Podcast
Native Yoga Toddcast
Hosted by Todd Mclaughlin · EN
It’s challenging to learn about yoga when there is so much information conveyed in a language that often seems foreign. Join veteran yoga teacher and massage therapist, Todd McLaughlin, as he engages weekly with professionals in the field of yoga and bodywork through knowledgable and relatable conversation. If you want to deepen your understanding of yoga and bodywork practices, don’t miss an episode!
28episodes
Episodes
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Molly Kranovich: Building a Heart-Led Yoga Studio & Retail Shop at Lumi Studio Shoppe
6d ago00:51:40Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailMolly 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 worldWhether 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/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-classSubscribe 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.comhttps://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/Support the showNative Yoga website: hereYouTube: hereInstagram: @nativeyoga Twitter: @nativeyoga Facebook: @nativeyogacenter LinkedIn: Todd McLaughlin
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Sky Swisa | Global Yoga Journey, Healing Trauma & Holistic Wellness
2w ago00:59:38Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailJoin Todd McLaughlin for a heartfelt and inspiring conversation with Sky Swisa, founder of Ananda Sky Yoga and a truly global yoga teacher.With a rich multicultural background spanning Russia, Israel, China, and the USA, Sky brings a unique perspective to holistic health and wellness. From working in the diamonds industry in Shanghai to becoming fluent in Mandarin, Hebrew, Russian, and English, her journey into yoga began at age 14. She later completed teacher training in Navakarna Yoga and studied under legendary instructor Dharma Mittra in New York.In this episode, Sky shares her personal path through cultural experiences, teacher training, and the integration of yoga with other healing practices like lymphatic massage. Todd and Sky explore how yoga, community, and spiritual practices help navigate life’s biggest challenges — including personal trauma, grief, loss of loved ones, and mental health.They discuss the evolving nature of yoga practice, the importance of grounding and self-discovery, building supportive community, and adopting a non-judgmental approach to diet and personal growth. Sky emphasizes continual evolution in our practices and perspectives so we can stay aligned with our true selves.Key Takeaways:How a multicultural background and global experiences shape a deeper approach to yoga and wellnessIntegrating yoga with holistic practices for mental and physical well-beingThe transformative power of community and spiritual practice during times of tragedy and traumaWhy a non-judgmental mindset around diet and personal choices matters in the yoga worldThe value of lifelong growth and updating our perspectives as we evolveWhether you’re a yoga practitioner, teacher, or simply on a path of personal growth, this episode offers powerful insights into resilience, healing, and living with greater awareness.Visit Sky: https://www.anandaskyyoga.com/🎙️ Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify to support the show!About the Podcast:The Native Yoga Toddcast explores yoga, meditation, mindfulness, and personal growth through conversations with teachers, creators, and thought leaders.https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/Support the showNative Yoga website: hereYouTube: hereInstagram: @nativeyoga Twitter: @nativeyoga Facebook: @nativeyogacenter LinkedIn: Todd McLaughlin
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Zarah Kravitz | Ayurveda for Modern Life: Postpartum Healing, Seasonal Eating & Yoga
3w ago01:02:28Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailZarah Kravitz is an esteemed Ayurvedic practitioner and yoga teacher currently residing in Southern California. Originally from New Jersey, Zarah moved to New Mexico at a young age and grew up in Santa Fe and Albuquerque before settling in San Diego. She possesses a deep-rooted passion for Ayurveda and yoga, having studied extensively with renowned experts, including Dr. Vasant Lad at The Ayurvedic Institute. Zarah is also an emerging entrepreneur, co-founding Mama Rest—a postpartum nourishment service providing Ayurvedic meals for new mothers. Additionally, Zarah continues to share her passion for yoga and holistic living by teaching yoga classes and offering a specialized cooking course tailored around bioregional and seasonal eating.Visit Zarah: https://www.yogaonstate.com/ayurveda-on-state & on IG https://www.instagram.com/zarahkravitz/Key Takeaways:Integrative Health: Zarah highlights the importance of Ayurveda in creating a holistic health approach, emphasizing the need for understanding one's own body and constitution to promote optimal health.Postpartum Nutrition: Through her venture Mama Rest, Zarah underlines the significance of tailored nutritional support for postpartum mothers using Ayurvedic principles.Ayurveda & Modern Living: She discusses how Ayurveda can be adapted to fit modern lifestyles by promoting seasonal and local food consumption to enhance digestion and overall vitality.Yoga & Spiritual Practice: Zarah shares her journey into yoga, focusing on its transformative power when combined with Ayurveda, and the benefits of community singing practices like Kirtan.