In this episode of the Full-Time Yoga Teacher Podcast, Reika sits down with Steve Szakal, an ultra runner, full-time yoga teacher, to explore the powerful intersection of yoga and endurance running.
Steve shares how he went from feeling unhealthy and burnt out from years of manual labor to transforming his life through running and hot yoga. What started with a two-mile run grew into a passion for marathons, ultras, and a dedicated yoga practice. Along the way, Steve discovered how yoga philosophy, and mindfulness deeply inform his running, and vice versa.
Together, they discuss the physical and mental challenges of ultra running, and the intersection of ultra running and yoga history and philosophy. Steve also reflects on his transition to full-time yoga teaching, the role of Ghosh Yoga and his teachers in shaping his path, and how living simply allows him to pursue both passions with joy and clarity.
Whether you’re a yoga teacher, a runner, or someone curious about how two seemingly different disciplines complement one another, this conversation is filled with wisdom and inspiration.
Connect with Steve:
Instagram: @run2805project
Email: Szakal2805@hotmail.com
Podcasts that Steve was a guest on:
Reika's Resources: