Ashtanga Dispatch Podcast

An incredibly important conversation examining the roots of abuse, ways of accountability, and what it means to be both a teacher and student of the Ashtanga yoga method with Sarah Nelson, Greg Nardi, Kino Macgregor, and Peg Mulqueen -- moderated by Melissa Matt. The first of an ongoing series of discussions hosted by Omstars. We appreciate you listening. And if you have any thoughts or comments, please feel free to email me (Peg Mulqueen) directly at [email protected]

What does it mean to be a woman practicing Ashtanga yoga? Join Monica, Genny, Tara, Katy and me as we discuss what can seem like a very masculine practice, from a female perspective. And if you enjoy this episode, then I invite you to join me over on Substack for a new 12-part series exploring the femine archetypes. We begin this month with The Queen. Visit https://pegmulqueen.substack.com to read up and join.

A maverick is someone who is unconventional and thinks for themselves and today's guests are certainly that. Harmony Slater, David Garrigues, and Ty Landrum are all part of the same Ashtanga yoga tradition, and yet, they look almost nothing alike. Each offer their own unique perspective and approach that is in ways, totally opposite. On one end there's David, a lover of form, and on the other, Harmony who embraces the form-less. And then there's Ty and his new Black Lotus Yoga which is both wildly different and not. Though there is one thing they all love and agree on: the color black. (Didn't see that one coming!) Anyway, get ready for a roller coaster of a conversation that was loads of fun (for me) and brilliantly insightful. The fall session of our Yoga Mentorship program begins August 2nd. The focus this session will be on presence and purpose. It's waking up to our own unique dharma, a life calling that is as much our duty as gift. Visit www.ashtangadispatch.com

In this episode of the Ashtanga Dispatch Podcast, David Keil, Jen René and Scott Johnson join me to explore the question of whether Ashtanga yoga is suitable for everyone, not just as teachers but as students, ourselves with our own challenges and needs. We talk about the importance of context, adaptation, and the need be critical thinkers. But like all great questions, this one only led us to even more, and especially this one: how can we become better teachers. Because for students, that's really what it comes down to -- how creative, flexible, and caring we are as teachers. Join our Yoga Mentorship: visit ashtangadispatch.com for details

In this heartfelt conversation, Mary Taylor, Richard Freeman, Tim Feldmann, and Kino MacGregor join Peg Mulqueen and reflect on the profound sense of loss within the Ashtanga Yoga community after the sudden passing of Sharath Jois. They explore themes of grief, connection, and the importance of practice in navigating uncertainty. The discussion delves into the essence of tradition in yoga, sharing personal stories and insights, highlighting the role of rituals and devotion in maintaining a sense of connection to the practice and each other. You can join Mary, Richard, Tim, and Kino along with many other prominent and inspiring teachers at this year's Ashtanga Yoga Confluence, May 1-4, in San Diego, California. You can find more information on the event itself as well as scholarships available here: https://www.ashtangayogaconfluence.com Thanks for listening. We hope you enjoyed.

In today's episode, Dr. Shyam Ranganathan, a scholar and teacher of Yoga Philosophy, discusses how to preserve one's autonomy through the practice and philosophy of Yoga. Learn more about Dr. Ranganathan by visiting his website at www.yogaphilosophy.com and check out his new book, Yoga -- Anticolonial Philosophy: An Action-Focused Guide to Practice. Also, we are currently accepting applications for our Fall Mentorship. Visit www.ashtangadispatch.com to learn more.

Meet one of my favorite yoga teachers, fellow word nerd, and an extrovert who also loves introverting -- Ross Rayburn. In today's episode, we talk about Ross's new book, Turning Inward, an inclusive, practical, if not somewhat unconventional, guide to developing a contemplative practice. You can find Ross's book, Turning Inward, on Spotify or order on Amazon. And if you're interested in more down-to-earth practical explanations of yoga philosophy, check out our online courses. Visit www.ashtangadispatch.com and click on The Path to learn more.

In today's episode, we take a little break from our usual interviews and conversations to bring you a story from Sumerian Mythology called The Descent of Inanna. It begins as, "From the Great Above, Inanna (goddess of light) opens her ear to the Great Below," and from there, journeys into the Underworld, into known and unknown terrors, to follow that call. And it's a story that beautifully illustrates our own quest for Self through yoga. Which is the theme of our upcoming course in April -- Patañjali's Yoga Sūtras: A Practical Guide. Please visit www.ashtangadispatch.com and click on The Path for more information. We hope you enjoy the story!

Patty Ivey is the owner and founder of Down Dog Yoga, one of the hottest yoga studios in Washington, D.C. But after 20 years, she and her husband were ready to embrace the next phase of her life. It was then, at age 70, Patty was diagnosed with breast cancer. Which she now sees as somewhat of a gift -- opening her up to even greater potential. *Registration for our Mentorship Fall Session begins in August. Find details at www.ashtangadispatch.com Today's episode was edited and produced by me, Peg Mulqueen. Music by Marc Pilley.

