Yoga Teacher Resource Podcast

Mado Hesselink
  • 4.9 (238)
  • BUSINESS
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

Information, support, and inspiration for yoga teachers. Topics include the business of yoga, teaching skills, philosophy, ethical and legal considerations, and more.

  1. Alignment and Functional Movement with Dr. Ariele Foster

    FEB 12

    Alignment and Functional Movement with Dr. Ariele Foster

    Basic misunderstandings about the human body can lead to yoga cues that have the opposite effect from what the teacher intended. In this episode, physical therapist and longtime yoga educator Dr. Ariele Foster breaks down why rigid alignment cues often fail our biology. Listen in to hear a nuanced discussion of the role of alignment in asana and how to bring more functional movement into your yoga classes. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: 01:11 Meet Dr. Ariele Foster: From yoga enthusiast to physical therapist 11:08 Reconsidering the role of alignment 15:18 How alignment can either increase or decrease your options for movement. 22:58 How alignment can feed into kinesophobia 30:05 Functional movement vs. specialized movement 42:58 How to weave more functional movement into your classes 46:36 Conclusion and further resources EPISODE LINKS & RESOURCES: Yoga Anatomy Academy Yoga for 3D Hip Stability Course Follow Yoga Anatomy Academy on Instagram @yogaanatomyacademy Follow Yoga Anatomy Academy on Facebook Wellilo Physical Therapy and Yoga Follow Dr. Ariele Foster on Instagram @dr.ariele.foster Follow Dr. Ariele Foster: Wellilo Physical Therapy + Yoga on Facebook Here is a webinar on how to avoid injury that Dr. Ariele Foster would like to share with listeners.   LINKS AND RESOURCES: Follow YTR on Instagram @yoga.teacher.resource  Join the Yoga Teacher Resource email list Join the Yoga Teacher Resource Facebook Group Learn more about the Impact Club Leave a review on iTunes Ask a question for the podcast on the Yoga Teacher Resource website or on SpeakPip

    48 min

  2. JAN 29

    Be Less Cringey on Camera with Henrica Vanderaa [On-Air Coaching Call]

    If you feel super awkward as soon as the camera starts rolling, you’ll be able to relate to this on-air coaching call. Henrica shares her challenges in producing on-demand yoga videos that she feels are good enough to release to her students. Listen in for my advice on how to get started with creating and editing yoga videos when you’re struggling with perfectionism.  EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: 00:41 From Corporate Life to Teaching Yoga in Multiple Languages 05:22 The Challenges of Creating an On-Demand Video Library 07:25 Technical Struggles and Solutions for Video Production 11:58 Bad Recordings and Failing Forward 15:09 The Pros and Cons of Recording Live Classes 18:30 Strategies for Using Video to Boost Retreat Registrations 28:48 The difference between good and perfect (this distinction is key for recovering perfectionists!) EPISODE LINKS & RESOURCES: Henrica Yoga Algarve Follow Henrica on Facebook   LINKS AND RESOURCES: Follow YTR on Instagram @yoga.teacher.resource  Join the Yoga Teacher Resource email list Join the Yoga Teacher Resource Facebook Group Learn more about the Impact Club Leave a review on iTunes Ask a question for the podcast on the Yoga Teacher Resource website or on SpeakPipe

