Ashtanga Dispatch Podcast

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. 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

The following episode of the Ashtanga Dispatch Podcast is a recording from Stillpoint Yoga's weekend Spring Gathering this past May. The annual event is the brainchild of Scott Johnson who has made it a bit of a personal mission to provide space and opportunity for students and teachers alike to come together in more than just practice - but in conversation also. That we may all learn from each other and grow together. This year's focus spanned the following topics: power, lineage, and how this method is currently shared. Many of the conversations had over the weekend were intense and deeply personal. For this reason, we chose to protect the intimacy of the group and the privacy of individuals by not broadcasting the entire weekend. However, the following excerpt is from Day 2's panel discussion, featuring Scott, Greg Nardi, and me as we fielded questions submitted through the Ashtanga Dispatch Podcast group on Facebook. Specifically, the role of social media, the importance of just one teacher, and the structure of a healthy teacher/student relationship. The Ashtanga Dispatch Podcast is edited and produced by Chris Lucas and hosted by me, Peg Mulqueen. Opening chant by Greg Nardi from the Ashtanga Dispatch Magazine #2 in Digital. Also thanks to good friends who support this podcast over at Patreon who support this show through their monthly donations. If you would like to join them, please visit Patreon.com/ashtangadispatch - Thank you!

This episode of the Ashtanga Dispatch Podcast is a prerecorded panel discussion featuring Tim Feldmann, (Miami Life Center), Richard Freeman and Mary Taylor (Boulder, Colorado), Manju Jois (Encinitas, CA), Dena Kingsberg (Byron Bay, Australia), David Swenson (Austin, TX), and as moderator, Jessica Walden (San Diego, CA). The audio is courtesy of the Ashtanga Yoga Confluence, Inc. For more about the 2018 Ashtanga Yoga Confluence, visit Ashtanga Dispatch’s recap of this year’s event. https://www.ashtangadispatch.com/ashtanga-yoga-confluence-2018 The Ashtanga Dispatch podcast is edited and produced by Chris Lucas with host, Peg Mulqueen.

Jen Rene is a teacher I’ve wanted you to meet for a very long time - and mostly because I’m afraid you might never otherwise get the chance. You see, Jen is one of those no-nonsense, incredibly functional teachers who are much more focused on keeping practice real than dazzle you with fancy tricks. Of course, the irony is - this is Jen’s real magic. She’s practical. She’s honest. And she’s not afraid to get messy. I’ll warn you, Jen doesn’t have a filter. She’s pretty straightforward and quite frankly, I find this refreshing. Because Jen’s not in this for likes, sponors, and notoriety. Which can feel kind of rare these days. In fact, in today’s podcast, we spoke pretty frankly about the struggle to keep the yoga real - including the challenges we both face both online and in our own practice. If you want to learn more about Jen (and I believe you will!) visit her website at www.jenrene.com

During a weekend in New York just before Christmas, I had the amazing opportunity to catch up with renowned Ashtanga yoga teacher, Eddie Stern and practice at his shala, the Brooklyn Yoga Club. Lots to learn in this latest episode of our yoga podcast - which could certainly feel, at times, more like a science lesson than an interview. Listen as Eddie describes the vagus nerve, an information pathway for a lot of things that are really important for the yogis. Eddie explains that we are an entire biological mechanism of complementary systems, and so our practice isn’t based on striving and pushing - but in seeking a normal, every-day balance and harmony so we can live a healthier, happier life. And why the yoga, among other things - a true scientific method. The Ashtanga Dispatch Podcast is edited and produced by Chris Lucas and hosted by me, Peg Mulqueen. Opening chant is by Greg Nardi from Ashtanga Yoga Worldwide. Thanks to good friends who support this podcast over at Patreon who support this show through their monthly donations. If you would like to join them, please visit Patreon.com/ashtangadispatch – Thank you!

Finding the spiritual side of a physical practice and discussing the gender bias that exists - even in yoga - are just a few of the topics covered in this episode of the Ashtanga Dispatch Podcast with today's guest, Harmony Slater. The Ashtanga Dispatch Podcast is produced and edited by Chris Lucas, and hosted by Peg Mulqueen.

