If you've ever cried in the car after ballet class, questioned whether you started too late, or wondered why your pirouettes still aren't cooperating, this is your podcast. After Class is for adult ballet dancers — the ones balancing real life, careers, and ballet dreams. Each week, host and fellow dancer Hannah covers technique, artistry, mindset, and the honest conversations that don't always happen in the studio. Whether you're brand new to the barre or a seasoned bunhead, you belong here.
Ep. 123 - Creating a Pointe Plan You LOVE as an Adult Dancer, with Julie of Broche Ballet (pt 3)
You've conquered the basics en pointe.... So now what? This is the final episode in my three-part series on the adult pointe journey with Julie of Broche Ballet , who has coached hundreds of adult dancers (myself included) through their pointe journeys. In this episode, we talk about how to build a sustainable, realistic training plan around a busy adult life, why short frequent practice sessions are so effective, the recovery habits that will support your body for the long haul, how to work through the fear of learning new steps, and why play might be the single most important ingredient you're missing. If you've ever felt like you're stuck in a rut, wondering how to actually reach your goals, this is the episode for you. It's the perfect way to close out this series, and I think it's going to change how you think about your own pointe journey. 🩰 Disclaimer: This episode is NOT a substitute for an individual evaluation, so make sure you're approved by a qualified teacher and fitted by a professional before going on pointe. It's also not medical advice, so please consult a licensed medical professional about any injuries or pain. CONNECT WITH JULIE & BROCHE BALLET👇🏼 Instagram: @brocheballet Website: brocheballet.com Free Pointe Readiness Self-Assessment: https://app.brocheballetonline.com/pointe/self-assessment Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead Explore blog posts, merchandise & resources for adult ballet dancers like you at thebusybunhead.com Podcast produced by Mission Bridge Media. www.MissionBridgeMedia.com
Ep 122 - The Adult Pointe Plateau: Why You Feel Stuck (And How to Get Unstuck) with Julie of Broche Ballet (pt 2)
You've got your pointe shoes and you've survived the first few months, but now you're in that weird in-between phase: still clutching the barre but dreaming of center, wondering if what you're feeling is normal or if you should be further along by now. If that sounds familiar, this episode is for you. I'm back with Julie of Broche Ballet for part two of our three-part series on the adult pointe journey , and this episode digs into the messy middle: what those first few months in pointe shoes actually feel like, how to finally let go of the barre, and how to tell if a problem is your strength or your shoes. I also ask Julie how to know when a pair of pointe shoes is really dead, why she's an advocate for a dedicated pointe barre, and what "banana feet" versus "biscuit feet" means for getting over the box. If you've been feeling discouraged by lack of progress in pointe journey, you're not alone! But there is a way through it.... Ready to push past the plateau? Let's get into it. ☺️ EPISODE SPONSOR ✨ O'Mara Sprung Floors | A family-owned business building sprung floors for dancers for over 30 years. Featuring a Marley non-slip surface over a professionally engineered sprung floor with 70% shock absorption, they're designed to protect your body so you can dance safely from the comfort of home! Shop at sprungfloors.com | Use code AFTERCLASS10 for 10% off your ballet practice floor! CONNECT WITH JULIE & BROCHE BALLET👇🏼 Instagram: @brocheballet Website: brocheballet.com Free Pointe Readiness Self Assessment Disclaimer: This episode is NOT a substitute for an individual evaluation, so make sure you're approved by a qualified teacher and fitted by a professional before going on pointe. It's also not medical advice, so please consult a licensed medical professional about any injuries or pain. Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead Explore blog posts, merchandise & resources for adult ballet dancers like you at thebusybunhead.com Podcast produced by Mission Bridge Media. www.MissionBridgeMedia.com
Ep. 121 - Starting Pointe as an Adult? Here's What You Actually Need to Know, with Julie of Broche Ballet (pt 1)
