Can you honor the roots of yoga and still pay the bills? Join me for an on-air coaching call with yoga teacher Lorine Bamberg as we explore the intersection of spirituality and commerce. Lorine is committed to embodying yoga’s ethics but faces the very real challenge of protecting her own financial health. Together, we look at the evolving responsibilities of the modern teacher, from navigating fair pricing to balancing service with self-preservation. We also explore the complex role of social justice in practice: determining when to speak up and how to hold space for global issues with integrity. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:01:13 Lorine’s story: From gym rat to yoga mat04:35 What it really takes to teach yoga full-time07:04 Navigating the ethics of pricing and the tension between service and profit21:40 Balancing leadership with humility as a teacher24:23 When and how to address social issues in class35:29 Yoga as a practice to reclaim agency EPISODE LINKS & RESOURCES: Swaying Tree Yoga Follow Lorine on Instagram @swayingtreeyoga Follow Lorine on Facebook LINKS AND RESOURCES: Follow YTR on Instagram @yoga.teacher.resource  Join the Yoga Teacher Resource email list Join the Yoga Teacher Resource Facebook Group Learn more about the Impact Club Leave a review on iTunes Ask a question for the podcast on the Yoga Teacher Resource website or on SpeakPipe

What happens when algorithms influence the public perception of yoga? Social media algorithms distort the public view of yoga and exacerbate a disconnect between yoga teachers and the people we aim to serve. In this candid discussion, Lily and I explore the challenges of teaching and practicing in the digital age. We question the viability of the "all levels" class and discuss the profound missed opportunities when yoga is 'sanitized' and divorced from the messy reality of life. Tune in for our perspective on how to use asana as a tool for cultivating deep self-understanding and agency. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:01:45 How social media platforms prioritize and amplify sexualized content05:05 Why this type of content might be contributing to a decline in yoga class attendance09:14 How the complex reality of a yoga practice is more beneficial than the sanitized version presented in the media and online10:24 An honest look at whether a single group class can truly serve “all levels”14:14 Options and free space as tools for accessibility22:51 Why home practice is a crucial space for genuine learning and self-acceptance26:13 How over-accommodating students based on assumptions can undermine their agency and stunt their growth31:03 Yoga class as an immersive experience vs a structured place to learn 33:22 Advanced asana practice as a self-aware relationship with your body  EPISODE LINKS & RESOURCES:Lily Dwyer Begg YogaFollow Lily on Instagram @lilydwyerbeggFollow Lily Dwyer Begg Yoga on Facebook   LINKS AND RESOURCES: Follow YTR on Instagram @yoga.teacher.resource  Join the Yoga Teacher Resource email list Join the Yoga Teacher Resource Facebook Group Learn more about the Impact Club Leave a review on iTunes Ask a question for the podcast on the Yoga Teacher Resource website or on SpeakPipe

Most people view "advanced asana" as a flashy, performance-based practice driven by natural talent and aesthetics. This common misconception can lead people to dismiss asana as just preparation for real yoga or treat it as a casual activity that everyone can do equally. In this episode, we explore what it means to advance as an asana practitioner and the benefits of a consistent and systematic approach. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:02:15 Defining Advanced Asana08:33 Challenge vs. Intensity in Practice16:22 The Role of Asana in a Sedentary Culture19:50 Why Basic Postures can be Harder than Advanced Postures26:27 Do Mirrors and Cameras Have a Place in Asana Practice?32:11 The Role of Home Practice and Opportunities Online EPISODE LINKS & RESOURCES:Lily Dwyer Begg YogaFollow Lily on Instagram @lilydwyerbeggFollow Lily Dwyer Begg Yoga on Facebook LINKS AND RESOURCES: Follow YTR on Instagram @yoga.teacher.resource  Join the Yoga Teacher Resource email list Join the Yoga Teacher Resource Facebook Group Learn more about the Impact Club Leave a review on iTunes Ask a question for the podcast on the Yoga Teacher Resource website or on SpeakPipe

