Curious about what skills are required to be a great teacher? Tune in to learn the best practices for before, during, and after your classes!

I want to hear from you! Share your thoughts and follow the podcast on Instagram and Facebook @pilatesteachersmanual. Full show notes, episode transcription, and chapter markers can be found on the podcast website here: http://bit.ly/pilatesteachersmanual. Be sure to subscribe to the podcast for updates, and rate and review wherever you listen!  Episodes now available on YouTube: *https://bit.ly/YouTubePTM*

Email [email protected] with your feedback.   

Show Notes:

Take my prenatal workshop at the Pilates Summit on January 17! 

January 17th & 18th, 2026
The Chicago History Museum – 1601 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614
Tickets available here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/pilates-summit-tickets-1967613127832

Support the podcast:   

Get your copy of Pilates Teachers' Manual: The Book at https://book.oliviabioni.com/pilatesteachersmanual

Visit https://shop.oliviabioni.com for podcast merch! 

Visit https://links.oliviabioni.com/affiliates to take advantage of some sweet savings!

Episode Music:

Workout Dance Day EDM by Diamond_Tunes, in compliance with Pixabay's Content License (https://pixabay.com/service/license-summary/)

Listen/download: https://pixabay.com/music/dance-workout-dance-day-edm-123377/

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This episode covers strategies for building up exercises for client success by adjusting the variable of load, base of support, complexity, range of motion, and equipment settings. The benefits of starting small are numerous, and it all ties back to OPTIMAL theory. 

I want to hear from you! Share your thoughts and follow the podcast on Instagram and Facebook @pilatesteachersmanual. Full show notes, episode transcription, and chapter markers can be found on the podcast website here: http://bit.ly/pilatesteachersmanual. Be sure to subscribe to the podcast for updates, and rate and review wherever you listen!  Episodes now available on YouTube: *https://bit.ly/YouTubePTM*

Email [email protected] with your feedback.   

Show Notes:

Upcoming Prenatal Workshop Info and registration: https://buymeacoffee.com/oliviapodcasts/e/466519

You can read the OPTIMAL Theory article and listen to a conversation with the authors. This was a big game changer for me, so I'd love to talk with you about it if you're interested/confused/concerned because I was all those things! 

Here's another Pilates Teachers' Manual podcast episode discussing the article.

Support the podcast:   

Get your copy of Pilates Teachers' Manual: The Book at https://book.oliviabioni.com/pilatesteachersmanual

Visit https://shop.oliviabioni.com for podcast merch! 

Visit https://links.oliviabioni.com/affiliates to take advantage of some sweet savings!

Episode Music:

Workout Dance Day EDM by Diamond_Tunes, in compliance with Pixabay's Content License (https://pixabay.com/service/license-summary/)

Listen/download: https://pixabay.com/music/dance-workout-dance-day-edm-123377/

Support the show

In this episode, we're diving into the administrative side of the job and sharing top tips for managing your schedule, staying organized, and creating a sustainable workflow. From choosing the right scheduling system to the importance of consistent habits, we'll help you become a reliable and trusted teacher by building a system that ensures you're always on time and ready to teach. 

I want to hear from you! Share your thoughts and follow the podcast on Instagram and Facebook @pilatesteachersmanual. Full show notes, episode transcription, and chapter markers can be found on the podcast website here: http://bit.ly/pilatesteachersmanual. Be sure to subscribe to the podcast for updates, and rate and review wherever you listen!  Episodes now available on YouTube: *https://bit.ly/YouTubePTM*

Email [email protected] with your feedback.  

Show Notes:   

You can purchase the EPUB or PDF version of the book here and convert to a Kindle friendly file here: https://amazon.com/sendtokindle

Support the podcast:   

Get your copy of Pilates Teachers' Manual: The Book at https://book.oliviabioni.com/pilatesteachersmanual

Visit https://shop.oliviabioni.com for podcast merch! 

Visit https://links.oliviabioni.com/affiliates to take advantage of some sweet savings!

Episode Music:

Workout Dance Day EDM by Diamond_Tunes, in compliance with Pixabay's Content License (https://pixabay.com/service/license-summary/)

Listen/download: https://pixabay.com/music/dance-workout-dance-day-edm-123377/

Support the show

Today's episode shares effective strategies for making group classes feel personal through using your clients' names before, during, and after class. We look at what you can do to learn names and why it's important to make an effort to build community in your classes. Tune in!

I want to hear from you! Share your thoughts and follow the podcast on Instagram and Facebook @pilatesteachersmanual. Full show notes, episode transcription, and chapter markers can be found on the podcast website here: http://bit.ly/pilatesteachersmanual. Be sure to subscribe to the podcast for updates, and rate and review wherever you listen!  Episodes now available on YouTube: *https://bit.ly/YouTubePTM*

Email [email protected] with your feedback.  

