insurance, cover a wide range of yoga modalities, and have 25 years of experience serving the yoga community.   Protecting yourself financially is just as important as serving your audience and catering to their needs. That’s where insurance comes in, but it can be confusing! Beth answers questions relating to the amount of coverage needed, waiver forms, the requirements to apply for insurance and much more. She also has some tips on how best to protect your yoga business and yourself from potential lawsuits that may come up years later.   Whether you’re wondering if you need insurance for your business, or if you’re looking to improve your coverage, after this episode, you’ll definitely have a better understanding of the kinds of insurance you need and should have.   Key Takeaways: [3:47] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Beth McVeigh. [5:21] What is Beth's role as Manager of the Commercial Lines Complementary Health Department at Lackner McLennan, and how is it relevant to yoga teachers? [8:00] Beth shares more about how she got into the yoga space in the insurance world. [10:03] How much insurance do yoga teachers really need? [11:54] Shannon and Beth discuss waiver forms - do yoga teachers need them, and how do they work? [17:36] How soon after completing their training should a new yoga teacher get an insurance policy into place? [18:31] What do yoga teachers need to get insurance? [18:59] Do yoga teachers need to be part of a larger organization in order to be insured? [19:25] What else should new teachers be aware of when it comes to getting insurance? [20:07] There are three main types of yoga business owners - the yoga teacher, the yoga studio owner, and the traveling yoga teacher. Beth explains the different types of policies available to cater to them. [23:56] Shannon shares her experience with insurance coverage and teaching yoga in her home. [25:58] Beth and Shannon clarify some other questions related to renting studio spaces, traveling abroad, event cancellation and disability insurance. [29:54] What's the difference between an occurrence-based policy and a claims-based policy? [32:44] What are some other aspects for yoga teachers to consider in order to better protect themselves? [36:09] Whose responsibility is it in a situation where the teacher has done his / her due diligence and given appropriate instructions, but the student doesn't heed them and gets injured as a result? [38:48] Beth shares more about the prices and coverage for some of the policies for yoga teachers. [40:49] Shannon and Beth discuss some instances and examples of scenarios that could take place that might give rise to a claim. [43:00] Does the scope of practice of yoga teachers play in at all with insurance? [46:26] There has been a lot of discussion in the yoga world around touch. Beth shares her perspectives on the topic. [49:30] For yoga teachers in Canada who are looking for insurance or need more information, check out the Lackner McLennan website. [50:49] What are Beth's thoughts on sharing yoga online? [53:48] How does insurance change if you are a yoga therapist or if you're certified with the Yoga Therapy Association? [55:07] Shannon shares her key takeaway - it's important to take a look at your own insurance and make sure it covers you for everything you need.   Links: Lackner McLennan Queen Street Yoga The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 015: Consent Cards and Hands-On Assists with Molly Kitchen Yoga Show Gathering The Yoga Conference and Show, Toronto March 2019 Mama Nurture Prenatal Yoga Teacher Training Yoga for Pelvic Health Teacher Training, November 2019 5 Day Content Challenge   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity   Quotes from this episode:   "We've tried to make insurance as fun and painless as possible because nobody likes to have to purchase insurance."   "Unfortunately, in the world that we live in today, people do sue."   "When it comes down to a claim, and you are drawn into a lawsuit, the more detail you have, the more you have written down and the more that you can show, the more the chances are that you're going to be exempted from it."   "We know that a lot of claims will come about years from the time of the incident."   "It doesn't matter how small the class is, or if you're only teaching part-time, you're still exposing yourself, so you still need to make sure that you're fully covered."   "If you're doing any sort of specialty yoga, then we would definitely have to put in a bigger policy in place."

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast 104: Legal Answers for Your Yoga Business with Saerin Ally Cho   Description:   Should your yoga business be an LLC? Do you need to trademark your business name? What kind of permits and licenses do you need to legally run your yoga business? Saerin Ally Cho, founder of Love Light Law joins Shannon in the fourth episode of the 5-part mini-series, Yoga Studio Business 101, to talk about all things legal.   Saerin is a lawyer and yoga teacher, who combined her love for the two disciplines into her company, Love Light Law. Her mission is to help yoga teachers and wellness entrepreneurs do what they love and share their light by protecting their businesses with the law on their side.   On this episode, Saerin and Shannon tackle some of the confusing and complicated (but extremely important!) legal aspects of running a yoga business. From the type of business entity you should have, to legal responsibility for your students - they discuss it all.   If you’ve ever struggled with figuring out taxes or wondered about your liability as a yoga instructor, or even just needed help with the practical aspects of legally establishing and managing your business, this is a must listen.   Key Takeaways: [2:15] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Saerin Ally Cho. [5:00] Saerin is a lawyer and a yoga teacher. Which came first in her journey? How did motherhood lead her to become a yoga teacher? [7:00] Should yoga teachers have an LLC? Saerin explains more about what that means, and the different business entities that are available as options for yoga teachers. [11:52] Shannon's business is a sole proprietorship. Saerin explains what that means from a tax and legal standpoint. [13:51] How does Saerin determine if someone should start an LLC? She illustrates with a few examples of people at different points in their lives and careers. [16:56] What are some tips and tricks for determining what your business name should be? What are some of the considerations when it comes to choosing a name for your business? [20:21] Shannon and Saerin discuss some of the trademarking issues that come up in the yoga space. [21:08] If you're in the US, you can "obtain an EIN from the IRS". Saerin explains what that means. [24:34] Getting legit with required licenses and permits. Saerin talks through some of the paperwork you may need to run your yoga business - be careful, this varies according to local laws! [26:41] Shannon and Saerin delve a little deeper into what legal requirements there are when it comes to teaching in a public space or in your home. [29:56] Hands-on assists can be a bit of a tricky situation in yoga classes. Find out what's allowed in your jurisdiction, as this may differ! [31:47] If a student openly disregards the teacher's instructions and then suffers some sort of injury, whose legal responsibility is it? [33:03] What is an example of gross negligence? [34:34] How much information should you get about the student on your intake and waiver forms? [38:22] Do get your free download of Saerin's checklist to ensure that the different aspects of your yoga business are considered. [40:43] Get in touch with Saerin via her website. [42:00] Shannon shares her biggest takeaways from her interview with Saerin. Do you have any other legal questions? Leave a comment!   Links: Saerin Ally Cho Love Light Law Love Light Law on Facebook Love Light Law on Instagram Checklist download Free waiver form US Patent and Trademark Office - Trademark Electronic Search System (TESS) Namechk.com Small Business Administration Website (USA) The Yoga Conference and Show, Toronto March 2019 Mama Nurture Prenatal Yoga Teacher Training Yoga for Pelvic Health Teacher Training, November 2019   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity   Quotes from this episode:   "I took a good look at what I enjoyed doing before I became a mother, and decided to dive deep into that, and that was yoga."   "Coming into a business, and yoga is definitely a business even if you're teaching part-time or full-time, you're going to think about what is the right legal entity structure best for me."   "The legal entity structure, in general, creates a wall between your personal assets and liabilities on one side, and professional assets and liabilities on the other."   "A yoga teacher coming out of a yoga teacher training 200 might not have legally the same level of standard duty of care that's the same as someone who's been teaching for 20 years and is a yoga therapist."   "When you look at it from a legal standpoint, you look at all the facts. Who are these people, and what should they have known?"