    38 min
  3. Yoga, Longevity, and a Balanced Movement Diet with Dr Libby Hinsley

    JAN 15

    Yoga, Longevity, and a Balanced Movement Diet with Dr Libby Hinsley

    Yoga is a powerful tool, but it isn’t a complete physical solution. In this episode, physical therapist and yoga teacher Dr. Libby Hinsley introduces the concept of a "movement diet" as a framework for long-term physical sustainability and longevity. Over-relying on asana means missing out on essential movement "nutrients." Learn about the ‘macro-nutrients’ of the movement world, including where yoga shines and where it is limited. We share personal stories and practical advice for yoga-lovers who want to transition from a yoga-centric routine to a more comprehensive ‘diet’. Listen in for a clear-eyed look at what it takes to support your body for the long haul. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: 01:07 The myth of yoga as a complete exercise 05:43 Yoga's role in a balanced movement diet 09:30 Strength, cardio, and mobility: The macronutrients 13:21 How much strength do we build when we practice yoga asana 21:38 Where we are now & our personal movement diet through the years 28:47 Tips for getting started with strength and cardio 36:32 Final thoughts and resources EPISODE LINKS & RESOURCES: Libby Hinsley Bendy & Badass Follow Libby Hinsley on Instagram @libbyhinsleypt Follow Libby Hinsley on Facebook LINKS AND RESOURCES: Follow YTR on Instagram @yoga.teacher.resource  Join the Yoga Teacher Resource email list Join the Yoga Teacher Resource Facebook Group Learn more about the Impact Club Leave a review on iTunes Ask a question for the podcast on the Yoga Teacher Resource website or on SpeakPipe

    39 min

  4. JAN 1

    Pricing and Financial Sustainability with Lorine Bamberg [On Air Coaching Call]

    Can you honor the roots of yoga and still pay the bills? Join me for an on-air coaching call with yoga teacher Lorine Bamberg as we explore the intersection of spirituality and commerce. Lorine is committed to embodying yoga’s ethics but faces the very real challenge of protecting her own financial health. Together, we look at the evolving responsibilities of the modern teacher, from navigating fair pricing to balancing service with self-preservation. We also explore the complex role of social justice in practice: determining when to speak up and how to hold space for global issues with integrity. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: 01:13 Lorine’s story: From gym rat to yoga mat 04:35 What it really takes to teach yoga full-time 07:04 Navigating the ethics of pricing and the tension between service and profit 21:40 Balancing leadership with humility as a teacher 24:23 When and how to address social issues in class 35:29 Yoga as a practice to reclaim agency EPISODE LINKS & RESOURCES: Swaying Tree Yoga Follow Lorine on Instagram @swayingtreeyoga Follow Lorine on Facebook LINKS AND RESOURCES: Follow YTR on Instagram @yoga.teacher.resource  Join the Yoga Teacher Resource email list Join the Yoga Teacher Resource Facebook Group Learn more about the Impact Club Leave a review on iTunes Ask a question for the podcast on the Yoga Teacher Resource website or on SpeakPipe

    37 min

  5. 12/18/2025

    Advanced Asana Part 2: Aesthetics, Access, and the Algorithm with Lily Dwyer Begg

    What happens when algorithms influence the public perception of yoga? Social media algorithms distort the public view of yoga and exacerbate a disconnect between yoga teachers and the people we aim to serve. In this candid discussion, Lily and I explore the challenges of teaching and practicing in the digital age. We question the viability of the "all levels" class and discuss the profound missed opportunities when yoga is 'sanitized' and divorced from the messy reality of life. Tune in for our perspective on how to use asana as a tool for cultivating deep self-understanding and agency. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: 01:45 How social media platforms prioritize and amplify sexualized content 05:05 Why this type of content might be contributing to a decline in yoga class attendance 09:14 How the complex reality of a yoga practice is more beneficial than the sanitized version presented in the media and online 10:24 An honest look at whether a single group class can truly serve “all levels” 14:14 Options and free space as tools for accessibility 22:51 Why home practice is a crucial space for genuine learning and self-acceptance 26:13 How over-accommodating students based on assumptions can undermine their agency and stunt their growth 31:03 Yoga class as an immersive experience vs a structured place to learn 33:22 Advanced asana practice as a self-aware relationship with your body  EPISODE LINKS & RESOURCES: Lily Dwyer Begg Yoga Follow Lily on Instagram @lilydwyerbegg Follow Lily Dwyer Begg Yoga on Facebook   LINKS AND RESOURCES: Follow YTR on Instagram @yoga.teacher.resource  Join the Yoga Teacher Resource email list Join the Yoga Teacher Resource Facebook Group Learn more about the Impact Club Leave a review on iTunes Ask a question for the podcast on the Yoga Teacher Resource website or on SpeakPipe

