The Somatic Coaching Academy Podcast - podcast cover

The Somatic Coaching Academy Podcast

Somatics has always been at the core of Ani and Brian’s professional expertise, but that’s not what makes them a dynamic duo. Ani and Brian are life and business partners and the “yin” to the other’s “yang.” They share stories from their professional lives as well as their personal lives to better explain and illustrate the power of somatic techniques. 


After more than a decade working independently, Ani and Brian combined forces. Together they have over 86,000 hours of client experience, more than 20 certifications and half a century working helping people learn to develop self and professional mastery. After leaving the Western Medical system and creating their own private pay holistic rehabilitation practices, they went on to create two wellness centers and two international training centers together. Their expert knowledge of physiology combined with multiple certifications in energy medicine, eastern movement practices like tai chi and qigong, meditation, mindfulness and manual therapies combined with coaching methodology ultimately led to the formation of The Somatic Coaching Academy. Through the lens of coaching, Brian and Ani have developed a comprehensive curriculum for learning somatic modalities that anyone can learn. You don’t need to be a psychologist to deeply help people transform their lives and heal long held problems, both physical and emotional.  The trauma-sensitive coaching solutions taught at the Somatic Coaching Academy will outperform conventional western coaching and therapeutic practices.  Episodes of this show are packed with useful information and lessons on precisely this topic.


In this hectic and precarious world, everyone should have equal access to whatever resources they need to thrive. Using innovative trauma-sensitive somatic coaching methods, Brian and Ani will help you master client work. Learn the ins and outs of a variety of holistic methods so you can provide truly life-changing outcomes for your clientele.

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Episodes

How Coaches Can Help Their Clients Declare Independence from Self-Judgment

Ever feel like the harshest critic in your life is... you? In this heartfelt and eye-opening episode of the Somatic Coaching Academy Podcast, hosts Ani Anderson and Brian Trzaskos explore what it really means to declare independence from self-judgment. From uncovering where these critical inner voices come from to sharing raw personal stories and offering a radically different somatic approach to empowerment, this conversation goes far deeper than positive thinking or mindset hacks. Join us for ...

Jul 03, 202533 minSeason 1Ep. 88

Key Lessons from a Kripalu Core Centering Retreat

Ever wonder what peanut butter bars, gong baths, and somatic transformation have in common? In this laughter-filled episode of the Somatic Coaching Academy Podcast, hosts Ani Anderson and Brian Trzaskos take you behind the scenes of their recent Core Centering Practitioner Training retreat at Kripalu. From the magic of communal meals to the science of nervous system resets, they share key moments of joy, deep rest, and aha insights that only happen in person. Join us for a heartfelt, hilarious, ...

Jun 26, 202536 minSeason 1Ep. 87

How Coaches Can Help Solve Their Clients' Motivational Conflicts

Is your client stuck, overwhelmed, or sabotaging their own goals—despite saying they want change? Chances are, they’re experiencing a motivational conflict—and most coaches aren’t trained to spot it. In this insightful and entertaining episode, Ani Anderson and Brian Trzaskos unpack the three levels of motivation that drive human behavior: away from, toward, and by. You’ll learn why “accountability” often masks deeper energy misalignments, how to harness dopamine wisely, and how to help clients ...

Jun 19, 202538 minSeason 1Ep. 86

Can you really trust your intuition?

Ever wondered if you can truly trust your intuition—or if it's just your subconscious fear wearing a clever disguise? In this thought-provoking episode of the Somatic Coaching Academy Podcast, hosts Ani Anderson and Brian Trzaskos unpack the real nature of intuition—what it is, where it comes from, and how you can tell the difference between an intuitive nudge and subconscious resistance. With personal stories, light-hearted humor, and grounded insights from their coaching practice, Ani and Bria...

Jun 12, 202528 minSeason 1Ep. 85

Debunking the Myth of Negativity Bias

Is “negativity bias” keeping you stuck—and is it even real? In this thought-provoking episode of the Somatic Coaching Academy Podcast, Ani Anderson and Brian Trzaskos unravel the science behind so-called "negative thinking" and challenge the widely accepted concept of the negativity bias. Drawing on neuroscience, personal stories, and their signature somatic coaching wisdom, they reveal how what’s often labeled as “negative” is actually the body’s brilliant way of protecting us. Join us for a po...