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast 103: Hiring and Nurturing Your Team with Shelli Warren   Description:   Do you have a team supporting you in your business? Are you thinking about hiring, because some parts of your business seem just too overwhelming? Do you need help in hiring, building, and nurturing your team? Shelli Warren, Team and Leadership Coach, joins Shannon in the third episode of the 5-part mini-series, Yoga Studio Business 101, to share more about what it takes to build a successful team as you grow your business.   As the Chief People Officer at BizChix, host of the Stacking Your Team podcast, and leadership and team-building expert, Shelli draws on her years of corporate experience to help business owners grow their teams alongside their businesses.   You can’t grow a business without a strong team to support you. But when is the right time to start hiring, and who do you hire? How do you ensure your employees are happy? Shelli shares her expertise about the process of hiring - from knowing which position to hire for and creating a compelling job description, to how to find and hire employees who are the right fit for your organization. She also gives tips on cultivating a strong team, and speaks to the importance of team meetings.   Whether you’re thinking about hiring your first team member, or you have a team supporting you in your business, this episode has lots of insights into leadership and team building that are sure to make an impact on your business.   Key Takeaways: [6:00] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Shelli Warren. [9:23] What is the first step you should take when you think you need to hire someone in your business? [15:20] It important to come to center and get grounded, rather than staying too long in your own head space, before making any decisions about your business. [17:24] Shelli describes her time leading large teams at Procter & Gamble, and how that honed her people development skills. [19:54] What are some of Shelli's tips for hiring? She speaks to the adage of "hire slow, fire fast". [22:35] What does it take to write a compelling job description? [25:33] Why is it so important to have a job description that reflects the mission, values and culture of your organization? [28:20] Shelli explains more about having built-in triggers in the application process to weed out people who are not a good fit. [33:03] How can you create a compelling job description for a task or role that you yourself dislike and do not enjoy? [38:50] How can you nurture your team? How often should you have a team meeting to manage the team? [44:31] Shannon and Shelli discuss some of the logistics of running team meetings. [49:07] What is the best way to check in with your team to ensure that things are going well? [52:44] What are some ways to check in with virtual team members or other team members you may not see as often? [58:35] Shelli shares a tip for getting more feedback from clients, and how to cultivate these clients into raving fans. [1:04:42] Do check out Shelli's Stacking Your Team podcast and get your free hiring resource bundle by visiting her website. [1:07:23] Shannon shares some of her key takeaways. What were your biggest learning points? Shannon would love to hear from you.   Links: The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 101: What I Learned as a Yoga Studio Manager with Shannon Crow The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Ep 102 Yoga Studio: Mission Statements & Core Values with Steve Hart Shelli Warren Work with Shelli Warren - Strategy Session Shelli Warren on Instagram BizChix Free Hiring Resources Stacking Your Team Podcast Episode 10: Lessons from Our Best Bosses (Featuring BizChix Community Members) Zoom Loom Stacking Your Team Podcast   The Yoga Conference and Show, Toronto March 2019 Mama Nurture Prenatal Yoga Teacher Training Yoga for Pelvic Health Teacher Training, November 2019   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity   Quotes from this episode:   "Really stop and think 'Why am I feeling like I need to hire?'"   "What would give me the most relief and the most joy to stop doing right now?"   "We hire to free our minds and ourselves up to be able to do the work that we are intended to do."   "Oftentimes, it's all anyone is looking for - it's to be seen and heard."   "Thing that you really dislike doing, others jump up out of bed to go and do. Everyone has their own likes and dislikes."   "That's when that whole level of respect for one another is really going to elevate, because they start to know each other as people."   "The premise of that, for you, is to open up the conversation for them, and your job is to listen."

