In this episode, Giana reconnects with Emma, who’s back on the podcast after a year and a half to share her journey from leaving corporate studios to becoming her own boss. Emma dives into how she built a fully booked schedule filled with private lessons and exclusive group classes, offering insights on earning your worth, breaking free from rigid sequencing, and embracing diverse movement modalities. They also tackle deeper industry topics like whitewashing, the dynamics of private lessons, and...
Aug 26, 2024•1 hr 16 min•Season 2Ep. 76
In this episode, Bradshaw and Giana dive deep into the world of common yoga injuries—what causes them and how to avoid them. They share personal stories about their own yoga-related mishaps, providing insights into why these injuries occur and how to maintain a balanced, mindful practice to stay injury-free. With a special PSA for yoga teachers on understanding their scope of practice, they also offer practical tips to troubleshoot challenging postures. But it wouldn’t be The Funny Thing About Y...
Aug 19, 2024•35 min•Season 2Ep. 75
In this open-hearted episode, Bradshaw and Giana dive deep into their experience of partnering together. They share the ups and downs, the benefits, and the pitfalls of working closely with someone else. With a mix of humor and honesty, they reveal some funny behind-the-scenes stories and offer valuable advice for anyone considering a partnership. They also discuss how this collaboration has sparked significant growth opportunities and encouraged personal introspection. If you've ever thought ab...
Aug 12, 2024•49 min•Season 2Ep. 74
In this episode, Bradshaw and Giana dive into a candid discussion about the hidden pitfalls of complacency in yoga teaching. After years of guiding students, they’ve both experienced moments of coasting through their roles, losing the spark that once fueled their passion. They explore the fine line between complacency and contentment, sharing personal stories of when and why they’ve felt stuck—whether it's from teaching at the same studio for too long, feeling uninspired by their practice or col...
Aug 05, 2024•50 min•Season 2Ep. 73
Today, we're thrilled to have Quinn Kearney, a Chicago-based yoga teacher and co-founder of Yogaview, joining us. Quinn has been in the yoga world for over 20 years, and he's here to share his journey from the beginnings of his yoga practice to the challenges and rewards of owning a studio for over two decades. We dive into the rise and popularity of yoga, the business aspects of owning a studio, and how diversifying yoga offerings requires innovation. We discuss how passion for teaching is esse...
Jul 29, 2024•53 min•Season 2Ep. 72
Join us for our monthly bonus episode, where we kick things off with some chitchat about sharing a room on a retreat and all the exciting things we have going on. Then, we dive right into your burning questions. We cover topics like: the best way to begin a yoga class, Advice for when pregnant women attend advanced classes, and whether moving from closed hip to open hip postures is okay. This episode is both informative and funny, so don't miss out! Important Time Markers: 04:30 - Q1: What’s the...
Jul 25, 2024•28 min
In this episode, Bradshaw and Giana kick things off by discussing the importance of decluttering, letting go, and the process of moving. They then dive deep into the topic of repetition, exploring how it's a vital tool for learning and increasing awareness. They detail the many ways repetition benefits a yoga practice, particularly in sequencing, and delve into the different methods of sequencing. Giana explains the concepts of a vignette versus a ladder flow, and both hosts share their personal...
Jul 22, 2024•40 min•Season 2Ep. 71
Join us today as we sit down with Stephanie Snyder, a seasoned yoga teacher and mentor from San Francisco with over 25 years of experience. Known for her impactful teachings, Stephanie leads trainings, retreats, and boasts a significant online presence. In this episode, Stephanie generously shares her journey, from humble beginnings to founding Love Story Yoga. She imparts invaluable wisdom gained through years of teaching, reflecting on learning from mistakes, turning to Bhakti, and stepping in...
Jul 15, 2024•55 min•Season 2Ep. 70
In this episode, we delve into the subtle yet profound impact of silence within the yoga studio. Join us as we navigate the delicate balance of providing cues while allowing space for personal reflection and mindfulness. We discuss the art of minimal cuing—when less is more—and explore how excessive guidance can detract from the practice. Delving into the contentious topic of music in yoga, we compare teaching with music to the purity of silence, examining how each can influence the yoga experie...
Jul 08, 2024•44 min•Season 2Ep. 69
Join Giana and Bradshaw on their latest episode as they delve into their viral Instagram post that prompted yoga teachers to share their least favorite yoga cues, igniting a spirited debate. They discuss the importance of feedback and growth in yoga teaching, stressing the need to understand the "why" behind preferences. Navigating social media without controversy is one of their goals, alongside educating and fostering community. In this candid episode, they explore the subjective nuances and s...