Jun 05, 202526 minSeason 1Ep. 84

You²: A High-Velocity Formula For Multiplying Your Personal Effectiveness in Quantum Leaps - Book Report

What if the only thing standing between you and your biggest breakthrough is… trying too hard? 🤯 In this episode of the Somatic Coaching Academy Podcast, hosts Ani Anderson and Brian Trzaskos dive into You² by Price Pritchett—a tiny book with a massive message about making quantum leaps in your personal and professional life. Forget step-by-step progress and grinding it out. This conversation explores what real transformation looks like, why “messy” is necessary, and how to stop banging your he...

May 29, 202532 minSeason 1Ep. 83

How Leaders Can Turn Around Loss of Employee Purpose at Work

Is your team quietly disengaging while still clocking in every day? You’re not imagining it — and you’re not alone. In this eye-opening episode, hosts Ani Anderson and Brian Trzaskos dive into the growing phenomenon dubbed The Great Detachment. Inspired by new Gallup research, they unpack the real reasons employees are losing their sense of purpose — and why the old tactics for motivation aren’t cutting it anymore. From post-pandemic burnout to broken performance systems, Ani and Brian call out ...

May 22, 202525 minSeason 1Ep. 82

How Leaders Can Embrace Transformation in a BANI World

Are you feeling like the world is breaking faster than you can keep up? You’re not alone — and there’s a reason for it. In this eye-opening episode of the Somatic Coaching Academy Podcast, hosts Ani Anderson and Brian Trzaskos unpack the rising relevance of the BANI world — a powerful framework that captures the emotional chaos of our current reality: Brittle, Anxious, Nonlinear, Incomprehensible. They explore how BANI evolved from the older VUCA model, why anxiety isn’t something to just “refra...

May 15, 202526 minSeason 1Ep. 81

Wellness Coaching for Chronic Pain: Part 2 - The Practice

What if the pain you’ve been chasing isn’t just physical — but a call from deep within your nervous system, asking to be seen, felt, and healed? In this deeply moving and eye-opening episode of the Somatic Coaching Academy Podcast, hosts Ani Anderson and Brian Trzaskos continue their two-part series on Wellness Coaching for Chronic Pain with a powerful blend of science, somatic wisdom, and personal transformation. Brian shares a pivotal story of chronic pain, emotional breakthrough, and lasting ...

May 08, 202542 minSeason 1Ep. 80

Wellness Coaching for Chronic Pain: Part 1 - The Science

Why does chronic pain persist—even after the body has healed? In this eye-opening episode of the Somatic Coaching Academy Podcast, hosts Brian Trzaskos and Ani Anderson peel back the layers of outdated pain science and reveal a groundbreaking truth: pain is not what we were taught it is. From Brian’s personal 27-year journey with debilitating back pain to surprising research on emotional suppression and social dynamics, this conversation reframes chronic pain as a powerful mind-body phenomenon. ...

May 01, 202548 minSeason 1Ep. 79

How Coaches Can Help Clients to Stop Negative Thinking

Are negative thoughts really the problem—or is there something deeper at play? 🤔 In this episode of the Somatic Coaching Academy Podcast, hosts Ani Anderson and Brian Trzaskos dive into the misunderstood world of negative thinking. They challenge the common belief that eliminating negative thoughts is the key to happiness and instead reveal how distressing sensations—not the thoughts themselves—are what truly hold us back. Through engaging conversation, personal insights, and real-world coachin...

Apr 24, 202523 minSeason 1Ep. 78

How Coaches Can Get Better Outcomes and Retain Clients By Integrating Somatic Exercises In Sessions

Are you leaving transformation on the table? Too many coaches struggle to get deep, lasting results with their clients because they’re missing a key piece: the body. In this episode, Ani Anderson and Brian Trzaskos explore how integrating somatic exercises into coaching sessions can improve client outcomes, boost retention, and even grow your business. Learn what somatic exercises really are (and what they aren’t), why they’re becoming a must-have coaching tool, and how to start using them today...

Apr 17, 202530 minSeason 1Ep. 77

How Leaders Can Use Morning Routines to Help Their People be More Healthy and Productive

Ever feel like your mornings set the tone for your entire day—whether for better or worse? You're not alone. In this episode of the Somatic Coaching Academy Podcast, hosts Brian Trzaskos and Ani Anderson dive deep into the power of morning routines—not just for productivity but for true, holistic well-being. They explore why most advice on morning routines is incomplete, how leaders at every level (including you!) can create a routine that actually works, and the three essential elements every e...