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast 102 Yoga Studio: Mission Statements & Core Values with Steve Hart   Description:   What does your yoga business stand for? Who are you serving? And what do you hope to achieve? Steve Hart, founder of Riffs Studio, joins Shannon in the second of this 5-part mini-series, Yoga Studio Business 101, to share more, not just about mission statements and core values, but also pricing, memberships, marketing and the business of running a successful yoga business.   Steve Hart started Riffs Studio, a unique music and yoga studio in 2012, and offers a full-service yoga program with beginner to advanced classes in a variety of disciplines, with live music. Steve didn’t always have it all figured out - he shares some of his struggles in finding a structure that worked, and why having his mission statement and core values made the journey all the easier.   Shannon and Steve dive into the nitty gritty details of what it takes to build and run a successful yoga business - from establishing a membership system that works to managing teachers and paying them fairly, from marketing techniques and strategies to the importance of ensuring the team buys into the core values and mission of the business - they talk about it all. Whether you’re a yoga studio owner or a yoga teacher working with yoga studios, this episode will shed some light on the intricacies of running a yoga business, and how to bring the different aspects of your yoga business in alignment with each other.   Key Takeaways: [6:17] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Steve Hart. [8:08] Where did Steve's yoga journey begin? [12:15] Steve explains more about how yoga was a part of his music store when he first started out, and how it has evolved since. [13:25] What shifted for Steve that brought everything about his music and yoga studio into alignment? [17:12] What systems did Steve have in place and what did he shift to that had the biggest impact on his business? [18:43] How does the membership system work in Steve's studio? He takes us through the process of going from new student to studio member. [21:36] How does Steve ensure that his membership model for the yoga studio is profitable for the business? [24:10] What does Steve pay his yoga teachers as their flat rate per class? [26:09] How many teachers work at Steve's studio, and how many classes does the studio offer? Steve elaborates on the schedule he runs. [27:22] When did Steve decide to add in the idea of a well-defined mission statement and core values to the running of his yoga studio business? [29:29] How does Steve convey his mission statement and core values to new hires as he on-boards them? [30:25] Steve shares more about how he conducts the quarterly review of the core values and mission statement with his team. [32:05] What does Steve's team look like now, and how has it grown from when he first opened? [34:31] What are Steve's mission statement and core values? [35:54] What were some of the key things Steve has learned along the way in his journey as a yoga studio owner? [38:25] Good marketing is key to spreading the word about the good service that you provide. [39:26] Where should yoga business owners start investing, in terms of marketing? What has the marketing that has been the most helpful for Steve's studio. [42:45] Steve explains why it is important to surround yourself with different types of people. [44:37] Steve works with yoga teachers and yoga studios in a consultant's role. He elaborates more on what he does how it aligns with his mission. [45:34] Get in touch with Steve via email to find out more about his work and how he can help you in your yoga business. [46:21] Steve leaves us with some final advice. [47:59] What do you think that you could use from this interview in your own yoga business? Shannon shares her biggest takeaways from this interview. Links: The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 101: What I Learned as a Yoga Studio Manager with Shannon Crow Email Steve Hart Riffs Studio Happy-U Yoga The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change, by Stephen R. Covey The Zappos Experience: 5 Principles to Inspire, Engage, and WOW, by Joseph A. Michelli Built from Scratch: How a Couple of Regular Guys Grew The Home Depot from Nothing to $30 Billion, by Bernie Marcus & Arthur Blank Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action, by Simon Sinek The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 097: Focusing In On Your Niche [Consultation Call] with Susan Hopkinson Delivering Happiness: A Path to Profits, Passion, and Purpose, by Tony Hsieh The Yoga Conference and Show, Toronto March 2019 Mama Nurture Prenatal Yoga Teacher Training Yoga for Pelvic Health Teacher Training, November 2019   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity   Quotes from this episode:   "My first impression of yoga was actually pretty negative. I didn't really like it all that much!"   "I fell in love with yoga and I saw the impact that it had in my life, and the impact it was having on others around me."   "I really, at that point, fully believed in what we were selling, and I think that was probably the most important thing."   "My job is to bring people in the door, as the yoga studio."   "There's so many people around, and there's so many potential new students around that at any given time during the day, there's enough students to make a class profitable."   "This mission statement / core values probably, first and foremost, above anything else, I think is the hands down most important thing that needs to be defined, sooner rather than later, in any company."   "Providing a good service doesn't really matter if you don't have good marketing."   "Providing a good service without good marketing won't get you very far."   “Focus on teaching great classes and connecting to people.”   “Being a teacher, I think you focus on teaching. Being a yoga studio, that's when I think the marketing becomes a really important thing.”

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast 101: What I Learned as a Yoga Studio Manager with Shannon Crow   Description:   What does it really take to run a successful yoga studio business? Join Shannon in the first of this 5-part mini-series, Yoga Studio Business 101, to find out more about the different aspects of building and running a yoga studio business.   Shannon shares what she has learned as a yoga studio manager, and in the next four episodes, brings on four other experts to share more about creating a mission statement, hiring and training a team, the legal aspects and insurance aspects of running a yoga studio business.   Shannon has had years of experience as a teacher working at yoga studios, and as a manager ensuring the smooth running of yoga studios, before she moved into the consulting space. On this episode, she shares her six biggest takeaways from her time managing for yoga studios: Setting prices with confidence. Registered sessions vs drop-in classes. Why consistent communication is important. Paying attention to numbers and data. Focusing on community over competition. The teachers are the brand.   If you are the owner of a yoga studio, or dream of becoming one someday, or if you’re an independent yoga teacher who wants to build a yoga business - there are lots of great insights for you in this mini-series! Key Takeaways: [2:13] This is the first of a 5-part mini-series, Yoga Studio Business 101. [7:21] Shannon has learned a lot about running a yoga studio business by working at and managing for yoga studios. [9:35] How can you set prices with confidence? Why is that so important for a yoga studio? Shannon breaks down the money mindset issues behind setting prices. [14:50] Shannon shares some strategies to build your confidence in setting your prices. [22:01] Consider doing registered sessions instead of drop-in classes. It's all about the commitment that comes with it. [24:30] Regular, consistent communication matters. Why? [27:18] Attention to the numbers and the data is powerful. What kind of data do you need, and how can it help you run a better yoga business? [30:51] Always value community over competition. Shannon shares some insights about the fear that drives competition, and how to overcome it. [34:08] Yoga teachers are the brand of the yoga studio. Shannon illustrates why, with a personal anecdote of how one of her yoga studios went from zero profit to profitable overnight. [39:43] Connect with Shannon and other yoga teachers at various events and training sessions coming up.   Links: The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 100: Cultivating a Community of Professional Peers with Linda Sparrowe Tone Yoga Studio in Owen Sound The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 011: Setting Prices and Defining Your Value as a Yoga Teacher with Tracey Eccleston The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 042: Money Mindset with Geraldine Carter Productivity Straight Talk Podcast with Amber De La Garza Episode 079 - Nipping Avoidance In The Bud: A Coaching Session With Shannon Crow The Yoga Conference and Show, Toronto March 2019 Mama Nurture Prenatal Yoga Teacher Training Yoga for Pelvic Health Teacher Training, November 2019   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity   Quotes from this episode:   "Everything hinges on that teacher. The teacher needs to make enough money so that they can continue to sustain those yoga classes."   "The sustainability of a yoga business really hinges on if we can maintain those professional relationships and maintain our hires of yoga teachers."   "Lowering the price and having a good deal isn't always what gives us value."   "What is holding you back with your prices and your confidence around setting prices?"   "Your ideal yoga students know your value."   "Regular, consistent communication matters."   "Your personality is really your brand, and students connect to teachers."