Holly is a yoga teacher with physical limitations who has concerns about balancing her physical abilities with the needs of her students. Many of her students rely heavily on visual cues and she wonders whether she’s doing them a disservice by not being able to demonstrate everything she teaches. In this candid conversation, we explore the role of demonstration in yoga, the value of teaching with limitations, and the unspoken power dynamics between teachers and students.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:01:01 Holly's story of finding yoga and becoming a teacher03:49 Specific physical limitations and how they impact students.05:20 The balance of giving student students what they want vs what they need08:44 Student agency - who chooses whom?12:22 Vulnerability as a superpower16:11 Students who refuse to modify or use props21:08 Navigating studio expectations30:03 Final thoughts and the need for representation in yoga classes   EPISODE LINKS & RESOURCES:Holly Williams   LINKS AND RESOURCES: Follow YTR on Instagram @yoga.teacher.resource  Join the Yoga Teacher Resource email list Join the Yoga Teacher Resource Facebook Group Learn more about the Impact Club Leave a review on iTunes Ask a question for the podcast on the Yoga Teacher Resource website or on SpeakPipe

This bonus mini-episode is for anyone who feels like they're always failing at planning & goal-setting.    00:00 Why I recorded this episode 00:54 Key principles of healthy goal setting 02:42 Benefits and Drawbacks of Goal Setting - and what most people get wrong 05:51 Daily Breakdown of Map Your Year 10:10 Conclusion and Invitation to map your year imperfectly

Yoga teachers tend to find their way to teaching through passion - and that’s a beautiful thing. But passion can only take you so far: without strategy, the work you love can quickly become a hamster wheel that spins faster every year. In this episode, learn how to harness rituals and routines to bring more strategy to your business. We'll explore simple planning rituals to help you align your day-to-day actions with your values and goals.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:00:38 Why Big Picture Thinking is Not Intuitive06:24 Daily Big Picture Thinking Rituals07:57 Weekly Big Picture Thinking Rituals14:44 Quarterly Big Picture Thinking Rituals17:48 Yearly Big Picture Thinking Rituals20:55 How The Rituals Overlap & Inform Each Other   LINKS AND RESOURCES: Follow YTR on Instagram @yoga.teacher.resource  Join the Yoga Teacher Resource email list Join the Yoga Teacher Resource Facebook Group Learn more about the Impact Club Leave a review on iTunes Ask a question for the podcast on the Yoga Teacher Resource website or on SpeakPipe

Teaching yoga is a high-stress career that most people think is a cakewalk. Shar’ron is an experienced yoga teacher who moved from Santa Cruz, California to Waco, Texas during the pandemic. Since then, she’s been managing professional isolation, perfectionism, and people pleasing—and it’s led to major burnout. Our conversation delves into themes around boundaries, over-identification with your healing journey, and making your own support network as we explore what it takes to find balance and sustainability on this path.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:01:59 Starting Over as a Seasoned Teacher03:55 Burnout and Perimenopause04:42 Challenges of Running a Micro Studio07:43 Dealing with Difficult People09:01 People Pleasing and Boundaries22:24 Feeling Alone in Leadership23:35 The Importance of Collaboration24:49 Creating a Supportive Community30:56 Addressing Burnout and Boundaries31:36 Can you over-identify with your Healing Journey?39:03 Control, surrender, and teaching yoga as a path of growth   EPISODE LINKS & RESOURCES: Follow Shar'ron on Instagram @myfunctionalyoga Follow My Functional Yoga on Facebook   LINKS AND RESOURCES: Follow YTR on Instagram @yoga.teacher.resource  Join the Yoga Teacher Resource email list Join the Yoga Teacher Resource Facebook Group Learn more about the Impact Club Leave a review on iTunes Ask a question for the podcast on the Yoga Teacher Resource website or on SpeakPipe