For so many adult dancers, pointe is the dream, whether you're returning to it after years away or dreaming about it for the very first time. But how do you actually know if you're ready? And if your teacher says not yet, what does that actually mean? This is part one of a three part series on the entire adult pointe journey, and I'm joined by Julie of Broche Ballet , who has coached hundreds of adult dancers (myself included) through the process of going en pointe. We get into adult pointe readiness in detail: whether adults are even "allowed" to go on pointe, the four different types of adult dancers who approach pointe (you'll probably recognize yourself in one), the four indicators of pointe readiness, what's actually going on when a teacher says "not yet", why pointe might be safer than you think, and Julie's honest take on demi pointe shoes. If you've been quietly dreaming about pointe shoes for years, or you're already en pointe and want to understand your own journey better, you're going to LOVE this conversation with Julie. 🩰 Disclaimer: This episode is NOT a substitute for an individual evaluation, so make sure you're approved by a qualified teacher and fitted by a professional before going on pointe. It's also not medical advice, so please consult a licensed medical professional about any injuries or pain. Connect with Julie & Broche Ballet👇🏼 Instagram: @brocheballet Website: brocheballet.com Free Pointe Readiness Self-Assessment: https://app.brocheballetonline.com/pointe/self-assessment Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead Explore blog posts, merchandise & resources for adult ballet dancers like you at thebusybunhead.com Podcast produced by Mission Bridge Media. www.MissionBridgeMedia.com
Ep 120 - Ballet on a Budget: Practical Ways to Save Money as an Adult Dancer
Saving money on ballet doesn't have to mean cutting corners on your training, and that's exactly what this episode is about. Where I live, the cost of everything has gone up, and ballet is no exception. Classes are more expensive, dancewear is more expensive, and don't even get me started on pointe shoes. I'm sharing all my favorite ways to save money as an adult dancer, how to use YouTube strategically, how to get more studio classes for less money, maximize private private lessons, ways to save on dancewear, how to make your shoes and tights last longer, and how building a simple budget can make your ballet needs (and wants) less overwhelming and more attainable. If the cost of training has been stressing you out, this episode is for you! 💸 Buy & sell secondhand dancewear at Tutulist.com 💌 Sign up for my monthly all-things-adult-ballet newsletter at thebusybunhead.com Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead Explore blog posts, merchandise & resources for adult ballet dancers like you at thebusybunhead.com Podcast produced by Mission Bridge Media. www.MissionBridgeMedia.com
Ep. 119 - Acting in Ballet: How to Overcome Self-Consciousness & Embody a Character, with Chelsea Weidmann
You can have clean technique, beautiful lines, and perfect musicality and still leave an audience completely cold. The missing ingredient? Acting . And for most of us, it's the element of artistry we've spent the least amount of time developing. In this episode, I'm back with Chelsea Weidmann , The Geeky Ballerina, for the next installment in our ongoing series on the essential elements of artistry in ballet. Chelsea breaks down what acting in the context of ballet actually entails, why it's historically been neglected, and how to start developing this element of artistry, whether you're performing or just trying to bring more expressiveness to your class work! In this episode we cover: - How Chelsea defines acting in the context of ballet - The historical reason acting often gets left out of classical ballet training - The other layers of acting beyond the face: posture, gesture, weight placement, and more - Practical strategies for moving past self-consciousness - Tips for stepping into a character role - How to bring acting into your class work - What to do in the moment on stage to stay grounded and commit to the performance If you've ever felt like your dancing lacked depth or expressiveness (on stage or in the studio), this episode will give you tools to start exploring acting as an essential element of artistry. ✨ CONNECT WITH CHELSEA 👇🏼 Website & newsletter: www.geekyballerina.com Chelsea's Book | Artistry Inside Ballet Technique: https://amzn.to/3SUFjto (Amazon Affiliate link) EPISODE SPONSOR ✨ O'Mara Sprung Floors A family-owned business building sprung floors for dancers for over 30 years. Featuring a Marley non-slip surface over a professionally engineered sprung floor with 70% shock absorption, they're designed to protect your body so you can dance safely from the comfort of home! Shop at sprungfloors.com | Use code AFTERCLASS10 for 10% off your ballet practice floor! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead Explore blog posts, merchandise & resources for adult ballet dancers like you at thebusybunhead.com Podcast produced by Mission Bridge Media. www.MissionBridgeMedia.com
Ep. 118 - Making Time for Ballet When Your Life Is Already Full, with Rebecca Holden
