The Youthful Older Yogi

MJ Waddell
  • 5.0 (4)
  • ALTERNATIVE HEALTH
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

Yogi Host and founder of SHARE YOGA, MJ Waddell, explores staying youthful in mind and body after 50. An E-RYT 500 yoga teacher, practitioner and educator for over 25 years, she advocates for movement, creativity and not missing the best years ahead. Real conversations with wellness pros and older yogis who still Down-Dog and dig it! Two episodes a month. Become a listener and supporter https://www.buzzsprout.com/2218834/supportWatch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theYOY50

  1. If You're Moving You're Winning

    FEB 21

    If You're Moving You're Winning

    Send a text and share your thoughts. We want to hear from you! What can the Olympics teach us about yoga, aging, and everyday resilience? In this episode of The Youthful Older Yogi, I reflect on watching the Games — from childhood memories of dreaming big in front of a grainy TV to witnessing the triumphs and heartbreaks of today’s athletes. Behind every podium moment is dedication, rebuilding, disappointment, courage, and the willingness to show up again. And that spirit? It’s not reserved for Olympians. It lives in you every time you: Roll out your matTake a walkRecover from injuryMove through griefBreathe with intentionTry againBecause if you’re moving… you’re winning. In this episode, I explore: What Olympic athletes teach us about resilience and long-term dedicationWhy some days won’t feel magical — and why that’s still practiceThe freedom of yoga: no judges, no timers, no performance reviewsHow to redefine “winning” after 50, 60, and beyondWhy showing up — even imperfectly — is the real gold medalYou don’t need a stadium.  You don’t need a podium.  You don’t need to be perfect. If you’re moving, you’re winning. 🌿 Stay Connected Visit www.shareyogawithmj.com and subscribe to my newsletter. With each edition, you’ll receive thoughtful reflections, encouragement for healthy aging, and a free guided meditation to support your practice. Let’s keep moving, Let’s keep breathing, And keep sharing yoga. Support the show Sign-up for my NEWSLETTER for upcoming episodes, and yoga with MJ Send a voicemail with your question or thought, it might be part of a future episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/Shareyogawithmj Find MJ Waddell at: WEBSITE https://shareyogawithmj.com FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=557038390 YOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/@TheYOY50 INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/maryjaynewaddell/ E-MAIL maryjaynewaddell@gmail.com Dan Jones-Editor Find Dan at: https://cocoabeachweb.com/

    16 min
  2. Strong Enough to Stay Independent

    FEB 7

    Strong Enough to Stay Independent

    Send a text and share your thoughts. We want to hear from you! In this episode, I explore the balance between strength and flexibility and why strength becomes increasingly important for maintaining mobility, balance, and confidence in everyday life as we get older. I share simple, accessible ways to build strength in key areas that support independence, including: Feet and ankles (for balance and gait)Legs and hips (for standing, sitting, and moving with ease)Core muscles (for posture, stability, and support)Hands, wrists, and arms (for grip strength and daily function)✨ This is one of those episodes you’ll get even more out of by watching on YouTube. At the end of the episode, I demonstrate several of the strength-based movements I talk about—so you can actually see how simple, doable, and adaptable they are for any age or body. These are easy-to-weave-into-your-life practices you can use in your own yoga practice, in your classes, or alongside any movement routine you already enjoy.  All practical strength that supports real life. Don't forget to: Subscribe so you don’t miss future episodesShare it with a friend, or loved one who wants to keep moving wellAnd share any thoughts with me Support the show Sign-up for my NEWSLETTER for upcoming episodes, and yoga with MJ Send a voicemail with your question or thought, it might be part of a future episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/Shareyogawithmj Find MJ Waddell at: WEBSITE https://shareyogawithmj.com FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=557038390 YOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/@TheYOY50 INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/maryjaynewaddell/ E-MAIL maryjaynewaddell@gmail.com Dan Jones-Editor Find Dan at: https://cocoabeachweb.com/