Show Notes:   

You can purchase the EPUB or PDF version of the book here and convert to a Kindle friendly file here: https://amazon.com/sendtokindle

Support the podcast:   

Get your copy of Pilates Teachers' Manual: The Book at https://book.oliviabioni.com/pilatesteachersmanual

Visit https://shop.oliviabioni.com for podcast merch! 

Visit https://links.oliviabioni.com/affiliates to take advantage of some sweet savings!

Episode Music:

Workout Dance Day EDM by Diamond_Tunes, in compliance with Pixabay's Content License (https://pixabay.com/service/license-summary/)

Listen/download: https://pixabay.com/music/dance-workout-dance-day-edm-123377/

Support the show

The wonderful Keisha Brown joins me on the show today! Keisha is a Master Trainer for Club Pilates, and a Pilates teacher at several Club Pilates studios in Chicago. She shares her journey from watching Mari Winsor DVDs in the early 2000s to healing her body through movement, and now leading teacher trainings in the Midwest United States. She offers valuable advice and insights to what really makes a great teacher and how to improve your teaching. Tune in! 

I want to hear from you! Share your thoughts and follow the podcast on Instagram and Facebook @pilatesteachersmanual. Full show notes, episode transcription, and chapter markers can be found on the podcast website here: http://bit.ly/pilatesteachersmanual. Be sure to subscribe to the podcast for updates, and rate and review wherever you listen!  Episodes now available on YouTube: *https://bit.ly/YouTubePTM*

Email [email protected] with your feedback.  

Show Notes:   

Check out what Keisha is up to on Instagram @kbrownfit and take class with her in Chicago at Club Pilates River North, West Loop, and South Loop locations! 

Support the podcast:   

Get your copy of Pilates Teachers' Manual: The Book at https://book.oliviabioni.com/pilatesteachersmanual (and convert to a Kindle friendly file here: https://amazon.com/sendtokindle if you want)

Visit https://shop.oliviabioni.com for podcast merch! 

Visit https://links.oliviabioni.com/affiliates to take advantage of some sweet savings!

Episode Music:

Workout Dance Day EDM by Diamond_Tunes, in compliance with Pixabay's Content License (https://pixabay.com/service/license-summary/)

Listen/download: https://pixabay.com/music/dance-workout-dance-day-edm-123377/

Support the show

Are you a Pilates teacher feeling confident in your craft? This episode is for you! We're diving into why exploring movement outside of Pilates can make you an even better instructor and enrich your personal life.

Discover how trying new forms of movement can deepen your understanding of the body, build stronger connections with your clients, and provide fresh perspectives for your teaching. You'll learn how embracing diverse movements can help you empathize with clients' non-Pilates activities, prevent burnout, and even boost your class attendance. Plus, find out why engaging in movement purely for yourself, without the pressure of teaching, is vital for your well-being. It's time to expand your movement horizons – your clients (and your body!) will thank you.

I want to hear from you! Share your thoughts and follow the podcast on Instagram and Facebook @pilatesteachersmanual. Full show notes, episode transcription, and chapter markers can be found on the podcast website here: http://bit.ly/pilatesteachersmanual. Be sure to subscribe to the podcast for updates, and rate and review wherever you listen!  Episodes now available on YouTube: *https://bit.ly/YouTubePTM*

Email [email protected] with your feedback.  

Show Notes:   

You can purchase the EPUB or PDF version of the book here and convert to a Kindle friendly file here: https://amazon.com/sendtokindle

Support the podcast:   

Get your copy of Pilates Teachers' Manual: The Book at https://book.oliviabioni.com/pilatesteachersmanual

Visit https://shop.oliviabioni.com for podcast merch! 

Visit https://links.oliviabioni.com/affiliates to take advantage of some sweet savings!

Episode Music:

Workout Dance Day EDM by Diamond_Tunes, in compliance with Pixabay's Content License (https://pixabay.com/service/license-summary/)

Listen/download: https://pixabay.com/music/dance-workout-dance-day-edm-123377/

Support the show

Seran Glanfield, owner of Spring Three and host of The Pilates Business Podcast, joins me on the podcast this week!  We discuss the evolution of Seran's work in the past four years, highlighting her experience coaching Pilates studio owners and the growth of her podcast. Seran shares insights into her Thrive coaching program, which helps studio owners build profitable and fulfilling businesses tailored to their individual visions, including balancing work with personal life and family. The conversation also explores the current landscape of the Pilates industry, noting its significant growth, increased competition, and the importance of strong branding and strategic business development for success. Tune in!

I want to hear from you! Share your thoughts and follow the podcast on Instagram and Facebook @pilatesteachersmanual. Full show notes, episode transcription, and chapter markers can be found on the podcast website here: http://bit.ly/pilatesteachersmanual. Be sure to subscribe to the podcast for updates, and rate and review wherever you listen!  Episodes now available on YouTube: *https://bit.ly/YouTubePTM*

Email [email protected] with your feedback.  