If you've ever felt like ballet is the first thing to get dropped when life gets busy, this episode is for you. I'm joined by Rebecca Holden , a fellow adult dancer who is also a wife, a mom to a son with autism, and a full-time manager and someone who has figured out how to make ballet a consistent, guilt-free part of her life. We get into the real, stuff: how she protects her training days when everything else is competing for that time, how she deals with burnout, and how she navigates taking breaks. Rebecca is also someone who dances at the same studio as her son who participates in an inclusive movement program there, and that part of the conversation is so special. 🥹 In this episode: - The difference between balance and juggling and why it matters - How to plan your week so that class actually happens - Why lowering the barrier to show up is the key to consistency - How to protect your training time without guilt when you're a parent or caregiver - Communicating with your family so that your training feels supported - Why over-training can be just as much of a problem as under-training, and how to find your sustainable middle - The unexpected gift of dancing alongside your child If your life is full and ballet keeps getting pushed to the bottom of the list, Rebecca's perspective might be exactly what you need to hear. ☺️ CONNECT WITH REBECCA 👇🏼 Instagram: @rebeccavholden TikTok: @rebeccavholden Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead Explore blog posts, merchandise & resources for adult ballet dancers like you at thebusybunhead.com Podcast produced by Mission Bridge Media. www.MissionBridgeMedia.com
Ep. 117 - How to Prepare for an Adult Ballet Intensive: Everything You Need to Know
If you have a ballet intensive coming up (or you're thinking about doing one) this episode is your complete guide to showing up prepared, taking care of your body, and getting the absolute most out of the experience. I'm walking you through everything: what to do in the week before (including how much to train, and my best tips for rest, fueling and hydrating), how to pack strategically, choosing your footwear, and how to actually navigate the week itself — the social side, the logistics, the evening recovery, and the mindset stuff. Whether it's your first intensive or your tenth, there's something in here for you.🩷 🧳 Download your free packing checklist HERE so you don't forget anything! TOPICS COVERED: - How to think about your training in the week before (and why cramming doesn't work) - Sleep, hydration, and fueling strategies to arrive feeling your best - Outfit planning and exactly how many leotards and tights to pack - Recovery products you'll be glad you didn't leave at home - How to think strategically about your pointe shoes - How to be the friendly one (and why it matters more than you think) - Recovery tips for the week (including the hotel trash can ice bath trick) - Releasing the pressure to be perfect (and why that's actually when you learn the most) ✨EPISODE SPONSOR ORZA – Ballet Slippers Designed by a professional dancer, ORZA slippers feature patented shock-absorbing technology to help reduce fatigue, improve stamina, and prevent injuries. Shop at orzabrand.com and use code AFTERCLASS5 for $5 off your order! 🔗 OTHER PRODUCTS MENTIONED Ance Recovery Sneakers Mini foam roller (Amazon affiliate link) Electrolyte Packets (Amazon affiliate link) Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead Explore blog posts, merchandise & resources for adult ballet dancers like you at thebusybunhead.com Podcast produced by Mission Bridge Media. www.MissionBridgeMedia.com
Ep. 116 - Life-Changing Facts About YOUR Anatomy as an Adult Dancer, with Erica Centola
If you've ever received a correction in class and thought, "Why won't my body won't just do that.." this episode is for you. I'm back with Erica Centola , founder of Tournesol Dance and creator of The Ballet Body Blueprint , for a conversation that I genuinely wish I'd had at the very beginning of my ballet journey. We walk through the anatomy that actually determines what ballet looks and feels like in your unique body... Not a generic "ballerina body." YOUR body. We cover: - Foot shape: the difference between high arches and "flat" feet, what each type does well, and how to train smarter based on what you actually have - Leg shape: straight vs. knock-kneed vs. bow-legged, and how each of these affects your balance, turning, and overall line - Hip socket placement: how it affects turnout, what a healthy hip socket actually looks like, and why chasing flat turnout can be working against you - Torso length: the little-known factor that explains things like why some people are "natural turners" and others struggle to control their turns If you just keep hitting walls and experiencing the same frustrations, training harder probably isn't the answer. You might just need the facts of your anatomy so you can train smarter. Whether you're brand new to ballet or have been dancing for years, this conversation will change the way you see yourself in the studio. CONNECT WITH ERICA 👇🏼 The Ballet Body Blueprint: online.tournesoldance.com Instagram: @ericacentola , @tournesoldance and @rochesteradultballetcompany EPISODE SPONSOR ✨ O'MARA SPRUNG FLOORS A family-owned business building sprung floors for dancers for over 30 years. Their ballet practice floor features a Marley non-slip surface over a professionally engineered sprung floor with 70% shock absorption. Built to protect your body so you can keep dancing! Shop at sprungfloors.com Use code AFTERCLASS10 for 10% off your ballet practice floor! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead Explore blog posts, merchandise & resources for adult ballet dancers like you at thebusybunhead.com Podcast produced by Mission Bridge Media. www.MissionBridgeMedia.com
