A Curious Yogi with Bobbi Paidel

“The dance will bring you to the surrender. It might not always be surrendered, but with more acceptance and more surrender, definitely more peace.”

Such a joy to share this conversation with Dana Flynn, a teacher’s teacher with more than 3 decades of practice and just total delight. Dana generously shares her raw energy, her lived experience and journey of waking up. This conversation delves into her personal path from a spirited party girl to a dedicated yogi, touching on themes of surrender, the power of inner exploration, and how yoga is a living, breathing experi...

“Sadhana is my life, basically. Whether it's studying or not studying or meditating or not meditating, but the intent is to maintain a sense of that Highest Awareness at all times.”

Discover the profound journey and wisdom of friend and life-time meditator Ravi. Ravi is a 70 year old yogi who has dedicated 50 years to living and embodying the Highest Awareness under the guidance (and Grace) of his teacher, his guide, his ideal, his guru, Swami Shyam. 

In this episode, Ravi shares timeless insights on meditation, the nature of the Knower, and how s...

Season 5 of A Curious Yogi is here.

I’m so happy to begin this season with a solo episode exploring an essential teaching from my teacher, Swamiji, who encouraged everyone to learn and memorize these seven verses from the Bhagavad Gita (Chapter 2, verses 19–25). He described them as containing the essence of the entire scripture.

In this episode, I share some of Swamiji’s reflections and commentary, attempt to sing the Sanskrit verses myself (eek), and explore ways we can read, contemplate, and meditate on this timeless text as modern seekers.

Season 4 comes to a close with reflection on the biggest themes, teachings, and truths that wove through this season of a Curious Yogi Podcast.

This closing episode is not a “best of,” but a look back at some of the timeless wisdom shared by this season’s guests. Through conversations on sadhana, meditation, tradition, fear, service, openness, devotion, and the deeper heart of yoga, one thread keeps returning: yoga is a path of remembering.

Remembering what practice is for.

Remembering how to meet the mind.

Remembering how to stay present in the pa...

“Practicing yoga is not really something separate from me. It is happening all the time.”

In this episode of a Curious Yogi Podcast, yoga teacher Myra Khanna shares her journey from Kathak dancer and scuba diving instructor to dedicated yoga practitioner and teacher. Drawing from studies with Bharath Shetty, Vinay Kumar, Vijay Kumar, Deepika Mehta, Mark Robberds, Eddie Stern, and ongoing training with Yoga Education College, Myra reflects on her evolution from a physically driven Ashtanga practice to a more holistic exploration of pranayama, meditation, and nervous system regulation.

The conversation explores the commercialization of yoga...

"Women are not small men – we are cyclical beings."

In this episode, the delightful Sheila Arnell shares her journey through yoga, emphasizing the importance of understanding women's health and the menstrual cycle in practice. She discusses her transition from a physically focused practice to a more spiritual and holistic approach, highlighting the significance of listening to the body and respecting its natural rhythms. Sheila also addresses the challenges women face in yoga, the need for inclusivity, and the importance of creating a supportive community.

Epic highlights!:

➖Injuries and Their Impact on Practice

➖U...

"Yoga is the drill, life is the game, chill is the skill."

What happens when we stop trying to fit our bodies into "perfect" geometric boxes and start listening to the miracle of our own physiology? A total joy to be joined by Eoin Finn to discuss his revolutionary approach to movement, blending soulful science with Harvard-level anatomy, a lifetime of study and practice, and a deep reverence for nature and heart-centred philosophy.

In this episode, we explore:

➖ How letting go of the ego’s desire for "endpoints" leads us to a state of e...

"The truth is such an attractive pursuit."

In this episode, I share an illuminating conversation with Jyoti, a devoted meditator who has spent decades exploring the depths of her sadhana. Our dialogue begins with Jyoti reflecting on her journey to India, where she found both her spiritual home and a deeper understanding of herself.

She shares how her former life as a professional dancer—filled with intensity and chaos—ultimately led her toward yoga and meditation, and to the ashram where she met her teacher, Swami Shyam. From there, the conversation unfolds into a rich expl...

