Beyond the Reformer

"You're in the service business, you're not in the teaching business."In this episode, we are joined by Phil M Jones, bestselling author of the Exactly What to Say book series (over 1 million copies sold) and one of the world's most in-demand communication and sales experts, having delivered over 3,500 presentations across 50+ countries.They explore why personality can't be taught but connection can, and what that means for Pilates teachers who think they're "not chatty people." Phil breaks down why the question "how are you" is a connection killer, and gives a simple alternative that opens up real conversation with clients instead.They unpack why the first and last five minutes of class matter more than the workout itself, why some of the most technically excellent private session teachers still lose clients, and how to build a pre-brief and debrief into every one-on-one so people actually come back.They also go deep on the business side of Pilates studios, from why membership models built on spreadsheets fail, to how studio owners can build retention and referrals by making long-term clients feel like they belong.Timestamps00:00 Intro to Phil M Jones03:47 Can personality be taught? What actually makes a great teacher06:52 Why you're in the "helping business," not the teaching business11:08 Ban the question "how are you"19:03 You are the brand: why the first 15 minutes before class matter24:33 Why 6 technically great private sessions still lost a client40:37 The three keys to reconnect with clients on the way out48:35 Building memberships around real people, not spreadsheetsIf you're enjoying the podcast, make sure you're following along so you don't miss future episodes. And feel free to share this one with someone you think would take something from it.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic's InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassSign up to Our NewsletterConnect with Phil M Jones:Phil's InstagramPhil's WebsiteExactly What to SaySign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

"We have so much more in common than we have in differences, despite what Instagram might make you think." - NicThis week's episode is a little different. Instead of one guest, Nic is looking back at 11 conversations from the podcast's first year - not ranked as a "best of," but chosen as the moments that made her stop, think, and question.Across the past year, Beyond the Reformer has brought together voices from every corner of the Pilates world - different schools, different methods, different opinions on what Pilates should even be. In this episode, Nic weaves together the conversations that stuck with her most, and finds a common thread running underneath all the differences: everyone featured is ultimately driven by the same thing - helping people feel stronger, move with more confidence, and understand their bodies a little better. It's part reflection on the show's first year, part reminder that the Pilates community has more in common than social media sometimes suggests.If you've enjoyed the podcast, the smallest things really do help us grow - subscribe on YouTube, follow on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and come find us on Instagram. Every like, comment, and share helps more people discover these conversations.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic's InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassSign up to Our NewsletterGuests Featured In This EpisodeAva Rodriguez, Tracy Ward, Shelly Power, Kath P, Alan Herdman, Yvette McGaffin, Lesley Logan, Juan Nieto, Brent Anderson, Tracy M. and Rael.Guest Episodes:Ava Rodriguez Episode 1Ava Rodriguez Episode 2Tracy WardShelly PowerKath PentecostAlan HerdmanYvette McGaffinLesley LoganJuan Nieto Brent Anderson Part 1Brent Anderson Part 2Tracy MallettRael Isacowitz Part 1Rael Isacowitz Part 2Interested in joining the September Teacher Training intake? Find all the details and book a call here.

"Just because you've got your 600 hour certificate doesn't mean you know it all. This is your beginning. This is just truly your beginning."In this episode, Nic is joined by Anita Horry, a second-generation Pilates master teacher, founder of the Anita Horry Academy, and internationally respected educator and business mentor based in Spain. With over 20 years in the industry, Anita has trained and mentored teachers across the globe and is actively involved in raising Pilates education standards through her work with the PMA and ITAP.Together they explore what it really takes to become an exceptional Pilates teacher, and why finishing a qualification is just the start of the journey. They get into the gap between what teacher training programs deliver and what the real world of teaching actually demands, from learning to read bodies effectively to the crucial role of mentorship and supervised teaching hours.They also take an honest look at the state of the industry right now, including the explosion of reformer studios, underqualified teachers being pushed onto studio floors too soon, and investors entering the space without understanding the method. And for anyone running or thinking of opening a studio, Anita brings her accountancy background to the table with a grounded conversation on fixed costs, cash flow, VAT thresholds, and why being a great teacher does not automatically make you a great business owner.Timestamps00:00 Introduction to Anita Horry 01:33 What makes an exceptional Pilates teacher 02:37 Why your qualification is just the beginning 03:15 The state of teacher training right now 04:45 Early gratification and the push to earn too soon 06:14 How Pilates changed Anita's life 13:39 Anita's training journey and lineage 21:27 Classical versus contemporary and what we should actually call Pilates 28:59 Investors, oversaturation, and studios without substance 34:53 The real numbers behind running a viable studio 45:17 Educational standards, PMA, and ITAP accreditation 55:30 Log book hours, supervised teaching, and why they matter 58:16 Quick-fire questionsIf you're enjoying the podcast, make sure you're following along so you don't miss future episodes. And feel free to share this one with someone you think would take something from it.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic's InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassSign up to Our NewsletterConnect with Anita:Anita Horry Academy WebsiteAnita Horry Academy YoutubeAnita Horry Academy InstagramAnita Horry Academy FacebookSign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens - https://mailchi.mp/ba9c00dd1d0b/56swq8a1k9Sign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

"Pilates isn't about that for me, you know? It's about really going deep, connecting these people."In this episode, we are joined by Kia, a classically trained Pilates teacher based in Los Angeles who built her entire studio out of a backyard gazebo during COVID, and has kept it that way ever since. Three reformers, a Cadillac, a tower, a wonder chair, and a waitlist - entirely by choice.They explore what it actually looks like to build a Pilates career rooted in passion rather than pressure, from how a single mat class on a hotel trip changed the direction of Kia's life, to why she completed a 650-hour classical training program and still goes back to those books today. They talk honestly about what new teachers struggle with most, why doing your own Pilates practice every single day is non-negotiable, and how to find your own voice in a method that has no single rulebook.They also get into the harder stuff - the moment at the Pilates Expo where Kia sat alone and questioned whether everything she had built was enough, the industry's money-driven boom and what it is doing to teaching standards, and why she started the Pilates Roundtable to fix the teacher loneliness nobody talks about. Plus Kia shares how she blends sound healing into her sessions, her post-client reset ritual, and why she thinks Joseph Pilates would have changed his own method a hundred times over by now.Timestamps00:31 How COVID accidentally created the studio02:23 Why Pilates felt different from anything else07:47 A 650-hour classical training program09:57 Why teachers must keep doing their own Pilates13:03 Safety, social media, and different training backgrounds14:50 What new teachers struggle with most17:32 Learning more from clients than from any course26:23 The 74% studio boom and what it means29:27 When investors and money drive the industry35:59 Blending sound healing into Pilates sessions40:01 Advice for teachers chasing trends43:40 How to find your own voice as a teacher45:25 Would Joseph Pilates have evolved the method?50:46 Why continuous learning makes better teachersIf you're enjoying the podcast, make sure you're following along so you don't miss future episodes. And feel free to share this one with someone you think would take something from it.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic's InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassSign up to Our NewsletterConnect with Kia:Kia’s InstagramKia’s WebsiteSign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens - https://mailchi.mp/ba9c00dd1d0b/56swq8a1k9Sign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

"Pilates won't lose its identity just because you learn different methods. It loses identity when you haphazardly memorize a set of exercises and think you can just teach this."In this episode, Nic is joined by Ava Rodriguez, a movement specialist, international presenter, and founder of the globally accredited Mobility Fitness Academy (MFA), recorded in person while both were in London ahead of speaking at a Reformer Pilates industry conference. Ava has spent her career training movement professionals across the world and is no stranger to BTR, making her second appearance on the show.They explore whether Pilates is losing its identity amid the current industry boom, why social media and AI are making studios sound the same, and the line between healthy diversification and diluted teaching that's lost its essence.They unpack the real gap between certification and competency, why most teacher training only gets you to the starting line, and how true continuing education means going deeper, not collecting more credentials.They also get into studio business clarity, why trying to serve everyone means standing out to no one, and finish on what actually matters in this work: helping people move, live, and function better, not just look good doing it.Timestamps00:00 Has Pilates lost its identity?02:38 The blending boom: more methods, less focus03:35 Why AI is making every studio sound the same10:45 Instructor vs. teacher: what training doesn't give you13:18 The lifelong question that makes you a better teacher17:32 Diluted messaging and losing your specialism18:49 Why you can't be a studio for everyone24:16 Change is coming. Are you on the right train?24:36 Fighting with ChatGPT on purpose34:48 What Pilates actually gives people39:38 What it really means to lose your identity44:03 What training is actually for48:13 The client told it was impossible58:09 Outcome over education1:01:50 Where the industry is heading nextIf you're enjoying the podcast, make sure you're following along so you don't miss future episodes. And feel free to share this one with someone you think would take something from it.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic's InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassSign up to Our NewsletterConnect with Ava:Ava's InstagramMove Beyond with Ava WebsiteSign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens - https://mailchi.mp/ba9c00dd1d0b/56swq8a1k9

"Until you do that, you're not a brand, you're just a transactional product within their life."In this episode, we are joined by Georgia Testa, founder of Studio 281, a fast-growing Reformer Pilates and functional fitness brand with five locations across Bedford, Milton Keynes, Ampthill, and Olney.They explore what it really takes to build a genuine community in a Pilates studio, from why customer loyalty can never be built on a transactional relationship, to the mindset shift needed to stand out in an increasingly saturated market.They unpack the current state of the Pilates industry, including how modalities like Reformer, strength training, and wellness concepts can work alongside each other rather than compete, and why brand now matters more than the product itself.They also go deeper into the realities of running and scaling a multi-location studio business, from leadership and hiring the right instructors, to the honest, unfiltered challenges of balancing motherhood, burnout, and growth.Timestamps00:00 Meeting Georgia and the origins of Studio 28100:47 Why community has become central to the studio04:12 Georgia's journey from dance to personal training to Pilates10:34 Why every modality should own its own lane13:52 Competitors vs. inspiration in a saturated market20:07 The consultant framework: building real community from scratch33:50 Scaling across multiple locations45:08 Brand over product in a crowded Pilates market47:36 Motherhood, burnout, and finding your own balance59:03 Where to find Georgia and Studio 281If you're enjoying the podcast, make sure you're following along so you don't miss future episodes. And feel free to share this one with someone you think would take something from it.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic's InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassSign up to Our NewsletterConnect with Georgia:Georgia's InstagramStudio 281 InstagramStudio 281 Website281 Training AcademySign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens - https://mailchi.mp/ba9c00dd1d0b/56swq8a1k9