Today's guest is Ava Taylor, founder of Yama Talent and author of the new book Your Yoga Business. And trust me, today's talk is not just a must for yoga teachers, but anyone starting their own business in today's post-pandemic world. Because things have changed, if you haven't noticed. Some for the better, some not. In today's episode, Ava shares with us business lessons she's learned the hard way and her vision for the future. Visit www.yamatalent.com to learn more! And if you enjoyed today's episode, please pass it along to a friend or give it a share on social media. Help us share (as Ava calls it) the good news!

Dr. Jean Byrne, the co-founder of The Yoga Space www.yogaspace.com.au in Perth, Australia, talks with me about changes she's made personally and within her teaching after a momentous crisis of faith -- a turning point that would help liberate her own intuition, personal power, and truth. We hope this conversation inspires more just like this. Btw, we learned about Jean through one of her students, who is currently a part of our Mentorship program, which we are expanding into 2024. To join or find out more, please visit www.ashtangadispatch.com The Ashtanga Dispatch Yoga Podcast is hosted, produced, and edited by Peg Mulqueen. Music by Marc Pilley. Thanks for listening.

"For spiritual expats and philosophical refugees, somatic explorers, soul hunters, star gazers, rule breakers and other mystical miscreants who have had enough of the ruses of religion, and want to set down dogma..." These were the words that Ty Landrum, our guest on today's Ashtanga Dispatch Yoga Podcast, used in describing his Into the Depths course, which Meghan had the pleasure of participating in. But really, Ty might as well have been describing himself. For he truly embodies the boundless spirit of yoga -- approaching the practice without sharp distinctions and dogma. And though we may say he breaks the mold of conventional Ashtanga vinyasa yoga, you'll hear him say in this podcast that he simply is exploring yoga in the way it was taught to him and how he understands it. And how his teachings arise out of his own unique experience of yoga. To find out more about Ty Landrum, visit: https://www.tylandrum.com/ To learn more about The Path and the Mentoring Opportunity mentioned in our closing words, please visit: https://ashtangadispatch.com/programs/ The Ashtanga Dispatch Yoga Podcast is hosted, produced, and edited by Peg Mulqueen. along with Meghan Powell. Music is by Marc Pilley.

If you’re a yoga student and on instagram, you might have come across our guest on today's episode, Prasad Rangnekar, where his posts are often widely re-shared by yoga seekers from all style's and lineage's. But what attracted us to Prasad's posts was how they inspired deeper inquiry and curiosity rather than giving us a "right or wrong" answer. Many of his posts focus on topics surrounding not just yoga itself but actually teaching yoga and being a teacher, which Peg and Prasad talk about in today's episode, along with long with yoga being a personal journey, how our definitions can liberate or limit us, and his advice to new teachers. Prasad is a yoga educator from and based in India who has been studying yoga for over 35 years. His training under different teachers has given him a holistic perspective of Yoga and his study continues to date. Prasad guides workshops, retreats, Yoga teacher trainings, Meditation facilitator trainings, Yoga philosophy training and deeper silent immersions -- believing that Yoga is for everyone, beyond age, gender, religion, nationality and physical capability. To find out more about Prasad, visit https://www.yogaprasad.in To learn more about the Mentorship with Peg & Meghan mentioned at the end of the podcast, please visit https://ashtangadispatch.com/programs/mentoring-opportunity/ We hope you enjoy listening!

Meet Lea Perfetti, an Ashtanga yoga teacher I discovered on Instagram after a series of posts that were so raw and real, I knew there had to be a pretty powerful story behind. Hers is not just one woman's story, but one that many of us have lived, but often too ashamed to tell. It's a story of vulnerability and courage, of breaking open and breaking free - from cultural norms and societal pressures. From the shame of seeking help and needing to be perfect. We need to stop keeping our stories and struggles a secret. Because far worse than going through dark times, is believing we are the only ones. Learn more about Lea and ways to work with her, visit https://www.oceanwyseyoga.com The Ashtanga Dispatch Yoga Podcast is hosted, edited, and produced by Peg Mulqueen and Meghan Powell. Music by Marc Pilley. Please visit our beautiful, new website - www.ashtangadispatch.com - and see what exciting new offerings are coming for 2023!

Mark Bint grew up with two parents who cannot hear; Mark is known as a CODA, a child of deaf adults. And in today’s episode, Mark tells his story and how growing up in a non-hearing home taught him what it truly means to listen. Today’s transcript can be found on the website. Visit www.ashtangadispatch.com Join Peg Mulqueen and Meghan Powell in Bozeman, Montana July 31 - Aug 4 for their Mountain Yoga Retreat. Details for this are also on the website. Thanks for listening!

Wambui Njuguna-Räisänen is an Ashtanga yoga teacher based in Finland. Born in Kenya and raised in the U.S., Wambui now lives in Helsinki with her husband, Petri who also teaches, and their two young sons. Wambui is passionate about providing wellness through yoga and meditation to those actively engaged in equity and social justice. For in the midst of dismantling systemic oppression, we need to allow space for our own self care. This is part of our practice. And the way we go get our peace. To learn more about Wambui and her offerings, visit http://wambuinjuguna.com/ and @wellnesswithwambui (Patreon and IG).

Though the message isn't necessarily new -- the need for a more malleable and adaptive approach to practice within Ashtanga Yoga -- it's the messenger that may actually surprise you. Today's episode with Eddie Stern is personal and incredibly honest. And one that may leave you with much to (re)consider. If you'd like to experience first hand a kinder, simpler way to practice, visit eddiestern.com to take class with him online. The Ashtanga Dispatch Podcast is hosted, edited, and produced by Peg Mulqueen and Meghan Powell. Music is by Marc Pilley.

The past few years has been like a story that’s unfolding. One that will be told for generations to come. And it is this personal retelling, a weaving together of stories, we will bring you this year through the podcast. Asking the question: How has the pandemic shifted our sense of identity, purpose, and vision as individuals and as a yoga community? We begin with Kino Macgregor, someone we have always admired and enjoyed, and have had on the podcast many times before. And we thought it not possible for Kino to be even more impassioned and purposeful — but we were wrong. Now blazing with passion and clearer than ever, Kino is ready to usher in a new day, and a new paradigm, in yoga. >> Meet us in 2022 on The Path, a unique, online practice space to inspire, connect, and support. Visit www.ashtangadispatch.com to join. The Ashtanga Dispatch Podcast is hosted, edited, and produced by Peg Mulqueen and Meghan Powell. Music by Marc Pilley.

It's the kind of wisdom that can only come from many years of personal practice that guest to the podcast, Kathy Cooper, brings in today's episode. As a female practitioner, now in her 70s, and as youthful and vibrant as ever - Kathy's shared experience is such a gift to the many of us women practicing out there. Speaking of which ... we are excited to announce a unique online practice space, designed especially for women, called The Path. Each month, members will receive a beautiful journal full of essays and stories, practice sessions to download, and a live, online gathering at the end of each month. For more information, please visit www.ashtangadispatch.com/event/thepath2022 The Ashtanga Dispatch Podcast is hosted, edited, and produced by Peg Mulqueen and Meghan Powell. Music is by Marc Pilley. Thanks for listening and sharing this path.

Lara Land is the founder of the non-profit, Three and a Half Acres Yoga, a partnership program that offers yoga, breathing and mindfulness practices to underserved communities. In addition, Lara trains yoga teachers in the area of trauma sensitivity -- a training that focuses primarily on a teacher's own self awareness. Starting December 2nd and lasting the entire month, teachers within the yoga community are leading classes online to help raise money to support Three and Half Acres Yoga. Your donation gives you access to all classes taught by teachers such as Eddie Stern, Donna Noble, Nina Rao, and so many more. But even more important -- you'll be helping to bring the healing of yoga to someone who really needs it. Find out how to donate and attend these classes by visiting www.threeandahalfacres.org The Ashtanga Dispatch Podcast is hosted by Peg Mulqueen and Meghan Powell. Music by Marc Pilley. Thank you for listening.

In today's episode, Dr. Shyam Ranganathan explains the process of translating spiritual texts; how belief systems, both conscious and unconscious, can influence our interpretations; and why logic is better than experience in deciphering ethics. Dr. Ranganathan is a trained scholar and researcher of philosophy and is author, editor and translator of numerous peer reviewed, scholarly works. To learn more, visit www.yogaphilosophy.com or follow on Instagram @ yogaphilosophy_com Also, be sure to check out our newest online offering begins this October -- Living the Path: Using the Tools of Yoga for Navigating Change. We hope you can join us. Visit www.ashtangadispatch.com/online-courses for details. The Ashtanga Dispatch Podcast is hosted by Peg Mulqueen and Meghan Powell. Music is by Marc Pilley.