Apr 10, 202530 minSeason 1Ep. 76

Ready to Hit Reset? How Leaders Can Stay Sane, Healthy, and Productive During Long Periods of Chaos

If you'd like to measure your stress, you can use this index: https://www.dartmouth.edu/eap/library/lifechangestresstest.pdf Feeling overwhelmed by constant change? You’re not alone. In this episode of the Somatic Coaching Academy Podcast, hosts Ani Anderson and Brian Trzaskos dive into the impact of unpredictable, chaotic change on our nervous systems—and why simply "pushing through" isn’t sustainable. They explore the science of stress, the hidden dangers of an overloaded system, and the criti...

Apr 03, 202544 minSeason 1Ep. 75

How to Escape the Drama Triangle

Are you stuck in drama without even realizing it? The Drama Triangle—where we unconsciously take on the roles of Victim, Perpetrator, or Hero—can keep us trapped in conflict and frustration. In this episode, Ani Anderson and Brian Trzaskos break down how these patterns play out in relationships, work, and even within ourselves. More importantly, they reveal a powerful alternative: the Empowerment Dynamic, where you can shift from feeling stuck to stepping into real agency over your life. Join us...

Mar 27, 202526 minSeason 1Ep. 74

Somatic Exercises for Grief and Loss

Grief is quiet, deep, and often overlooked—but it doesn’t have to be faced alone. In this episode of the Somatic Coaching Academy Podcast, hosts Ani Anderson and Brian Trzaskos explore the profound connection between grief, loss, and the body. Discover why depression is the brain’s way of protecting us from pain, how shutting down grief also shuts down joy, and why gentle somatic practices can help us safely reconnect with life. Join us for simple, practical exercises that melt the freeze of gri...

Mar 20, 202526 minSeason 1Ep. 73

The 4 Steps to Conscious Change

What if the key to real change wasn’t about willpower, but about how you put on your pants? 🤔 In this episode of the Somatic Coaching Academy Podcast, hosts Ani Anderson and Brian Trzaskos break down the four essential steps to conscious change—and why most people get stuck before they ever truly transform. From hilarious personal experiments (Brian’s pants challenge, anyone?) to deep insights on how subconscious patterns shape our lives, this conversation will shift the way you think about cha...

Mar 13, 202522 minSeason 1Ep. 72

Top Lessons for Coaches from Inside the Somatic Coach Professional Coaching Retreat

What if transformation wasn’t just something you facilitated for your clients—but something you deeply experienced yourself? In this episode, Ani Anderson and Brian Trzaskos take you behind the scenes of the Level 3 Somatic Coach Professional Retreat, where powerful shifts happen, laughter is abundant, and the true art of coaching comes to life. From mastering the balance of “working with” vs. “being with” to unlocking the power of precise language and natural law questions, we’re sharing the bi...

Mar 06, 202526 minSeason 1Ep. 71

How To Move From Mindless to Mindful and What It Means for Your Health

In this episode of the Somatic Coaching Academy Podcast, hosts Ani Anderson and Brian Trzaskos explore the journey from mindless to mindful living—and why it’s one of the most important shifts you can make for your health and happiness. Inspired by Ellen Langer’s groundbreaking research, they dive into the science behind mindfulness, how stress drives disease, and why being present in the “now” is so transformative. From practical tips like mindful showers and silent car rides to understanding t...

Feb 27, 202545 minSeason 1Ep. 70

Are Sensations the Secret Bridge Between Body, Mind, and Spirit?

In this episode of the Somatic Coaching Academy Podcast, hosts Ani Anderson and Brian Trzaskos take a deep dive into the fascinating idea that sensations might be the true intersection of our physical, mental, and spiritual selves. From defining body, mind, and spirit to exploring how sensory experiences connect us to emotions and even mystical moments, this conversation blends science, philosophy, and heartfelt personal stories. Join us for an eye-opening exploration of how your sensations can ...

Feb 20, 202534 minSeason 1Ep. 69

Calling ICF coaches - Embodying a Coaching Mindset and Maintaining Presence with Somatic Coaching

Are you ready to rethink everything you thought you knew about emotions, presence, and mindset in coaching? In this episode of the Somatic Coaching Academy Podcast, hosts Ani Anderson and Brian Trzaskos take a deep dive into two essential ICF core competencies: embodying a coaching mindset and maintaining presence. They explore how somatic coaching disrupts outdated ideas about the body-mind split, reveal the true nature of emotional regulation, and share practical insights on how coaches can sh...

Feb 13, 202530 minSeason 1Ep. 68

Top 10 Questions of Aspiring Coaches Inspired by Their Own Somatic Transformations

Have you ever wondered how to turn your life-changing somatic experiences into a fulfilling career? In this episode, hosts Ani Anderson and Brian Trzaskos dive into the top 10 questions aspiring coaches ask about transitioning into the world of somatic coaching. From understanding the difference between somatic therapy and coaching to exploring career paths, essential skills, and trauma-sensitive practices, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Join us for an inspiring and practical c...

