Guys Talking Yoga

Frequent guest Johnny Gillespie revisits the show to reflect on the success of last year's men's yoga workshop at Kripalu, The Way of the Empowered Man, and share his plans for the follow up retreat in January.  The discussion covers the integration of yoga and fitness, the importance of adjusting to participants' needs and the common challenges faced by men in health and wellness, and the unique benefits of yoga retreats for men where they can deepen their practice. Johnny and the guys emphasize the significance of community, breathing techniques, and mobility in achieving overall well-being.  With a deeper understanding on the significance of biomechanics and movement, Johnny emphasizes the connection between the feet, legs, hips, and spine while highlighting the critical role of breathing mechanics in overall health, including the diaphragm and pelvic floor, and the ability to experience significant shifts in their neurological patterns. Johnny also shares insights about the building his business and community at his studio, Empowered Wellness, and celebrating over 25 years in the industry, along with reflections on personal and professional growth for 2025. Connect with Johnny ⁠Sign up for The Way of the Empowered Man Yoga Retreat Empowered Wellness Studio Instagram Johny's previous appearances on Guys Talking Yoga:  Discovering Yoga with Johnny Gillespie and Neil Taylor Awareness, Healing and Figuring Life Out Through the Whole-Body Experience Support and stay connected with the GTY community Website: https://www.gtypodcast.com/⁠ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gtypodcast/⁠ Youtube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@guystalkingyogapodcast⁠Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/guystalkingyoga⁠

In this conversation with Derek and Larry, renowned yoga instructor, author, and veteran, Rolf Gates shares his transformative journey from a troubled youth to a successful yoga teacher and author. Gates discusses the pivotal moments in his life, including his experiences with sports, addiction, and the military, which shaped his understanding of discipline, self-regulation, and personal growth. Emphasizing the importance of exercise in his recovery from addiction, Gates touches on how yoga became a vital part of his life and spiritual awakening, as well as the evolving landscape of yoga, particularly regarding male participation in the practice.  In addition to sharing various insights on the practice of yoga, the importance of letting go, finding balance, and trusting the process of life, Gates speaks to the writing of his best-selling book, 'Meditations from the Mat,' and the power of daily reflections and motivational quotes as tools for wisdom and personal growth. Connect with Rolf Gates ⁠Website⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ Meditations from the Mat: Daily Reflections on the Path of Yoga by Rolf Gates Daily Reflections on Addiction, Yoga, and Getting Well by Rolf Gates Meditations on Intention and Being: Daily Reflections on the Path of Yoga, Mindfulness, and Compassion by Rolf Gates Support and stay connected with the GTY community Website: https://www.gtypodcast.com/⁠ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gtypodcast/⁠ Youtube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@guystalkingyogapodcast⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/guystalkingyoga⁠

In this conversation with power yoga pioneer Bryan Kest, Derek and Larry discuss the evolving perception of yoga among men, emphasizing its multifaceted benefits as a workout that addresses strength, flexibility, and mental well-being.  Kest shares his insights on different styles of yoga, particularly Yin Yoga and Power Yoga, and on how a personal practice can transform over time, especially in relation to aging and injury. The discussion highlights the importance of adapting yoga practices to individual needs and the long-term health benefits of maintaining a consistent yoga routine. In addition, Kest challenges the conventional notions of strength and success, urging listeners to appreciate the simple joys of life and prioritize wellness over societal expectations. Other topics include (1) the profound impact of yoga on personal growth; (2) the importance of quieting the mind; (3) breath as a focal point in a practice; (4) the balance between strength and calmness; (5) the cultural pressures that often lead to ego-driven behaviors; and (6) the need to find a personal practice that resonates with individual needs. Connect with Bryan Kest Website Instagram Autobiography of an American Yogi by Bryan Kest Support and stay connected with the GTY Website: https://www.gtypodcast.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gtypodcast/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@guystalkingyogapodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/guystalkingyoga

