Yogaland Podcast

Is yoga enough? It's one of the most debated questions in the wellness world — and honestly, it's the wrong question. Yoga has specific strengths and specific limitations. The most useful thing we can do as practitioners and teachers is understand both — clearly and without defensiveness. That's what this episode does. We look at what yoga genuinely does brilliantly — and where it falls meaningfully short. Not to diminish yoga, but to add complement it with additional strength-training as a modality. Jason's newest online course, Strong Yoga is now open for enrollment! To learn more and register, click here: learn.jasonyoga.com/strongyoga Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/yogaland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Most yoga backbend preparation focuses on opening the front body. That's valuable — but it's only half the equation. The posterior shoulders, rhomboids, and upper back muscles that should be driving backbends are almost never specifically strengthened in a yoga practice. The result: most practitioners push the floor away rather than pulling the chest forward — and no amount of additional stretching fixes a strength problem. This week’s podcast fixes that. Jason breaks down three targeted resistance band exercises for the posterior shoulders and upper back — and immediately applies each one to Locust, Cobra, Camel, and Bridge so you can feel the difference in real time. What You'll Learn: Why posterior shoulder and upper back weakness is the most overlooked limitation in yoga backbends Three resistance band exercises — seated and standing row, elbow flare pull, and band pull-apart at three angles — that directly target the muscles yoga consistently under-develops How to choose the right resistance level and…

If you've been wondering how to incorporate resistance training into your yoga classes without losing what makes yoga yoga — this episode is for you. In this conversation breaks down his exact six-phase structure bringing resistance training into a yoga context. The central insight: resistance doesn't make yoga harder. Done intelligently, it makes yoga easier, more embodied, and more effective than ever before. We talk through: -Why Jason developed this approach — the personal and professional reasons behind this evolution -Why yoga props have always facilitated length and support -How resistance training and yoga are complementary modalities that address each other's gaps directly -Andrea's personal experience of how targeted strengthening resolved years of chronic SI joint pain -Why pranayama and meditation are non-negotiable in this structure -The interdisciplinary philosophy behind Jason's approach — why looking at embodiment through multiple lenses produces greater truth than any single ideology -Why…

The summer went quickly; we thought we'd reconvene and catch you up on our latest in life and yoga. As a reminder! Yoga-ish conversations are where we share life stuff, and although it may cross over into yoga territory, it is decidedly non-technical. This week, we cover a lot of ground and talk about: Books we loved this summer What we're watching (spoiler: We're divided over Widow's Bay) Surprising joy in our journey with memory care Jason's professional evolution and the vulnerability that comes with it What's coming next — a new resistance training course for yogis called Strong Yoga. Join the waitlist to learn all about it: jasonyoga.com/strength Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/yogaland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What is yoga — really? Most practitioners and teachers can answer that question with a pose, a breath, or a feeling. Far fewer can answer it with the philosophical depth the tradition actually deserves. This week's episode does just that. Drawing on academic scholarship, Sanskrit etymology, and nearly 30 years of teaching and study, Jason identifies the six core teachings that appear consistently across the diverse spectrum of yoga traditions — from Hatha to Jnana, from Karma to Bhakti, from Patanjali to modern practice. Not a single reductive definition, but a genuine philosophical framework that holds up across lineages, eras, and approaches. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/yogaland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Most yoga twists are done to the spine — not with it. In nearly every conventional yoga twist, the arms and legs do the work: The hand presses against the knee. The elbow hooks outside the thigh. The leverage of the limbs produces the rotation, while the spinal muscles — the obliques, the multifidus, the deep rotators — remain largely passive. The spine is being twisted. It is not doing the twisting. I turn this on its head in this week’s solocast. In 15 minutes, you’ll transform the quality and depth of three yoga-informed spinal rotation exercises by adding resistance bands. This is not just about better twists. It's about building functional rotational strength that yoga's conventional twisting patterns cannot provide. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/yogaland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week Jason and I have a conversation the yoga world has been dancing around for years: Does yoga build strength? Jason offers an honest framework for understanding the ways that yoga builds strength — and where it genuinely falls short. What You'll Learn: Why strength matters — particularly for longevity The two primary components of strength development and how yoga addresses each one How yoga builds neuromuscular strength, efficiency, and coordination — and why that's more valuable than most practitioners realize Why yoga will never produce hypertrophy — and what that means for long-term health, muscle mass, and metabolic function What progressive overload is and why bodyweight training alone cannot provide it Why yoga primarily recruits Type 1 fibers and almost never accesses Type 2 fibers and why it matters Why resistance training and yoga are not competing modalities — they are extraordinary partners The Iyengar yoga innovation argument: why adding resistance training tools to yoga is no different…