🎧 Practice with Native Yoga:8IN8 Ashtanga Yoga Course (FREE coupon):https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/Daily Online Classes (Code: FIRSTMONTHFREE):https://nativeyogacenter.teachable.com/p/today-s-community-classAbout the Podcast:The Native Yoga Toddcast explores yoga, meditation, mindfulness, and personal growth through conversations with teachers, creators, and thought leaders.https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/Support the showNative Yoga website: hereYouTube: hereInstagram: @nativeyoga Twitter: @nativeyoga Facebook: @nativeyogacenter LinkedIn: Todd McLaughlin
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Kashi: Building a Consistent Yoga Practice That Lasts
4w ago01:10:29Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this episode, I sit down with Kashi, a longtime yoga practitioner and former monk, to explore the deeper layers of yoga philosophy and what it really means to live the practice. From his early days in Israel to years spent studying in India, Kashi shares a powerful journey shaped by discipline, self-inquiry, and a commitment to understanding the roots of yoga.We dive into how yoga extends far beyond the physical, touching on themes of community, personal transformation, and the role of philosophy in navigating modern life. A central part of our conversation explores trauma-sensitive yoga and how supportive environments can help people reconnect, heal, and feel seen through shared experience.Kashi also reflects on his transition from monastic life to becoming a householder, offering an honest perspective on change, identity, and staying true to your path even when it challenges expectations. We discuss the relevance of classic yoga texts like the Bhagavad Gita and how their teachings can still guide us through uncertainty, growth, and everyday life.This episode is for anyone seeking a deeper connection to their practice, a better understanding of yoga philosophy, or a grounded perspective on how to stay consistent and authentic on the path.What You’ll Learn:• Why community plays a key role in healing and growth• How yoga supports trauma awareness and emotional resilience• The importance of discipline and long-term practice• How yoga philosophy applies to modern life• What it means to evolve while staying true to yourselfListen if you’re interested in: yoga philosophy, trauma-sensitive yoga, meditation, personal growth, and building a sustainable yoga practice.Listen to Kashi's lecture on BG hereCheck out Kashi's retreat hereListen & subscribe for more conversations on yoga, healing, and personal growth.🎧 Practice with Native Yoga:8IN8 Ashtanga Yoga Course (FREE coupon):https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/Daily Online Classes (Code: FIRSTMONTHFREE):https://nativeyogacenter.teachable.com/p/today-s-community-classAbout the Podcast:The Native Yoga Toddcast explores yoga, meditation, mindfulness, and personal growth through conversations with teachers, creators, and thought leaders.https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/Support the showNative Yoga website: hereYouTube: hereInstagram: @nativeyoga Twitter: @nativeyoga Facebook: @nativeyogacenter LinkedIn: Todd McLaughlin
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Yoshio Hama: Why Discipline Matters More Than Motivation
Apr 1001:10:48Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this episode, Yoshio Hama shares why discipline—not motivation—is the key to a lasting yoga practice.If you’ve ever struggled to stay consistent, felt too busy to practice, or found your motivation fading, this conversation offers a grounded and honest perspective on what it really takes to keep showing up.Todd McLaughlin and Yoshio dive into the deeper meaning of tapas (inner fire), how practice evolves over time, and the reality of maintaining commitment through life’s challenges. This isn’t about perfection—it’s about building a sustainable, lifelong relationship with yoga.You’ll learn:• Why discipline matters more than motivation• How to stay consistent when life gets busy• The role of tapas in personal growth• How your yoga practice evolves over time• Practical insights for maintaining a daily practiceWhether you're new to yoga or have been practicing for years, this episode will help you reconnect with your purpose and keep moving forward—one practice at a time.Visit Yoshio: https://www.instagram.com/activemeditation/Listen & subscribe for more conversations on yoga, healing, and personal growth.🎧 Practice with Native Yoga:8IN8 Ashtanga Yoga Course (FREE coupon):https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/Daily Online Classes (Code: FIRSTMONTHFREE):https://nativeyogacenter.teachable.com/p/today-s-community-classAbout the Podcast:The Native Yoga Toddcast explores yoga, meditation, mindfulness, and personal growth through conversations with teachers, creators, and thought leaders.https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/Support the showNative Yoga website: hereYouTube: hereInstagram: @nativeyoga Twitter: @nativeyoga Facebook: @nativeyogacenter LinkedIn: Todd McLaughlin
