'Where We Soften' by Kate Kendall

About 'Where We Soften' by Kate Kendall

Where We Soften is a podcast about people who love what they do — and who’ve been shaped by what they’ve survived. Hosted by Kate Kendall, each episode explores how life’s messes can become meaningful messages. Through intimate conversations with creatives, thinkers, and doers, the show dives into modern, practical spirituality, intuition, creativity, and the cultural conversations shaping our time. Get ready to listen to real conversations or participate in 'softening' practices of many kinds. This is a space for honesty, depth, and remembering that softness can be a strength.

Publisher

Kate Kendall

Category

society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

27 Jan 2026

Latest episode

25 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

11 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   25 Oct 2026

   Your Body - a temple or not real?

   Do you over-identify with the body? Do you struggle with how you look and how you appear to others? What if the body is both sacred and not actually real? In this deeply reflective solo episode I unpack the tension between two powerful spiritual frameworks to reveal perhaps a more expansive way of seeing your physical body and experiencing your Self than you may be currently. If you've ever over-identified with the physical body - this is for you. Drawing from personal recovery in addiction to control, breast implants being put in and then taken out, a formative lesson from an early yoga teacher, and years of studying ancient wisdom traditions, I explore why the body can be treated as a temple without becoming your identity. We also look at: Why the over-used term, Your Body is a Temple can be a devotional practice, not just a wellness slogan How some traditions see the body as an instrument for expanding consciousness Why others challenge the body as a mental projection, not ultimate reality And... how they’re also saying the same thing and working towards the same goal: Self-Realisation and that we are not "this body". The difference between "holding tension” between two ways of thinking and “sitting on the fence” How body shame, comparison, and control can quietly shape your sense of self in ways unexpected and with spirit-diminishing consequences. What it means to treat attention as an act of love If you’ve ever felt pulled between spirituality and being human, devotion and detachment, one friend and another, one thought system or another or self-care and self-acceptance, this episode offers a grounded, compassionate way through. Practice with me here: Youtube.com/@TheActiveYogi Read me here: Activeyogi.substack.com Find me here: Instagram.com/activeyogi/

2. 

   22 Aug 2026

   Returning to the Wild Uncivilizing the Nervous System

   What if your nervous system didn't need to be 'controlled'. What if it just needs to be listened to? In this episode I share a deeply personal teaching from a retreat experience I'm co-hosting in Africa that becomes a powerful invitation to return to your body, question what you call "safety," and notice where comfort, familiarity, and people-pleasing have quietly taken the wheel. Sitting alone in a hotel room after choosing rest over social obligation, I unpack the inner tug-of-war between being a team player and honoring what she truly needs. That moment opens into a bigger conversation about how we prepare for intense experiences, why younger versions of us often perform instead of serve, and what changes when we stop asking, "How do I sound?" and start asking, "What wants to come through?"You'll discover: Why "safety" and "familiarity" are not the same thing How the body gets "civilized" into ignoring hunger, fatigue, intuition, and anger What Kate means by "uncivilizing the nervous system" How retreat, travel, and unfamiliar environments reveal hidden patterns The difference between reacting from ego and responding with presence This episode is perfect for yoga practitioners, sensitive high-achievers, people-pleasers, and anyone craving a calmer, more embodied relationship with discomfort, uncertainty, and self-trust. If you've been feeling overbooked, overextended, or overly civilized, this conversation offers a way home.

3. 

