Ep #144: From Yoga Mats to Dog Shelters: Finding Purpose and Joy with Phil Kowalik

Phil’s journey from corporate life in Canada to a fulfilling yoga teaching career in Bali is nothing short of inspiring. After getting stuck in Bali during COVID, Phil started a dog shelter and a kombucha business. A life-changing 200-hour yoga teacher training revealed the power of yoga and meditation to him. Despite initial struggles, Phil found joy and purpose in teaching yoga, transitioning from online work to full-time teaching in gyms, hotels, and studios like Le Tribu. Phil shares his evolution as a teacher, from being unsure about his skills to embracing his passion fully. He highlights the importance of saving money and having financial security when transitioning careers. He also discusses the challenges faced during teaching, such as dealing with varied class sizes and the importance of authenticity. Phil’s story emphasizes dedication, constant learning, and personal growth. His journey, including managing a dog shelter and rescuing animals, showcases his commitment to making a positive impact. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration and guidance on pursuing their passion against all odds. Episode Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction 01:37 - Teaching and Yoga Training in Bali 04:58 - The Journey to Meditation: From Pressure to Inner Peace 07:33 - From Crypto to Yoga Teacher: A Life-Changing Journey 11:01 - The Discovery of a Love for Teaching 12:32 - The Discovery of a Passion for Yoga and the Path to Becoming a Yoga Teacher 15:48 - Dedicated Teaching Journey and Ongoing Progress 18:25 - Teaching with Challenges: Moments of Learning and Egos in Teaching 22:47 - The Joy of Teaching Yoga and Large Classes 28:51 - Opening New Yoga Classes in Canggu 29:59 - Guide for Aspiring Yoga Teachers: Tips and Advice 34:13 - Yoga Teacher's Daily Practice Routine: Dedication and Hard Work 35:41 - The Importance of Full Commitment 37:31 - The Decision to Quit: A Personal Story 38:58 - An Inspiring Yoga Teacher Story Phil’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/philkowalik/ --- About Going Pro Yoga: At Going Pro Yoga, we help yoga teachers become even better by teaching them new skills and giving them the tools they need to make their yoga classes safe, fun, and special for everyone. **Right now you can try Going Pro Yoga FREE for 7-days and sample: All Tools Needed to Master Cueing, Sequencing, and Alignment Video Library of over 75 fully Sequenced Classes, Sequence Chunks, and Flows FIRST EVER Yoga Cueing System with Over 160 poses and Hundreds of Variations Wisdom Talks from over 20,000 Hours of Teaching Experience Anatomy and Injury Prevention as it relates to Yoga. To Learn More, Visit Going Pro Yoga, and⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Start your 7-Day Free Trial⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! For more information about in-person trainings in Bali,⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.elementsofpoweryoga.com/advancedtrainings⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