Listen to Toddcast with Kelly for FREE Here

Kelly Smith is a prominent meditation and yoga instructor based in the Twin Cities, Minneapolis. She is the founder of Yoga for You Online, an innovative online yoga and meditation school offering a range of classes and teacher training. Kelly is also the creator and host of two popular podcasts, “Mindful in Minutes” and “Meditation Mama.” Besides her online presence, Kelly has been instrumental in introducing meditation practices to broader audiences through workshops, YouTube videos, and a series of books like “You Are Not Your Thoughts.”

Visit Kelly on her website: https://www.yogaforyouonline.com/
Follow her on IG: https://www.instagram.com/yogaforyouonline/?hl=en
Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mindfulinminutes

Key Takeaways:

• Kelly Smith offers a unique approach to meditation, utilizing guided imagery and making it accessible for beginners through short, impactful sessions.
• The episode underscores the importance of balancing secular and spiritual elements in meditation practice to make it inclusive and resonate with diverse belief systems.
• Kelly’s personal journey with ADHD and how she utilizes meditation and other strategies to manage symptoms, showcasing the adaptability of mindfulness practices.

Meditation’s Modern Role: Bridging Secular and Spiritual Practices for Mental Clarity and Well-being

Key Themes from Our Conversation

• Understanding the importance and application of both secular and spiritually inclined meditation practices.
• Addressing the intersection between mental health needs and meditation as a complementary tool.
• Insight into managing ADHD and neurodivergence in the context of innovative career paths.

The Importance of Meditation in Today’s World

In a fast-paced, increasingly attention-deficit society, the role of meditation cannot be overstated. Kelly emphasizes how meditation serves as a stabilizing force amidst the chaos of modern life. “It’s something that just brings me so much life, so much joy, and it’s also something I can do quickly and fit into a hectic lifestyle,” she notes. Her vivid analogy of the brain’s attention span dwindling, likening it to the length of a TikTok video, underscores the need for such practices.

Blending Secular and Spiritual Meditation Practices

The conversation between Todd and Kelly navigates the delicate balance between secular and spiritually oriented meditation. Kelly explains, “Meditation itself is single-pointed concentration… you get to choose what your point of concentration is.” By presenting meditation as a flexible tool that can adapt to individual beliefs and preferences, Kelly bridges the gap between diverse spiritual practices and secular approaches.

This inclusive approach is crucial for making meditation accessible. “You can basically infuse as much or as little religious belief or spirituality into your meditation practice,” Kelly elaborates. This perspective fosters a welcoming environment for all, whether one identifies as deeply religious, secular, or somewhere in between. Her story of adapting a meditation class for children in a small, religiously conservative town exemplifies this inclusive practice. Swapping out the term ‘meditation’ for ‘intentional breathing,’ she found a way to impart the benefits of meditation without alienating anyone’s beliefs.

Meditation and Mental Health: Complementary, Not Substitute

Meditation offers significant benefits for mental health, but it must be integrated thoughtfully within a broader context. Kelly wisely addresses this, cautioning against viewing meditation as a standalone solution for serious mental health issues. “I’ve had people email me saying they hear voices, or things that clearly need professional help,” she shares. “And I always make it clear—I’m just a meditation teacher, and I don’t have the tools required to address such issues fully.”

By advocating for a collaborative approach between meditation and medical health professionals, Kelly stresses the importance of holistic wellness. “Meditation is a beautiful complementary practice to what you’re doing with professionals,” she says, “but I would never recommend someone to abandon their treatment plan for meditation alone.”

Key Strategies for Mental Clarity and Balance

Todd further probes Kelly’s strategies for maintaining mental clarity amidst a barrage of information. One effective practice she endorses is to listen to the body. “When I physically feel antsy or anxious, I know it’s time to reduce screen time and engage more in calming practices,” she explains. This self-awareness is crucial, as it guides her in making healthier choices for mental well-being.

Kelly’s use of simple, effective techniques such as three deep breaths for grounding or asking for guidance from her ‘highest self’ underscores how even small practices can have profound impacts. These techniques are manageable, making them accessible to anyone looking to integrate mindfulness into their daily lives.

