Explore every episode of the podcast After Class: The Adult Ballet Podcast
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ep. 28 - Life Lessons from Ballet | 26 Aug 2024 | 00:15:54 | |
As we train our bodies and strive to reach our goals in the studio, we're constantly learning and growing - not only as dancers, but as people. In this episode, we're sharing some of the unique life lessons taught to us by ballet. Grab a cup of coffee, and join us for a vulnerable and heartfelt chat. ♥ Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 27 - Our Favorite & LEAST Favorite Ballet Steps | 19 Aug 2024 | 00:18:22 | |
I think we all have certain steps that make our hearts sing and others that... well... not so much. In this episode we're spilling the tea on our favorite and least favorite ballet steps. Tune in for a light-hearted conversation that only a ballet-lover would understand. ◡̈ (And let us know if you agree or disagree with our choices over on social media!) Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 18 - Adult Ballet Intensives: Answering Your Questions! | 17 Jun 2024 | 00:22:27 | |
In this episode we're joined by special guest, Stacy Santos, to answer all your burning questions about adult ballet intensives... Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 17 - Showing Up for Yourself - Interview with Adult Ballerina Maggie Watson | 10 Jun 2024 | 00:28:40 | |
In this episode, we're joined by a very special guest and member of the Ballet for All community, Maggie Watson! As a wife and mother of two with a full-time job, she shares her thoughts on the power of consistency and showing up for yourself in your ballet training, and the strategies that help her continually improve. We also talk about our shared love of ballet fashion and geek out on Baryshnikov (because #IYKYK). ◡̈ Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 16 - Our Current Ballet Favorites! | 03 Jun 2024 | 00:17:29 | |
There are some products that are just too good not to share... Which is why we're bringing you an entire episode about our current ballet favorites! So settle in for some girl talk, and be sure to share YOUR personal favorites with us over on Instagram @ballet_for_all ◡̈ Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 15 - How to Create an Effective Warm Up Routine | 27 May 2024 | 00:19:39 | |
As adults, warming up is especially critical to staying safe & injury-free while we dance. But crafting a routine that is both effective and realistic can feel overwhelming with so many exercises and stretches to choose from. If you need a little guidance in creating your go-to warm up routine, this episode is for you! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 14 - The BEST Goals for Beginner Ballerinas | 20 May 2024 | 00:19:47 | |
There's always a million things to work on in ballet... But what are the BEST goals to have as a beginner dancer? It's probably not what you think! (Brace yourself, unpopular opinion incoming...) If you want to improve quickly and see results, there are a couple goals you NEED to chase. Tune in to learn how to narrow your focus and set the goals that will lead you to success! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 13 - How to Receive & Apply Your Corrections in Ballet Class | 13 May 2024 | 00:17:11 | |
It can be hard to receive corrections in ballet class, especially in front of a lot of people! But there are some simple things you can do to more easily receive corrections and (most importantly) actually APPLY them to accelerate your improvement. Whether in-person or online, corrections are essential to the learning process, so let's talk about how to get the MOST out of them! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 12 - How to Get the MOST out of YouTube Ballet Classes | 06 May 2024 | 00:13:16 | |
YouTube has become an incredible resource for ballet lovers. From barre classes to variation tutorials, you can find just about anything with a few clicks. But can pre-recorded classes actually translate to effective training? They can if you know how to use them! By utilizing some simple strategies, you can make YouTube classes your secret weapon for ballet success... Listen to this episode and find out how! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 11 - Recovery Tips to Help Your Body Feel It's Best! | 29 Apr 2024 | 00:23:03 | |
Giving our best in ballet class doesn't stop when we leave the studio. Recovery practices are CRITICAL to staying healthy & safe as we train - especially as adult dancers! In this episode we share some of our favorite methods to help your body repair and recover from the demands of ballet. And don't forget you can get 10% off our favorite anti-inflammatory cream by RCA Skincare using the code AFTERCLASS10 when you shop here. Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 10 - Training & Performing in New York City - Interview with Adult Ballerina Stacy Santos (pt 2) | 22 Apr 2024 | 00:25:39 | |
Stacy Santos is an inspirational adult ballerina whose story proves that "it's never too late" to follow your dreams. As a mother, nurse, veteran and passionate dancer, she holds many roles with both grace & grit. We are so excited to have Stacy on the podcast as she shares her journey back to the barre (in part one), and now onto the stage. We know you'll be as inspired by her as we are. ♥ Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 9 - "It's Never Too Late" - Interview with Adult Ballerina Stacy Santos (pt 1) | 15 Apr 2024 | 00:24:31 | |
