Yoga Teacher Chats

In today's episode, Ashley (Simonis) chats with Ashley Ribaudo of St. Louis Ashtanga Yoga (SLAY) and Expansion Therapy. Ashley shares her unconventional path from advertising school to flight attendant to physical therapy assistant to yoga teacher, mentor, and community leader.We talk about how Ashtanga first hooked her, why Mysore-style practice can be one of the most individualized and supportive ways to learn, and how injuries and life experience transformed her relationship with a once-rigid practice.Ashley also shares what it looked like to step forward when local teachers moved on, carry the torch for the St. Louis Ashtanga community, and build SLAY into the thriving space it is today. From yoga philosophy groups to myofascial release work to mentorship outside traditional systems, Ashley offers a grounded and refreshing perspective on what yoga can become when we allow it to evolve.This conversation is grounded, expansive, and inspiring for anyone curious about honoring tradition while creating a practice that truly fits real life.Connect with Ashley on social media: @ashley.ribaudo.yoga @stl.ashtanga and @expanion.therapyPractice Ashtanga with Ashley: https://www.saintlouisashtangayoga.com/Ashley offers free discovery sessions for Expansion Therapy (in person and virtually) Find out more here: https://www.expansion-therapy.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ashleysimonisyoga.substack.com

In this episode, Ashley chats with Dr. Carolyn Meister, physical therapist and founder of Expansion Therapy for a conversation that completely redefines what healing can look like.Dr. Carolyn’s work blends fascia release, breathwork, movement analysis, and energetic awareness to help people understand the deeper stories their body is holding. This isn’t just physical therapy, it’s a practice of learning how to see yourself more clearly.They talk about how the body stores lived experience, how limiting beliefs can show up as tension or pain, and how becoming aware of your patterns through the way you move, breathe, and exist can open the door to real transformation.They also explore the vulnerability of being truly seen, the importance of boundaries and energy exchange, and what it means to come back into relationship with your body in a more honest and empowered way.This conversation is powerful, confronting, and deeply supportive for anyone who is ready to move beyond surface-level healing.Connect with Dr. Carolyn on Instagram and TikTok at @dr.carolyn.meister and @expansion.therapyDr. Carolyn offers free discovery sessions (in-person and virtual). Find out more here: https://www.expansion-therapy.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ashleysimonisyoga.substack.com

In this episode, Ashley chats with one of her teachers, Patty Gorder, owner of Namaste Massage & Yoga Studio in Grafton, North Dakota.Patty shares her journey of discovering yoga as a teenager in Tucson, AZ to building a thriving yoga and wellness space in a small, rural community, one that didn’t even know it needed yoga until it arrived. They talk about what it means to follow the path when it doesn’t look the way you expected, and how practice, lineage, and community can shape not only your teaching but your life.This conversation weaves through Patty’s early experiences with yoga, her deep connection to her teachers, and the reality of owning a studio for over 17 years. We explore the role of lineage, the evolution of a practice over time, and what it really looks like to stay devoted, especially when life gets full.Patty also shares her perspective on the Yoga Alliance, holding space for students, and the importance of continuing to nourish your own practice as a teacher and studio owner.This episode is a reminder that yoga isn’t just something we do, it’s something we live. And sometimes, it becomes the thread we simply don’t let go of.Connect with Patty on social media: @pmunoz_q and @nmysndThank you for listening. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ashleysimonisyoga.substack.com

In this episode, Ashley chats with Shawna Krueger, host of the Leadership in Yoga Podcast, for a real, honest conversation about what it actually looks like to grow into your voice as a yoga teacher.Shawna shares her unconventional path into teaching, from failing her first audition to navigating imposter syndrome, injury, and the pressure to “get it right.” Together, they explore the idea that your voice is something you refine over time.. not something you have from day one.They dive into the role of mentorship, the limits of certifications, and why lived experience matters more than credentials. Shauna also opens up about her creative process, from poetry to podcasting, and how expression has become a core part of her practice and teaching.This conversation is a reminder that teaching yoga isn’t about perfection.. it’s about presence, evolution, and letting yourself be seen.Connect with Shawna on Instagram and Substack: @shawnakrugerPodcast: Leadership in Yogahttps://www.shawnakru.com/Thank you for listening. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ashleysimonisyoga.substack.com

