Best Raphael Bender Podcasts (2025)

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321. When did Pilates become so obsessed with specific cues? With Raphael Bender 21:47

13d ago21:47

21:47

Pilates is all about cueing specific muscles, neutral spine and avoiding locking your joints, right? Often - yes. But it wasn't always that way. In fact all those things have flipped 180 degrees over the years since Joseph Pilates' day. Connect with me on Instagram: @the_raphaelbender Download a free course guide: Pilates Certification Studio Maste…

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322. From Zero to $23K/mo in 34 Days: Jennifer Tan’s Pilates Studio Launch in the Philippines 39:04

6d ago39:04

39:04

Jennifer Tan opened Bacolod’s first reformer Pilates boutique, Madila Pilates, and hit $23K revenue with 87% margins in her first month. She shares her journey from student success team member to thriving studio owner, why she expanded just weeks after launch, and the strategies fueling her rapid growth. Resources mentioned in the episode: Find Mad…

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320. The 5 stages of Pilates studio business, with Raphael Bender 23:05

20d ago23:05

23:05

These are the 5 predictable stages every Pilates studio owner goes through — from dreamer to thriving CEO. Exactly what breaks, plus what to do to grow at each stage. Stage 0 – Wantrepreneur Stuck in planning mode. No revenue. Fix: Stop thinking, start doing. Follow Ep 273 for exact steps. Stage 1 – Solopreneur ($1k–$10k/mo) Teaching, cleaning, sel…

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319. How to make your Pilates studio stand out in a sea of competitors, with Raphael Bender 46:08

27d ago46:08

46:08

This is for Pilates studio owners who are feeling pressure from an explosion of new studios offering the latest fads and undercutting prices. This is a step-by-step practical, battle-tested strategy to stand out without racing to the bottom or chasing trends. Here's the study I mention - 65% of people think they're above average intelligence: https…

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318. The Myth of Hands-on, with Heath Lander and Raphael Bender 44:36

1M ago44:36

44:36

Why we changed our minds on hands-on cueing in Pilates. Resources mentioned in the episode: Listen to Ep. 160. 'Can we even feel muscles activating' here Connect with me on Instagram: @the_raphaelbender Connect with Heath on Instagram: @contrologycollective Download a free course guide: Pilates Certification Studio Mastermind Teaching Mastery Progr…

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317. New Prenatal Guidelines with Nicole Mazurkiewicz and Raphael Bender 1:05:45

1M ago1:05:45

1:05:45

ACSM's new pre and postnatal exercise guidelines just came out, and there are several substantial changes. We talk through them, the evidence behind each one, and what they mean for Pilates instructors. Links: Narrative review of exercise dose during pregnancy here Exercise and pregnancy in recreational and elite athletes here Systematic review of …

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316. Why Simplicity Wins in the Studio, with Heath Lander and Raphael Bender 30:55

2M ago30:55

30:55

Raph and Heath share their journey from rigid STOTT Pilates rules to a science-backed, minimalist approach to teaching. Discover why doing less—fewer cues, less correction, and simpler programming—gets clients better results, more flow, and deeper engagement. Connect with me Raph on Instagram: @the_raphaelbender Connect with Heath on Instagram: @co…

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315. Can Pilates Make You Stronger? with Heath Lander and Raphael Bender 55:43

2M ago55:43

55:43

In this episode, Raphael and Heath challenge the myth that Pilates doesn’t build strength. They break down the science of strength adaptations, clarify what “strength” really means, and explain how Pilates can be a legitimate strength training method—when done right. Key Topics: What counts as “strength” and how it’s measured Why effort (not burn o…

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314. From Zero to $30k/Month in 5 Months – Brian’s Story, with Brian Darsie and Raphael Bender 2:36:43

2M ago2:36:43

2:36:43

Five months ago, Brian Darsie opened the doors to his Pilates studio. He had never taught a group Pilates class outside his certification course. Since then, he’s taken a two-week holiday, and last month, he hit $30k revenue and $16k profit—all without working insane hours. In this episode, Brian shares the mindset shifts, pricing strategies, and s…

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313. ‘True Strength Comes From Control’ — Really? with Heath Lander and Raphael Bender 56:00

