Tag Archives: business

20 Years Running a Yoga Studio: Community, Partnership & What Actually Lasts

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Todd McLaughlin and John Coleman delve into the journey of sustaining a yoga studio for over 20 years, emphasizing the importance of resilience, community, and passion for yoga. Explore Todd’s insights on business endurance, teamwork with his wife, Tamara, and the foundational role of gratitude and self-care. They discuss the influence of renowned teachers like Pattabhi Jois and Tim Miller, the challenges of staying authentic, and the evolving nature of yoga practice. This episode provides valuable lessons on commitment, adaptability, and the holistic benefits of yoga practice for both studio owners and practitioners.

Key Takeaways:

  • Todd attributes his studio’s success to a strong commitment to community building, focusing on genuine connections with his students.
  • Continuous learning and education are vital to staying motivated and improving as a yoga instructor, as shared by Todd from his extensive experience.
  • Todd and Tamara’s balanced partnership as co-owners plays a crucial role in the smooth running and resilience of their studio.
  • The integration of gratitude and authenticity into daily life and teaching practices significantly enhances personal and professional growth.
  • Building a sustainable yoga practice involves more than just physical poses; it’s about educating students on the lineage, philosophy, and real-life applications of yoga.

Embracing Endurance and Flexibility for Longevity

In the tumultuous world of business, only a small percentage achieve the milestone of 20 years in operation. Todd McLaughlin’s yoga studio stands as a testament to enduring success. One of the critical elements McLaughlin emphasizes is the power of endurance combined with the ability to be flexible in challenging situations. “I made a very clear commitment that… I wanted to try to… go for 30.” This long-term vision highlights the essential need for patience and persistence.

Todd reflects on the dynamic nature of business timelines. He shares, “We came in, hearing these stats, we, we went for the one year, we, we got to five… we kept our expenses so low.” These strategic choices advocate for a focused, incremental growth approach, where goals are broken down into manageable parts. By tackling challenges one day at a time, McLaughlin and his wife have navigated obstacles, including global disruptions like COVID, “We had moments where we needed to dive deeper into our endurance, such as with COVID.”

Cultivating Authenticity in Service Delivery

Another defining aspect of Todd McLaughlin’s successful journey lies in the authenticity and genuine engagement with his clients. Being more than just a business, his yoga studio symbolizes personal connection and shared growth. “You got to love people and you got to, you know, that’s, that’s huge.”

Todd acknowledges that relationships and personal commitment are central to enduring business. “Every single client is your boss. You’ve got to show up… be clean and prepared.” This outlook enriches customer experience, making clients feel valued and appreciated. Todd pays homage to mentors who have inspired this mindset, “Our teacher in India, Patabi Joyce instilled… to practice on your own.”

McLaughlin’s approach underscores a philosophy intertwined with understanding student needs and nurturing them beyond the surface level desires, offering something richer and more fulfilling, akin to a ‘passing of the torch’ of yoga wisdom. This strategy shelters his business from the superficial distress of short-term performance metrics, allowing for a loyal and engaged client base.

Building Community and Personal Development

Central to McLaughlin’s enterprise ethos is community building complemented by personal growth. Todd describes teaching yoga as living authentically and genuinely, “People are looking for increased peace, increased health and improved… connection with their community.” This notion translates into fostering an environment where both the business and individuals thrive.

Drilling down deeper, Todd regularly initiates personal introspection. Journaling about gratitude provides him with clarity, “I write down every morning… three things you’re grateful for.” Such practices underpin his business philosophy, reminding him of the fundamental human needs that transcend commercial transactions.

Todd extends this philosophy to his students, encouraging personal growth by learning beyond classes, as suggested by his encouraging words, “At some point you’re going to be able to… have your own yoga going.” He draws from various influences, which reflects an open and adaptable learning environment in his studio. This focus nurtures a strong communal bond formed through mutual reliance and shared triumphs, echoing the studio’s operational ethos.

Todd McLaughlin’s saga of maintaining a flourishing yoga studio over two decades serves as a rich narrative about the merits of endurance, authenticity, and community focus. By embedding these principles into his business fabric, McLaughlin not only secures his studio’s survival but also positions it as an exemplar of longevity for other aspiring entrepreneurs. His journey accentuates the harmony of steadfast commitment with a penchant for growth and mindfulness, an ever-dynamic relationship pivotal for sustainable success.