In today's bonus episode, Ashley chats with Emily Hogan for a real, unfiltered conversation about what it actually looks like to build a career as a yoga teacher.From pay structures and class rates to the reality of being a 1099 contractor, this episode pulls back the curtain on the “yoga teacher hustle” and the gap between teacher training and real life.This conversation isn’t here to discourage, it’s here to empower you with the information you need to make informed, aligned decisions on your path. Because yes, it can work… but not by accident.Whether you’re a new or seasoned teacher, considering teacher training, or curious about turning your passion into a career, this one’s for you.Connect with Emily on social media: @hogi.theConnect with Ashley on social media: @ashleysimonisyoga and/or @homeyogamoThank you for listening. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ashleysimonisyoga.substack.com

In this episode, Ashley chats with Stephani Jungmeyer, owner of Trailside Yoga and Beyond in Fayetteville, Arkansas, to explore her journey of building and rebuilding a yoga studio rooted in community, resilience, and trust.Stephanie shares the behind-the-scenes reality of opening her studio without loans, relying on friends, family, and a whole lot of DIY spirit to bring her vision to life. What started as a grassroots effort became a space filled with genuine love because the community quite literally helped build it.After 10 years in business, Stephanie faced an unexpected challenge when her building was sold, forcing her to relocate. What followed was a fast-paced, high-stakes transition: finding, purchasing, and renovating a new space without pausing classes. In the midst of uncertainty, she leaned deeply into her yoga practice, learning to release control, trust the process, and step out of her own way.This conversation is a powerful reminder that yoga isn’t just something we teach. It’s something we live, especially when things don’t go according to plan.Connect with Stephani on social media: @mamayoga108 and @trailsideyogaVisit Trailside Yoga's website here: https://www.trailsideyoga.com/Thank you for listening. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ashleysimonisyoga.substack.com

In today's episode, Ashley sits down with Jamie for an honest and expansive conversation on what it really means to grow as a yoga teacher.They explore the evolution of practice beyond the mat, from navigating imposter syndrome and stepping away from teaching, to returning with deeper clarity, confidence, and self-trust. Jamie shares how life experiences shaped her understanding of yoga, especially the practice of letting go, and how that transformation now informs the way she teaches.This episode is a reminder that yoga isn’t about having all the answers, it’s about showing up, staying curious, and living the practice in real time.Connect with Jamie on social media: @jjobe729Thank you for listening. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ashleysimonisyoga.substack.com

In today's episode, Ashley sits down with longtime friend and teacher Lindsay Mooney to talk about the many seasons of a yoga teacher.From the early days of teacher training and studio teaching, to building her own brand, navigating motherhood, and experiencing the profound grief of losing her father, Lindsay shares how her relationship with yoga has evolved through it all.Together they explore the realities of the yoga teacher hustle, the role of community in the practice, and what it means to keep showing up when life changes the path you thought you were on.This conversation is an honest reflection on practice, identity, and learning to surrender to the unfolding of life.Connect with Lindsay on social media: @linds.moon Thank you for listening. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ashleysimonisyoga.substack.com

In today's episode, Ashley chats with teacher Bek Lokey to talk about the journey from dedicated student to teacher.Bek shares how her background in dance eventually led her to yoga, beginning with YouTube practices at home and eventually finding her way into a studio community that changed everything. What started as a personal practice to manage anxiety and reconnect with movement slowly evolved into teacher training, stepping into the front of the room, and finding her own voice as a teacher.Together, Ashley and Bek talk about the power of in-person teacher training, the importance of remaining a student of the practice, honoring the teachers who shape us, and allowing your teaching to evolve over time.This conversation is a reminder that the most meaningful teaching often begins with a deep commitment to practice first.Connect with Bek on social media: @beklokey and @yoga_with_bekJoin her for an arm balance workshop on April 4th from 1-3pm at hOMe Yoga. Register here: https://www.homeyogamo.com/scheduleThank you for listening. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ashleysimonisyoga.substack.com