In this episode of Guys Talking Yoga, hosts Derek and Larry discuss essential tips for men starting their yoga practice. They emphasize: The importance of setting intentionsChoosing the right yoga matFinding a suitable studioWhat to expect during the first class and how to navigate the studio experienceEssential tips for yoga practitioners, studio etiquette, class structure, and the importance of listening to one's body and breath The need for respect in the yoga space, the significance of punctuality, and the human aspect of yoga teachingEncouraging practitioners to connect with their breathAnd being mindful of their physical limits Check out Larry's teaching videos at Yoga for Dudes: https://www.youtube.com/@YogaForDudes https://www.yogafordudes.com Support and stay connected with the GTY: https://www.gtypodcast.com/ https://www.instagram.com/gtypodcast/ https://www.youtube.com/@guystalkingyogapodcast6274 https://www.facebook.com/guystalkingyoga

What’s stopping more guys from doing yoga? It often comes down to some common misconceptions and excuses. In this episode of the Guys Talking Yoga, co-hosts Derek Vanderwarker and Larry Milburn share the many ways yoga practice has transformed their lives off the mat. Listen as they offer practical tips for men who are yoga-curious but a little hesitant to take the plunge. Derek and Larry also talk about: How yoga builds strength and body awarenessYoga and breathwork for better performanceHow yoga helps with stress and anxietyThe spiritual side of yoga and building communityYoga for midlife men Join the GTY Community: Website: https://www.gtypodcast.com/ Email: info@gtypodcast.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gtypodcast/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/guys-talking-yoga-podcast

Get ready for a new season of the Guys Talking Yoga podcast, where hosts Derek and Larry continue their mission to make yoga accessible to every man. Tune in THIS FALL for engaging conversations and expert insights to help you step on the mat and live a more balanced life practicing yoga. Join the GTY Community: Website: https://www.gtypodcast.com/ Email: info@gtypodcast.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gtypodcast/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/guys-talking-yoga-podcast

When Matt Giordano taught his first yoga class in his mom's Long Island basement, he had no idea he’d inspire a movement. He just wanted to share the practice that had transformed his life. In this episode with guest host Larry Milburn, Matt reflects on his unlikely journey from touring musician to yoga teacher to influencer and entrepreneur. You’ll learn about how Matt discovered yoga, how its benefits radiated into every area of his life, and how his relationship with a mentor helped launch his own teaching career and attract a massive online following. Matt also talks about: How yoga has made him a much better (and less injury-prone) ice hockey player What he learned from his mentor, yoga legend Marco RojasHow he went from teaching informally to leading international trainingsThe barriers that prevent more men from trying yoga and how to overcome them Links: Matt’s website, The Yogi Matt Matt’s Instagram Way of the Peaceful Warrior by Dan Millman Effortless Mastery Book

These days, yoga is a mainstream phenomenon practiced by many. But back in the 1970s, when actor and filmmaker Campbell Scott first discovered it, it was still a fringe practice associated with hippies and gurus. In this episode with guest host Larry Millburn, Campbell shares how a yoga book by Richard Hittleman nourished him physically, mentally, and spiritually. As a teenager struggling with anxiety and self-doubt, Campbell was drawn to yoga's promise of inner peace and resilience. Over the years, his practice became an anchor, and a way to stay grounded in the face of the challenges and uncertainties of life as a performing artist. Campbell also talks about: How yoga helped him quit smoking and manage the pressures of an acting careerGetting over the discomfort of being a man in female-dominated yoga spacesHow his practice has evolved over decadesHow yoga fosters a sense of presence and connectionWhy more men should give yoga a try Links: Campbell Scott's IMDb page Richard Hittleman's Yoga book Larry’s Yoga for Dudes website Way of the Empowered Man Retreat GTY Episode