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast 100: Cultivating a Community of Professional Peers with Linda Sparrowe   Description:   How can we, as yoga teachers, build and maintain a professional peer community? Whether it’s taking ownership of our yoga, overcoming isolation, or dealing with the competition we feel as yoga teachers - we have all faced these challenges. Linda Sparrow shares some of her insights about these difficult and uncomfortable topics.   Linda Sparrowe is a writer, editor, speaker and mentor in the holistic healing arena, who has over 20 years of experience. She is the former editor-in-chief of Yoga International and editor of Yoga Journal, as well as the author of several books and contributor to various online offerings in the yoga space. She teaches vinyasa yoga and yin yoga classes and workshops nationwide.   What does it take to cultivate a community of professional peers among yoga teachers? Shannon and Linda tackle some of the issues impacting our community of yoga professionals, including social media scolding in the yoga community, making yoga accessible through language, dealing with Impostor Syndrome and supporting others within the community.   If you believe that yoga is all about the connections you make, or if you’re struggling with the idea of building a community while keeping your voice, or if you’re feeling isolated as a yoga professional, this episode is just what you need to hear.   Key Takeaways: [2:40] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Linda Sparrowe. [4:30] What first brought Linda to yoga? [7:34] Yoga can help people feel more connected to themselves, even when they don't set it as an intention for their practice. [8:37] Linda often feels that she doesn't know enough. [9:27] Linda explains what drove her to discuss the 8 limbs in relation to the concept of having a community of professional peers. [13:08] When the community engages in social media scolding, we are not honoring the teachings of yoga. [15:16] Linda shares some examples of how we have deviated from the teachings of yoga. [20:12] Linda explores the idea of sympathetic joy, and that feelings are not mutually exclusive. [23:15] What is the difference between feelings and emotions? [24:20] We don't have a community that is predisposed to connect, and not judge. [25:58] What would Linda suggest for yoga teachers to do to build that supportive community and get together? [26:53] How does Linda address the concerns of yoga teachers who view each other as competition? [31:09] Why is fierce competition and lack of community so prevalent among yoga teachers? [35:05] Shannon and Linda discuss their own struggles with wanting to push for their way of teaching. [38:29] Yoga should never be about getting better - it's about uncovering the beauty of your soul. [41:51] Shannon voices her challenge in standing with what she believes in but at the same time not tearing others down or going against yoga principles. Linda shares some insights to this difficult question. [49:53] How does Linda deal with situations where she disagrees with the teachings of other yoga teachers? [50:59] How can we build community and still have a voice? [53:54] Community in an unhealthy way looks like a cult. How can yoga teachers be mindful in the way they build community? [58:49] What does Linda suggest for yoga teachers who are feeling isolated and that they're not part of a community? [1:02:47] What is the bigger picture of building a supportive peer community of yoga professionals? [1:06:30] Shannon has a question for you - what can we do as yoga teachers? How can we build community?   Links: Linda Sparrowe Linda Sparrowe on Instagram Linda Sparrowe on Facebook Yoga International Yoga Journal YogaAnytime YogaUOnline Jill Minye Kira Sloane Angela Farmer The Yoga Conference and Show, Toronto March 2019 Mama Nurture Prenatal Yoga Teacher Training Yoga for Pelvic Health Teacher Training, November 2019   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity   Quotes from this episode:   "I actually hated yoga the first time I took it."   "One of the reasons that I am so committed to yoga as a holistic practice is because I came at it from a meditative practice."   "I just don't know how to practice what I don't live."   "What is it that we are doing as a collective that is causing such pain and such separation and such a rift in the trust that our students have put in us?"   "How can we come together, not to scold one another and have a whole set of rules...but how can we support each other even those people who have caused the suffering?"   "We're not even honoring what it means to be connected. We're not even honoring that your suffering is mine, and my joy is yours. We're not honoring that."   "In order to rise up, what's happening is that we're squashing other people down."   "Just concentrate on your game. Just concentrate on your gifts. What is it that you are giving your students?"   "We don't have a community that is predisposed to connect, and predisposed to not judge."   "You are stronger together than you would ever be by yourself."   "Don't allow the intelligence of the mind override the intelligence of the body. Your body knows." - Linda, quoting Iyengar   "Don't put yourself out as the expert at the expense of someone else."   "We should use social media in a way that is actually compassionate and productive."

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast 099: Branding Your Yoga Website with Kali Edwards   Description:   Have you been wanting to design and launch a professional website for your yoga business but don’t know where to start? Perhaps you are struggling with clarifying and communicating your brand and message on your website. Kali Edwards, founder of June Mango LLC, is just the expert you need to hear from about how to establish and showcase your brand on your website.   Kali has always had the urge to create. She pursued Fine Arts in college, then had a career as an agency art director. Today, she runs her own business working with entrepreneurs to create gorgeous branding and website designs. With her Go Live in 5 Process, she helps business owners design and launch their websites in 5 days (or less).   When it comes to branding, designing a website and conveying your message, the key is to focus on your audience. Kali shares more insights about the different aspects to consider when creating your website, and how you can plan and create copy for your website.   If you have been struggling with setting up a website for your business, or if you're thinking about rebranding or updating your website - this episode is a must-listen. Kali has so many tips and strategies that you can implement immediately, and a special resource for listeners!   Key Takeaways: [3:22] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Kali Edwards. [4:57] What got Kali started on her journey of websites and branding? [6:14] Kali speaks to her experience of feeling constricted in her previous job with regard to being able to pursue her creative flow. [7:50] What does Kali's work space look like? [9:06] Shannon and Kali discuss how her own website clearly reflects her personality and brand in the design and messaging. [10:40] Where would Kali suggest people start when it comes to planning out their website? [12:53] One of the things people struggle with most with their website is the copy, and talking about themselves. [14:32] Kali explains why it's so important for you to know who your ideal clients are, and to get super specific with the details. [16:19] Explaining how you can help people is not bragging. [18:45] How can people clarify their message and brand? Kali shares a short fill-in-the-blank exercise that can help. [22:03] What other aspects really stump people when it comes to branding? [24:45] How does Kali approach rebranding and updating websites? [27:25] Why is a minimalist, condensed approach better? [31:05] In terms of images, more important than the colors themselves, is the vibe that the visuals convey. [33:29] What services does Kali offer her clients? [34:16] Get in touch with Kali via her website or Instagram. [35:04] Kali has some final words for people who are feeling stuck in their branding. [36:06] Shannon shares some of her key takeaways - which of Kali's tips are you going to be putting into action? Share your thoughts in the comments.   Links: Kali Edwards June Mango Design Kali Edwards on Instagram Kali’s Special Resource for Listeners   The Yoga Conference and Show, Toronto March 2019 Mama Nurture Prenatal Yoga Teacher Training Yoga for Pelvic Health Teacher Training, November 2019   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity   Quotes from this episode:   "Everybody has kind of a drive that really motivates them to even get up in the morning, and mine has always been beauty."   "Less is more. You can be really clear and concise at the same time."   "I always like to think of gathering content as the first piece of the puzzle."   "Who is it exactly that you are trying to attract?"   "People need to know that you're the expert in what you do, in order to trust you."   "You have control over how your audience moves through your site."   "Especially when it comes to websites, they're really a living, breathing thing. So websites really should be getting updated pretty often."   "You don't have to necessarily start over because you've shifted a little bit."   "Thinking about that emotional connection that your yoga expertise has with your clients - that's really going to be the key to helping you put all the pieces of the puzzle together."  