In today's bonus episode, Ashley sits down with returning guest Shea Radcliff to talk about an important topic in the yoga world: yoga mats. From slippery beginner mats to high-end favorites, they break down their real-life experiences with some of the most popular brands including Manduka, Liforme, Lululemon, Jade, Prana, Alo, cork mats, and B Mat. They chat about what actually matters when choosing a mat, from grip, to durability, to thickness, sustainability, and price. They even share how investing in a quality mat can completely change your practice. Whether you're a teacher or a student, this conversation might help you find your next favorite mat (or at least save you from sliding around in Down Dog).Check out the Let's Talk Yoga Podcast episode 122 with Bmat creator Andrea McKay.Check out b,halfmoon's website: https://us.bhalfmoon.com/collections/matsFind us on social media: @ashleysimonisyoga @shearadcliff and @bhalfmoon_officialRegister for Shea's Sequencing 101 workshop at hOMe Yoga this Saturday (3/8) from 12-2pm here: https://www.homeyogamo.com/scheduleThank you for listening. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ashleysimonisyoga.substack.com

In today's episode, Ashley chats with THE LEGEND herself, Jenn Jones! Together they explore the journey from an anxious mind to a more aligned life. What began with a simple meditation practice slowly unfolded into teacher training, deep study of the mind, and a path rooted in surrender rather than control.We talk about sensitivity as strength, the role of discipline and digestive fire (on and off the mat), and what it means to trust the path before you feel fully ready. This conversation is about more than becoming a yoga teacher.. it’s about becoming yourself.Connect with Jenn on social media: @jenn.jones.stuartThank you for listening. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ashleysimonisyoga.substack.com

In todays, Ashley chats with Jamie Fuller to explore her evolution from lifelong athlete to yoga teacher, teacher trainer.Jamie shares how a devastating ski injury, back-to-back pregnancies, and the identity shift of staying home with young children unexpectedly led her back to yoga transforming her life. What began as hot vinyasa for physical recovery became community, connection, and ultimately a career.Connect with Jamie on social media: @its_jamiefullerThank you for listening. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ashleysimonisyoga.substack.com

In this bonus solo episode, Ashley shares everything coming up at hOMe Yoga in St. Peter’s, Missouri for the rest of February and into March.From our monthly SEVA supporting Marcy’s Project, to Reiki + Sound, Yoga Nidra, Ayurveda workshops, and a free nervous system workshop with Tim Applebaum, there’s a lot unfolding at the studio.She also shares a little about getting more comfortable behind the mic and her gratitude for this growing community.Thank you for listening. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ashleysimonisyoga.substack.com

In today's episode, Shannon shares a beautiful reflection on the teachers who shape us and the communities that hold us. She shares how an intimate teacher training became a family, how her mentors modeled compassion in action, and how those lessons now live on through her community work with St. Louis Yoga Collective. Shannon’s story is a reminder that the most powerful practices begin by simply showing up and grow in the presence of love.Connect with Shannon on social media: @shannonlenzen and @stlyogacollectiveSt Louis Yoga Collective's next event is 4/26! Check out their website here >>> https://www.stlyogacollective.com/Thank you for listening. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ashleysimonisyoga.substack.com

In today's episode, Kate Bee shares her journey as a lifelong student of yoga, shaped by years of study across teachers, traditions, and perspectives. We explore the difference between practicing postures and living “Big Y Yoga”, the inner work of self-study, intuition, and growth. We talk about honoring lineage without becoming rigid, why true readiness can’t be forced, and how curiosity itself might be the first sign you’re being called deeper.Find out more about Soma Via, the teacher's path and Kate Bee HERE Connect with Kate on social media: @katebee_somaviaThank you for listening. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ashleysimonisyoga.substack.com