Back from a couple months off with a quick update on the summer season with guest host Larry Milburn, former host of Roadie Free Radio and the online site, Yoga for Dudes. Derek and Larry share their initial thoughts from the Kripalu Yoga Center in Western Massachusetts where they just completed the Way of the Empowered Man led by frequent guest, Johnny Gillespie. The guys talk about the intense core work of the weekend, the heat, the surprisingly high turnout from guys who are totally new to yoga that joined the retreat, and offer a quick preview for the fall. Also, Derek is handing the mic to Larry as guest host for the summer as he takes paternity leave with his newborn daughter and wife. So stay tuned right for Larry’s summer interviews with some great Connecticut-based guys with more stories and offerings, and future new content and programming GTY is developing for the fall. Be sure to check out our fully redesigned website at https://www.gtypodcast.com/ for more episodes, resources and links to get your practice started. Other resources mentioned this episode: The Way of the Empowered Man retreat https://kripalu.org/presenters-programs/way-empowered-man Why Yoga Retreats Matter & The Way of the Empowered Man Yoga with Johnny Gillespie https://open.spotify.com/episode/4i6nuKnLoN9EUWscfv4rNX Larry’s website, Yoga for Dudes https://www.yogafordudes.com/

Ever wondered what it would be like to roll out a yoga mat on your lunch break and check in with your body? Today’s show was recorded at Triangle Manufacturing, a company that encourages just that. My friend and former guest Larry Milburn was brought in to start a yoga program at this medical device manufacturing firm, and today he introduces us to two company leaders who made it happen: CEO Dax Strohmeyer and VP of Finance Jeff Simon. In a way, Triangle is the perfect case study for yoga in the workplace because their team includes both people who are on their feet all day doing physical work, as well as people who work mostly seated at desks. As you’ll learn in this episode, both types of employees crave movement. And both have experienced profound benefits from these twice-weekly sessions with Larry. Triangle’s yoga program contributes to a “culture of wellness,” and it’s a model other companies would be wise to consider. The guys also talk about: How and why the company brought in Larry to teach yogaWhat yoga has done for workplace camaraderieDax’s experience with yoga as a former professional football playerJeff’s experience as a newcomer to yogaHow yoga and mindfulness make Dax a better leader Links:  Triangle Manufacturing: https://www.trianglemfg.com/Larry’s episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5MwCEEmXeWFMjEb5R35boYThe Kula Collective, where Larry teaches: https://www.thekulacollective.org/Dax’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dax-strohmeyer-6a5b171b5/Jeff’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-simon-b077b350All Guys Talking Yoga episodes: https://gtypodcast.com/

Casey McBride is a longtime yoga practitioner and teacher who specializes in working with men and young male athletes. She joins us to talk about how she found her way to that niche; common themes she sees among yoga-curious men; using props; and how yoga helps her athletes gain strength and avoid (and recover from) injuries. Casey also talks about: The “underground revolution” of young athletes using yoga to gain strength and mobilityHer advice for guys just starting out with yogaWhy your ego is the enemy of a great yoga practiceWhy physical therapy alone often doesn’t do the jobThe meaning of her mantra “do just enough” and how that mindset helps her students stay healthy Links: Casey’s InstagramKaia Yoga (Casey teaches at New Canaan and Darien)

Today we have a 3-man episode, with two friends of the show joining me to go beyond downward dog and dive into the more philosophical and contemplative side of yoga.  The subject is dharma: what it means to us, why it’s so important, and how to pursue it alongside other guys who share similar values.  Put simply, dharma is about maintaining a practice or a program that grounds you in the present and keeps you focused on what’s actually important to you. And in my experience, yoga is an extremely powerful tool do just that. Richard and Johnny also talk about: What brought them to yoga and mindfulness“Dharma bombs”: sudden moments of awarenessBringing yourself back to the moment when you’re lost in thoughtKinship and camaraderie among guys pursuing similar spiritual paths Links:  Episode 19 with Johnny GillespieEpisode 38 with Richard DriscollEmpowered Wellness Studio, Johnny’s yoga studio