Neurodivergence, ADHD, and Career Fulfillment

Kelly’s personal journey with ADHD and neurodivergence provides a compelling narrative on leveraging one’s unique cognitive abilities for career success. Diagnosed with ADHD at a young age, she found conventional schooling challenging. “I felt like a failure in traditional school settings,” she shares, reflecting the wider struggle many neurodivergent individuals face in standardized systems.

However, this diagnosis has transformed into Kelly’s strength. “Now I see how my brain’s different workings make me very good at what I do,” she enthuses. Her career path is a testament to the potential within neurodivergence, fostering creativity, impulsivity, and unique problem-solving skills. For example, her spontaneous outreach to Todd to discuss potential collaboration—an impulsive but fruitful move—highlighted as a blend of her entrepreneurial spirit and ADHD.

Managing ADHD Without Medication: A Balanced Approach

Kelly’s balanced discussion on medication sheds light on her nuanced approach to managing ADHD. While she acknowledges the benefits of medications like Concerta during her school years, she leans on self-management strategies as an adult. “I understand my brain better now and have developed ways to work within those parameters,” she explains.

Kelly’s ability to tailor her unconventional job around her neurodivergence without heavy reliance on medication presents an inspiring model for others. Her story demonstrates that ADHD, often perceived negatively, can be reframed as a source of strength and success.

In retrospect, Todd’s conversation with Kelly underlines profound insights into mindfulness, neurodivergence, and the creative spectrum of career paths. As Kelly aptly illustrates, blending diverse meditation practices, advocating for mental health utilities, and harnessing the potential of a neurodivergent brain offer invaluable tools for personal and professional enrichment. This holistic approach not only accommodates our current societal demands but enriches our collective understanding of mental and emotional well-being, making it accessible and achievable for all.

Thanks for listening to this episode. Check out: 👇
Free Grow Your Yoga Live Webinar – Every Thursday at 12pm EST
➡️ Click here to receive link

New Student FREE Livestream Yoga Special ~ Try 2 Weeks of Free Unlimited Livestream Yoga Classes  at Native Yoga Center. info.nativeyogacenter.com/livestream Sign into the classes you would like to take and you will receive an email 30 minutes prior to join on Zoom. The class is recorded and uploaded to nativeyogaonline.com  ➡️  Click Here to Join. 

Subscribe to Native Yoga Center and view this podcast on Youtube.

Thank you Bryce Allyn for the show tunes. Check out Bryce’s website: bryceallynband.comand sign up on his newsletter to stay in touch. Listen here to his original music from his bands Boxelder, B-Liminal and Bryce Allyn Band on Spotify.

Please email special requests and feedback to info@nativeyogacenter.com

Enjoy new Native Yoga Center classes uploaded everyday on our online learning hub. Use code FIRSTMONTHFREE at checkout. https://nativeyogacenter.teachable.com/p/today-s-community-class

Support the Show.

Native Yoga website: here
YouTube: here
Instagram: @nativeyoga 
Twitter: @nativeyoga 
Facebook: @nativeyogacenter 
LinkedIn: Todd McLaughlin

Listen to Toddcast with Robert for FREE Here

Robert Sturman is a renowned photographer known for his exceptional ability to capture the essence of yoga and human expression through his lens. With a storied career that spans decades, Robert has traveled the world, photographing notable yoga instructors, diverse subjects in unique settings such as prisons and military bases, and cultures enriched with depth. He is also a passionate advocate for humane practices and leads online photography courses to empower others.

Visit Robert on his website: https://www.robertsturmanstudio.com/
Follow him on IG: https://www.instagram.com/robertsturman/
And Otis the Handsome Hound: https://www.instagram.com/otisthehandsomehound/?img_index=1

Key Takeaways:

• The Evolution of an Artist: Robert Sturman’s journey from a novice to a master photographer, fueled by passion and a deep desire to help people see the world differently.
• Capturing Emotions: The significance of mindfulness in photography and how one powerful image can convey the richness of human experience.
• Yoga and Photography: How Robert’s connection to yoga has enriched his work and why he believes yoga poses are akin to artistic figurative poetry.