On today's episode of Yoga Teacher Chats Lauren Milford graces us with her story and presence. This episode shares her journey from childhood movement and early yoga classes to teacher training and the unexpected call to open a studio. We talk about courage, community, divine timing, and how yoga prepares us to notice the signs guiding us forward. How sometimes the path only makes sense when you look back.Check her out on social media: @laurenmilfordyogaCheck out new yoga studio opening soon: @blackbirdyogastlhttps://www.blackbirdyogastl.com/Thank you for listening. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ashleysimonisyoga.substack.com

On today's episode of Yoga Teacher Chats Emily Hogan shares all sorts of things. We talk about the practice beyond the mat.. from staying busy and learning to be still, to community, heartbreak, and finding your voice as a teacher. A grounded conversation on Big-Y yoga, letting go, and figuring it out as we go. Connect with her on social media: @hogi.theThank you for listening. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ashleysimonisyoga.substack.com

Shannon Wheeler is on Yoga Teacher Chats today! What a treat! Shannon is an incredible teacher and human. You will feel her goodness through this episode. Follow and connect with her. You will not regret it. Connect with her on social media: @shannonwheelerartandyogaThank you for listening. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ashleysimonisyoga.substack.com

On today's episode Ashley shares all things upcoming in the month of January at hOMe Yoga!Register for any of these events hereYouth in Need wish lists:https://www.youthinneed.org/giving-volunteering/donation-drives/wish-list/ https://www.youthinneed.org/giving-volunteering/donation-drives/holiday-drive-boatload-of-toys/Reach out on social media at: ashleysimonisyoga or homeyogamoReach out via email at: [email protected] you for listening. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ashleysimonisyoga.substack.com

Episode 16 is here! Ashley gets to chat with Sarah Montross founder of Atha Yoga in Houston, TX. Sarah has been practicing yoga since 2002 and teaching since 2007. Her early roots in vinyasa evolved into a practice deeply influenced by the Iyengar method, which informs her alignment-based teaching. She honors yoga’s philosophical foundations while making them accessible and relevant for modern students. Sarah also teaches Yoga Nidra and philosophy, and has led multiple trips to India with students. Trained in New York City with 200-hour and 500-hour certifications, she brings a rich background shaped by years in publishing and extensive travel, now fully dedicated to sharing yoga with a wider community. Sarah is a WEALTH of knowledge. Connect with her on social media at: @sarah_montross_yoga and @athayogahtxATHA YOGAThank you for listening. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ashleysimonisyoga.substack.com

On today's episode (15!) of Yoga Teacher Chats Ashley gets to hang out with Hanna Naegle from Tucson, AZ. Hanna shares honest reflections on grief, lineage, and the practices that forge a teacher. They talk training through loss, being seen before self-belief, the transformative intensity of practice, and so much more. Hanna is an incredible yoga teacher and human.Connect with Hanna on social media: @hanna.heronThank you for listening. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ashleysimonisyoga.substack.com

On today's episode (14) of Yoga Teacher Chats Ashley gets to have an honest conversation with Tim Applebaum of Fox Company Yoga. Tim is an awesome dude and is very well respected in the yoga community locally and nationally! Check out his studio here: https://foxcoyoga.com/Connect with the studio on social media: @foxcoyogaFind out more about the upcoming 300 hour yoga teacher training he is leading by emailing [email protected]. It is going to be an amazing training!Thank you for listening! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ashleysimonisyoga.substack.com

On today's bonus episode (13) Ashley chats with Bre Emmert (Tuscon, AZ) again because Bre is coming to St. Louis in January to lead the Reiki Level 1 Certification Course at hOMe Yoga in St. Peters! In this episode Bre breaks down what the course entails and tells us what to expect. Spaces are VERY limited for this course! You don't want to miss this opportunity to learn from Bre.This course is three days long and takes place on Friday January 23rd from 7-8:30pm, Saturday January 24th from 10:30am-2:30pm, and Sunday January 25th from 11:45am-3:45pm.To register click here and find the schedule. Go to January 24th and click on Reiki Level 1 Certification Course. Please reach out if you have any issues. @homeyogamo or @ashleysimonisyoga on Instagram.To book a private session with Bre on Friday January 23rd click here or connect with her on Instagram @breemmert. These time slots are SUPER LIMITED!Bre was on the podcast once before. Her first episode is titled Life, Lineage, and Being with What is.Thank you for listening! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ashleysimonisyoga.substack.com