    35 min

  6. 12/04/2025

    Advanced Asana Part 1: What's the Point? with Lily Dwyer Begg

    Most people view "advanced asana" as a flashy, performance-based practice driven by natural talent and aesthetics. This common misconception can lead people to dismiss asana as just preparation for real yoga or treat it as a casual activity that everyone can do equally. In this episode, we explore what it means to advance as an asana practitioner and the benefits of a consistent and systematic approach. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: 02:15 Defining Advanced Asana 08:33 Challenge vs. Intensity in Practice 16:22 The Role of Asana in a Sedentary Culture 19:50 Why Basic Postures can be Harder than Advanced Postures 26:27 Do Mirrors and Cameras Have a Place in Asana Practice? 32:11 The Role of Home Practice and Opportunities Online EPISODE LINKS & RESOURCES: Lily Dwyer Begg Yoga Follow Lily on Instagram @lilydwyerbegg Follow Lily Dwyer Begg Yoga on Facebook LINKS AND RESOURCES: Follow YTR on Instagram @yoga.teacher.resource  Join the Yoga Teacher Resource email list Join the Yoga Teacher Resource Facebook Group Learn more about the Impact Club Leave a review on iTunes Ask a question for the podcast on the Yoga Teacher Resource website or on SpeakPipe

    35 min
  7. Teaching and Demonstrating with Physical Limitations with Holly Williams [On Air Coaching Call]

    11/20/2025

    Teaching and Demonstrating with Physical Limitations with Holly Williams [On Air Coaching Call]

    Holly is a yoga teacher with physical limitations who has concerns about balancing her physical abilities with the needs of her students. Many of her students rely heavily on visual cues and she wonders whether she’s doing them a disservice by not being able to demonstrate everything she teaches. In this candid conversation, we explore the role of demonstration in yoga, the value of teaching with limitations, and the unspoken power dynamics between teachers and students.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: 01:01 Holly's story of finding yoga and becoming a teacher 03:49 Specific physical limitations and how they impact students. 05:20 The balance of giving student students what they want vs what they need 08:44 Student agency - who chooses whom? 12:22 Vulnerability as a superpower 16:11 Students who refuse to modify or use props 21:08 Navigating studio expectations 30:03 Final thoughts and the need for representation in yoga classes   EPISODE LINKS & RESOURCES: Holly Williams   LINKS AND RESOURCES: Follow YTR on Instagram @yoga.teacher.resource  Join the Yoga Teacher Resource email list Join the Yoga Teacher Resource Facebook Group Learn more about the Impact Club Leave a review on iTunes Ask a question for the podcast on the Yoga Teacher Resource website or on SpeakPipe

    32 min

  8. 10/23/2025

    Build a Resilient Business with Big Picture Thinking

    Yoga teachers tend to find their way to teaching through passion - and that’s a beautiful thing. But passion can only take you so far: without strategy, the work you love can quickly become a hamster wheel that spins faster every year. In this episode, learn how to harness rituals and routines to bring more strategy to your business. We'll explore simple planning rituals to help you align your day-to-day actions with your values and goals.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: 00:38 Why Big Picture Thinking is Not Intuitive 06:24 Daily Big Picture Thinking Rituals 07:57 Weekly Big Picture Thinking Rituals 14:44 Quarterly Big Picture Thinking Rituals 17:48 Yearly Big Picture Thinking Rituals 20:55 How The Rituals Overlap & Inform Each Other   LINKS AND RESOURCES: Follow YTR on Instagram @yoga.teacher.resource  Join the Yoga Teacher Resource email list Join the Yoga Teacher Resource Facebook Group Learn more about the Impact Club Leave a review on iTunes Ask a question for the podcast on the Yoga Teacher Resource website or on SpeakPipe

    23 min
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4.9
out of 5
238 Ratings

About

Information, support, and inspiration for yoga teachers. Topics include the business of yoga, teaching skills, philosophy, ethical and legal considerations, and more.

Information

  • Creator
    Mado Hesselink
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    314
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2022 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Yoga Teacher Resource Podcast

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