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast 098: Many Layers of Fascia with Gil Hedley   Description:   How often have we said that we can’t do certain movements because of old age? What if that’s not a result of old age, but “fuzz” - a by-product of not enough movement in our bodies? Gil Hedley of The Fuzz Speech fame joins Shannon to bring the concepts of fascia, anatomy, movement and scar tissue to a whole new light.   Gil is a Rolfer, an author, and a strong proponent of encouraging somanauts to explore Inner Space a.k.a. the wonders of the human form. He became a Certified Rolfer at the Rolf Institute in Boulder, CO in the early ‘90s, and has also studied massage and tai chi. He has since developed an integral approach to the study of human anatomy, and published a number of books including The Integral Anatomy Series.   Our bodies receive a lot of flak for not being perfect or adhering to societal standards - Gil encourages us to approach our bodies from a place of appreciation and fascination instead. Whether it’s fat cells, scar tissue or any other perceived imperfection in our bodies, approaching it with appreciation is the key to understanding what’s going on inside our bodies.   Gil takes us through the three different layers of fascia, the key role of movement, massage, and grounding in our well-being, and why scar tissue is good and beneficial, in this incredibly enlightening episode. If you’ve ever wondered about the human form or movement or just need a push to appreciate your body more, this episode is sure to be an eye-opener.   Key Takeaways: [5:06] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Gil Hedley. [6:09] What started Gil's journey into fascia and understanding the human body? [6:47] What does the word "somanaut" mean? [8:47] How does Gil wish people understood fascia? [11:53] There's nothing wrong with noticing differences, but it must be done with the heart to remain connected. [13:53] Gil explains more about the superficial layer of fascia, not just thinking about it in the head space, but also integrating the heart space. [17:47] How are intuition and superficial fascia related? [23:06] Gil dives into the next level of fascia - the perifascia. [29:36] What are some methods that can help reintroduce slipperiness between tissues? [34:21] How does grounding help fascia? [36:17] What is the third layer of fascia - deep fascia? [38:09] What happens to fascia when there is an injury? [40:30] What can be done to heal scar tissue and improve the fascia? [43:58] What are some of Gil's questions about fascia that remain unanswered? [45:31] Shannon and Gil discuss the need to balance between movement and relaxation. [49:15] What does massage offer the body that movement can't? [52:02] Our bodies tend to fall into certain limiting movements. How can you invite new movement into your life? [55:39] Check out more of Gil's videos and courses on his website. [56:31] Shannon shares her key takeaways and would love for you to do the same.   Links: Gil Hedley Gil Hedley: Fascia and Stretching: The Fuzz Speech Emilie Conrad - Founder of Continuum Rolfing The Yoga Conference and Show, Toronto March 2019 Mama Nurture Prenatal Yoga Teacher Training Yoga for Pelvic Health Teacher Training, November 2019   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity   Quotes from this episode:   "A somanaut is someone who navigates the body, who sails the inner seas."   "For movers, fascia is key. If you, I feel, have no conception of what's going on inside your body, it's a little trickier to embody what's going on inside your body."   "You've got one body, many textures, differential movement, without any separation."   "I always invite people when they're wanting to learn about the gift of the body, to start with a place of appreciation."   "Our superficial fascia, we can approach it from a place of appreciation."   "Scars are good. Scars are a blessing. Scars represent our healing function."   "If you want to move differently, you have to move out differently."