"They create a business that worked for them ten years ago and they forget to move their business to work for them for the future."In this episode, Nic is joined by Caroline Copp, a Pilates teacher turned business coach for wellness entrepreneurs. Having opened and sold two studios, Caroline now helps wellness professionals build scalable businesses through her Scaling Wellness Accelerator and weekly Scaling Wellness Podcast.Together they explore one of the most common traps in the Pilates industry: accidentally building a demanding job instead of a business that supports your life. They get into why so many teachers hit a revenue ceiling, the real state of studio saturation across the UK, and why in 2026 nobody is paying for content anymore - they're paying for transformation.Caroline also shares what she would do differently opening a studio today, why your equity is the one thing you can never get back, and her framework for building and scaling a digital product the right way - test before you build, know your Island A and Island B, and stop competing with free content by adding more content.Timestamps00:59 Have Pilates teachers accidentally built a job, not a business?02:55 How Caroline came into Pilates and why it changed everything05:41 Why the Pilates industry is losing its lane11:52 Opening and selling two studios - what she learned17:44 Should you go into a business partnership?20:16 The first online product that failed and why27:18 Nobody wants your content anymore — they want transformation36:02 Teaching other teachers: the untapped opportunity37:11 How to test and scale a digital product without wasting six months42:11 Pricing for transformation, not just what feels right48:54 Why most studios are unprofitable and what to do about it52:18 Studio saturation: 6 studios to 25 in one city53:56 What Caroline would do if she opened a studio today56:36 Best business advice: most people don't get what they want58:21 Biggest mistake Pilates business owners make01:00:12 What success looks like nowIf you're enjoying the podcast, make sure you're following along so you don't miss future episodes. And feel free to share this one with someone you think would take something from it.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic's InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassSign up to Our NewsletterConnect with Caroline:Caroline’s InstagramCaroline’s WebsiteCaroline’s Scaling Wellness PodcastInterested in joining the September Teacher Training intake? Find all the details and book a call here.

"We're not gonna cue muscles to cue a movement."In this episode, Nic is joined by Shelly Power, Director of Curriculum for Polestar Pilates and one of the most respected educators in the industry. Shelly has been teaching Pilates since 1992, has led teacher trainings since 2000, and has examined and mentored Pilates teachers all over the world, including Nic herself.They explore why great teaching has no finish line, and why the best Pilates instructors stay curious long after they're certified. Shelly breaks down why cueing individual muscles ("tighten your core," "shoulders down") often works against the body instead of for it, and shares the story of a professional ballet soloist whose chronic knee pain disappeared the moment her cueing changed.They also get into the current state of the Pilates industry: the "trickle down" effect that turns founders' teaching into rigid dogma a few generations later, the pressure of the online "Pilates police," and why rushing to defend a method matters far less than actually helping the person in front of you.Timestamps00:00 Intro to Shelly Power04:17 The "trickle down theory" of Pilates dogma13:31 Teaching without shame: the "climb a tree" story17:05 Nic's exam story and what it means to be an empowering teacher29:57 Belief over anatomy: the ballet soloist's knee pain48:55 Why we need to stop cueing muscles to cue a movement1:17:56 Curiosity, beginner's mind, and Shelly's closing adviceIf you're enjoying the podcast, make sure you're following along so you don't miss future episodes. And feel free to share this one with someone you think would take something from it.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic's InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassSign up to Our NewsletterConnect with Shelly:Shelly’s Instagram Shelly’s LinkTreePolestar Pilates WebsiteInterested in joining the September Teacher Training intake? Find all the details and book a call here.

"I've been lied to my whole life. This just feels relaxing, and yet my body is starting to change."In this episode, Nic flies solo to unpack a question she gets asked constantly on her teacher trainings: why isn't harder always better?She explores what conditioned so many of us, especially in the fitness world, to believe that pushing more, harder, and faster is always the goal, and shares her own burnout story from the corporate world that led her to Pilates in the first place.Nic unpacks the difference between a Pilates instructor and a Pilates teacher, why the classical repertoire is built on mastering the fundamentals with ease before adding intensity, and why some of the most common cueing in Pilates today (think "engage your core," "zip up and hollow") doesn't actually hold up to what we now know about the body.She also reflects on lessons picked up across a year of guests on the podcast, and makes the case for why efficiency, not effort, is the real skill Pilates teaches - both on the mat and in life.Timestamps00:06 Intro: why harder isn't always better08:44 Nic's own burnout story and how Pilates changed her life12:45 Getting "practiced" at being busy, and the cost of always pushing17:32 Pilates instructor vs. Pilates teacher27:04 Adrenaline, burnout, and "I came for my bad back and stayed for my mental health"33:31 Why we shouldn't be cueing "engage your core" (and the "zip up and hollow" story)40:24 Why the end of class matters as much as the start, and closing thoughtsIf you're enjoying the podcast, make sure you're following along so you don't miss future episodes. And feel free to share this one with someone you think would take something from it.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic's InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassSign up to Our NewsletterInterested in joining the September Teacher Training intake? Find all the details and book a call here.Sign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

"The technique is less important than the person."In this episode, we are joined by Alan Herdman - the man widely credited with bringing Pilates to the UK, opening the country's first Pilates studio back in the early 1970s. After training in New York under Bob Fitzgerald, Alan returned to London and has spent the last 55 years shaping how Pilates is taught, practiced, and passed on.They explore what real teacher training looked like in the early days of Pilates, from months of apprenticeship to learning tactile cueing on real bodies, and why Alan believes the explosion in demand for teachers has made standards "a little suspect."They unpack the difference between being an instructor and being a teacher, the gaps emerging in fast-tracked training courses, and why Alan still believes you cannot learn to teach Pilates without a body in front of you.They also go deeper into the evolution of the industry, the rise of group reformer classes, the misunderstood role of flexion in modern training, and the client stories that have kept Alan teaching for over five decades.Timestamps 00:00 Alan opens the UK's first Pilates studio 03:11 How "Pilates" got its name 09:57 Training as an apprentice in New York 13:35 Bodies first, technique second 24:14 Why Alan built a network outside Pilates 25:27 Is teacher training broken? 27:53 The truth about tactile cueing 36:11 How far is too far for Pilates on social media 40:13 What Joseph Pilates would think of Pilates today 45:16 The flexion problem in modern training 48:16 What it really takes to teach a group class 57:10 Why group reformer classes aren't really teaching 58:56 The client who's been coming for 50 yearsIf you're enjoying the podcast, make sure you're following along so you don't miss future episodes. And feel free to share this one with someone you think would take something from it.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic's InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassSign up to Our NewsletterConnect with Alan:Alan Herdman Pilates WebsiteAlan Herdman Pilates Instagram Alan Herdman Pilates LinkedIn Sign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

In this episode, Nic is joined by Yvette McGaffin, co-founder of ReformRx and the driving force behind what is set to become the world's first digitally connected Reformer Pilates machine for the home.Yvette's story is one of the more remarkable in the Pilates industry right now. A professional dancer turned studio owner, she built and ran her own Reformer Pilates studios in Belfast and Edinburgh before identifying a gap that had been sitting in plain sight for decades: the reformer itself had barely changed in 50 years. What followed was years of prototyping, welding in sheds, searching Herefordshire countryside for the right designer, and eventually building a piece of equipment that's now in luxury hotels, health clubs, and studios across Europe.They explore what it actually takes to build something from scratch in the Pilates industry - the resilience, the false starts, and the moments that unlocked everything. They get into the real barriers to Reformer Pilates accessibility, from cost and intimidation to the question of who the industry thinks it's for. And they discuss where connected fitness meets Pilates, and why Yvette believes technology should make the friction fall away and leave you with just the movement.They also go deeper into what the next five to ten years could look like for the industry - and why Yvette believes Reformer Pilates is about to stop being something people add in, and start being the foundation everything else is built on.Timestamps00:27 Why the reformer hadn't changed in 50 years04:29 Yvette's journey into Pilates and professional dance06:56 Building the Reform Method and opening studios10:24 Who Reformer Pilates is really for16:45 The decision to build ReformRx19:04 Designing the reformer from scratch23:23 What the smart spine changed26:43 Should teachers be worried about at-home reformers?27:49 Why mat Pilates is harder than people think29:55 How studios are using connected reformers32:13 ReformRx in hotels and hospitality40:08 What building ReformRx taught Yvette44:40 Where to find Yvette and the Ultra One ReformerIf you're enjoying the podcast, make sure you're following along so you don't miss future episodes. And feel free to share this one with someone you think would take something from it.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic's InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassSign up to Our NewsletterConnect with YvetteYvette’s InstagramYvette’s LinkedInNordicTrack WebsiteReformRX WebsiteInterested in joining the July Teacher Training intake? Find all the details and book a call here.Sign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

"I think we're at that time where we can actually professionalize this industry, and we can have the standards that we want to set, and we can offer people careers."In this episode, we are joined by Joanne Mathews, founder and CEO of Ten Health & Fitness, one of London's longest-running Dynamic Reformer Pilates brands, now growing into franchising with Tenreformer.They explore why London's reformer studios have grown 72% in 18 months against just 50% growth in demand, and what that saturation means for studios competing on price instead of differentiation.They also dig into what it takes to build a Pilates business with longevity: going employed-only with teachers, building an in-house academy, choosing the right locations, the realities of rising costs and shrinking profitability, and Joanne's leadership philosophy after nearly two decades running studios.Timestamps 01:24 The car crash that led to her "happy accident" into Pilates03:31 Launching Ten with one borrowed reformer studio06:08 Finding a business partner and going employed-only from day one09:06 The case for professionalising the Pilates industry15:01 Training standards, VAT, and not being a recognised profession24:21 Scaling from one studio to a London-wide brand28:30 Choosing locations and franchising with Tenreformer34:24 Rising costs, big-box gyms, and the race to the bottom on price41:12 Is owning a Pilates studio still profitable?44:10 What community really means at Ten52:17 Building TenAcademy and what makes a great teacher today1:00:49 Joanne's leadership philosophy: true supportIf you're enjoying the podcast, make sure you're following along so you don't miss future episodes. And feel free to share this one with someone you think would take something from it.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic's InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassSign up to Our NewsletterConnect with Guest:Joanne Mathews InstagramTen Health & Fitness InstagramTen Health & Fitness WebsiteInterested in joining the July Teacher Training intake? Find all the details and book a call here.Sign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