Check out: 👇
8IN8 Ashtanga Yoga for Beginners Course Online– Learn 8 Limb Yoga in 8 Days – Get FREE coupon code for a limited time only (Regular price $88) https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/

Practice with Native Yoga Online – New classes EVERY day – Use Code FIRSTMONTHFREE https://nativeyogacenter.teachable.com/p/today-s-community-class

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

https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days

Support the show

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

Rane Bowen: AI Podcast Tools, Yoga Healing & Cancer Survivor Story

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Rane Bowen is a seasoned software and web developer with over 20 years of experience in the technology sector. Originally from New Zealand, Rane now resides in Melbourne, Australia, where he combines his passion for technology and yoga. He is the co-host of the Flow Artist Podcast alongside his wife, Jo Stewart, a yoga teacher and author. Rane is the creator of innovative platforms like Sound Made Scene and Guest Made Simple, designed to enhance the podcasting experience. He is also a yoga teacher who has used yoga as a tool for healing and personal growth.

Visit Rane: https://gardenofyoga.com.au/

Key Takeaways:

  • Rane Bowen has a rich background in software development and utilizes his skills to enhance podcasting through AI-driven tools like Sound Made Scene.
  • His experience as a yoga teacher and cancer survivor gives him a unique perspective on combining technology with holistic practices.
  • The advances in AI are transforming industries, but Rane underscores the importance of using these tools responsibly and creatively.
  • Platforms like Sound Made Scene and Guest Made Simple aim to simplify the podcasting process by automating tedious tasks and improving workflow.
  • Rane highlights the significance of approaching tech innovations with both optimism and skepticism to balance progress with ethical considerations.

The Intersection of Technology, Yoga, and Personal Growth

In an era where technology permeates every aspect of our lives, Rane Bowen stands out as a beacon of innovation and resilience. As a software developer and yoga instructor, Rane has uniquely blended his expertise in technology with his passion for yoga. His journey is a testament to the transformative power of technology when used creatively and mindfully. This dual expertise has enabled him to create platforms like Sound Made Scene and Guest Made Simple, designed to simplify podcast production and enhance user engagement.

Rane’s journey is more than just a narrative of professional success; it’s also a story of personal growth. Having faced significant health challenges, including a battle with stomach cancer, he has found solace and strength in yoga. This experience has not only shaped his personal philosophy but also influenced his professional endeavors. Additionally, Rane’s Maori heritage has enriched his perspective, offering valuable insights into cultural resilience and community spirit.

Innovative Solutions in Podcasting: Leveraging Technology for Creativity

Bridging the Gap Between Technology and Content Creation

Rane Bowen’s approach to technology is rooted in problem-solving and creativity. His platform, Sound Made Scene, exemplifies the potential of AI in streamlining content creation. Rane shares, “I’d find a little section of the podcast that I wanted to use… and then subtitle it, but I had to do it all manually.” Recognizing the time-consuming nature of this process, he developed Sound Made Scene to automate the transcription and video creation tasks. This innovation not only eases the workload for podcasters but also enhances their ability to engage audiences effectively.

Guest Made Simple, another brainchild from Rane, further illustrates his commitment to improving the podcasting workflow. The platform addresses common logistical challenges, such as collecting guest information and scheduling across time zones. Rane explains, “It can be kind of hard sort of getting together with a guest… so I built a system that can do that.” By simplifying these processes, Rane allows content creators to focus more on the art of storytelling and less on administrative tasks.

The Broader Implications of AI in Content Creation

The impact of Rane’s innovations extends beyond mere productivity gains. By integrating AI into these platforms, Rane enables podcasters to expand their reach and improve the quality of their content. AI tools offer a level of personalization and efficiency previously unattainable, opening new doors for creative expression. However, Rane acknowledges the complex nature of AI, noting, “Though I may sound quite optimistic about it, I do have… a pretty good understanding of all the negative consequences.”

This balanced perspective is crucial as society navigates the rapid advancement of AI technologies. By focusing on the positive potential while remaining aware of the risks, content creators can leverage AI as a tool for innovation rather than a threat to traditional roles.

Personal Resilience and the Healing Power of Yoga

Navigating Life’s Challenges with a Holistic Approach

Rane Bowen’s battle with stomach cancer was a pivotal moment that reshaped his outlook on life. Facing a misdiagnosed terminal illness, Rane turned to yoga for physical and spiritual support. Reflecting on this period, he shares, “Yoga was actually really, really useful for me… it helped me through that a little bit as well.” This candid admission highlights the profound healing power of yoga, not just as a physical practice but as a holistic approach to well-being.

