Category: famous quotes

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Caregivers, Gettysburg Address & Gym Etiquette on Tola Talks – Ep #207

In this episode of Tola Talks, I reflect on the legacy of First Lady Rosalynn Carter (RIP) and the importance of caregiving, plus the historical significance of Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address (read by me). I also share some practical tips – and pet peeves – about proper gym etiquette, emphasizing respect and consideration for others in shared spaces.

Watch now and discover: → There are only four kinds of people in the world: caregivers. → Caregiving is a tough job, but it’s essential work. → Abraham Lincoln faced multiple failures before becoming president. → The Gettysburg Address is a pivotal moment in American history. → Proper gym etiquette enhances the experience for everyone, so treat it like an operating room, while your daily fitness program is important for overall well-being…so just do it!

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50 Rules of Badassery on Tola Talks – Ep #206

Today Tola Talks about my 50 Rules of Badassery while exploring the themes of personal growth and how to stay positive, the transformative power of hypnotherapy, and the journey of overcoming addiction. The discussion emphasizes the belief that the universe supports individuals in their quest for self-improvement and highlights the importance of commitment and support in the recovery process.

Watch now and discover: → Transformation is a continuous process, not a one-time event. → Embracing change is essential for personal development. → The journey of self-improvement is unique for everyone. → Personal growth often requires facing and overcoming challenges. → The universe is conspiring for your highest good in every area of your life.

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Transgender Conversion Therapy on Tola Talks – Ep #195

In this episode of Tola Talks, Happy Friday was always an adventure in Kindergarten when I taught during COVID. I also pay tribute to Christopher Reeve and MLK, Jackson Browne and the Hoover Dam (Happy Birthday to both), plus I discuss the important issues surrounding transgender rights and conversion therapy. The conversation is filled with insights, humor, and heartfelt memories, making it a rich listening experience. Thanks for tuning in!

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Live-streaming and More on Tola Talks – Ep #191

Hey everyone, Tola Talks is back!

This time around it’s all LIVE, so hope you can join us on YouTube or LinkedIn or X (formerly Twitter) or Twitch. For today’s Episode #191 we kept it short and sweet while discussing my new book, The Sub: Tales of an Inner-City Teacher, plus some excellent teachings from the Chinese philosopher and humanitarian, Confucius.

Have an awesome day and as always, get your workout in! Peace – R

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New beginnings matter…so begin at once!

Every day you wake up is another opportunity to pursue your dreams and begin something new. So follow your heart and make great choices everyone – always – and no doubt heed the words of our President Barack Obama, “Choose to listen not to your doubts and fears, but to your greatest hopes and highest aspirations.”

A special thanks to my photographer Dana Patrick for these amazing new pics. Have an awesome day, and whatever you do, remember to get your workout in!

Peace – R

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Go With All Your Heart

Many years ago, my sister gave me this polished piece of black stone inscribed with this:

Wherever You Go, Go With All Your Heart

I’ve keep it by my bed ever since, to remind me of what should be. For everyone on the planet.

Because it’s all about shining your light – coming from your heart, that is – out into the Universe in the most positive, truthful and heartfelt way.

Hey, what do you expect coming from a Yoga dude who’s been practicing and teaching this mind-body-spirit, self-love and self-respect, “it’s a lifestyle” practice for over twelve years.

Think about it. Wouldn’t life be grand If you shared the very best of you…all the time. You know the one: upbeat, positive, smiling, confident, respectful and considerate. To name a few.

Happy Valentine’s Day everyone!

Peace – R

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The Power of One

Never underestimate the power of your thoughts, and without question, never ever underestimate The Power of One.

For the third time in 20 years I’m reading Bryce Courtenay’s , The Power of One. An amazing tale of a young boy’s travels and heartfelt metamorphosis – not to mention his spiritual influence on everyone he meets – that’s “part Charles Dickens, part Horatio Alger”, as described by the Raleigh News & Observer. More specifically, this magical journey filled with heartache and pure elation inspires anyone really listening to its deep-rooted message…to always listen to yourself and believe in the power of one:  one idea, one heart, one mind, one plan, one determination.

Before I leave you with a paragraph from the novel that rings true no matter what your occupation or calling, take time to reflect on 2016 and set your thoughts on an even better 2017! Mine was quite amazing, with several milestones that set the course for my one idea:

  1. Created my unique style of Tola Yoga after 10 years of teaching 2k classes & 25k students,
  2. Produced the original Reality TV series pilot, YogaStyles of RICH and the Almost Famous,
  3. Celebrated 50 years of fitness – 40 years of weightlifting plus over 10 years of Yoga,
  4. Celebrated 10 years as an Entertainer/Producer and Yoga Teacher (and Yogatainer),
  5. Lived in three amazing cities: Chicago, Las Vegas and Seattle (love it here!)

And whatever your goals are for the New Year, remember to respect yourself with a daily fitness program. And just like young Peekay says, dare your courage to follow your thoughts:

“The power of one is above all things the power to believe in yourself, often well beyond any latent ability you may have previously demonstrated. The mind is the athlete; the body is simply the means it uses to run faster or longer, jump higher, shoot straighter, kick better, swim harder, hit further, or box better. Hoppie’s dictum to me, “First with the head and then with the heart,” was more than simply mixing brains with guts. It meant thinking well beyond the powers of normal concentration and then daring your courage to follow your thoughts.”

Have a safe and Happy New Year everyone! Peace – R

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Happy Autumn Everyone…Make it a Cleansing One!

Summer’s over and you’re back in the groove while sportively enjoying the August-like weather.

Now what? How about making the first day of Autumn a great time for a change. A simple change, one that involves deleting a bad habit from your daily repertoire.  It doesn’t have to be a major lifestyle change, i.e., quit smoking cigarettes or partying every weekend. Although that would be awesome if you could – which you definitely can, no worries, just pick an easy one like replacing your lunchtime soda with water, or stop eating bread and butter before your meal.

Easier said then done, you might say, but that’s BS…because you can do anything you set your mind to. So make it a cleansing Fall everyone, and drop bad habits like acorns from an oak tree!

Peace – R