Awarepreneurs - #305: Igniting Gratitude into Social Change - an Interview with Yoga Gives Back's Kayoko Mitsumatsu

🔖 Titles

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1. Igniting Gratitude: How Yoga Gives Back is Creating Social Change Through Microfinance 2. Yoga Gives Back: Building Communities, Empowering Women, and Changing Lives Through Microfinance 3. From Television Producer to Yoga Philanthropist: The Inspiring Journey of Kayoko Mitsumatsu 4. Empowering Women, One Microloan at a Time: Yoga Gives Back's Impact in India 5. The Power of Yoga and Microfinance: How Kayoko Mitsumatsu's Initiative is Changing Lives 6. Harnessing the Power of Yoga: Kayoko Mitsumatsu's Journey to Social Change in India 7. Spreading Hope and Empowerment: Yoga Gives Back's Impact on Women and Education 8. Inspiring Global Change: Kayoko Mitsumatsu's Vision of Using Yoga for Social Impact 9. Making a Difference with Yoga: Kayoko Mitsumatsu's Journey of Empowerment and Service 10. Fueled by Gratitude: The Story of Yoga Gives Back's Transformational Impact in India

💬 Keywords

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physical practice, Asana, yoga, meditation, discipline, television production, exploitation, Yoga Gives Back, budget, volunteer, television producer/director, India, microfinance, financial independence, self-esteem, peer support, group accountability, gender discrimination, domestic violence, educational scholarships, community, empowerment, COVID-19 pandemic, Nom Gaba Organization, Kayoko loan program, West Bengal, Calcutta, poor rural area, bank accounts, small businesses, saris, clay jewelry, straw mats, Kiva, microfinancing, poverty, Campace, nonprofit consultants, organization, sustainability, Los Angeles, Hong Kong, global audience, storytelling, outcome indicators, University of Michigan, business accelerators, values, global ambassadors, filmmaking, doctors, YouTube channel, website.

ℹ️ Introduction

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Welcome to Awarepreneurs, the podcast that explores the intersection of social change and entrepreneurship. In today's episode, titled "Igniting Gratitude into Social Change," we have an incredible interview with Kayoko Mitsumatsu, the founder of Yoga Gives Back. From the very beginning, Kayoko believed that yoga was much more than just a physical practice. She learned that the true essence of yoga lies in finding oneself through meditation and discipline. This realization led Kayoko to a profound shift in her career path. Having worked in television production, Kayoko felt exhausted and exploited by the relentless pursuit of stories for broadcasting purposes. Yearning for something meaningful, she took a leap of faith and started Yoga Gives Back, a remarkable initiative aimed at creating positive social change. Starting with no budget and volunteering her time as a television producer/director, Kayoko traveled to India to capture the stories of those in need. Little did she know that her passion for yoga would lead her on a transformative journey towards empowering women and children in impoverished communities. Through microfinancing, Kayoko discovered a powerful path to change. Not only does it provide financial independence and self-esteem, but it also fosters peer support within communities. Women are able to discuss domestic issues, support one another, and overcome gender discrimination and domestic violence. Education and economic opportunities have the power to ignite action and create lasting impact. Kayoko's organization works with NGOs in India, training women to start their own businesses, such as making saris, clay jewelry, and straw mats. Additionally, they provide scholarships for higher education, empowering young girls to pursue their dreams. Join us as we dive deep into Kayoko's inspiring journey, learn more about her organization's impact, and explore the transformative power of gratitude in catalyzing social change. Get ready to be inspired, motivated, and enlightened. Let's dive in!