"Yoga is about spirit."

In this episode, I sit down with a true "teacher’s teacher," Nicki Doane. Based in Maui at her Maya Yoga Studio, Nicki has been immersed in the sacred teachings of Yog since 1989. Having studied under legends like Sri K. Pattabhi Jois and B.K.S. Iyengar, she brings a rare depth of wisdom mixed with a lightheartedness that makes the profound feel accessible.

We dive into her journey from the Grateful Dead scene to the feet of the masters in India, the birth of her unique approach (Maya Yoga), and wh...

"The ultimate research laboratory is this mind, body, brain, heart."

A privilege to introduce Philippe Goldin, PhD – Professor at UC Davis, mindfulness researcher, and a true bridge between science and spirituality.

Join us for a delightful and mind-stretching conversation. Philippe’s path spans New York City, a deep study of Tibetan Buddhism across India, Nepal, and Tibet, and groundbreaking research in psychology and neuroscience. Today, we explore consciousness, meditation, ethics, intentionality, and how science and spirituality can inform and enhance each other.

Philippe also shares his insights on interpersonal neurobiology, empathy, awakening, and how...

"It's never too late to make changes and reconnect with nature."

In today's delightful conversation, I speak with a dear friend and colleague, Anette Christensen, a certified Ayurvedic health counsellor, therapist, and founder of Ayurvedic Center Malmö.

We delve into the ancient practice of Ayurveda, exploring its principles, applications in modern life, and the importance of daily routines for maintaining balance. Anette highlights the significance of understanding one's dosha and the practical steps individuals can take to integrate Ayurvedic practices into their daily lives for improved well-being.

Ayurveda and Yoga are sister philosophies a...

“Stay open with the wish to reach your highest potential.”

A delight to share this week's conversation with Aviva Robibo or Abhaya, as I know her, to discuss the Guru in the yogi or sadhak's journey of learning and unfolding one's true self.

Abhaya is a PhD scholar-practitioner who has devoted her life and work to the research and study of the Guru traditions of India and the sadhana and meditation that go along with it. We discuss her new book of the same name, we meditate, we sing, and it really feels like I’m brin...

"The goal is to advance to consciousness."

In this episode, I chat with Alexandra McRobert - yoga teacher, writer, podcast host, and lifelong student of spiritual wisdom. She created Sober Yoga Girl as a sanctuary for seekers on the path of healing - those navigating recovery from addiction, trauma, and mental health challenges, or just the overwhelm of being human in this modern world.

And she’s also a fellow Canadian (living abroad like me!). Alex shares her personal journey from Canada to teaching yoga abroad, her struggles with alcohol, and how sobriety transformed her li...

“So when you experience that peace, it's because it's your nature. Your real nature is peaceful. It is blissful. It is contented.”

Wow, this is an incredible episode from early in September, recorded for the Good Company livestream series with my brilliant friend Katharine from Unchanging Being. She is a longtime meditator and a deeply wise teacher. We talked about the Gita, the Gunas, retraining the mind, meditation, and satsang (and more). This is a conversation that bridges ancient wisdom with modern life. A classic, inspiring and educational talk that everyone will take something from, especially if you...

"Question everything."

Today, I welcome Anjali Rao, a yoga teacher and author, to discuss her journey into yoga, the cultural and historical contexts of yoga, and the themes of gender and caste within the practice. We delve into the representation of women and gender-expansive folks in yoga history, the impact of caste on yoga practices, and the importance of diverse perspectives in understanding yoga's role in modern society. Anjali emphasizes the need for curiosity, critical thinking, and the ability to hold paradoxes in our understanding of yoga and its teachings.

Key moments from our talk; <...

"It's so scary to be nobody."

In this episode, I’m talking with Yarmila Alfonzetti, one of Australia’s leading arts professionals, a mother, a wife, a friend, and, in the truest sense of the word, a curious yogi.

Yarmila joins me with so much joy and openness to share her journey as a yogi. Together, we dive into themes of identity, ego, and what makes yoga retreats so special. She speaks about the gift of silence in practice, the experience of bliss, and how personal growth brings its own responsibilities.