Libby and I had a shared identity crisis at the IAYT conference in 2023. In this episode, we explore the difference between yoga therapy and yoga teaching, our journey through the 'grandfathering' certification process, and why we decided to step away from calling ourselves yoga therapists. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:01:05 Yoga Therapy: Definitions and Misunderstandings03:45 Yoga therapy trainings and certification05:47 The Promise of Yoga Therapy09:29 Are Yoga Therapy Programs worth the Investment?15:01 Magical thinking and victim blaming22:19 Community and inclusion25:30 Misinformation and quality control29:24 Recommended Yoga Therapy Programs36:16 Concluding Thoughts on Yoga and Credentials EPISODE LINKS & RESOURCES: Libby Hinsely Follow Libby on Instagram @libbyhinsleypt Follow Libby on Facebook   LINKS AND RESOURCES: Follow YTR on Instagram @yoga.teacher.resource  Join the Yoga Teacher Resource email list Join the Yoga Teacher Resource Facebook Group Learn more about the Impact Club Leave a review on iTunes Ask a question for the podcast on the Yoga Teacher Resource website or on SpeakPipe

Despite the buzz around AI and social media, word of mouth is still the most powerful tool for building a community. In this episode, Suzanne Carver, a massage therapist, yoga teacher, and pelvic health educator, shares her journey of establishing a successful practice through grassroots and word-of-mouth methods. Suzanne discusses her experiences transitioning her practice from Fort Collins, Colorado, to Nashville, Tennessee, and the changing dynamics of client attention spans. Our conversation explores effective offline strategies, the importance of personal connections, and integrating technology like text messaging to stay top of mind with clients. Suzanne also shares insights on maintaining authenticity in client communications and the challenges of building a practice in a new city.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:04:47 Moving to a New Location as An Established Teacher07:01 Why Social Media Isn’t Always the Answer14:41 Personal Touch as SuperPower16:08 Email vs. Text Messaging24:07 Boundaries and Booking Strategies28:03 The Power of Genuine Passion and Authentic Care33:09 Visibility and Professional Photos37:24 Final Thoughts and Encouragement   EPISODE LINKS & RESOURCES: Suzanne Carver Follow Suzanne on Instagram @suzannecarver Follow Suzanne on Facebook   LINKS AND RESOURCES: Follow YTR on Instagram @yoga.teacher.resource  Join the Yoga Teacher Resource email list Join the Yoga Teacher Resource Facebook Group Learn more about the Impact Club Leave a review on iTunes Ask a question for the podcast on the Yoga Teacher Resource website or on SpeakPipe

Certain retreat destinations seem to simply sell themselves. Why does this happen and how can you use this information to sell your retreats more quickly and easily? In this conversation with Lily Dwyer Begg, we explain our theory of trending and bucket list retreat locations - and how she has used it to carefully curate her portfolio of retreat destinations. You’ll also hear about how to build retreats around personal values, and why a local home-cooked meal can be more meaningful than a luxury resort. If you're looking for your retreat location to offer more than just a beautiful backdrop, this episode will help you think more intentionally about where and how to host your next retreat.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:00:00 Why location matters00:54 Definitions: Trending vs. Bucket List Locations01:33 How Social Media Influences Travel02:18 Pros and Cons of Trending Locations for Retreats05:22 Pros and Cons of Bucket List Locations for Retreats09:51 Choosing the Right Location for Your Audience11:18 Aligning Retreat Locations with Personal Values17:04 Trending Locations in Asia22:28 Trending Locations in Europe27:49 Trending Locations in Africa32:16 Trending Retreat Locations in the Caribbean43:27 Future Retreat Destinations49:18 Sources for to Keep Up with Travel Trends53:09 Final Thoughts and Resources   EPISODE LINKS & RESOURCES: Episode 271: The Power of Place: How to Choose The Right Location for Your Yoga Retreat Lily Dwyer Begg Yoga Follow Lily on Instagram @lilydwyerbegg Follow Lily on Facebook Recommended Retreat Centers PDF Retreat Roadmap   LINKS AND RESOURCES: Follow YTR on Instagram @yoga.teacher.resource  Join the Yoga Teacher Resource email list Join the Yoga Teacher Resource Facebook Group Learn more about the Impact Club Leave a review on iTunes Ask a question for the podcast on the Yoga Teacher Resource website or on SpeakPipe

