Welcome to Episode 173: "Not Everyone's Teacher — And That's More Than Okay" with Host Sandy Raper.
Summary:
In this episode, reflecting on life's turning points, Sandy encourages listeners to embrace change and trust the unfolding journey, emphasizing the potential in transitions.
Sandy shares and discusses the importance of creating an authentic and human experience in teaching yoga, emphasizing the role of a teacher as a facilitator rather than a performer.
Key Takeaways:
Teaching is about inviting others into the freedom to be themselves. Balance is a daily act of grace, not a destination. Embrace transitions as opportunities for growth and expansion. Authenticity and clarity are key in both teaching and living with purpose.
Reflect on what keeps bringing you back to your practice and consider how you can expand beyond your current limitations.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:
200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training - COMING January 2026
Order Sandy's new book:
Contact Sandy
Welcome to Episode 172: "Get it Together: This One’s for the Yoga Teachers Who Feel All Over the Place" with Host Sandy Raper.
Summary:
In this episode, Sandy discusses the multifaceted role of a yoga teacher, emphasizing the importance of self-care, preparation, and mindset. She shares three key strategies for yoga teachers to stay organized and grounded: preparation and planning, prioritizing health and well-being, and cultivating a positive mindset.
Takeaways:
Timestamps:
00:00 The Essence of Yoga Teaching
07:13 Strategies for Success
16:30 Health and Well-being as a Priority
20:40 Self-Leadership and Mindset
Keywords:
yoga teaching, self-care, health and wellness, teaching strategies, yoga teacher training, personal practice, energy exchange, confidence in teaching, burnout prevention, yoga preparation
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:
Sequencing Structure/Framework Referenced in Episode: The Narrative™ Sequencing Tool: Flashcards & Video Practice Bundle
NEW ONLINE COURSE! Functional Yoga Anatomy Essentials
Welcome to Episode 171: Less is More: Let Go of Over-Cueing with Host Sandy Raper.
Summary:
In this episode, Sandy explores the transformative power of yoga teacher training, emphasizing the importance of fostering autonomy and self-trust in students. She discusses the pitfalls of over-queuing and rigid instruction, advocating for a teaching style that encourages exploration and personal connection to the practice. By creating space for silence and self-discovery, teachers can help students cultivate a deeper relationship with their yoga practice, moving beyond mere performance to embodying the essence of yoga.
Episode Highlights:
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES & SHARED LINKS:
**FREE 200-Hour Hybrid Yoga Teacher Training Informational Meeting, Wednesday, April 16th, 12:00-1:00 pm EST ** Registration Link
NEW ONLINE COURSE! Functional Yoga Anatomy Essentials
Order Sandy's new book:
Welcome to Episode 170: "Anatomy in Action: 10 Strategies to Elevate Your Teaching" with Host Sandy Raper.
Summary:
In this episode, Sandy discusses the importance of integrating anatomical awareness into yoga teaching. She shares ten practical strategies for yoga teachers to enhance their classes, focusing on body awareness, functional movement, and effective communication.
Episode Takeaways:
RESOURCES:
NEW ONLINE COURSE! Functional Yoga Anatomy Essentials
Order Sandy's new book:
Welcome to Episode 169: "Be THAT Teacher" with Host Sandy Raper
Summary:
In this episode of the Beyond Yoga Teacher Training Podcast, Sandy explores the essence of being a great yoga teacher, emphasizing the importance of teaching from personal experience, continuous growth, and focusing on what truly matters in yoga practice.
Takeaways:
- Being a great yoga teacher goes beyond mastering poses.
- Teaching from personal experience enhances relatability.
- Authenticity builds trust with students.
- Continuous learning is essential for impactful teaching.
- Teaching what you need to learn fosters growth.
- Yoga is about guiding students to meaningful experiences.
- Intentionality in teaching shapes student experiences.
- Vulnerability in teaching is a strength, not a weakness.
- The impact of a teacher extends beyond the classroom.
- Reflecting on your teaching journey is crucial for growth.