If you've been meaning to teach pranayama in your classes but keep finding reasons to wait — this week's podcast is for you. Most yoga teachers want to include breathwork. The problem isn't interest — it's knowing where to start, how long to spend, and whether students will actually value it. This episodes solves all three problems in under 20 minutes, with three simple, immediately usable techniques you can bring to your next class. No restructuring required. No special training needed. Just three practical breathwork tools, three locations in your class to use them, and the confidence to begin. The Three Techniques Covered: Coherence Breathing / Sama Vritti Pranayama — 5.5 x 5.5 seconds, ideal for class openings Breath-linked movement — half sun salutations, Utkatasana flow, eagle arms transitions Extended exhale breathing — 6:2:8:2 ratio, ideal pre-Savasana for nervous system downregulation Chapters: 00:00 Introduction — why yoga teachers keep putting pranayama off 01:20 Concern 1: Will my students get…

Most yoga teachers cue Full Boat Pose as an abdominal exercise. It isn't — and once you understand why, you'll also discover Low Boat Pose: the most underused core exercise in yoga. Full Boat Pose (Paripurna Navasana) is primarily a hip flexor exercise. Low Boat Pose (Ardha Navasana) is primarily an abdominal exercise. Understanding why — and how to use both intelligently — is one of the most practical yoga anatomy insights you can bring to your teaching and your practice. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/yogaland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Most people assume tight hamstrings are a stretching problem. They're not. Hamstring tightness is almost always multifactorial, which means the solution requires a broader range of strategies — not more of the same stretching that hasn't worked. On this podcast, Jason breaks down 6 evidence-informed strategies for improving hamstring flexibility that go well beyond passive stretching. Whether you're a yoga teacher, yoga student, or anyone focused on mobility and movement quality, these strategies will change how you think about — and train — your hamstrings. What you'll learn: -Why foam rolling works neurologically — not just mechanically — and how to use it as a primer before you stretch -Why strengthening your glutes may do more for your hamstring flexibility than more stretching ever will -How weak hip flexors limit anterior pelvic tilt — and why that directly limits hamstring length -Why your adductors (especially adductor magnus) may be quietly working against your hamstring flexibility -How dynamic…

Wow wow wow -- it's been 10 years since the launch of Yogaland! It feels like it's been a heartbeat and also a lifetime. There's been so much learning, growth, and love while making these episodes for the past decade. I spent time compiling precious insights--gems if you will--that stood out to me from the past 10 years. We revisit moments with: Amy Ippoliti — free diving, environmental activism, and asking young people about purpose instead of popularity James Woods (Dat Yoga Dude) — bringing yoga and social-emotional learning into schools and communities Maty Ezraty — why even the most accomplished yoga teachers still get nervous before every class Susanna Harwood Rubin — navigating metastatic cancer with devotion, sacred spaces, and grace Judith Lasater — the concept of inner gold and what distinguishes a truly good teacher from an abusive one Jill Miller — the five Ps of inducing the relaxation response and harnessing vagal tone Andrea Jain — an unbiased take on academic history of yoga's globalization…

This week's podcast is such a special one because it focuses on our family. Jason sits down with his brother, Todd, to talk about growing up together, the chaos of addiction within family, anxiety, self-compassion, and healing as an ongoing process. I love both of these men so much, and I'm so proud of them for sharing so openly. This isn't a yoga-specific episode — it's a conversation between two brothers about family trauma and the instability that addiction creates for everyone, not just the person with the addiction. I hope you will listen, and if you or someone you know is struggling with addiction or is in recovery, I hope you will share it. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/yogaland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As yogis, we’re certainly aware of the many benefits of stretching — but are you aware of what the research actually says about how to stretch effectively? Or how to evaluate that research honestly? On this week’s Yogaland, I’m sharing meta-analyses and systematic reviews to give you a clear, accurate, and intellectually honest picture of what actually increases flexibility. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why dynamic and passive stretching work through completely different mechanisms — and why you need both. What the research consistently shows about stretch intensity — and why moderate intensity outperforms both light and maximal stretching for tissue adaptation. The sweet spot for hold duration — and why total weekly volume matters more than any single session variable. The most important and most under-appreciated variable in flexibility training. I'd love to know what you think of episodes like these, so please leave a comment. It also helps others find our work. Support this show…

