Who we are
Jesse and Sophie, the creators behind YOGI TIMES, are passionate about sharing knowledge, creativity, and inspiration within the emerging yoga lifestyle.
OUR STORY
About two decades ago, they conceived the idea of creating a space for like-minded individuals to come together and make yoga, holistic medicine, nutrition, and sustainability accessible to everyone long before these concepts became mainstream.
YOGI TIMES began as a modest printed newsletter called “YOGI TIMES Newsletter,” featuring 12 pages in 2 colors.
With the help of their talented art director, Kiko Tabuchi, this publication provided practical tips and concepts for leading a conscious lifestyle in a stylish and accessible way, setting it apart from the more esoteric publications of its time.
The founders of YOGI TIMES, inspired by their upbringing and creative backgrounds, were motivated to give back and inspire on a larger scale.
This endeavor allowed them to be more creative and responsive to the needs of their community while working multiple jobs to cover printing costs.
The initial success of their humble magazine prompted JC and Sophie to dedicate themselves fully to YOGI TIMES, expanding its reach.
In 2010, they transitioned from print to the sophisticated online platform they use today, evolving from a small newsletter into a multifaceted independent media group with 13 online city guides.
In addition to its online presence, YOGI TIMES also offers a stylish boutique, yogitimesboutique.com, and yogitimesuni.com, an online university with courses and free resources taught by world-class coaches, co-founded with partner Kimberley Hatherall.
This expansion has allowed their community and team to flourish.
While challenges and setbacks have marked their journey, JC and Sophie have embraced these experiences as opportunities for growth.
They’ve learned valuable lessons and have been privileged to connect with exceptionally talented and creative individuals.
One thing has remained constant throughout their journey: YOGI TIMES‘ mission is to empower people to reach their highest potential.
OUR CULTURE
As for the culture at YOGI TIMES, it fosters a playful, humble, and independent work environment that values work-life balance.
Team members are encouraged to explore their full potential, and the company places great importance on community involvement, inviting others to join their mission.
You can learn more about joining YOGI TIMES and their culture here.
OUR TEAM
Sophie Parienti
Sophie Parienti
Bringing people together seems to be an ethos for Sophie Parienti. After earning her BA in Art History at the University of Bordeaux, France, she pursued an interest in Media and Communication with a Public Relations Certificate at UCLA.
Since spending time in the states in the 90s, she has delved deeply into the world of holistic health and yoga philosophy.
Jesse Gabler
Jesse Gabler
Jean-Christophe Gabler, a native of France, embarked on a transformative journey when he relocated to Los Angeles in 1993. Initially pursuing a career in the entertainment industry, he unearthed his innate talents for both finance and creativity during his involvement in the development of YOGI TIMES.
The practice of yoga marked a pivotal juncture in his life, providing the clarity and purpose he had long sought. After a profound 10-day Vipassana meditation course, Jesse wholeheartedly embraced the publishing realm, driven by a fervent desire to share the joys of yoga, well-being, and sustainability with a global audience.
As the International Publisher and Co-founder of YOGI TIMES, Jesse adeptly oversees the YOGI TIMES Lifestyle Media Group, steering it towards future growth. Beyond his role as a publisher, Jesse is dedicated to his family and maintains a fervent commitment to his dual passions: tennis and yoga.
Tea Koevska
Tea Koevska
Tea Koevska is a Macedonian mother, married to a native of Skopje, North Macedonia, and is blessed with a one-year-old son named Leo.
She is an avid traveler who loves to explore new cultures and learn about the world.
She is also a dedicated yoga practitioner and believes in the power of personal growth and mindfulness. Tea’s positive attitude and enthusiasm for life make her a cherished friend and valued member of her community.
Blandine Gerber
Blandine Gerber
Blandine Gerber Fleury loves to write, share and inspire. She is an author, life support, and mother of four, living in Indonesia for 15 years.
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Deepak Chopra MD.
Deepak Chopra MD.
Born on October 22, 1946, in New Delhi, India, Deepak Chopra hails from a family of medical professionals. He obtained his medical degree from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, specializing in endocrinology and the mind-body connection.