Rane’s experience underscores the importance of resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity. By embracing yoga, he found a means to cope with uncertainty and rediscover a sense of peace and purpose. This journey of self-discovery has informed his yoga teaching, where he emphasizes gentle practices that promote inner calm and mindfulness.

The Role of Yoga Philosophy in Mental Health

Rane’s story also sheds light on the broader impact of yoga philosophy on mental health. During a time of intense emotional turmoil, yoga provided Rane with tools to navigate his fears and uncertainties. By integrating breathing techniques and meditation into his daily routine, he was able to maintain a sense of balance and clarity. Rane’s approach to teaching reflects this philosophy, as he aims to “have a nice calm environment wherever I can just sort of, you know, find the bliss.”

For those experiencing similar challenges, yoga offers a pathway to resilience and emotional well-being. It encourages individuals to connect with their inner selves and cultivate a sense of gratitude and acceptance, regardless of external circumstances.

Cultural Roots and Professional Pathways

The Influence of Maori Heritage on Rane’s Journey

Rane Bowen’s Maori heritage plays a significant role in his personal and professional life. Growing up in a culturally rich environment, he was deeply influenced by the Maori values of community, hospitality, and resilience. Reflecting on his upbringing, Rane shares, “There’s a huge sense of community there… it’s a very hospitable culture.”

These cultural values have shaped Rane’s approach to both technology and yoga. His projects emphasize collaboration and support, mirroring the communal spirit of his Maori roots. This perspective enriches his work, allowing him to build connections and foster inclusivity in his various endeavors.

Embracing Diversity in Innovation and Healing

Rane’s journey reflects the importance of embracing diversity and drawing inspiration from cultural heritage. By integrating his Maori values into his work, he demonstrates the power of inclusivity in fostering innovation and healing. This approach encourages others to celebrate their unique backgrounds and draw upon those experiences to enhance their professional and personal lives.

Rane’s story serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of culture, technology, and personal growth. His ability to fuse these elements into a cohesive narrative offers valuable insights for anyone seeking to navigate the complexities of modern life.

Rane Bowen’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of embracing both tradition and innovation. By combining his expertise in technology with his passion for yoga and his rich cultural heritage, Rane has created a life that is not only successful but also deeply fulfilling. His story encourages us to see challenges as opportunities for growth and to remain open to the possibilities that arise from blending diverse influences. Whether through the mindful use of technology or the healing practice of yoga, Rane’s insights offer inspiration for anyone looking to lead a balanced and purposeful life.

Check out: 👇
8IN8 Ashtanga Yoga for Beginners Course Online– Learn 8 Limb Yoga in 8 Days – Get FREE coupon code for a limited time only (Regular price $88) https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/

Practice with Native Yoga Online – New classes EVERY day – Use Code FIRSTMONTHFREE https://nativeyogacenter.teachable.com/p/today-s-community-class

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

https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days

Support the show

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

Molly Kranovich: From Stay-at-Home Mom to Yoga Studio Owner

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Molly Kranovich, owner of Lumi Studio Shoppe in Mount Prospect, Illinois, joins Todd McLaughlin for an honest and inspiring conversation about what it really takes to build a thriving yoga business.

In this episode, Molly shares her journey from stay-at-home mom to successful studio owner. She created a unique multi-functional space that beautifully combines yoga classes, a retail shop featuring local artisans, and a warm community event hub just outside of Chicago.

Molly opens up about the real challenges and victories of small business ownership — rethinking studio layouts, negotiating leases, balancing family life with entrepreneurship, supporting local makers, and standing out against big corporate studios. Her story is filled with heart, creativity, and a deep commitment to building authentic community through yoga and wellness.

You’ll hear:
• How she transitioned from managing her home and children to running a thriving studio
• The power of blending yoga, retail, and community events in one welcoming space
• Practical strategies for overcoming early business setbacks
• How she balances family life while growing her business
• Why supporting local artisans matters in today’s wellness world

Whether you’re a yoga teacher, studio owner, aspiring entrepreneur, or someone who values heart-led businesses, this episode will uplift and motivate you.