   2 Jul 2026

   Uncovering the Truth about Eating Disorders

   Vanity and self obsession or an addiction to control? So what are eating disorders? Where do they begin? Why do they take hold? And why can't someone experiencing one simply "eat normally"? In this episode of Where We Soften, I sit down with Olivia Soha, founder of Uncovery, whose team of eating disorder recovery coaches walks alongside people through the realities of recovery and relinquishing the need to control. They do the hard things together: sharing meals, buying clothes that fit changing bodies, saying yes to social events that once felt impossible, and gently rebuilding a life that eating disorders often steal away. Olivia also shares the extraordinary spiritual experience that changed the course of her life, and together we explore a quality many people with eating disorders seem to share: profound sensitivity. While this sensitivity can feel overwhelming in illness, in recovery it can become one of our greatest strengths - a source of deep intuition, compassion, creativity, and connection. This conversation is a compassionate look beyond the stereotypes, offering hope, understanding, and a reminder that recovery is about so much more than food. Find out more about Olivia's work here: https://www.uncovery.com.au Follow me here: https://www.instagram.com/activeyogi/ And practice with me here: https://www.youtube.com/@TheActiveYogi

4. 

   10 Jun 2026

   What I Learnt in Early Recovery

   Today’s episode is a solo one. I do have a guest lined up for release next but I wanted to frame it and give it some context by sharing with you some of my own personal experiences with eating disorder recovery. You may be thinking this will not be relatable to you but you may just be surprised at how most of us experience what I did in different shades when we decide to liberate ourselves from the grips of control (of any kind!) And - I do encourage you to stay til the end where I will offer up a short contemplative practice aligned with the topic at hand.

5. 

   8 May 2026

   The Mother in you, me, us all.

   In the lead up to Mother’s Day, I find myself drawn not only to the personal figure of my mother - or even to myself as a mother - but to something older than identity. Something ancient. Wiser. More mysterious. More difficult to name. Like The Great Mystery itself (God, Source, Universal Life Force) what I’m reaching toward here feels ultimately ineffable. Language, in some ways, diminishes it. Words reduce what was never meant to be contained. And yet, for the sake of communion, for the sake of trying to touch the untouchable together, I’ll refer to her simply as: The Mother. Not a role. Not a Hallmark category. Not even necessarily a person. But a pattern woven through time, culture, psyche and body. A presence that has been revered, feared, embraced, mystified, sanctified - and at times, forgotten. +++ Want to connect in person? Come to The Breath Experience at Mindful Garden Stanmore, Sun 14 June. Book and find out more here. https://mindfulgardenyoga.com.au/the-breath-experience-with-kate-kendall/ Come on a wild adventure with me to Botswana in August? Check it out here. Time to re-wild. More here: https://nourishtravel.com/botswana-retreat-with-kate-kendall

6. 

   14 Apr 2026

   Beyond the ‘Golden Cage’: into the wild with Thierry Nyfeler

   In this conversation with Thierry Nyfeler, we hear the story of someone who chose to break free from what he calls his “golden cage" - a place that was comfortable and fairly certain for 'success' as he ascended in his career in Switzerland but that was keeping him from creativity and adventure. Rather than having everything mapped out, Thierry allowed his path to unfold - guided more by instinct over certainty - into what is now Munga Plains: a yoga retreat and safari experience set on the edge of Chobe National Park in Botswana. What began almost as a joke became something much more. A quiet nudge away from risk-averse thinking, and toward something wilder, more alive. A willingness to take a bet on adventure - not just for himself, but for the many people now touched by what he’s created. There’s also a humility in his story. Along the way, there were betrayals, missteps, and moments that could have hardened him. Instead, they seem to have softened him - even opening the door to compassion for those who took advantage of him. His story reminds me of something Jim Carrey once shared about his father - that you can fail at something you don’t love, so you might as well take a chance on what you do. If you’ve been playing it safe… if something in you is waiting to begin but hasn’t quite found the courage yet - this conversation might meet you there. We also explore the quiet magic of retreat and how stepping out of the noise of everyday life allows us to loosen our grip - on identity, on time, on the constant doing - and return to a more natural rhythm that so often goes unnoticed. If it calls you, come along for the journey. And if you feel curious to experience it for yourself, I’ll be hosting a retreat at Munga Plains this August. Big love, and thank you for listening, KK x Find out more about my own offerings and writings on my Substack: https://substack.com/@activeyogi Website: www.activeyogi.com.au Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/activeyogi/ Find out more about the Retreat I'm hosting at Munga Plains in Botswana in August: https://nourishtravel.com/botswana-retreat-with-kate-kendall And about Munga Plains here: https://www.mungaplains.com www.munga.travel https://www.instagram.com/mungaplains/

7. 