❇️ Key topics and bullets

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I. Introduction to the Podcast Episode - Brief introduction to the podcast, "Awarepreneurs" - Introduction of the episode title and guest speakers, Paul Zelizer and Kayoko Mitsumatsu II. Kayoko Mitsumatsu's Journey and Inspiration for Yoga Gives Back - Speaker's understanding of yoga beyond physical practice (Asana) - Realization that life's purpose is to serve others - Feeling tired and exploitative in television production - Starting Yoga Gives Back as a meaningful endeavor - Volunteering time as a television producer/director for the organization III. Microfinance and its Impact on Empowerment - Financial independence, self-esteem, and peer support through microfinance - Group accountability and close peer relationships - Empowering women to discuss domestic issues and support each other - Community and support for girls receiving educational scholarships IV. Education and Economic Empowerment - Education and economic opportunities enabling individuals to take action for others - Providing assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic through empowered individuals V. Yoga Gives Back Programs in India - Collaboration with Nom Gaba Organization NGOs in India - Kayoko loan program in West Bengal, South of Calcutta - Training women to open bank accounts and start businesses - Examples of successful businesses: making saris, clay jewelry, and straw mats - Microloan program started in 2010, scholarship program in 2013 VI. Connection Between Yoga and Microfinance - Speaker's experience with microfinancing documentary in 2006 - Combining passion for yoga and desire to make a positive impact - Creation of the initiative "For the cost of one class, you can change a life" VII. Growth and Development of Yoga Gives Back - Evolution from a volunteer-run organization without a big budget - Expansion to over 30 countries and numerous campaigns - Seeking advice from nonprofit consultants and CEOs - Importance of building a robust organization for continuity and impact - Current efforts to grow the organization and improve salaries for staff VIII. Keeping the Global Yoga Community Connected and Informed - Helping people in Los Angeles, Hong Kong, and India stay connected to yoga and India's changes - Challenges of reaching a global audience and keeping them informed IX. Impact and Success of Yoga Gives Back - Gratitude for empowering over 2400 women and children in India - Support from yoga communities in 30 countries - Role of ambassadors and global gatherings/events in fundraising - Operating with one full-time employee and board/advisory board support - Scaling up operations and long-term planning X. Importance of Storytelling and Impact Measurement - Recognizing storytelling as crucial for impact entrepreneurs and leaders - Outcome indicators and quantifying impact - Failures in traditional business accelerators for social entrepreneurs - Need for intentionality, creativity, and listening in business planning - Depth of impact intentionality and unique business models for impact entrepreneurs XI. Utilizing Podcasting and Filmmaking for Impact - Using podcasting and filmmaking as storytelling mediums - Enlisting teachers worldwide for yoga fundraisers and awareness events - Sharing inspiring stories of the people helped by Yoga Gives Back - Importance of human connection and amplifying impact stories XII. Conclusion and Acknowledgment - Praise for the speaker's effective integration of storytelling into their work - Mention of the impact documented through YouTube and website - Recognition of the speaker's dedication to podcasting and storytelling n

📚 Timestamped overview

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02:54 Microfinancing led to creation of life-changing program.

06:49 30-year dedication to public television, starting nonprofit.

09:03 Yoga teacher follows passion, inspires volunteers worldwide.

12:25 Building an organization for long-term impact.

17:02 Microloans and education programs empower women in India.

23:28 Keeping people globally connected in yoga.

28:31 Teachers as global ambassadors, filming inspiring stories.

31:09 Podcasting amplifies impact stories for $500.

34:58 16 years empowering 2400+ women, children in India. Yoga communities in 30 countries support. Raised 50,000, 100,000 during COVID. Seeking scaling project. Challenge: quantifying global yoga community empowerment.

38:03 Two buckets: impact and scaling, impressive numbers

43:31 Struggle to engage big brands, but persist.

47:37 Peter, Paul. Research shows traditional accelerators don't work.

52:12 Check show notes for links and support.

🎞️ Clipfinder: Quotes, Hooks, & Timestamps

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Kayoko Mitsumatsu 00:05:21 00:05:24

Microfinancing and the Power of Yoga: "For the cost of one class, you can change a life."

Kayoko Mitsumatsu 00:07:57 00:08:07

The Growth of Yoga and Spirituality in Los Angeles: "I had no business plan. Well, nothing to be very proud of, but in terms of structure, I just had a very strong calling. That's it."

Kayoko Mitsumatsu 00:09:17 00:09:28

"The Real Goal of Yoga: 'The real goal is like, really finding yourself and your bigger self within your ourselves and, you know, like, meditation and all these disciplines will take us there.'"