Philippa Asher is a certified Ashtanga yoga teacher and one of the few female students who has completed the Advanced B series. As impressive as all that is, that’s not really the reason I asked her to come on the Ashtanga Dispatch Podcast. I had read a piece she wrote called Musings About an Ashtanga Asana Practice from 20-something to 40-something. And in there, Philippa talked quite pointedly about challenges and issues of her own - including her own recklessness  as well as fertility issues - and I just was struck by how brave and forthcoming she was with her experience. I can’t tell you how rare it is to chat with someone - especially for the first time - who is willing to be that open and therefore that vulnerable. As you will hear her say, It’s not been an easy ride. And that’s precisely why she does choose to put her self and her story out there - for others who also haven’t had an easy ride. The Ashtanga Dispatch Podcast is edited and produced by Chris Lucas - and hosted by Peg Mulqueen. If you love this show and would like to help support, please visit Patreon.com/ashtangadispatch - Thank you!

Kino MacGregor is one of the most celebrated Ashtanga yoga teachers in the world with over a million followers now on Instagram. And though it would be easy to chalk up her fame to a winning mixture of beauty, charm, and physical skill - you’d then be missing the REAL reason Kino is who she is and where she is. As the author of 4 books, including her most recent, The Yogi Assignment, a co-creater of Om Stars, an online channel for yogis, producer of six videos, and one of a select group of teachers certified to teach Ashtanga by Pattabhi Jois, Kino is like a true force of nature. Smart, driven, and incredibly disciplined, Kino’s success is by no accident. This isn’t the first time I’ve interviewed Kino, either. So I already know how smart and driven she is. And I’ll admit, she can also be somewhat guarded and perhaps with good reason. But not this time. In fact, in today’s episode of the Ashtanga Dispatch podcast, Kino opens up about her personal obstacles and struggles in both her practice and in her marriage. And in a rare, candid moment - Kino responds to the critics who say videos are no way to learn Ashtanga. Stay tuned after our interview for a very special offer from Kino to try out her new Om Stars channel, as well as exciting news from Ashtanga Dispatch. This episode of the Ashtanga Dispatch podcast was edited and produced by Chris Lucas - and hosted by me, Peg Mulqueen. Thank you to our good friends who support this podcast over at Patreon. If you’d like to join them, please visit patreon.com/asthangadispatch

Well, the irony for me is, the more I practice and the more I do these interviews, the more questions I end up having! And today’s episode with certified Ashtanga yoga teacher, Mark Darby - or Darby, as he tells me to call him - is no exception. Darby was first introduced to Ashtanga yoga with Pattabhi Jois - Guruji - in Mysore in 1979. You do the math - but lets just say Darby has been practicing and teaching for a very, very long time. Lucky for us, I got the chance to catch up with Darby for practice and this interview his very last week teaching morning Mysore in Montreal. If I had any questions prepared for our interview, they all went out the window. So if I sound a little tongue-tied at times, it’s only because I’m not sure I was able to form words around what I had just experienced in the practice room before the interview. He stops me in my very first sun salutation having me straighten my legs and fold over his fist. “Dantian” he tells me. Look for Dantian. But as I fold over Darby’s closed hand below my navel, something else catches my attention. It’s his feet. There are individual letters below each of his 10 toes: S-P-R-E-A-D-T-O-E-S He will tell me later, he’s thinking of having this tattooed on his two feet. Then I come to the floor and instead of binding in my seated postures to pull myself forward in the folds, Darby has me specifically not bind and push away instead. Curious yet? I hope so! Because I think you’re going to really have fun listening to this one. And afterwards, you can an take all your questions and YOU to Costa Rica to spend time with Darby where he and his wife Joanne, will continue to teach. Visit their website, sattvayogashala.com to start planning. This episode of the Ashtanga Dispatch podcast was edited and produced by Chris Lucas - and hosted by me, Peg Mulqueen. This show is made possible by each and every one of you listening right now. Ashtanga Dispatch wouldn’t be possible without YOU! And also our good friends who support us through Patreon.com. Thanks to their contributions, we are able to keep this podcast going - ad-free. If you’d like to join them in supporting the show, please visit patreon.com/ashtangadispatch. Enjoy the rest of your summer and see you again in the fall with Kino MacGregor and Eddie Stern to start us off!

