Stillpoints: A Podcast with Scott Johnson

• #49: Memories of Sharath - Episode 4

  Episode 4: The Final Collective Memories - Stories from Sharath's Friends & Students In this fourth episode of Memories of Sharath, it will be the last time we bring collective voices in one place. Over the four collective episodes , the memories shared have revealed not only the depth of Sharath's connection to people, but also how the practice of Ashtanga Yoga shapes all of us us in deeply personal ways. How it binds us together through a shared thread - connection. The stories in this episode share a mix of humour, honesty, tenderness, and devotion. There are moments of being seen, challenged, and cared for. Together, these stories paint a picture of a man who could carry the weight of a lineage while still making space for laughter, mischief, and joy. Each story offers a glimpse into the profound simplicity of how he taught: by showing up fully, again and again. In this episode, you’ll hear from: Peg Mulqueen, who remembers Sharath’s quiet support through grief, offering steadiness and laughter when it was needed most. Tom Norrington-Davis, who recalls the playful teasing and sharp precision that left you feeling both challenged and seen. John Bultman offers a portrait of quiet sacrifice, deep listening, and patient guidance. Rocket Kaleshu reflects on the joy and simplicity with which Sharath passed on the practice. John Tattva shares the warmth of speaking with him in Kannada, the magic of the old shala, and life-changing connections. David Robson & Jelena Vesic speak to the evolution of their relationship with him, from fierce discipline to unexpected softness. David Swenson takes us back to the boy Sharath once was, someone who was full of light, laughter, and mischief. Subscribe, Listen, and Remember Sharath Jois’s legacy is woven through these voices — in the stillness, in the laughter, and in the ways we continue to return to our practice. As we remember him, we stay connected to what matters most: love, presence, and the quiet strength of community. The Sunday Inspiration Email  Receive a gentle email every Sunday to inspire your day. Since 2017 Scott Johnson has shared the 'Stillpoint Sunday Inspiration Email' every week. He shares simple yoga philosophy, music he's listening to, short films he's watched, People of Yoga film & photography portraits and his poetry. If this is something you'd like to receive you can sign up here...

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• #048: Memories of Sharath - Episode 3

  Episode 3: A Life Remembered, A Practice Continued -  Stories from Sharath’s Friends & Students In this third episode of Memories of Sharath, we continue to explore the life and legacy of Sharath Jois through the voices of those who knew him well. This episode features deeply personal reflections from long-time students, close friends, and those whose lives were shaped by his steady presence and quiet encouragement. These stories reveal Sharath’s capacity to meet each person with care - to see them, guide them, and trust them. Through humour, devotion, honesty, and sometimes heartbreak, we hear how his teachings lived far beyond the mat. In this episode, you’ll hear from: Karen Cairns – A long-time student whose two-decade journey with Sharath was marked by quiet love, resilience, and grace. Taylor Hunt – On how Sharath’s trust helped him build a yoga-based recovery program that now transforms lives. Joseph Armstrong & Edgar Navarro – Sharing funny and intimate memories from hosting Sharath in Miami, including filming his final Mysore class. Priya Jhawar – Offering a tender, familial view of Sharath through stories of food, mischief, and deep love. Dominic Corigliano – Bridging past and present through memories of Sharath’s early years and his growth into leadership. Matt Corigliano – Reflecting on being seen and shaped by Sharath from childhood into adulthood. Alexander Medin – A powerful and honest reflection on a friendship marked by both rupture and enduring gratitude. Subscribe, Listen, and Remember Sharath Jois’s legacy is woven through these voices — in the stillness, in the laughter, and in the ways we continue to return to our practice. As we remember him, we stay connected to what matters most: love, presence, and the quiet strength of community. The Sunday Inspiration Email  Receive a gentle email every Sunday to inspire your day. Since 2017 Scott Johnson has shared the 'Stillpoint Sunday Inspiration Email' every week. He shares simple yoga philosophy, music he's listening to, short films he's watched, People of Yoga film & photography portraits and his poetry. If this is something you'd like to receive you can sign up here...