"I really worry that we will lose the essence of what Pilates actually is. How much are we going to dilute it?"In this episode, Nic is joined by Tracy Ward - physiotherapist, Pilates teacher, and author of The Science of Pilates, published by DK. Tracy sits at the unique intersection of clinical practice and Pilates, bringing over 15 years of experience teaching, treating patients, and training new teachers through APPI.They explore what it really takes to understand anatomy as a Pilates teacher - not to the depth of a medical degree, but in a way that genuinely improves your cueing, your touch, and your ability to help clients feel the work in the right places. Tracy shares why she wrote The Science of Pilates and the gap she kept seeing in teacher training that inspired it.They get honest about the state of the industry right now - the social media-driven push toward dynamic, athletic content and what that means for the integrity of the practice. Both Nic and Tracy share their concern that the essence of Pilates is being diluted, and why returning to the foundations matters more than ever.They also dig into the reality of being a new teacher - the confidence challenges, finding your own voice, managing mixed-ability classes, and why the basics taught really well will always outperform a fancy class plan that doesn't land.Timestamps01:56 Why anatomy overwhelms Pilates teachers 03:21 Tracy's journey into Pilates and physiotherapy 09:52 How The Science of Pilates came about 12:03 How the book was created and illustrated 17:15 How to bring anatomy to life beyond the textbook 19:59 Finding your voice as a new teacher 27:10 Managing mixed ability classes 29:54 Language, modifications and empowering clients 37:11 Social media and what it's doing to Pilates 42:08 Common misconceptions about the body 43:49 The myth of perfect posture 44:37 Should we be blending Pilates with other modalities? 47:38 Pain, movement and what clients misunderstandIf you're enjoying the podcast, make sure you're following along so you don't miss future episodes. And feel free to share this one with someone you think would take something from it.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic's InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassSign up to Our NewsletterConnect with TracyTracy’s InstagramFreshly Centered WebsiteFreshly Centred FacebookScience of Pilates BookPilates Kids CardsJoin the Soul Pilates Retreat in Cornwall on 19 June for a weekend of movement, rest and nourishment. Find all the details here.Thinking about investing in Pilates equipment? Balanced Body are offering our listeners a special discount! Fill in the form here and mention Soul Pilates when you order.Interested in joining the July Teacher Training intake? Find all the details and book a call here.Sign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

"There is a lot of money-hungry people chasing trends with a lack of moral compass and ethics behind them."The Pilates industry is growing fast - but not always in the right direction. In this episode, Nic is joined by Katie, founder of Pilates Delivered, an Amsterdam-based at-home and private Pilates service. Katie trained comprehensively with Polestar Pilates and has been teaching for over a decade across private clients, studios, and her own business.They get straight into the hard conversation: what's actually happening with teaching standards right now, why weekend certifications are producing a generation of teachers who only know the choreography, and why loving Pilates does not make someone qualified to teach it.They also explore what separates good teachers from great ones - from personality and people skills to the ability to read a body, adapt on the spot, and never stop learning. Katie shares how expanding into sound healing, Reiki, fascia, and nervous system work has made her a more intuitive, holistic teacher - and why Pilates has always been about the whole person.And on the business side, Katie talks candidly about building a sustainable private practice from scratch in a new city, setting boundaries with clients, pricing at a premium, and designing a career entirely on her own terms.Timestamps00:00 Intro to Katie00:21 What's really happening in the Pilates industry right now01:47 Weekend certifications and the choreography problem06:17 Katie's journey into Pilates and why she chose Polestar10:13 Building Pilates Delivered: at-home Pilates in Amsterdam13:47 What clients actually want — and what keeps them coming back18:55 Expanding beyond Pilates: sound healing, Reiki, and fascia work23:17 How holistic training makes you a more intuitive teacher26:57 Pilates and wellness as complementary — not competing32:35 What actually makes a great Pilates teacher37:09 Just because you love Pilates doesn't mean you should teach it39:29 Authenticity, personality, and being exactly who you are44:04 Building a sustainable career outside the studio model49:02 Quick-fire questions50:26 Where to find KatieIf you're enjoying the podcast, make sure you're following along so you don't miss future episodes. And feel free to share this one with someone you think would take something from it.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic's InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassSign up to Our NewsletterConnect with KatiePilates Delivered InstagramPilates Delivered WebsiteKatie’s SubstackJoin the Soul Pilates Retreat in Cornwall on 19 June for a weekend of movement, rest and nourishment. Find all the details here.Thinking about investing in Pilates equipment? Balanced Body are offering our listeners a special discount! Fill in the form here and mention Soul Pilates when you order.Interested in joining the July Teacher Training intake? Find all the details and book a call here.Sign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

"Real change in your body happens from grounded, consistent work. Doing the split and a handstand is entertaining, but that's not what Pilates is about."In this episode, Nic is joined by Heather Andersen, founder of New York Pilates - one of the most recognisable reformer studio brands in the world, with nine locations across New York City and counting.Heather built New York Pilates from a basement space in Greenwich Village in 2013, at a time when group reformer classes simply didn't exist. She shares what it actually took to scale to nine studios - from building onboarding systems and maintaining consistency across locations, to the pricing mistakes and people management lessons learned the hard way.They also get into the state of the industry: why clients are confused about what Pilates even is, what separates genuine contemporary Pilates from the "Pilates adjacent" world, and why the most transformational work looks like nothing on camera.Timestamps00:23 How New York Pilates started01:37 Heather's background in ballet and early Pilates training07:14 Making the leap from teacher to studio owner13:14 Building the brand from day one14:38 Early mistakes and people management16:03 What a New York Pilates class feels like18:44 Classical vs. contemporary vs. Pilates adjacent25:20 Scaling from one studio to nine29:16 Building systems for consistency31:34 Teacher onboarding and quality management37:51 Pricing, ClassPass, and why loyalty beats volume44:34 Social media and the decision to talk about real Pilates55:22 Where to find HeatherIf you're enjoying the podcast, make sure you're following along so you don't miss future episodes. And feel free to share this one with someone you think would take something from it.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic's InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassSign up to Our NewsletterConnect with HeatherHeather’s InstagramNew York Pilates InstagramNew York Pilates WebsiteNew York Pilates Intro OfferNew York Pilates Reformer CertificationJoin the Soul Pilates Retreat in Cornwall on 19 June for a weekend of movement, rest and nourishment. Find all the details here.Thinking about investing in Pilates equipment? Balanced Body are offering our listeners a special discount! Fill in the form here and mention Soul Pilates when you order.Interested in joining the July Teacher Training intake? Find all the details and book a call here.Sign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

"I think self-acceptance and self-compassion... it's gonna keep changing and if you hear the loud stuff saying, I can't do that anymore - no." - Amy HavensIn this episode, Nic is joined by Amy Havens, a veteran Pilates educator, mentor, and movement teacher based in Santa Barbara with over 30 years of experience in the industry. Amy has trained across multiple lineages - including Fletcher, BASI, Kathy Grant, and Madeleine Black - and is widely respected as one of the most thoughtful voices in Pilates education today.They explore what it really takes to become a truly great Pilates teacher - from the qualities that no training manual can teach, like patience and compassion, to the art of learning to see and respond to the bodies in front of you. Amy shares her rich origin story, from discovering Pilates as a dance student in 1989 to becoming injured, finding healing through the work, and eventually committing to teaching as a lifelong calling.They also dig into the current state of the Pilates industry - the growing divide between fitness Pilates and the more healing-oriented tradition, the case for prerequisites before teacher training, and why mastering the fundamentals will always matter more than creative programming. Amy makes a compelling case for mentorship as the missing piece for so many new teachers, and shares what that relationship can look like when it's done well.Timestamps00:00 Intro to Amy Havens00:14 What makes a truly great Pilates teacher02:08 Learning to see and respond to different bodies04:49 Amy's origin story - discovering Pilates in college08:10 Observing from the front desk and falling in love with the work10:42 Getting cold feet before teacher training - and why that was the right call13:23 Amy's formal training with Madeleine Black at the Physical Mind Institute15:27 Learning to teach, not just to do17:34 How injury became the turning point toward teaching21:38 Why the best teachers are often those whose lives were changed by Pilates22:40 The case for prerequisites in Pilates teacher training28:13 What great mentorship actually looks like31:46 Amy as a forever student - training across multiple lineages37:06 How studying different styles shaped Amy's teaching43:29 The state of the Pilates industry - two forks in the road45:14 Fitness Pilates vs. healing Pilates - is it all Pilates?47:52 Why studio owners need to do better at describing what they offer53:00 Don't teach too much too soon - a lesson from Madeleine Black55:25 Why mastering fundamentals matters more than creative programming56:44 Quick-fire questions01:03:28 Where to find AmyIf you're enjoying the podcast, make sure you're following along so you don't miss future episodes. And feel free to share this one with someone you think would take something from it.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic's InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassSign up to Our NewsletterConnect with Amy:Move with Amy WebsiteAmy’s InstagramAmy’s FacebookAmy’s Email Pilates Anytime WebsiteJoin the Soul Pilates Retreat in Cornwall on 19 June for a weekend of movement, rest and nourishment. Find all the details here.Thinking about investing in Pilates equipment? Balanced Body are offering our listeners a special discount! Fill in the form here and mention Soul Pilates when you order.Interested in joining the July Teacher Training intake? Find all the details and book a call here.Sign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

"I cannot be of service to other people if I cannot be of service to myself."You left the corporate world for a reason. But somehow you're exhausted, resentful, and wondering why this passion-driven career feels just as relentless as the one you walked away from.Nic is joined by Audrey O'Connor - former quantity surveyor, Pilates teacher, sound healer, and wellness educator who now works with global brands like Google. Back for her second appearance, Audrey digs into what burnout actually looks like for Pilates teachers - not just tiredness, but resentment, physical symptoms, and the trap of performing busyness as a badge of honour.They get practical on morning rituals, finances, multiple revenue streams, and valuing your time before resentment does it for you. Audrey also brings in something unexpected: astrology and human design as tools for understanding why you show up the way you do - and why changing your mind is not the same as being flaky.Whether you're in the thick of burnout or starting to feel the edges of it, there's something here for you.Timestamps01:13 What burnout actually is - beyond just being tired03:50 Busyness as a badge of honour and how to recognise the patterns07:52 Vision, values, and the Pilates industry comparison trap09:02 How performance and money are connected to burnout11:12 Taking care of your body when teaching is your job13:15 Switching off on holiday (and why content creation doesn't count as rest)17:05 Rituals, routines and habit stacking23:37 Finding a ritual practice that fits your life26:07 Astrology and human design as tools for self-understanding31:34 Why Pilates teachers are particularly prone to burnout32:21 Being of service vs. sacrificing yourself34:15 Burnout, undervaluing, and our complicated relationship with money56:58 Mindset, self-worth, and why opportunities arrive when you stop chasing them58:44 If you're overwhelmed right now - start hereIf this episode resonated, share it with someone in the industry who needs to hear it. And make sure you're following along so you don't miss what's coming next.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic's InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassSign up to Our NewsletterConnect with Audrey:Audrey's Sound Healing TrainingCore State WebsiteAudrey’s InstagramThe Everyday Hero Manifesto Book Join the Soul Pilates Retreat in Cornwall on 19 June for a weekend of movement, rest and nourishment. Find all the details here.Thinking about investing in Pilates equipment? Balanced Body are offering our listeners a special discount! Fill in the form here and mention Soul Pilates when you order.Interested in joining the July Teacher Training intake? Find all the details and book a call here.Sign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