Kayoko Mitsumatsu 00:13:52 00:13:57

Building an Organization for Longevity: "So you have to build the organization robust enough that if I die tomorrow, somebody will come in and take over and the programs can continue."

Kayoko Mitsumatsu 00:19:13 00:19:32

Empowering Women through Microloans and Education: "I'm so proud to say today, like, we see 200, almost 200 young people graduated already with college degrees, and we are this program is now funding 400 mainly girls, but some boys too, to continue their education, we see this tremendous transformation in their lives and in their families."

Kayoko Mitsumatsu 00:21:11 00:21:17

Financial Independence and Peer Support: "It's not just the financial independence and self-esteem, but also the peer support they create through this microfinancing. Or microloan structure...they become such a close peer group..."

Kayoko Mitsumatsu 00:30:46 00:30:52

Nonprofit's Impact: "Even if you give us $10 a month, that really touches somebody's life in a very fundamental way."

Kayoko Mitsumatsu 00:35:00 00:35:09

Empowering Women and Children in India: "After 16 years, Now we are empowering 2400 or more women and children in India. So we are very proud of that number."

Kayoko Mitsumatsu 00:41:19 00:41:44

Creating Stronger International Connections: "So I love to see if we can really strengthen these international wings. So there is a budget to support their activities and, so that I don't have to be on top of all these, you know, different branches, but there's somebody who can, you know, be in charge of local communities, events, and campaigns because every country has different situation."

Kayoko Mitsumatsu 00:45:39 00:45:52

The Role of Yoga in Social Entrepreneurship: "But fundamentally, I think it's for everyone. You know, social entrepreneurs are people who are thinking not just profit maximization, but trying to create this world a better place at the same time as well as making profit."

🎬 Reel script

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[Background music playing] Host: Hey, fellow entrepreneurs! Paul here, bringing you the highlights from an incredible episode of Awarepreneurs. I had the privilege of interviewing Kayoko Mitsumatsu, the founder of Yoga Gives Back. [Cut to video clips of Kayoko Mitsumatsu] Kayoko: Yoga is more than just physical practice. It's about finding ourselves through meditation and discipline. [Cut to video clips of Kayoko's journey] Kayoko: I left my TV production career to pursue something meaningful. That's when Yoga Gives Back was born. [Cut to video clips of Yoga Gives Back initiatives] Kayoko: We started with no budget, but thanks to amazing supporters, we've grown and empowered over 2,400 women and children in India. [Cut to video clips of microfinancing and education initiatives] Kayoko: Through microfinance and education scholarships, we're breaking the cycle of poverty, empowering women, and supporting communities. [Cut to video clips of global events and ambassadors] Kayoko: Our global community of yoga practitioners and leaders are making a difference. Together, we're raising funds and awareness through events and ambassador programs. [Cut to video clips of impact stories] Kayoko: Stories like Dr. Kumar, whose life we helped transform, inspire us every day. [Cut to Kayoko speaking] Kayoko: Storytelling is crucial for impact entrepreneurs. It connects us, amplifies our message, and creates lasting change. [Cut to subscribe call-to-action] Host: If you want to join the movement and be part of something bigger, subscribe to Awarepreneurs and check out Yoga Gives Back's website and YouTube channel to see the impact of your donations. Together, we can ignite gratitude into social change. [End with logo animation and outro] Host: Thanks for watching, and remember, your business can make a difference. Keep inspiring and making an impact. [Music fades out]