Curious about the latest trends in wellness travel? Travel journalist Julie Alpine shares her insider view on the locations, themes, and experiences that are currently taking the travel world by storm. From swimming with otters in Scotland to exploring the Costa Rican jungle, we discuss what makes a location truly special for retreat leaders and attendees alike. Diving into travel trends for 2025, we cover what retreat hosts should look for when choosing a location, and how they can create unforgettable experiences. Tune in to get the inspiration you need to bring your dream retreat to life. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:01:15 Julie’s introduction to yoga and wellness01:57 The intersection of wellness and travel05:01 Why the ‘who’ is more important than the ‘where’07:46 Hot trends in wellness travel in 202513:56 Up-and-coming wellness travel destinations16:42 Exploring the elements in wellness travel23:35 The role of genuine connection in travel27:11 Conclusion and where to follow JulieEPISODE LINKS & RESOURCES: Episode 271: The Power of Place: How to Choose The Right Location for Your Yoga Retreat Follow Julie Alpine on Instagram @juliealpineofficial Recommended Retreat Centers PDF Retreat Roadmap

Thinking about leading a retreat in Bali? Tune in for this chat with yoga teacher and retreat leader Ali Temple who has been living in Bali for almost a year. Ali shares her experiences and insights about life in Bali, including the unique cultural rituals such as the Canang Sari daily offerings and the water purification ceremonies at Balinese water temples. We also cover practical tips for leading a yoga retreat in Bali, such as financial considerations, visa requirements, and must-do experiences on the island. Tune in to learn more about how to plan a successful and enriching yoga retreat in one of the world's most sought-after retreat destinations.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:00:00 Introduction to Bali's Unique Culture03:09 Choosing Bali for Yoga Retreats07:46 Cultural Practices and Spiritual Experiences11:38 Financial Considerations for Retreats16:41 Safety Tips and Local Insights21:17 Must-Do Activities in Bali26:01 Retreat Planning Challenges and Advice28:34 Visa Considerations and Final Tips30:55 Retreat Center Recommendations32:56 Final Thoughts and Contact Information   EPISODE LINKS & RESOURCES: Episode 271: The Power of Place: How to Choose The Right Location for Your Yoga Retreat Ali Temple Yoga Follow Ali on Instagram @alitempleyoga Follow Ali on Spotify: Traveling Wellnesspreneur Follow Ali on Threads  Email Ali Temple Recommended Retreat Centers PDF Retreat Roadmap LINKS AND RESOURCES: Follow YTR on Instagram @yoga.teacher.resource  Join the Yoga Teacher Resource email list Join the Yoga Teacher Resource Facebook Group Learn more about the Impact Club Leave a review on iTunes Ask a question for the podcast on the Yoga Teacher Resource website or on SpeakPipe

Have you ever thought about leading a retreat in the birthplace of yoga? This week I’m joined by Jessica Lohrey to discuss the benefits and realities of leading yoga retreats in India. From understanding the culture, working with local guides, and creating space for authentic transformation during your retreat, Jessica shares practical advice, moving personal stories, and insider tips. Whether you're planning your first retreat or just thinking about it, this episode will inspire you to explore the possibilities of hosting in India.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:00:00 Introduction: India as a Teacher01:41 First Trip to India and Initial Retreats04:46 Why India (and which students tend to be drawn there)08:50 Cultural Experiences and Challenges in India13:11 Integrating Cultural Practices into Retreats20:56 Recommended Locations and Experiences23:45 Advice for First-Time Retreat Leaders28:34 Logistics and Preparation for Retreats34:12 Conclusion and Contact Information   EPISODE LINKS & RESOURCES: Episode 271: The Power of Place: How to Choose The Right Location for Your Yoga Retreat Tree of India Follow Jessica on Instagram @jessicalohreyyoga Follow Tree of India on Instagram @treeofindia Follow Tree of India on Facebook Follow Tree of India on Youtube Email Jessica Lohrey India Yoga Retreat: Pros, Cons, and Tips PDF Recommended Retreat Centers PDF Retreat Roadmap   LINKS AND RESOURCES: Follow YTR on Instagram @yoga.teacher.resource  Join the Yoga Teacher Resource email list Join the Yoga Teacher Resource Facebook Group Learn more about the Impact Club Leave a review on iTunes Ask a question for the podcast on the Yoga Teacher Resource website or on SpeakPipe