Stacy Santos is an inspirational adult ballerina whose story proves that "it's never too late" to follow your dreams. As a mother, nurse, veteran and passionate dancer, she holds many roles with both grace & grit. We are so excited to have Stacy on the podcast as she shares her journey back to the barre, and eventually onto the stage (coming in part 2!). We know you'll be as inspired by her as we are. ◡̈ Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 26 - Starting Pointe as an Adult: Answering YOUR Questions! | 12 Aug 2024 | 00:23:47 | |
You asked and now we're answering! Tune in as we dive into questions like "How much training should I have before starting pointe?" and "Is it possible to go en pointe if you're plus size?" This is an episode you don't want to miss if you're considering pointe as an adult dancer! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 8 - What To Do When You're Struggling in Ballet Class | 08 Apr 2024 | 00:22:10 | |
No matter how long you've been dancing, we all struggle to keep up in class sometimes. Whether it's a particularly brutal adagio or an extra quick petit allegro, there are some simple things you can do stay motivated and get the most out of every class... Tune in to find out how! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 7 - Ballet Slippers 101 | 01 Apr 2024 | 00:20:16 | |
If you've ever found yourself in the middle of the shoe aisle with no clue where to begin... We've got you! From canvas to leather, split sole to full sole, in this episode we cover all the basics of ballet slippers so you can find your perfect fit. Links below to some of our personal favorites! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 6 - 7 More "Rules" of Ballet Etiquette You NEED to Know (pt 2) | 25 Mar 2024 | 00:22:47 | |
Welcome back to part 2 of the do's and don't's of ballet! Entering the world of ballet can feel daunting as an adult beginner. There are so many unspoken "rules" and things that you're expected to just know... But how can you know if nobody tells you? We're here to help! In this episode, we share some of the most common "rules" of the ballet world so you can enter the classroom with confidence. Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 5 - 8 "Rules" of Ballet Etiquette You NEED to Know (pt 1) | 18 Mar 2024 | 00:24:02 | |
Entering the world of ballet can feel daunting and mysterious as an adult. There are so many unspoken "rules" that you're expected to just know... But how can you know if nobody tells you? Don't worry - we're here to help! In this episode, we share some of the most common "do's" and "don'ts" of the ballet world so you can enter the classroom with confidence. Happy listening! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 4 - What to Wear to Ballet (And Why It Matters!) | 11 Mar 2024 | 00:22:53 | |
The world of ballet clothes can be really overwhelming with so many brands & styles to choose from. If you want to know what you actually need to get started, this episode is for you! We have some simple tips and suggestions that will help you look and feel your ballet best. ◡̈ Let's get into it! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 3 - Online Ballet Classes: Set Up for Success! | 04 Mar 2024 | 00:19:22 | |
Do you want to take online ballet classes, but aren't sure how to set up your space? In this episode we share what you need to know to have a great online class. From where to set your camera to choosing the right height for your barre (even if it's just a chair or your kitchen counter), after listening to this episode you'll be able to jump into your online classes with confidence and the best possible set up! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 2 - Rediscovering Ballet as an Adult - Interview with Hannah Jennings | 26 Feb 2024 | 00:24:17 | |
On today's episode we're interviewing your co-host, Hannah, and hearing about her personal journey to adult ballet and how she discovered her love of salsa dancing along the way... Let's get into it! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 1 - A Cuban Ballerina's Journey - Interview with Yelena Franceda | 19 Feb 2024 | 00:24:43 | |
Welcome to the first episode of After Class! To kick off the podcast, we're interviewing your co-host, Yelena! A passionate ballerina who trained at the Cuban Academy of Dance, holds a bachelor's degree from the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) and founded the online community and YouTube channel Ballet for All. Her dance journey is both unique and inspiring, so let's get right into it! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 25 - Eating for Recovery After Ballet Class - Q&A with Registered Dietitian, Tveen Verano (pt 2) | 05 Aug 2024 | 00:21:23 | |
When it comes to nutrition, the amount of conflicting advice can be totally overwhelming. If you're looking for clear & practical information on fueling your body as an adult dancer, we've got you! We're joined again this week by Registered Dietitian Tveen Verano for part 2 of our Q&A all about fueling our bodies for ballet. (Make sure you catch part 1 if you missed it!) Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 24 - How to Properly Fuel for Ballet - Q&A with Registered Dietitian, Tveen Verano (pt 1) | 29 Jul 2024 | 00:22:39 | |