Ep. 115 - Understanding Musicality in Ballet and How to Develop it, with Chelsea Weidmann
Musicality is one of those qualities teachers ask for constantly, and yet almost never explain. "Be more musical. Feel the music. Let it move through you..." But what does that actually mean? In this episode, I'm back with Chelsea Weidmann , The Geeky Ballerina, as part of our ongoing series unpacking the elements of artistry she identified in her thesis on Artistry in Ballet. Today's topic: musicality — one of the most personal and most debated elements of all. In this episode we talk about whether musicality is something you're born with or something you can learn, why so many dancers can hear the music but struggle to translate it into their body (and why that's ok!) and Chelsea's clarifying framework for musicality (including elements like rhythm, tempo, dynamics, and more!) If you've ever been told to be more musical but had no idea where to start, this episode will give you a framework, a language, and some practical tools to actually get there. 🎶 CONNECT WITH CHELSEA 👇🏼 Website: www.geekyballerina.com Book: Artistry Inside Ballet Technique, Vol 1 (Amazon affiliate link) EPISODE SPONSOR ✨ ORZA - Ballet Slippers Designed by a professional dancer, ORZA slippers feature patented shock-absorbing technology to help reduce fatigue, improve stamina, and prevent injuries. Shop at orzabrand.com | Use code AFTERCLASS5 for $5 off your order! CATCH UP ON OUR ELEMENTS OF ARTISTRY SERIES BELOW: ELEMENT #1 BREATH ELEMENT #2 SOMATIC AWARENESS ELEMENT #3 LINE Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead Explore blog posts, merchandise & resources for adult ballet dancers like you at thebusybunhead.com Podcast produced by Mission Bridge Media. www.MissionBridgeMedia.com
Ep. 114 - Ballet Hacks Every Adult Dancer Should Know
In this episode, I'm sharing some of my favorite ballet hacks — the tips, tricks, and discoveries that have made my life as an adult dancer easier and more comfortable. Some I figured out on my own, some were passed along by teachers or fellow dancers, and all of them are things I actually do/use and swear by, like: - The nipple cover situation no one talks about (and the product that finally solved it for me) - Using toe spacers in your ballet slippers (NOT just for pointe shoes) to reduce bunion discomfort - The waistband modifications that will change how you feel in your tights - How to turn convertible tights into stirrup tights so you can wear the brands you actually love - A simple spray that fixes heel slippage in pointe shoe (plus a bonus tip that makes it even more effective) - A hack for healthier, happier hair (while you dance) PRODUCTS MENTIONED 🔗 Nipple Covers by Cakes (grippy version) Toe Spacers by Russian Pointe (size medium) Spray Rosin by Bloch Hair Mask by RCA Skincare (use code AFTERCLASS10 for 10% off your order!) EPISODE SPONSOR ✨ Frenchies Hairpins The official brand for ballerinas who love a good hair moment! Shop premium hairpins and new luxury scrunchies in real silk and luxurious velvet. https://frenchieshairpins.com | Code AFTERCLASS10 for 10% off! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead Explore blog posts, merchandise & resources for adult ballet dancers like you at thebusybunhead.com Podcast produced by Mission Bridge Media. www.MissionBridgeMedia.com
Ep. 113 - Hyperextended Legs in Ballet: What's Not Explained in Class... with Shane Wuerthner
If you have hyperextended knees, you've probably spent a lot of time in class feeling like your body is working against you. You get corrections like "straighten your legs" and no matter how hard you try, nothing seems to change. Closing in fifth without bending your knees feels impossible, your standing leg feels unstable, and nobody has ever actually explained why . In this episode, I'm joined by Shane Wuerthner, a former professional ballet dancer, who is now a ballet coach and the founder of Athletistry . And as someone with significant hypermobility in his own knees, Shane is not just talking theory here... He's lived it! We cover: What's actually happening in your body when you have hypermobile knees The proprioception piece, and why you might not be able to feel when your leg is actually straight Closing in fifth position: what's realistic, what's not, and how to find your version of it Stability in your standing leg and what your foot connection has to do with it Why cues like "pull up" and "engage your quads" often don't translate for hypermobile dancers How to work with your hypermobility and maintain a healthy mindset! If you've ever felt frustrated or discouraged by your hypermobility, this episode is for you. CONNECT WITH SHANE👇🏼 Instagram: @athletistry YouTube: @athletistryofficial Website: www.athletistry.au Workshops: www.athletistry.au/workshops EPISODE SPONSOR ✨ ORZA - Ballet Slippers Designed by a professional dancer, ORZA slippers feature patented shock-absorbing technology to help reduce fatigue, improve stamina, and prevent injuries. Shop at orzabrand.com | Use code AFTERCLASS5 for $5 off your order! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead Explore blog posts, merchandise & resources for adult ballet dancers like you at thebusybunhead.com Podcast produced by Mission Bridge Media. www.MissionBridgeMedia.com