Along the way...

“The greatest value of this kind of talk is that you have the right to choose that kind of company and be uplifted.”

In today's episode of Good Company on a Curious Yogi, Hirdaya and I explore the significance of good company in spiritual growth, emphasizing the importance of Shravan (hearing), Manan (reflection), and Nidhidhyasan (application) in deepening one's practice. We discuss the challenges of modern life, the power of pause, and the necessity of authentic conversations for inner transformation.

The dialogue highlights the need to choose uplifting thoughts and ultimately, Hirdaya reminds us of our...

"When you experience trauma, your spectrum of grief grows…on the other side of the spectrum, it has as much joy as you are able to experience as well."

In this powerful episode, I chat with Rodrigo Souza of Allihopa Yoga - from his living room in Malmö, Sweden. Rodrigo is the coolest yogi I’ve ever met, and more importantly, he lives yoga in every sense of the word.

We delve into the profound impact of yoga on trauma recovery and spinal cord injury (SCI) rehabilitation through his journey, illustrating how adaptive yoga can trans...

"Start with ‘I am free’. Then you can still work on yourself as you need to."

Today, I’m happy to be sharing this delightful conversation with one of my favourite people, my dear friend Zach, a lifelong practitioner of sadhana who grew up in the Indian Himalayas at a meditation institute, in the company of an enlightened Guru.

I waited a while to finally get Zach onto the show, as he is a true yogi, but one who spends his time privately. In this episode, we explore the profound journey of self-discovery and sadhana with i...

Embracing the Paradox.

Hi Curious Yogis,

I’m here with my friend Vijay and fellow meditator, and I’m so excited to share the first rendition of a new podcast format I'm calling Good Company. It’s a part of The Curious Yogi Podcast, created to offer something a little different: spontaneous, live-streamed satsang that invites you, the community of listeners and Patreon members, into deeper connection and active participation.

In this inaugural conversation, recorded live in Copenhagen, we dive straight into the heart of what it means to walk the spiritual path while...

"A Sankhya Yogi loses ego every day. A Scholar gains ego every day.”

In this episode, I chat with Ram Jain — a fifth-generation yogi and founder of Arhanta Yoga, with ashrams in both India and the Netherlands. Ram’s journey began at a Vedic school at age 8, and his life has since been dedicated to teaching yoga as a path to self-realization and empowerment.

We talk about his evolution from aspiring dancer to spiritual teacher, how yoga is perceived differently across cultures, and the deeper meaning behind practices like Sankhya and Gyan Yoga. Ram has a beau...

“Consciousness is love, it is who I truly am.”

Today I chat with celebrated yoga teacher and author Reema Datta who is on a mission to change that with her recent book The Yogi’s Way: Transform Your Mind, Health, and Reality, which offers a twelve-week self-guided course that empowers readers to break free from the destructive tendencies of their minds and experience lasting peace.

Reema shares insights from her own sadhana and of course, her book, exploring the profound influence of family on her spiritual journey, the importance of inner peace, and the foundations of yog...

"The only important thing is peace, and peace is your true nature.”

In this enlightening episode, I’m talking to a friend and master yogini, Deep Priya, who has been teaching Patanjali Yog Sutras since 1986. Deep Priya shares her profound journey through yoga, dance, and meditation, exploring the interconnectedness of these practices.

The conversation delves into the essence of the witness self, the nature of the mind, and the path to liberation through meditation and self-awareness.

Deep Priya explores and emphasizes the importance of being present in the moment, understanding the nature of thou...

“Be curious about the right stuff. Who are you really? Ask yourself, what’s the truth that never changes its truthfulness?”

Today I’m joined by a real modern-day yogi and meditator live from the Himalayas. Mr. Richard Taylor became Dikpal when he met Swami Shyam in 1973. He’s been meditating ever since, and in this delightful and illuminating conversation, Dikpal shares his wisdom from living and studying with a Self-realized teacher for 50 years and coming to understand the purpose of this human life.