Join David Garrigues and me as we discuss Yoga Sūtra 3.17: There is a natural confusion of words, meanings, and our own conceptual experience that arises when we superimpose one upon the other. But with perfect focus on distinguishing between the three, we learn the language of all beings. Basically - words matter. As does our experience, use, and interpretation. Words like discipline, tradition, modification, and even the word yoga itself. So we chose a few and attempted to dissect. This conversation was also offered live on Clubhouse and if you're interested in attending future talks, follow @pegmulqueen on Clubhouse. Or sign up for our monthly email at www.ashtangadispatch.com

In today's episode, listen to Deepika Mehta speak to the power of hope and how it plays such an essential role in times of despair. Especially as India suffers through a second wave of COVID. And why teachers from all over the world - including Deepika and us - are uniting this weekend (May 7th + 8th)to offer hope and help with a 24-hour online yoga marathon. Tickets are by donation and you can get yours here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/24-hour-global-yoga-marathon-for-india-covid-relief-tickets-152981575009 We talk about this, but also about what it's been like for her to have a baby in the midst of COVID and the joy of seeing the world anew, through the fresh eyes of her daughter. Plus how motherhood has changed her practice AND her perspective on practice. Thanks for listening and hope to see you at this weekend's online yoga marathon. Also, did you know that Ashtanga Dispatch has a new podcast? It's called On the Path where each month, we will bring you a new trail to explore and someone inspiring to walk along with. You can subscribe to On the Path here: https://www.ashtangadispatch.com/on-the-path-episode-1/ The Ashtanga Yoga Dispatch podcast is hosted, produced, and edited by Peg Mulqueen. along with Meghan Powell. Music is by Marc Pilley. Music is by Marc Pilley

Welcome to On the Path – a new ‘talk as we walk’ podcast from Ashtanga Dispatch where we will take you outside on a new trail or with a new walking partner each month. If you enjoy, go over to apple podcasts and subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/on-the-path-with-ashtanga-dispatch/id1565083628?i=1000518924627 Like to listen on Spotify? You can find us here: https://open.spotify.com/show/70QJ8u3hTrJzfmVJ9coABt?si=ALJd1T4gQBy-I_xCSgIWlQ Today, you'll be walking with me, Peg Mulqueen, up the dirt road that leads from my house in Montana up to the top of the mountain we live on. And along the way, I'll tell you stories about my dad, who grew up as one of 7 kids in Hell's Kitchen NY. My dad has lived a colorful life for sure. With more than his fair share of hardship. Thanks to a crippling car accident, he cannot bend his legs nor touch his toes. And yet, I've learned more from him about yoga in action than anywhere else in my life. We hope you enjoy today's walk. And if you've never heard sandhill cranes, you're in for a treat! They are out in full force, announcing the coming of spring. I've even included a playlist for our walk, which you can find here: https://www.ashtangadispatch.com/on-the-path-episode-1/ Thanks for walking!

In 2004, after an explosion in Iraq, Dan Nevins would ultimate lose both his legs. And in today's pod, Dan will not only tell you this story - but also about his life, before and after. Including how he was introduced to yoga which, as he will tell you, saved him during a particularly dark time. (Though to say he was a reluctant participant is an understatement!) Besides being a veteran and yoga teacher, Dan is a master storyteller. He had Meghan and me in tears - both laughing and crying. Sometimes, both - at the same time. His story is emotional and inspirational. It's a story of resilience ... of relationship ... and of purpose. Learn more about Dan by visiting his website at dannevins.com The Ashtanga Dispatch podcast is hosted, produced, and edited by me, Peg Mulqueen, along with Meghan Powell. Music is by Marc Pilley.

Visit www.ashtangadispatch.com for more interviews, articles, and our latest online classes and courses. Beginning this Saturday is Elements of a Home Practice - a 4-week immersion with Peg Mulqueen + Meghan Powell. And now, on to today's episode with Santina Giardina-Chard ... Santina is an Ashtanga yoga teacher, living on Australia's Gold Coast. Wildly impassioned and blazing with enthusiasm and emotion - Santina is one of those people who knows what it means to step into the fire and let burn what needs to burn. And she will lead you through as well - if you let her. Because sometimes we need to feel the burn before we will loosen our grip and open ourselves up to something new. Often it’s the destruction that clears the space and sets us free. ****This episode contains language not suitable for young or sensitive ears **** Visit www.ashtangadispatch.com and sign up for our email list to receive our full moon musings where each month, we explore various elements of nature and practice. The Ashtanga Dispatch podcast is hosted, produced, and edited by me, Peg Mulqueen. Along with Meghan Powell. Music is by Marc Pilley - www.arksong.net As always, thanks for listening - and enjoy today's spirited talk with Santina Giardina Chard

Today we welcome a very special guest - a woman we hold dear as teacher, mentor, and most especially friend - Dena Kingsberg. Dena has been a devoted student of Ashtanga Yoga for over three decades. Her time spent as a practitioner is evident through her integrative and holistic teaching style. But her devotion and grace are never more apparent than when she closes her eyes, starts to softly hum, and begins to chant. From her homestead in the magical semi-tropics of Goonengerry, Australia - Dena joined us over Zoom. Which is a big change for Dena, who has in the past, purposely separated herself from the digital world, preferring more intimate, in-person encounters. Which of course, for many of us, hasn't been possible for most of 2020. And so Dena has begun exploring ways she might support those feeling isolated and alone. One way is this podcast. And another, an 8-week online chanting workshop that launches this month. You can find details on this as well as learn more about Dena, by visiting her website: www.dena.net.au The Ashtanga Dispatch Podcast is hosted, edited and produced by Peg Mulqueen and Meghan Powell. Music is by Mark Pilley www.arksong.net As always, thank you for listening and supporting. During these difficult times, we are here to support you. Please visit www.ashtangadispatch.com to learn more.