What happens when two yoga teachers fall down a NASA rabbit hole and can't stop thinking about non-duality, The Overview Effect, and Grandmother Moon? This episode of Yoga-ish — our more personal, less technique-focused podcast — is exactly that kind of conversation. Yoga-ish is where Jason and Andrea talk about their actual lives: what they're reading, watching, thinking about, and how all of it connects (loosely) to yoga, mindfulness, and the work of being a human. We covered so much this week, including: - Artemis II & The Overview Effect — and why astronauts returning from space sound a lot like meditators coming out of deep practice - Christina Koch's transmission from the far side of the moon and what "moon joy" actually means - Our review of Project Hail Mary + what we're reading - Neurodivergent kids, intrinsic motivation, and letting go of the sticker chart - 10 years of Yogaland — and what's coming next For more of Andrea's essays and access to free guided meditations, subscribe to her Substack:…

If you've ever felt lonely as a yoga teacher — you're not alone. And that's exactly what this week's podcast is about. Teaching yoga is one of the most isolating jobs most people never see coming. You're surrounded by students, immersed in a tradition built on connection, and somehow you still end up feeling like you're doing it alone. In this video I'm naming that honestly — and talking about what we can actually do about it. Jason talks about: Why teaching yoga is more isolating than it looks from the outside The structural reasons yoga teachers feel like ships in the night The real cost of isolation — burnout, imposter syndrome, and self-doubt Why community with fellow teachers is irreplaceable How connecting to your lineage and tradition sustains you What I built to solve this problem — and how you can do the same Become part of Jason's community of yoga teachers: ✅ Get your 300hr & 500hr Teacher Training Certificate with Jason: https://learn.jasonyoga.com/300 Support this show…

You've been told to stretch more. You've tried the releases, the routines, the one weird trick. And you're still not as flexible as you want to be. Here's why: flexibility isn't one thing — it's four. And until you understand all of them, you're only ever solving part of the problem. Chapters 00:00 — Why flexibility is misunderstood 00:33 — The 4 Factors that contribute to flexibility 01:47 — Factor 1: Structural factors — your fixed container 06:01— Factor 2: Tissue quality — muscle, fascia, tendons and ligaments 14:07 — Factor 3: Neural factors — how your nervous system governs range 21:24— Factor 4: Lifestyle, age, and training context 27:06 — The flexibility matrix — putting it all together 28:13 — What this means for your practice and your teaching WHAT YOU'LL LEARN -Why two people can do the same practice for years and have completely different ranges of motion -The difference between flexibility and mobility — and why it matters for how you train -How your joint architecture sets a ceiling that no…

The yoga world has done important work questioning its obsession with extreme range of motion — and rightly so. But the pendulum has swung too far. Flexibility and mobility aren't relics of an outdated paradigm. They're essential physical qualities with real implications for how well you move, how long you stay independent, and how good you feel in your body. In this podcast, Jason makes the case for why flexibility and mobility still matter — not as performance goals, not as aesthetic pursuits, but as foundational components of a healthy, functional body. We cover: -Why flexibility and mobility are longevity qualities, not just fitness qualities - How restricted range of motion leads to fibrosis, compensation patterns, and decreased independence over time. -Why flexibility actually contributes to strength — and why the idea that they're opposites is a false premise. -The length-tension relationship and what it means for how muscles generate force. -Why a body with usable, controlled range of motion is more…

Yoga philosophy gives context to the physical practices many of us experience first — postures, breathwork, and meditation. It connects modern yoga to its historical roots and helps us understand the deeper purpose of the tradition. In this conversation, I explore several reasons yoga philosophy still matters today. It provides a framework for values, offers existential perspective, and strengthens the mind in the same way that asana strengthens the body. Philosophy also helps protect yoga from becoming overly performative or purely consumer-driven, reminding us that yoga is ultimately about self-understanding and transformation. Whether you’re a yoga teacher, longtime practitioner, or simply curious about yoga beyond the poses, philosophy can add depth, clarity, and meaning to your practice. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/yogaland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Most yoga teachers are taught that sequencing should be creative, complex, and always different. But these common beliefs often making teaching harder -- and keep both teachers and students stuck. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/yogaland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is our second in a series of solocasts (you might remember that Andrea did one recently, Why Mindfulness is Still Important). In this week's episode, I explain why strength matters for yoga practitioners and teachers — not as a performance goal, but as a foundational quality that supports stability, protects joints, improves proprioception, and ultimately helps us practice for a lifetime. 💡 In this episode, you’ll learn: • Why strength protects joints and connective tissue • How strength improves stability and supports mobility • Why flexibility without strength can become a liability • How resistance training enhances proprioception and body awareness • Why yoga practitioners especially benefit from developing strength • How strength supports longevity in yoga practice As yoga practitioners, we’re already very good at creating flexibility and range of motion. But strength gives us the ability to control that range. It creates tone, stability, and resilience. If you’re a yoga teacher, this perspective…

