Have you ever felt pressure to be the “perfect” teacher—or the “perfect” student?
In this honest and heartfelt conversation, Byron de Marse shares his personal experiences of becoming a teacher and the complex relationship that develops between teacher and student. He explores how stepping into the role of a teacher often brings up feelings of doubt, discomfort, and the fear of being seen. But rather than avoiding these feelings, Byron believes they are invitations to grow.
The episode touches on how students often project ideas onto their teachers—seeing them as more wise, perfect, or powerful than they really are. This can create tension on both sides. Byron speaks openly about the responsibility teachers hold, the need to keep learning, and how being a teacher is really about being in service—not in control.
He also dives into the importance of confidence, vulnerability, and humility in both teaching and learning. Whether you’re new to teaching or deep in your practice, this episode is a reminder that nobody has it all figured out—and that’s okay.
✨ This episode will leave you thinking deeply about the energy you bring into the spaces you hold, and how we can all honor the sacred exchange between student and teacher.
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Episode Chapters:
00:00:00 Introduction
00:04:10 Byron's Journey into Teaching
00:11:44 The Power Dynamic in Student-Teacher Relationships
00:16:30 Projecting Perfection and Receiving Projection
00:22:55 Teaching as a Mirror
00:29:35 Vulnerability and Confidence as a Teacher
00:35:58 Owning the Seat of the Teacher
00:41:02 When the Student Becomes the Teacher
00:47:19 Closing Reflections on Teaching with Integrity
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📚 Mentions & Resources:
Michael Henri’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelyoga.pt/
Byron de Marse’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/byronyoga/
Going Pro Yoga’s Instagram: https://www.instagram/com/goingproyoga/
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Tags: teacher-student dynamics, yoga teaching, imposter syndrome, vulnerability, comparison, personal growth, space holding, self-inquiry, yoga philosophy, emotional intelligence
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