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Jeremy Frindel on Vipassana, Filmmaking & The Doctor from India
Apr 301:01:07Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailVipassana, meditation, and how silence shapes creativity, filmmaking, and purpose.What happens after a 10-day silent retreat—and how it can change the way you see your mind, your work, and your life.Jeremy Frindel on Vipassana, meditation, filmmaking & The Doctor from IndiaIn this episode, we sit down with filmmaker Jeremy Frindel to explore how a 10-day Vipassana silent retreat, meditation, and yoga have shaped his creative path and storytelling.Jeremy is best known for directing The Doctor from India and One Track Heart (featuring Krishna Das). His work blends documentary filmmaking with spirituality, Eastern philosophy, and human connection. He is also the creative director of AyurPrana Plus, a streaming platform dedicated to conscious and spiritual content.We discuss meditation, mindfulness, creativity, and the impact of silence—and how a consistent spiritual practice can influence filmmaking, purpose, and personal growth.Key Topics:Vipassana meditation and silent retreatsYoga, meditation, and mindfulnessDocumentary filmmaking and storytellingThe Doctor from India and Krishna DasAyurPrana Plus and spiritual streamingCreativity, purpose, and personal growthVisit Jeremy:https://www.ayurpranaplus.com/https://www.instagram.com/substratumfilms/🎧 Practice with Native Yoga:8IN8 Ashtanga Yoga Course (FREE coupon):https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/Daily Online Classes (Code: FIRSTMONTHFREE):https://nativeyogacenter.teachable.com/p/today-s-community-classAbout the Podcast:The Native Yoga Toddcast explores yoga, meditation, mindfulness, and personal growth through conversations with teachers, creators, and thought leaders.https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/Support the showNative Yoga website: hereYouTube: hereInstagram: @nativeyoga Twitter: @nativeyoga Facebook: @nativeyogacenter LinkedIn: Todd McLaughlin
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Delia Leung | From Finance to Dharma Yoga (Finding Peace in a High-Stress World)
Mar 2701:06:02Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailDelia Leung is an accomplished yoga instructor based in Hong Kong, who owns a boutique yoga studio and teaches Dharma yoga both at her studio and corporate environments like Google. She has a diverse academic background with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology, a law degree, and a Master's in Buddhist Studies. Her journey includes significant professional experience in finance, law, and trading. Delia has studied under the guidance of Dharma Mittra in New York and integrates her rich educational and life experiences into her yoga teachings, focusing on blending spirituality with practical applications.Visit Delia on IG: https://www.instagram.com/delia.indrayoga/Key Takeaways:Delia Leung's path from a finance career to becoming a respected yoga teacher highlights the potential to combine professional skills with personal passions.Delia emphasizes the importance of planting seeds of spirituality and mindfulness even in corporate environments like Google, to aid tech-savvy employees in stress management.The conversation includes insights into how yoga and meditation can profoundly benefit physical and mental resilience, especially among older practitioners.Delia discusses the essence of practicing discernment in one's spiritual and personal development, a key teaching in Buddhist philosophy.The podcast highlights the unique cultural and spiritual practices in Bhutan, showcasing how such environments contribute to the metric of happiness.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-classSubscribe 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.comhttps://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/Support the showNative Yoga website: hereYouTube: hereInstagram: @nativeyoga Twitter: @nativeyoga Facebook: @nativeyogacenter LinkedIn: Todd McLaughlin
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Kyung Pak: From Immigrant Struggle to Yoga, Motherhood, and Inner Strength