On this week's podcast, Jason outlines why the old models of yoga sequencing are no longer effective in today's landscape. To name a few: More people cross-train. Fewer students are walking into studios. ClassPass has changed loyalty. Online platforms have shifted expectations. If you want better student retention, stronger engagement, and a more sustainable yoga teaching career, this conversation is essential. ⸻ ⏱ Highlights 2:23 Sequencing 2.0 — What’s New 6:00 The Two Traditional Sequencing Models 6:57 The Problem with Fixed Sequences 8:07 The Problem with Random Classes 13:29 Why Student Retention Is Harder Now 20:39 Online Teaching & Retention 29:50 ClassPass & (the lack of) Loyalty 35:19 The Solution: Monthly Progressions 35:33 How to Build Skill Over Time ⸻ Jason shares why consistency and novelty must coexist, how to use month-long progressions, how to think like an educator, and how we can help students build skills, helping to build student retention. to maintain retention. If you’re serious about…

Most yoga teacher trainings prepare you to teach one class at a time. They don’t teach you how to build real student progress. Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 4:04 The hidden gap in yoga teacher training 5:50 Why “random” classes stall student progress 8:40 The burnout cycle for yoga teachers 13:24 The curriculum mindset explained 14:40 Monthly arcs, series & workshops 27:58 Expanding your teaching career In this episode, Jason breaks down the most overlooked skill in modern yoga teacher training: learning how to think like an educator instead of teaching one-off classes. Most 200-hour yoga teacher trainings focus on sequencing individual classes. But students don’t learn in 60-minute increments. They need repetition, structure, continuity, and progressive overload to make real progress. You’ll learn: • Why random yoga sequencing leads to student plateaus • How lack of curriculum causes teacher burnout • The difference between novelty and skill development • How to design month-long class arcs • How to create…

In this Yogaland episode, Jason Crandell and I talk candidly about power dynamics in yoga, the potential for abuse of authority, and how students and teachers can protect what’s most important: trust, safety, consent, and healthy boundaries. We’re not psychologists or legal experts — but we’ve been in the yoga world for decades, and we’ve seen how quickly a “teacher-student relationship” can become unhealthy when authority, charisma, and vulnerability collide. The goal of this conversation is simple: help more people recognize warning signs early, keep their autonomy intact, and stay connected to yoga in a way that’s grounded, mature, and safe. You’ll hear us cover: • The most common red flags in teacher-student dynamics • Why critical thinking belongs in yoga spaces • How “one true way” teaching can become coercive • Charisma, attachment, and love-bombing in wellness culture • Why discouraging cross-training or other teachers is a problem • How “inner circles” and status tiers can create vulnerability •…

In this solo episode, Andrea explores why mindfulness remains a vital practice—especially during times of collective stress, uncertainty, and moral overwhelm. Drawing from Buddhist foundations of mindfulness, personal experience, and years of teaching yoga and meditation, Andrea reframes mindfulness not as passivity or “everything’s fine” thinking, but as the practice of witnessing—with non-judgment and loving awareness—what is actually here. She reflects on: Why mindfulness helps us sit with difficult emotions without becoming overwhelmed by them The difference between non-judgment and disengagement How loving awareness transforms mindfulness from a cold observation into an act of care Why yoga teachers’ ability to “hold space” is both invisible and essential How short, accessible mindfulness practices can support nervous system regulation and clarity Andrea also shares three practical ways to integrate mindfulness into daily life, including mindfulness walks, working skillfully with unpleasant moments, and…

Most yoga teachers undervalue how powerful good demonstrations really are. In this episode, we break down how, when, and why to demonstrate yoga poses so students actually learn. Demonstration is one of the most overlooked—and misunderstood—skills in yoga teaching. In this episode of Yogaland, Jason shares how to demonstrate yoga poses effectively in both in-person and online classes, and why visual communication plays such a crucial role in student learning. You’ll learn: • When yoga teachers should and should not demonstrate • The pros and cons of practicing with the group vs. observing • How demonstration impacts student comprehension and retention • The biggest mistakes teachers make when demonstrating poses • Why orientation and timing matter more than flexibility or strength • How to demonstrate safely without risking injury • Smart strategies for Zoom classes, recorded classes, and live online teaching • How beginner teachers can use demonstration to build confidence and pacing Whether you teach…

The start of a new year can feel exciting and overwhelming for yoga teachers. New students, new expectations, new pressure. In this episode of Yogaland, Jason shares six foundational anchors to help you ground your teaching, reconnect with your students, and create classes that are sustainable—for you and for them. Rather than chasing trends or social media metrics, this conversation focuses on what actually builds strong classes and long-term teaching careers: consistency, kindness, real connection, movement quality, stillness and regeneration, and empowering students to make informed choices in their practice. Whether you’re teaching full classes, building a schedule in the new year, or simply wanting to feel more rooted and confident as a teacher, this episode offers practical perspective you can apply immediately—without adding more to your plate. ⸻ Highlights 00:00 – Why teachers feel overwhelmed at the start of the year 01:29 – Anchor #1: Consistency in tone, sequencing & expectations 04:40 – Anchor…

