The Funny Thing About Yoga

This episode kicks off with Bradshaw confessing to being hungover, as Giana pushes them to podcast through it and keeping things real. They reflect on returning from the Joshua Tree retreat, feeling a little burnt out, and how their behind-the-scenes experience contrasts with guests' perceptions. This leads to today’s main topic: lifting the veil on the yoga world.

Giana and Bradshaw dive into pivotal moments that have exposed some harsh realities beneath the surface, from serious scandals and unpaid work to being misled into expensive programs, dealing with inauthentic people, and navigating toxic studio culture. No topic is off-limits as they recount instances that made the purity of yoga feel compromised.

Their message isn’t that the world is inherently bad, but rather that it's crucial to know who you’re learning from and what you’re getting into. In their philosophy, it’s best to keep things real and remove illusions.

CHECK OUT OUR 200-Hour YTT: https://www.cayayogaschool.com/200

Free Monthly Yoga Fam Meetings: https://www.cayayogaschool.com/community

Retreat with Us!!

Nicaragua Yoga Retreat (MARCH): https://www.cayayogaschool.com/nicaragua

Starved Rock Yoga Retreat (JULY): https://www.cayayogaschool.com/starvedrock

ITALY Yoga Retreat (AUGUST): https://www.cayayogaschool.com/italy

FOLLOW US:

@thefunnythingaboutyoga @cayayogaschool @gianagambino @bradshawwish

BE PART OF OUR FUNNY FAM: https://thefunnythingaboutyoga.substack.com/

LINKS:

https://www.cayayogaschool.com/

https://www.gianayoga.com/

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

In this episode, Bradshaw and Giana dive into the journey of becoming an authentic yoga teacher and finding your own voice. We reflect on our experiences of trying to imitate our teachers early on, and how we eventually stepped into who we truly are. We also explore what it means to live authentically off the mat, discussing the process of self-discovery and the transformations that come along the way.

Bradshaw shares how he grew up with a strong sense of individuality, always standing out, while Giana talks about her struggle with perfectionism, people-pleasing, and learning to embrace her true self. It’s a conversation we believe everyone can relate to, whether you’re a yoga teacher, or student, or just navigating your own path toward authenticity.

Give it a listen, and if it resonates with you, leave us a five-star review! Who knows? We might read yours on the air. We love you!

CHECK OUT OUR 200-Hour YTT: https://www.cayayogaschool.com/200

Retreat with Us!!

Nicaragua Yoga Retreat (MARCH): https://www.cayayogaschool.com/nicaragua

Starved Rock Yoga Retreat (JULY): https://www.cayayogaschool.com/starvedrock

ITALY Yoga Retreat (AUGUST): https://www.cayayogaschool.com/italy

FOLLOW US:

@thefunnythingaboutyoga @cayayogaschool @gianagambino @bradshawwish

BE PART OF OUR FUNNY FAM: https://thefunnythingaboutyoga.substack.com/

LINKS:

https://www.cayayogaschool.com/

https://www.gianayoga.com/

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

Join us for our monthly bonus episode! We start by discussing The Secret Lives of the Mormon Wives before diving into two questions about yoga retreats. The first addresses the challenge of selling the last few spots on a retreat—something we’ve both experienced and are eager to share insights about. The second question explores how we got into hosting retreats and highlights important factors to consider before taking the leap. It’s a quick listen packed with valuable information. Enjoy!

SEND YOUR QUESTIONS TO: [email protected]

CHECK OUT OUR 200-Hour YTT: https://www.cayayogaschool.com/200

Retreat with Us!!

Nicaragua Yoga Retreat (MARCH): https://www.cayayogaschool.com/nicaragua

Starved Rock Yoga Retreat (JULY): https://www.cayayogaschool.com/starvedrock

ITALY Yoga Retreat (AUGUST): https://www.cayayogaschool.com/italy

FOLLOW US:

@thefunnythingaboutyoga @cayayogaschool @gianagambino @bradshawwish

BE PART OF OUR FUNNY FAM: https://thefunnythingaboutyoga.substack.com/

LINKS:

https://www.cayayogaschool.com/

https://www.gianayoga.com/

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

In this episode, Giana and Bradshaw dive into the heart of community—what it means to them and how they've cultivated it since starting C.A.Y.A. Yoga School. They share stories of different studio vibes, the power of shared interests, and how connection can offer support and growth, both personally and professionally. Fostering this sense of community is one of their favorite aspects of teaching yoga, from their retreats, where they show up for students and support their practice, to teacher trainings that have helped students connect with others and even land jobs. Tune in for all things community, plus hilarious tales of pronouns, French fries, and threatening texts for talking too much. Inspired by recent reflections, this episode introduces our new initiative—a monthly Zoom to connect with listeners and Instagram followers. Visit our website to register and join the Funny Fam—let's grow this thing together!

