Meet Matthew Shaw

We were lucky to catch up with Matthew Shaw recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Matthew, appreciate you sitting with us today to share your wisdom with our readers. So, let’s start with resilience – where do you get your resilience from?

My resilience—my “thick skin,” if you will—undoubtedly stems from my 20-year career as a professional opera singer. The sheer volume of rejection inherent in that world taught me invaluable lessons, chief among them: you can’t please everyone. Over time, I learned that true resilience isn’t about bending to meet others’ expectations but about staying true to yourself, even in the face of criticism or setbacks.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

I’m a yoga teacher, mentor, and retreat leader with a passion for helping people feel stronger, more grounded, and more connected through movement and mindfulness. My journey into yoga started after a 20-year career as a professional opera singer, where I learned the power of resilience and the importance of staying true to oneself—lessons I now integrate into my teaching.

What I find most exciting about what I do is the chance to create transformative experiences, whether it’s through a thoughtfully designed yoga class, a mentorship session with fellow teachers, or one of my international retreats. My programs go beyond the physical practice; they’re about cultivating inner strength and clarity. I take pride in crafting environments—whether in a studio, online, or in stunning retreat locations—where people can truly connect with themselves and with others.

The year 2024 was filled with exciting milestones! My November retreat, Flow, Nourish, & Thrive 2.0, held at the stunning Casa Fuzetta in Olhão, Portugal, sold out eight months in advance and left us with a waitlist of eager participants. Looking ahead, Flow, Nourish, & Thrive 3.0, scheduled for October 2025, has already sold out as well—an incredible testament to the community we’ve built. Beyond retreats, I’m expanding my online yoga studio to welcome more members into our practice. For yoga teachers, I’m also launching a mentorship program that dives into the art and business of teaching, offering guidance on everything from class planning to building community and leading successful retreats..

At its core, my work is about helping people thrive—on and off the mat. Whether you’re new to yoga or a seasoned teacher, my offerings are designed to meet you where you are and support your growth.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Looking back, I’d say three qualities have been most impactful in my journey: verbal communication, the ability to build a strong community, and self-regulation.

Verbal communication has been the cornerstone of my teaching career. The ability to express ideas clearly, guide others effectively, and adapt my words to meet the needs of my audience has been vital. For those early in their journey, I recommend practicing how you communicate complex ideas in simple terms and observing how others respond to your words. Listening is just as important as speaking.

The ability to build a strong community has been equally transformative. Yoga, for me, isn’t just about the practice; it’s about creating spaces where people feel seen, supported, and connected. If you’re just starting out, focus on building genuine relationships. Take the time to understand the needs of your students or audience, show up consistently, and foster a sense of belonging. Authenticity is key—it’s not about being perfect; it’s about being real.

Finally, self-regulation has been crucial in ensuring I practice what I preach. In a profession centered on well-being, staying grounded and balanced is essential. Whether it’s through mindfulness, movement, or simply stepping back to recharge, I’ve learned the value of prioritizing my own health to serve others better. My advice? Establish daily habits that support your physical and emotional well-being, and be patient with yourself—it’s a lifelong practice.

By focusing on these areas, you’ll not only develop your craft but also create a meaningful and sustainable path forward.

As we end our chat, is there a book you can leave people with that’s been meaningful to you and your development?

One book that has profoundly influenced my personal and professional development is Buddha’s Brain by Rick Hanson. It beautifully bridges neuroscience, mindfulness, and practical strategies for well-being, offering tools to rewire the brain for greater happiness, resilience, and inner peace.

One of the most impactful insights from the book is the idea that “neurons that fire together wire together.” This principle highlights how our repeated thoughts and actions literally shape our brain over time. It’s a reminder of the power of intentionality—how small, consistent practices can transform not just our habits but our entire mindset.

Another powerful takeaway is Hanson’s observation that “negative thoughts are like Velcro, while positive ones are like Teflon” for the brain. It explains why we often cling to criticism or setbacks while letting moments of joy or accomplishment slip away. Recognizing this tendency, I’ve learned to consciously savor positive experiences, giving them more time to sink in and counterbalance the brain’s natural negativity bias.

Finally, the book underscores the importance of self-compassion. It reminds me that nurturing my inner world isn’t just beneficial for me—it directly impacts how I show up for others. This wisdom has deeply influenced how I approach teaching and mentoring, encouraging others to practice kindness toward themselves as they grow.

Buddha’s Brain is a practical and inspiring guide, and its teachings continue to shape both my personal journey and my work with others.

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Andrew Bogard

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