Show Notes:   

Check out the Pilates Business Podcast with Seran here!

Interested in the Thrive program for business owners? Check it out here!

Support the podcast:   

Get your copy of Pilates Teachers' Manual: The Book at https://book.oliviabioni.com/pilatesteachersmanual 

You can purchase the EPUB or PDF version of the book above and convert it to a Kindle friendly file here: https://amazon.com/sendtokindle

Visit https://shop.oliviabioni.com for podcast merch! 

Visit https://links.oliviabioni.com/affiliates to take advantage of some sweet savings!

Episode Music:

Workout Dance Day EDM by Diamond_Tunes, in compliance with Pixabay's Content License (https://pixabay.com/service/license-summary/)

Listen/download: https://pixabay.com/music/dance-workout-dance-day-edm-123377/

Support the show

This is the second part of a crossover episode with Mara Sievers of Pilates Encyclopedia discussing Olivia's Pilates journey, how she's grown as an instructor,  and all about writing Pilates Teachers' Manual: The Book! Check out the first part here: https://youtu.be/E3CZIxyaQyQ

I want to hear from you! Share your thoughts and follow the podcast on Instagram and Facebook @pilatesteachersmanual. Full show notes, episode transcription, and chapter markers can be found on the podcast website here: http://bit.ly/pilatesteachersmanual. Be sure to subscribe to the podcast for updates, and rate and review wherever you listen!  Episodes now available on YouTube: *https://bit.ly/YouTubePTM*

Email [email protected] with your feedback.  

Show Notes:   

You can purchase the EPUB or PDF version of the book here and convert to a Kindle friendly file here: https://amazon.com/sendtokindle

Support the podcast:   

Get your copy of Pilates Teachers' Manual: The Book at https://book.oliviabioni.com/pilatesteachersmanual

Visit https://shop.oliviabioni.com for podcast merch! 

Visit https://links.oliviabioni.com/affiliates to take advantage of some sweet savings!

Episode Music:

Workout Dance Day EDM by Diamond_Tunes, in compliance with Pixabay's Content License (https://pixabay.com/service/license-summary/)

Listen/download: https://pixabay.com/music/dance-workout-dance-day-edm-123377/

Support the show

This week's episode looks at the various ways we can offer corrections to our clients during group classes. We explore the importance of consent, the purpose of a hands on correction, and how you may be able to achieve the same outcome with a hands off correction. Tune in!

I want to hear from you! Share your thoughts and follow the podcast on Instagram and Facebook @pilatesteachersmanual. Full show notes, episode transcription, and chapter markers can be found on the podcast website here: http://bit.ly/pilatesteachersmanual. Be sure to subscribe to the podcast for updates, and rate and review wherever you listen!  Episodes now available on YouTube: *https://bit.ly/YouTubePTM*

Email [email protected] with your feedback.  

Show Notes:   

You can purchase the EPUB or PDF version of the book here and convert to a Kindle friendly file here: https://amazon.com/sendtokindle

Support the podcast:   

Get your copy of Pilates Teachers' Manual: The Book at https://book.oliviabioni.com/pilatesteachersmanual

Visit https://shop.oliviabioni.com for podcast merch! 

Visit https://links.oliviabioni.com/affiliates to take advantage of some sweet savings!

Episode Music:

Workout Dance Day EDM by Diamond_Tunes, in compliance with Pixabay's Content License (https://pixabay.com/service/license-summary/)

Listen/download: https://pixabay.com/music/dance-workout-dance-day-edm-123377/

Support the show

This week's episode examines what makes a Pilates class popular, from the environmental factors we can't control to the personal factors we can control. Beyond meeting the minimum expectations of being a capable and competent Pilates instructor, I explore the secret sauce making the best impression, motivating our clients, and building a community. Tune in! 

I want to hear from you! Share your thoughts and follow the podcast on Instagram and Facebook @pilatesteachersmanual. Full show notes, episode transcription, and chapter markers can be found on the podcast website here: http://bit.ly/pilatesteachersmanual. Be sure to subscribe to the podcast for updates, and rate and review wherever you listen!  Episodes now available on YouTube: *https://bit.ly/YouTubePTM*

Email [email protected] with your feedback.  

Show Notes:   

You can purchase the EPUB or PDF version of the book here and convert to a Kindle friendly file here: https://amazon.com/sendtokindle

Support the podcast:   

Get your copy of Pilates Teachers' Manual: The Book at https://book.oliviabioni.com/pilatesteachersmanual

Visit https://shop.oliviabioni.com for podcast merch! 

Visit https://links.oliviabioni.com/affiliates to take advantage of some sweet savings!

Episode Music:

Workout Dance Day EDM by Diamond_Tunes, in compliance with Pixabay's Content License (https://pixabay.com/service/license-summary/)

Listen/download: https://pixabay.com/music/dance-workout-dance-day-edm-123377/

Support the show