The holidays can be joyful… and also a lot—especially if you’re introverted, neurodivergent, parenting a neurodivergent kid, or trying to manage family expectations without burning out. In this episode, we share the holiday traditions that actually work for their family—and the boundaries that make those traditions possible. We talk about front-loading expectations, time boundaries, demand avoidance, and why it’s okay to let other people have their feelings when you don’t meet their expectations. You’ll also hear practical strategies for navigating social events (without forcing yourself or your child to “perform”), plus a few favorite holiday rituals—from cookie baking to Christmas Eve dinner to a Christmas Day zoo trip. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by holiday gatherings, unsure how to set boundaries with family, or stuck between “being flexible” and “protecting your nervous system,” this conversation will help. In this episode: • Holiday boundaries for introverts and neurodivergent families • Why time…

As the year winds down, we’re reflecting on the real gifts yoga has given us—beyond poses and flexibility. In this conversation, we talk about pranayama and nervous-system regulation (including HRV), learning acceptance as our bodies age, how yoga builds discernment around recovery, and what we’re grateful for (including health, community, and the unexpected growth that comes from changing course as parents and professionals). If you’re navigating stress, pain, aging, burnout, or a shifting relationship with practice, this episode is an honest look at what yoga can offer for the long haul—and what we’re ready to let go of as we head into a new year. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/yogaland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Long before Jason was an anatomy nerd, a sequencing, and a technique nerd, he was a philosophy nerd. In fact, his undergraduate degree is in Philosophy. On this episode, he breaks down Patanjali’s 8-limbed path through a modern, practical model that finally makes sense -- not as a ladder to climb, but as concentric circles of self-regulation that move from the external to the deeply internal. We’ll explore how yama, niyama, asana, pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhyana, and samadhi work together as a system for grounding, clarity, and inner steadiness — and why this perspective is easier to apply in real life than the traditional “8 steps” approach. If this brings more clarity to the 8 limbs, please share it with your students or fellow teachers! ***A reminder: Jason's 200-Hour Online Yoga Teacher Training is now open for enrollment. The early bird pricing expires Dec. 21st, so enroll before then to lock in your $300 discount. Learn more at jasonyoga.com/200 Support this show…