Episode Highlights:
00:00 The Essence of a Great Yoga Teacher
03:39 Three Key Pillars of Impactful Teaching
10:31 Teaching from Personal Experience
19:09 Focusing on What Matters Most
RESOURCES:
Order Sandy's new book:
Welcome to Episode 168: "Connection Before Correction: Seeking First to Understand" with Host Sandy Raper.
In this episode, Sandy discusses the significance of listening and understanding in communication. She emphasizes the importance of a 'Connection-First' approach, which prioritizes empathy and understanding before offering feedback. Sandy shares strategies for fostering connection, such as active listening, curiosity, and collaborative problem-solving, to create a supportive environment for growth and learning.
Takeaways:
- Active listening is crucial before offering feedback.
- Understanding context can transform interactions.
- A Connection-First approach builds trust.
- Feedback should be constructive, not critical.
- Active listening helps in understanding intentions.
- Curiosity over judgment fosters better communication.
- Use positive reinforcement before corrections.
- Collaborative problem-solving enhances learning.
- Mental notes can improve teaching effectiveness.
- Empathy is key in personal and professional relationships.
Episode Highlights:
00:00 The Importance of Listening and Understanding
03:29 The Connection -First Approach
06:50 Strategies for Prioritizing Connection
10:48 Real-Life Applications of Connection First
RESOURCES:
Episode 75: A Powerful Tool of Refinement for a Yoga Teacher
Order Sandy's new book:
Welcome to Episode 167: "Rooted in Purpose: Finding Your Why as a Yoga Teacher" with Host Sandy Raper
Summary:
In this episode, Sandy emphasizes the importance of understanding your 'why' in the context of yoga teaching. She discusses how knowing your purpose can enhance your teaching experience, foster resilience, and create meaningful connections with students. Sandy provides strategies and reflection questions to help listeners uncover their motivations for practicing and teaching yoga, encouraging a deeper exploration of their personal journeys.
Takeaways:
- Knowing your why shapes your experience in life.
- Clarity in purpose brings authenticity to teaching.
- Your why influences how you show up for students.
- Teaching yoga is about connection and growth.
- A well-defined 'why' enhances the teaching experience.
- Resilience in teaching comes from understanding your purpose.
- Reflection on your journey is key to discovering your why.
- Teaching is about holding space for others.
- Your purpose evolves as you grow as a teacher.
- Use reflection prompts to guide your exploration of purpose.
Episode Highlights:
00:00 Understanding Your Why in Yoga
05:50 The Importance of Clarity in Teaching
09:29 Strategies for Discovering Your Purpose
11:57 Guided Reflection on Your Journey
Keywords:
yoga, teaching, purpose, clarity, personal growth, yoga teacher training, mindfulness, self-discovery, resilience, community
RESOURCES
Begins January 2025:
200-hour AND 300-hour Online Yoga Teacher Training
Join the Beyond Yoga Teacher Training Newsletter List
Order Sandy's new book:
Welcome to Episode 166: "The Power to Pivot: 10 Steps to Embrace Change and Thrive" with Host Sandy Raper
Summary:
In this episode, Sandy shares her personal journey of loss and transformation, highlighting the importance of pivoting in life. She discusses the skills necessary for effective pivoting, including emotional resilience, decision-making, and self-awareness. Sandy emphasizes the need to embrace change and adapt to new circumstances, providing actionable strategies for listeners to cultivate these skills in their own lives. The conversation concludes with resources for further growth and development in the practice of yoga and personal fulfillment.
Takeaways:
1. Life can change unexpectedly, prompting a need for adaptation.
2. Loss can serve as a catalyst for new beginnings.
3. Pivoting is an essential skill for personal and professional growth.
4. Emotional resilience helps navigate the highs and lows of change.
5. Accountability is crucial for staying committed to growth.
6. Decision-making under pressure is a valuable skill to develop.
7. Strategic thinking ensures that pivots align with long-term goals.
8. Networking opens doors to new opportunities and support.
9. Time management is essential when juggling multiple priorities.
10. Confidence and self-belief are key to navigating the unknown.
Keywords:
yoga, pivoting, resilience, personal growth, emotional intelligence, change management, mindfulness, teaching, self-awareness, life skills
REFERENCES & RESOURCES
Episode 136: "Become an Agent of Change"
Registration Open! Begins January 2025
200-hour AND 300-hour Online Yoga Teacher Training:
Join the Beyond Yoga Teacher Training Newsletter List
Order Sandy's new book:
Welcome to Episode 165: "Earning Trust: How Credibility Shapers Your Impact as a Yoga Teacher" with Host Sandy Raper.