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast 097: Focusing In On Your Niche [Consultation Call] with Susan Hopkinson   Description:   Do you have trouble finding your niche and communicating your unique offering as a yoga teacher to your audience? The niche work that you do in your business is an ongoing process, and it can be difficult to clarify that in your messaging. On this consultation call, Shannon guides Susan Hopkinson through some of her struggles in this area.   Susan Hopkinson is a writer, mother, and yoga therapist. She started practicing yoga in 1985 and became a yoga teacher in 1998. As a yoga therapist who has studied with teachers from all over the world, including Europe, India and North America, Susan believes in teaching people, not poses. On top of writing and teaching yoga, she also offers retreats in both Europe and India.   With such a wide array of services, Susan grapples communicating her niche to her audience. After teaching group classes for over 20 years, she finds her calling in teaching more 1:1 yoga therapy, but isn’t sure of how to convey that to her students. Shannon helps Susan identify some key strategies that will help her focus more on her niche - from updating her website to content creation for her newsletter, to becoming more active on social media.   This episode is full of great tips on how to effectively market your niche to your audience, and to make sure that people know about your unique offering as a yoga teacher. Whether you’re looking for ideas on how best to clarify your message or strategies for sharing content on different channels, this episode is sure to give you some ideas.   Key Takeaways: [4:40] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Susan Hopkinson. [6:29] Who does Susan work with, and what kind of work does she do with them? [8:51] How would Susan define the work that she does? [11:14] Susan explains more about her move away from group yoga classes to more individualized attention to the student. [12:26] How is Susan finding students to work within her niche? [14:53] Susan struggles with the guilt of not teaching group classes anymore. Shannon and Susan walk through her difficulties overcoming that guilt, and how best to tackle that. [19:34] Susan's website does not immediately showcase her key value proposition. Shannon has some ideas on how she can niche down. [22:12] What questions was Susan being asked in relation to the 1:1 work she wants to offer? Shannon and Susan discuss how that could fuel the content she was creating in her newsletter. [26:09] Susan shares how she is using her newsletter to drive traffic to her website through the content she creates. [29:08] How is Susan sharing content on social media channels? Shannon gives Susan some "homework" to up her game on social media. [34:53] Susan and Shannon work through her calendar to create a more cohesive calendar that makes sense to her work style, commitments, and financial needs. [40:20] Susan and Shannon talk through Susan's clientele and brainstorm ideas on booking clients, and some mindset issues associated with that. [45:30] Susan touches on her challenge with offering yoga therapy - that if you're doing your job, the client will not be coming back. [50:24] You need to create original content for social media. Shannon shares some ideas for creating original content with Susan. [53:44] Video gets higher engagement than anything. Susan and Shannon work through if this medium would be a good fit for her. [55:30] Shannon has some advice for Susan on picking the right season for each of her offerings. [59:29] Get in touch with Susan via her website to book a session. [1:01:33] Shannon suggests some activities you can try if you're looking to niche down and clarify your offering.   Links: Susan Hopkinson, Inspiration Yoga Susan Hopkinson on Facebook Susan Hopkinson on Instagram Inspiration Facebook Page NamasteLight MailChimp Calendly The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Episode 086: Live Video for Yoga Teachers with Ian Gray The Yoga Conference and Show, Toronto March 2019 Mama Nurture Prenatal Yoga Teacher Training Yoga for Pelvic Health Teacher Training, November 2019   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity   Quotes from this episode:   "90% of the time, I'm not working with postural yoga. I'm working with yoga around mindset, around focus, around working with mudra, working with mantra, working with all the different aspects of yoga that are a little bit more obscure nowadays." - Susan   "I get a lot of people coming that are the wrong people." - Susan   "We want to know immediately when we get to your homepage who you work for, and what you offer them." - Shannon   "Most of the time, it's that people have no idea what you do offer." - Shannon   "I try to keep my business in line with my yoga." - Susan   "The way I look at it is if you have repeat clients, it's because you're not doing your job. So it's kind of like you put yourself out of your own market." - Susan   "Video gets higher engagement than anything." - Shannon

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast 096: How to Create a Yoga Practice Habit with Matt Kowald   Description:   How can you form a yoga practice habit? Do you want to do more in your yoga practice but find it hard to form a routine around it? Perhaps you’ve formed an unwanted habit you’d like to remove. Matt Kowald, co-author and co-founder of Yogis Journal, joins Shannon to discuss what it takes to create and maintain a yoga practice habit.   Matt is a varsity wrestler originally from Australia who now lives in Canada. His athletic life sparked an interest into habits, routines and journaling, and he began his yoga practice in 2013. Matt is a personal trainer and yoga teacher who has studied exercise, sport and rehabilitation science, and is currently studying kinesiology at Brock University.   The Yogis Journal is a beautiful journal rooted in the 8 limbs, with the intention of helping people create meaningful rituals and habits around yoga. Matt and Shannon dive into the intricacies of what it takes to form and maintain routines and habits, particularly around your yoga practice. Matt also has some great insights about self-love, following through on goals, and the science behind it all.   If you have been wanting to add in a new habit, or if you help yoga students with their at-home yoga practice, this episode is full of incredible tips and tricks. Stay tuned to the end of the episode to find out about the amazing offer Matt has for listeners, and Shannon has a gift for three lucky listeners as well!   Key Takeaways: [4:16] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Matt Kowald. [6:01] Shannon shares her experiences using the Yogis Journal in her yoga practice. [8:59] What got Matt interested in the work of helping people with their habits around yoga? [9:58] Matt is from Australia but moved to Canada. What brought him to Canada? [10:59] What got Matt into yoga? [11:32] How did Matt carve out the time for all his activities, university and designing the Yogis Journal? [12:40] Coffee is a trigger for Matt to be more creative in the morning. How does that work? [13:59] How can we build a habit of doing yoga daily? Matt explains the idea behind hot and cold triggers. [17:04] What is Matt's suggestion for overcoming habits that have been formed that aren't very positive? [20:27] What are Matt's thoughts on using a reward system as a motivator? [21:51] The most important part is setting up a small step. Shannon and Matt discuss why even a small step in the right direction is a good thing. [24:05] How can we cope with our perfectionist tendencies, or when we fall away from our daily practice? [26:17] In terms of daily practice, how long does it take to form a habit? [29:07] What's the best time of day to set up a habit? [30:32] What is the best way to approach incorporating a yoga habit in our lives? [32:11] Shannon and Matt talk through some of her own struggles with maintaining a daily yoga practice. [34:32] What other tips has Matt learned through the years about forming habits? [36:14] What is Matt's advice to people who feel that they want to make all the changes, all at once? [39:12] Everyone sets goals for the New Year, but hardly anyone follows through on them. How can we come back to starting our habits again? [42:12] What motivated Matt to create the Yogis Journal? [45:47] Matt explains how he uses his own Yogis Journal as a trigger for himself. [47:45] What other advice does Matt have for yoga teachers struggling with their practice or helping others set up their own practice? [49:30] Check out Yogis Journal at the website, and do email Matt if you have any questions. [50:33] Share your thoughts about this episode, your struggles with your personal practice and any other key takeaways with Shannon. [53:31] Shannon is giving away three Yogis Journals - find out how you can participate in this giveaway!   Links: Yogi's Journal (Use code TCYT20 to get 20% off from Dec 24 - Jan 2) Yogis Journal on Instagram Email Matt Kowald Yogis Journal Team: Matt Kowald, Laura Jaypalan, Jess Taylor 6 Week Group Program for Yoga Teacher Entrepreneurs with Shannon Crow The Yoga Conference and Show, Toronto March 2019 Mama Nurture Prenatal Yoga Teacher Training Yoga for Pelvic Health Teacher Training, November 2019   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity   Quotes from this episode:   "Using the Yogis Journal is just a really fast way to be intentional and mindful about my day." - Shannon   "I initially discovered yoga trying to obviously become flexible for martial arts and wrestling, because it's really hard on your body, so yoga was that perfect... yin to yang." - Matt   "That's what a habit is. It's just a behavior that becomes automatic, and then we do that so that we can do other tasks, more complex." - Matt   "A hot trigger is something that reminds you to do the behavior when you need to do it." - Matt   "The biggest thing is to come from a place of self-love." - Matt   "If you want to make it a habit, consistency is important. Consistency over volume." - Matt  