In today's episode, we sit down with Mary Taylor and Richard Freeman to talk about their new book, When Love Comes to Light: Bringing Wisdom from the Bhagavad Gita into Modern Life. https://www.shambhala.com/when-love-comes-to-light-15498.html Never before has a book felt more timely or applicable. Because who among us doesn't feel like Arjuna right now - standing in the middle of a battlefield, unsure of our own purpose and uncertain of what actions to take? Mary and Richard write as WE are Arjuna and Krishna is actually talking to us. Mary and Richard are one of the most loving, insightful, and down-to-earth teachers we know. And whether it's in teaching, writing, or simply having a conversation, they truly do bring the yoga to life. Be the first to receive new podcasts by joining our email. Visit www.ashtangadispatch.com The Ashtanga Dispatch Yoga Podcast is hosted, edited, and produced by Peg Mulqueen and Meghan Powell. Music by Marc Pilley, whose newest album can be downloaded at www.arksong.net Thanks for listening!

Today's chat is with Mark Robberds, Oliver Crossley, and Scott White who together, formed the Yoga Myth Busters. Their hope is to educate and clarify some of those pesky myths that continue to circulate and persist. Like - are your hips always need to be squared? Is it true that anyone can do anything with just practice? And my favorite: No pain, no gain - true or false? Listen and find out! Mark is a certified Ashtanga yoga teacher and movement specialist. And Oliver and Scott are both physiotherapists and yoga practitioners who use yoga in their therapeutic work. Visit our new online Yoga Shala with live and pre-recorded classes by visiting www.ashtangadispatch.com/online-courses. The Ashtanga Dispatch Yoga podcast is hosted, edited, and produced by Peg Mulqueen and Meghan Powell. Music by Marc Pilley.

This week's offering through the podcast is part of an online talk for Merchant City Yoga in Glasgow on how our definition of a yoga practice could be changing as a result of this ongoing pandemic. Also please note - we've added another session of our popular online course, Equanimity through the Storm. It begins May 8th and you can find more information here: https://www.ashtangadispatch.com/event/equanimity-thru-crisis/ We hope you’ve been enjoying these shorter broadcasts we’ve been offering this past month - bits of hope and inspiration from various sources as a way to offer support and perhaps some comfort through these trying times. And to remind you - you’re not alone. You have us. The Ashtanga Dispatch Podcast is edited, produced, + hosted by Peg Mulqueen + Meghan Powell. Music by Mark Pilley. Visit ashtangadispatch.com for more.

During these challenging times, we are here to support you. And so every Monday morning, we will try and bring you a message of hope and comfort. This week we bring you Roberto Lim from Vital Living Arts with the story of how Shiva got his blue throat along with the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra. We hope you enjoy. And because of the overwhelming interest, we have added another session of our online course: Equanimity Through the Storm for May. Please visit www.ashtangadispatch.com for more details. May you be healthy, safe, happy, and free - and always know that are loved.

During these challenging times, we are here to support you. And so every Monday morning, we will try and bring you a message of hope and comfort - perhaps a meditation, a chant, or inspiring words - like this morning's with Dena Kingsberg. Dena's words were recorded (on an iPhone) during one of her last practice mornings before the shala temporarily closed due to the pandemic. We hope you continue to take quiet moments for yourself, staying well and keeping faith during through these uncharted waters. And if you need us, we are here for you. Visit ashtangadispatch.com

During these challenging times, we are here to support you. Please visit ashtangadispatch.com to join us for a special program: Equanimity Through the Storm. We hope you take these few minutes to enjoy this metta meditation with Meghan Powell as a way to ground in loving-kindness - for yourself and for the world. May you be healthy, safe, happy, and know that you are loved by us.

These next episodes will be devoted to one story … Of how a community moves beyond the authoritarian Guru model, and away from the kind of hierarchical structures and rules of silence that have allowed for its members to be hurt, ostracized, and abused. It’s a story about learning from one another - and leaning on one another. One that shifts the focus from rules and dogma - to people and relationships; where leadership is shared and all voices, heard. Because we are the authors. And this is our story. One that begins today - with Kinship. All the voices you will hear in today's podcast - Erica Morton Magill, Greg Nardi, Pranidhi Varshney, Spiro Antonopoulos, and Kory Sheffer - participated in a weekend gathering in the California desert last December as part of a Kinship initiative. It’s a change of course from the historically hierarchical, authoritarian model that has defined the Ashtanga Yoga community. Again, if you want to be part of Kinship, please sign up at LAyoga.club/kinship Special thanks to Marc Pilley whose music you’ve been listening to. The song, Be with Me is from his latest album, Acorns, which you can download at arksong.net The Ashtanga Dispatch Yoga Podcast is written, edited, produced, and hosted today by me, Peg Mulqueen. The transcript for today's episode can be found on our website along with all links mentioned. Just visit ashtangadispatch.com Thanks for listening.

"Hierarchies are easy. That’s why we set them up. But the hierarchies have such a lack of resilience in response to rapid social change. And we're in a situation of rapid social change - in a profession that is seeing rapid changes." - Theo Wildcroft In today's episode, Dr. Theo Wildcroft talks about the identities and labels we attach to ourselves and our yoga practice and how we all benefit from moving from traditional linear models and towards more inclusive and horizontally organized networks. The Ashtanga Dispatch podcast is hosted, produced, and edited by me, Peg Mulqueen - along with Meghan Powell. Music is by Marc Pilley Visit www.ashtangadispatch.com for more about Theo including notes and links from today's show. And thanks for listening!

As one of today's most prolific explorers and mountaineers, Conrad Anker is a legend in the climbing world - though certainly not limited to it. Because Conrad has long been a source of inspiration for me. From his many summits (including Everest 3x and Meru) to his humanitarian work and activism - Conrad claims not to know anything about yoga philosophy, and yet his life says otherwise. In today's episode, Conrad talks to me about the necessity of risk, overcoming obstacles, facing fear, and getting older - as well as the responsibility we have as human beings to take care of each other and this world. (See? I told you he is a yogi - whether HE knows or not!) The Ashtanga Dispatch podcast is hosted, produced, and edited by me, Peg Mulqueen. Along with Meghan Powell. Music is by Marc Pilley Visit www.ashtangadispatch.com for more about Conrad including notes and links from today's show. And thanks for listening!

As an anatomy teacher and neuromuscular therapist - David has spent most of his career working with people in pain and helping them find a way out. And as the person who literally wrote the book on Yoga Anatomy, it makes sense that yoga students in particular - often with an injury or other physical issues - look to David for answers. At the same time, answers are something David seldom gives. Instead, he’d rather hand the power back to students - encouraging them to do their own exploring and experimentation: 1. Figure out what position makes it feel better relative to what body position makes it feel worse. So you know. 2. Give yourself permission to change the way you’re practicing so you can get closer to that position where it doesn’t hurt. Until you understand more, figure out more. 3. Once things calm down, start exploring even further and widdling things down Look for David's 3-D animated kinesiology course for anyone who wants to learn their muscles, functional movement, and how the asanas fit together. Visit https://3dmusclelab.com Ashtanga Dispatch is all about creating and supporting community - and this podcast would not be possible without the help of good friends like you who share our mission. Please visit ashtangadispatch.com/donate to learn ways you can help and contribute. The Ashtanga Dispatch Podcast is edited, produced, and hosted by Peg Mulqueen along with Meghan Powell. Music by Marc Pilley.

"Chanting has helped me become more comfortable with myself. And feeling the freedom to open up in a devotional sense, in an emotional sense. I think it’s really released a part of me that I kept tightly hidden - and I’ve become more comfortable with that. And that’s what we’re trying to do, become comfortable with ourselves, with who we are." Meet Meghan Powell, the other half of Ashtanga Dispatch and hear about her ongoing journey towards developing her own voice. You'll hear Meghan talk about her experience in Mysore, with her teacher, Dena Kingsburg, and why chanting mantras is her favorite practice of all. The Ashtanga Dispatch Podcast is a free download, made possible by listeners like you who offer their support. If you would like to help, please visit www.ashtangadispatch.com/donate This episode was edited and produced by Peg Mulqueen. Music by Marc Pilley.

Today's guests are hip-hop artist MC Yogi and the creator of the 10000 Buddhas project, Amanda Giacomini. MC and Amanda met at a teacher training at It’s Yoga in San Francisco back in 2000 and have been spent the past 20 years, spreading their love of yoga to the masses through their music and art, but also more intimately, in their Point Reyes studio they began as a young couple and still regularly teach today. In this episode, MC and Amanda talk about their relationship with the practice, their teachers (Larry Schultz and Dorothy Divack), and especially - each other. Because while MC may claim - love at first sight - their story is no mythical fairy tale. It’s intentional. A conscious choice to align their lives - together. Support for this podcast comes from listeners like you. Your gifts and donations are the only reason we can do this without ads and sponsors. So thank you. If you have within your means to help, please visit www.ashtangadispatch.com/donate - We appreciate all your help. As always, thanks for listening and sharing. We’ll be back next month with a brand new episode.