On today's episode (episode 12) Ashley gets to chat with Tess Clarkson. Tess is incredibly multifaceted, but she calls herself writer, a death doula, and a life optimizer! She's a yoga teacher and Reiki Master and this conversation was incredibly fun. Find out more about Tess here: https://tessclarkson.com/She has a retreat coming up! Find out more about that here: tessclarkson.com https://sewallhouse.com/event/navigating-your-way-through-grief-a-healing-retreat/Connect with Tess on social media @thetessclarksonThank you for listening! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ashleysimonisyoga.substack.com

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ashleysimonisyoga.substack.com

Today's episode is just Ashley sharing all things upcoming at hOMe Yoga, her yoga studio in St. Peters, MO. It is absolutely worth a listen!Find out more and register for classes and events here: www.homeyogamo.com Thank you for tuning in! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ashleysimonisyoga.substack.com

On todays episode (episode 9) Ashley gets to chat with the beautiful Bobbi Baker. We chat all things from business ownership to being a student of the practice to deciding to become a certified teacher.Find Bobbi on social media @the_bobbi_baker and @namasteyogastlNamaste Yoga is an incredible yoga studio in Kirkwood, MOThank you for listening! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ashleysimonisyoga.substack.com

In this episode Ashley gets to chat with the incredible Shea Radcliff!Connect with her on Instagram and find out where she is teaching when here: @shearadcliff You've also go to check out her vintage clothing shop here: @radcliffsradthriftsThank you for listening!!! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ashleysimonisyoga.substack.com

It was an HONOR to chat with Alex Crow on this weeks episode of Yoga Teacher Chats! This was such a fun conversation!Read her bio here: https://yogaphysics.com/about-alexandria-crow/Find Alex and all of her offerings on Instagram @alexandriacrowyoga She also has an incredible podcast! Check it out here!I am currently enrolled in her Yoga Student Training and I just recently finished her business mentorship course. They were absolutely incredible! I am about to dive into her D2R Anatomy course. I cannot recommend her courses enough!https://yogaphysics.com/Thank you for listening! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ashleysimonisyoga.substack.com

Erin Schulte has a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology, a master’s degree in School Counseling, and an undergraduate degree in Psychology and Spanish Language and Literature. She is passionate about the mental and physical well-being of others and is also a yoga instructor, as she believes the practice supports both mental and physical health.Connect with her on Instagram @erincschulte23 Thank you for listening. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ashleysimonisyoga.substack.com

Ashley shares info about November events happening at hOMe Yoga the studio she founded in St. Peters, MO.Find out more and/or sign up for events at https://www.homeyogamo.com/To connect more check out @homeyoagmo and/or @ashleysimonisyoga on Instagram.Thank you for listening. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ashleysimonisyoga.substack.com

**PLEASE NOTE** This episode discusses miscarriage, which may be difficult for some listeners (Around 42 minutes in)Bre Emmert is a yoga teacher, reiki master, spinal energetics practitioner and breathwork facilitator in Tucson, AZ.Connect with her on social media @breemmert and @prism.energeticsThank you for listening. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ashleysimonisyoga.substack.com

A chat with Lauren Floyd. Find her on Instagram @ohhey_lauren She teaches on Saturdays at 7:15am at Gall Fitness. Enjoy the episode This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ashleysimonisyoga.substack.com

Tune in every week for a new conversation. Thank you for being here! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ashleysimonisyoga.substack.com

Ashley and Kelly chat about yoga teacher trainings and the yoga alliance. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ashleysimonisyoga.substack.com