   1 Apr 2026

   Freedom is in Having Nothing to Lose

   Today is a solo episode in which I’m offering you a contemplation. In many spiritual traditions, contemplation is not about finding the right answer, but about learning how to stay with a question. To hold it lightly. To let it breathe. It’s a softening of the need to understand, and an opening to something more intuitive - something that reveals itself slowly, over time. So in the episode I’ll offer the contemplation and then let the words following sit with you. Try not to ‘understand’ intellectually but rather receive my words or offering and see what resonates. I hope you get something medical from this today and all of your days.

8. 

   19 Mar 2026

   Keeping Yoga Real with Amy Landry

   In this episode we’re joined by Amy Landry - a yoga teacher of many years, an Ayurvedic practitioner, mentor, author, and mother of two who's deeply devoted to preserving the depth and integrity of the traditional yoga teachings based here in Australia. She’s written an incredible new book, 'The Sea of Yoga' which dives deep into the world of reductionist yoga. We talk about and cover topics from the fall of the Guru (and why teachers are still relevant), we de-bunk some yogic misconceptions and talk about how to keep yoga real in our every day lives. This is a must-listen for all yoga teachers and students and anyone who’s navigating a messy middle - remembering that these places are where we can lean into and create more meaningful stories. 01:39 Why She Wrote Ocean of Yoga 03:37 Writing Through Transition 05:12 Divinely Guided Creative Flow 08:15 Interconnected Yoga Teachings 10:06 Yoga History and Context 13:56 Myths and Misconceptions 19:26 Where Teachers Should Start 25:47 Lineage and Life Mentors 30:33 Early Life Before Yoga 32:19 Dance Injuries Spiral 33:13 Fire Accident Recovery 33:56 Yoga Practice Awakening 35:42 Retirement Into Teaching 37:03 Gurus Falling Teachings Stay 39:40 Karma Sovereignty Boundaries 45:08 Advice To Younger Self 49:43 Vedic Astrology Validation 52:02 Page 108 Stewardship 55:15 Integrity Trust Patience 58:55 Preorder Bonus Farewell FOLLOW MY 'SOFTENINGS' HERE (https://www.instagram.com/activeyogi) on Instagram. (https://amyelandry.com/oceanofyoga/) And the pre-order bonus here (https://amyelandry.com/oceanofyoga-preorder/) and follow her here (https://www.instagram.com/amyelandry/).

9. 

   13 Feb 2026

   Navigating Liminal Spaces: Embracing Change & Rest

   In this episode, we explore the concept of liminal space, a transitional phase in life where individuals experience change and uncertainty. We emphasize the importance of productive rest, particularly through practices like yoga nidra, which can help us all navigate these in-between moments. The discussion also touches on the Japanese concept of 'ma,' highlighting the significance of pauses and spaces in life. I encourage you all to embrace these liminal spaces as opportunities for growth and creativity rather than challenges to be overcome. Key Takeaways Liminal space is a transitional phase in life. Productive rest is essential for integration and self-discovery. Yoga nidra is a powerful tool for restorative practices. The Japanese concept of 'ma' emphasizes the importance of pauses. Rest is not just a reward; it's a necessary condition for growth. Liminal spaces can lead to profound identity shifts. The nervous system requires safety during times of change. Creative insights often emerge from resting in uncertainty. Regular practice of yoga nidra can enhance emotional resilience. Embracing the unknown can lead to magical experiences. If you're interested in exploring the magic of Yoga Nidra enquire here (https://therest.lovable.app). A new at-home retreat experience begins Tuesday 17 th February 2026. Join from anywhere in the world.

10. 

    1 Feb 2026

    The Intersection of Yoga, Indigenous Wisdom & Ceremony with Ana Forrest & Jose Calarco

    In this episode of 'Where We Soften,' host Kate Kendall interviews Ana Forrest and Jose Calarco, who share their unique and deeply integrated approach to yoga that combines indigenous wisdom, ceremony, music, and physical practice. They discuss their international experiences, the challenges they've observed in yoga post-2020, and their specific teaching methods that address the needs of students at all levels, including beginners and those with injuries. The duo also touches upon their personal and professional partnership, which started serendipitously in an elevator, and how they incorporate shamanic practices into their lives and teachings. Key highlights include their thoughts on the spiritual aspects of yoga, the importance of setting intent, and the benefits of immersive experiences such as their retreats and workshops. 00:00 Introduction to 'Where We Soften' Podcast 00:42 Meet the Guests: Jose Calarco and Ana Forrest 02:17 Observations on Yoga and Society 07:03 Adapting Yoga Practices for All 10:03 The Unique Approach of Forrest Yoga 14:49 The Power of Ceremony in Yoga 16:05 A Magical Partnership: Meeting in an Elevator 25:43 Vision Quest and Personal Healing 38:41 Secrets of the Wind: Retreat Experience 42:53 Conclusion and Upcoming Events Dates for their upcoming Australian tour: Sydney 20-22Feb 'Building a Warrior's Heart' (https://powerliving.com.au/events/anaforrest-jose) 3 day experience at Power Living Manly. Byron Bay 6-8 Mar ‘Secrets of the Wind’ (https://www.forrest.yoga/events/retreat-secrets-of-the-wind-with-ana-jose-in-byron-bay/edate/2026-03-06/) Byron Yoga Centre The 50% discount code is: SECRETS50 Merimbula 20-22 Mar 'Unraveling the Mysteries of the Internal Wilderness' (https://www.forrest.yoga/events/workshop-weekend-with-ana-jose-in-merimbula-au/edate/2026-03-20/) 3 day experience at The Yoga Humm Find out more about Forrest Yoga here (https://www.forrest.yoga) and scroll their insta feeds for Jose here (https://www.instagram.com/josecalarco/) and Forrest Yoga here (https://www.instagram.com/forrestyoga/). And if interested in taking my Yoga Nidra 4-week at home retreat starting 17 February 2026, 'The Rest' enquire here (https://therest.lovable.app). Find me on instagram (https://www.instagram.com/activeyogi/).

11. 

    27 Jan 2026

    The Mythical Creature Called 'Balance', Authenticity & What's Really Real?

    Join my friend, Maura and I for a nourishing real chat that begins with a grounding practice and explores the elusive concept of 'balance' -what even is that anyway? They discuss the challenges and importance of authenticity, sharing personal stories and insights from their journeys. The conversation touches on the impact of societal expectations, the necessity of play, and the importance of listening to oneself. Discover how to navigate life's wobbles, embrace vulnerability, and find harmony in both personal and professional realms. We each get real about personal 'messes' that have gone on to become magic in their messaging. 00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Conversation 02:27 Grounding and Attunement Exercise 09:26 Exploring the Concept of Balance 13:22 Personal Stories of Struggle and Burnout 27:01 The Importance of Play and Authenticity 35:38 Navigating AI in Communication 35:58 The Power of Gut Instincts 36:52 Authenticity in the Age of AI 37:17 Deep Connections vs. Social Media 39:03 The Value of Honesty and Authenticity 45:08 Integrating Wellness into Work 48:33 Embracing Unique Life Paths 56:47 Learning from Failures and Realignments Find more about Maura and the work she does here (⁠https://www.maurakcreative.com⁠ ) and catch up on my latest writings (https://substack.com/@activeyogi), practices (https://www.youtube.com/TheActiveYogi) and more here (https://www.activeyogi.com.au).

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