Nic is joined by Clarissa Shepherd, kids Pilates specialist, pre and postnatal educator, Club Pilates master trainer, and author of Sage Does Pilates and Babies & Barre.Clarissa's story is anything but conventional. From working in TV news and witnessing a live on-air shooting, to packing up her car with $600 and driving to Dallas, to funding her Pilates certification while working night shifts - her path to becoming a Pilates teacher is one of grit, resilience and pure determination.But what makes Clarissa's work truly unique is who she teaches. While the Pilates industry talks about being "for everyone," Clarissa noticed a glaring gap - children are almost always left out. She shares why bringing Pilates into families' lives earlier is one of the biggest untapped opportunities in the industry, and how her own experience of an absent mother during childhood became the driving force behind her mission to connect families through movement.The conversation explores how to adapt Pilates for different ages - from babies and toddlers to teenagers and everything in between - and why storytelling, play and affirmations are just as important as the repertoire. Clarissa also shares how she's training other teachers to do this work and working towards licensing her kids Pilates framework so it can reach families around the world.Timestamps00:00 Intro to Clarissa 00:32 Why families are the missing piece in Pilates 02:51 Clarissa's backstory - news, Dallas and $600 to her name 05:43 Discovering Pilates and being inspired by female leadership 09:01 Funding her certification and the sacrifices she made 13:13 Moving to Germany, becoming a mother and finding her path 16:03 How pregnancy sparked her interest in pre and postnatal Pilates 17:30 Teaching children for the first time 17:40 How to adapt Pilates for different ages and stages 20:07 Using affirmations and mentorship with teenagers 22:52 Making Pilates a game for younger children 24:18 Mommy and me classes and incorporating babies into movement 25:41 The creativity and storytelling skills kids Pilates demands 25:41 Training teachers to teach kids Pilates 44:10 Who Clarissa works with - from ballerinas to retirees 45:04 What's next for Clarissa 46:24 Quick-fire questions 48:24 Where to connect with ClarissaThanks so much to Clarissa for coming on the podcast and sharing such an honest and inspiring story. Please make sure to subscribe and rate the show 5 stars if you've been loving it - it helps the show more than you know.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic's InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassSign up to Our NewsletterConnect with Clarissa:Clarissa's InstagramPilates Mamii WebsiteYouTube: Pilates MamiiFacebook: Pilates MamiiClarissa’s Sage Does Pilates BookClarissa’s Babies & Barre BookJoin the Soul Pilates Retreat in Cornwall on 19 June for a weekend of movement, rest and nourishment. Find all the details here.Thinking about investing in Pilates equipment? Balanced Body are offering our listeners a special discount! Fill in the form here and mention Soul Pilates when you order.Interested in joining the July Teacher Training intake? Find all the details and book a call here.Sign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

"The body floats on the breath. Without the breath, we don't have a core. We don't have a centre." - Kyria SabinIn this episode, we are joined by Kyria Sabin, director of Fletcher Pilates International and one of the most respected custodians of a first-generation Pilates lineage in the world. Kyria worked directly with Ron Fletcher - a first-generation teacher who studied with Joseph and Clara Pilates and danced with Martha Graham - and has dedicated her career to preserving and evolving his approach to the method. Her path into Pilates was never planned; she was heading towards law school when a session at the Ron Fletcher Studio changed everything.Kyria and Nic explore what it truly means to carry a lineage forward, why the "classical vs contemporary" debate misses the point, and what made Ron Fletcher's approach so unique - from his movement-based philosophy to his breath-centred teaching.They take an honest look at the current state of Pilates education, the dangers of watered-down training, the rise of reformer-only studios, and what it actually takes to establish meaningful standards for the industry. And they go deeper into the spiritual dimension of Pilates - why client transformation so often shows up in relationships and sense of self first, and what Ron Fletcher would likely say if he saw where Pilates is today. (Spoiler: it's one word.)Timestamps00:00 Introduction to Kyria Sabin00:10 Carrying Ron Fletcher's legacy - responsibility and blessing04:47 What makes the Fletcher approach unique08:31 Classical vs contemporary - why the conversation misses the point12:42 Kyria's journey: from art world to Pilates15:38 How Kyria trained - the apprenticeship model17:24 Life in Tucson and accidentally staying for 35 years18:39 The gift of seeing bodies and learning to teach21:57 Taking over Fletcher Pilates International23:13 Building a cohesive studio culture and team26:35 Creating the Fletcher Pilates teacher training programme28:39 What goes into a quality Pilates education32:39 The 12-step framework that underpins the Fletcher programme34:02 Why Pilates transformation shows up in clients' lives, not just bodies38:45 What defines a high-quality teacher training programme43:55 Should reformer teachers still be comprehensively trained?56:29 What excites Kyria about the future of Pilates58:21 What concerns her about where the industry is heading01:00:22 Quick-fire questions01:02:26 Where to find KyriaIf you're enjoying the podcast, make sure you're following along so you don't miss future episodes. And feel free to share this one with someone you think would take something from it.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic's InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassSign up to Our NewsletterConnect with Kyria:Fletcher Pilates InstagramFletcher Pilates WebsiteFletcher Pilates FacebookKyria’s InstagramSign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

Beyond the Reformer turns 1!! 🥳In this special solo anniversary episode, Nic marks one full year of Beyond the Reformer by sharing her honest reflections on everything she has learned over the past year.She opens up about nearly quitting the podcast, the challenge of doing too much as a studio owner and educator, and how a year of conversations with some of the most respected Pilates professionals in the world has genuinely changed her perspective.A huge thank you to every single one of you who has supported the podcast over the past year. The community that has been built is more than anything Nic could have imagined, and she cannot wait to continue bringing you these conversations.Timestamps:00:00 Reflecting on one year of the podcast07:08 The reality of doing too much10:13 Bringing a journalism mindset into podcasting14:31 Putting yourself out there and asking for opportunities18:30 Understanding classical vs contemporary Pilates22:39 Why your personality is your superpower24:16 Finding your reason for teaching Pilates26:01 How to choose the right teacher training30:28 What presence really means in teaching35:35 Humility and the importance of continuous learning41:01 Rethinking failure and challenge in classes45:07 What’s next for the podcast and communityMake sure to subscribe to continue hearing these conversations every week, and send Nic a DM on the Beyond the Reformer Instagram page with your thoughts on this week’s episode.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic’s InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassSign up to Our NewsletterSign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

Nic is joined by Juan Nieto, a physical therapist, Polestar educator, founder of the Reformer Flow Collective and co-creator of Runty.Juan brings a completely different perspective to Pilates, movement, and coaching. Rather than focusing on perfect technique or choosing the “right” exercises, he challenges the idea that there even is a single correct way to move. Instead, he shares why expanding movement options, building awareness, and increasing variability is what truly helps people move better, reduce pain, and build resilience.The conversation explores how Pilates can act as a foundation for everything else, from running to strength training, and why it should be seen as part of a bigger movement ecosystem rather than a standalone solution.Juan shares why group classes can be more powerful than privates, how play and task-based learning can transform the way people move, and why teachers need to shift from instructing to creating environments where real learning can happen.Timestamps00:00 Intro to Juan00:37 Why Pilates should be seen as a starting point, not the end goal04:58 The challenge of getting runners into Pilates08:16 Using Pilates as effective cross-training11:30 Juan’s journey into movement and physical therapy12:27 Moving away from hands-on treatment to building client independence14:30 The opportunity for Pilates teachers in modern rehab20:33 Understanding pain, beliefs, and the nervous system23:01 Assessing movement through tasks and tendencies25:45 Why group classes can be more powerful than privates29:03 Building agency and independence in your clients31:57 Why Pilates teachers need to stop over-cueing35:03 Using play and games to improve movement and learning37:44 The Reformer Flow Collective and creative teaching45:41 Quick-fire questions49:31 Where to connect with JuanThanks so much to Juan for coming on the podcast. Please make sure to subscribe and rate the show 5 stars if you’ve been loving it, it helps the show more than you know.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic’s InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassSign up to Our NewsletterConnect with JuanJuan Nieto InstagramEmail: [email protected] Flow CollectivePolestar Pilates SpainSign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

In this episode, Nic is joined by Lesley Logan, a classical Pilates teacher, international presenter, fellow podcaster, and founder of Profitable Pilates and Online Pilates Classes.They explore what it really takes to become a great Pilates teacher, from developing the ability to observe bodies and cue effectively, to navigating imposter syndrome and finding your unique voice in the industry.They unpack the importance of having boundaries and also the current state of the Pilates industry, including gaps in teacher training, the need for mentorship, and why rushing into teaching too quickly can hold people back long term.They also go deeper into the business side of Pilates, from pricing and profitability to building a career that actually supports your life.Timestamps00:00 Intro to Lesley Logan01:32 Boundaries, burnout, and learning to say no09:59 What’s happening in the Pilates industry right now13:22 Gaps in teacher training and education15:25 Learning how to truly see bodies as a teacher18:49 Lesley’s journey into Pilates26:09 Helping clients build autonomy in their practice30:52 Owning your unique method and voice40:26 Pricing for sustainability and growth45:37 What accessibility really means in Pilates50:52 Why mentorship keeps great teachers54:05 Building multiple revenue streams57:35 Quick-fire questions59:15 Where to find LesleyIf you’re enjoying the podcast, make sure you’re following along so you don’t miss future episodes. And feel free to share this one with someone you think would take something from it.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic’s InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassSign up to Our NewsletterConnect with Lesley:Lesley Logan InstagramProfitable Pilates WebsiteOnline Pilates ClassesLesley Logan PodcastSign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