The Art of Seeing: Exploring Photography with Robert Sturman

Key Takeaways

• Mastery Over Gadgetry: Robert Sturman argues that great photography isn’t about the equipment but about mastering the craft.
• Transformative Power of Imagery: Sturman’s work captures the profound intersection of yoga and human experience, aiming to elevate humanity through his artistic lens.
• Empathy and Ethical Responsibility: Sturman’s approach to photography and life, which includes working with prisoners and animal-tested dogs, emphasizes deep empathy and living with mindful responsibility.

Photography is an art form that captures not just images but the essence of moments, emotions, and stories. In a recent conversation with renowned photographer Robert Sturman, we explored the journey of a master artist whose work is a testament to the beauty and depth of human experience. The discussion ranged from the technical aspects of photography to the profound impact of yoga and empathetic living. This article delves into the core themes from this insightful dialogue.

Mastery Over Gadgetry: The True Essence of Photography

Photography Beyond the iPhone

One of the salient points Robert Sturman makes is about the misconception that the quality of photography is heavily reliant on the type of equipment used. In an age where iPhones and digital cameras are ubiquitous, Sturman emphasizes the importance of mastering the art itself rather than focusing on the gadgets. “The best camera is the camera in your hand,” he mentions, illustrating that it’s the vision and technique of the photographer that make a significant difference.

Sturman started his photography journey with a basic black and white film camera gifted by his father when he was just 14. This early exposure (pun intended) laid the groundwork for his lifelong endeavor to master the craft. His advice stands strong, especially in a world overwhelmed with snapshots and selfies: “It does push me to master my craft even further, to distinguish between a snapshot and a powerful image.”

The Pedagogy of Photography

Sturman extends his expertise through online courses aimed at demystifying photography. His teaching philosophy is fascinatingly grounded in simplicity. “I’m a fan of, if a kindergartener can’t understand it, then I haven’t taught it well,” he shares, advocating that the basics should be accessible to anyone willing to learn. The focus on foundational techniques over complex gadgetry highlights his commitment to perpetuating the essence of true photography.

Transformative Power of Imagery: Yoga and Human Experience

Capturing the Soul of Yoga

Robert Sturman’s body of work is deeply intertwined with the practice of yoga. His imagery isn’t just about physical postures but reflects the poetic expression of the human spirit. “I looked around and saw that it was some of the most beautiful figurative poetry I’d ever seen in my life,” he recounts. His photos traverse beyond aesthetics, capturing the devotion, strength, and serenity embodied in yoga.

This focus on yoga is not just a thematic choice but a reflection of his personal journey. Sturman’s immersion in yoga began in Los Angeles and evolved through his experiences and travels. The authenticity and depth of his work come from his firsthand understanding of yoga as a practitioner. This allows him to create images that resonate profoundly with viewers.

Global Journeys and Universal Themes

Sturman’s camera has captured the essence of yoga across diverse cultures and settings. From the shores of Cuba to the streets of Nairobi, his work glorifies the universal themes of resilience, peace, and transformation. His iconic series in Cuba, although captured in 2016, continues to inspire, proving his point that timeless art doesn’t expire.

A particularly compelling series is his work in prisons, where he documents inmates practicing yoga. This project underscores the transformative power of both yoga and imagery. “The guys who do the yoga and meditation make better choices,” recalls Sturman, quoting a warden from one of the prisons. This simple yet powerful insight fueled his mission to use photography as a tool for social change.

Empathy and Ethical Responsibility: Living Through the Lens

Photography with a Purpose

Robert Sturman’s approach to his work is not just about capturing beautiful images but about making a difference. His projects often intersect with social justice themes, aiming to humanize marginalized groups. His prison yoga series is a testament to this, as he aims to destigmatize and bring empathy into the narrative surrounding incarcerated individuals.

In another powerful narrative, Sturman shares his experience with his dog Otis, a survivor of animal testing. This personal story is a poignant reminder of the broader ethical responsibilities we hold. “I can only buy cruelty-free products,” he admits, underscoring a life lived with mindful responsibility. His advocacy isn’t loud or confrontational but sincere and deeply rooted in his personal transformation and empathy.