We touch on a lot here, but here are just a few...

Curious Yogis! Wow!

Such a treat to compile these key moments and threads of knowledge that have been woven throughout the past season of a Curious Yogi Podcast.

Today I give my thoughts on everything picked up in the past season and share my reflections on the endlessly inspiring topics to support our continual unfoldment in sadhana.

Enjoy special moments of wisdom shared by Daniel Simpson, Stewart Gilchrist, Sheena Sood, Acharya Shunya, Magnust Fridh, Prasad Rangnekar, Mayank, Lars Ims and Shaarda.

Let me know what your thoughts have been for season 3! <...

“Be patient with your spiritual journey. I believe that when you stop looking at spirituality as one more project to fuel one’s ego it finds its own pace. Natural, effortless growth happens.”

Another great, illuminating conversation with the ever generous, one and only Prasad Rangnekar. You may know him from his popular Instagram account with his 30 years of teaching and mentoring wisdom under his belt that he delivers in digestible, relatable nuggets.

Today my intention was to “get deep” with Prasad and we definitely hit that for all you spiritually curious seekers out there. We discuss...

“Sadhana is to realize the embodied being and know the difference. This human incarnation is something we have, it’s not what we are. Avidya is mistaking what we have for what we are.”

Lars Ims is a meditator and author who has spent his life immersed in sadhana under the guidance of his Guru, Swami Shyam.

He is also a friend, so he is the perfect yogi to discuss the real meaning of Sadhana. It’s such a great joy to share in the Satsang space, where he delivers the true meaning of sadhana, the impo...

"Yoga is pointing towards the possibility of an impersonal approach to everything that is experienced."

Hey yoga nerds! This one is for you.

Daniel Simpson makes timeless insights accessible and relevant. He’s the author of The Truth of Yoga, an engaging overview of history and philosophy. He also hosts the Ancient Futures podcast. His latest course is a year-long immersion, The Path of Knowledge – you can find out more and join here.

In today’s engaging, informative and light-hearted conversation, Daniel offers up so much inspiration from ancient yogic knowledge to applied modern...

"Your practice is meant to remind you that you’re free."

Today I’m graced with the presence of the one and only master Padma Yogi. Padma is a certified advanced meditation teacher from the International Meditation Institute in India and one of Canada’s most respected teachers.

In today’s satsang conversation, Padma brings the ancient knowledge of yoga to life with eloquence and clarity, answering my questions with knowledge and presence.

Padma makes the teachings accessible so all the curious yogi’s listening can begin to inquire and unfold the knowledge and medita...

“Freedom is a state of needlessness and acceptance.”

Today I share in a heartfelt discussion on the oneness that sadhana unfolds and the unending polarities of life, beginning with celebration and despair.

My dear friend Truus Breukers (Tripti) is a registered nurse, holds a master's in child psychology, and is a children’s book author living between Northern India and the Netherlands in a “dynamic exchange”. She is a creator, a hiker, a wife, a friend, a generously giving spirit and she is a sadhak.

In our satsang, we discuss experience on “two tracks”, how...

“Not California oneness. Real oneness is where everything is inclusive.”

Swami Svatmananda is a rare scholar who has delighted audiences worldwide with his lectures on various Vedic knowledge. His rare combination of innate skills, broad life experience and dedicated scriptural study translates into a uniquely comprehensive approach to teaching and applying ancient wisdom in modern times. Swami Svatmananda’s teaching style makes the elusive ancient wisdom accessible to all who earnestly seek it.

In our talk together we discuss studying the Vedas practically, how essential is the teacher, having time for contemplation, ending suffering and so muc...

“Buddhists always consider new people as friends. Not the other way around, we should see each other as friends. It makes the world a better place.”

In this episode, I’m talking to Magnus Fridh, a teacher of yoga, mindfulness, and meditation. Magnus is also one of the founders of The Mindfulness App. His latest book, “The Art of Stillness in a Noisy World” (Hardie Grant), is about how to find tranquillity and peace in everyday life.