When it comes to nutrition advice, the amount of conflicting information out there can be totally overwhelming. If you're looking for clear, practical and scientifically-backed information on fueling your body as an adult dancer, look no further! We are so excited to have Registered Dietitian Tveen Verano join us to share her professional advice on how to nourish ourselves to support the demands of ballerina-life. Let's get into it! ◡̈ Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 23 - What I Wish I Knew Before Starting Ballet | 22 Jul 2024 | 00:17:35 | |
Starting ballet as an adult is no small thing! It can feel overwhelming and confusing diving into this world filled with French words, unspoken rules and the quest for perfection.... We get it! So in this episode we're sharing what we wish we knew before we started ballet. We hope it encourages you to be kind to yourself and have faith in your unique ballet journey. ◡̈ Grab a coffee and let's chat! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 22 - The Cuban National Ballet School: What's It Really Like? | 15 Jul 2024 | 00:29:26 | |
In this episode Yelena gives us a glimpse into the Cuban National Ballet School - one of the most elite ballet schools in the world. She spent nearly 4 years studying there and is giving us all the dish on what it's like to train in this world-renowned institution. What was the audition process like? What's a typical day in the life of a student? If you're a fellow ballet nerd, you don't want to miss this episode. ◡̈ Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 21 - Online Ballet Classes: Are They Worth It? | 08 Jul 2024 | 00:16:07 | |
Have you ever wondered if online ballet classes are really an effective way to learn? If so, this episode is for you! While online classes definitely do have a couple drawbacks, they also have a ton of benefits for adult dancers in particular. Let's talk about it! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 20 - The Fundamentals of Ballet Turns | 01 Jul 2024 | 00:26:35 | |
Turns are generally one of the trickier things to master as an adult ballet dancer. But with the right techniques and lots of practice, you can conquer any turns that come your way in class. ◡̈ From pirouettes to soutenus to chaines, knowing the fundamentals and applying them consistently will create the foundation you need for beautiful turns. So let's talk about them! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 19 - What to Pack for Your Adult Ballet Intensive! | 24 Jun 2024 | 00:26:50 | |
Join us for a deep dive into packing for your Adult Ballet Intensive. This was a requested topic over on social media, and for good reason! There's a lot of items that you'll want to make sure you bring, and some of them aren't so obvious... But don't worry, from dancewear, to recovery tools, to snacks, we've got you covered. (And don't forget to listen to last week's episode answering all your questions about the adult intensive experience.) Let's get into it! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 30 - Dancing After Time Off: Tips for Coming Back Strong! | 09 Sep 2024 | 00:21:15 | |
Getting back into ballet classes after the summer holiday (or any vacation) can feel a bit daunting... But with the right mindset and some practical tips, you can make the transition from the beach to the barre without stress. So let's talk about how you can return to the studio with an empowered mindset, a refreshed body and renewed motivation for the coming season! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 29 - The ONE Thing Adult Dancers Need to Succeed | 02 Sep 2024 | 00:17:40 | |
There is only ONE thing you absolutely must have in order to dance ballet as an adult... Do you know what it is? Join us as we talk about the most important factor in pursuing your goals and fulfilling your dreams! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 31 - Pointe Training for Adults: Level Up Your Mental Game! | 16 Sep 2024 | 00:17:51 | |
Training en pointe is just as much a mental challenge as it is a physical one - just ask any adult dancer! From the fear of getting injured to the self-doubt that creeps up on us, there are so many factors that can hinder your mental game. In this episode, we're giving you the best tips to upgrade your mindset and take your pointe work to the next level. Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 36 - Using the Ballet Barre Correctly: How to Do It and Why It Matters! | 21 Oct 2024 | 00:19:53 | |
The barre is an absolutely essential element of ballet training. But are you using it correctly? In this episode, we identify the most common errors so you can avoid them, AND tell you exactly how to use the barre like a seasoned pro. Barre work can make or break your training, so don't miss this one! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 35 - The Scientific Secret to Staying MOTIVATED in Your Ballet Training | 14 Oct 2024 | 00:16:04 | |