    35 min
  3. Menopause, Change and Learning to Listen

    JAN 24

    Menopause, Change and Learning to Listen

    Send a text and share your thoughts. We want to hear from you! In this episode of The Youthful Older Yogi, MJ is joined by Trish Wager for a real, honest conversation about navigating menopause—complete with unexpected twists, emotional whiplash, and moments where all you can do is laugh because… what else are you going to do? Trish generously shares her personal menopause journey—one that hasn’t been easy and is still ebbing and flowing—and reflects on what it feels like when even familiar supports, including yoga, don’t always help. Together, MJ and Trish talk about learning to listen to the body, the frustration of not being heard, and the importance of finding support from people who actually know what they’re talking about. This is not a fix-it episode. It’s a shared conversation—about change, trust, advocacy, and the strange reality of realizing your body has entered a new phase without asking for your input. Most of all, it’s a reminder that menopause looks different for every woman—and that you’re not navigating it alone. In This Episode, We Talk About: Menopause as the ultimate uninvited guestWhy so many women feel unprepared for what’s comingThe emotional and physical surprises no one warned us aboutWhat it’s like when even yoga doesn’t always help (yes, really)The frustration—and necessity—of finding knowledgeable, menopause-informed careWhy shared conversations matter more than “quick fixes”Mary Claire Haver MD https://thepauselife.com/ Kelly Caperson MD https://kellycaspersonmd.com/ About the Guest: Trish Wager is a yoga practitioner and teacher who brings honesty, warmth, and humor to conversations about menopause and women’s health. Her willingness to share her lived experience helps shine light on a transition that is too often whispered about—or ignored entirely. About the Host MJ Waddell, host of The Youthful Older Yogi podcast and founder of Share Yoga (shareyogawithmj.com), has been “digging Down Dog” for over 30 years and teaching yoga for over two decades.  MJ is far more interested in how yoga—and meditation—show up in everyday life, especially as we move into the later, richer chapters. At the heart of everything she shares is a belief that life isn’t winding down—it’s just starting to get interesting, with many good, healthy years still ahead. Support the show Sign-up for my NEWSLETTER for upcoming episodes, and yoga with MJ Send a voicemail with your question or thought, it might be part of a future episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/Shareyogawithmj Find MJ Waddell at: WEBSITE https://shareyogawithmj.com FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=557038390 YOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/@TheYOY50 INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/maryjaynewaddell/ E-MAIL maryjaynewaddell@gmail.com Dan Jones-Editor Find Dan at: https://cocoabeachweb.com/

    38 min
  4. Beginnings Matter--How We Start a Yoga Class and How We Start Anything

    JAN 10

    Beginnings Matter--How We Start a Yoga Class and How We Start Anything

    Send a text and share your thoughts. We want to hear from you! How you begin a yoga class is often how you begin everything else—a new year, a new day, or a new chapter in life. In this episode, MJ reflects on why beginnings matter and how the first moments of a yoga class can set the tone for presence, safety, curiosity, and ease. Drawing from years of teaching experience, she explores how time of day, energy in the room, and nervous system awareness all shape the way we begin. You’ll also hear a brief, practical tutorial on how to introduce Ujjayi breath to students—one breath at a time—so it feels accessible, supportive, and adaptable rather than forced or confusing. This episode isn’t about trying harder or doing more. It’s about beginning where you are and letting the practice meet you there. What You’ll Learn Why the beginning of a yoga class matters more than we thinkHow morning and evening classes call for different kinds of openingsHow to hold space for groups without overloading students with choicesA simple way to teach Ujjayi breathing that students can explore and adaptHow lessons from the mat quietly transfer into everyday lifeAbout Ujjayi Breath Ujjayi (oo-JAH-yee) is a Sanskrit term often translated as “victorious uprising” or “victorious breath.” It’s commonly described as a slow, steady breath through the nose with a gentle, ocean-like sound—created by softly narrowing the back of the throat. In this episode, MJ shares an approachable way to introduce Ujjayi breath so students can explore it at their own pace and make it work for their bodies and nervous systems. Support the show Sign-up for my NEWSLETTER for upcoming episodes, and yoga with MJ Send a voicemail with your question or thought, it might be part of a future episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/Shareyogawithmj Find MJ Waddell at: WEBSITE https://shareyogawithmj.com FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=557038390 YOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/@TheYOY50 INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/maryjaynewaddell/ E-MAIL maryjaynewaddell@gmail.com Dan Jones-Editor Find Dan at: https://cocoabeachweb.com/

