Today we’re joined by Jason Bowman, a San Francisco–based teacher and one of the leads behind the Castro Room. Bradshaw kicks things off with some banter about Jason’s Instagram and dating life before the conversation dives into practice itself: meditation, Vipassana, Buddhism, and the layers of distraction, avoidance, and discomfort that surface along the way. Jason shares a formative teaching moment that shaped his approach, sparking reflections on the line between treating people as clients versus students, and the balance of being “nice” versus “strict,” especially given the gendered double standards women teachers often face.

From there, they explore how teaching shifts with class size, the deep trust students offer when they “hand over the marionette strings” of their bodies, and the importance of community that comes from staying rooted in one place. The discussion broadens to the paradoxes of modern yoga: the irony of turning hobbies into identities, CorePower as a “gateway yoga drug,” and how marketing promises can cheapen a practice that speaks for itself. They trace the origins of Castro Rooms and the community it has built, while also touching on Jason’s personal life, writing, psychedelics, and the moments Bradshaw nudges him into sharing about his trauma.

Amidst the big themes, there are plenty of lighter stories about lavender towel drama, slammed doors, inappropriate DMs, and the unforgettable moment Jason spotted an old party friend walking into class.

Find Jason Bowman Online or IRL:

Web: https://www.jasonarthurbowman.com/

Ig: @_jasonbowm

Substack: https://jasonbowman.substack.com/

Studio: https://www.castroroom.com/

🌊 Upcoming Retreats

• Todos Santos, Mexico Retreat : December 4-8,2025 

• Nicaragua Yoga Teachers Retreat : February 2026

• Starved Rock Retreat : June 12-14, 2026

📚 Read the Podcast Blog:

The Funny Thing About Yoga on Substack

📲 Follow Us

Podcast: @thefunnythingaboutyoga

School: @cayayogaschool

Hosts: @gianagambino & @bradshawwish

🌐 More Links

gianayoga.com

bradshawwishyoga.com

cayayogaschool.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Giana and Bradshaw kick things off with playful banter and an unboxing where Bradshaw opens a box of goodies Giana influenced him to buy, as he is her reluctant but loyal “Dobby.” From there, the conversation flows into the theme of Growing Beyond People and Places. They explore the inner knowing that arises when it’s time to move on from relationships, friendships, jobs, or communities that no longer feel aligned, and the mix of grief, fear, and excitement that often comes with change.

They talk about friendships that shift over time, the balance between surface connections and deeper ones, and the importance of safety in creating true vulnerability and depth. Giana reflects on her relationship and the depth of connection that sometimes can challenge slipping into trauma dumping, while Bradshaw jokes about his tendency to dive deep without always reciprocating. Together they wrestle with the discomfort of small talk, the difference between time spent and true connection, and how to recognize when something has run its course.

The conversation also turns to work and purpose, from the sadness of outgrowing spaces to the professional necessity of letting go to make room for new opportunities. Bradshaw shares his experience of staying at the same gym for twelve years, tied to personal history but also limiting his growth, while Giana reflects on how that loyalty kept him from investing in himself through CAYA. In the end, they circle back to the truth that change requires introspection, boundaries, gratitude, and trust- an ongoing practice of letting go to create space for what’s next.

🌊 Upcoming Retreats

• Todos Santos, Mexico Retreat : December 4-8,2025 

• Nicaragua Yoga Teachers Retreat : February 2026

• Starved Rock Retreat : June 12-14, 2026

📚 Read the Podcast Blog:

The Funny Thing About Yoga on Substack

📲 Follow Us

Podcast: @thefunnythingaboutyoga

School: @cayayogaschool

Hosts: @gianagambino & @bradshawwish

🌐 More Links

gianayoga.com

bradshawwishyoga.com

cayayogaschool.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Giana and Bradshaw are thrilled to announce their brand-new Patreon channel- your backstage pass to classes, deeper dives into postural alignment, behind-the-scenes retreat content and podcast videos, and plenty of random personal tidbits.

They also share some exciting news: they’re officially creating for Yoga Journal! Their debut piece, “Frustrated by Warrior 1? These Are the Cues You Can—and Should—Ignore,” features a video breakdown by Bradshaw and a step-by-step companion article by Giana.

In this episode, they unpack everything about Warrior 1 - alignment of the feet, positioning of the tailbone and spine, what’s happening with the shoulders, where to gaze, and they offer both the traditional cues and modern alternatives for more comfort and ease. With a nuanced approach that honors different body types, they invite you to explore what truly works for you.