In this episode, Nic sits down with Andre Santaella, COO of Polestar Pilates and now leading Polestar UK, to explore her journey from discovering Pilates through her mum’s studio to stepping into a global leadership role.Nic and Andre discuss what truly makes a great Pilates teacher beyond just their qualifications.They also explore how to choose the right training provider, why mentorship is essential, and the importance of continuous education.To finish off they chat about how we should be viewing other studios, teachers and trainings as an opportunity to collaborate instead of think of it as competition and and how shifting this mindset can completely change your experience within the Pilates industry.Timestamps00:00 Introd to Andre01:41 Taking on Polestar UK04:53 Discovering Pilates through her mum’s studio10:55 The path from studio manager to COO16:16 What actually makes a great Pilates teacher20:52 Questions to ask when hiring teachers26:05 Learning from observing different teaching styles27:14 Choosing the right Pilates training provider33:05 The role of continuing education in Pilates37:34 Why collaboration beats competition44:02 Differences in the global Pilates industry50:22 Quick fire questionsIf you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow or subscribe so you never miss a conversation!Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic’s InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassSign up to Our NewsletterConnect with Andre:Andre Santaella InstagramPolestar Pilates UK InstagramPolestar Pilates UK WebsiteSign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

Welcome back to Part 2 of this conversation with Rael Isacowitz, founder of Basi Pilates, where Nic and Rael go deeper into the evolution of the method, the role of equipment, and what it really takes to become a great teacher in today’s industry.Rael shares the story behind designing Basi equipment and how it was created to reflect both form and function. He breaks down the Basi block system, explaining how structure can actually unlock creativity in teaching rather than limit it.The conversation also explores what it means to continue learning as a teacher, from Rael’s legacy programme to the importance of staying connected to your own practice.To finish, they have a powerful discussion around standards in the Pilates industry, the challenges of accreditation, and why crediting others in this work is essential for growth.Timestamps00:00 Welcome back to Part 201:19 Designing equipment with both form and function in mind05:59 How the Basi equipment first came to life09:08 The origins of the Basi block system13:49 Why structure actually fuels creativity in teaching15:14 The idea behind marathon mat sessions19:21 The legacy programme26:08 The difference between advanced work and performance28:25 Why Pilates needs stronger standards30:02 Attempts at accreditation in the industry35:32 The importance of crediting40:44 Changing your mind and evolving as a teacher44:49 Favourite exercises and staying connected to the work47:21 Why teachers often overdo it in their classes48:54 Habits that support a long career in Pilates52:34 Community and relationships in PilatesIf you enjoyed this episode, make sure you’re subscribed so you never miss a conversation like this.Share this episode with a fellow teacher or studio owner who would benefit from hearing this, and if you haven’t already, we’d really appreciate you leaving a rating or review. It helps more people discover the show and be part of this community.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic’s InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassSign up to Our NewsletterConnect with Rael:Rael Isacowitz InstagramBasi Pilates InstagramBasi Pilates WebsiteSign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

There are very few people in the Pilates world who have shaped the industry in the way Rael Isacowitz has.In part 1 of this conversation, Nic sits down with the founder of Basi Pilates to explore the real foundations of the method, what it means to teach with purpose, and why the future of Pilates depends on more than just choreography.From building one of the first curriculum-based teacher training programmes in the late 80s to creating a global community of educators, Rael shares the story behind Basi and the approach that continues to guide it today.This episode goes deep into the art and science of movement, the importance of flow, and how great teaching can create real change in people’s lives.Rael also shares his perspective on cueing, precision, and what separates a good instructor from a truly impactful teacher.Timestamps00:00 Introduction to Rael Isacowitz01:57 The early vision behind creating a structured Pilates curriculum04:17 What Pilates looked like in the late 80s05:05 The very first Basi teacher training group08:16 How Rael first discovered Pilates and his movement background14:08 Opening one of the first Pilates studios in California18:55 The story behind the name Basi Pilates21:26 How the Basi platform and education evolved over time25:05 The influence of yoga, dance, and giving credit in the industry30:07 Creating joyful, athletic Pilates experiences34:53 Pilates as a tool for positive change in the world39:02 What the mind body connection really means in practice42:51 Why cueing is one of the most important teaching skillsIf you loved this episode, make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss part two coming later this week.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic’s InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassSign up to Our NewsletterConnect with Rael:Rael Isacowitz InstagramBasi Pilates InstagramBasi Pilates WebsiteSign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

Are you feeling pressure to make your Pilates classes more creative but not sure where to start?We’ve seen how much you’ve been loving the solo episodes, so Nic is back today to discuss how to be more creative in your classes without losing structure or purpose.With so much inspiration coming from social media, it’s easy to feel like you need to constantly reinvent your teaching. But Nic challenges this idea and brings it back to what really matters, which is strong foundations, clear intention, and teaching that actually serves your clients.She shares how creativity in Pilates is not about adding more complexity, but about understanding movement patterns, building from the fundamentals, and creating a class experience that feels purposeful and connected.This episode will help you rethink creativity in Pilates and give you simple ways to make your classes feel fresh without losing what makes Pilates so powerful.Timestamps00:00 Why creativity in Pilates teaching is such a big topic right now02:24 Why do you feel the need to be creative?03:10 The impact of social media on Pilates classes06:18 Letting your personality shape your teaching style08:06 Teaching with intention and clear class outcomes13:06 How to break down complex exercises into simple steps16:11 Creating flow and storytelling in your classes17:44 How to layer progressions and regressions for clients20:09 Simple ways to adapt and evolve Pilates exercises24:09 Taking clients on a journey over multiple weeksIf you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow or subscribe so you never miss a new one. And let Nic know if you took anything away from this episode, she loves receiving your DMs!Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic’s InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassSign up to Our NewsletterSign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

Most Pilates studios are sitting on far more revenue potential than they realise.With the right pricing, membership strategy and business model, a single studio can grow into a multi-million-pound business without needing more space or more classes.In this episode, Nic sits down with Pilates business expert Lise Kuecker, founder of Studio Grow, to discuss what actually drives profitable Pilates studios.Lise works with hundreds of boutique fitness studios around the world and shares the real numbers behind successful studios.From pricing psychology and memberships to team structure and sales metrics, this conversation reveals the systems that help studio owners turn passion into a sustainable and scalable business.They discuss the most common mistakes studio owners make in their early years, why many studios unknowingly leak profit, and how simple adjustments to pricing or membership structure can dramatically increase revenue.Timestamps00:00 Intro to Lise01:57 How Lise first got started in Pilates and the fitness industry04:11 Early mistakes many studio owners make in their first year09:45 How successful studios protect themselves from competition11:53 The story behind how Studio Grow was created12:54 Understanding memberships and how studios actually sell them18:55 Where studios often lose money without realising22:29 How labour models and organisational structure impact profit24:12 The financial metrics every studio owner should track24:44 Pricing strategies that guide clients towards the right option27:40 Why memberships work and the psychology behind commitment29:03 What the most successful Pilates studios do differently34:22 Global boutique fitness trends and the rise of niche studios40:03 Quick-fire questionsIf you’re a pilates studio owner looking for a mastermind to help you scale, systemise, and grow your business, check out Studio Grow here for a FREE masterclass! Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic’s InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassConnect with Lise:Studio Grow WebsiteStudio Grow PodcastStudio Grow InstagramStudio Grow Free TrainingsSign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

Too often Pilates teachers feel pressure to diagnose, label or overcomplicate movement.In reality, the most powerful thing we can do is help people move with confidence.In this episode, Nic speaks with clinician, Pilates educator and biomechanics specialist Sarah Jane Walls about the role of clinical reasoning in Pilates and why simplicity is often the most effective approach.SJ shares her journey from competitive runner to Pilates teacher and clinic owner, explaining how Pilates quite literally changed her life after a serious injury in her early twenties.Since then she has spent nearly three decades studying the body, completing multiple degrees including sports therapy, podiatry and public health, and is currently completing a PhD focused on biomechanics and diagnostic ultrasound.Together they discuss what Pilates teachers really need to know when working with injuries or in rehabilitation settings.SJ explains why communication and curiosity matter more than having every answer, how to assess movement by simply getting people moving, and why the feet often hold the key to understanding pain elsewhere in the body.Timestamps00:00 Intro to SJ02:33 What clinical reasoning actually means in Pilates04:08 Trusting the Pilates method when working with complex cases05:30 SJ’s journey into Pilates10:26 Why lifelong learning is essential for movement professionals13:14 Mentors, business skills and building a successful studio15:50 Helping runners understand why they need Pilates19:40 Personalising group classes so every client feels seen27:28 Partnering with clinics and building referral relationships30:22 The value of shadowing clinicians and building referrals31:56 The most important skills for Pilates teachers working in rehab34:18 Assessing clients by getting them moving first38:57 What Pilates teachers should look for when assessing feet46:35 Correcting movement patterns from the ground up50:11 Orthotics, rehabilitation and when they are actually useful53:22 Quick-fire questionsIf you found this conversation helpful, make sure you subscribe to Beyond the Reformer so you never miss an episode.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic’s InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassConnect with SJSJ Walls InstagramThe Rehab Hub WebsiteSJ Walls LinkedInSign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

Nic sits down with Amy Jordan, founder of Pilates Addiction and creator of the WundaFormer, to explore what it really takes to build a Pilates empire without losing your purpose.From leaving a career in entertainment marketing to opening her first studio with every penny she had, Amy shares the courage, creativity and conviction behind her journey.They discuss equipment innovation, studio ownership, scaling through franchising, leadership boundaries, inclusive culture and the mindset required to grow sustainably.Amy opens up about developing new Pilates apparatus, launching revolutionary home equipment and the lessons she learned about slowing down, building strong foundations and letting go of control.She also shares her experience of facing cancer during Covid and how movement became part of her healing.This episode is for Pilates teachers, studio owners, movement educators and entrepreneurs who want to innovate, scale and lead with integrity while staying connected to the true roots of the method.Timestamps00:00 Introduction to Amy Jordan02:02 Leaving marketing and opening the first studio07:05 Taking the leap and investing everything into her business11:05 Expanding beyond the reformer14:02 Sketching and inventing the WundaFormer19:14 Opening multiple studios and building strong teams29:22 Balancing athletic flow with classical principles31:03 Reinventing props for better alignment at home35:17 Building online reach and global impact39:16 Designing a revolutionary home Pilates machine43:01 Franchising Pilates Addiction and scaling with integrity48:56 Leadership boundaries and empowering teams50:52 Reflecting on what she has created54:16 Quick fire questionsIf this conversation inspired you, please subscribe, follow and leave a review wherever you’re listening.Your support helps Beyond the Reformer grow and continue bringing you powerful conversations from across the global Pilates community.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic’s InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassConnect with Amy:Amy Jordan InstagramPilates AddictionAmy Jordan YouTubeWundaBar WebsiteSign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