    20 min
  5. Unlearning My Way to 2026

    12/20/2025

    Unlearning My Way to 2026

    Send a text and share your thoughts. We want to hear from you! As the year comes to a close, this episode is a reflection on what 2025 offered—through learning, unlearning, healing, and showing up again and again. Endings don’t feel like endings here; they feel like space being made for what’s next. Unlearning as a Practice After decades of yoga, unlearning has become just as important as learning. Letting go of absolutes, expectations, and old stories creates room for curiosity, choice, and a more honest practice—on and off the mat. Healing, Recovery, and Gratitude This year included profound healing, from living with pain to recovery after two hip replacements. Yoga provided the tools for patience, consistency, and gratitude, and reinforced the truth that every body—and every practice—has its own timeline. Teaching with Deeper Awareness Experience has deepened my understanding that every student arrives with a unique physical, emotional, and mental history. Yoga meets us where we are, without judgment or comparison, and invites us into a kinder relationship with our bodies. The Retreat: A Long-Held Dream Realized After 15 years of dreaming, I co-led my first retreat on Bald Head Island, NC. The experience reshaped what I thought a retreat “should” be—simple, nourishing, accessible, and deeply human. Letting Plans Evolve From sharing weekly mantras to exploring mudras, this year also included learning when to pause or release ideas that no longer felt aligned. Unlearning includes trusting that growth doesn’t always look like sticking to a plan. Looking Ahead to 2026 As I step into another year of the podcast, I’m continuing to share yoga with curiosity, humility, and openness. If there are topics you’d love to hear more about, I’d truly enjoy hearing from you. 👉 This is the place to click the link to  Whispers of Renewal. Thank you for listening, sharing, and practicing alongside me. Your presence here matters more than you know. Support the show Sign-up for my NEWSLETTER for upcoming episodes, and yoga with MJ Send a voicemail with your question or thought, it might be part of a future episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/Shareyogawithmj Find MJ Waddell at: WEBSITE https://shareyogawithmj.com FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=557038390 YOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/@TheYOY50 INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/maryjaynewaddell/ E-MAIL maryjaynewaddell@gmail.com Dan Jones-Editor Find Dan at: https://cocoabeachweb.com/

    16 min
  6. How Yoga Complements Fitness after 50 with Kristin Mangold

    12/06/2025

    How Yoga Complements Fitness after 50 with Kristin Mangold

    Send a text and share your thoughts. We want to hear from you! In this episode of The Youthful Older Yogi, MJ sits down with the incredible Kristin Mangold — a captain and merchant marine, lifelong mover, and a dedicated yoga practitioner of more than 20 years. Kristen brings a grounded, approachable spirit to everything she does, and she’s the perfect guide for today’s conversation on weaving yoga into a full, active life. Together, we explore how yoga complements other fitness practices — especially as we move into our 50s, 60s, and beyond. Yoga isn’t meant to stand alone; it’s a powerful partner to whatever movement speaks to you, whether that’s strength training, cardio, group classes, or simply walking. As Kristen shares her own journey, you’ll hear how yoga has supported her body, balanced her fitness routine, and offered both physical and mental benefits. In This Episode, We Talk About: Kristen’s background as a captain and merchant marineHer 20+ year yoga journeyThe fitness routines she practices todayWhy movement matters at any ageHow yoga’s benefits shift as we age — and why that’s actually a giftEncouragement for anyone who feels “late” to start moving (spoiler: you’re not!)Whether you’re already juggling multiple types of exercise or you’re just getting started, this episode offers down-to-earth wisdom, inspiration, and a fresh perspective on staying active through the decades. Listen in, breathe deep, and remember: Movement is movement, and it’s never too late to begin. Support the show Sign-up for my NEWSLETTER for upcoming episodes, and yoga with MJ Send a voicemail with your question or thought, it might be part of a future episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/Shareyogawithmj Find MJ Waddell at: WEBSITE https://shareyogawithmj.com FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=557038390 YOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/@TheYOY50 INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/maryjaynewaddell/ E-MAIL maryjaynewaddell@gmail.com Dan Jones-Editor Find Dan at: https://cocoabeachweb.com/