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• #047: Memories of Sharath - Episode 2

  Episode 2: A Deeper Look into Sharath's Impact – Voices from His Close Students and Family In this second episode of Memories of Sharath, we continue our journey through the life and legacy of Sharath Jois, one of the most influential figures in the Ashtanga Yoga tradition. This episode features heartfelt stories from Sharath’s family, close students and long-time friends who reflect on his life, teachings, and the profound impact he had on everyone who crossed his path. Through these intimate conversations, we explore Sharath’s enduring legacy - his kindness, humor, dedication, and the deep connections he built with his students and the global yoga community. These voices share not only memories of Sharath’s guidance as a teacher but also a glimpse into the essence of who he was as a person. In this episode, you’ll hear from: Sharmila Mahesh – Sharath’s sister, sharing intimate memories of their early life together and his start in yoga. Eddie Stern – On growing up together as students in Mysore, Sharath’s role in shaping Ashtanga Yoga and his lasting influence on the global community. Boonchu Tanti – Offering light-hearted stories of Sharath’s playful side and love for technology. Anne Finstad – Talking about Sharath’s spiritual depth and how he embodied kindness, simplicity, and deep humanity. Megan Riley – Sharing how Sharath’s humor and support helped empower her practice and personal growth. Deepika Mehta – Reflecting on Sharath’s dual nature as both a strict teacher and a playful, light-hearted person outside the Shala. Mark Robberds – Discussing how Sharath’s guidance shaped his life, especially during transformative moments. Wade Oakley – Speaking about Sharath’s emphasis on family life and the balance between practice and everyday life. Harmony Slater – Reflecting on Sharath’s leadership and love, offering a heartfelt view of his influence on her own journey. Subscribe, Listen, and Remember Sharath Jois left a legacy that continues to guide us all. In this series, we share the voices of those who experienced his presence firsthand—offering a deep, human connection to his teachings and his spirit. As we remember Sharath’s influence, we hold onto what binds us together as a community—our shared love for the practice, for each other, and for the path he helped to light. The Sunday Inspiration Email  Receive a gentle email every Sunday to inspire your day. Since 2017 Scott Johnson has share the Sunday Inspiration Email every week. He shares simple yoga philosophy ideas, music he's listening to, short films he's watched and his photography and poetry.  If this is something you'd like to receive you can sign up here...

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• #046 Memories of Sharath - Episode 1

  Memories of Sharath Jois (episode 1) | Stillpoints Podcast Join Scott Johnson on a journey through the life and legacy of Sharath Jois, one of the most influential figures in the Ashtanga Yoga community. In this special series of the Stillpoints Podcast, Scott brings together the voices of those who knew Sharath personally—his family, long-time students, and close friends—to share stories, memories, and reflections on his extraordinary life and teachings. From his early years in Mysore to his global impact as a yoga teacher and paramguru, Sharath’s influence transcended the practice of Ashtanga Yoga. His humility, dedication, and deep connection to the lineage of his grandfather, Pattabhi Jois, left an indelible mark on yoga practitioners worldwide. In Memories of Sharath Jois, you’ll hear firsthand accounts from those who were closest to him, offering a rich, multi-dimensional perspective on the man who shaped the Ashtanga tradition as we know it today. In this first episode you'll hear the voices of: Joanne and Mark Darby Having learned directly from both Sharath and his grandfather, Pattabhi Jois, Joanne and Mark have been part of the Ashtanga community for decades. Their long-standing relationship with Sharath gives them a unique insight into his evolution as a teacher and the deep connections he fostered within the community. Angela Jamison Angela has been a dedicated student of Sharath for many years. Her memories are rooted in his teachings and their connection that spans decades of learning, evolving, and personal growth in the Ashtanga system. Petri Räisänen One of the leading Ashtanga teachers in the West, Petri studied with Sharath for many years. His reflections on Sharath’s teachings and the role Sharath played in bridging the gap between Eastern and Western Ashtanga communities provide a deep and thoughtful perspective on his impact. Hamish Hendry Hamish has known Sharath since the mid-1990s and brings a wealth of experience from that time. His memories reflect the warmth and wisdom Sharath shared with his students and the unique relationship they built over decades of practice. Greg Nardi A long-time student of Sharath and a close friend, Greg’s memories span years of growth and transition in the Ashtanga community. His reflections shed light on how Sharath impacted his teaching and practice. Kino MacGregor & Tim Feldman Kino and Tim, two of the most well-known Ashtanga teachers globally, reflect on the direct influence Sharath had on their practice and teaching. Their stories offer a glimpse into how Sharath’s presence shaped their understanding of yoga as a path of life and transformation. Sushmita A devoted student of Sharath, Sushmita shares her experiences of his guidance, humility, and his unique ability to connect deeply with his students. Her memories highlight how Sharath touched lives far beyond the yoga mat. Olivier David Olivier speaks to Sharath’s role in shaping his own journey with yoga. His reflections focus on how Sharath’s teachings resonated with him personally and how they shaped his understanding of Ashtanga Yoga. Shelley Washington Shelley shares her intimate experiences of working with Sharath and how his influence guided her through personal growth and development as a yoga teacher. Her reflections offer a personal glimpse into Sharath’s deep understanding of both practice and life. David Kessel David had the profound experience of being with Sharath at the time of his passing. His reflections are full of respect and gratitude for the teachings Sharath left behind. Whether you’re an Ashtanga practitioner, a yoga teacher, or someone who simply appreciates the impact of great spiritual teachers, this series invites you to reflect on Sharath’s teachings, his legacy, and how his influence continues to ripple through the global yoga community. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to sign up for Scott’s Sunday Inspiration Email. Each week, you'll receive fresh insights, stories, and creative content that explore the intersection of yoga, life, and personal growth. Don’t miss out - join the community today!