👩‍💻 LinkedIn post

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🌟 Igniting Gratitude into Social Change - an Interview with Yoga Gives Back's Kayoko Mitsumatsu 🌟 I recently had the honor of interviewing Kayoko Mitsumatsu, the founder of Yoga Gives Back, on our podcast, Awarepreneurs. We dove deep into the transformative power of yoga and how it can fuel social change. Here are three key takeaways from our conversation: 1️⃣ The Power of Microfinance: Kayoko shared how Yoga Gives Back empowers women in India through microfinance. These small loans not only provide financial independence and self-esteem but also create tight-knit peer groups that foster discussion, support, and combat gender discrimination. The impact of microfinance goes beyond financial well-being, transforming lives and breaking the cycle of poverty. 2️⃣ Community and Empowerment: Education and economic opportunities are essential for social change. Kayoko's organization provides scholarships to young girls, creating a sense of community and support that empowers them to take action. When individuals are equipped with education and financial resources, they can make a difference in their communities and even extend support during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic. 3️⃣ The Power of Storytelling: Kayoko's vision and passion are fueled by the power of storytelling. Through her work as a filmmaker, she documents the inspiring stories of the individuals her organization has helped. By sharing these stories through podcasts, YouTube, and their website, Yoga Gives Back cultivates a deep sense of human connection and amplifies the impact they are making. Yoga Gives Back is a shining example of how intentionality, storytelling, and community can be the catalysts for social change. Their mission reminds us that practicing gratitude and giving back can transform lives and create a brighter future for all. To listen to the full interview, tune in to our podcast episode "Igniting Gratitude into Social Change." Let's continue to spread awareness and inspire action! #SocialChange #YogaGivesBack #Gratitude #Microfinance #Empowerment #Storytelling #Awarepreneurs [Include a link to the podcast episode or Yoga Gives Back's website for further information]

🗞️ Newsletter

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Subject: Igniting Gratitude into Social Change - Interview with Kayoko Mitsumatsu Hello Awarepreneurs community, We hope this email finds you well and inspired to make a difference in the world! Today, we have an exciting episode for you on our podcast, "Awarepreneurs," titled "Igniting Gratitude into Social Change." In this interview, our host Paul Zelizer sits down with Kayoko Mitsumatsu, the founder of Yoga Gives Back, to discuss how yoga and microfinance are transforming lives in India. Kayoko shares her personal journey of leaving a career in television production to follow her passion for making a meaningful impact. Through Yoga Gives Back, she has been able to channel the power of yoga into social change, providing microloans and educational scholarships to women and children in rural India. During the interview, Kayoko highlights the incredible transformation that microfinance brings, not only in terms of financial independence and self-esteem but also in creating close-knit peer support networks. These networks empower women to discuss domestic issues, support each other, and combat gender discrimination and domestic violence. The conversation also delves into the growth of Yoga Gives Back over the past 16 years, from humble beginnings as a volunteer-driven initiative to a global organization operating in over 30 countries. Kayoko discusses the challenges she has faced and her plans for scaling up operations to increase impact and sustainability. As a storytelling medium, podcasting has allowed Kayoko to amplify the impact of Yoga Gives Back and connect with a global audience. Through captivating narratives and inspiring stories, she has been able to showcase the positive change brought about by their initiatives, including the incredible journey of a young boy who became a doctor with their support. Furthermore, with the power of global ambassadors and filmmaking, Yoga Gives Back is expanding its reach and creating awareness through fundraisers and yoga events around the world. By sharing these stories, Kayoko aims to deepen our understanding of the impact of our donations and inspire us to become agents of change. Lastly, Kayoko emphasizes the importance of storytelling in the work of impact entrepreneurs and leaders. It is through storytelling that we can create human connections, amplify our messages, and ignite gratitude towards fostering social change. If you haven't already, we invite you to tune in to this incredible episode of "Awarepreneurs" and join our community of conscious entrepreneurs. Together, let's continue to explore innovative ways to create positive change in the world. Stay tuned for more inspiring episodes, expert insights, and powerful stories on the Awarepreneurs podcast. Thank you for being part of this transformative journey! With gratitude, The Awarepreneurs Team