In this episode, we’re catching up on… us. Jason is out of retirement, teaching live classes at an exclusive spot in Carlsbad, Andrea shares how strength training and high-protein eating (like, super high-protein) has helped her get out of chronic knee and foot pain in post-menopause. We also talk shoulder rehab, why teachers don’t need to “do it all” in class, and what’s currently entertaining us (books, TV, and yes—Dancing With the Stars). >> Jason announced a few live teaching events in 2026. To get the announcements, join our newsletter: jasonyoga.com/newsletter >> Learn about Jason’s 200-Hour Online Yoga Teacher Training (early-bird registration through December 21st): learn.jasonyoga.com/200 Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/yogaland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it really feel like to teach yoga for the first time? In this episode of The Making of a Yoga Teacher, Jason takes you inside that nerve-wracking but transformative moment every new teacher faces: stepping to the front of the room. Laurel, Raquel, and Erin talk about what it was like to teach for the first time during the training. Through their stories, you’ll see that every yoga teacher starts here — nervous, vulnerable, and discovering that courage grows with each breath and each class. ________________________________________ We're having a Black Friday/Cyber Monday sale this week! Save 20% on all of our Continuing Education courses when you enter code BREATHE25 at checkout. Enjoy! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/yogaland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Want to improve your shoulder health? Listen to this episode. It's a two-parter and it focuses on 1) an important functional movement of the shoulders that is often overlooked in yoga and 2) essential mobility drills for the shoulders that yogis can incorporate into their practice. I've got shoulders on my mind because I am about to begin teaching my Shoulders, Upper Back, and Neck Module of my 300-Hour YTT. We begin this Wednesday and I'd love to see you there. It's open to students who'd like to deepen their practice and teachers who would like to feel more confident and knowledgeable. You can learn more and register at jasonyoga.com/300 Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/yogaland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it really feel like to teach yoga for the first time? In this episode of The Making of a Yoga Teacher, Jason takes you inside that nerve-wracking but transformative moment every new teacher faces: stepping to the front of the room. Laurel, Raquel, and Erin talk about what it was like to teach for the first time during the training. Through their stories, you’ll see that every yoga teacher starts here — nervous, vulnerable, and discovering that courage grows with each breath and each class. 👉 Learn more about Jason's 200-Hour Training here: jasonyoga.com/200 👉 Jason has a 300-Hour Module coming up in one week! Learn about it here: jasonyoga.com/300 Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/yogaland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to do a yoga teacher training—or if you’re looking for insight, motivation, and honesty about the process—this episode shows how transformation begins: one decision, one class, one breath at a time. You'll meet Laurel, Raquel, and Erin and find out what made them say yes to their journey toward becoming yoga teachers. 🎥 Episodes in this series: 1️⃣ How It All Begins — Starting Yoga Teacher Training 2️⃣ Finding Your Voice — The First Time Teaching 3️⃣ Becoming Yourself — Confidence, Connection & Growth 4️⃣ The First Class — Teaching in the Real World 🧘‍♂️ Learn about Jason Crandell’s Online 200-Hour Training → learn.jasonyoga.com/200 Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/yogaland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week -- a solocast from Jason, fresh from his trip teaching a weeklong "Sequencing 2.0" training in London. On this episode, he breaks down a practical framework for scaling a single 60-minute sequence into: (1) shorter online formats (2) longer workshops (3) four-week series with clear objectives He also explains why real creativity comes from solving for a goal—not from random choreography—and how to communicate a simple plan so students feel part of something bigger. Psst! Don't miss next week's episode where we launch a four-part “Transformation Series,” that follows three of Jason's trainees through their teacher training journey. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/yogaland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you’ve ever wondered how to balance structure and freedom in your teaching and how to help students problem-solve rather than memorize, Jason shares some ideas on this week's Yoga(ish). We also talk about "the examined life," and what that means to us. Lastly, we share how the "Wawa meet-up," went (spoiler: it was as quirky and sweet as we hoped it would be.) ⸻ ⏱️ Chapters 0:00 Life lately & Chihuahua meetup 4:15 What is the constraint-led approach to learning? 18:34 Applying it to yoga & sequencing 31:16 The shadow side of yoga & self-inquiry 37:00 Why discomfort leads to growth Check out our shownotes with links from the episode: yogalandpodcast.com Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/yogaland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This meditation is an invitation to find softness within you regardless of the chaos around you. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/yogaland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you practiced yoga in the 90s, you know… it was different. Chapters: 00:00 Intro & why we’re talking about 90s yoga 04:03 Andrea’s first yoga class (and the clown car moment) 11:54 Jason’s first yoga class in college 25:11 Quirky studios, circus neighbors & wild props 31:26 What’s changed for better and worse Before it was in every gym, before online classes, before Lululemon — yoga in the U.S. was a quirky subculture you had to seek out. In this episode of Yoga-ish, we share our funniest, weirdest, and most heartfelt memories from our early years of practice: • Renting rooms in funky parts of town with circus performers as neighbors • The original paper-thin blue and green mats that never got cleaned • Heavy wooden props that could double as furniture • Our first teachers — from deeply traditional to delightfully eccentric • How yoga felt before it became mainstream, and what’s changed (for better and worse) Whether you started in the 70s, 90s, or just last week, this is a love letter to yoga’s evolution…

Some lessons change you forever — and yoga has given us more than we can count. After 30 years of practice, these are the teachings we still lean on every day — on and off the mat. In this episode of Yogaland, we share the timeless yoga lessons that have shaped our lives, improved our relationships, and transformed the way we move through the world. Highlights: 00:00 Why enduring lessons matter after decades of practice 01:34 Movement as a tool for emotional regulation 10:10 Self-regulation, steadiness & resilience in daily life 13:35 Learning to be comfortable with discomfort 18:22 Self-study & curiosity over memorization 23:47 Practicing self-compassion on (and off) the mat 29:31 Empathy, compassion & understanding the human condition 34:17 Developing the witness & separating from the ego 40:17 Building better coping skills & mental flexibility 💬 Your turn: What lessons from yoga have stayed with you the longest? Share them in the comments — we’d love to hear your story.…

After 30 years of yoga, we’ve discovered which poses, myths, and cues actually hold you back. Here’s what to let go — and what to focus on instead for a stronger, more sustainable practice. Over three decades of yoga practice, we’ve seen trends, techniques, and teaching cues come and go. In this episode, we share the poses we approach differently now, the myths we no longer believe, and the verbal cues we’ve retired for good. From letting go of “going to your edge” in every pose, to embracing strength training, to rethinking old alignment rules, we reflect on what truly supports longevity, strength, and enjoyment in yoga practice. Whether you’re a yoga teacher or a dedicated student, you’ll find insight, perspective, and a few laughs from our 30 years on the mat. You can find shownotes here: yogalandpodcast.com/episode364 Don't miss! Module II of Jason's 300-Hour YTT August 20th -- Register here: jasonyoga.com/300 Join the waitlist for our 200 hour! Enrollment opens soon: jasonyoga.com/200 Considering YTT…