In this episode, Sandy explores the essential components of credibility and confidence for yoga teachers. She discusses how credibility is built through knowledge, professionalism, authenticity, and the ability to connect with students.
Episode Highlights:
06:29 Building Credibility as a Yoga Teacher
08:34 Expertise and Knowledge: Going Beyond Knowing
11:52 Authenticity: Living the Values of Yoga
15:47 Teaching Experience and Education: Deepening Credibility
19:15 Reputation: The Power of Word of Mouth
25:16 The Impact of Confidence and Credibility
Takeaways:
Credibility as a yoga teacher is earned through knowledge, professionalism, and authenticity.
Confidence enables teachers to lead with authority and inspire trust.
Authenticity in teaching fosters a deeper connection with students.
Experience and ongoing education enhance a teacher's credibility.
Positive feedback and word-of-mouth recommendations are powerful validators of a teacher's skill.
A respected reputation establishes trust and respect within the community.
Teaching is an evolving journey that requires continual refinement.
Students are more likely to trust personal recommendations over advertisements.
Confidence allows teachers to communicate effectively and handle challenges.
The attributes teachers reflect influence their students' experiences.
Begins January 2025!
200-hour AND 300-hour Online Yoga Teacher Training:
Join the Beyond Yoga Teacher Training Newsletter List
Welcome to Episode 166: The Secret Sauce: Ingredients for an Exceptional Yoga Teacher Training" with Host Sandy Raper.
In this episode, Sandy discusses the importance of choosing the right yoga teacher training program and the key ingredients that make a training exceptional. Sandy shares insights on the significance of choosing the right training format, researching the training staff, the teaching practicum's role, sequencing framework importance, and the unique SEVA Teaching Project that has set trainees up for success within her training programs.
TAKEAWAYS:
- 2025 is a pivotal year for yoga teacher training.
- Choosing the right training program is crucial for success.
- Exceptional training includes diverse formats and experienced lead teachers.
- Teaching practicum is essential for building confidence.
- A solid framework for sequencing is vital for sustaining effective teaching.
- Real-time teaching experiences enhance learning.
- Researching training staff is important for compatibility.
- Investing in training is an investment in your future.
- Connection and community are vital in the training process.
Keywords:
yoga teacher training, online yoga training, yoga education, yoga community, teacher training program, yoga sequencing, yoga practicum, yoga curriculum
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:
2025 Yoga Teacher Training with Sandy:
New! Online 200-hour Foundational Yoga Teacher Training
New! Online 300-hour Advanced Yoga Teacher Training
Join the Beyond Yoga Teacher Training Newsletter List
Order Sandy's new book:
Welcome to Episode 164: Finding Joy in Life’s Big and Small Moments with Host Sandy Raper.
In this episode, Sandy shares insight into the significance of celebrations in our lives. She emphasizes that celebrations are not just for extraordinary achievements but also for the small moments that contribute to our emotional well-being and social connections.
Episode Highlights:
06:56 The Importance of Celebrations in Our Lives
07:22 Creating Good Memories Through Celebrations
12:45 Influencing Others in a Positive Way Through Celebrations
13:44 Creating Milestone Markers in Life Through Celebrations
15:13 Finding Joy and Gratitude in Celebrations
18:37 Enhancing Life Satisfaction Through Celebrations
Takeaways
- Celebrations are essential for emotional well-being.
- Creating good memories is a key reason to celebrate.
- Celebrations positively influence others and strengthen relationships.
- Milestone markers in life provide purpose and meaning.
- Joy is a lasting state of being, not just an emotion.
- Celebrations nurture gratitude and appreciation for life.
- Small celebrations contribute to a greater sense of joy.
- Life's ups and downs are balanced by celebrations.
- Celebrating together fosters a sense of community.