The Role of Art in Activism

Sturman’s work with prisoners and rescue animals like Otis exemplifies the role of art in activism. His images do more than document—they inspire and advocate for change. By focusing on subjects like prisoners practicing yoga or rescue dogs, he challenges viewers to rethink preconceived notions and fosters a sense of empathy and urgency.

“I want to take an idea… and reflect that back and make photographs of it so that it ultimately, at first, is a little shocking,” he explains. This initial shock gives way to acceptance and eventually, a new normal. His imagery serves as a powerful tool for social transformation, creating a visual dialogue that encourages compassion and understanding.

Robert Sturman’s work is a testament to the profound impact that art can have on our perception and understanding of the world. By mastering his craft, capturing transformative human experiences, and living with ethical integrity, Sturman exemplifies the power of photography to inspire change and elevate humanity. His journey and insights remind us that true artistry lies not just in the images we create but in the purpose and empathy with which we create them.

Thanks for listening to this episode. Check out: 👇
Free Grow Your Yoga Live Webinar – Every Thursday at 12pm EST
➡️ Click here to receive link

New Student FREE Livestream Yoga Special ~ Try 2 Weeks of Free Unlimited Livestream Yoga Classes  at Native Yoga Center. info.nativeyogacenter.com/livestream Sign into the classes you would like to take and you will receive an email 30 minutes prior to join on Zoom. The class is recorded and uploaded to nativeyogaonline.com  ➡️  Click Here to Join. 

Subscribe to Native Yoga Center and view this podcast on Youtube.

Thank you Bryce Allyn for the show tunes. Check out Bryce’s website: bryceallynband.comand sign up on his newsletter to stay in touch. Listen here to his original music from his bands Boxelder, B-Liminal and Bryce Allyn Band on Spotify.

Please email special requests and feedback to info@nativeyogacenter.com

Enjoy new Native Yoga Center classes uploaded everyday on our online learning hub. Use code FIRSTMONTHFREE at checkout. https://nativeyogacenter.teachable.com/p/today-s-community-class

Support the Show.

Native Yoga website: here
YouTube: here
Instagram: @nativeyoga 
Twitter: @nativeyoga 
Facebook: @nativeyogacenter 
LinkedIn: Todd McLaughlin

Listen to Toddcast with Bob for FREE Here

Bob Cirino is the director of the Yoga Studies Institute, a nonprofit organization dedicated to teaching classic literature and methods of yoga. With a rich background in meditation, permaculture, and scientific research on environmental sustainability, Bob combines his expertise to promote compassionate living and environmental stewardship. He is also known for his work with the Asian Legacy Library and has a significant presence in international yoga communities.

Visit Bob on his website: https://spiritual-warrior.circle.so/home
also on: https://www.yogastudiesinstitute.org/
and on IG: https://www.instagram.com/bob.cirino/?hl=en

Key Takeaways:

• The Power of Compassionate Wisdom: Bob underscores the necessity of integrating wisdom and compassion in yoga practices to foster true transformation and environmental stewardship.
• Connection Between Yoga and Permaculture: Discover how Bob links the principles of permaculture with yoga philosophy, highlighting a holistic approach to living harmoniously with nature.
• Empty Nature of Reality: The episode explores the concept that objects and experiences are projections of our perceptions, emphasizing the role of mindfulness in changing our reality.
• Service as a Path to Fulfillment: Bob’s journey illustrates how acts of service and cultivating compassion can lead to personal and global healing.

The Intersection of Yoga, Permaculture, and Compassion: Insights from the Native Yoga Toddcast with Bob Cirino

Key Takeaways:

• The Power of Compassion in Yoga and Life: Cultivating compassion is central to transforming not only personal practices but also societal approaches to sustainability and well-being.
• Permaculture as a Metaphor for Yoga: Gardening and permaculture principles serve as profound metaphors for understanding the nature of mind and the practice of yoga.
• Embracing Wisdom and Service: Truly impactful yoga and meditation practices are those that incorporate compassionate wisdom and are directed towards serving others.