Mar 2001:05:56Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailKyung Pak is a dedicated yoga instructor based in San Diego, having embarked on a remarkable journey from her roots in South Korea. Her life story is a testament to resilience and transformation, characterized by her experiences as an immigrant, a single mother of a special needs child, and a journey from a paralegal to a licensed lawyer. Discovering yoga as a means of spiritual and physical enlightenment, Kyung trained extensively under renowned teachers like Dharma Mittra and Tim Miller, integrating their teachings into her vibrant San Diego classes. She is also actively involved in organizing retreats that combine spiritual and cultural exploration.Visit Kyung: https://www.instagram.com/anandadevi_kyung/?hl=enKey Takeaways:Resilience and Transformation: Kyung Pak's inspiring journey from South Korea to U.S. highlights resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of personal and spiritual growth.Yoga and Spirituality: Her life transformation was significantly influenced by her practice and teachings from yoga legends like Dharma Mitra and Tim Miller.Challenges of Immigration: Kyung's candid discussion of her immigration journey reminds listeners of the courage and challenges faced by many immigrants.Caring Community: The support from community, family, and spiritual mentors has played a key role in her transformative journey.Life Lessons: Kyung emphasizes the importance of an abundant mindset and the belief that abundance is our true nature.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-classSubscribe 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.comhttps://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/Support the showNative Yoga website: hereYouTube: hereInstagram: @nativeyoga Twitter: @nativeyoga Facebook: @nativeyogacenter LinkedIn: Todd McLaughlin
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Empath & Psychic Abilities with Polly Green: How to Trust Your Intuition | Native Yoga Toddcast
Mar 1301:03:14Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this episode of the Native Yoga Toddcast, Todd sits down with Polly Green, a professional empath, psychic, and medium, to explore intuition, empath abilities, psychic awareness, and spiritual growth.Polly’s journey is both inspiring and unique. From growing up as a highly sensitive child in a challenging household to adventuring as a whitewater kayaker, Polly’s early experiences shaped her awareness of energy, emotions, and intuition. Her path led her to India and Bali, where she deepened her spiritual practice through yoga, meditation, and mindfulness, strengthening her connection to her empathic and psychic abilities.Now based in California, Polly works with clients to understand and navigate their empathic gifts, strengthen intuition, and live with clarity and confidence.Whether you are an empath seeking guidance, someone exploring psychic abilities, or simply curious about spiritual growth and intuition, this episode provides practical insights, inspiring stories, and tools for personal transformation.Key Takeaways from this EpisodeUnderstanding Empathy: How empaths feel others’ emotions and how to manage emotional overwhelm.Cultural Influence: Lessons from India and Bali on spiritual practices, intuition, and energy awareness.Intuition & Spiritual Guidance: How listening to your inner voice and connecting with spiritual entities can bring clarity and support.Overcoming Fears: Using fear as a catalyst for personal growth, adventure, and unexpected opportunities.ResourcesVisit Polly Green: https://www.pollyandtheotherside.com/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-classSubscribe 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.comhttps://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/Support the showNative Yoga website: hereYouTube: hereInstagram: @nativeyoga Twitter: @nativeyoga Facebook: @nativeyogacenter LinkedIn: Todd McLaughlin
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Michael Wagner | Near-Death Experience, Sri Dharma Mittra & the Path of Yoga
Mar 600:52:01Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailMichael Wagner is a seasoned yoga instructor, specializing in Dharma Yoga since 2009. Originally from Germany, Michael's journey into yoga began with a career in modeling and acting in New York City, where he encountered method acting and subsequently sought balance through yoga. Michael's teachings are shaped by his significant experiences, including training under renowned yoga master Sri Dharma Mittra. Currently, he resides in London, where he continues to share his passion for yoga, drawing from his diverse background in wellness, fitness, and an enriching near-death experience that deepened his spiritual insight.Visit Michael: https://www.instagram.com/michaeldharmayoga/Key Takeaways:Michael Wagner's journey from Germany to yoga realization in New York City showcases the power of yoga in achieving spiritual balance and inner peace.Training under Sri Dharma Mittra played a crucial role in Michael's professional and personal development, embedding principles of non-violence and self-realization into his practice.Michael’s near-death experience was pivotal, reducing his fear of death and solidifying his commitment to living a fully present, spiritually enriched life.The benefits of yoga extend beyond physical fitness, influencing mental clarity, emotional wellbeing, and fostering a deeper understanding of self.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-classSubscribe 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.comhttps://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/Support the showNative Yoga website: hereYouTube: hereInstagram: @nativeyoga Twitter: @nativeyoga Facebook: @nativeyogacenter LinkedIn: Todd McLaughlin
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