The Yoga Teacher Podcast

What happens when you are the teacher… but still feel like an outsider in your own practice? In Part 2 of this conversation, Ula and Brea get even more real. From being injured students in rigid classes, to struggling with the pressure to look a certain way on Instagram, this is a no-filter conversation on the systems, expectations, and social media traps that shape modern yoga. We talk about: Why being a flexible, able-bodied white woman shouldn’t be a yoga marketing strategy The myth of the “perfect teacher” and the yoga voice we all faked at some point How social media algorithms can undermine empathy and authenticity Why building inclusive, values-led yoga spaces matters now more than ever The burnout of the weekly class grind—and how to build a sustainable teaching path 🎧 If you’ve ever felt like you weren’t “yogi” enough, or that something in modern yoga just feels… off—you’re not alone. And you’re not wrong to question it. 💡 Want to build a teaching life that’s aligned with your values—not the algorithm? Learn more about our Inspire Mentorship and our 200hr / 300hr Teacher Training: Yoga Teacher Mentorship Program with Brea Heart + Bones Yoga Teacher Training (200hr / 300hr) PRACTICE WITH HEART + BONES Enjoy an entire month in the Heart + Bones online yoga studio for just $1 with this coupon code: PODCASTMONTH Start Here

If you’ve ever taught a class and thought, “What am I even doing?” — you’re not alone. In our first episode together, Ula and Brea share their real, raw, and often hilarious stories from their early days of teaching yoga. From bringing a notebook to class to being completely unprepared for students with injuries, we’ve been there. This is the behind-the-scenes mentorship talk we wish we had when we started. We also explore how yoga in the West often misses the deeper teachings—and what it really means to create an inclusive class, one that supports all bodies, not just the flexible few. 👉 If you’re a new teacher, a seasoned one rethinking your approach, or just yoga-curious, you’ll feel seen in this one. 💡 Want support becoming the kind of teacher you want to be? Check out our Inspire Mentorship and our 200hr / 300hr Yoga Teacher Trainings: Yoga Teacher Mentorship Program with Brea Yoga Teacher Training with Brea and Heart and Bones Yoga PRACTICE WITH HEART + BONES Enjoy an entire month in the Heart + Bones online yoga studio for just $1 with this coupon code: PODCASTMONTH Start Here

In your teacher training you learn so many different aspects of yoga but rarely do we talk about the things that actually make a good yoga teacher. This informative lesson will share the five most important aspects of being an effective and confident yoga teacher. You won't learn this in (most) teacher trainings and quite often will learn it the hard way so I'm here to give you a shortcut and help you be the best teacher you can be! Looking for weekly inspiration and deeper yoga + movement knowledge? Whether you are a yoga teacher or student, Brea’s email is written to help you learn, grow, and connect with community: https://heartandbonesyoga.outgrow.us/General_list_Sign-Up STUDY WITH HEART + BONES 🎓 200/300 Hour Online Teacher Training: https://www.heartandbonesyoga.com/courses/modern-yogi-certification-course/ 10 Hour Online Applied Anatomy for Yoga: https://www.heartandbonesyoga.com/courses/essential-course-curious-people/ Want to watch the video? Find Brea on YouTube: https://youtu.be/PCuziHlrXAU?si=e_n_wDzsyasP3JDV

In this episode of the Yoga Teacher Hotline, Brea answers three submitted questions from yoga instructors: Handling Students Who Deviate in Class: What should you do when a student consistently does their own thing during your class? Responding to Medical and Health Inquiries: How can you address situations when students seek medical or health advice beyond your training? Using Anatomical Language Confidently: How can you incorporate anatomical terms in your teaching without feeling unsure or distancing your students? ☎️ Submit your questions for Brea here : https://heartandbonesyoga.outgrow.us/yogateacherhotline STUDY WITH HEART + BONES 🎓 200/300 Hour Online Teacher Training: https://www.heartandbonesyoga.com/courses/modern-yogi-certification-course/ 📕 10 Hour Online Applied Anatomy for Yoga: https://www.heartandbonesyoga.com/courses/essential-course-curious-people/ PRACTICE WITH HEART + BONES Want to try out the online yoga studio? Get 1-month for $1 by using this coupon code: PODCASTMONTH Start Here: https://www.heartandbonesyoga.com/membership/ Say hi on social and follow for more tips and tutorials: Instagram https://www.instagram.com/heartandbonesyoga/ https://www.tiktok.com/@heartandbonesyoga TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@heartandbonesyoga