Does your spirit crave to feel reconnected to the earth? To be surrounded by the Tramontana mountains and crystal clear waters? This week, I’m joined by retreat leader Dagmar Spremberg to talk about Mallorca, Spain. Originally overlooked as a party destination, Dagmar now calls Mallorca home and has seen its transformation into a high-end retreat paradise. Together we discuss locations like La Serrania, Son Sion, and Osa Major that offer refuge for those seeking relaxation, recharging, and a quiet connection with nature. If you’re drawn to natural beauty and calming energy, this episode explores what makes Mallorca the perfect destination for your future retreats. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:02:23 Falling in love with Mallorca05:11 Types of retreats that would work best in Mallorca06:19 Mallorca compared to other parts of Spain08:53 Pros and cons of leading retreats in Spain12:16 Recommended retreat centers14:01 Tips for avoiding the crowdEPISODE LINKS & RESOURCES: Episode 271: The Power of Place: How to Choose The Right Location for Your Yoga Retreat Dagmar Spremberg Yoga Follow Dagmar on Instagram @montezumayoga Follow Dagmar on Facebook Follow Dagmar on Youtube Retreat Roadmap LINKS AND RESOURCES: Follow YTR on Instagram @yoga.teacher.resource  Join the Yoga Teacher Resource email list Join the Yoga Teacher Resource Facebook Group Learn more about the Impact Club Leave a review on iTunes Ask a question for the podcast on the Yoga Teacher Resource website or on SpeakPipe

If the idea of coastal sunsets and pasta under the stars is calling your name, a retreat in Italy might be your perfect destination. This week I’m joined by retreat leader Pedro Luna to talk about Italy as a location for hosting a retreat. Pedro has led multiple international retreats and shares two of his favorite retreat spots: Amalfi Coast Yoga Retreats and La Dogana in Tuscany. We discuss embracing the slow-paced Italian lifestyle, and his preference for working with local partners for renting venues. This episode gives insight into the financial, cultural, and logistical challenges that come with planning abroad. If you’ve been dreaming of hosting in Italy, this episode is full of practical tips.EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:01:28 Starting a Yoga Retreat in Italy02:12 Understanding Your Ideal Client05:00 Finding Authentic Local Experiences06:39 Working with Travel Partners09:10 Financial Considerations for Italy Retreats11:50 Challenges and Tips for First-Time Retreat Leaders14:27 Recommended Retreat Centers in Italy18:02 Final Advice and Contact Information   EPISODE LINKS & RESOURCES: Episode 271: The Power of Place: How to Choose The Right Location for Your Yoga Retreat Next Level Yoga Community Follow Pedro on Instagram @yogimemes Contact Pedro Luna Retreat Roadmap LINKS AND RESOURCES: Follow YTR on Instagram @yoga.teacher.resource  Join the Yoga Teacher Resource email list Join the Yoga Teacher Resource Facebook Group Learn more about the Impact Club Leave a review on iTunes Ask a question for the podcast on the Yoga Teacher Resource website or on SpeakPipe