Visit Molly at: https://lumistudioshoppe.com/

The Power of Community in Yoga Studios

The journey of owning a yoga studio is often dictated by the strength and vitality of the community it nurtures. Molly Kranovich, owner of Lumi Studio Shoppe, emphasized this philosophy throughout her conversation. Situated in Mount Prospect, Illinois, Lumi Studio Shoppe has become a beacon for community engagement through its multifaceted approach: combining yoga classes, local artisan retail, and event spaces.

Molly’s choice to include local makers in her retail space is a conscious decision that aligns with Lumi’s goals of fostering local connections. She notes, “There are so many local business owners that have helped me along the way… to have them be a part of the Lumi experience is just so amazing.” This approach not only supports local artisans but also draws in people who might initially be hesitant about yoga, serving as a gateway to new experiences.

The broader implications of this community-driven model reach beyond just a business’s immediate success. By building a place where people feel a sense of belonging, studios like Lumi begin to establish lasting relationships that sustain the business through various market challenges. The community becomes both the foundation and the propeller of growth, demonstrating that the human aspect of business often holds more weight than purely financial considerations.

Embracing Innovation and Adaptability in Yoga Studios

In the world of yoga studio ownership, adaptability is key to staying relevant. Molly’s venture into combining various business streams – from yoga classes to retail and events – showcases an innovative spirit necessary for sustaining a small business in a competitive market. When discussing the balance between yoga and retail, Molly states, “Yoga and retail have pretty much been equal since we’ve begun as far as profitability goes.”

This diversification strategy serves to mitigate the risks associated with focusing on a single revenue stream. For instance, the retail element featuring products from local artisans provides an additional income source and enhances the consumer’s overall experience. By offering various types of events, from yoga classes to sourdough workshops to children’s parties, the studio generates multi-faceted interest in the community.

Broader implications of this diversified model indicate a potential approach for other small businesses seeking stability. Entrepreneurship in niche markets, such as yoga, demands innovation and versatility, ensuring a business can pivot in response to changing consumer needs and seasonal fluctuations.

Balancing Family Life with Entrepreneurship

The dual role of being a parent and a business owner is not uncommon, but it requires meticulous time management and a strong support system. Molly illustrates how she navigates these challenges by harmonizing her responsibilities at Lumi Studio Shoppe with raising four children. Her approach includes delegating responsibilities and leveraging her husband’s support, who is “an actuary… and… an amazing supporter.”

Molly’s insight on balancing personal and professional life underscores the importance of having a support network and trusting your team. She shares, “I try to really let my teachers and employees do their thing… I’m not here because I like to be home as much as possible.”

Such strategic delegation allows entrepreneurs like Molly to manage their businesses without compromising family time. The broader perspective here reveals a vital truth about entrepreneurship: success is often predicated on an entrepreneur’s ability to step back and place trust in their team, enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of both their personal and professional lives.

Reflecting on the journey shared by Molly Kranovich in this conversation, it’s clear that owning a yoga studio is not just about teaching yoga; it’s about community building, innovation, and life balance. Lumi Studio Shoppe’s success through adversity offers insightful lessons in embracing community, expanding business models, and harmonizing work-life dynamics. These elements are essential not only for business survival but for crafting environments where creativity and relationships thrive, posing a valuable blueprint for others on a similar path.

Thanks for listening to this episode. Check out: 👇
8IN8 Ashtanga Yoga for Beginners Course Online– Learn 8 Limb Yoga in 8 Days – Get FREE coupon code for a limited time only (Regular price $88) https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/

Practice with Native Yoga Online – New classes EVERY day – Use Code FIRSTMONTHFREE https://nativeyogacenter.teachable.com/p/today-s-community-class

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

https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/

Support the show

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

Salim Rollins | Finding Freedom Through Yoga, Capoeira, and Culture in Africa

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Salim Rollins is a yoga and capoeira teacher based in Nairobi, Kenya, where he co-directs Synergy Yoga with Francisco Morales. Blending Eastern philosophies with African and Brazilian traditions, he leads transformative retreats and workshops. Deeply respected in his community, Salim inspires others through his commitment to wellness, cultural connection, and empowering African youth to embrace their heritage through movement, mindfulness, and self-discovery.

Visit Salim here: https://synergy.yoga/

Key Takeaways:

  • Salim Rollins shares his move from the U.S. to Kenya, drawn by cultural roots and the enriching environment to raise his children.
  • His exploration into yoga began in high school, evolving as a practitioner and teacher after experiencing the blending of yoga with capoeira.
  • The episode highlighted the philosophical depth of capoeira as an art form from Africa that underwent a cultural metamorphosis in Brazil.
  • Salim detailed his innovative retreat ‘Bush to Beach,’ combining Kenyan safari with cultural immersion and wellness activities like yoga and Thai bodywork.