And of course, they wrap things up with a laugh: Bradshaw confesses he’s already forgotten a key part of his new job, and Giana recounts a very “Marin” experience at the hottest yoga studio in town, complete with a style wildly different from anything she’s ever seen before.

Thanks for listening, and don’t forget to leave a 5-star review.

Read our Article in Yoga Journal: https://www.yogajournal.com/practice/warrior-1-pose/

🌊 Upcoming Retreats

• Mexico Retreat – December 4-8,2025 

• Yoga Teachers Retreat – February & March 2026

• 2026 Starved Rock Retreat -- June 12-12, 2026

📚 Read the Podcast Blog:

The Funny Thing About Yoga on Substack

📲 Follow Us

Podcast: @thefunnythingaboutyoga

School: @cayayogaschool

Hosts: @gianagambino & @bradshawwish

🌐 More Links

gianayoga.com

bradshawwishyoga.com

cayayogaschool.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this lively, wide-ranging episode, we dive into life beyond the yoga mat. We kick things off with Giana’s stay at a monastery, Bradshaw’s dating escapades, and a collective longing for an assistant (or five). From there, the conversation spirals into our favorite guilty pleasures, from TV shows, hobbies, social lives, shopping habits, and pandemic-era FaceTime glam sessions (yes, makeup was involved).

We also get into the real stuff: creativity, the importance of rest, the healing path, being of service, and what we might be doing if we weren’t yoga teachers. There’s art, animals, some honest shart talk, and of course, Bradshaw’s latest “boy crazy” adventures- including his genius idea for a dating app that matches people by trauma.

This episode is fun, honest, nostalgic, and full of tangents in the best possible way.

🌊 Upcoming Retreats

• Mexico Retreat – December 4-8,2025 

• Yoga Teachers Retreat – February & March 2026

• 2026 Starved Rock Retreat -- June 12-12, 2026

📚 Read the Podcast Blog:

The Funny Thing About Yoga on Substack

📲 Follow Us

Podcast: @thefunnythingaboutyoga

School: @cayayogaschool

Hosts: @gianagambino & @bradshawwish

🌐 More Links

gianayoga.com

bradshawwishyoga.com

cayayogaschool.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this juicy bonus Q&A episode, we tackle two big topics: what to do when a student asks you out (yep, it happens) and how to approach sequencing for an entire month without losing your mind. Along the way, our banter takes a few detours, including what it’s like navigating an unequal partnership, the emotional weight of Bradshaw’s first retreat after his dad’s death, disassociating vs. Pratyahara, and other behind-the-scenes info. It’s raw, real, and a little ridiculous, just how we like it.

SEND YOUR QUESTIONS TO: [email protected]

🌊 Upcoming Retreats

• Mexico Retreat – December 4-8,2025 

• Yoga Teachers Retreat – February & March 2026

• 2026 Starved Rock Retreat -- June 12-12, 2026

📚 Read the Podcast Blog:

The Funny Thing About Yoga on Substack

📲 Follow Us

Podcast: @thefunnythingaboutyoga

School: @cayayogaschool

Hosts: @gianagambino & @bradshawwish

LINKS:

https://www.cayayogaschool.com/

https://www.gianayoga.com/

https://bradshawwishyoga.com/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you’ve ever unrolled a B Mat in class, or have been on the hunt for the grippiest yoga mat out there, this one’s for you.

Today we’re joined by Andrea McKay, founder and CEO of b, halfmoon, and the force behind one of the yoga world’s most beloved props: the B Mat. She shares how the brand was born, her business background and inspiration, and how a little bit of naivety and a lot of passion helped her get her start.

We talk about the evolution of the company, from logo changes to the acquisition of Halfmoon, and the deeper meaning behind the brand’s signature comma. Giana fan-girls over a hard-to-find mat (that Andrea jokingly promises her) and pitches a custom “G Mat,” because we all need one of those.

There’s plenty of laughter, a few trade secrets (yes, we talk stickiness), and real talk about returning to your roots and the power of simplicity. Andrea opens up about the company’s major production pause, the challenges that led to it, what it taught her, and how the support of the community brought them back stronger.

We also dive into uncertainty, resilience, throwing things into the fire, grounding practices, feeling like a hypocrite in this work, and the importance of staying connected to your purpose. And yes, we reference Bradshaw’s viral sticky mat reel that has the yoga world giggling, because everyone has an opinion.