- Memories from celebrations become a legacy we carry.
Keywords: celebrations, emotional well-being, memories, joy, milestones, relationships, gratitude, life events, yoga, community
RESOURCES
2025 Yoga Teacher Training with Sandy:
New! Online 200-hour Foundational Yoga Teacher Training
New! Online 300-hour Advanced Yoga Teacher Training
Join the Beyond Yoga Teacher Training Newsletter List
Order Sandy's new book:
Welcome to Episode 163: "Stop Trying So Hard to Be a Yoga Teacher" with Host Sandy Raper.
In this episode, Sandy discusses the common pitfall of overthinking the concept of being a yoga teacher and the importance of embracing authenticity.
HIGHLIGHTS & TAKEAWAYS:
07:45 Embracing Authenticity and Letting Go of Perfection
10:13 Simplifying and Trusting Your Training
12:54 Developing Intuitive Teaching Skills
16:13 Embracing Imperfection and Being Present
18:19 The Teachings of Yoga Come from a Greater Source
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:
Join the Beyond Yoga Teacher Training Newsletter List
Welcome to Episode 162: "Feeling Caught Up vs. Being Caught Up" with Host Sandy Raper. In this episode, Sandy reflects on the concept of feeling caught up versus being caught up. Sandy provides strategies for finding balance between the two states and emphasizes the importance of holistic well-being and the practice of yoga in managing responsibilities.
Episode Reference:
Episode 76: "5 Keystone Habits for Yoga Teachers"
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:
Join the Beyond Yoga Teacher Training Newsletter List
Welcome to Episode 161: 'Not All Yoga Teacher Trainings Are Created Equal" REWIND Episode. In this episode, Host Sandy Raper revisits, or rewinds the show to 2023, sharing Episode 122, one of the B.Y.T.T. Podcast's Top 10 Rankings.
Episode Highlights:
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:
Join the Beyond Yoga Teacher Training Newsletter List
Order Sandy's new book:
Welcome to Episode 160: Beware: The Allure of Chasing Credentials
In this episode, Sandy discusses the allure of chasing credentials in the yoga teaching world. She highlights the downsides of constantly seeking certifications, such as financial strain and burnout.
Takeaways:
- Constantly seeking new certifications can lead to financial strain and burnout.
- Practical experience and application are crucial for building confidence and developing a personal teaching style.
- Assess your current skills and set practical goals for your teaching practice.
- Follow your passions in self-study and learning to expand your teaching opportunities.
- Find a balance between acquiring new credentials and applying existing knowledge.
Resources:
Join the Beyond Yoga Teacher Training Newsletter List
Welcome to Episode 159: Heart & Soul: The Vital Role of Emotional Intelligence in Yoga
In this episode, Host Sandy Raper discusses the importance of emotional intelligence (EI) and its connection to the practice of yoga. She breaks down the five components of EI: self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills. Sandy emphasizes the significance of actively listening and understanding emotions, both in oneself and in others.
Episode Highlights:
11:21: Introduction to Emotional Intelligence in Yoga
13:27: The Five Components of Emotional Intelligence
21:07: Accountability and Living from the Inside Out
25:23: Empathy and Compassion
30:10: Social Skills and Effective Communication
33:28 Active Listening and Constructive Conflict Resolution
37:12 Emotional Intelligence and Effective Decision Making
RESOURCES
Welcome to Episode 158: "The Quiet Revolution: Gentle is the New Advanced" with Special Guest J. Brown and Host Sandy Raper.
Highlights:
- Concept of a quiet revolution in yoga practice and the challenges of teaching a more mindful approach.
- The concept of 'gentle is the new advanced' challenges traditional notions of yoga practice.
- The distinction between teaching an experience and teaching individuals how to practice.
- The complexity of humanity and the diverse experiences that individuals bring to a yoga class, emphasizing the role of yoga in providing a space for connection and growth.
Connect with J. Brown: www.jbrownyoga.com
Join the Beyond Yoga Teacher Training Newsletter List
Interested in training with Sandy? Check out her courses and teacher training.