"When we come to that last breath in our life - what's most important?" Recorded on the eve of her 60th birthday, Eileen Hall is a woman who has been practicing for over 30 years, through breast cancer, a mastectomy, and menopause - and is certified to teach in both the methods of Iyengar and Ashtanga Yoga. Complete with anecdotal stories and insight, Eileen gets right to the heart of what it really means to practice yoga. You'll rarely find Eileen out there in the public sphere or even away from her home Shala in Sydney Australia. So this one truly is a rare and beautiful treat! This episode of Ashtanga Dispatch Podcast was written, edited, and produced by Peg Mulqueen, with guest host, Anthony Roberts. Music by Marc Pilley. Visit ashtangadispatch.com and join our online yoga community.

Today, I’m talking to Shanna Small, the founder of the Ashtanga Yoga Project and a teacher/student in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our subject is racism. Though not the kind of overt prejudices and discrimination that most of us think of - but a type of racism that is almost more destructive. Because it’s unconscious. It’s implicit. And it’s so deeply embedded within our institutional structures that we barely recognize it. And this includes our yoga culture - a world that is predominately white - and privileged white, at that. Now, as a black woman, there was a time Shanna did not want to call attention to the color of skin. You’ll hear her explain that from the time she was a little girl, she was taught that to be accepted in a white world, she must blend in, assimilate, and make others comfortable before she could show herself. And so for many years, Shanna did just that. But not now. Not anymore. Shanna wants you to see her color. And she wants you to see HER.

Meghan attended the 2019 Bali Ashtanga Yoga Conference and caught up with long-time teachers Dom Corigliano, Mark Robberds, Kathy Cooper, Scott Johnson, Radha, John Scott, and Chuck Miller - asking each the same question: What does yoga or practice mean for them? Each had a unique perspective not only in how they answered the question but reflected in how they teach as well. And yet, there were some very definite common themes: nature, family, and the process of change. This episode of the Ashtanga Dispatch Podcast was hosted by Meghan Powell, and edited and produced by Peg Mulqueen. Please support the online community by making a donation at www.ashtangadispatch.com Thank you.

In today's episode, teacher and author Gregor Maehle discusses the corruption of authority in everything from religion to politics - and suggests that if yoga wants to help heal that problem, then it must become a vehicle for dismantling such hierarchical structures, including its own. Perhaps more than in any other podcast to date, this episode with Gregor really had us examining what we believe and why we believe it. Which may have been exactly the idea. In fact, I get the feeling Gregor is constantly doing the same, of himself. Though questioning is different than doubt. Because Gregor does not doubt Patanjali's yoga. Not at all. But instead, introduces the question - is it Patanjali's yoga that we are actually practicing? It's a question only we can answer for ourselves. The Ashtanga Dispatch Podcast is edited, hosted, and produced by Peg Mulqueen along Meghan Powell - a small but dedicated, mother/daughter team. But it would not be possible without friends like you who generously support. If you would like to make a donation, please visit ashtangadispatch.com Thank you. We appreciate your support.

In this month's podcast episode, Dr. Monica Gauci discusses some of the more complex issues facing yoga students today - like how Ashtanga yoga is taught here in the west; the effects of age, injury, and life stages such as menopause; and the importance of listening and trusting our heart. The Ashtanga Dispatch Podcast is edited, hosted, and produced by Peg Mulqueen along Meghan Powell - a small but dedicated, mother/daughter team. But it would not be possible without friends like you who generously support. If you would like to make a donation, please visit ashtangadispatch.com Thank you. We appreciate your support.

If you want to feel better, healthier, be more resilient and clear, Eddie Stern, says the answer is quite simple: Yoga. In a world more and more divided, yoga may be one those rare and special subjects where we all agree – practicing yoga makes us feel good. And in today's episode as well as in his new book, One Simple Thing: A New Look at the Science of Yoga and How it Can Transform Your Life (due out March, 2019), Eddie combines his own experience with philosophy and science to explain why this one simple thing makes us all so happy. But that's not all we talk about ... Eddie also gives a rather impassioned explanation how the word, method, is often misused as a substitution for practice. Or the word, modifications, for options. Turns out Eddie isn't just a yogi and science geek - he's also a bit of a wordsmith as well. And finally, Eddie answers your questions about practicing as we get older - and as he's gotten older. The Ashtanga Dispatch podcast is edited and hosted by me Peg Mulqueen along with Meghan Powell. Chris Lucas is our producer. If you are enjoying these yoga chats, we hope you will take time a moment to help support by visiting www.ashtangadispatch.com

Can exploration in movement and other approaches to practice coexist within the Ashtanga yoga tradition? Teacher Mark Robberds, certainly hopes so. And in today's episode, Mark shares some really valuable information about movement - like how variety is critical for our physical development, and in Ashtanga in particular - a way to balance out some of the more extreme movements sometimes involved. But Mark also shared his feelings on a few more serious topics within the yoga community. Like the sexual abuse that took place in the practice room with Pattabhi Jois - and the whole debacle when Mark was temporarily stripped of his teaching certification after it was reported he was exploring different approaches to the practice. (As I type this, I am SMH for real). I hope you enjoy this last podcast of 2018 with Mark Robberds. As always, thank you for listening - and for all your support! The Ashtanga Dispatch Podcast is edited and hosted by Peg Mulqueen along with Meghan Powell. We are an incredibly small but dedicated mother-daughter team - and we bring each episode to you without any third-party advertisers. To keep these podcasts ad-free, please consider offering your support. Please visit www.ashtangadispatch.com to donate.