Press play and join us for an episode full of heart, hustle, and sticky mats. Plus, use code FUNNYTHING20 for 20% off anything from B, Half Moon.

B, Halfmoon Website: www.bhalfmoon.com

IG handles: @bhalfmoon_official + @beingandreamckay

🌊 Upcoming Retreats

• Mexico Retreat – December 4-8,2025 

• Yoga Teachers Retreat – February & March 2026

• 2026 Starved Rock Retreat -- June 12-12, 2026

📚 Read the Podcast Blog:

The Funny Thing About Yoga on Substack

📲 Follow Us

Podcast: @thefunnythingaboutyoga

School: @cayayogaschool

Hosts: @gianagambino & @bradshawwish

🌐 More Links

gianayoga.com

bradshawwishyoga.com

cayayogaschool.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Buckle up for the longest pre-show catch-up ever as Giana and Bradshaw reunite on the mic with a summer’s worth of updates. First up: summer travels, the ins and outs of Bradshaw’s weekend workshop in Indiana, and the unexpected moment when Giana interrupts to reveal a secret text Bradshaw sent, because of course she needs to share the juicy gossip. That naturally opens the door to a brand-new update on Bradshaw’s love life, and he spares no details. Like, none.

Once they finally get around to yoga, they dive into a detailed conversation about gym yoga versus studio yoga, and the elitism that can quietly creep into the yoga world. They both reflect on how teaching in gyms shaped them as teachers, especially in the early days. Giana reminds us that Bradshaw’s gym job actually sparked their connection, and thus, the existence of this podcast—and Bradshaw shares how it forced him to dig deeper in his teaching. Giana opens up about teaching in corporate versus not-so-corporate gyms, and how those experiences sharpened her teaching and broadened her perspective. They both agree: there’s no need to place a hierarchy on where you teach.

They swap funny gym stories, sprinkle in some solid advice for new teachers, and reflect on the freedom, structure, and surprising growth that can come from teaching outside the traditional studio box. Whether you’re teaching in a boutique studio, a big-box gym, or out of your living room, this one might just shift the way you think about where yoga happens, and who it’s really for.

🌊 Upcoming Retreats

• Mexico Retreat – December 4–8, 2025

• Yoga Teachers Retreat, Nicaragua – February & March 2026

• Starved Rock Retreat – June 12–14, 2026

📚 Read the Podcast Blog

The Funny Thing About Yoga on Substack

📲 Follow Us

Podcast: @thefunnythingaboutyoga

School: @cayayogaschool

Hosts: @gianagambino & @bradshawwish

🌐 More Links

gianayoga.com

bradshawwishyoga.com

cayayogaschool.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode, we’re joined by Vytas, a seasoned yoga teacher with over 20 years of experience in Los Angeles and online.

Giana has taken his classes many times throughout her travels to LA and has always been curious about his journey, especially during the heyday of sweaty, packed vinyasa classes that defined a certain golden era of yoga in the city. Vytas shares a raw and powerful story that brought him to the mat, including his struggles with heroin addiction as a teen, time in prison, and the pivotal moment when friends pushed him toward yoga.

He found a mentor in Bryan Kest, whose approachable style resonated deeply, and eventually began teaching at Power Yoga in Santa Monica. Vytas walks us through his transition into teaching, staying rooted in one studio for two decades, and opens up about the Power Yoga studio split. Oh yes, we got some tea.

True to form, Vytas keeps it real. He’s blunt, direct, and totally unfiltered, which had us both jaw-dropped and cracking up. His intense teaching style even earned him the nickname “The Punisher.” But we also loved hearing how fatherhood, sobriety, and stepping into his 40s have softened him in surprising ways. Along the way, we dive into the culture of mirrors in yoga studios, the struggle with mouth breathing, the importance of diversifying your income as a teacher, and a few of the wildest stories we’ve ever heard- one involving pushing a student too far, and another that ended in a full-blown attack.

You don’t want to miss this one.

Find Vytas on the FitOn app or in person at Power Yoga East and Open.

Thanks for listening!