Discovering Synergy: Yoga and Capoeira Across Continents

Understanding the Cultural Connection

In a world increasingly focused on globalization, the crossing of cultural boundaries fosters mutual understanding and growth. Salim Rollins, a prominent figure residing in Nairobi, Kenya, exemplifies this union by connecting African roots and international awareness through the introduction of Capoeira, an Afro-Brazilian martial art, in African communities.

Rollins describes Capoeira as not merely a martial art but “the art of liberation, the art of resistance.” Its roots, steeped in a history of survival and resistance among African enslaved peoples in Brazil, strike a profound chord when taught in Nairobi. Here, Salim integrates his cultural heritage into this art form, creating a bridge over centuries that connects contemporary African youths to their ancestral past.

Salim’s work also highlights the potential of Capoeira as a tool for cultural reclamation and self-empowerment, akin to other cultural expressions like yoga, which he practices deeply. He shares, “I think being in a country as well where it’s not hyper-racialized… influences their self-esteem, their vision for what and who they can become as people.” Both Capoeira and yoga serve as vehicles that transcend mere physical practice—they are pathways to understanding identity and building community.

Adaptive Practices in Capoeira and Yoga

Both Capoeira and yoga adapt to the needs of their practitioners, offering solace and strength in equal measure. Salim recounts finding his first true teacher in New York and how yoga provided balance during his intense Capoeira training. This adaptability is central to the transcultural journey of both practices. Yoga has famously spread from India to gain worldwide prominence, a narrative echoed in Capoeira’s journey from Africa to Brazil and back.

The flexibility of Capoeira is evident in its duality—”We like to call it the art of liberation… it brings together music, percussive music, call and response songs. The physical movements are very graceful,” Salim explains. While it maintains its martial roots, Capoeira’s game aspect indicates a cultural shift towards inclusion and artistic expression, showing its ability to transform according to contemporary cultural contexts, just as yoga has.

Salim’s portrayal of Capoeira’s return to Africa is reminiscent of yoga practitioners in the West seeking authenticity by studying in India. Just as yoga adapts its practice to align with modern lifestyles, Capoeira, through Salim’s efforts, reintegrates into African communities while honoring the essence of its origins. “It’s not a definitive one way or the other,” Salim notes, emphasizing Capoeira’s adaptable nature in being both playful and profound.

Collaborative Spirit: Building Global Communities

Collaboration and community-building lie at the heart of both yoga and Capoeira, and Salim Rollins embodies these values through his work fostering connections between diverse communities. His collaboration with Francisco Morales of Synergy Yoga exemplifies this, with their retreats offering profound cultural experiences and personal growth through the combination of yoga and Capoeira.

Salim eloquently describes integrating Capoeira into Kenyan communities as a process that “ignites this thing that’s already within… they understand it as theirs in an essential way.” His work with Capoeira illuminates a vital aspect of these practices: empowerment through community and heritage. By facilitating retreats and educational experiences, Salim and Francisco create spaces that encourage dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect among participants from around the globe.

Conversations between practitioners can often spark new insights and foster a deeper understanding of one’s own identity and the world. Salim suggests that through “genuine conversation and sometimes talking to someone who may have a different perspective,” one can truly understand the value of cultural exchange.

Both Capoeira and yoga, as global practices, allow for unique collaborations and the sharing of diverse perspectives. They encourage practitioners to learn from each other—an approach echoed in Synergy Yoga’s philosophy of partnership and collaboration. Through retreats that are more than just physical practice—they are journeys that honor culture, community, and personal growth—these ancient traditions continue to evolve in their expression and reach.

As experiences like Salim’s show, the intersections of yoga and Capoeira across continents invite a deeper exploration of tradition, cultural exchange, and personal identity. Unlocking the potential of these practices to foster understanding and connection across borders holds promise for a more inclusive and interconnected world.

Thanks for listening to this episode. Check out: 👇
8IN8 Ashtanga Yoga for Beginners Course Online– Learn 8 Limb Yoga in 8 Days – Get FREE coupon code for a limited time only (Regular price $88) https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/

Practice with Native Yoga Online – New classes EVERY day – Use Code FIRSTMONTHFREE https://nativeyogacenter.teachable.com/p/today-s-community-class

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

Support the show

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