🧵 Tweet thread

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🌟THREAD🌟 Join me as I take you on an inspiring journey with @kayokoMitsu - the founder of Yoga Gives Back, an organization that has been changing lives through microfinancing and the power of yoga. Prepare to be inspired! 💫 1/ Yoga is not just about the physical practice. @kayokoMitsu was taught that the real goal is to find oneself through meditation and discipline. This belief sparked a passion within her to make a difference in the world. #YogaGivesBack 2/ After years of working in television production, @kayokoMitsu felt tired and exploitative of people's stories for broadcasting purposes. She decided it was time to do something meaningful and that's when Yoga Gives Back was born. 💪 3/ With no budget and as a volunteer producer/director, @kayokoMitsu filmed in India to share stories. The organization grew, thanks to the support and belief of those around her. Microfinance became the backbone of their mission, creating independence and empowerment. 💼 4/ Through microloans, women not only gained financial freedom and self-esteem, but they also formed close-knit peer groups where they could support each other through life's challenges. This community became a powerful force in combating gender discrimination and violence. 💪🚺 5/ Education plays a crucial role in empowerment. Yoga Gives Back started a scholarship program, supporting 400 students. These young girls not only receive an education but also benefit from the sense of community and support that comes with it. 🎓 6/ In partnership with Nom Gaba Organization NGOs, @kayokoMitsu launched the Kayoko loan program in a poor rural area of West Bengal, India. Women were trained to start their own businesses, making saris, jewelry, and mats. The impact has been life-changing! 🔥 7/ The growth of Yoga Gives Back hasn't been easy. @kayokoMitsu juggled multiple roles and received low pay. But through determination and support, the organization expanded to over 30 countries, supporting more than 2400 women and children in India. 🌍 8/ Storytelling has been a key factor in the success of Yoga Gives Back. Through their YouTube channel and website, people can see the impact their donations have on individuals' lives. @kayokoMitsu believes in the power of human connection and amplifying impact stories. 📹 9/ Podcasting has also played a significant role in telling these incredible stories. @kayokoMitsu has been podcasting for 303 weeks, showcasing inspiring experiences and the overall impact of Yoga Gives Back. 🎧 10/ I'm in awe of @kayokoMitsu's dedication and vision. She has shown us that through yoga and microfinancing, we can make a difference in the lives of others. Let's support @YogaGivesBack and empower more individuals to thrive! 🌸✨ #YogaGivesBack #Empowerment #Microfinancing #MakeADifference #Inspiration END/

❓ Questions

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1. Why did the speaker decide to start Yoga Gives Back and leave their job in television production? 2. How does microfinance empower women and help combat gender discrimination and domestic violence? 3. What role does education play in empowering individuals to take action for others? 4. How did the speaker come up with the idea of using the money spent on yoga classes for microfinancing? 5. How has Yoga Gives Back grown and evolved over the past 16 years? 6. What challenges has the speaker faced in scaling up the organization and ensuring continuity and impact? 7. How has social media, particularly LinkedIn, helped the speaker connect with and engage a global audience? 8. What are some strategies used by Yoga Gives Back to keep people informed and involved in the organization's work in India? 9. How does storytelling contribute to the impact and success of Yoga Gives Back? 10. How can traditional business accelerators better support and nurture social entrepreneurs from marginalized communities?

🪡 Threads by Instagram

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Post 1: Ignite change through gratitude! In this episode of Awarepreneurs, we chat with Kayoko Mitsumatsu, founder of Yoga Gives Back, about their mission to empower women and children in India through microfinance and education. Listen now and be inspired to make a difference! 🙏🌍 #SocialChange #YogaGivesBack Post 2: Microfinance + Yoga = Empowerment 💪 Kayoko Mitsumatsu shares the incredible impact of microloans and education on women and girls in India. Tune in to this episode of Awarepreneurs to learn how these initiatives combat gender discrimination and uplift communities. 🌟 #Empowerment #Grassroots Post 3: Join the movement! Yoga Gives Back is creating waves of change across 30 countries, empowering over 2400 women and children. In this episode, we delve into their inspiring journey and discover how giving back through yoga can transform lives. 🌎✨ #YogaForGood #GlobalCommunity Post 4: Storytelling + Impact = Transformation 🎥🌍 Kayoko Mitsumatsu, the visionary behind Yoga Gives Back, believes in the power of storytelling to drive social change. In this episode, dive deep into her personal journey and witness the transformational impact of sharing inspiring stories. 🎙️🌟 #StorytellingMatters #InspiringChange Post 5: Threads interview alert!🔥Kayoko Mitsumatsu, founder of Yoga Gives Back, joins us to discuss her mission of empowering communities in India. From microloans to education, she shares the ripple effect of support, proving that even small actions can ignite remarkable change. 🌱💫 #CommunityEmpowerment #InspiredAction

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