Jul 01, 2024•41 min•Season 2Ep. 68
Catch our monthly bonus episode, where we dive right into your burning questions. We discuss our first memories of each other, collaboration challenges, and how to know when you’re strong enough to work on a pose. This concise episode is one you won't want to miss. Important Time Markers: 01:45 - Q1: First Memory of Each Other 10:05 - Q2: Collaborative Challenges 16:00 - Q3: How Do You Know When You’re Strong Enough For a Pose? SEND YOUR QUESTIONS TO: CAYAYOGASCHOOL@GMAIL.COM CHECK OUT OUR 300-H...
Jun 27, 2024•23 min
Join us as we delve into a transformative conversation on Pride, guided by the principles of yoga. In this episode, we explore the rich tapestry of Pride, weaving through its historical roots, the courage to come out, and the poignant impact of the AIDS epidemic. From intergenerational perspectives to the complexities of self-acceptance, we candidly navigate It all. We discuss the importance of community and resilience and share anecdotes on how yoga philosophy offers profound insights into the ...
Jun 24, 2024•52 min•Season 2Ep. 67
Join Giana and Bradshaw in the latest episode of 'The Funny Thing About Yoga' as they sit down with their yoga teacher and mentor, Jason Crandell. They're beyond honored to have him on the podcast, reminiscing about their training days in San Francisco and catching up on what he's been up to since then. In this enlightening conversation, they cover a wide range of topics, from navigating the yoga industry to reality TV—nothing is off the table. They even put Jason in the hot seat with a rapid-fi...
Jun 17, 2024•59 min•Season 2Ep. 66
Join Bradshaw and Giana in this insightful episode of Navigating Changes where they dive into the dynamic world of growth and development as a yoga teacher. They cover everything from transitioning between studios and evolving teaching styles to innovating class sequences. Whether you're a self-starter or looking to adapt post-pandemic, this episode offers valuable insights on building resilience, managing relocations, negotiating pay, and creating new opportunities. Bradshaw and Giana share the...
Jun 10, 2024•50 min•Season 2Ep. 65
In today's episode, Bradshaw and Giana delve into the significance of doing simple things well or mastering the basics. They explore the complexity of the Vinyasa practice and emphasize the importance of moving through the foundational postures with precision. Understanding that "well" varies for each individual, they share insights on achieving comfort and ease in these postures. Bradshaw and Giana highlight the teacher's role in guiding students to move with integrity and give teachers a ton o...
Jun 03, 2024•41 min•Season 2Ep. 64
Catch our monthly bonus episode, where we dive right into your burning questions. We discuss how to bounce back from teaching a "bad class," our class preparation techniques, and whether we attend each other's classes. This concise episode is one you won't want to miss. Important Time Markers: 01:45 - Q1: Teaching a Bad Class 04:50 - Q2: Prepping for Class 10:45 - Q3: Taking Each Other’s Classes SEND YOUR QUESTIONS TO: CAYAYOGASCHOOL@GMAIL.COM CHECK OUT OUR 300-Hour YTT: https://www.cayayogascho...
May 30, 2024•12 min
Join Bradshaw and Giana in this special Mental Health Awareness Month episode as they dive into the crucial role the nervous system plays in mental health, particularly concerning anxiety. They explore the intricacies of the autonomic nervous system, discuss the importance of somatics, and share practical ways to shift out of fight or flight mode. Drawing from their personal journeys, Bradshaw and Giana emphasize that true healing requires more than just yoga—it involves a variety of modalities ...
May 27, 2024•50 min•Season 2Ep. 63
In this episode, we’re thrilled to welcome Christina Gambino-Gordon! Christina shares her inspiring journey of turning to yoga during a tough injury, drawing on her extensive background in gymnastics, and her exciting new passion for Ninja Warrior. We dive into the benefits of cross-training, the best gymnastics tips for mastering handstands, and strategies to tackle fear. Bradshaw gets answers to burning questions about gymnastics just in time for the Summer Olympics. Plus, we share a ton of st...
May 20, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Season 2Ep. 62
Join Giana and Bradshaw in a reflective conversation on the state of modern yoga in the United States and its parallels with the fitness industry. They delve into whether the contemporary yoga scene has veered too far towards fitness, neglecting its spiritual essence. Sharing personal journeys, they discuss their initial attraction to yoga's physical aspects and how it led them to delve deeper into self-discovery and spirituality. They question if practices like yoga sculpt and hot yoga overshad...
May 13, 2024•49 min•Season 2Ep. 61
Join us as we catch up with Claire Mark, a seasoned teacher whose journey winds through the vibrant landscapes of 90s NYC, Los Angeles, and the burgeoning yoga scene of Chicago. We explore the evolving dynamics of the Chicago yoga community, from the rise of studios to the changes in class formats to the importance of simplicity in practice. Claire shares her insights on diversifying teaching outlets to prevent burnout, her most memorable successes, and navigating retreats during the pandemic. W...