Ep. 112 - Your Adult Ballet Photoshoot Guide with Professional Photographer Katie Ging 📷
For a lot of adult dancers, a professional photoshoot feels exciting and overwhelming in equal measure. You want beautiful images that capture how far you've come. But knowing how to actually prepare and show up confidently in front of the camera? That part can feel pretty daunting. I sat down with professional dance photographer Katie Ging, who has photographed dancers of every level and has a real gift for making everyone look and feel their absolute best. We talk about how to choose the right photographer, what to wear (including whether you need to be flexible to get good photos — spoiler: you don't), and how to prep your body and mind before your shoot. We also get into the most common posing mistakes and how to work around them, why arabesques are basically everyone's nemesis on camera, the simple poses that photograph beautifully every time, and how to keep your facial expression relaxed and natural even when you're thinking about 25 different things (i.e. turnout more, pointe your feet, relax your shoulders, engage your core, lift your elbows, soften your hands, and oh yeah.... SMILE!) 😆 But fear not, whether you're getting your photos taken at a retreat or booking your own session, this conversation will leave you feeling prepared and ready to shine! 📸 👇🏼 CONNECT WITH KATIE: Website: www.katiegingphotography.com Instagram: @katiegingphotography ✨ EPISODE SPONSOR: Frenchies Hairpins The official brand for ballerinas who love a good hair moment! Shop premium hairpins and new luxury scrunchies in real silk and luxurious velvet. https://frenchieshairpins.com | Code AFTERCLASS10 for 10% off! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead Explore blog posts, merchandise & resources for adult ballet dancers like you at thebusybunhead.com Podcast produced by Mission Bridge Media. www.MissionBridgeMedia.com
Ep. 111 - Unlock Your Best Ballet LINES (At Any Level!) with Chelsea Weidmann
You know it when you see it. That effortless, magnetic quality professional dancers have, the way their bodies seem to cut through space with clarity and length. But do you know what you're actually looking at? In this episode, we're back with Chelsea Weidmann, aka The Geeky Ballerina , as part of our ongoing series unpacking the elements of artistry as she identified and explored them in her thesis on artistry in ballet. Today's topic: LINE. One of the most foundational and most misunderstood elements of all. In this episode we cover: - What line actually is (and what it's NOT) - The different categories of line in ballet - How your body's planes of action inform and improve your technique - How to shape the lines between your movements - How to create the illusion of length like a professional - How to start training your lines no matter your current level If you've ever watched yourself in the mirror and known something was off but couldn't name it, this episode will give you the tools to find your best lines and start enhancing your artistry. ☺️ CONNECT WITH CHELSEA 👇🏼 Website: www.geekyballerina.com Artistry Inside Ballet Technique, Vol 1 (Amazon affiliate link) EPISODE SPONSOR ✨ ORZA - Ballet Slippers Designed by a professional dancer, ORZA slippers feature patented shock-absorbing technology to help reduce fatigue, improve stamina, and prevent injuries. Shop at orzabrand.com | Use code AFTERCLASS5 for $5 off your order! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead Explore blog posts, merchandise & resources for adult ballet dancers like you at thebusybunhead.com Podcast produced by Mission Bridge Media. www.MissionBridgeMedia.com
Ep. 110 - Find the Best Ballet Slippers for YOUR Feet: What to Know & How to Choose
If you've ever walked into a dance store and been completely overwhelmed ( Canvas or leather? Split sole or full sole? What size? What width? Ahhhh!!) fret no more! This episode is for you.☺️ In this episode, I'm diving deep into everything you need to know about buying ballet slippers as an adult dancer. Whether you're brand new or you've been dancing for years and still haven't found your perfect shoe, this one covers it all. In this episode: - Canvas vs. leather: the key differences and when each makes sense - Split sole vs. full sole: what teachers recommend and why it matters for your level - How to choose the right color for a long leg line - The truth about ballet slipper sizing (hint: it is NOT your street shoe size) - How to determine your width and what to look for in a proper fit - Recommendations by foot type: narrow, wide, high arch, flat feet, etc. - My personal favorites! 