Clear turquoise waters, a slow-paced lifestyle, delectable food, and rich history are just a few of the features that make the Greek Islands an ideal place to lead yoga retreats. In this episode, my guest Lily Dwyer Begg and I reminisce about a retreat that she led (and I assisted) this past fall on the island of Amorgos. The conversation highlights unique elements of Greek culture and local experiences that can be integrated into a retreat. We also spill the tea on which Islands off the beaten tourist path are most highly recommended by the locals. Tune in to get the inside scoop on leading a yoga retreat in the Greek Islands. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: 02:04 Why Greece? Personal Reflections 07:03 How to Integrate Greek Culture with Your Retreat 14:20 Financial Considerations for Retreats 21:43 Potential Challenges 24:49 Choosing a Greek Island 28:08 Retreat Centers and Recommendations 37:55 Final Thoughts and Reflections   EPISODE LINKS & RESOURCES: Episode 271: The Power of Place: How to Choose The Right Location for Your Yoga Retreat Lily Dwyer Begg Yoga Follow Lily on Instagram @lilydwyerbegg Follow Lily on Facebook Retreat Roadmap   LINKS AND RESOURCES: Follow YTR on Instagram @yoga.teacher.resource  Join the Yoga Teacher Resource email list Join the Yoga Teacher Resource Facebook Group Learn more about the Impact Club Leave a review on iTunes Ask a question for the podcast on the Yoga Teacher Resource website or on SpeakPipe

If you’re considering a retreat in Mexico, tune in for inside tips from guest expert Nathania Stambouli who has led dozens of retreats there. You’ll hear about the unique aspects of different Mexican retreat locations and cultural experiences such as the Temazcal sweat lodge and Dia de los Muertos. We also explore practical considerations such as safety, tipping cultures, cash usage, and interfacing with the local population to support vendors and artisans.    EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: 00:00 Introduction and welcome 01:01 Regions of Mexico that are ideal for retreats 02:31 Student demographics and preferences 04:19 Cultural insights and local interactions 08:04 Language and logistics 09:54 Financial considerations and tipping 16:21 Activities and cultural experiences 20:29 Potential challenges and opportunities 26:38 Recommended retreat centers 30:56 Final thoughts and advice for retreat leaders   EPISODE LINKS & RESOURCES: Episode 271: The Power of Place: How to Choose The Right Location for Your Yoga Retreat SoulTribe Adventures Follow Nathania on Instagram @soultribe.adventures Follow Nathania on Facebook Free Arm Balance Training Retreat Roadmap   LINKS AND RESOURCES: Follow YTR on Instagram @yoga.teacher.resource  Join the Yoga Teacher Resource email list Join the Yoga Teacher Resource Facebook Group Learn more about the Impact Club Leave a review on iTunes Ask a question for the podcast on the Yoga Teacher Resource website or on SpeakPipe

Explore the diverse options for hosting yoga retreats in France with Corine Englander-Bombled, a seasoned yoga instructor who has lived in France for more than 20 years. Corine shares the unique appeal of various French retreat locations, from mountains to eco-villages to castles. She shares her personal journey, teaching experiences, and key tips for organizing successful retreats. Learn about the cultural nuances, financial considerations, and the importance of preparation and communication. Enjoy this detailed guide to retreats in France to inspire and inform your next adventure.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: 00:00 Introduction to Retreats in France 01:55 Guest Introduction: Corine’s Journey 04:18 First Retreat Experiences 06:56 Running Retreats in France 12:28 Cultural and Practical Considerations 20:57 Recommended Retreat Locations 24:48 The Joy of Running Retreats 26:34 Advice for New Retreat Leaders 29:39 Conclusion and Contact Information   EPISODE LINKS & RESOURCES: Episode 271: The Power of Place: How to Choose The Right Location for Your Yoga Retreat Sasa Roots Studio Lotus 333 Follow Studio Lotus 333 on Instagram @studiolotus333 Follow Corine on Instagram @corine.sasaroots Follow Corine on Facebook Retreat Roadmap   LINKS AND RESOURCES: Follow YTR on Instagram @yoga.teacher.resource  Join the Yoga Teacher Resource email list Join the Yoga Teacher Resource Facebook Group Learn more about the Impact Club Leave a review on iTunes Ask a question for the podcast on the Yoga Teacher Resource website or on SpeakPipe

