Rich discusses the implications of grade inflation and deflation, its impact on students’ future earnings, and the evolving standards in higher education. He shares personal experiences and insights on how grading practices influence motivation and college admissions. Plus, an interesting Quote of the Day from William Shakespeare.
Give Back & Think Positive on Tola Talks – Ep #203
As we celebrate Veterans Day, today is the time to honor those who have served in the United States military, dead and alive. It’s also an opportunity to reflect on how each of us can give back to our communities. In this episode of Tola Talks, it’s all about positivity while keeping life simple and giving back to society. I also shares key aspects of my personal development book, How to Drink from the Fountain of Youth: 30 Steps to Everlasting Youth, as well as historical insights and practical steps to inspire everyone to make a positive impact in their lives. We also explore how embracing simplicity and gratitude can transform our lives and the lives of others.
As always, keep it simple and get your workout in! Peace – R
Kindness, Domestic Violence & Forgiveness on Tola Talks – Ep #197
In yesterday’s Tola Talks, we discuss the themes of kindness, domestic violence, and self-forgiveness. The conversation begins with a reflection on kindness and its profound impact on our lives and DNA. As October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we delve into the complexities of domestic violence, its effects on individuals and families, and the importance of recognizing and addressing it. The discussion transitions into the theme of self-forgiveness, emphasizing the need to let go of blame and embrace accountability as a path to healing.
If you or anyone you know is a victim of Domestic Violence, please watch this show and share it with your friends! Peace – R
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
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!
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:
- Created my unique style of Tola Yoga after 10 years of teaching 2k classes & 25k students,
- Produced the original Reality TV series pilot, YogaStyles of RICH and the Almost Famous,
- Celebrated 50 years of fitness – 40 years of weightlifting plus over 10 years of Yoga,
- Celebrated 10 years as an Entertainer/Producer and Yoga Teacher (and Yogatainer),
- 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
Whatever You Do, Finish Strong…Like Usain Bolt
Nine-time Olympic Gold medalist and the world’s fastest man (for the past 10 years), Usain Bolt, confidently concedes that “there are faster starters than me but I’m a strong finisher”.
Because no matter when you begin your new venture or how quickly you come out of the starting blocks, the most important part of the race is the finish line. So finish strong!
Just like we’re doing with YogaStyles of RICH and the Almost Famous: CHICAGO. Yesterday we recorded the voice-over and we’re now thundering towards the finish line.
Have an awesome day everyone! Peace – R
Does it Serve You Well?
Tola Talks 6 Rules to Success by Arnold Schwarzenegger
Here’s one of my favorite Tola Talks…the 6 Rules to Success by Arnold Schwarzenegger. Because who doesn’t want to be their best and find success in whatever you do! Peace – R
Weekdays on youtube.com/tolatalks and all Social: @richtola
Tola Talks Zipper Medians & Top 10 Quotes by Pope Francis
Tola Talks about the New England Patriots Vince Wilfork lending a helping hand, shark attacks in Australia and zipper medians on San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge. On Top 10 Tuesday, Rich also gives us the the Top 10 Quotes by Pope Francis.
Weekdays on youtube.com/tolatalks. All social: @richtola