May 06, 2024•56 min•Season 2Ep. 60
Join Giana and Bradshaw for a heartfelt and candid conversation about navigating life's storms while teaching yoga. They explore the importance of taking time off and finding balance upon returning to work, all while maintaining space for others. From grappling with grief to facing personal battles with heartbreak, loss, and health challenges, they acknowledge the common hurdles encountered by yoga instructors, sharing their own experiences along the way. Delving into themes of vulnerability, tr...
Apr 29, 2024•56 min•Season 2Ep. 59
Tune in to our monthly bonus episode where we start with some playful banter about "The Sopranos" and the quirks of waking up on the wrong side of the bed. Then, we dive straight into answering your most burning yoga questions! From our top cues for refreshing your Triangle Pose to practical tips for breaking free from a rut, we've got you covered. Plus, for yoga teachers thinking about relocating, we share valuable advice on making a smooth transition to a new state. This episode offers a perfe...
Apr 25, 2024•31 min
In this episode, Giana and Bradshaw announce the launch of their 300-hour yoga teacher training program! They discuss the purpose of the 300-hour format, which is designed for yoga teachers looking to deepen their knowledge and skills after completing their 200-hour certification. They highlight when to consider pursuing further education, how to know if you’re ready, and they emphasize some of the many benefits that include reducing burnout by reigniting passion and enthusiasm for teaching. The...
Apr 22, 2024•31 min•Season 2Ep. 58
Join hosts Bradshaw and Giana for a spirited conversation with the delightful Aliki, known as Aliki Comedy on Instagram. Bonding over their shared affinity for Chicago, Aliki shares her captivating journey from discovering yoga in college to honing her comedic skills at Second City. She regales with a hilarious yoga-related tale of meeting her husband and offers insights into her creative content process. The trio navigates the fine line between satire and humor, and Aliki reveals how she infuse...
Apr 15, 2024•55 min•Season 2Ep. 57
Join Giana and Bradshaw in this sequencing-focused episode as they delve into the art of yoga pose progressions! They discuss how to determine the demands of a yoga posture on the body and share insights on intelligently leading students into that shape. Whether you're a teacher or a student, this episode offers valuable tips to enhance your practice. Highlights : Understanding Posture Demands : Learn to analyze a yoga posture's requirements for a clearer approach. Intelligent Sequencing : Disco...
Apr 08, 2024•37 min•Season 2Ep. 56
In this episode, Giana and Bradshaw dive into the essential qualities to seek in a yoga teacher. Drawing from their personal experiences, they candidly discuss the attributes that resonate with them the most. From teaching style and philosophy to personal connection and authenticity, they share their favorite qualities that elevate a yoga class from good to transformative. Both Giana and Bradshaw open up about their quests to find a local yoga teacher and they highlight the importance of practic...
Apr 01, 2024•32 min•Season 2Ep. 55
Get ready for a laughter-packed bonus episode where we dive into YOUR burning questions! This week we tackle some hilarious inquiries from our amazing listeners, such as why Bradshaw teaches vinyasa rather than hatha, what to do when students look around the room during practice, or whether or not yoga teachers should be paid for staff meetings. Prepare to be entertained and educated as we share insightful answers with a touch of humor. Plus, here's your chance to shine - become a part of our sh...
Mar 28, 2024•29 min
In this special episode of The Funny Thing About Yoga , we journey across the pond to connect with the charismatic and insightful British yoga teacher, Adam Husler. As we delve into the world of yoga, we discover surprising parallels and shared experiences, leading to moments of laughter and genuine connection. From discussions about the nuances of social media and going viral to the vibrant yoga culture in London, the significance of mentorship, the occasional forgetfulness of names, and yes, e...
Mar 25, 2024•54 min•Season 2Ep. 54
In this episode, Giana and Bradshaw delve into the Crow Pose family, also referred to as Bakasana or Kakkasana. They kick off with a friendly debate about the pose's name and any associated confusion. Then, they explore the foundational pose for Crow, Chaturanga, discussing why Crow serves as an excellent introduction to arm balances and acts as a gateway to other low-flying variations. The hosts also share their teaching experiences, offering insights into providing variations tailored to diffe...
Mar 18, 2024•46 min•Season 2Ep. 53
Join hosts Giana and Bradshaw as they sit down with Veronica Rottman, a seasoned yoga teacher, business owner, and somatic experiencing practitioner, in this captivating episode. Veronica shares her remarkable journey from prenatal yoga enthusiast to facilitating somatic healing sessions, offering unique insights into the integration of somatics into yoga practice. Delving into the intricate relationship between the nervous system and the body, they discuss how somatic practices can profoundly i...
Mar 11, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Season 2Ep. 52