Sitting all day is quietly reshaping our bodies and our confidence, and this episode explains exactly how to change that.In this conversation, Kerrie-Anne Bradley shares the story behind the Move at Your Desk Method and why she believes small, consistent movement breaks can transform not just your posture, but your mindset too.Kerrie-Anne reveals how Pilates principles can be applied in the real world, even while sitting at your desk. She and Nic explore the link between stress and posture, why “shoulders back and down” might be doing more harm than good, and how taking up more physical space can shift your confidence at work.Kerrie-Anne explains how movement improves energy, focus and productivity, and how her simple four-step system helps desk workers build sustainable movement habits without needing an hour-long workout.If you sit at a desk for hours on end, work with clients who do, or are interested in working with corporates as a Pilates teacher, this episode is for you.Timestamps00:00 Intro to Kerrie-Anne00:30 The mission behind Move at Your Desk01:37 Kerrie-Anne’s journey to discovering Pilates03:30 Discovering Pilates as a new mum and managing sciatica06:11 How Pilates creates space in the body and builds confidence10:45 Taking the leap into teacher training14:17 Mentorship lessons and making Pilates feel human and fun16:11 Creating a corporate desk movement method18:36 Common desk body patterns and rethinking good posture22:35 Bringing Pilates principles into daily desk habits24:05 Helping clients move between sessions and build accountability25:21 The four-step Move at Your Desk system explained27:37 Workplace culture and leadership that supports wellbeing29:34 How Pilates teachers can break into corporate wellness38:05 Quick-fire questions43:57 Where to connect with Kerrie-AnneIf this episode resonated with you, please subscribe to Beyond the Reformer, leave a review and share it on your socials.Your support helps us continue bringing thoughtful conversations to the Pilates community!Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic’s InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassConnect with Kerrie-Anne:Workplace WellnessInstagramSign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

We’re back with Part 2 of the amazing conversation with Dr Brent Anderson to go deeper into what is really happening behind the scenes in the Pilates world.They’re chatting about education standards and what it actually means to take responsibility as a movement professional.Brent shares why teaching principles matter more than teaching protocols, and how to assess clients based on their real goals rather than assumptions.They explore the growing conversation around Pilates governance, post Covid training standards, and the gaps that still exist in protecting both teachers and consumers.Brent also reflects on leadership, bias and how we create safe, mature learning environments in the Pilates industry.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction to Part 2 of the podcast01:06 Teaching principles over protocols and the core Polestar framework04:25 Nic’s story with Pilates08:49 Questions to uncover what a client really needs13:36 Critical reasoning and the importance of listening18:44 Bridging physiotherapy and Pilates teaching23:54 Education standards and governance35:10 Quick fire questions40:33 Defining the types of Pilates for clarity in research and practice42:23 Brent’s new podcast45:49 Bias and navigating difficult conversationsIf this episode resonated with you, make sure you’re subscribed to Beyond the Reformer so you never miss a conversation shaping the future of Pilates!Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic’s InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassConnect with Dr Brent Anderson:Polestar Pilates WebsitePolestar Pilates InstagramBrent Anderson InstagramSign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

In Part One of this incredible two part interview, Nic sits down in California with Dr. Brent Anderson, physical therapist, educator and founder of Polestar Pilates.Brent shares how science has reshaped the way Polestar teaches core control, why positive movement experiences matter more than perfection, and how Polestar Pilates was born.The conversation goes deep into the emotional and spiritual power of movement. Brent reflects on how alignment creates presence, how presence builds internal locus of control, and why Pilates has the capacity to create life changing shifts far beyond the studio.Timestamps:00:00 Introducing Dr Brent Anderson of Polestar Pilates01:41 Polestar’s culture of collaboration04:43 Blending science, compassion and evolving movement research05:29 Theory of core control08:18 Teaching reformer to mixed levels and applying the 80 percent challenge rule11:25 Swarm intelligence and precise cueing14:37 Going from novice to expert18:24 Brent’s early movement background22:24 Why Polestar was born26:24 Pilates as a catalyst for life change through body, mind and spirit alignment28:10 The power of collective presence33:09 Teaching as inquiry, mindfulness in class and internal locus of control37:35 Moving beyond dogma42:43 Subscribe for Part TwoMake sure to subscribe to the podcast so that you can be notified when Part 2 of the conversation is released.And please leave a review and share the podcast with a friend so we can continue to get amazing guests like Brent onto the podcast.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic’s InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassConnect with Dr Brent Anderson:Polestar Pilates WebsitePolestar Pilates InstagramBrent Anderson InstagramSign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

A Pilates body has nothing to do with aesthetics and everything to do with awareness, strength and freedom in your own skin.Nic sits down with Brooke Siler, author of The Pilates Body, to explore what the phrase “Pilates body” really means and why it has been so widely misunderstood.Brooke discusses her early training with Romana Kryzanowska, the direct lineage back to Joseph Pilates, and the responsibility of carrying a method forward without losing its philosophy.Brooke explains why breath is the missing piece in so much modern Pilates, the misunderstood concept of tension and release, and how true control builds empowerment in life.They explore classical vs contemporary Pilates, the explosion of reformer Pilates, why mat work is still important, and what it means to stay rooted in the method while teaching in a modern world.Timestamps00:00 Introduction to Brooke02:05 What the Pilates body means09:46 Discovering Pilates and training with Romana Kryzanowska12:09 What Romana was really like15:36 Becoming a teacher20:12 Romana’s lessons and stories about Joseph Pilates24:09 What is misinterpreted about breath and control28:31 Understanding tension and release30:36 Classical vs contemporary Pilates32:37 Breath as the foundation of powerful movement34:39 Staying true to the method during the modern Pilates boom39:21 The story behind writing and revising the book44:12 Why mat work is essential and more relevant than ever47:27 Responsibility as a teacher and Pilates for life and sport53:04 Quick fire reflections and how to work with BrookeIf you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the podcast so you never miss a conversation. Share this episode with another Pilates teacher and leave a rating and review to help more people discover the show.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic’s InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassConnect with Brooke:Brooke Siler Pilates WebsiteBrooke Siler Pilates InstagramShop The Pilates Body Revised EditionSign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

Pilates as we know it today would not exist without Kristi Cooper and the bold decision she made in 2009 to put the method online before anyone believed it would work.While in LA, Nic got the chance to visit Kristi Cooper in her gorgeous house in Santa Barbara to discuss the story behind Pilates Anytime and the evolution of online Pilates education.In 2008, at a time when YouTube videos were limited to ten minutes and Pilates was still seen as exclusive and studio based, she was asked a simple question: why not put Pilates online?They dive into Kristi’s early journey with Pilates at just 13 years old, her training with Rael Isacowitz, and her passion for preserving the lineage of the method through the Pilates Legacy Project.The conversation explores classical versus contemporary Pilates, inclusivity across styles, the rise of athletic reformer trends, and the balance between staying true to the method while responding to modern data and member demand.Timestamps00:00 Intro to Kristi01:03 The original idea behind putting Pilates online05:04 Kristi’s introduction to Pilates at 13 and how it changed her life07:00 Training with Rael Isacowitz and stepping into teacher training09:52 Launching Pilates Anytime in 200912:50 The Pilates Legacy Project and preserving the history of the method19:05 Inclusivity across classical and contemporary styles and managing industry competition23:54 Responding to trends while protecting the integrity of Pilates25:29 Building community through workshops, emails and connection26:34 Creating new content while managing a vast online library28:20 The depth of Pilates education and the challenges facing modern teachers29:09 Observation, mentorship and what makes a great Pilates instructor31:03 How teachers are selected for Pilates Anytime36:23 The educational role of online platforms in an unregulated industry40:38 The future of online Pilates42:24 Quickfire questionsIf you want to keep hearing conversations from amazing people within the industry, then please make sure to follow the podcast, rate it five stars and share it on Instagram.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic’s InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassConnect with Kristi:Pilates Anytime WebsitePilates Anytime InstagramKristi’s InstagramSign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

Pilates is EVERYWHERE right now, but not everything being labelled Pilates is safe or rooted in the original method.Nic sits down with Victoria Batha Cuomo aka the Pilates Snob, for a thought-provoking conversation about the current state of the Pilates industry.They explore how social media has both helped and harmed Pilates and why misinformation spreads so easily.Victoria explains why a lack of regulation around education has created major issues for both teachers and clients, and why safety and understanding the system as a whole matters more than trends on Instagram.They also discuss Victoria’s ‘WTF Wednesday’s’, the Pilates Transparency Project, and the original Pilates lawsuit.Episode timestamps00:00 Introducing Victoria aka The Pilates Snob00:31 How social media is shaping the Pilates industry for better and worse02:59 Victoria’s first experiences with Pilates and athletic training05:27 Becoming a Pilates teacher08:42 The realities and gaps in Pilates teacher training21:06 WTF Wednesday and calling out unsafe industry trends25:30 Common misconceptions about Pilates online29:02 What the Pilates Transparency Project is really about33:27 Breaking down the original Pilates lawsuit38:06 Where Pilates education is falling short today41:58 Pilates Snob University and mentorship for teachers46:21 Quick fire questionsThanks for tuning in to this weeks episodes! As always, if you enjoyed it, please share it with your network, rate the show 5 stars and subscribe so you never miss an episode!Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic’s InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassConnect with Victoria:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.pilates.snob/Website: https://www.thepilatessnob.comTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pilatessnobSign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

Pilates is not meant to be rushed, trendy, or reinvented every week, and this conversation explains exactly why.Nic sits down with Tracey Mallett in her California studio for an honest conversation about movement, teaching, creativity, and what it really takes to build a long and sustainable career in Pilates.They explore the evolution of Pilates, classical and contemporary work, and the challenges facing new instructors in a trend driven industry.Tracey speaks openly about confidence and trust in the teaching space, why simplicity often leads to better classes, and how understanding the foundations of the method allows for true creativity.They also discuss social media presence as a Pilates teacher, suffering from burnout, and the pressure to constantly show up online.Timestamps00:00 How Pilates first entered Tracey’s life 08:25 Building a long term career in Pilates 12:40 How the Pilates industry has changed over the years 27:42 Social media, confidence, and personal growth as a teacher 34:05 Advice for anyone wanting to show up online 39:46 Barre, Pilates fusion, and how movement has evolved 49:35 Where Pilates education is heading next 58:31 Finding balance between work, ambition, and personal life 01:00:44 Quick fire questionsIf you want to keep hearing from amazing guests like Tracey, please rate the show 5 stars and subscribe!Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic’s InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassConnect with Tracey:Tracey Mallett WebsitePilates Next EducationBootybarrePilates Barre On Demand AppTracey’s InstagramSign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