👟 BRANDS MENTIONED + LINKS: So Dança Bliss Capezio Hanami Bloch Performa Gaynor Minden Liberty ORZA Pro 2.0 | Use code AFTERCLASS5 for $5 off your order! *A note on ORZA: This episode was created before Orza became a sponsor. My recommendation of the Pro 2.0 is entirely my own. I loved them so much that I reached out to ask if they'd like to partner with the show. The discount code is a perk that came after — the obsession came first. 😄 ✨ EPISODE SPONSOR: Frenchies Hairpins The official brand for ballerinas who love a good hair moment! Shop premium hairpins and new luxury scrunchies in real silk and luxurious velvet. https://frenchieshairpins.com | Code AFTERCLASS10 for 10% off! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead Explore blog posts, merchandise & resources for adult ballet dancers like you at thebusybunhead.com Podcast produced by Mission Bridge Media. www.MissionBridgeMedia.com
Ep. 109 - No Studio, No Blueprint, No Problem: Bringing Ballet to Pakistan, with Lauren Woodbury
What does it take to bring ballet to a place where it doesn't exist yet? Today's guest, Lauren, found herself living in Islamabad, Pakistan — a city of over a million people with no ballet studio — and decided to build one herself. In this episode, Lauren shares how a love story brought her from Fargo, North Dakota to the capital of Pakistan, and how her lifelong connection to ballet eventually led her to found the Islamabad School of Ballet . We talk about how she got started teaching out of a converted storage room, the seminar she put together to introduce ballet to an unfamiliar audience (and the overwhelming response she didn't expect), the logistical challenges of building a school without the infrastructure most of us take for granted, and how she navigated it all with creativity, persistence, and a willingness to start imperfectly. We also talk about her school's very first performance — a 30-minute adaptation of Swan Lake — the moment her students stepped onstage, and the way ballet is transforming confidence in dancers who are discovering it for the very first time. In this episode, we cover: Her non-linear ballet journey: from childhood classes in North Dakota to returning as an adult The spark that led her to start the Islamabad School of Ballet How she introduced ballet in a community where it doesn't really exist The logistical challenges of building a studio without existing infrastructure How word of mouth and Instagram grew the school to 45–50 students in less than a year! The school's first performance: a 30-minute adaptation of Swan Lake How ballet is impacting students who are discovering it for the first time How she adapted classical ballets to suit her students What she would tell anyone who wants to start something new but is held back by imposter syndrome How she's giving back through monthly donations to children's organizations in Pakistan 👉🏼 Connect with Lauren: @islamabadschoolofballet ✨ This Episode is Sponsored By: ORZA - Ballet Slippers Designed by a professional dancer, ORZA slippers feature patented shock-absorbing technology to help reduce fatigue, improve stamina, and prevent injuries. Shop at orzabrand.com Use code AFTERCLASS5 for $5 off your order! LABL Active Hosts of the 2026 Adult Ballet Retreat. Come dance with us in Seattle from June 21–26! Learn more here: lablactive.com Use code AFTERCLASS100 for $100 off your registration! **The deadline to register is April 15th. Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead Explore blog posts, merchandise & resources for adult ballet dancers like you at thebusybunhead.com Podcast produced by Mission Bridge Media. www.MissionBridgeMedia.com
Ep. 108 - Ballet Makeup for Class AND Stage: Everything Adult Dancers Need to Know, with Suzanne Jolie
Makeup in ballet can feel a bit complicated as an adult dancer. Should you wear makeup to class at all? If you do, what actually works when you're sweating through a full barre? And when it comes to performing, what does it actually take to make your face read under bright stage lights and from a distance? In this episode, I'm joined by Suzanne Jolie , my ballet teacher and one half of the creative duo behind Models Doing Ballet, to demystify ballet makeup for both class and the stage. Suzanne brings years of experience as a dancer, teacher, and theater professional, and she holds nothing back. We cover class makeup first: the best lightweight formulas for sweaty studio conditions, how to even out redness or breakouts without looking cakey, and Suzanne's go-to product recommendations. Then we dive into stage makeup : why it needs to be so much heavier than everyday makeup, the non-negotiables for a classic ballet stage look, the iconic ballerina eye technique, and Suzanne's secret weapon for making it all pop (hint: white "grease" pencil) 😉 💄Grab your Complete Stage Make Up Guide here: https://canva.link/zsrxuv9zy6j3x6a In this episode, we cover: - Is it normal to wear makeup to ballet class? - The best class-friendly product swaps for face, lips, and eyes - How to even out redness and breakouts without heavy coverage - The non-negotiables for classic ballet stage makeup - False lashes 101: how to fit, trim, apply, and reuse them - How to scale your look for studio showcases vs. full theater productions - How to remove stage makeup without wrecking your skin - Why you should always practice your stage makeup before the big day Whether you're heading to your first ballet class or stepping onto a stage for the very first time, this episode will leave you feeling prepared and confident! 