SIGN UP FOR OUR 200-HOUR TEACHER TRAINING THIS WINTER: 

https://www.cayayogaschool.com/200

UPCOMING RETREATS:

Nicaragua Yoga Retreat (MARCH): https://www.cayayogaschool.com/nicaragua

Starved Rock Yoga Retreat (JULY 2025): https://www.cayayogaschool.com/starvedrock

Italy Yoga Retreat (SEPTEMBER 2025): https://www.cayayogaschool.com/italy

FOLLOW US:

@thefunnythingaboutyoga @cayayogaschool @gianagambino @bradshawwish

BE PART OF OUR FUNNY FAM: https://thefunnythingaboutyoga.substack.com/

LINKS:

https://www.cayayogaschool.com/

https://www.gianayoga.com/

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

This episode is chaos, humor, and technical as they discuss alignment. Giana and Bradshaw recorded late at night and are *definitely* unhinged as they chat about everything from their pets to their hilarious bickering while Giana crashes at Bradshaw’s place. They dive into how they drive each other crazy, sprinkle in some serious updates on upcoming retreats, and share their excitement over being mentioned in *Yoga Journal*. Eventually, they get to the yoga stuff—specifically splits! Tune in for anatomy breakdowns, how they prep students for splits, and Giana’s *very* hazy retelling of the story of Hanuman. With plenty of laughs and funny teaching moments, this late-night episode is one you don’t want to miss!"

SIGN UP FOR OUR 200-HOUR TEACHER TRAINING THIS WINTER: 

https://www.cayayogaschool.com/200

UPCOMING RETREATS:

Nicaragua Yoga Retreat (MARCH): https://www.cayayogaschool.com/nicaragua

Italy Yoga Retreat (SEPTEMBER 2025): https://www.cayayogaschool.com/italy

FOLLOW US:

@thefunnythingaboutyoga @cayayogaschool @gianagambino @bradshawwish

BE PART OF OUR FUNNY FAM: https://thefunnythingaboutyoga.substack.com/

LINKS:

https://www.cayayogaschool.com/

https://www.gianayoga.com/

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

In this deeply personal episode, Bradshaw returns to the podcast after the tragic loss of his dad to suicide. Together, we navigate the complexities of teaching yoga through challenging times and explore the power of letting our students see us in our most human moments. We talk about the roller coaster of grief, the concept of chosen family, and ways to show support. Bradshaw shares the vulnerability of having lost both parents and being on the edge of profound change.

This is a heavy topic that we approach with some levity, often finding ourselves on side tangents about existentialism, the wisdom of the Upanishads, and the unique challenges of being public while experiencing deeply personal journeys. Join us for an honest conversation filled with grief, humor, and heart.

ONE SPOT LEFT FOR JOSHUA TREE: https://www.cayayogaschool.com/jt

CHECK OUT OUR 200-Hour YTT: https://www.cayayogaschool.com/200

UPCOMING RETREATS:

Nicaragua Yoga Retreat (MARCH): https://www.cayayogaschool.com/nicaragua

Italy Yoga Retreat (SEPTEMBER 2025): https://www.cayayogaschool.com/italy

FOLLOW US:

@thefunnythingaboutyoga @cayayogaschool @gianagambino @bradshawwish

BE PART OF OUR FUNNY FAM: https://thefunnythingaboutyoga.substack.com/

LINKS:

https://www.cayayogaschool.com/

https://www.gianayoga.com/

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

In this week's episode, Giana sits down with Samantha Marks Gitlin, a former colleague and friend, to catch up on life after leaving their previous workplace. They cover everything from how a corporate environment can stifle teachers' personalities to the differences between teaching at gyms versus studios, the importance of hands-on assists, and Sam's passion for supporting yoga teachers.

Sam also introduces her exciting new business venture, We The People—a unique space in downtown Chicago designed to empower yoga teachers and fitness professionals. They discuss how this innovative platform helps instructors grow their businesses, diversify their income, and thrive independently. At We The People, teachers have the freedom to set their own schedules, rates, and class formats, fostering both creativity and collaboration.

The episode wraps up with some funny stories about their favorite older students—one who’s always trying to be hip and another who’s unintentionally shared a little too much. We’re thrilled to catch up with Sam and share the launch of this incredible new space. Thanks for tuning in—don’t forget to share this episode with your friends!

Where to find Samantha Marks Gitlin and We the People:

Instagram: @smgyoga and @wethepeople_chi

Web: https://www.wtpfs.com/

CHECK OUT OUR 200-Hour YTT: https://www.cayayogaschool.com/200

Retreat with Us!!