Ever wondered why I’m so motivated to spread the good word about the benefits of yoga to guys everywhere? This episode lays it all out. That’s because today the mic is turned on me, as I’m interviewed by my good friend Larry Milburn, on his excellent podcast Roadie Free Radio.  I share how it all started with an injury to a muscle I barely knew existed, which led to a lot of physical and mental pain. That’s when things got interesting… I also talk about: The injury that led me down a path of loss and growthMaking the decision to take responsibility for my own recoveryMy early experiences with Bikram yogaHow injuries from decades ago come back to haunt us guysGetting started with Iyengar yogaTraining with Alison West at Yoga UnionMy advice for getting started with yogaThe mat and props I recommend Links: ⁠Jade Yoga mat⁠ ⁠Yoga Union⁠Man Flow Yoga⁠Yoga with Adriene⁠Dark Star - Live at the Fillmore by Grateful Dead⁠⁠One Simple Thing: A New Look at the Science of Yoga and How It Can Transform Your Life⁠ by Eddie SternRoadie Free Radio⁠, which is currently on pause – but I encourage you to check out Larry’s previous episodes, which feature stories from the people working behind the scenes in the film and music industries.

Ed Harrold is a health and performance coach, yoga teacher, and the author of Life with Breath.  In this episode, he shares how he came to yoga and breathwork as a stressed-out, “broken” middle-aged guy battling physical and psychological demons; how those practices have completely transformed his health and fitness; and how you can start down the same path today. Ed also talks about: The science of breath and the dangers of shallow breathingThe anatomy of the the psoas, diaphragm, lungs, and ribcageWhere to start if you want to change the way you breatheHow he gained flexibility strictly through breathing exercisesManaging your energy throughout the day through mindful breathing Connect with Ed:  Website: www.edharrold.comEd’s book, Life with Breath: IQ + EQ = New YouEd’s Breath AS Medicine Trainings (Use code “Stream” for 20% OFF): https://www.edharrold.com/breath-medicine-elearning-trainings A Year Of Breathing (Same promo code): https://edharrold.inspire360.com/edharrold/a-year-of-breathingThe Breath Source App: https://thebreathsource.app/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ed_harrold/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/edharrold/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edharroldgobegreat/Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmYrluRdfY_Tw52C9MqlQxA

We’ve heard from a lot of guys about how yoga has helped ease their back pain, work through stress, or improve their relationships. Today’s episode has those elements, but it’s also something else entirely: the story of Darnell “Moe” Washington, a former gang member who found yoga while serving a sentence of 35 years to life in prison. It’s the third and final episode in our Prison Yoga Project series, and it’s one of the most powerful conversations we’ve had on the show. You’ll learn how Moe connected with former GTY guest James Fox while at San Quentin; the mental and physical capabilities he developed through his practice; and how yoga and mindfulness helped him gain his freedom and prepare for the rest of his life. Links:  Prison Yoga ProjectDonate to the Prison Yoga ProjectListen to Part 1 of our Prison Yoga Series with James Fox here Bill Brown here

Bill Brown was 41 years old when he took his first yoga class, and the experience moved him to tears. You’ll hear why in this conversation, as well as how Bill wound up directing an organization that brings yoga to thousands of incarcerated men and women around the world. This is the second of three conversations in our Prison Yoga Project series; Bill expands on the group’s work (discussed last episode with founder James Fox) as well as his own compelling personal story. Bill also talks about: How yoga can help people with trauma and dissociationGaining trust when facilitating yoga classes in prisons and jailsHow stress builds in the body over time and how yoga can help guys work through thatHow yoga helped Bill deal with anger in a much healthier wayUsing the force of the ground in your yoga practiceHow Prison Yoga Project has scaled and has even begun working with corrections officers and other staff Links: Prison Yoga ProjectSupport PYP’s work with a donation here

James Fox is the Founding Director of Prison Yoga Project, which he started in San Quentin and grew to 17 states and beyond. In part one of a three-part series on prison yoga, James tells Derek about the program's origins (he started in a single juvenile detention center); the unique challenges and opportunities involved; and the story of a participant whose rehabilitation and parole was inextricably linked with the yoga practice he learned while behind bars. James also talks about: How yoga helped him get over back pain from runningHow Prison Yoga Project scaled through word of mouth, teacher training, and their book How men and women in prison tend to react to first trying yogaThe trauma-informed approach they've developedThe role yoga played in a parole hearing for a participant serving a life sentence Links: Prison Yoga Project is doing their annual fundraising drive. You can donate to the program directly here: https://prisonyoga.kindful.com We'll be back with two more episodes focusing on yoga in prisons in the coming weeks.