The difference between a good Pilates class and a great one often comes down to how and when you cue.After receiving such a positive response from our previous episode on class planning, Nic is back for a solo episode that goes deep into the art of cueing.Cueing completely changes the experience a client can have in a Pilates class, and Nic shares her advice on the different types of cues you can use to deepen their overall experience.She discusses verbal cues, imagery, tactile feedback, breath and observation.Nic explores why less can often be more when it comes to cueing, how to avoid overwhelming clients with information, and how thoughtful language can help people feel safer, more grounded, and more connected to their bodies.Timestamps00:00 Goals for the new year03:01 Why cueing deserves deeper attention03:53 How class structure supports better cueing04:31 Understanding cueing as an art form07:58 Using verbal cues clearly and effectively16:10 Imagery and anatomical cueing explained22:59 Exploring tactile cueing and appropriate touch27:07 Teaching through observation and presence32:55 Shifting from negative to constructive cueing35:22 The importance of noticing within a class39:01 Using breath as a flexible cueing toolIf this episode resonated with you, please follow or subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic’s InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassSign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

Teaching Pilates becomes a whole different experience when clients bring pain, injuries, and complex diagnoses into the room, and this episode shows how to handle those moments with confidence rather than fear.In this episode of Beyond the Reformer, Nic is joined by physiotherapist, Pilates teacher, and author Samantha Wood for a deep and practical conversation about teaching Pilates in rehabilitation settings.Together, they explore what it really means to support clients living with pain, injuries, chronic conditions, and complex movement histories, without stepping outside the scope of a Pilates teacher.Samantha breaks down common misconceptions around rehab-informed teaching, the role of research in Pilates, the growing evidence supporting Pilates within medical and rehabilitation settings, and how teachers can collaborate more effectively with physiotherapists, osteopaths, and doctors.Timestamps00:00 Introducing Samantha Wood01:41 How Pilates teachers can approach pain and injury with confidence04:07 Samantha’s journey into physiotherapy and discovering Pilates06:26 Why Pilates fits so well into rehabilitation work08:04 Teaching, writing, and expanding education for Pilates professionals20:12 Why research matters in Pilates and what the evidence shows25:49 The future of Pilates within medical and healthcare systems32:31 Practical approaches to client assessment35:45 Adapting sessions for chronic pain and long-term conditions38:18 Using Pilates to support autoimmune disorders39:59 Collaborating effectively with medical professionals44:03 Why continued education is essential for Pilates teachers54:50 Understanding pain and how to talk about it with clients58:16 Connecting with SamanthaIf this episode resonated with you, make sure you are subscribed to Beyond the Reformer on your favourite podcast platform.Share the episode with another Pilates teacher who works with injuries, and leave a rating or review to help these conversations reach more teachers around the world.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic’s InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassConnect with Samantha:Samantha Wood Physiotherapy WebsiteSamantha Wood Physiotherapy InstagramSamantha Wood Physiotherapy YouTubeSign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

Building a successful Pilates studio takes far more than great teaching, and this episode breaks down what truly creates long term growth, profitability, and sustainability in the Pilates industry.Nic sits down with Pilates business strategist Seran Glanfield to explore what it really takes to build a thriving and sustainable Pilates studio.They discuss the biggest mistakes studio owners make, why mindset plays such a crucial role in success, and how to shift from thinking like a teacher to stepping fully into the role of business owner.Seran explains why great teaching alone is not enough, how to stop getting distracted by competitors, and what separates studios that struggle from those that consistently grow.She shares practical insights into tracking key metrics, building a strong brand message, raising prices with confidence, and using marketing in a way that aligns with your values.Timestamps00:00 Introducing Seran Glanfield02:20 How Seran found Pilates and transitioned from finance04:33 Moving from teaching Pilates into business strategy06:15 How Pilates businesses differ across cultures around the world07:47 A deeper look at the business side of Pilates studios08:04 The most common mistakes studio owners make11:41 Traits shared by the most successful studio owners12:53 Why leadership and mindset are so important17:40 The numbers every studio owner should be tracking28:43 Approaching marketing in a way that feels aligned and intentional29:33 Why clear brand messaging makes such a big difference31:14 How to build a sustainable marketing strategy36:08 Raising prices and overcoming fear around money40:36 Mindset shifts that support long term success45:25 Future trends in the Pilates industry51:59 Quick fire questionsIf you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow or subscribe to Beyond the Reformer wherever you listen or watch.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic’s InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassConnect with Seran:Spring Three WebsiteSpring Three InstagramSpring Three FacebookSpring Three YouTubeSeran on LinkedInSpring Three Podcast on SpotifySign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

Happy New Year and welcome to part 2 of the 2025 Beyond the Reformer Recap!In this episode, Nic reflects on the lessons that emerged over the past year and how they are shaping the year ahead.Following on from part 1, this episode explores balance, burnout, education, and the realities of building a sustainable life in Pilates alongside family, teaching, and leadership.Guests such as Audrey O’Connor, Julie Driver, Rachel Hall, Amy Kellow, and Claire Sparrow share insights that go beyond movement and into how we live, teach, and lead.Timestamps:00:00 Reflections on the year04:11 Audrey O’Connor on slowing down08:56 Julie Driver on challenges in Pilates education21:20 Rachel Hall on asking for help and building a community30:31 Amy Kellow on classical versus contemporary Pilates35:19 Claire Sparrow on balancing business, teaching, and family41:04 Looking ahead to the new yearThank you so much to all the guests who came onto the podcast in 2025! If you’d like to be a guest this year, please apply here!Listen back to episodes mentioned!Audrey O’ConnorApple PodcastsSpotifyJulie DriverApple PodcastsSpotifyRachel HallApple PodcastsSpotifyAmy KellowApple PodcastsSpotifyClaire SparrowApple PodcastsSpotifySign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

Welcome to part 1 of the 2025 Beyond the Reformer Recap! Nic is reflecting on the conversations that shaped Beyond the Reformer over the past six months.What began as a 10-episode series so that Nic could tick having a podcast off her goals list, quickly grew into an ongoing show that connected teachers, studio owners, educators, and movement professionals from all corners of the Pilates community. With listeners tuning in from 94 countries, this podcast has grown bigger than Nic could have imagined.Guests such as Diane Nye, Linda Rhodes and Sarah Liston, Michael King, Jenna Zaffino, Alexander Bohlander, Christi Idavoy, Jeannie Di Bon, and Ava Rodriguez share insights that go far beyond movement alone.Timestamps:00:00 Welcome to the 2025 recap part 105:00 Diane Nye on what makes the most successful teacher08:14 Linda and Sarah on the realities of running a Pilates studio11:00 Michael King on the tapestry and method of Pilates18:39 Jenna Zaffino on what teachers in the industry need to hear right now28:05 Alexander Bohlander on mindfulness and ease in Pilates29:11 Insights from the Polestar Pilates community32:51 Christi Idavoy on Pilates being a calling36:08 Jeannie Di Bon on understanding hypermobility and EDS44:29 Ava Rodriguez on nervous system responses and teaching strategies47:50 Subscribe for part 2Want to be a guest on Beyond the Reformer in 2026? Apply here!Listen back to episodes mentioned!Diane NyeApple PodcastsSpotifyLinda Rhodes and Sarah ListonApple PodcastsSpotifyMichael KingApple PodcastsSpotifyJenna ZaffinoApple PodcastsSpotifyAlexander BohlanderApple PodcastsSpotifyChristi IdavoyApple PodcastsSpotifyJeannie Di BonApple PodcastsSpotifyAva RodriguezApple PodcastsSpotifySign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

Some Pilates studios grow because of strategy. Others grow because of community. Angela Walker has built her studio through both.This episode is a deep dive into what it really takes to grow a thriving, award winning Pilates studio outside of a big city.Angela, the owner of Align Pilates near Glasgow, shares the real story behind building a community led, wellness focused space.Angela opens up about so many important topics such as studio growth, dealing with burnout, setting boundaries with your teachers, teacher training, the pressure of social media and why community matters just as much as good teaching!Timestamps00:00 Intro to Angela Walker02:09 How Angela grew from teaching on one reformer at home to a full community studio04:02 Building a wellness centred space that clients feel connected to08:05 The realities of growth and the challenges facing modern Pilates studios11:45 Creating a supportive, balanced team culture17:34 Keeping clients engaged with classes25:01 Why Angela moved into teacher training and how she develops new instructors27:38 The community spirit behind Align29:24 Angela’s take on the state of Pilates today32:54 Social media pressures for studio owners37:16 Balancing profit and quality while running a boutique studio41:04 Being named Best Pilates Studio43:26 The future of Align and the broader Pilates industry48:04 Quick fire questionsIf you loved this conversation, follow or subscribe to Beyond the Reformer so you never miss an episode. It really helps the show reach more teachers, studio owners and Pilates lovers around the world.We will be back on the 29th of December with a new episode! Have a wonderful Christmas and thank you as always for the support on the podcast.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic’s InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassConnect with AngelaAlign Pilates InstagramAlign Pilates WebsiteSign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

Once you learn what fascia really does, you can’t unsee it in every client you work with.In this conversation, Nic sits down with movement educator and fascia expert Katherine Pentecost for a deep dive into the world of fascia and why every Pilates teacher needs to understand it.Kath shares her journey about how discovering fascia changed absolutely everything about the way she moved, cued, programmed and taught.Nic and Kath explore what fascia actually is, the biggest misconceptions teachers still have, how fascia adapts to movement, why it’s so deeply connected to whole-body wellness, and how shifting your cueing and sequencing can unlock better results for every client you work with.This episode is full of ‘aha’ moments for Pilates teachers, studio owners and anyone curious about movement, anatomy and long-term wellbeing.Timestamps:00:00 Welcome and intro to Kath01:40 What fascia is and why it matters04:48 How Kath first discovered fascia08:42 Bringing fascia awareness into Pilates13:03 Applying fascia concepts in real teaching15:29 Fascia essentials for Pilates teachers18:41 Helping clients build awareness and agency28:48 What healthy fascia looks like in movement31:34 Stories that show how adaptable fascia is32:57 When fascia becomes restricted34:38 Hydrating and releasing fascia in practice35:29 Blending fascia work with Pilates39:34 Teaching and sequencing for fascia health49:01 Where fascia education is heading next52:05 Training programmes and pathways with Kath57:10 Quickfire questionsPlease hit subscribe and rate the show ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ if you loved today’s episode!Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic’s InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassConnect with Kath:WebsiteKath’s InstagramKath’s CoursesSign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