Teaching yoga isn’t about impressing your students—it’s about supporting them. On this episode, Jason shares 5 things to keep in mind if you're a yoga teacher (especially in the first five years). His ideas will help you feel grounded, confident, and inspired as you build your yoga teaching career. Heads up: Module II of Jason's 300-hour YTT is come up in two week! This is the core + spine module but it's also the module where he does a deep dive into the yoga philosophy of Patanjali. You can get all the info & register here: jasonyoga.com/300 It's all online for maximum flexbility; you can begin the lectures and classes as soon as you register! Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/yogaland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week my guest is Philadelphia-based yoga teacher, Matthew Shaw. Matthew joined the Jason Crandell Yoga Method team as our Lead Teacher Training Mentor this year and has been a longtime student of Jason's. What I didn't know until a few weeks ago is that Matthew spent 20 years in a previous life as a successful opera singer, performing on major stages across Europe—including Germany, Austria, and Hungary. In this conversation, Matthew shares how, in the second half of his career, just as he was really taking off, anxiety and depression decided to tag along. He talks openly about imposter syndrome, how he found solace through yoga and Western meds (you know I love my meds so I'm here for it!) and how his whole journey lead him to where he is today. We spend the second half of the conversation focused on retreats, why they are so vital, and how he creates intentional, supportive spaces for his students to both adventure and reset. We talk about: Why success didn’t solve his self-doubt—in fact, it made it…

This week, I’m joined by yoga teacher and global mindfulness facilitator Josh Blatter. We talk about his teaching journey—from the yoga studio to his work with Peace on Purpose, a program that supports United Nations staff working in some of the most high-pressure environments in the world. Josh shares: Why questioning long-held beliefs is vital for yoga teachers Studying in the Viniyoga lineage and the individualized approach to yoga What it was like to study at the Krishnamacharya Yoga Mandiram in Chennai How Vedic Chant is a powerful part of his personal practice -- and how challenging it is to learn Peace on Purpose and his recent trips to Bangladesh and Pakistan How Josh teaches in high-stress environments and how cultural sensitivity shapes the work Advice for yoga teachers on staying inspired, grounded, and financially afloat A guiding principle for sustainable teaching and caregiving (this one's a huge lightbulb moment for me!) Thank you, as always, for listening and sharing the podcast. If you'd…

On this episode, we dive deep into 5 of the most common yoga cues—offering clearer, more effective alternatives that enhance both understanding and practice. Whether you’re a yoga teacher seeking to improve your verbal communication or a dedicated practitioner eager to refine your alignment, this episode will help you: ✔️ Clarify common cues like “lift your kneecaps” and “tuck your tailbone” ✔️ Understand why some cues aren’t landing and how to adjust them ✔️ Enhance your students’ experience with precise, actionable language Join us as we unpack and rephrase cues that are technically correct but can be made more accessible and impactful. ABOUT OUR ONLINE YOGA TEACHER TRAININGS: ✅ The Essential Guide to Yoga Anatomy Online Course: https://learn.jasonyoga.com/anatomy ✅ Get your 300hr & 500hr Teacher Training Certificate with Jason: https://learn.jasonyoga.com/300 ✅ The Art of Teaching Beginners Online Course: https://learn.jasonyoga.com/beginners ✅ The Art of Yoga Sequencing Online Course:…

In this episode, Jason dives deep into one of the most overlooked — and often overwhelming — skills in yoga teaching: verbal communication. Whether you're a new teacher still getting comfortable saying anything aloud, or a seasoned instructor trying to say less with more impact, this conversation is full of practical insights. You’ll learn how to refine your voice, distill your message, and create space for your students to absorb and respond. Highlights from the episode include: Why saying less often helps students learn more The #1 mistake yoga teachers make with verbal cues (and how to fix it) What Jason learned from Andrea’s editorial red pen ✏️ How to pair your cues with your sequence (and why this skill takes time to develop) What “over-teaching” looks like and how to avoid it Minimizing jargon (and when it's okay to use it) Managing up-speak and down-speak for clarity and confidence Using story, metaphor, and analogy to keep teaching engaging The hardest skill of all: being yourself, even while giving…