Are you currently in a slump with your ballet training, feeling like you've plateaued and aren't seeing progress anymore? It happens to all of us! But by applying this simple concept (courtesy of the life-changing book Atomic Habits) you can transform your training strategy and reignite the motivation you've been missing... It's science! ◡̈ Let's talk about it... Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 34 - Save Money on Your Ballet Training with These Tips! | 07 Oct 2024 | 00:21:57 | |
Let's be honest... ballet is NOT cheap! And as adult dancers ourselves, we certainly get it. That's why we're sharing all of our best tips & tricks for saving money on classes, private training, dance wear and more in this episode. If you're a busy ballerina on a budget, you don't want to miss this one... Let's get into it! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 33 - Everything I Packed for an Adult Ballet Intensive: What You Need & What You Don't | 30 Sep 2024 | 00:21:04 | |
We're back with part two recapping Hannah's trip to an Adult Ballet Intensive. This episode is all about what you need for a successful trip based on our personal packing successes and failures... Get ready for some ridiculous personal anecdotes and over-sharing.... #yourewelcome. ◡̈ Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 32 - Attending an Adult Ballet Intensive: What It's Really Like! | 23 Sep 2024 | 00:18:58 | |
Have you ever wondered what it's like to attend an adult ballet intensive? Well, Hannah recently returned from the Amy Novinski Adult Ballet Intensive in California, and in this week's episode she's answering questions like: What was the daily schedule? What were the classes like? What aspect was most challenging? So if you've ever been curious about this particular intensive (or adult ballet intensives in general) find a cozy spot and grab a cup of coffee, because we're getting into all of it here! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 37 - Private Ballet Lessons: How to Get the MOST Out of Them! | 28 Oct 2024 | 00:21:25 | |
For most of us, private ballet lessons are a luxury. Which is why it's so important to maximize every single one! In this episode, we're giving you practical tips to utilize before, during & after your private lessons that will ensure you get the most bang for your hard-earned bucks. ◡̈ Let's get into it! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 38 - Achieve a Beautiful Arabesque at ANY Level! | 04 Nov 2024 | 00:21:53 | |
Are you struggling to find your picture-perfect arabesque line? Contrary to popular belief (thank you, social media) you DON'T need to have the flexibility of an Olympic gymnast to achieve this iconic ballet position. In this episode, we break down how YOU can get a lovely and stable arabesque, regardless of your flexibility or level of experience. Let's get into it! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 39 - The Nutcracker Chronicles - Interview with Ballerina & Author Janine Kovac | 11 Nov 2024 | 00:48:19 | |
In this episode we're joined by Janine Kovac, a former professional ballerina and author of The Nutcracker Chronicles. We talk all about her book - a beautifully honest memoir of her life as a dancer - and the experiences and lessons she's gleaned from a lifetime spent in the ballet world. From learning to listen to her body to embracing joy in the studio environment, Janine shares her most poignant insights with us. It's a conversation for all ballet nerds, so grab your coffee & join us! ◡̈ Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 40 - Ballet Warm Up's: What They Are & Why We Love Them! | 18 Nov 2024 | 00:15:42 | |
Warm muscles are crucial for a safe and productive ballet class. That's why we're diving into the wide world of warm-up gear in this episode! From legwarmers to sauna suits, we talk about all the options, why they work, and what our personal favorites are. Grab a cup of coffee and let's get into it! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 42 - The Ultimate Ballerina Christmas List: Gifts Any Dancer Will Love! | 09 Dec 2024 | 00:23:06 | |
Looking for great holiday gifts for the dancers in your life? (Or maybe even a little treat for yourself?) ◡̈ We've got you covered! In this episode we're writing the ultimate ballerina Christmas list, and unwrapping the presents we know any dancer would LOVE to receive. So grab your hot cocoa and let's get into it! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 41 - Tutulist.com: A Better Way to Buy & Sell Your Dancewear - Interview with Entrepreneur Sara Judd | 02 Dec 2024 | 00:35:36 | |
Are you looking for a more affordable way to buy your dancewear? What about those leotards sitting in the bottom of your drawer... Would you like to turn them into cash? What if we told you there's a website where you can do both? ◡̈ In this episode, we chat with Sara Judd, the founder of Tutulist.com - a platform for buying and selling gently-used dancewear & costumes. During her time in the ballet world as a dancer & choreographer, she's seen firsthand the need for a more affordable and sustainable option... So she decided to make it herself! We love Sara's passion for ballet fashion (because #SAME) and know you'll love her story and Tutulist.com as much as we do. ♥ So grab your coffee and let's get into it! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 44 - How to Thrive in 2025: Take Your Dancing to the Next Level with These Tips! | 30 Dec 2024 | 00:21:46 | |