👉🏼 Connect with Suzanne: Instagram (personal): @suzannejolie Instagram (Models Doing Ballet): @modelsdoingballet Podcast: @whodithistoher_podcast ✨ This Episode is Sponsored By: LABL Active Hosts of the 2026 Adult Ballet Retreat. Come dance with us in Seattle from June 21–26! Learn more here: lablactive.com Use code AFTERCLASS100 for $100 off your registration! The deadline to register is April 15th. Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead Explore blog posts, merchandise & resources for adult ballet dancers like you at thebusybunhead.com Podcast produced by Mission Bridge Media. www.MissionBridgeMedia.com
Ep. 107 - Somatic Awareness: How to Connect with Your Body and Dance with More Artistry, with Chelsea Weidmann
In ballet, we spend a lot of time thinking about what our dancing looks like, our lines, our placement, what we see in the mirror. But artistry isn't just visual. It's also deeply connected to what we're actually feeling and sensing inside our bodies while we move. This episode is part of an ongoing series with Chelsea Weidmann, also known as The Geeky Ballerina , where we unpack the nine specific elements of artistry that Chelsea identified and explored in her thesis, and later her book, on artistry in ballet. In today's conversation, we're diving into somatic awareness : what it actually is, why it's a critical element of artistry, and how adult dancers can start developing it right away. Chelsea walks us through her three-step process for somatic awareness, noticing what's happening in your body, making meaning of it, and using that awareness to make decisions, and why adults are actually better positioned to develop it than younger dancers. We also get into the real impact the mirror has on our ability to tune inward, how to work with (or around) it, and the most common places adult dancers hold tension without even realizing it. In this episode, we cover: What somatic awareness is and why it's one of the nine elements of artistry in ballet Why the technique should serve YOU, not the other way around Chelsea's three-step process: notice, make meaning, make a decision How somatic awareness develops over time (and why adult dancers aren't behind) The mirror's impact on body awareness and practical ways to reduce over-dependence on it Where adult dancers most commonly hold tension (shoulders and hip flexors, sound familiar?) How to release habitual tension you might not even know you're carrying Simple exercises and in-class cues to start building somatic awareness today Whether you're a beginner just learning to feel your body in space, or an experienced dancer trying to move with more intention and artistry, this conversation will give you a completely new lens through which to experience your training. 👉🏼 Connect with Chelsea: Website: geekyballerina.com Instagram: @thegeekyballerina Chelsea's book: Artistry Inside Ballet Technique, vol. 1 (Amazon affiliate link) ✨ This Episode is Sponsored By: LABL Active Hosts of the 2026 Adult Ballet Retreat. Come dance with us in Seattle from June 21–26! Learn more here: lablactive.com Use code AFTERCLASS100 for $100 off your registration! The deadline to register is April 15th. Frenchies Hairpins Velvet-coated hair pins for ballet buns and French twists that don't budge! Shop here: frenchieshairpins.com Use code AFTERCLASS10 for 10% off your order! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead Explore blog posts, merchandise & resources for adult ballet dancers like you at thebusybunhead.com Podcast produced by Mission Bridge Media. www.MissionBridgeMedia.com
Ep. 106 - Perfectionism Is Sabotaging Your Ballet Training — Here’s What to Do About It, with Kirsten Kemp
If you’ve ever walked out of ballet class replaying every mistake in your head — the turn you fell out of, the combination you messed up, the step that just won’t click — you’re not alone... As adult dancers, we often hold ourselves to incredibly high standards. And while that drive can be a powerful motivator, it can also quietly take the joy out of dancing, and even sabotage our progress. In this episode, I’m joined by Kirsten Kemp, a high-performance mindset coach who works specifically with dancers, to talk about how perfectionism shows up in ballet training and what to do instead. We talk about why perfectionism can derail your class experience, what’s happening in your brain when you spiral after messing up, and simple tools you can use in the moment to reset and stay engaged. Kirsten also shares her perspective on “mentally budgeting” for mistakes, how to set realistic expectations without lowering your standards, and how to stay motivated even during seasons of slow progress. If you’re someone who cares deeply about improving but often find yourself frustrated, discouraged, or defeated, this episode is your road map to renewed confidence and joy! 