I appreciated his candidness and that it wasn't such a "serious" interview but more of a conversation. I thought it was funny he picked up the phone with "Q-Tip." To the comments below, I think we should accept that every person has original and unique perspectives that we don't have to agree with. That's part of the interesting thing about being alive is difference between people. I don't find anything he said could be offensive to anyone as he seemed to be all about inclusion and awareness of many different religions and practices, etc. Appreciate the interview, nice entertainment for a Sunday morning.

about a week ago in Brevard, US

This interview really excited me! I had no idea he was so knowledgeable on the subjects of so many different religions and their applications to daily life. It made me want to explore further.

I don't understand why someone would think that My Yoga Online should take down a video just because a couple people don't agree with it. If you don't like this interview, try opening your mind and your heart...

ps. I love that he answered the phone! :)

Great job, Michelle! I look forward to more interviews.

11 months ago in Richmond, US

Hello again, thank-you for your comments. I did not misread, was asking for more details about what seemed to be upsetting the person who wrote it. To be honest, I am a bit confused as to what the real source of this friction is. Nevertheless, I will try to voice my own perspective. I feel that with the very high level of visibility that Russel Simmons has, and with the years of promoting yoga and meditation to those who follow him, that he has a rare opportunity to share these valuable gifts with people why may never be exposed to them otherwise. And we all know that the world would be a better place if we would all partake in these practices. This is part of the reason why I do what I do. I have been, and will continue to be, doing interviews with many different sorts of people who are involved in the growing/learning yoga community. I feel/hope that this is a powerful way for us all to become more aware; and to judge less. I do not make personal judgments about those I am interviewing, and recognize that each person has their own unique perspectives and gifts to share.
I truly and sincerely appreciate all of your comments and feedback. I really do. To communicate in an open and honest way is perhaps one of the best things we can all strive for.
p.s. thank-you for your kind words geogo535!
Namaste,
Michelle

11 months ago

I agree with skyebird... and cmendoza had very positive criticism for you Michelle. I recommend Michelle reread and take what was said as positive feedback. MYYOGAONLINE should remove this video, very disappointed with the interview and character of Russell Simmons. Thank you for posting comments, whether positive/negatively viewed by interviewer or others. PS. Michelle I always like everything you have put on this site and rally that you continue to do great yoga work. Thank you.

11 months ago in Brooksville, US

very sweet! Thanks.

about 11 months ago in Saluda, US

I was really intrigued to see Russell Simmons talking about meditation and yoga. I really didn't know this about him at all; I have a dear friend who was a poetry slammer on one of shows.

I think what would have helped me enjoy this interview more was an intro perhaps by Michelle Trantina about why she decided to bring this interview to our awareness, what was it that drew her to his book and why we should be aware of his teaching. This way it contextualizes the work for us a bit.

I wish he had not picked up the phone during the interview but there's nothing you can do about that! :)

Overall, I was interested.

about 11 months ago in Austin, US

Actually, I think it's great.

12 months ago in Adelaide, AU

Hi skyebird - I am the one who did the interview with Russel. May I ask what concerns you with this and what you feel is nonsense?
Love to hear your response.
Sincerely,
Michelle

12 months ago

I cannot believe that yogaonline.com supports this nonsense. This is incredibly disappointing.

12 months ago in Houston, US