This is teacher, David Garrigues’ third time on as a guest on the podcast. David is someone who sees the yoga through the eyes of an artist - finding magic in the ordinary and painting the familiar into delightful new forms. Full of all the same passion, that same spark of enthusiasm that sets souls on fire - he also seemed different. Definitely more clear - and especially about his role in this world and as a teacher. In fact, when he says his whole life has been leading up to this point, I believe him. This is the process, he tells me. A process through practice. Thank you for your spending time, listening to the Ashtanga Dispatch Podcast. Our mission is to explore the yoga practice in mindful and insightful ways - far beyond the shapes we make on our mat. We are an incredibly small team - just my daughter Meghan and me - and we work hard to find inspiring individuals who make this practice come to life - and bring them to you. All without any third-party advertising or interruptions. So if you are enjoying these podcasts, we hope you will take time a moment to share or support your experience here. Like ... - Introduce your yoga friends and community on to the show. - Follow us on FB and IG, sharing with the hashtag #Ashtangadispatchpodcast. - Or subscribing to the podcast on iTunes, rating us and even taking the extra time to leave a review. And if you are in a position to help, please visit ashtangadispatch.com to make a donation in any amount. Trust me, it all helps. Thanks for listening and enjoy the interview. For more, please visit www.ashtangadispatch.com

Mary Taylor is a woman who has been consistently practicing Ashtanga yoga for over 30 years - through pregnancy, injury, and more recently, a debilitating illness. What’s more, Mary didn’t enter the yoga room as the star student, but rather, as she says - the stiff student. Yet where her body was not as flexible, the yoga and her teacher, were. And in today’s episode, you’ll hear Mary explain her understanding of the Ashtanga yoga method and how it’s worked for her. Of course, that’s only the beginning of our conversation. From there, Mary talks about the body’s holding pattern, especially in terms of trauma not fully processed - sharing within this, her own experiences with sexual abuse and how this manifested within her own body and psyche. Which explains why Mary was perhaps the first senior teacher within the Ashtanga yoga community to publicly acknowledge Pattabhi Jois previous sexual misconduct - even as she continues to hold love and gratitude for a teacher who changed her life and the lives of many. It was a brave and necessary dialogue to begin. But as you’ll hear Mary say, “I can’t be part of a world anymore where women can’t talk about abuses they feel and abuses they experienced. I can’t do that anymore. Because it almost killed me.” The Ashtanga Dispatch Podcast is edited and hosted by Peg Mulqueen, along with Meghan Powell. The show is produced by Chris Lucas. Please visit www.ashtangadispatch.com to learn more about this episode and others.

Richard Freeman has been a student of yoga since 1968, beginning in the Buddhist Zen tradition and then later studying both the Iyengar and Ashtanga Vinyasa methods of yoga. Which may explain one of the reasons Richard can be notorious for dodging questions that beg for ONE answer. Because, as he says, “It’s sometimes more complex than that.” Though by sometimes, I believe he means ALL the time. You see, this knowing is a trap according to Richard. “All of a sudden, we understand something and at that point, we think we got it … but what we got or what we’re taking away is just this one little point of view of something. So look again. It’s much deeper.” Richard tells us to instead, be like the curious child, always asking, why? And then, look again. Or in the case of this podcast, listen again. Because no doubt, with so many fascinating nuggets and stories, layered throughout - this is one episode, you will want to come back to, again and again. This episode of the Ashtanga Dispatch Podcast was edited and hosted by Peg Mulqueen along with Meghan Powell, and Chris Lucas as producer. Please visit www.ashtangadispatch.com for more episodes.

Ever wonder what Plato and Patanjali have in common? Yeah, me neither actually! But Ty Landrum finds the the intersection of the two fascinating and quite honestly, his enthusiasm was enough to get me a bit excited as well. You see, philosophy in academia tends to be more an exercise of the mind whereas yoga as philosophy is almost pure experiential. Or that's that way it has always felt to me. But Ty manages to put a spin on both in today's episode. The Ashtanga Dispatch podcast is edited and produced by Chris Lucas and hosted by Peg Mulqueen. Opening chant led, by Saraswathi Jois, is from a donation-based led primary series featuring teachers from around the world to benefit the children who have been separated from their families at the U.S. border. Find this and more at www.ashtangadispatch.com