    22 min
  7. When Yoga Brings You to Tears

    11/22/2025

    When Yoga Brings You to Tears

    Send a text and share your thoughts. We want to hear from you! Ever found yourself in pigeon pose thinking, “Huh… why am I suddenly leaking from my eyes?” You’re not alone — and you’re definitely not broken. In this episode, we dive into the very real, very human moment when yoga unexpectedly brings up tears, tenderness, and every emotion in between. MJ opens with a personal story about the first time she realized that crying on the mat isn’t just possible — it’s common. From there, she unpacks what might be happening beneath the surface, including the current theories about fascia, emotional release, and why stillness plus breath can unlock things we’ve been holding for years. You’ll also learn: ✨ Why emotional releases in yoga are normal (and even healing)  ✨ How our upbringing around emotions influences what happens on the mat  ✨ The science and the mystery behind fascia and stored tension ✨ Practical tips on what to do if you’re the one crying ✨ How yoga teachers can support students who become emotional in class ✨ Why your mat can become your “Dr. Mat”—your safe place to unravel and rebuild Toward the end, MJ shares details on two special January programs designed to help you start 2026 with a steady, soulful foundation: Meditation Made Easy for Beginners & SkepticsYoga for True BeginnersBoth programs open for registration on November 24th and are limited to 30 students each. Head to www.shareyogawithmj.com to learn more and sign up for MJ’s newsletter so you don’t miss early access and updates. If yoga has ever surprised you with tears… or if you're a teacher wanting to feel more confident holding space for emotional students… this episode is for you. Until next time — keep sharing yoga. Support the show Sign-up for my NEWSLETTER for upcoming episodes, and yoga with MJ Send a voicemail with your question or thought, it might be part of a future episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/Shareyogawithmj Find MJ Waddell at: WEBSITE https://shareyogawithmj.com FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=557038390 YOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/@TheYOY50 INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/maryjaynewaddell/ E-MAIL maryjaynewaddell@gmail.com Dan Jones-Editor Find Dan at: https://cocoabeachweb.com/

    18 min
  8. Let's Not Do This Solo

    11/08/2025

    Let's Not Do This Solo

    Send a text and share your thoughts. We want to hear from you! 🎙️ Let’s Not Do This Solo In this episode, MJ shares why companionship and accountability are so powerful, especially as we move into a new year of caring for our bodies, minds, and hearts. You’ll also hear a few of her stories from teaching yoga and meditation in community — and how even solo practices can create deep bonds when shared with others. So much of what we do for our health — yoga, meditation, exercise — can feel like a solo act. But studies (and real life!) show that we stick with new habits longer when we do them together. Here’s why partnering up works:  • You’re more likely to stay consistent when someone’s counting on you.  • It’s simply more fun — shared laughter and small wins go a long way.  • Connection and community are vital to healthy aging and emotional well-being. ✨ Black Friday Specials! Starting November 24, 2025, registration opens for MJ’s two upcoming programs: 🧘‍♀️ Yoga for True Beginners — a 5-week online series for brand-new yogis. 🧘‍♂️ Meditation Made Easy for Beginners and True Skeptics — learn four simple styles of meditation (no incense required). Both programs begin January 3, 2026, and space is limited to just 30 participants each. Maybe this is the year you start something new — with a friend by your side. 🌐 Learn more and register at shareyogawithmj.com 💬 Questions or want to meet MJ first? Book a free discovery call right from the website — she’d love to connect. Support the show Sign-up for my NEWSLETTER for upcoming episodes, and yoga with MJ Send a voicemail with your question or thought, it might be part of a future episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/Shareyogawithmj Find MJ Waddell at: WEBSITE https://shareyogawithmj.com FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=557038390 YOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/@TheYOY50 INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/maryjaynewaddell/ E-MAIL maryjaynewaddell@gmail.com Dan Jones-Editor Find Dan at: https://cocoabeachweb.com/

    16 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Yogi Host and founder of SHARE YOGA, MJ Waddell, explores staying youthful in mind and body after 50. An E-RYT 500 yoga teacher, practitioner and educator for over 25 years, she advocates for movement, creativity and not missing the best years ahead. Real conversations with wellness pros and older yogis who still Down-Dog and dig it! Two episodes a month. Become a listener and supporter https://www.buzzsprout.com/2218834/supportWatch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theYOY50

Information

  • Creator
    MJ Waddell
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    60
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Youthful Older Yogi
  • Show Website
    The Youthful Older Yogi