We’re in Mysore, India and waiting to be ushered into the shala for chanting class. It’s hot as hell standing outside that afternoon, That's when I first see her - Laruga Glaser. I’m a hot, sweaty mess - while she’s as stunning as every Instagram post I’ve seen of hers. And I’m in awe. Of course, not just she glows in a different way than I am at that moment … but also because it’s odd to see a teacher of her notoriety at chanting class. First of all, they are held in the heat of the afternoon but also, they’ve been there and done that a hundred times over. But there's Laruga, waiting in blazing hot sun for the door to open and class to start - just like all the rest of us. And that’s exactly why I love her. She’s real and relatable ad keeps the yoga the same way. Genuine and completely down-to-earth, I know then that Laruga Glaser would be just the kind of person you and I would enjoy getting to know better.

As much as I hate to admit it, pain has a lot to teach us. Maybe that's why my next guest, Tim Feldmann, is such a great teacher - because he's certainly had his fair share to deal with. You see, Tim began practicing yoga after a terrible accident many years ago, left him nearly unable to walk again. Injuries sustained such as those may heal, but they don't always go away and instead, tend to reappear in various forms and struggles. These days, Tim is dealing with his wrist and at the time we talked, was still forced to wear the soft cast he'd been wearing even since the last time I'd seen him, many months before. In any case, Tim will tell you, pain is inevitable. For all of us. The Ashtanga Dispatch podcast is edited and produced by Chris Lucas and hosted by Peg Mulqueen.

Sharath Jois. Grandson of the legendary Sri K. Pattabhi Jois ... son of Saraswathi Jois ... director of the KPJAY Institute ... and the current holder of our lineage. And yet, if there's one thing I have learned as his student it's this: Sharath would not want this podcast to be about him. It's about the yoga. For Sharath, it's always about the yoga. "Yoga is the superstar. Not me." But he is pretty special. And about as generous, wise, devoted, and kind as ever a teacher should be. Or rather, a Guru. Because Sharath is much, much more than just a teacher. He's truly a living example of what this yoga means. ****** Finally, a thank you to all of you who are supporting our show through Patreon. Remember, this podcast was recorded in India - amidst blaring horns, generators, barking dogs, and a whole cacophony of other sounds. Because of YOU, we were able to upgrade our editing software which made all the difference! So THANK YOU! If you want to support the show, go to http://patreon.com/ashtangadispatch and get some early previews, access to our community slack channel and more!

Today is January 20, 2017 - Inauguration day. And while part of me is relieved to be out of the country at the moment, another part of me is disappointed not to be there with you. This election has been like no other I've ever been a part. We are a country divided and that's scary. And so to process some of this, I turned to Dr. Carol Horton, a former political science professor turned and yoga teacher. Carol has a strong voice and she’s not afraid to use it. But she also has a wise voice, a voice of compassion and reason. I began this conversation with Carol feeling hopeless - and I came away feeling inspired and hopeful. Give a listen and remember, we are all in this together. The Ashtanga Dispatch Podcast is edited and produced by Chris Lucas and hosted by me, Peg Mulqueen.

I remember how I came to hear of Cathy Louise Broda of Purple Yoga in Hawaii. First, a listener from Chicago wrote me an email asking me to interview Cathy. She said she’d just gotten back from one of her retreats and was just really inspired. I didn’t know Cathy but I let the student know I’d certainly try. And I would’ve too if Cathy herself didn’t reach out to me before I even had a chance. Apparently she read a blog I wrote on my struggle with menopause and was so moved, she called Christine Hoar to get my information and next thing I know, I have an email from Cathy - just a few weeks after being asked to track her down. The universe is funny like that, right? Like just in case I didn’t get the message the first time …. Talking with Cathy helped. As did talking with other women, like Christine Hoar. And I hope this chats as helpful for many of you too!

A special gift from Harmony Slater and Ashtanga Dispatch: A Loving Kindness Meditation to begin the new year.