Feb 06, 202540 minSeason 1Ep. 67

How Mental Health Practitoners Can Help More Clients with Somatic Practices

In this episode of the Somatic Coaching Academy Podcast, hosts Ani Anderson and Brian Trzaskos dive into the transformative power of somatic practices for mental health professionals. From understanding the nervous system’s role in behavior change to exploring practical tools like breathwork and mindful movement, this conversation is packed with insights that empower practitioners to make a lasting impact on their clients—and themselves. Join us for actionable strategies, fresh perspectives, and...

Jan 30, 202535 minSeason 1Ep. 66

Using the ELI Assessment to Measure Levels of Consciousness

In this thought-provoking episode of the Somatic Coaching Academy Podcast, hosts Ani Anderson and Brian Trzaskos dive into the transformative power of the Energy Leadership Index (ELI). Ever wondered why your energy shifts under stress or how your attitudes influence your leadership style? Ani and Brian explore the seven energy levels, the critical distinction between catabolic and anabolic energy, and how attitudinal assessments like the ELI can unlock profound self-awareness and growth. Join u...

Jan 23, 202530 minSeason 1Ep. 65

Physical Therapists and Somatic Coaching, Is it a Match?

Join hosts Ani Anderson and Brian Trzaskos as they dive deep into the transformative potential of combining somatic coaching with physical therapy. From redefining evidence-based practices to tackling chronic pain through behavioral change, this episode is packed with insights, research, and inspiring stories (including a remarkable recovery from traumatic brain injury!). If you're a healthcare professional looking to bridge the gap between mind, body, and spirit in your practice, this conversat...

Jan 16, 202537 minSeason 1Ep. 64

How to Cultivate Safety Even in What Feels Like a Dangerous World

Join Ani Anderson and Brian Trzaskos in this thought-provoking episode of the Somatic Coaching Academy Podcast as they dive into the timely topic of cultivating safety—both internally and externally. From grounding practices to navigating a rapidly changing global landscape, Ani and Brian share practical tips, heartfelt insights, and real-life strategies to help you find your footing in challenging times. Join us for an empowering conversation packed with tools to create calm, stability, and res...

Jan 09, 202538 minSeason 1Ep. 63

Top Questions Bodyworkers Have About Somatic Coaching

Ever wondered how somatic coaching could transform your bodywork practice? In this episode, Ani Anderson and Brian Trzaskos dive into the top 10 questions bodyworkers have about somatic coaching, exploring how these practices go beyond traditional bodywork to foster deeper healing and self-awareness. From understanding trauma sensitivity to enhancing chronic pain relief and even saving your hands from burnout, they cover it all with practical insights and real-life examples. Join us for a powerf...

Jan 02, 202544 minEp. 62

Top Questions Women’s Health and Empowerment Coaches Have About Somatic Coaching

Unlock the secrets of true empowerment through the body and mind! In this episode, hosts Ani Anderson and Brian Trzaskos dive into transformative questions from women’s health and empowerment coaches, exploring how somatic coaching can be a powerful tool for building self-worth, understanding core wounds, and fostering resilience. Together, they unpack how our nervous systems shape self-esteem, why addressing body image goes beyond the surface, and how to create lasting change with trauma-sensit...

Dec 26, 202444 minSeason 1Ep. 61

Top Questions New Wellness Coaches Have About Somatic Coaching

Are you a wellness coach eager to make a lasting impact but struggling with common client challenges? In this episode, hosts Ani Anderson and Brian Trzaskos dive deep into the top questions new wellness coaches have about somatic coaching, from powerful beginner techniques to integrating trauma-sensitive practices. Discover the unique benefits of somatic methods over traditional coaching approaches and learn practical tips for building credibility, connecting with clients, and growing your busin...

Dec 19, 202436 minSeason 1Ep. 60

Top Questions Established Coaches and Therapists Have About Somatic Coaching

Ever wondered why some clients stay “stuck” despite years of therapy? In this episode, hosts Ani Anderson and Brian Trzaskos dive into the top questions coaches and therapists have about somatic coaching, unraveling the mysteries of body-centered practices and why they’re essential for breakthroughs that last. From building credibility with skeptical clients to addressing trauma safely and effectively, Ani and Brian cover it all, sharing insights and tools that can reshape how you approach your ...

Dec 12, 202443 minSeason 1Ep. 59
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