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Working in Yoga

Working in Yoga

By: Rebecca Sebastian
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Join yoga studio owner, yoga teacher, yoga therapist, and yoga non-profit founder Rebecca Sebastian for a water cooler discussion of what it is to work in the yoga world.

We will talk about our experiences, good & bad, connect with each other, share tips freely, and tell our stories.

Many years ago a yoga-teacher friend of mine said to me “the one things I don’t like about being a yoga teacher is there’s no water cooler”. And he was right. (thanks James).

So let’s use this podcast as our water cooler. This past year, especially, has been so hard for us. Let’s talk about it. Share our stories, our unique jobs, and a sense of community that we all need.

Want in? Take a listen.

Copyright Sunlight Yoga Center, 2019
Alternative & Complementary Medicine Career Success Economics Hygiene & Healthy Living Social Sciences
Episodes
  • “What Makes Us Creative Royalty? A Learning Conversation with Cheri Dostal Ryba”
    Oct 30 2025

    What does it mean to be creative royalty? In this episode, Rebecca and Cheri Dostal Ryba explore how yoga professionals can tap into curiosity, move past fear, and stay grounded through the ups and downs of creative work. Whether you’re building a yoga business, creating new classes, or just trying to feel brave enough to share your ideas, this episode reminds you that you don’t have to be perfect to create something powerful.

    🧘‍♀️ Key Takeaways

    1️⃣ Curiosity starts the creative process.
    Creativity doesn’t just appear — it begins with curiosity. Ask questions, stay open, and allow yourself to explore without knowing the outcome. In yoga and business, curiosity is the spark that leads to inspired work.

    2️⃣ Fear is not the boss of your art.
    Fear blocks creativity more than anything else. Remember Seth Godin’s wisdom: art is anything creative, passionate, and personal. Whether you’re designing a new class, writing, or building a business, don’t wait until you feel fearless—create anyway.

    3️⃣ You are not your output.
    It’s easy to tie our self-worth to how our work is received. But your value doesn’t depend on class sign-ups or Instagram engagement. Detach your identity from outcomes; each iteration teaches you something vital about your creative and professional growth.

    4️⃣ Iteration = evolution.
    Refining and adjusting your ideas over time is what makes your teaching and business sustainable. Small tweaks can bring your creative vision closer to what your audience truly needs while staying true to your authentic expression.

    5️⃣ Creativity is relational.
    The best ideas grow from both introspection and connection. Tune inward to discover your inspiration, then share outward with your community. Yoga is, after all, a practice of union — creativity works the same way.

    RESOURCES

    Working In Yoga Website

    Working In Yoga Newsletter

    Podcast Shop

    Download the Discussion Guide!

    Cheri’s Website

    SATISFY Retreat

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    1 hr and 7 mins
  • The Creative CEO: Coaching, AI, and Letting Go of Shame with Bridget Regan
    Oct 23 2025

    Running a yoga business isn’t all incense and inspiration—sometimes it’s spreadsheets, stress, and shame spirals. In this episode, we dive into what it really takes to lead creatively. From finding the right coach to using AI without guilt, you’ll learn how to free up your mental space, ditch the “I should know better” stories, and reconnect to the spark that made you love this work in the first place.

    🧘‍♀️ Key Takeaways

    1️⃣ Coaching fuels creativity.
    Stepping outside the day-to-day hustle with the support of a coach can reignite your creative energy and help you see your yoga business from a fresh perspective. The right coaching relationship can shift you from reactive problem-solving to intentional, inspired leadership.

    2️⃣ Problem-solving is a creative practice.
    Just like teaching yoga, creativity in business comes from perspective. Move beyond putting out fires and start zooming out to see patterns, possibilities, and new approaches. The most successful yoga entrepreneurs think like creative problem-solvers—balancing micro, macro, and visionary views.

    3️⃣ Release shame to unlock flow.
    Shame is one of the biggest creativity blockers for yoga teachers and studio owners. Acknowledge it, feel it, and then let it move through you. Freedom and lightness—hallmarks of creativity—only come when we stop holding ourselves hostage to “getting it right.”

    4️⃣ AI isn’t cheating—it’s a tool.
    When used with intention, AI can act as your creative assistant. From brainstorming class ideas to managing admin tasks, this tech can support your vision so you can stay focused on your purpose and your students.

    RESOURCES

    Working In Yoga Website

    Working In Yoga Newsletter

    Podcast Shop

    Download the Discussion Guide!

    Offering Tree’s Discount For Listeners

    Offering Tree’s Studio Success Checklist

    Bridget’s Website

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    56 mins
  • Taking Inspiration from All These Things I’ve Done: Creativity, Tension, and Teaching Yoga Authentically w/ Julia Andreini
    Oct 16 2025

    Ever feel the tug between tradition and innovation in your teaching? In this episode, we get real about creative tension, versatility, and the art of making your yoga practice your own. We’re talking curated inspiration, themed classes, and the power of choosing creativity—on and off the mat.

    KEY TAKEAWAYS:

    Creative tension is real — and necessary. Balancing yoga’s roots with personal expression isn’t easy. Honoring lineage, serving your students, and staying true to your creative self can coexist—but not without a little healthy friction.

    Versatility feeds inspiration. Whether it’s teaching different styles, exploring new students, or shifting focus, creative growth often lives outside our comfort zone.

    Style and emphasis shape your teaching voice. Every teacher brings something unique to

    familiar sequences. Instead of “happy accidents,” make your personal style a conscious part of your class design.

    Curate your inspiration. Be intentional about where you draw creative energy—online or off. Cook, read, move, explore art—whatever fuels your imagination will fuel your teaching.

    Themes give form to freedom. Teaching around an idea, like exploring discomfort vs. suffering, brings depth and cohesion to your work. Creative parameters can actually unlock greater play.

    Creativity is a practice, not an accident. You must choose creativity—schedule it, honor it, and make space for it in the middle of real life.

    RESOURCES

    Working In Yoga Website

    Working In Yoga Newsletter

    Podcast Shop

    Download the Discussion Guide!

    Julia’s IG

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    1 hr and 6 mins
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