DERRICK Interview with Yoga Expert Acharya Sri Khadi Madama

February 25, 2013

AcharyaYogaEncouragement Speaker Derrick Hayes gives a DERRICK Interview by asking 7 questions through each letter of his first name to give you an insightful perspective from other experts, entrepreneurs, celebrities and up and coming super stars.

Today’s DERRICK Interview is with Acharya Sri Khadi Madama who is a veteran speaker, workshop leader and special retreat host of 40 years.  Visionary, celebrity and author, she has a lot to share on a variety of subjects.  She is among the prestigious speakers listed with MPI (Meeting Planners International) and has bridged several speaking genres from motivational, spiritual, wellness, stress management and, of course, on the subject of Yoga.

Because of her versatility as a speaker, she has spoken to Realtors, health care professionals, at beauty trade shows, expos, museums, radio, college campuses, corporations and TV.

D  is for Dream. What is your dream and what have you  achieved?

My dream is to be able to start a non-profit organization in order to create a safe community for homeless women and children living in India by  creating a “pod project” of small bungalows created out of modified storage pods  that are self sufficient ie, solar panel to heat water, rooftop gardens. They  would be in safe gated communities with a large common house in the center for a  community kitchen and baths. The pods, although tiny would provide shelter. The  common house would also offer classes in reading, writing, and other Artisan crafts to help make the women independent.

In 2009, I received the Hind Rattan (Jewel of India Award) from the NRI Welfare Society, an esteemed organization that works very closely with the Indian Government. As far as I know, I am the only non-Indian origin person to  have received this award, which is usually reserved for NRI’s (Non Resident Indians) living abroad who help to sustain Indian culture around the globe. It  has been my dream to use my award status to gain visibility and credibility to  start the pod project.

E  is for Encourage. What encourages you?

This is a very difficult question because there is not one answer. I just seem to have this continuous flow of imagination that doesn’t seem to have a  limit. I am a prolific writer in several genres and a lot of creative energy. I  also have a passion for trying to make the world a better place. I’m blessed  with not needing others to encourage me. I’m usually the one encouraging them.

R  is for Resource. What resources do you bring to the table that makes you  unique or stand out?

My imagination; accountability; follow throw; positive attitude; good time management and I know how to take care of myself as well as know when it’s time  to rest until my battery is recharged. I’m also good at saying no, when it needs  to be said.

R  is for Ready. When did you realize you were ready for what you are doing  now?

Ideas incubate pretty quickly for me. As a writer, once I get an idea, I just start to write. I never have writer’s block and I never run out of ideas or  concepts. As for the pod project, it has been a very long running idea that I am  still not sure of how to bring to fruition, but having friends now retiring to  India, where I’ll be able to spend time, will make it a lot easier.

I  is for Individual. Name at least one person that you know that you feel others should learn about and why?

James Redfield. Author of the Celestine Prophecy. James is a true visionary of our times. He runs the Global Prayer Project for twice monthly  prayer/visualization and they are wonderful. Although I am a bit of a visionary myself, I rely on others to illuminate my own path.

Sarah Ban Breathnach. Author of Simple Abundance; Peace and Plenty; Something More, Moving On and more. Sarah is another visionary but probably doesn’t realize just how much of one she is.

The above two authors are my faves. I will read anything they write over and over again.

Chellie Campbell.  Author and financial stress relief visionary of The Wealthy Spirit. Her inspirational message is a salve for the challenging shifts  in the economy. Chellie is fabulous and friendly. This New York Best Seller List  author answers her own phone!!! She is truly inspiring.

C  is for Continue. When you fail, things look bleak or are not optimistic what  makes you want to continue?

I am an avid martial artist with 4 black belts, in 4 halls of fame and an author on the subject as well. as a warrior, I do not ever back down. when I  feel like I’ve gone 5 rounds with Tyson, I let myself crawl into bed with some  camomile tea and honey, darken the room, light a candle; maybe do a crossword  puzzle to reset my brain, let myself doze off and when I awaken, I’m ready to  get back up and start over again until I find the right solution. I also ask for  Divine Guidance.

K  is for Key. What keys to success can you leave for upcoming entrepreneurs and  leaders?

Be VERY organized. Even the little things count. When the day doesn’t go right–you can’t get a hold of anyone, the mail is slow, no one is returning  phone calls—organize your desk, your files, your to do list. Pay attention to  small details. Freshen your office. This shifts the energy. Do some  affirmations, take a walk in the garden. do martial arts, yoga. Do something completely opposite to create an energetic pendulum effect. Call someone up and  ask what you can do for them? Remember: Tomorrow is another day; Look at things  differently and find another way.

Visit Acharya  Sri Khadi Madama for more information