The Power of Compassion in Yoga and Life

In a captivating episode of the Native Yoga Toddcast, host Todd McLaughlin speaks with Bob Cirino, the Director of the Yoga Studies Institute, on myriad topics ranging from yoga to permaculture and compassion. One of the central themes that emerged from their conversation is the transformative power of compassion in both yoga practice and daily life.

Cirino emphasizes that genuine, impactful practice goes beyond physical postures or intellectual understanding—it must incorporate an element of compassionate wisdom. As Cirino eloquently puts it, “We have all the solutions already… we just have to implement.” It’s not merely about acquiring knowledge but about applying it in a way that benefits others. Cirino elaborates, “Engaging in the world in a way that is compassionate transforms the nature of our actions and their outcomes.”

Cirino’s journey illustrates how compassion acts as a bridge, amplifying the effectiveness of one’s practice: “The joy of doing something beautiful in the world exists totally in this present moment before the fruit. The activity of wholeheartedly living your true beliefs is the fruit.”

Thus, compassion isn’t just a byproduct of spiritual practice; it is an integral part of the method itself. It serves as a catalyst that accelerates benefits and helps align one’s actions with broader positive outcomes. Ultimately, compassion extends beyond individual practice to impact societal approaches to sustainability and well-being.

Permaculture as a Metaphor for Yoga

Cirino’s deep appreciation for permaculture reveals how aligned its principles are with the practice of yoga. Permaculture, a holistic design system centered on simulating or directly utilizing natural ecosystems, serves as a robust metaphor for understanding the complexities of mind and spirituality. Cirino’s reflection on this is profound: “The essence of meditation is keeping our core values present, and you know, that’s the object that we’re fixing our mind on.”

By comparing the subtleties of gardening to the practice of yoga, Cirino uncovers the deeper layers of both disciplines. He explains, “Permaculture is such, such an… it’s this beautiful contrast of observation and action, of passivity and activity.” The careful observation required in permaculture mirrors the mindfulness necessary in yoga, while the subsequent actions taken in the garden reflect spiritual practices aimed at self-cultivation.

In the context of both practices, the analogy of ‘weeds’ emerged powerfully. A weed, Cirino argues, is a subjective concept reflecting our mind’s proclivity to label and judge: “What is a weed? The weed is a weed because you made it a weed… it’s the wrong view that sees it as such.” By recognizing this, practitioners can appreciate yoga postures and garden plants as embodying infinite potential rather than fixed categories.

Permaculture and yoga both encourage an approach to life that integrates awareness, observation, and meaningful action. As Cirino reiterates, “Let me intentionally put something beautiful and pure in that empty space so that I get to eat that fruit,” reinforcing the importance of mindful and compassionate engagement in every endeavor.

Embracing Wisdom and Service

A recurring theme in the conversation was the blend of wisdom and service as essential components of impactful yoga and meditation practices. Cirino highlights that wisdom alone isn’t sufficient; it must be complemented by a commitment to compassionate action. Drawing from yogic texts, he explains, “Wisdom without compassion looks like… we have solutions on a shelf, but no one’s taken action.”

Understanding this balance, the Yoga Studies Institute promotes a nine-link method known as navanga yoga, which integrates compassionate wisdom explicitly into traditional practices. Cirino advocates for cultivating compassion through service, underscoring the interconnectedness of all beings. He shares, “The highest of your potential most powerfully is in serving other beings.”

This concept is echoed in Cirino’s personal experiences, where acts of service have catalyzed pivotal moments in his spiritual journey. He narrates one such occasion while working on a permaculture farm: “I had these nice moments meditating…and then one morning, I had a meditative experience that just was absolutely indescribable and ecstatic.” This realization pushed him to integrate his wisdom about environmental sustainability with the compassion fostered through his yogic practices.

Thus, the pathway to deeper understanding and happiness is not merely through intellectual endeavors but through heartfelt service and the application of compassionate wisdom. Such a holistic approach has far-reaching implications, suggesting that the true practice of yoga extends into every action we take toward improving our communities and environments.