2M ago56:00

56:00

You’ve heard it a thousand times: strength comes from control. But what if that’s only half true? In this episode, we challenge the dogma, unpack the nuance, and explore where real strength actually comes from—in Pilates and beyond. Connect with me on Instagram: @the_raphaelbender Connect with Heath on Instagram: @contrologycollective Download a fr…

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312. Change Is Good – If You Do It Right, with Natalie Wilson and Raphael Bender 1:04:40

3M ago1:04:40

1:04:40

Natalie shares how she navigated fear, self-doubt, and career pivots—and what made the difference. If you’re thinking about change, this is how to do it right. And some pitfalls to avoid! Connect with me on Instagram: @the_raphaelbender Connect with Natalie on Instagram: @nataliewilsonpilates Download a free course guide: Pilates Certification Teac…

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311. Do it scared, with Natalie Wilson and Raphael Bender 43:40

3M ago43:40

43:40

In this episode, Raphael talks with Natalie—a Pilates instructor who faced her fears, took imperfect action, and built a new life teaching Pilates. They explore: Why waiting to feel “ready” holds so many people back. How Natalie pushed through fear, self-doubt, and imposter syndrome. What it really looks like to take the leap while still feeling sc…

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310. Strengthening: Simpler (but not easier) than you think, with Nicole Mazurkiewicz and Raphael Bender 1:06:49

3M ago1:06:49

1:06:49

In this episode, Raphael and Nicole cut through the noise around strength training—and explain why it’s way simpler than most Pilates instructors think. They break down: Why you don’t need to chase “the burn,” perfect form, or sore muscles. What actually creates strength gains (hint: it’s not magic or mystery). The 5 key adaptations that happen whe…

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309. Why Some Instructors Light Up The Room - and How You Can Too, with Natalie Wilson and Raphael Bender 54:13

3M ago54:13

54:13

Charisma isn’t magic—it’s a skill you can practice. In this episode, we break down the four elements of charisma—technical expertise, body language, vocal tone, and emotional intelligence—and how each one helps you connect, lead, and inspire. Whether you’re naturally introverted or born with “resting Zen face,” this episode will teach you to be mag…

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308. What To Do When You Don't Know What To Do, with Natalie Wilson & Raphael Bender 45:24

3M ago45:24

45:24

Not sure what to do when a client shares a diagnosis with you at the start of class? Here’s the simple framework to stay calm, take action, and lead like a pro. Summary: Raphael and Natalie break down simple, actionable strategies for Pilates instructors when faced with unknown client conditions moments before class. Learn how to stay calm, ask the…

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307. Why Pilates Should Look Ugly Sometimes, with Heath Lander and Raphael Bender 55:04

4M ago55:04

55:04

Heath and Raph unpack why good form isn’t always desirable. They break down the difference between skill and strength training, explain when “ugly” movement signals progress, and share how to program smarter by revisiting exercises with different loads. A must-listen for Pilates instructors who want results. Connect with me on Instagram: @the_rapha…

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306. The Jibber-Jabber Episode - Why Your Cues Aren't Landing, with Natalie Wilson and Raphael Bender 1:18:00

4M ago1:18:00

1:18:00

Still saying “engage your core” or “axial elongation”? In this episode, Raphael and Natalie break down why so many Pilates cues are confusing, ineffective—or just made up. Learn what makes a cue actually work and how to stop sounding like a Pilates thesaurus. Connect with me on Instagram: @the_raphaelbender Connect with Natalie on Instagram: @natal…

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305. Tonight We're Gonna Teach Reformer Like It's 1996, with Heath Lander and Raphael Bender 1:12:50

4M ago1:12:50

1:12:50

Most of us were trained to teach using outdated methods designed for boutique studios in the ‘90s. But tonight it's 2025 and Pilates is different now. In this episode, we unpack why group teaching feels so hard — and why it’s not your fault. You don’t need more confidence. You need the right tools. Whether you’re teaching 6 or 16, this convo with H…

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304. Reformer Faceplant! Who’s to Blame, and What to Do Instead, with Natalie Wilson and Raphael Bender 1:09:15

4M ago1:09:15

1:09:15

A client fell off a reformer—and Instagram exploded. Raph and Natalie unpack what really causes falls, why blame isn’t helpful, and how instructors can prevent injuries without turning class into a snoozefest. Expect practical teaching tips, clear cueing advice, and no-punches-pulled commentary. See the IG post that sparked this episode here: https…

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303. The Science of Results: How to Design Sessions That Actually Work, with Raphael Bender 1:36:00

5M ago1:36:00

1:36:00

This episode is Part 2 of a live lecture I gave for our Diploma students at Breathe Education — and it picks up where last week’s episode left off. If you haven’t listened to Part 1 yet, go back and do that first. It covers all the foundational concepts about what strength actually is, and how it works in the body. This episode builds on those idea…

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302. Everything you know about strengthening is probably wrong, with Raphael Bender 1:56:06

5M ago1:56:06

1:56:06

This episode is a recording of a live lecture I gave on the Physiology of Strength Training for our Diploma students at Breathe Education. If you want it to actually make sense — and go deep — I highly recommend downloading the PDF lecture notes and following along while you listen. Download the notes here: https://breathe-edu-downloads.s3.amazonaw…

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301. Why Isolation Exercises Are A Waste Of Time, with Raphael Bender 20:10

5M ago20:10

20:10

I think there are 2 incorrect assumptions that lead people to the mistaken idea that isolation exercises are useful - they're not. I break down those beliefs, make the case for using simple compound movements, and share the top 6 movements I use with clients (and myself). Connect with me on Instagram: @the_raphaelbender Download a free course guide…

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300. What is the Scope of Practice of a Pilates Instructor? With Raphael Bender 27:07

5M ago27:07

27:07

I think we go about this all wrong in Pilates. In this episode, I share my (non-legally binding) thoughts. Connect with me on Instagram: @the_raphaelbender Download a free course guide: Pilates Certification This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: AdBarker - https://adbarker.com/privacy…

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299. How to 5x Profit In Your Studio In 90 Days, with Raphael Bender 28:52

6M ago28:52

28:52

These are the strategies I used in my own studio, and that I use with my coaching clients to increase profits quickly. Enjoy. Connect with me on Instagram: @the_raphaelbender Download a free course guide: Pilates Certification Mentioned in this episode: Work with me 1:1 to grow your business This podcast uses the following third-party services for …

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298. Hypermobility & Scoliosis: What Science Actually Says, with Raphael Bender 1:54:15

6M ago1:54:15

1:54:15

In this episode, we break down the key research on hypermobility and scoliosis, cutting through myths and weak evidence. Learn how hypermobility affects pain sensitivity, the real relationship between scoliosis and back pain, and why most exercise studies for scoliosis are low-quality. If you’re a movement professional or just curious about the sci…

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297. The Biggest Back Pain Myth, with Raphael Bender 30:52

6M ago30:52

30:52

Probably everything you were taught in your certification about back pain is wrong. Lifting heavy doesn’t wreck your spine. “Bad posture” isn’t the cause. Avoiding movement? That’s likely making things worse. In this episode, we break down the myth that spinal load and “incorrect movement” cause low back pain. We’ll cover: Why research shows no str…

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296. Why Can't I Find Good Staff For My Pilates Studio? With Raphael Bender 32:26

6M ago32:26

32:26

This is what we've learned over a decade and a half of building a successful business with amazing people - how to attract the exact right people - the answer might surprise you! Read about Breathe Education Culture here: https://breathe-education.com/culture/ Connect with me on Instagram: @the_raphaelbender Download a free course guide: Pilates Ce…

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295. Stop focussing on minutae, with Raphael Bender 18:18

7M ago18:18

18:18

In this episode, I share my thoughts on why we should spend less time on fine details, and more time on working our clients through range, under load, with control. Connect with me on Instagram: @the_raphaelbender Download a free course guide: Pilates Certification Visualized Anatomy This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis…

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294. The case for loaded spinal flexion, with Raphael Bender 19:07

7M ago19:07

19:07

Why are we still hanging on to the idea of neutral spine in the Pilates world? It's not even part of Pilates, and it's certainly not science-based. Plus, it's just plain illogical. Resources mentioned in the episode: You can bias lower abs from upper abs by doing posterior pelvic tilt vs ab curl here People with LBP lift with LESS flexion in their …

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293. Building an Online Pilates Business: From Pain to Purpose, with Bernadett Gazsi and Raphael Bender 1:03:11

7M ago1:03:11

1:03:11

In this episode, Raphael Bender chats with Bernadett Gazsi, a Dallas-based Pilates instructor who transitioned her business online to help moms overcome back pain. Bernadett shares: • How her clinical Pilates education ignited her purpose. • Strategies for building a remote business while moving across continents. • Insights into high-touch client …

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292. Is strict form necessary for results? With Raphael Bender 16:24

7M ago16:24

16:24

I talk through a recent study looking at whether strict form gives better results from exercise. Resources mentioned in the episode: Read the paper cited in the episode here Connect with me on Instagram: @the_raphaelbender Download a free course guide: Pilates Certification Visualized Anatomy This podcast uses the following third-party services for…

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291. Is reciprocal inhibition a thing? With Raphael Bender 18:37

7M ago18:37

18:37

Can you reduce activation of one muscle, by increasing activation of another? Find out in this episode. Resources mentioned in the episode: Read the paper cited in this episode here. Connect with me on Instagram: @the_raphaelbender Download a free course guide: Pilates Certification Visualized Anatomy This podcast uses the following third-party ser…

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290. Get Out Of Overwhelm - 3 Simple Metrics To Fix Your Pilates Studio, with Raphael Bender 37:59

8M ago37:59

37:59

You can watch this episode on YouTube here Free workshop on how to track these KPIs plus a free Google Sheet here Connect with me on Instagram: @the_raphaelbender Download a free course guide: Pilates Certification Visualized Anatomy Mentioned in this episode: Work with me 1:1 to grow your business This podcast uses the following third-party servic…

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289. Do Biomechanics Matter For Running Injury Prevention? with Raphael Bender 42:27

8M ago42:27

42:27

Do biomechanics predict running injuries? Learn how to move beyond single-factor thinking, the 80/20 of injury prevention, and why simple changes like increasing cadence can reduce risk. Clear, actionable tips for Pilates instructors to help clients run injury-free, or rehab injured runners. Connect with me on Instagram: @the_raphaelbender Download…

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288. Is Too Much Flow Hurting Your Classes? with Heath Lander and Raphael Bender 46:22

8M ago46:22

46:22

Flow is a cornerstone of Pilates, but can there be too much of a good thing? Raphael Bender and Heath Lander dive into the balance between seamless transitions and overwhelming choreography. Learn how to harness flow to keep your clients engaged, avoid common pitfalls, and create transformative sessions that leave them saying, “Where did the time g…

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287. My Christmas Gift To You - A Proven Promo To Boost Your Studio Revenue 11:22

8M ago11:22

11:22

This episode is my Christmas gift to you: a done-for-you promo that will help you attract new clients, increase revenue, and make your current clients feel like the ultimate gift-givers. 🎁 I'm releasing this episode a day earlier than usual to give you an extra day to run the promo. What’s Inside: How to run a $270 gift card promo for just $50, to …

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286. All-time top 5 group reformer exercises, with Raphael Bender 50:14

9M ago50:14

50:14

The most versatile, valuable exercises to know (like the back of your hand) to master group reformer programming and teaching. Connect with me on Instagram: @the_raphaelbender Download a free course guide: Pilates Certification Visualized Anatomy This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: AdBarker - https://adbarker.com/priv…

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285. Simple, Not Easy: What Separates Great Pilates Teachers, with Heath Lander and Raphael Bender 54:49

9M ago54:49

54:49

In this episode of Pilates Elephants, Raph sits down with Heath Lander to explore a surprising truth: great Pilates teaching is simple—but not easy. They discuss why simplicity is the ultimate challenge for instructors and how it sets the best apart from the rest. You'll learn how to focus on what really matters, avoid over-complicating your teachi…

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284. How to REALLY progress your Pilates clients, with Raphael Bender 1:13:48

9M ago1:13:48

1:13:48

In this episode of Pilates Elephants, Raphael Bender and Heath Lander break down how to truly progress your Pilates clients for long-term health, happiness, and longevity. They challenge conventional wisdom about progression, spring settings, and perfect form, offering practical insights to elevate your teaching. For more insights, tune in to the f…

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283. The surprisingly nuanced link between movement quality and back pain, with Kevin Wernli and Raphael Bender 1:27:37

9M ago1:27:37

1:27:37

In this episode of Pilates Elephants, Raphael Bender and Dr. Kevin Wernli dive into the surprisingly nuanced relationship between movement and pain. They explore why changing movement patterns doesn’t always reduce pain, (and when it can!) the limits of the biomechanical model, and how beliefs and context play a crucial role. Discover actionable in…

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282. How to Make Your Clients Feel the Burn EVERY Class (4 Science-Based Tips), with Raphael Bender 22:09

10M ago22:09

22:09

In this episode, we break down four science-backed methods to help your clients feel that post-workout “burn” every time. Learn how to use the principles of the Repeated Bout Effect (RBE) in reverse to keep your classes feeling fresh, challenging, and effective. These tips will help you consistently create that sought-after soreness so clients feel…

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281. Pilates or Cardio for Weight Loss? With Raphael Bender 1:58:13

10M ago1:58:13

1:58:13

Resources mentioned in the episode: Watch this episode on YouTube here Download the slides as a PDF here Connect with me on Instagram: @the_raphaelbender Download a free course guide: Pilates Certification Visualized Anatomy Become a Breathe Education Mentor Affiliate: Program info This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: …

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280. Prenatal Pilates Myths, with Charlotte Brooks and Raphael Bender 1:32:32

10M ago1:32:32

1:32:32

Resources mentioned in the episode: Charlotte’s IG @aurorapilates here Corkinetic post on “compensations” here Connect with me on Instagram: @the_raphaelbender Download a free course guide: Pilates Certification Visualized Anatomy Become a Breathe Education Mentor Affiliate: Program info This podcast uses the following third-party services for anal…

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279. Do slow controlled reps build more strength? With Raphael Bender 15:09

10M ago15:09

15:09

You’ll have to listen to find out! Resources mentioned in the episode: Systematic review on repetition tempo effects on strength, power and hypertrophy here Connect with me on Instagram: @the_raphaelbender Download a free course guide: Pilates Certification Visualized Anatomy Become a Breathe Education Mentor Affiliate: Program info This podcast us…

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278. Does Pilates strengthen your little muscles? With Raphael Bender 16:49

10M ago16:49

16:49

Well yes, but not how you might think! Resources mentioned in the episode: Direction specific recruitment pattern of the rotator cuff in shoulder flexion here MORE load stimulates the rotator cuff MORE here Role of muscles is task specific here Any loaded arm movement strengthens the rotator cuff here Connect with me on Instagram: @the_raphaelbende…

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277. How to be more evidence based, with Emily Walker & Raphael Bender 1:33:33

11M ago1:33:33

1:33:33

Resources mentioned in the episode: Emily’s study here All major high quality clinical guidelines recommend person centered care here Adding extra pain education did not improve outcomes over usual care here Patient led goal setting here and here Connect with Emily on Instagram: @emwalker_exphys and LinkedIn Connect with me on Instagram: @the_rapha…

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276. Rehab is just graded exercise - updated, with Raphael Bender 31:05

11M ago31:05

31:05

Rehab really is simple. Most people over-complicate it IMO. Here is my framework to rehab any injury. Connect with me on Instagram: @the_raphaelbender Download a free course guide: Pilates Certification Visualized Anatomy Become a Breathe Education Mentor Affiliate: Program info This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: AdB…

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275. How to put the client at the center of the session, with Emily Walker and Raphael Bender 1:30:19

11M ago1:30:19

1:30:19

Resources mentioned in the episode: All major high quality clinical practice guidelines recommend client centered care here Changes in TrA thickness and timing don’t correlate with reductions in pain after TrA retraining here Changes in strength & flexibility don’t correlate with reductions in pain after strength or flexibility training here When a…

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274. How to progress any exercise, with Raphael Bender 19:09

11M ago19:09

19:09

This is my process for making any exercise harder - or easier. Connect with me on Instagram: @the_raphaelbender Download a free course guide: Pilates Certification Visualized Anatomy Become a Breathe Education Mentor Affiliate: Program info This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: AdBarker - https://adbarker.com/privacy…

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273. How to build a $100k Pilates business at home - updated, with Raphael Bender 36:09

12M ago36:09

36:09

Step by step instructions to build a $100k Pilates business at home and quit your 9-5. Resources mentioned in the episode: How to get Pilates clients with Google ads How Kerri is making $100k teaching Pilates in her shed How Teneille made $100k teaching in her garage How Sandi is making $100k teaching in her spare bedroom Episode 171 - how to colle…

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Raphael Bender Podcasts

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