What if strength training could revolutionize not just your fitness, but your entire approach to health and well-being? In this episode of the Heart and Bones podcast, Brea Johnson sits down with Sarah Court, a physical therapist, and Laurel Beversdorf, a yoga teacher and personal trainer, to explore the transformative power of building strength and lifting weights.  What We Discuss: Strength training is essential for physical health and well-being. The power of being strong- challenge societal norms and stereotypes around strength training and embrace power and strength. Integrating strength training with other movement practices, such as yoga, can create a well-rounded fitness routine. Cultural conditioning often discourages women from lifting heavy weights, but it is important to prioritize physical health and well-being. Strength training can increase bone density and muscle mass, leading to improved overall health and fitness. Find a coach or join a strength training program that focuses on progressive overload Strength training is subjective, and what is heavy for one person may be different for another Focus on your own progress and don't compare yourself to others Strength training can increase confidence, improve body function, and empower you Strength training can be fun, joyful, and inclusive, and it doesn't have to conform to traditional stereotypes CONNECT WITH SARAH AND LAUREL Website: https://movementlogictutorials.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/movementlogictutorials/   PRACTICE WITH HEART + BONES Enjoy an entire month in the Heart + Bones online yoga studio for just $1 with this coupon code: PODCASTMONTH Start Here: https://www.heartandbonesyoga.com/membership/ About Laurel Beversdorf Laurel Beversdorf, YACEP, E-RYT 500, is an international yoga educator and kettlebell specialist with an advanced certification from Living.Fit. Laurel is the creator of Yoga with Resistance Bands classes and trainings, Resistance Bands 101 with Yoga Journal, and Body of Knowledge anatomy and biomechanics workshops. She co-creates movement therapy tutorials with physical therapists and Pilates teachers for Movement Logic®. Laurel also hosts weekly kettlebell and yoga classes in her virtual studio and has presented live yoga trainings and workshops at locations like Kripalu, YogaWorks, and studios all over the world. Her classes are multidisciplinary and blend strength training, rehabilitation practices, self-massage, and yoga. Laurel has written for Yoga Journal, Shut Up & Yoga, and the Tune Up Fitness blog. A Wisconsin native, she lives in NYC with her husband, daughter, and two cats. About Dr. Sarah Court Dr. Sarah Court is a Doctor of Physical Therapy, and provides in person and online sessions that blend her decades of yoga, Pilates, and physical therapy experience. She's a co-founder of Movement Logic®, a series of continuing education tutorials that help movement teachers understand how to work with challenging clients while staying within their scope of practice. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2021, and after her experience with surgery and chemotherapy, she created a FREE online video exercise series for people going through, or recovering from cancer treatment, that progresses from simple yoga to lifting weights. Sarah lives in Los Angeles, and you can find her at sarahcourtdpt.com or on Instagram at @sarahcourtdpt. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Pronunciation 03:16 Introduction to Movement Logic 05:00 Sarah's Background and Approach 08:13 Empowering Women through Strength Training 16:37 The Limitations of Yoga Asana 20:59 The Importance of Strength Training for Women's Health 23:23 Addressing Bone Density and Muscle Loss 25:18 Reclaiming Power and Breaking Free from Conditioning 34:02 Increasing Tolerance and Resisting Binary Thinking 38:12 How to Incorporate Strength Training into Your Routine 41:05 The Importance of Coaching and Outside Help 45:32 Understanding Progressive Overload 49:21 The Pitfalls of Variety and the Need for Consistency 53:04 Redefining 'Heavy' and the Subjectivity of Strength 58:01 Strength Training as a Fun and Empowering Experience 01:03:09 Favourite Lifts: Calf Raises and Overhead Press 01:06:06 The Power of Positive Self-Talk and Inner Cheerleading 01:09:51 Inspiring Others and Celebrating Strength