Yoga, permaculture, and compassionate wisdom are not isolated practices but interconnected paths leading to a harmonious existence. Cirino’s insights reveal the profound transformations that can occur when we embody these principles. By integrating compassion and wisdom in our actions, we not only enhance our own well-being but also contribute positively to the world around us. This episode of the Native Yoga Toddcast serves as an enlightening reminder that the seeds we plant today, both literally and metaphorically, shape the future we wish to see.

Thanks for listening to this episode. Check out: 👇
Free Grow Your Yoga Live Webinar – Every Thursday at 12pm EST
➡️ Click here to receive link

New Student FREE Livestream Yoga Special ~ Try 2 Weeks of Free Unlimited Livestream Yoga Classes  at Native Yoga Center. info.nativeyogacenter.com/livestream Sign into the classes you would like to take and you will receive an email 30 minutes prior to join on Zoom. The class is recorded and uploaded to nativeyogaonline.com  ➡️  Click Here to Join. 

Subscribe to Native Yoga Center and view this podcast on Youtube.

Thank you Bryce Allyn for the show tunes. Check out Bryce’s website: bryceallynband.comand sign up on his newsletter to stay in touch. Listen here to his original music from his bands Boxelder, B-Liminal and Bryce Allyn Band on Spotify.

Please email special requests and feedback to

Enjoy new Native Yoga Center classes uploaded everyday on our online learning hub. Use code FIRSTMONTHFREE at checkout. https://nativeyogacenter.teachable.com/p/today-s-community-class

Support the Show.

Native Yoga website: here
YouTube: here
Instagram: @nativeyoga 
Twitter: @nativeyoga 
Facebook: @nativeyogacenter 
LinkedIn: Todd McLaughlin

Click here to listen to podcast with Jessica for FREE

Jessica Hwang is a dedicated career transition coach with a background in corporate finance. She is the founder of Jessica Hwang Coaching, where she assists individuals in making the leap from secure corporate positions to independent, passion-driven careers. Jessica is also a yoga teacher and hosts her podcast “Permission to Flow,” formerly known as “A Way of Thinking.” Her expertise lies in leveraging personal growth, yoga principles, and her experiences from the corporate world to guide others towards fulfilling careers.

Visit Jessica: http://jessicahwangcoaching.com/
Listen to podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/permission-to-flow/id1622215177

Key Takeaways:

• Career Transition Strategy: It’s vital to create a steady financial foundation and consider gradual steps rather than a sudden leap when transitioning from a corporate job to independent work.
• The Role of Self-Belief: Cultivating self-belief through personal growth, support systems, and recognizing past achievements is crucial for success.
• Yoga’s Impact: Yoga can provide the mental clarity and resilience needed to navigate significant life changes.
• Community and Support: Surrounding oneself with a supportive community and professionals like coaches and therapists can make the transition smoother.

Unlocking the Power of Career Transition: Insights from Jessica Hwang

Key Takeaways:

• Cultivating Self-Belief Through Life Transitions
• Balancing Financial Security with Pursuing Passion
• The Power of Curiosity and Continuous Learning

The journey from a stable corporate job to pursuing a passion-driven career is filled with both challenges and opportunities. In an engaging conversation between Todd McLaughlin and Jessica Hwang, the Native Yoga Toddcast explores these transitions in-depth, capturing essential wisdom that can inspire anyone considering a similar path.

Jessica Hwang, a career transition coach, shares her insights on moving from a corporate career to an independent one and highlights the importance of yoga, self-belief, and curiosity throughout this journey. Here are the three main themes that stood out during the discussion.

Cultivating Self-Belief Through Life Transitions

Jessica’s journey from the world of corporate finance to becoming a career transition coach and yoga teacher is a testament to the importance of self-belief. Like many, she started with a traditional career path, driven by the expectations of stability and financial security. However, her experiences in the corporate world left her feeling something was missing. Reflecting on her burnout moment, she revealed, “It was for a while, it was this nagging kind of feeling in the background where I was like, I don’t know what it is exactly, but I know something’s not right.”

Self-belief played a pivotal role in her decision to pivot her career fully. Jessica emphasized, “You have to create a steady foundation for yourself.” This foundation involved financial planning, but more critically, it meant recognizing and nurturing those inner talents and skills that often go unnoticed or undervalued in a corporate setting.