Pain does not mean your body is broken. If you work with clients in pain or you have ever felt afraid to move, this conversation is for you.In this episode of Beyond The Reformer, Nic sits down with Pilates teacher, movement specialist and chronic pain educator Dana Karen (DK) Ciccone to explore what pain really is, how fear shapes the way we move, and why every body is meant to move.Drawing on DK’s personal journey of chronic pain, injury and rebuilding trust with her body, the conversation looks at the stories people carry into the studio and how much those stories influence their movement.Nic and DK share practical tools for teachers who work with clients in pain, including how to ask better questions, how to build psychological safety, and how to use springs and equipment intentionally to rebuild confidence.They discuss inclusivity, representation, the evolution of Pilates and the importance of teaching in a way that celebrates strength rather than limitation.Timestamps00:00 Nic’s personal updates02:07 Intro to today’s guest, DK Ciccone03:36 DK opens up about her early experiences with pain and movement07:09 How Pilates became a turning point in DK’s healing journey13:44 DK’s path into teaching and rediscovering purpose15:58 How to understand and support clients who arrive with pain27:41 What creates a safe movement experience for every body34:09 Helping clients build confidence with spring choices35:28 Why inclusivity in Pilates studios matters38:22 The boom of Pilates and how the industry is shifting43:59 Pain, fear and how language influences the way we move51:33 DK’s insights on Pilates in Scotland compared with America56:21 What the future of Pilates education needs01:03:13 Quickfire questions with DK01:04:55 Where to connect with DKIf you enjoyed this episode, follow Beyond The Reformer, share it with a friend or fellow teacher, and leave a rating so more people can discover these conversations.Nic also loves hearing your takeaways, so feel free to message on Instagram!Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic’s InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassConnect with DKMovement Remedies WebsiteCultivating Courage WorkshopMeant to Move FoundationsDK’s InstagramEmail DK: [email protected] up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

Movement becomes medicine when you learn how to truly feel it, and this conversation with Christi Idavoy shows you exactly how to teach from that place of depth, clarity and presence.Today, Nic sits down with senior Polestar Pilates educator Christi Idavoy for an inspiring conversation on movement, teaching, energy, intuition and the art of presence in the studio.Christi shares the story of how movement has shaped her life since childhood, the unexpected path that led her from yoga to Pilates, and the moment she met Brent Anderson which changed everything for her.She discusses the philosophy behind Polestar Pilates, why presence is a teachable skill, how to create safer and more transformative client experiences, and why knowing yourself always comes before guiding others.For any Pilates teacher, studio owner or movement educator, this episode will allow you to understand the deeper layers of teaching Pilates, beyond just the choreography.Timestamps:00:00 Intro to Christi Idavoy03:37 Exploring the idea of movement as medicine05:47 Christi shares her early journey into Pilates15:04 Discovering Polestar and meeting Brent Anderson20:30 Christi’s teaching philosophy and approach to education28:06 Understanding the power of presence in the studio34:05 Self discovery through movement and embodiment34:44 Balancing teaching, family life and the demands of the industry36:01 Burnout, intuition and embracing personal growth38:16 Presence, boundaries and honouring your energy40:23 The heart brain connection43:55 Practical guidance for Pilates instructors50:42 How to create a meaningful and transformative client experience56:34 Christi’s personal wellbeing and self care practices01:02:36 How to work with ChristiIf you enjoyed this episode, make sure you follow Beyond The Reformer so you never miss a conversation.Share this episode with another Pilates teacher who would love this episode and if you have a moment, leaving a quick rating or review helps the show reach even more people in our growing global community.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic’s InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassConnect with ChristiChristi Idavoy WebsiteChristi’s InstagramSign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

Few people have shaped modern Pilates education like Nichole Zuckerman. As one of Polestar Pilates’ most senior educators, Nichole has dedicated her career to deepening how teachers understand movement, presence, and the human body.Nic sits down with Nichole to explore the philosophy that has made Polestar Pilates one of the most respected education schools in the world.Nichole shares her upbringing surrounded by reformers and studio life, what it was like growing up as Brent Anderson’s daughter, and how Polestar has evolved into a global leader in Pilates education.They talk about teaching with presence, the psychology behind movement, and why developing awareness, empathy, and curiosity are essential for every Pilates teacher.This is a rich, insightful conversation for anyone who wants to teach with more depth and meaning!Timestamps00:00 Meet today’s guest Nichole Zuckerman02:53 Nichole’s role within Polestar Pilates03:48 Growing up surrounded by Pilates07:50 What defines the Polestar Pilates philosophy13:08 Challenges and misconceptions in Pilates education18:00 The value of holistic, individualised teaching28:51 Bringing a personal touch to group classes30:09 Why presence is a teacher’s most powerful skill30:56 Cultivating mindfulness inside and outside the studio35:55 Psychology, creativity, and movement freedom42:58 The global growth of Polestar Pilates51:34 Advice for aspiring Pilates instructors53:53 Quick-fire questionsIf you enjoyed this episode, hit follow on your podcast app, share it with a fellow teacher, and leave a rating or review. Every share helps this community grow and keeps these conversations reaching more Pilates educators around the world.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic’s InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassConnect with Nichole:Polestar Pilates' WebsiteSign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

Behind every powerful Pilates class is a teacher who understands subtlety. In this solo episode, Nic shares how to create classes that help clients find ease, awareness, and lasting change.After years of teaching and now educating other Pilates instructors, Nic has noticed a recurring question from listeners: what does it mean to teach with subtlety?In this episode, she breaks down the art and science of structuring a Pilates class that helps clients move with more awareness, ease, and confidence.Nic explores why starting supine allows students to unwind tension and reset their nervous system, how to layer exercises to set them up for success, and why spine articulation and standing integration are essential for taking Pilates beyond the studio and into everyday life.She also shares her philosophy on mindful cueing, unlearning old teaching habits, and how to guide clients towards noticing change.Timestamps00:00 – Understanding subtlety in Pilates teaching01:32 – How to plan and structure a balanced class03:54 – Why Nic starts most classes supine09:20 – Bringing in spine articulation and extension11:11 – Incorporating weightbearing and full-body integration12:51 – Creating a full movement experience for every client13:10 – How to layer full-body exercises effectively14:10 – Avoiding burnout through smarter class planning16:04 – Setting clients up for success, not perfection17:18 – The importance of progressions and regressions18:21 – Empowering clients to notice what feels good19:46 – Techniques for clear, mindful cueing21:51 – Finding ease even in challenging movements24:19 – Why Pilates is about being good at life, not just good at PilatesIf this episode helped you see your teaching in a new way, share it with another instructor who would love it too.You can also subscribe, leave a review, or send Nic a message with your biggest takeaway! She loves hearing how these conversations land with you.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic’s InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassSign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

In this bonus episode, Nic sits down with Balanced Body Educator LaBriece Ochsner at the Pilates Gathering in Scotland to explore how education, compassion, and clarity in teaching continue to shape the future of Pilates.LaBriece’s journey began over two decades ago in Zurich, where her first Pilates mat class revealed a method that would change her life. From teaching in Swiss fitness centres to running her own studio and becoming a global educator, she shares how her experience across cultures and languages has shaped her approach to teaching and mentoring others.Together, Nic and LaBriece dive into the emotional and psychological side of teacher training, the importance of teaching real people (not just perfect movers), and why confidence, patience, and curiosity matter more than perfection.LaBriece also opens up about balancing motherhood, studio ownership, and international education, and how Pilates can bridge the gap between fitness and deep movement work.Timestamps:00:00 – Intro to Labriece Ochsner, Balanced Body Educator01:19 – Labriece’s first encounter with Pilates in Zurich03:52 – From fitness instructor to certified teacher05:19 – How Pilates teacher training has evolved08:35 – The power of clear, simple cueing and communication15:01 – Finding balance between work, teaching, and family20:42 – The future of Pilates and integrating the fitness world24:57 – Quick-fire questionsIf this episode inspired you, please follow or subscribe to Beyond the Reformer wherever you listen to podcasts!Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic’s InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassConnect with LaBriece:WebsiteLabriece’s InstagramSign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

Nic is back with another conversation recorded live at the Pilates Gathering in Scotland. Cameron Angus and Nic explore how the worlds of physiotherapy and Pilates intertwine to create more resilient, mindful, and connected movers and teachers.With decades of experience spanning the battlefield, physiotherapy clinics, and now his own Pilates studio, Cameron shares the fascinating evolution of his work and how Pilates became central to helping people move better, recover from injury, and reconnect with their bodies.He and Nic discuss the emotional and psychological dimensions of posture and pain, why communication is the most under-taught skill in movement education, and how teachers can support clients in building awareness and confidence.Timestamps00:00 Intro to Cameron Angus01:49 How the Pilates Gathering came about03:48 From military life to Pilates studio owner08:51 The influence of physiotherapy on Pilates10:06 How Cameron got into military physio12:30 Cameron’s Pilates studio13:10 How Cameron’s teaching has evolved based on his experiences17:28 Blending the sensory side of Pilates into the biomechanical side18:01 Why a positive environment accelerates rehabilitation20:32 How posture reflects belief systems and emotional states23:38 Communication, cueing, and helping clients manage pain28:25 Reflecting on growth and professional development36:10 Quick fire questionsIf this episode inspired you, please subscribe, rate, and share it with another teacher or movement professional who would love it too. Every listen helps this community grow and continue sharing powerful conversations that take us beyond the reformer.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic’s InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassConnect with Cameron:Email: [email protected] up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.

When Michael King started teaching Pilates nearly five decades ago, there was only one studio in London, and no one could have imagined how it would grow into the worldwide practice it is today.In this inspiring conversation, Michael joins Nic live at the Pilates Gathering in Scotland to share his remarkable journey through 47 years of teaching, learning, and shaping the Pilates industry.From his early days training under Alan Herman to managing studios in London, Houston, and Los Angeles, Michael reflects on how Pilates has evolved and what has stayed the same.He shares his philosophy on education, mentorship, and the importance of keeping Pilates accessible while upholding its integrity.Nic and Michael explore how the method continues to adapt, why staying curious is the secret to longevity, and how teachers can build confidence through community and continued learning.If you have ever wondered what it was like to witness the birth of Pilates in the UK or what it takes to keep teaching for nearly 50 years, this episode will remind you why we fell in love with the method in the first place!If you loved this conversation, don’t forget to subscribe to Beyond the Reformer, rate the show, and share this episode with another teacher or Pilates lover who would be inspired by Michael’s story.Connect with Nic:Beyond the Reformer InstagramSoul Pilates InstagramSoul Pilates EducationNic’s InstagramJoin Soul at HomeBook a Pilates ClassConnect with Michael KingMK Pilates InstagramTikTokMy Academy ProSign up below to hear more about our Pilates Teacher Training Courses and to get priority access when our next course opens here.