Welcome to Episode 157: "Closing Doors and Making Space for Thriving" with Special Guest and Mentee Austeen Heeney
In this conversation, Sandy and Austeen discuss their journey as yoga teachers and the evolving nature of their 'why'. Their conversation explores the important balance between the roles of being a student and a yoga teacher, as well as the impact of mentorship in these roles.
Austeen reflects on the obstacles she faced as an entrepreneur and studio owner, including learning about business, overcoming limiting beliefs around money, and navigating difficult conversations. Despite these challenges, she found moments of thriving and growth.
03:24: Balancing the Roles of Student and Teacher
10:33: The Journey from Student to Teacher
28:46: Closing Doors and Making Space for Thriving
32:21: The Power of Mentorship in the Yoga Teaching Journey
35:00: Developing Trust Within Oneself
47:08: Creating an Inner Sanctuary Through Movement Practices and Workshops
Interested in training with Sandy to become a yoga teacher?
Welcome to Episode 156: "Authenticity Building Community" with Special Guest Kat Harmon.
As a part of a collection of special guest episodes to celebrate the recent debut of Host Sandy Raper's new book, Teaching From the Heart: Lessons on Developing Character, Confidence, and Leadership as a Yoga Teacher, Sandy welcomes guest, Kat Harmon, to the BYTT Podcast.
Kat Harmon is the visionary behind the empowering brand "Love the Shit out of Yourself" and the driving force behind Sol Harmony Fest, a transformative 3-day holistic healing arts festival. She infuses her yoga and embodiment practices with a passion for self-love and self-awareness. Kat utilizes awareness and nervous system support to help individuals rewrite self-defeating patterns and shed outdated defense mechanisms, allowing them to reconnect with their most authentic selves. Over her extensive 20+ years of teaching, Kat's approach emphasizes laughter and thinking outside the box, fostering deep connections and personal growth.
Connect with Kat Harmon: www.lovetheshitoutofyourself.com
Episode Highlights:
03:19: The Journey of Building Community
04:20: Finding Your Path as a Yoga Teacher
09:22: Empowering Teachers to Be Themselves
10:58: Being Curious and Meeting People Where They Are
12:19: The Humanity and Relational Aspect of Teaching
13:09: Service and Connection as Driving Forces
14:25: Avoiding Replication and Ego-Driven Community Building
20:57: Encouraging Students to Build Community
22:12: Embracing the Unfolding Process
23:20: Overcoming Limitations and Attachment to Outcomes
25:27: Expanding Community and Balancing Ego
28:24: Building Community with Authenticity and Joy
33:03: Expanding Community Offerings
Interested in training with Sandy to become a yoga teacher?
Join the Beyond Yoga Teacher Training Newsletter List
Welcome to Episode 155: "Moving Away from Pose-Focused Teaching" with Special Guest Mary Richards
As a part of a collection of special guest episodes to celebrate the recent debut of Host Sandy Raper's new book, Teaching From the Heart: Lessons on Developing Character, Confidence, and Leadership as a Yoga Teacher, Sandy welcomes guest, Mary Richards, back to the BYTT Podcast.
Check out Mary's past episode on the BYTT Podcast:
Episode 51: Organizing into Expansion with Mary Richards
Connect with Mary Richards: www.yogawithmaryrichards.com
Book: Teach People, Not Poses by Mary Richards
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:
01:58: Inspiration Behind the Book: Teaching People, Not Poses
03:02: Chapter 1: Yoga Curious
08:0:6 Becoming Yoga Ready
23:24: Moving Away from Rigidity and Routine in Teaching
28:07: The Courage and Willingness to See Individual Expressions
29:11: Encouraging Individuality in Yoga Practice
31:47: Discovering Personal Expression in Asana
33:49: Changing the Narrative as Yoga Teachers
34:57: Shifting from Predictability to Curiosity
39:09: Recognizing Structure and Form in Asana
39:58: Anatomy as a Tool for Empowering Students
42:03: The Need for Functional Movement in Yoga
44:35: The Purpose of Asana and the Role of the Teacher
RESOURCES
Interested in training with Sandy to become a yoga teacher?
Join the Beyond Yoga Teacher Training Newsletter List