What if everything you’ve learned about pranayama tells only half the story? In this episode, Jason Crandell breaks down the two radically different approaches to pranayama found in traditional Hatha Yoga and Patanjali’s Raja Yoga. These lineages share a goal—liberation through practice—but their breathwork techniques, underlying philosophies, and mechanisms of transformation couldn’t be more different. Whether you’re a yoga teacher, a teacher-in-training, or a student curious about the deeper roots of breathwork, this talk will help you understand: • Why pranayama in the Hatha Yoga tradition focuses on energy, purification, and awakening Kundalini • Why Patanjali’s approach to pranayama emphasizes stillness, subtlety, and inner quiet • How each tradition views the purpose of pranayama in relation to the mind, body, and spirit • What these differences mean for your breathwork practice and teaching today This lecture is excerpted from Jason’s online Pranayama Teacher Training, a comprehensive course that…

We're happy to be back with Yoga(ish)! On this episode, we reflect on Autism Acceptance Month. We talk about internalized ableism, ADHD, the power of special interests, and how creating the right environment can unlock learning and joy for neurodivergent kids. Plus: a very passionate review of our current comedy obsession (I Think You Should Leave). CHAPTERS 01:05 Autism Awareness Month 01:30 Love on the Spectrum: A Heartwarming Show 03:54 Personal Reflections on Neurodivergence 13:27 Understanding Autism and Support Needs 15:55 Challenges and Misconceptions in Neurodivergence 23:00 Navigating Social Interactions with Neurodivergent Individuals 24:06 Controversial Views on Autism by RFK Jr. 30:36 Personal Reflections on Political Statements and Neurodiversity 34:13 Challenges and Rewards of Homeschooling 40:54 Comedy Recommendations and Personal Humor 46:50 Closing Remarks and Call to Action ABOUT JASON AND HIS ONLINE YOGA TEACHER TRAININGS: ✅ The Essential Guide to Yoga Anatomy Online Course:…

Feeling stuck, uninspired, or overwhelmed in your teaching journey? In this episode, Jason shares 5 timeless lessons from yoga philosophy that support you — the teacher. These aren’t abstract ideas for your students — they’re personal, practical teachings to help you stay grounded, motivated, and aligned as you grow. Whether you’re a new teacher or a seasoned educator, these insights from the Yoga Sutras and beyond offer tools for navigating self-doubt, comparison, burnout, and creative fatigue. Topics include: • Abhyasa & Vairagya (Effort + Letting Go) • Svadhyaya (Self-Study for Teachers) • Dharma (Teaching with Purpose) • Ahimsa (Self-Compassion in Teaching) • Pratipaksha Bhavanam (Reframing Negative Thoughts) Chapters 01:11 Upcoming Yoga Training Details 02:36 Yoga Philosophy for Teachers 04:07 Abhyasa and Vairagya: Developing and Releasing Patterns 05:19 Practicing Teaching Skills 09:31 Non-Attachment in Teaching 11:59 Knowing Yourself as a Teacher 18:17 Aligning Teaching with Your Purpose 21:45 The…

On this episode, Jason shares how to find your voice as a yoga teacher, how it evolves through different life phases, and how to sustain it over the long haul. You’ll learn why finding your voice is an ongoing process, how to stay confident as a yoga teacher, and how to overcome burnout, self-doubt, and comparison. You'll learn: • How to find your voice as a yoga teacher (and why it’s always evolving) • The role of passions, practice, and personal growth in shaping your teaching style • Common obstacles yoga teachers face—and how to move through them with resilience • Tips to stay inspired, prevent yoga teacher burnout, and build confidence for the long term • How specialized yoga teacher training can help you refine your authentic teaching voice Chapters: 03:00 Finding Your Voice as a Yoga Teacher 05:55 The Evolution of Teaching Styles 09:36 Adopting and Evolving from Your Teacher's Voice 12:54 Personal Journey and Influences 17:00 Incorporating New Interests and Passions 20:29 The Importance of Lifelong…

On this episode, Jason addresses a common question he gets from yoga teachers: When will I start to feel more sure of myself, more confident in my teaching? Whether you’re newly certified or have been teaching for years, this episode will help you fill in the missing pieces and grow into the confident, grounded, and impactful yoga teacher you want to be. What You’ll Learn: • Why so many yoga teachers feel stuck or unprepared after their 200-hour yoga teacher training • The real reason yoga teachers struggle with confidence (it’s not just imposter syndrome) • How to shift from planning individual classes to designing long-term yoga class sequences and themes • Proven strategies to avoid yoga teacher burnout and stay inspired in your teaching • The most common gaps in yoga teacher trainings—and how to build the skills your students actually need • How to grow your teaching career by deepening your skills and becoming a more effective, in-demand yoga instructor A heads' up that Jason's 300-Hour YTT begins May…