👉🏼 Connect with Kirsten: Website: kirstenkemp.com Instagram: @kirsten_theconfidentdancer ✨ This Episode is Sponsored By: Apolla Performance: Compression socks designed for support, recovery, and injury prevention for dancers. Use code AFTERCLASS10 for 10% off your first pair until March 31st. Shop here: apollaperformance.com LABL Active Hosts of the 2026 Adult Ballet Retreat. Come dance with us in Seattle from June 21–26! The deadline to register is April 15th. Learn more here: lablactive.com Use code: AFTERCLASS100 for $100 off your registration! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead Explore blog posts, merchandise & resources for adult ballet dancers like you at thebusybunhead.com Podcast produced by Mission Bridge Media. www.MissionBridgeMedia.com
Ep. 105 - Why Does Ballet Feel Harder Some Weeks? Supporting Your Cycle as a Female Dancer with Jess Spinner
Many adult dancers have experienced walking into class one day feeling strong and energized, and another day feeling completely depleted... even though NOTHING about their training has changed! For female dancers, those fluctuations can often be connected to something that’s rarely discussed in the ballet world: how our bodies shift throughout the menstrual cycle. In this episode, I’m joined by Jess — dancer, nutrition coach, and founder of The Whole Dancer — to talk about how women can fuel their training in a way that supports both performance and hormonal health. We discuss why understanding your cycle matters if you’re training regularly, how our nutritional needs and cravings can shift throughout the month, and how to recognize the signs that you might be under-fueling. Jess also shares what a well-balanced day of eating might look like for adult dancers who train after a full workday, as well as her perspective on supplements and how to support your body during lower-energy weeks. If you’ve ever wondered why your energy in class seems to fluctuate — or how to better support your body as a female dancer — this conversation offers a practical and empowering place to start. Connect with Jess 👇🏼 Check out her blog post Nine Signs You're Not Eating Enough Email: jess@thewholedancer.com Website: www.thewholedancer.com Instagram: @thewholedancer ✨ This Episode is Sponsored By: Apolla Performance Compression socks designed for support, recovery, and injury prevention for dancers. Use code AFTERCLASS10 for 10% off your first pair until March 31st. Shop here: apollaperformance.com LABL Active Hosts of the 2026 Adult Ballet Retreat. Come dance with us in Seattle from June 21–26 ! The deadline to register is April 15th . Learn more here: lablactive.com Use code: AFTERCLASS100 for $100 off your registration! March 15th: Half-day ticket options open! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead Explore blog posts, merchandise & resources for adult ballet dancers like you at thebusybunhead.com Podcast produced by Mission Bridge Media. www.MissionBridgeMedia.com
Ep. 104 - Why Are My Pirouettes STILL So Unstable? How to Get Strong & Stable Pirouettes with Allie Christensen
After months (or maybe even years) of practice, do your pirouettes still feel inconsistent, shaky, or unstable? In this episode, I’m joined by Allie Christensen , founder of Dancer Strong, to break down what actually makes a pirouette successful, and why adult dancers often struggle with turns even after years of training. Allie explains the most common reasons dancers wobble or fall out of pirouettes, how to build strength in the standing leg, and what cues are helpful to think about while turning. We also talk through a realistic progression for going from messy singles to clean singles (and eventually multiples) along with practical exercises adult dancers can start using right away to improve stability and control. If pirouettes have ever left you feeling frustrated or defeated after class, this episode will help you understand what’s really going on and how to start building stronger, more stable turns from the ground up. Check out Allie's favorite pirouette drill here . Connect with Allie 👇🏼 Website: dancerstrongprograms.com Instagram: @alignfitnessbyallie ✨ This Episode is Sponsored By: Jule Dancewear Beautiful, thoughtfully designed dancewear that supports and celebrates adult ballet bodies. Use code JULEBUNHEAD15 for 15% off your order. Shop here: juledancewear.com LABL Active Hosts of the 2026 Adult Ballet Retreat. Come dance with us in Seattle from June 21–26! The deadline to register is April 15th . Learn more here: lablactive.com Use code: AFTERCLASS100 for $100 off your registration! March 15th: Half-day ticket options open! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead Explore blog posts, merchandise & resources for adult ballet dancers like you at thebusybunhead.com Podcast produced by Mission Bridge Media. www.MissionBridgeMedia.com
