Core with Shawna Beardsley | A Pilates Podcast

Teaching Privates vs. Groups: What Changes and What Stays the Same

In today’s episode, we’re diving into the differences—and surprising similarities—between teaching private sessions and group classes. Whether you’re shifting between formats or trying to improve in one area, understanding how to tailor your teaching while staying true to your core principles is key.

Handling Difficult Clients & Awkward Moments in Class: Professional, Compassionate Solutions for Group Instruction

In this episode, we tackle one of the less glamorous but essential parts of being a group fitness or Pilates instructor: managing challenging client behavior and navigating awkward situations in class. Whether it’s a disruptive participant, someone pushing boundaries, or an unexpected mishap, we’ll walk through strategies that keep your studio environment safe, professional, and compassionate.

Expand or Stay Small? Defining Growth on Your Terms

Is bigger always better? Not necessarily. In this episode, we explore the decision every studio owner faces at some point: to expand or to stay small and intentional. We’ll walk through what real growth looks like, why scaling isn’t always the goal, and the key questions to ask before opening another location or adding a new service. This is about building a business that supports your life—not the other way around.

Handling Difficult Conversations: Clients, Staff & Studio Boundaries

From awkward client cancellations to tough performance talks with instructors, uncomfortable conversations are part of owning a Pilates studio. In this episode, we’re talking about how to handle them with professionalism, clarity, and compassion—without losing your cool or your standards.

Strong as a Mother: Pilates, Pregnancy, and Empowering Women Through Movement

Happy Mother’s Day! In this special episode, I’m reflecting on my personal journey of teaching and practicing Pilates during pregnancy—and how that experience deepened my commitment to supporting and empowering women through every season of life. We’ll talk about how pregnancy shifted my perspective as both a mover and an instructor, the importance of honoring the body without fear, and why a science-based, up-to-date approach to pre- and postnatal Pilates is non-negotiable. Whether you’re a mom, an instructor, or both, this episode is a celebration of strength, change, and honoring what your body can do.

Teaching Mistakes Pilates Instructors Make (and How to Avoid Them)

Even the best instructors slip into habits that don’t serve their clients—or their own growth. In this episode, we’re breaking down common teaching mistakes in Pilates, from over-cueing and lack of flow to underestimating the power of presence. Whether you’re new to teaching or a seasoned pro, these tips will help you sharpen your awareness, deepen your impact, and create a better experience for everyone in your class.

The Backup Plan Is You: Studio Ownership and the Sub Struggle

Owning a Pilates studio sounds dreamy—until it’s 6 a.m. and your instructor texts out sick. In this episode, we’re talking about the real-life “ball and chain” moments of being a studio owner: scrambling for last-minute subs, managing a sub list that sometimes disappears, and why—no matter how prepared you are—you’ll often be the one jumping in. It’s not glamorous, but it is part of the job. Let’s talk about how to navigate it with grace, grit, and just enough caffeine.

Creating Class Plans That Deliver Results: Structure with Purpose

Ever feel like you’re just stringing exercises together and hoping for the best? In this episode, we’re breaking down how to create intentional, goal-driven class plans that deliver real results—whether you’re focusing on strength, mobility, balance, or all of the above. Learn how to plan sessions that flow, challenge, and keep clients progressing week after week.

Mastering Mixed Levels: Progressions, Regressions & Keeping Your Class Flowing

Teaching a room full of clients with different abilities can feel like juggling Pilates rings—but it doesn’t have to throw off your class rhythm. In this episode, we dive into how to confidently teach mixed-level sessions using smart progressions and regressions that keep everyone moving safely and successfully—without disrupting your flow.

Teaching Tips for Pilates Instructors: How to Elevate Your Classes

Whether you’re a brand new instructor or a seasoned pro, there’s always room to grow in your teaching craft. In this episode of Core Conversations, we’re diving into practical, real-world teaching tips to help you lead more engaging, effective, and impactful Pilates classes.
We’ll cover:
• How to cue clearly for all learning styles
• The art of progressing and regressing movements without losing the flow
• Ways to keep group classes dynamic and connected
• Voice, energy, and how to truly show up in the studio
• Common pitfalls (like over-cueing or losing control of pacing)—and how to fix them
This one’s packed with actionable insight to help you feel more confident, connected, and creative as a Pilates teacher.