Do you want to take your ballet training to the next level this year? Are you ready to come back from the holidays and THRIVE in the studio? We see you, Adult Dancer, and we believe you can do it. ◡̈ That's why we're bringing you the best tips from our most popular episodes in 2024 that will help you achieve your goals and reach your full potential in the studio this year. From effective goal-setting, to nutrition habits, to money-saving hacks, we're giving you all of it in one episode. Grab a coffee and let's get into it! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 43 - Ballet Training Over the Holidays: How to Make It Work for You! | 16 Dec 2024 | 00:21:31 | |
The holidays can be tricky for ballet training... As adults, we have so many demands on our time and energy this time of year - sometimes it feels like we can't possibly maintain our progress in the studio amidst all the hustle & bustle. But with some simple tips and mindset shifts, we believe you can not only survive but THRIVE this holiday season. So grab your hot cocoa and let's get into it! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 47 - Step Into Our Pointe Shoes! How We Prepare Them & What We Put Inside! | 20 Jan 2025 | 00:25:18 | |
Pointe shoes are a bit like snowflakes - no two pairs are the same! In this episode, we're spilling the tea on how we each prepare our shoes and what we put inside them. As an amateur (Hannah) and a professional (Yelena), our feet are super different and so are the methods we use to prepare and comfortably wear our shoes. So if you're looking for suggestions (or you're just a pointe-shoe lover like us) this episode is for you! Let's get into it... And don't forget to show us how you prepare your shoes over on Instagram. ◡̈ Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 46 - Are You Ready to Move Up? Ask Yourself These Questions! | 13 Jan 2025 | 00:24:08 | |
Knowing when we're ready to "move up" in ballet can be so challenging! As adult dancers, most of us will never be told which level of class to take or when we're ready to advance - we're left to make those decisions on our own. So how can you determine for yourself if it's time to start taking more difficult classes? We're here to help! In this episode, we talk about the questions you can ask yourself and the steps you can take to self-assess and determine if you're ready to move up. It's a packed episode, so let's get into it.... And don't forget to download your free PDF guide here! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 45 - Choosing an Online Ballet Program: How to Find the Best Fit for You! | 06 Jan 2025 | 00:24:32 | |
When it comes to online ballet programs, the possibilities are almost endless these days... From structured training plans to drop-in passes, from pre-recorded libraries to live classes - there really is something for everyone! But how do you pick the right program for YOU in this sea of choices? In this episode, we talk about how to define your priorities and ask the questions that will help you identify a good fit. There's a LOT to consider, but with these practical tips you'll find an online program that suits your unique needs & goals in no time. ◡̈ Let's get into it! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 48 - Navigating the Center Portion of Ballet Class: Tips to Feel Confident at Any Level! | 27 Jan 2025 | 00:24:54 | |
For many of us, the center portion of a ballet class is when things start to feel a bit more.... Stressful? Overstimulating? Overwhelming? We've been there! In this episode we talk about ways that you can feel more confident in the center portion of class, no matter your level. Join us for a combination of technique tips and etiquette advice that will help you kick center overwhelm to the curb, and start having fun and feeling your best. ◡̈ Let's get into it! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 49 - Learning Other Styles of Dance: From Salsa to Cabaret - What We've Tried & Loved! | 03 Feb 2025 | 00:21:41 | |
Have you every wondered what it's like to try another style of dance? In this episode, we're sharing our personal experiences training in styles very different from ballet (like cabaret, salsa, flamenco and bachata). How did our ballet background affect the learning process? What lessons did we learn by exploring other styles? We're answering these questions and more... So grab a coffee and let's get into it! Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||
| Ep. 50 - Empower Your Ballet Body! How to Train for Strength & Longevity as an Adult Dancer - Interview with Allie Christensen, Founder of Dancer Strong | 10 Feb 2025 | 00:49:56 | |
As passionate adult dancers, we want to be able to enjoy ballet for the rest of our lives. But how can we actually achieve that? The answer probably isn't what you'd expect... Join us as we talk to Allie Christensen about the unique physical challenges that adult dancers face, and how to train for both longevity & maximum performance now. Through her years of experience training adult dancers, she has developed a unique approach to helping them reach their goals and work smarter. In this episode she shares the secret to feeling your best and, as she says, to "keep dancing until you're 90!" FREE RESOURCES: Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead | |||