Being the Best Bad Yoga Teacher in the World: A Chat with Bad Girls Yoga Founder Gillian Gossow

After teaching private yoga in Manhattan for a decade, Gillian Gossow noticed something was missing in the yoga world: joy, celebration, and maybe a little rosé. Now, as the founder of Bad Girls Yoga—home of the celebrated ”Namaste then Rosé” classes—she’s revolutionizing how we think about yoga, one toast at a time. From a single class in Charleston, to over 100 instructors nationwide, Gossow’s ”bad girl” approach to yoga is proving that breaking the rules might be exactly what the wellness industry needs.

We sat down with Gillian to talk about her unique journey, what yoga really means to her, and why being a “bad” teacher turned out to be the best decision she ever made.

On breaking the mold and building Bad Girls Yoga

How did you come across the opportunity to teach with Bad Girls Yoga?

“After teaching private yoga in Manhattan for a decade, I moved to Charleston, SC, and launched Bad Girls Yoga,” Gossow shares, “I wanted to create a class that was fun, lighthearted, and truly celebratory, no matter the occasion.”

Throughout her career, Gossow trained with some of the country’s best instructors. However, something wasn’t quite clicking. “I often felt like I didn’t quite fit into the traditional style of teaching; it just didn’t feel relatable to everyone, regardless of age or experience. I realized that if I was going to be a ‘bad’ yoga teacher by not fitting the mold, then I was going to be the best ‘bad’ yoga teacher possible.”

The result? The creation of Bad Girls Yoga and our signature “Namaste then Rosé” toast at the end of each session—a moment that perfectly encapsulates Gossow’s fresh take on yoga practice.

Finding purpose on the mat

What does yoga mean to you? How has it impacted your life?

“Yoga has given me a true sense of purpose, especially during times when I wasn’t sure where I belonged,” Gossow reflects. “To me, it’s the gift of a pause—an opportunity to give someone 60 minutes away from the demands of everyday life.”

Her philosophy challenges the notion that yoga must be serious to be meaningful: “Yoga doesn’t have to be about complicated poses or perfect form; sometimes, it’s simply laying on your mat, taking a breath, and being exactly where you are.”

What inspires you to continue teaching yoga to others?

“What keeps me teaching yoga is the pure joy of seeing a group of students light up, share smiles, and connect with each other. Watching them walk away with a lasting, happy memory brings me so much fulfillment. When a group tells me that this was the best part of their weekend, it’s the ultimate reward.”

Breaking down the practice

What’s your favorite yoga pose, and what do you love about it?

“My favorite pose is Pigeon!” Gossow explains, “We tend to hold a lot of tension in our bodies, especially in the hips, where stress can feel almost ‘stuck’ from so much sitting throughout the day. Pigeon pose creates space to release that built-up energy and teaches you how to breathe through discomfort, which is such a powerful lesson on and off the mat.”

Let’s clear the air – what’s a common misconception about yoga you’d like to address?

“A big misconception about yoga is that you need to be strong, flexible, experienced, or young to start practicing.” She clarifies, “In reality, yoga is for everyone, and classes can be taught in countless ways to fit different needs.”

The Bad Girls Yoga Experience

Describe your class style. What can newcomers expect?

“My teaching style is all about creating a class that meets the group’s vibe and requests," Gossow shares. “I love to bring in great music, focus on breath, and keep the energy light and fun. I enjoy offering hands-on adjustments when appropriate, and I always aim to build a sense of connection with my students, making each class feel personal and engaging.”

What makes you proud to be a Bad Girls Yoga instructor?

Gossow smiles wide. “I started Bad Girls Yoga with the intention of teaching classes in a style that I love, and it has grown beyond my wildest dreams to now employ over 100 instructors nationwide! I’m incredibly proud to work alongside so many talented, strong women who share my vision.”

Get ready for joy! Book your Bad Girls Yoga session

For those feeling nervous about their potential first class, Gossow’s advice is refreshingly simple: “Give Bad Girls Yoga a try! Our instructors are dedicated to making everyone feel comfortable from the very first five minutes to the final pose. You’ll leave with a fresh perspective on what a yoga class can be: fun, welcoming, and completely unique.”

Her top tips for first-timers? “Wear something comfortable, bring water, and find a spot that feels just right for you. If class is outdoors, don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a beach towel to stay relaxed and protected in the sun!”

Ready to experience the Bad Girls Yoga difference for yourself? Fill out our inquiry form today and join the community that’s redefining what yoga can be—one Namaste (and Rosé) at a time!