What if strength training could transform not just your body, but your entire approach to life? Dr. Marcia, a physical therapist and powerlifting strong woman, shares her empowering journey on the Heart and Bones podcast. She challenges conventional views on fitness, revealing how strength training benefits everyone, including those with chronic illness and disabilities. Dr. Marcia redefines strength training beyond traditional weightlifting, emphasizing that it can take many forms—from resistance bands to bodyweight exercises. "Strength training can mean anything... It's about what challenges you and helps you grow," she says. She also addresses common fears, like the myth of getting bulky, and highlights the functional benefits that enhance everyday life. Marcia and Brea Johnson discuss the critical role of self-awareness and intuition in navigating fitness and healthcare. They encourage listeners to question societal narratives and prioritize their well-being. "Anyone you see for your health is being invited to share your journey. You have the right to ask questions and make decisions that feel right for you," Dr. Marcia emphasizes. This conversation is a call to embrace your unique fitness journey, break free from limiting beliefs, and find strength in your own way. About Dr. Marcia Darbouze Dr. Marcia (she/they) is a doctor of physical therapy, Black spoonie, and powerlifting strongwoman. She is the owner of @MovewithMarcia which provides both free and affordable resources to help people move better through mobility exercises and yoga. Marcia also co-hosts the @DisabledGirlsWhoLift podcast. Find their links and more at DoctorMarcia.com. PRACTICE WITH DR. MARCIA AT HEART + BONES Enjoy an entire month in the Heart + Bones online yoga studio for just $1 with this coupon code: PODCASTMONTH Start Here: https://www.heartandbonesyoga.com/membership/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:03 Dr. Marcia's Background and Experience 05:08 Dr. Marcia's Personal Experience with Strength Training 09:00 Managing Strength Training with Chronic Illness and Disability 13:30 Understanding Spoon Theory 18:22 The Importance of Strength Training in Physical Therapy 26:57 Resistance to Strength Training and Cultural Narratives 29:54 Setting the Vibe: The Importance of Strength Training and Movement 31:45 Challenging Societal Narratives and Limitations in Fitness 32:24 Recognizing the Physical Demands of Everyday Life 35:11 Navigating the Influence of Capitalism and Social Systems 36:05 Embracing Individualized Approaches to Fitness 37:30 Prioritizing Well-being and Autonomy in Movement and Fitness  

Jules Mitchell, a leading expert in yoga biomechanics, dives into how yoga can enhance strength and flexibility unlike any traditional approach. She emphasizes the crucial role of the nervous system in strength development, revealing that strength is more than muscle size; it's about coordination. Jules discusses the unique relationship between yoga and strength training, encouraging practitioners to embrace yoga's diversity. She also critiques the one-size-fits-all approach in wellness, advocating for a more inclusive and understanding practice.

Tejal Patel, a first-generation Indian American yoga teacher, writer, and community organizer, shares her transformative views on strength through yoga. She emphasizes that true strength encompasses mental and emotional resilience, not just physical capability. Tejal discusses the importance of reclaiming yoga's authentic roots and advocates for inclusivity and trauma-informed practices. Listeners gain insights on integrating deep yoga philosophy into daily life, exploring 'soft strength,' and the power of restorative practices for personal and social growth.

Strength is essential for handling life's challenges, especially as we age. In this episode, Brea Johnson chats with Amanda Ford, a strength and conditioning coach known as Movement Muse, about the importance of building strength and functionality. Amanda shares her journey from discovering her love for movement as a child to becoming a strength coach who focuses on helping those over 40. She highlights the necessity of self-directed movement practices and debunks common misconceptions about strength training. Amanda explains that strength training is crucial for maintaining muscle mass and mobility, allowing us to confidently face life's adventures. She emphasizes starting with simple, accessible moves like squats and hinges for the lower body and pushing and pulling exercises for the upper body. Amanda's approach is about meeting yourself where you are and progressing at your own pace. The conversation is filled with inspiring stories of clients who have regained their strength and improved their quality of life, demonstrating that it's never too late to start strength training. Whether you're lifting a 10-pound dumbbell or just beginning with bodyweight exercises, any effort to improve strength is significantly better than none. Join Amanda and Brea as they explore how strength training can enhance your life at any age. About Amanda Ford Amanda Ford (She/Her) is a strength coach, movement and yoga teacher based in Seattle. She's also a poet, artist and all-around amazing human being. Not to mention the best style when it comes to workout clothes. Amanda is a favourite teacher here in the online studio with her smart approach to functional strength training. Website: https://movementmuse.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/movement.muse/?hl=en PRACTICE WITH HEART + BONES Enjoy an entire month in the Heart + Bones online yoga studio for just $1 with this coupon code: PODCASTMONTH Start Here: https://www.heartandbonesyoga.com/membership/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Strength Training and Amanda Ford 08:07 Amanda's Personal Journey with Movement 19:27 Starting Small: Incorporating Strength Training into Your Routine 21:10 Addressing Misconceptions about Strength Training 25:13 Tailoring Strength Training to Individual Needs 27:03 Focus on Movement Patterns 27:52 Training Upper and Lower Body 29:26 The Body's Ability to Adapt 35:54 Any Effort is Significant 41:25 More is Not Better 45:31 Strength Training as a Non-Negotiable