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• #045: Mark Williams on How We Created Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy

  In this wide ranging conversation Scott Johnson talks to Dr Mark Williams, professor of Clinical Psychology at the University of Oxford and director of the Oxford Mindfulness Centre, about mindfulness meditation and its ability to treat and prevent depression. Mark was raised in a devout Christian household, and at a young age believed his calling was with the ministry. His path changed while studying clinical psychology at university, where he was drawn to the field of treating adult mental health. _____ We’d like to invite you to join our growing monthly Stillpoint Online Yoga community. For just £20 per month you can support the podcast and every Monday evening join The Still Space, our live stream yoga philosophy, mindfulness, pranayama and discussion sessions hosted by Scott Johnson. You can also gain access to our growing Stillpoint Online library of helpful yoga and mindfulness content. _____ Mark Williams - How We Created Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy In this conversation, Mark explains how cognitive therapy and mindfulness can be used to reduce the risk of relapse in people who have experienced depression. Mindfulness, unlike antidepressants and cognitive therapy, is uniquely effective as a preventative measure against poor mental health. By engaging in mindfulness even when we are not depressed, we can lower the risk of it affecting us in the first place. Among many rich and inspiring stories Mark shares how he developed MBCT after working with Jon Kabat Zinn, the founder of modern day mindfulness practices. Mark shares: How he developed MBCT with his colleagues and working directly with Jon Kabat Zinn How he experienced the transformational power of mindfulness meditation only after having abandoned it. How mindfulness and his Christian faith work in tandem, with surprising similarities between Buddhist awareness meditation and the Gospel of St John. How, within the Christian contemplative tradition, God can be understood as the ‘loving heart’ at the centre of the universe. How effective the combination of cognitive therapy and mindfulness is at reducing the risk of relapse. The limitations and contraindications of mindfulness. How liberation is to be found in the present moment, and that each moment is a possible moment of freedom. _____ About Mark Williams Mark Williams is Emeritus Professor of Clinical Psychology at the University of Oxford, having held posts at the Medical Research Council’s Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit at Cambridge and the University of Wales, Bangor. He co-developed Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy and founded the University of Oxford’s Mindfulness Centre that works to prevent depression and enhance human potential through the therapeutic use of mindfulness across the lifespan. His books include The Mindful Way through Depression: Freeing Yourself from Chronic Unhappiness (with John Teasdale, Zindel Segal and Jon Kabat-Zinn) and Mindfulness: A Practical Guide to Finding Peace in a Frantic World (with Danny Penman). His most recent work focuses on how to sustain and deepen mindfulness through a programme that explores feeling tone (vedanā) 'frame by frame', as explained in Deeper Mindfulness (2023). You can find more about Mark here: Oxford Mindfulness Foundation Wikipedia Books "This conversation with Dr Mark Williams gives a beautiful insight into one of the foremost leaders in the field of mindfulness over the past 40 years. Mark shares not only his involvement in the growth of mindfulness based interventions but also about his own journey with mindfulness. It is one of my favourite conversations yet...." Scott Johnson - September 2023 _____ If you enjoyed this podcast then you might also enjoy Scott’s conversations with Pamela Weiss, Peter Levitt and Martin Aylward.  

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