Her newfound path also fueled her belief in what she could achieve, stating, “I will endlessly work so hard on this, on my podcast, on coaching, like all of this, I will keep learning in a way that I wasn’t doing when I was in finance.” This perspective shift highlights the resilience and passion required for anyone looking to transform their career.

Balancing Financial Security with Pursuing Passion

Financial security often stands as the most significant barrier for individuals considering a career transition. Jessica’s experience underscores the necessity of having a sound financial strategy before making the leap. “Creating that kind of foundation financially is super important,” she noted, emphasizing the role of savings and careful financial planning.

The notion of security in traditional jobs can be misleading. Jessica points out, “This perception that we have security in our jobs is a little bit of a fallacy these days.” The recurring layoffs and instability faced in many corporate environments suggest that true security stems from one’s confidence in their abilities and their resourcefulness.

Todd shared this sentiment, highlighting the unpredictability even in “secure” jobs. He observed, “There’s a lot of security behind a well-paying job. however Is it secure? Do you know?” This shared understanding reiterates that security should be redefined as trust in oneself rather than reliance on job stability.

The Power of Curiosity and Continuous Learning

A recurring theme in the conversation was the importance of maintaining curiosity and a willingness to learn. Jessica attributes much of her growth to her yoga practice, which remained a constant source of peace and inspiration. Reflecting on her journey, she said, “Follow your curiosity. I think that we have become disconnected from being curious.”

This curiosity doesn’t just apply to personal growth but extends to professional endeavors. “It’s the power of the questions that we ask ourselves,” Jessica advised, reinforcing that self-inquiry can lead to profound insights and breakthroughs. As Todd deliberated his own challenges, Jessica prompted him to ask deeper questions and to “look for evidence of how he can trust himself.”

Both Todd and Jessica advocate for embracing change and exploring new possibilities. Jessica mentioned her admiration for Dharma Mitra, emphasizing his influence on her philosophy, “He inspires me and so much of what I’m doing.” This dedication to continuous learning and growth elevates their efforts to create meaningful and impactful work.

Reflecting on Growth and Potential

The discussion between Todd and Jessica reveals that the journey of career transition is as much about inner growth as it is about external change. Their conversation offers invaluable insights into building self-belief, redefining financial security, and harnessing curiosity.

In reflecting on their exchange, it’s clear that these themes are interconnected. Jessica’s strategies for maintaining financial stability allowed her to focus on what truly mattered—her passion and talents. Todd’s acknowledgment of these shared experiences reinforces the notion that while the path may be daunting, it is certainly achievable with the right mindset and support.

Ultimately, the blend of passion, hard work, continuous curiosity, and a supportive community forms the cornerstone of successfully navigating a career transition. Both Todd and Jessica exemplify how dedication to these principles can lead to not just a fulfilling career, but a rewarding and purposeful life.

Thanks for listening to this episode. Check out: 👇
Free Grow Your Yoga Live Webinar – Every Thursday at 12pm EST
➡️ Click here to receive link

New Student FREE Livestream Yoga Special ~ Try 2 Weeks of Free Unlimited Livestream Yoga Classes  at Native Yoga Center. info.nativeyogacenter.com/livestream Sign into the classes you would like to take and you will receive an email 30 minutes prior to join on Zoom. The class is recorded and uploaded to nativeyogaonline.com  ➡️  Click Here to Join. 

Subscribe to Native Yoga Center and view this podcast on Youtube.

Thank you Bryce Allyn for the show tunes. Check out Bryce’s website: bryceallynband.comand sign up on his newsletter to stay in touch. Listen here to his original music from his bands Boxelder, B-Liminal and Bryce Allyn Band on Spotify.

Please email special requests and feedback to info@nativeyogacenter.com

Enjoy new Native Yoga Center classes uploaded everyday on our online learning hub. Use code FIRSTMONTHFREE at checkout. https://nativeyogacenter.teachable.com/p/today-s-community-class

Support the Show.

Native Yoga website: here
YouTube: here
Instagram: @nativeyoga 
Twitter: @nativeyoga 
Facebook: @nativeyogacenter 
LinkedIn: Todd McLaughlin