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast 095: Making a CEO Business Plan with Shannon Crow   Description: Do you feel like the CEO of your yoga business now? If you don’t, you’re not alone. It is easy to get caught up in doing the “Worker Bee” activities and lose focus of the “Queen Bee” activities you should be doing to keep your business going and growing.   On this episode, Shannon shares some things she has been doing in her own business over the past few weeks in terms of planning. Taking time off to align her vision with what she really loves to do, and her core values has helped her in her business. She has some insights and tips that will help you look at your business with intention, and mindfully.   Shannon takes you through the steps in this CEO planning process that can help you plan for the future, both personally and professionally. She guides you through each step, from meditation to setting goals, and how these steps relate to your yoga business.   This episode is for anyone who feels like they have a million and one ideas and directions they would like to go in, all at the same time, or anyone who always says 'YES' to commitments but struggles to fit that into their actual schedule. If you're looking to plan a better year, a better month, or are just assessing the state of your business at the end of the year, this episode will definitely make an impact on you.   Key Takeaways: [6:22] Shannon gives a shout out to Schedulicity. [7:03] Do you feel like the CEO of your yoga business right now? Do you feel like the “Queen Bee” or the “Worker Bee” in your business? [8:09] Shannon gives thanks to a few people who have influenced the work that she has done over the years. [9:20] Your inner teacher is the best guide for you. Connect with your inner teacher, however you need to do it. [10:41] Shannon shares a personal story about how simple CEO planning can be, and how effective it is when added to your routine. [13:50] Shannon shares her steps for CEO planning. [15:10] Step 1: Meditate. Notice the thoughts that are coming in. [17:28] Step 2: Practice free-flow writing. Don't restrict your thoughts and let them all flow out. [20:06] Step 3: Become a scientist and analyse the data. [22:29] Step 4: Create a Santosha page and another page that is the opposite of a Santosha page. [25:48] Step 5: Write out your 4 areas of importance. [29:33] Step 6: Focus on one thing. [31:58] Step 7: Set measurable goals, systems, and habits. [37:27] Share your own discoveries with this exercise with Shannon, and let her know if you would like to know about more systems!   Links: North Dakota Yoga Conference Insight Timer The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Ep 073: 8 Limbs of Yoga [Part 1] with Shannon Crow The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Ep 074: 8 Limbs of Yoga [Part 2] with Jennie Lee The Art of Charm Podcast Episode 483 - Pat Flynn | Will It Fly? Consultation with Shannon Crow The One Thing, by Gary Keller Content Creation 5-Day Challenge for Yoga Teachers Matt Kowald, The Yogi's Journal 6 Week Group Program for Yoga Teacher Entrepreneurs with Shannon Crow The Yoga Conference and Show, Toronto March 2019 Mama Nurture Prenatal Yoga Teacher Training Yoga for Pelvic Health Teacher Training, November 2019   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity   Quotes from Shannon Crow:   "I've learned that when I take some CEO time where I create a plan for my yoga business, it makes a huge difference."   "Your inner teacher is the best guide for you."   "Your inner teacher knows what you need and what your yoga business needs."   "Let's just really acknowledge that this kind of work takes some bravery. We're digging in and we're uncovering things, and sometimes it's the tough work."   "How were you a rock star in 2018?"

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Ep 94: Instagram Content Strategy and Stories with Tyler McCall   Description: Are you on Instagram? How are you using Instagram as a yoga teacher to market and grow your yoga business with intention? Tyler McCall, social media marketer, strategist, and coach for creatives joins Shannon on this episode to tell you how you can be using Instagram to generate profit, not just popularity, in your business.   Tyler has 10 years of experience working as a community organizer and also in the non-profit marketing and management world. He shifted into focusing on Instagram in 2015, and has since coached hundreds of entrepreneurs, and managed dozens of Instagram accounts.   We sometimes over-complicate things and get so caught up in collecting likes and followers, that we forget that we should be focusing on generating profit, not popularity, with Instagram. Tyler helps to demystify Instagram and shares how you too can become a rock star at using Instagram to tell captivating stories, build relationships and convert followers to fans, and make a profit.   If you're struggling with knowing how to use Instagram as a tool to grow your yoga business, here’s a tip: it's all about being intentional. Find out more about creating an Instagram content strategy with intention with Tyler!   Key Takeaways: [4:35] Shannon introduces her guest for this episode - Tyler McCall. [6:13] How did Tyler get started in creating strategy for Instagram? [9:56] Tyler always puts text over his Instagram stories. Why does he do that? [13:14] What is a content strategy on Instagram? [15:10] Tyler takes us through creating a strategy. [17:24] Shannon and Tyler discuss an example of how to apply this strategy for yoga teachers. [20:25] How can yoga teachers approach Instagram stories? Tyler shares two questions that can help guide your process. [26:34] What is Tyler's advice to people who are worried about not being "perfect" for an Instagram story? [28:57] Tyler has a tip on how to create a good story. [31:05] How many parts of a story should you post? [33:15] The general rule for Instagram is to answer all DMs. How can you manage that? [36:00] Shannon shares her experience with someone who did a video reply to her DM. Tyler speaks to why the different modes of communication on Instagram can help you grow your business. [38:00] Tyler doesn't encourage people to outsource Instagram. Why not? [39:55] Shannon and Tyler discuss sharing other people's posts or content on your own Instagram page. [41:18] How does Tyler work with clients and how can you find out more about him? [43:40] Tyler shares some final do's and don'ts for Instagram. [47:00] Shannon shares her key takeaways and would love for you to do the same - leave a comment in the Show Notes, or start a conversation in the Facebook group!   Links: Tyler McCall Tyler McCall on Instagram The Follower to Fan Society The Follower to Fan Society Facebook Group FreeInstagramClass.com Instagram Roadmap 6 Week Group Program for Yoga Teacher Entrepreneurs with Shannon Crow The Yoga Conference and Show, Toronto March 2019 Mama Nurture Prenatal Yoga Teacher Training Yoga for Pelvic Health Teacher Training, November 2019   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity   Quotes from Tyler McCall:   "A lot of us who are marketing online are not creating fully accessible content for people who consume content differently."   "What I found is that by adding captions to the screen, I'm able to maintain a higher retention rate because ... nearly half of Instagram stories users are not watching with the sound on."   "It all starts with a complete understanding of who you're trying to attract on Instagram."   "If you are using Instagram as a business owner, the goal is profitability."   "The goal is not popularity, the goal is to have a profitable business."   "You are the secret ingredient to your success in business and online in your marketing."   "Your job is to pay attention to your people and what they want to hear from you."   "Show up. Show up as you."   "Don't let your dashes turn into dots!"   "That responding [to DMs] is so important, because that's really where you build the trust and build that relationship with your followers."