Find Vytas Online:

IG: @vytasyoga

WEB: vytasyoga.com

🌊 Upcoming Retreats in Nicaragua

• 2026 Starved Rock Retreat- June 12-14, 2026

• Yoga Teachers Retreat – February & March 2026

📚 Read the Podcast Blog:

The Funny Thing About Yoga on Substack

📲 Follow Us

Podcast: @thefunnythingaboutyoga

School: @cayayogaschool

Hosts: @gianagambino & @bradshawwish

🌐 More Links

gianayoga.com

bradshawwishyoga.com

cayayogaschool.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Giana and Bradshaw catch up during a late-night recording session as they batch episodes ahead of their summer travels. Bradshaw shares about his upcoming workshops and some pre-travel nerves, while Giana gears up for a return to Chicago, prompting Bradshaw to prep by cleaning his bathroom in her honor.

They share some exciting announcements, including the 2026 Starved Rock Retreat, the upcoming Yoga Teachers Retreat, and a little teaser about launching their Patreon.

Then they dive into the main topic: mentorship.

Bradshaw talks about his one-on-one mentorships and how many of his mentees come in with questions about sequencing, social media, and all kinds of random teaching challenges. Giana shares what she’s been up to with her group mentorship for yoga retreat leaders, guiding folks through the nitty-gritty of visualizing, planning, budgeting, and executing their retreat dreams.

They reflect on what they’ve learned from their own mentors- how to be inspired without becoming a carbon copy, and tell some great stories: losing money on a retreat, a funny lunch with Jason Crandell, and fond memories of their old teacher development program.

By the end, they’re both fired up to launch a group mentorship program together (stay tuned!), and they talk honestly about how mentoring others is one of the best ways to keep growing themselves, both personally and professionally.

They also get a little mushy about their own friendship, and how much support, mentorship, and growth they’ve found in each other over the years all before winding down with some hilarious stories. 

🌊 Upcoming Retreats in Nicaragua

• 2026 Starved Rock Retreat- June 12-14, 2026

• Yoga Teachers Retreat – February & March 2026

📚 Read the Podcast Blog:

The Funny Thing About Yoga on Substack

📲 Follow Us

Podcast: @thefunnythingaboutyoga

School: @cayayogaschool

Hosts: @gianagambino & @bradshawwish

🌐 More Links

gianayoga.com

bradshawwishyoga.com

cayayogaschool.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we have on Karrie Myers, aka SelfKarrie, a deeply intuitive and talented astrologer Giana happened to meet at a tea house in Marin.

We dive into a mind-bending conversation about the current cosmic climate, and Karrie breaks down the incoming 7-year Uranus in Gemini transit (starting July 7!)—what it means for how we learn, communicate, and move through the world.

She explains why this next chapter may feel more fluid than past transits—Uranus and Gemini are both air signs—but also why it’s about to radically disrupt how we speak, travel, and even think. From telepathy to AI to neurodivergence as expanded awareness, Karrie opens up a portal into what’s next.

We also touch on war in the Age of Aquarius: less about weapons, more about who controls the information. Cyber-activism, hacking, and the internet as our collective consciousness? Yep, we go there.

Plus, Karrie gives Giana and Bradshaw a joint business partner reading, and things get real. She shares why their playful, purpose-driven partnership is exactly what this moment calls for—and how staying childlike, creative, and bold with their voices is key to expansion. There’s talk of shadow work and podcasting as soul work.

Come for the astrology, stay for the insight into how current transits may be shaping our communication, creativity, and collective direction.

🔮 Where to Find Karrie Myers:

• Website: www.selfkarrie.com
• Instagram: @selfkarrie
• YouTube: SelfKarrie

✨ Bio:

Karrie Myers (aka SelfKarrie) is an Astrological Coach & Counselor. With a background in Astrology, Mindfulness, Buddhist Psychology, Life & Relationships Counseling and Business Coaching, Karrie provides custom, astrology-informed sessions, life strategies and wellness advice for individuals, couples and business owners.

Karrie has provided workplace astrological services to Pinterest and Roblox, and has taught astrology at Esalen Institute. She has been a featured astrologer for the NY Post, Well + Good, Bustle Magazine, San Francisco’s Gate Magazine, Redfin’s Real Estate blog, and a guest on multiple podcasts and platforms.

Karrie is host of the podcasts, "Waking Up to Your Worth", “You & Me in Orbit”, and one half of the popular astrology & tarot podcast, “The Melanated Mystics”.

🌊 CAYA Yoga School Retreats:

• Yoga Teachers Retreat – Nicaragua, February & March 2026: Retreat Info
• Starved Rock Retreat – June 2026: Retreat Info

🌐 More Links

• gianayoga.com
• bradshawwishyoga.com
• cayayogaschool.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.