Joshua Tree Yoga Retreat (SEPTEMBER): https://www.cayayogaschool.com/jt

Nicaragua Yoga Retreat (MARCH): https://www.cayayogaschool.com/nicaragua

Italy Yoga Retreat (SEPTEMBER 2025): https://www.cayayogaschool.com/italy

FOLLOW US:

@thefunnythingaboutyoga @cayayogaschool @gianagambino @bradshawwish

BE PART OF OUR FUNNY FAM: https://thefunnythingaboutyoga.substack.com/

LINKS:

https://www.cayayogaschool.com/

https://www.gianayoga.com/

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

Join us for our monthly bonus episode! Today, we’re casually chatting about the renovations to Bradshaw's kitchen and what’s been happening lately. Then, we dive right into your burning questions. We cover topics like: our favorite and least favorite assists, whether it’s frowned upon to have 300 hours of training and not teach, and the best way to lead into Savasana. This episode is both informative and funny, so don’t miss out!

Important Time Markers: 

05:00 - Q1: What are your favorite and least favorite assists to give and receive?

11:00 - Q2: Is It frowned upon to have a 300-Hour and not teach?

15:30 - Q3: What is the best way to lead into Savasana? 

SEND YOUR QUESTIONS TO: [email protected]

CHECK OUT OUR 200-Hour YTT: https://www.cayayogaschool.com/200

Retreat with Us!!

Joshua Tree Yoga Retreat (SEPTEMBER): https://www.cayayogaschool.com/jt

Nicaragua Yoga Retreat (MARACH): https://www.cayayogaschool.com/nicaragua

FOLLOW US:

@thefunnythingaboutyoga @cayayogaschool @gianagambino @bradshawwish

BE PART OF OUR FUNNY FAM: https://thefunnythingaboutyoga.substack.com/

LINKS:

https://www.cayayogaschool.com/

https://www.gianayoga.com/

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

In this episode, Giana reconnects with Emma, who’s back on the podcast after a year and a half to share her journey from leaving corporate studios to becoming her own boss. Emma dives into how she built a fully booked schedule filled with private lessons and exclusive group classes, offering insights on earning your worth, breaking free from rigid sequencing, and embracing diverse movement modalities. They also tackle deeper industry topics like whitewashing, the dynamics of private lessons, and living your passion.

The episode is packed with practical advice, from strategies for self-promotion—even when studios impose restrictions—to the importance of connection and community. They also discuss the benefits of hosting limited group series and share tips on what to say after classes to foster client relationships. And, of course, there’s some juicy tea, like getting fired by a golden doodle, a rogue audition, and a retreat incident where they had to ask someone to leave early. Don’t miss this candid and insightful conversation!

Check out Emma's first Funny Thing episode here:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-funny-thing-about-yoga/id1670777543?i=1000614858319

Where to find Emma Wilbourn:

Instagram: @EmmaWilbournYoga

Web: https://emmawilbournyoga.com/

CHECK OUT OUR 200-Hour YTT: https://www.cayayogaschool.com/200

Retreat with Us!!

Joshua Tree Yoga Retreat (SEPTEMBER): https://www.cayayogaschool.com/jt

Nicaragua Yoga Retreat (MARCH): https://www.cayayogaschool.com/nicaragua

Italy Yoga Retreat (SEPTEMBER 2025): https://www.cayayogaschool.com/italy

FOLLOW US:

@thefunnythingaboutyoga @cayayogaschool @gianagambino @bradshawwish

BE PART OF OUR FUNNY FAM: https://thefunnythingaboutyoga.substack.com/

LINKS:

https://www.cayayogaschool.com/

https://www.gianayoga.com/

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

In this episode, Bradshaw and Giana dive deep into the world of common yoga injuries—what causes them and how to avoid them. They share personal stories about their own yoga-related mishaps, providing insights into why these injuries occur and how to maintain a balanced, mindful practice to stay injury-free. With a special PSA for yoga teachers on understanding their scope of practice, they also offer practical tips to troubleshoot challenging postures.

But it wouldn’t be The Funny Thing About Yoga without a few detours! Expect tangents on dancing, gonorrhea, and a student’s numb toe, all wrapped up with their signature humor. Whether you’ve had a yoga injury or not, tune in for a blend of valuable advice and plenty of laughs. Don’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe—plus, share your own yoga injury stories with us and how you recovered!

CHECK OUT OUR 200-Hour YTT: https://www.cayayogaschool.com/200

Retreat with Us!!

Joshua Tree Yoga Retreat (SEPTEMBER): https://www.cayayogaschool.com/jt

Nicaragua Yoga Retreat (MARCH): https://www.cayayogaschool.com/nicaragua

Italy Yoga Retreat (SEPTEMBER 2025): https://www.cayayogaschool.com/italy

FOLLOW US:

@thefunnythingaboutyoga @cayayogaschool @gianagambino @bradshawwish

BE PART OF OUR FUNNY FAM: https://thefunnythingaboutyoga.substack.com/

LINKS:

https://www.cayayogaschool.com/

https://www.gianayoga.com/

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