In 1970, he moved to the United States, becoming board-certified in internal medicine and endocrinology by 1973. Chopra taught at esteemed institutions like Tufts University, Boston University, and Harvard University’s medical schools.
In the 1980s, a meeting with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi led him to blend medicine with holistic practices. Globally renowned as an integrative medicine pioneer, he authored over 90 books, including “Metahuman,” and gained recognition through The Oprah Winfrey Show.
His foundations and business ventures, such as the Chopra Foundation and Chopra Global’s sale for an estimated $20 million, illustrate his profound impact on health and wellness.
Baron Baptiste
Baron Baptiste
Baron Baptiste, born into a family of pioneering American yogis, embarked on his yoga odyssey at just twelve, initiating a lifelong quest for self-discovery and holistic wellness.
In the mid-nineties, he revolutionized yoga with Baptiste Power Vinyasa Yoga, an accessible, dynamic style bearing his name. Beyond the studio, Baron’s stint as a Peak Performance Specialist for the Philadelphia Eagles showcased yoga’s tangible impact on athleticism and resilience.
His influence transcended yoga, collaborating with celebrities like Helen Hunt and blending yoga with diverse realms.
Balancing his yoga studio in Cambridge, MA, with the vibrant Sundance Film Festival, Baron epitomizes yoga’s adaptability. A lifelong student, author, and global teacher, his legacy fuses traditional wisdom with modern pragmatism, and his transformative journey continues to inspire.
Brett Larkin
Brett Larkin
Brett Larkin is a digital yoga pioneer, merging ancient practices with modern technology through Uplifted Yoga. Beyond teaching poses, she empowers students to customize their yoga journey.
Her holistic health passion sparked her yoga path, leading her to instruct at top studios and collaborate with companies like Google and Pinterest.
Uplifted Yoga redefined yoga education by blending tradition with online accessibility, fostering a global community.
Personalization lies at the heart of her teaching, encouraging students to align yoga with their unique needs. With 400,000+ social media followers and millions of monthly YouTube viewers, Brett is an online wellness influencer. She shares insights on yoga, meditation, and personal growth, guiding individuals towards holistic wellness and personal empowerment.
Brett Larkin is a beacon of modern yoga and wellness, lighting the way for personal and spiritual growth, on and off the mat.
Wanda Badwal
Anna Getty
Anna Getty
Hailing from Ojai, California, the author’s formative years amidst the town’s natural allure and vibrant culture sparked a profound love for storytelling. With a degree in Literature and Creative Writing, she embarked on a promising writing career.
As a freelance writer, her compelling narrative voice found resonance with readers, garnering a loyal following.
Her literary repertoire includes novels and a collection of short stories, drawing inspiration from her experiences and Ojai’s cultural tapestry. Her articles, often exploring themes of identity and human connection, grace esteemed publications.
Renowned for her eloquent prose and intricate character development, she vividly captures Ojai’s essence.
Her accolades in fiction writing highlight her literary prowess. Committed to her community, she actively promotes literacy and the arts, conducting workshops and inspiring emerging writers.
Beyond writing, she revels in exploring Ojai’s natural beauty, photography, and travel, infusing her work with fresh inspiration.
Currently crafting her latest novel and a series of contemporary essays, her literary journey promises to continue captivating audiences.
Marylene Henry
Marylene Henry
Marylene Henry, a seasoned yoga instructor, brings a unique blend of expertise from her corporate background into her yoga practice.
Her extensive experience in events, operations, and strategy management enriches her holistic approach to yoga, which encompasses body systems, precise alignments, philosophical insights, and mindfulness techniques.
Corporate Insights and Yoga Synergy
With a diverse corporate career in global settings, Marylene comprehends the profound impact of lifestyle on both physical and mental well-being.
She seamlessly integrates these insights into her yoga teachings, helping individuals alleviate physical discomfort and find solace from psychological stress through yoga’s transformative power.
Tailored Wellness Solutions
Marylene’s yoga sessions are highly adaptable, tailored to the specific needs and goals of each individual. Her personalized approach ensures that clients receive the maximum benefits from their practice, making yoga a truly transformative journey for all.