The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast Ep 093: How to Build a Home Studio with Jo Stewart and Rane Bowen   Description:   Have you thought of building a home-based studio? What does it really take to get a home yoga studio up and running? What are the challenges you might face, and the biggest pros? Jo Stewart and Rane Bowen are yoga teachers who not only had a home studio, but also built a new one, and on this episode, they reveal the nitty, gritty details of what it takes.   Jo has been teaching yoga for over ten years, and has completed over 2000 hours of teacher training. Rane is a newer yoga teacher, who got into teaching yoga after being diagnosed with stomach cancer and having his stomach removed in 2015. Rane is originally from New Zealand, but moved to Australia, where he and Jo live, teach yoga and host a podcast together.   Jo and Rane share their experiences in setting up their first home studio, and their process in recently building a new one. They dive into how they engage their followers on social media, and how they showcase their studio to generate publicity and grow their business. From the financial aspect of running a home studio, to the props you need, and even the challenges that come with setting boundaries - Jo, Rane and Shannon examine the intricacies of a yoga home studio.   If you’ve ever wondered about how to build and maintain not only a yoga studio but also your own personal yoga practice, this episode with Jo and Rane is sure to give you some deep insights and actionable steps.   Key Takeaways: [5:19] Shannon introduces her guests for this episode - Jo Stewart and Rane Bowen [7:02] What got Jo and Rane started in yoga? What was their first yoga class like? [10:01] What led Jo and Rane to start the podcast? [12:21] Why did Jo and Rane decide to open a yoga studio? [13:17] Jo talks about their journey of opening their yoga studio, and now recently re-doing the space. [15:31] Jo shares some of her fears, concerns and joys around starting from scratch to rebuild the home studio. [18:03] What are the challenges of having your own space vs teaching at other spaces? [21:03] How many people can Jo and Rane's home space accommodate? [21:41] What are some of the big pros of having your own space? [23:50] Jo speaks to the financial aspects of setting up and running a home studio. [25:57] Rane shares more about his other gigs in addition to teaching yoga. [29:13] What are some of the things that really make a good space? [34:02] What are some of the essential props necessary for a home studio? [36:41] How many other teachers use the space? [38:57] Jo highlights some of her success with print advertising and getting the word out about the studio. [43:00] Shannon and Jo walk through the process from a students' perspective. [44:07] What are some policies or rules they've had to establish for their space? [47:02] How does Jo keep in touch with students in between classes? [48:24] One-on-one vs. group classes. Jo breaks down the makeup of the classes she teaches. [49:47] What do Jo and Rane see in the future for their business? [52:42] What advice do Jo and Rane have for other people who are working together as couples? [55:31] Jo and Rane share some advice for yoga teachers. [57:39] What are some things that help in their own practice? [59:42] Jo and Rane leave us with some final thoughts for teachers who are doubting themselves or feeling isolated. [1:04:12] Get in touch with Jo and Rane via their website, Facebook group, and on social media! [1:04:51] Shannon would love to hear from you - do reach out to connect with her virtually or in person! Links: Jo Stewart and Rane Bowen The Flow Artists Podcast The Flow Artists Podcast Community Facebook Group Garden of Yoga Garden of Yoga on Facebook Jo Stewart on Instagram @gardenofyoga The Flow Artists Podcast Episode 1: I'm a Yoga Teacher, Now What? The Flow Artists Podcast Episode 35: One Year On - Now What? The Roll Model, by Jill Miller The Flow Artists Podcast Episode 14: Leigh Blashki - Non-Duality, Authenticity and Practicality 6 Week Group Program for Yoga Teacher Entrepreneurs with Shannon Crow The Yoga Conference and Show, Toronto March 2019 Mama Nurture Prenatal Yoga Teacher Training Yoga for Pelvic Health Teacher Training, November 2019 Content Creation 5-Day Challenge for Yoga Teachers   Gratitude to our Sponsor Schedulicity   Quotes from this episode:   "Yoga just kinda got me out of that tortured artist paradigm. It really helped me creatively, but also just mentally and emotionally - I just got so many benefits from it." - Jo   "I never liked the idea of signing a lease, and having a whole lot of financial pressure on me as new business was growing, so always just made sense to me to do it at home!" - Jo   "You don't want to leave all of your promotion and stuff till the end. Get started early! Share your vision, share your ideas!" - Jo   "If you are not putting a load of energy into your home space, you don't often get a lot of people coming." - Jo   "It's almost like you're just going and hanging out with some people, and sharing some stuff that you really enjoy doing with them." - Rane   "We're a body-positive studio, we're really inclusive, and we really wanted to show different ages, different body types, just like yoga is for everyone." - Jo   "If you want to work on your self-love, and just feeling good about yourself -  that's what this practice is for!" - Jo