Rod Stryker on Vinyasa, Regulation & the Deeper Purpose of Yoga

In this rich and wide-ranging episode, we sit down with the legendary Rod Stryker to talk about his early days teaching in Los Angeles and how his approach to yoga has evolved over the past 40 years. From the simplicity of sequencing to the complexity of modern distractions (looking at you, phones), we explore the shifts in vinyasa and ask: what’s the point if not regulation? If not wholeness?We dive into the importance of embodying what you teach. Shouldn’t you actually practice something before you teach it? Rod thinks so. We also talk about learning to see bodies, trusting your own experience, and how to sustain your practice across the decades- letting exercise be exercise and yoga be the meditation it's intended to be, because regulating the nervous system is more important than ever.There’s a deep dive into Yoga Nidra (and yes, we teach you how to pronounce it). We explore the liminal, energizing space of yogic sleep that might just be the unsung hero of modern yoga. And of course, there are plenty of laughs along the way- including Giana calling Bradshaw out mid-show (it’s hilarious), and we wrap up with a truly funny story from Rod involving a porta-potty. Trust us, you won’t want to miss it.Connect with Rod Stryker:Website: rodstryker.comInstagram: @rodstrykerofficialYouTube: youtube.com/user/rodstrykerUse Code: FUNNYTHING for $100 any 40-hour course. Offer valid through August 1st. Sign Up For Giana’s Yoga Retreat Mentorship by June 10th- DM her on Instagram or email [email protected] RETREAT:Nicaragua Yoga Retreat for Students (February 2026): https://cayayogaschool.com/pages/nicaragua-retreatYoga Teachers Retreat: Costa Dulce, Nicaragua (MARCH 2026): https://cayayogaschool.com/pages/teachers-retreatBE PART OF OUR FUNNY FAM: https://www.cayayogaschool.com/communityPODCAST SUBSTACK: https://thefunnythingaboutyoga.substack.com/FOLLOW US:@thefunnythingaboutyoga @cayayogaschool @gianagambino @bradshawwishLINKS:https://www.cayayogaschool.com/https://www.gianayoga.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.