Magnus started meditating in his teens and immersed himself in the subject through Tibetan Buddhism and university studies in Indolog...

In this short episode, I share my personal story of how Himachal Pradesh, India shifted my belief and mindset to one that is rooted in freedom, service and sadhana.

And I let you in on why I decided to do something as crazy as hosting a retreat there and of course, invite you to join me for an incredible journey in this lesser-explored area of Northern India in March 2025. Come explore the magic!

✨ Visit www.bobbipaidel.com/himalayan-retreat to download the info guide.

✨ Hit me up at yoga@bobbipaidel.com if you're curious and...

“What are the ethical implications of yoga being used by these racially oppressive, colonial forces and being used to help people who are agents of that oppression feel better and decompress and destress?”

I am honoured to introduce you to this week's guest, Sheena Sood, PhD, an Assistant Professor of Sociology, activist, yoga practitioner, and healing justice visionary. Sheena is on the editorial board of Race & Yoga Journal; is a co-founder of Yogis for Palestine - and the founder of Yoga Warrior Tales. Her research is focused on what she calls Omwashing; the weaponization of yoga by far...

“The communion of spiritual life and worldly life. Only if you understand your spiritual life, can actually live your worldly life quite beautifully.”

A special guest and inspiration today is the one and only Arohini Narain, Chief HR and Strategy officer from Lucknow, India. But more than a successful businesswoman, Ruhi is a satsangee first and foremost.

In this episode Arohini shares the wisdom of her spiritual master who has guided her through her successes and challenges in life. She speaks with clarity and conviction in the teachings and shares the resting places shes’ cultivated within...

“We have both always been searching for something that gave us purpose and meaning, to fill that whole and guidelines to live after.”

Raw. Real. Totally Joyful.

Richard Grønlie and Line Sortehaug made a huge impression when I met them earlier this year. They are a Norwegian married couple with three kids, they are yoga teachers, and they are addicts.

Their story is one of transformation and redemption. They share their views on life, yoga, recovery and how to handle the ups and downs that will inevitably come our way. Richard and Line...

“Being truly conscious requires stepping back from compulsions and attachments - a change in the operating system. And sometimes we need a helping hand for that. We can’t do it alone, nor should we have to.”

For me, the healing, the coming home, starts with shame. And is currently seeped in gratitude.

In this solo episode, I share my personal story woven together with words from wise teachers and thinkers. Borrowed from the sages, saints and sponsors who have inspired my own inquiry into addiction, mental health and healing, I share my take aways from 6...

“Take that 7 minutes (meditation) a day. And nurture it like a little seedling and watch how it grows into the beautiful plant of oneness and watch how it oozes out into your life.”

This week's guest is Mayank in New Zealand, he is first and foremost a yogi and meditator. He teaches Somatics, Restorative Movement & QiGong at the Wisdom of Meditation Centre in Te Horo, New Zealand.

Mayank and I discuss his story of growing up in a religious home and talk about the expanded meaning of the “G” word (GOD!). Mayank graciously shares his lifetime...

“Decolonizing yoga is admirable but I think it is just better to learn yoga.”

I’d like to introduce you to Dr. Shyam Ranganathan a field-changing researcher, scholar, author, and teacher of philosophy, and an expert in the neglected traditions of Indian moral philosophy, which covers practical questions of how to live, what to aim for, and what we should value—including Yoga.

Find Dr. Shyam Ranganthan 100 Hour Level 1 Yoga Philosophy Training and other courses at: yogaphilosophy.com/level-1-and-2-certification

Find his most recent book Yoga - Anticolonial Philosophy HERE

I’m look...

“The real beauty of yoga is about letting go, being flexible and seeing that there is infinite potential in every moment.”

Today I’m joined by R. Alexander Medin, a certified Ashtanga Teacher and all around amazing human with an incredible capacity for giving and sharing yoga with generosity, joy and clarity.

Alexander shares his story and perspective with immense insight from transitioning from professional boxer to breakdancer to ballet dancer to being certified by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois - an honor achieved by only 33 individuals.

Alexander and I discuss his work with addict...