This week, Liz and Tyler head straight into the sweaty “this-is-definitely-not-a-cult-except-maybe-it-definitely-is” world of Ashtanga yoga. 

Our guest, Magnolia Zuniga, was one of only 20 women in the world to become a Certified Ashtanga teacher. She spent 22 years inside the system — traveling to India, waking up before the crack of dawn, giving up apartments, and building her entire life around the practice and the man who created it. 

Then, on her very first day studying with master Pattabhi Jois — the “grandfather” of modern yoga — she witnessed something that shattered everything she thought she knew. 

What followed was years of confusion, devotion, cognitive dissonance, community pressure, and the slow unraveling of everything she believed Ashtanga Yoga to be.

FOLLOW US

For more culty content, nuanced conversations, and uncomfortable truths told with care — follow us on Instagram & TikTok →

@wasiinacult

FOLLOW MAGNOLIA

YouTube: @MagnoliaSezSo

Instagram: @magnoliasezso

Magnolia's Newsletter

SUPPORT THE SHOW

If you believe in what we’re doing — shining a light on manipulation, coercion, and the messy psychology behind it — please rate, review, and share the podcast.

Want to support our work even more so we can keep bringing you more cult-busting content?

Join our Patreon for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and our eternal gratitude.

HAVE A CULTY STORY TO SHARE?

We’d love to hear from you.

Email us → [email protected]

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.