Summary Rest is not just a trendy self-care product that you can purchase. Lou Thomas (they/them), the guest of this episode, defines radical rest as an interruption to systems of violence. Join Brea Johnson in conversation with Lou, a queer, neurodivergent, non-binary yoga teacher and embodiment specialist, as they discuss the transformative concept of radical rest. They explore how rest goes beyond mere sleep to become a form of resistance against systemic violence and a crucial self-care practice. They emphasize the need to identify and challenge the societal systems that impact our well-being, advocating for restorative practices tailored to individual needs. About Lou Thomas Lou Thomas is a dedicated yoga teacher and embodiment specialist based in Brighton, UK. Their work is deeply rooted in accessibility, trauma-informed approaches, and intersectional anti-oppression, focusing on empowering the LGBTQIA+ community. Lou's classes and workshops are designed to be accessible and playful, providing a safe space for individuals to explore their bodies and identities in a supportive environment. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bodybitsbrighton/?hl=en Website: https://www.bodybitsbrighton.com/ If you're inspired by this conversation and looking to deepen your practice of radical rest, you can find Lou teaching classes at Heart + Bones Online yoga school, including a 60-minute radical rest class. Start a studio trial: https://www.heartandbonesyoga.com/membership/ More Sleep Resources: If you're looking for support and consistency to help improve your sleep and stress levels, The Better Sleep Program is FREE as a member of Heart + Bones Online. Explore the program and start your free trial to here: https://www.heartandbonesyoga.com/better-sleep-program/ Strength goes beyond the physical in yoga, encompassing mental, emotional, and spiritual dimensions. In this episode, Brea Johnson chats with Tejal Patel, a first-generation Indian American yoga teacher, writer, podcaster, and community organizer, about redefining strength through yoga. Tejal shares her insights on how yoga's deeper teachings can help us cultivate inner strength, resilience, and holistic well-being. Tejal explains that true strength in yoga is not just about physical prowess but about handling life’s challenges with grace and compassion. They discuss the cultural influences on modern yoga practices in the West and the importance of reclaiming yoga's authentic roots. Tejal highlights the need for inclusivity and the value of trauma-informed and decolonized yoga practices. The conversation is filled with powerful reflections on how to integrate yoga philosophy into daily life and the significance of inner experience over external appearance. Tejal offers practical tips for those looking to deepen their yoga practice, emphasizing the importance of restorative yoga and studying foundational texts like the Yoga Sutras. About Tejal Patel Tejal Patel (She/They) is a first-generation Indian American yoga teacher, writer, podcaster, and community organizer. She advocates for holistic yoga through a social justice lens, aiming to educate and activate students for collective action. Tejal is the founder of Tejal Yoga Studio, a South Asian teacher-led community focused on social justice and authentic spiritual practices. She's also a co-host of the Yoga is Dead podcast, known for sparking critical conversations about wellness, power, and privilege. Tejal’s insightful teachings and compassionate approach make her a favourite in our online studio. Website: www.tejalyoga.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tejalyoga PRACTICE WITH HEART + BONES Enjoy an entire month in the Heart + Bones online yoga studio for just $1 with this coupon code: PODCASTMONTH Start Here Follow Brea on Instagram for tips and inspiration. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Overview 02:47 The Philosophy of Radical Rest 09:14 Implementing Restorative Practices 36:05 Conclusion and Continuing the Conversation Stay connected with Lou's journey and continuous advocacy for radical rest and social change through their Instagram and website. Start a studio trial with Heart and Bones Yoga. Follow Brea on Instagram for tips and inspiration.