Friend of the show Johnny Gillespie joins Derek to talk about the men's yoga retreat he's hosting in February, called "The Way of the Empowered Man." Johnny is a certified meditation and yoga teacher and the founder of Empowered Wellness Studio. He's also run about 30 retreats in his career. Johnny and Derek talk about: The value of retreats and why there aren't many yoga retreats for menThe activities and schedule at a yoga retreatHow yoga can complement weightlifting and other fitness regimens rather than replacing themThe concept of the "Empowered Man" The Kripalu Yoga Center in Western Massachusetts, where Johnny's retreat will be held Sign up for The Way of the Empowered Man Yoga Retreat here: https://kripalu.org/presenters-programs/way-empowered-man Learn more about Johnny's studio, Empowered Wellness, here: https://www.empoweredwellnessstudio.com or on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/empoweredwellnessstudio Johny's previous appearances on Guys Talking Yoga: Discovering Yoga with Johnny Gillespie and Neil TaylorAwareness, Healing and Figuring Life Out Through the Whole-Body Experience

In 2017 Derek sought out Alison West, one of the most recognized and respected yoga instructors in the industry, for his 200-hour teaching certification and his first step out of the pain, tension, and overall chronic imbalances that dogged him for over five years. It was Alison who helped introduce Derek to the infinite potential that yoga offers for developing agency and awareness in navigating the deep challenges with our twisted, asymmetrical, and complex bodies and tapping into the mind-body connection.  Alison West, Ph.D, E-RYT, C-IAYT is director of Yoga Union and the Yoga Union Backcare & Scoliosis Center, and has been teaching yoga for over thirty years. Prior to opening Yoga Union in 1996 she studied at the Sivananda center and at Jivamukti in New York, as well with Eddie Stern and Sri K. Pattabhi Jois in Mysore, India. During her education and path she continued studying Iyengar Yoga for alignment, working in particular with Kevin Gardiner, the late Mary Dunn, and, later, Genny Kapuler. Alison has also traveled to Pune to study with the Iyengars. She furthered her meditation studies with TKV Desikachar at a retreat at Colgate University in 1993 and went on to the Shambhala trainings in NYC. Her spiritual teachers include Ramana Maharshi and Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj. She is currently writing her first Yoga book, Yoga for Backcare, which will be followed by Yoga for Scoliosis. Connect with Alison: https://www.yogaunion.com

In this episode, Derek talks yoga with two of the most impactful college lacrosse players to emerge from upstate New York in the 1990s: his former teammate and good friend, Todd Burnham – a two-time All-American and 1993 National Champion at Hobart College; and Casey Powell, a four-time All-American and 1995 National Champion at Syracuse University. Todd Burnham is an expert litigator, entrepreneur, author, and leadership coach who is a founding partner of Burnham Law – an elite litigation firm in Colorado with a team of top-rated experienced associates and paralegals focusing on family law, civil litigation, personal injury, and many other services for those in need in the states of Colorado and Wyoming. In 2022, Todd published his best-selling book Comeback: Epic Rebound Strategies for Business or Personal Adversity, a guide on transforming trauma into triumph through his breakthrough findings and unique insight into six easy-to-execute tactics that have helped countless individuals rebound from adversity more powerful than before. For more information: https://www.toddburnham.com. Casey Powell is considered one of the best to ever play the sport of lacrosse and has spent his professional career traveling the world playing, teaching, and helping spread the game. After Syracuse, Powell become a globally-recognized athlete, playing 15 seasons professionally in the MLL and NLL, and was selected to play on four US National Teams – captaining Team USA in 2006, 2011, and in 2015. He is a member of the Upstate Lacrosse (NY) and the National Lacrosse Hall of Fame and the owner/director of CP Lacrosse which runs camps, clinics, and tournaments nationally. Along with his brothers Ryan and Michael, Casey is a founding partner of Powell Lacrosse. For more information: https://caseypowell.com.