Thinking of offering a retreat in Costa Rica? Dagmar Spremberg is a retreat leader who lived in Costa Rica for over 20 years. In this episode, she shares her insider’s perspective to help you speed up your planning process and avoid rookie mistakes. Topics include selecting the best time of year, dealing with climate and local wildlife, and financial considerations.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: 00:00 Introduction to the Series and Episode 01:51 Dagmar's Journey to Leading Retreats in Costa Rica 03:01 Types of Retreats and Locations in Costa Rica 07:36 Financial Considerations for Retreats in Costa Rica 09:40 Retreat Center Operations and Payments 12:42 Daily Life at a Costa Rican Retreat 15:20 Challenges and Tips for Leading Retreats in Costa Rica 18:03 The Impact of Leading Retreats 20:25 Advice for New Retreat Leaders 22:26 Conclusion and next steps   EPISODE LINKS & RESOURCES: Episode 271: The Power of Place: How to Choose The Right Location for Your Yoga Retreat Dagmar Spremberg Follow Dagmar on Instagram @montezumayoga Follow Dagmar on Facebook Follow Dagmar on Youtube Retreat Roadmap   LINKS AND RESOURCES: Follow YTR on Instagram @yoga.teacher.resource  Join the Yoga Teacher Resource email list Join the Yoga Teacher Resource Facebook Group Learn more about the Impact Club Leave a review on iTunes Ask a question for the podcast on the Yoga Teacher Resource website or on SpeakPipe

The right location can elevate a yoga retreat from excellent to unforgettable. In this episode, Mado and Lily explore the creative process of choosing a retreat location. They share real-world experiences and essential practicalities such as budgeting realistically, navigating contracts, understanding legal requirements, and site visits. Learn how to evaluate venue amenities, accessibility for all participants, the surrounding environment, and the overall atmosphere. This episode is packed with actionable advice for yoga retreat leaders but keeps the fun and joy of leading retreats front and center.    00:00 Introduction: The Impact of Location: How a thoughtful location choice impacts your retreat business over the long term 01:48 Key Considerations: Beyond the Instagram Photo: Go beyond the surface and learn essential factors most retreat planners overlook when choosing a location. 04:37 Balancing Costs & Value: Is Your Retreat Venue Worth It?: Learn how to strategically balance your budget with the value a location offers – and avoid overspending on things that don't matter. 08:08 The Key to Glowing Testimonials. How making bold decisions impacts the students you attract for a specific retreat - and their satisfaction with the experience. 11:37 The Location Selection Process: From Dream to Reality: We break down the exact steps to take, from initial brainstorming to narrowing down your top choices. 14:59 Contract Negotiation: Don't Sign Anything Until You've Heard This: Learn critical contract clauses you need to watch out for to protect yourself and your retreat. 18:22 Accessibility & Travel: Choosing a Do-able Retreat Location for your Students: Consider the budget, needs, and lifestyle of your students before choosing your retreat location. 23:18 Curating the Atmosphere: Setting the Stage for Transformation: Learn how to create an unforgettable atmosphere that aligns with your retreat theme. 27:09 Venue Evaluation: The Checklist You Can't Afford to Skip: Get an inside perspective on how experienced retreat leaders evaluate venues – including the hidden details that can make or break your retreat. 34:51 The Pros and Cons of Site Visits: When do you need them and how to adapt when they aren’t in the budget. 37:23 Final Tips & Encouragement: Your Dream Retreat is Within Reach: Leading retreats is incredibly rewarding and fun - enjoy these tips for getting started.   EPISODE LINKS & RESOURCES: Lily Dwyer Begg Follow Lily on Instagram @lilydwyerbegg Follow Lily on Facebook Stream Lily on Soundcloud Retreat Roadmap   LINKS AND RESOURCES: Follow YTR on Instagram @yoga.teacher.resource  Join the Yoga Teacher Resource email list Join the Yoga Teacher Resource Facebook Group Learn more about the Impact Club Leave a review on iTunes Ask a question for the podcast on the Yoga Teacher Resource website or on SpeakPipe