After Class: The Adult Ballet Podcast
Welcome to After Class, a podcast about all things adult ballet. I’m Hannah — your host and fellow dancer — and I'm so glad you're here! Each week I share stories, strategies, and encouragement to help you stay inspired on your ballet journey, because I understand what it’s like to balance real life and ballet dreams. So grab your water bottle (or cup of coffee) and join me for a chat after class...
Ep. 85 - Defining Artistry in Ballet: 9 Elements Adult Dancers Can Actually Work On, with Chelsea Weidmann
As adult dancers, we hear the word artistry all the time — but what does it really mean? And how can we actually work on it in class, instead of treating it like some elusive, mysterious quality only professionals have?
In this episode, I’m joined by Chelsea Weidmann, founder of GeekyBallerina.com, who has done something truly special: she’s defined artistry in ballet through nine clear, tangible elements that dancers of any age or level can develop.
Together, we talk about how understanding these nine elements can help us bring more m...
Ep. 84 - Creating Spaces Where Adult Ballet Dancers Truly Belong: Erica Centola on Building a Studio & Ballet Company for Adults
Thank you to Align Fitness by Allie for sponsoring this episode of the podcast! To register for her London Intensive click here or visit @alignfitnessbyallie on Instagram.
In this episode of After Class, I'm chatting with Erica Centola, a ballet teacher and company director who returned to dance as an adult and went on to create both a studio and performance company designed specifically for adult dancers.
Erica shares how her own journey back to ballet as a busy adult & mom shaped the way she teaches, the unique challenges she sees adult dancers face in...
Ep. 83 - Tips to End the Year Inspired (Not Exhausted) as an Adult Ballet Dancer
Thank you Jule Dancewear for sponsoring this episode! If you're looking for a supportive new leo, flattering tights, or soft legwarmers, look no further. 👀 Use code AFTERCLASS15 for 15% off your order at juledancewear.com ✨
As the holidays approach and life gets busier, it’s easy for us as adult ballet dancers to slip into survival mode, just trying to make it through until things calm down. But what if you could finish the year feeling strong, inspired, and joyful in your dancing?
In this episode, Hannah shares effective tips to help you thrive during the holiday...
Ep. 82 - Making Sense of Ballet Corrections & Cues with Allie Christensen of Align Fitness
Ever been given a ballet correction that just didn’t make sense? You’re not alone! In this episode, Allie Christensen (founder of Align Fitness and the Dancer Strong platform) joins me to talk about how adult dancers can interpret, understand, and apply the feedback we hear in class. We dive into 3 of the most common corrections (like "don't force your turnout") and explore what they really mean, how to translate them into your own body, and how building strength and awareness outside the studio can make every correction more effective. Whether you’re new to ballet or a season...
Ep. 81 - Barre Trash: Humor, Authenticity, and Changing Ballet Culture with Founders Lucas & Louis
What happens when two professional ballet dancers decide to shake up traditional dancewear with a mix of honesty, humor, and bold design? Enter Barre Trash...
In this episode I talk to the founders, Lucas & Louis, about the story behind the name Barre Trash, how the brand speaks to dancers who feel outside the mold, and how adults are changing ballet culture for the better. We also dig into the realities of going from dancers to dancewear creators, their favorite designs to wear to class, and their vision for Barre Trash in the years ahead.
For...
Ep. 80 - I Cried in the Car After Ballet Today… Here’s What I Learned
In this episode of After Class, I talk about crying in my car last week after ballet class in a moment of frustration and defeat (yep, it happens!), and diving into the lessons I'm learning (work in progress) about patience, self-compassion, and the emotional side of returning to ballet as an adult. If you’ve ever ugly cried after class — or just want a little encouragement — this episode is for you!
🩰 Join the Corps de Ballet for just $3/month using the link below:
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Ep. 79 - A New Season for Our Adult Ballet Podcast: Yelena's Farewell & The Future of After Class
Our adult ballet podcast has always been about community, encouragement, and joy in the journey — and today we’re opening up about a new chapter. One co-host is stepping into new life stages, and the other is carrying the podcast forward with fresh energy and excitement. We look back on favorite moments, thank you for being part of this community, and share what’s ahead. The story isn’t ending — it’s just evolving... So grab your coffee and let's chat. ♥
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Ep. 78 - Stop Waiting to Be "Good Enough" and Enjoy Ballet Now: Here's How!
Do you ever feel like you’re not good enough yet to really enjoy ballet class? You’re not alone — many adult dancers carry the belief that joy in ballet has to be earned through progress, achievement, or “getting good." In this episode, we’re digging into the psychology behind that mindset and exploring why joy isn’t just a reward at the end of the journey, but a powerful tool for growth.
You’ll learn practical ways to reclaim joy in your dancing right now, whether you’re brand new to ballet or returning after years away. Plus, we’l...
Ep. 77 - Zero-Effort Recovery Methods: Easy Ways to Support Your Ballet Training 😅
In this episode of After Class, we’re breaking down easy recovery tips for adult ballet dancers that don’t require extra time or effort. Learn how electrolytes improve hydration and muscle recovery, why Epsom salt baths support relaxation and sleep, and how recovery footwear protects your feet after class. Plus, discover Netflix-friendly recovery tricks like elevating your legs and using toe separators to reduce swelling and release tension. These science-backed, dancer-approved recovery strategies will help you feel energized, supported, and ready for your next class without adding more to your busy schedule. Let's get into it!
Our f...
Ep. 76 - Overcome Pointe Anxiety (Or Any Steps that Scare You): Effective Techniques for Adult Ballet Dancers 🩰
Fear is one of the most common struggles adult ballet dancers face in their pointe work — but it doesn’t have to hold you back! In this episode of After Class, we dive into mental strategies that will help you work with your fear instead of against it. You’ll learn:
What’s really happening in your brain during "pointe anxiety" (and how to use it to your advantage)Focus-shifting techniques that interrupt fear cycles and bring calm to your mind & bodyHow visualization can rewire your brain for successful practice sessions and classes en pointeUsing progressive exposure to tackle t...Ep. 75 - Ballet Studio Closed? 4 Ways to Maintain Momentum When Classes are Cancelled
Summer often means studio closures, but that doesn’t have to mean a break from your progress! In this episode, we give you 4 simple ways to keep your ballet practice alive (and thriving) while your local studio classes are cancelled. From YouTube classes with friends to crafting a personal growth plan, these ideas will keep you motivated and strong. Perfect for adult ballet dancers who want to maintain momentum — no matter the season. Grab a cup of coffee and let's get into it!
➡️ Book a 60 min private lesson with Yelena for $40 AUD here.
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Ep. 74 - How to Wash & Care for Your Ballet Clothes: Laundering Tricky Fabrics & Making Your Dancewear Last!🫧
Tired of your expensive leotards fading & stretching out, your tights slowly turning gray, and your legwarmers pilling too soon? Don't spend another minute being frustrated and confused! In this episode, we’re giving you a step-by-step guide to properly wash and care for your ballet dancewear. 🫧 You'll learn how to correctly launder your ballet clothes, handy tips to save your knitwear, AND our secret weapon for keeping your dance bag spring time fresh.💐
Huge thank you to the sponsor of this episode, RubiaWear! Whether you're heading to the studio or warming up at home, RubiaWear’s line of...
Ep. 73 - KM & Friends Adult Ballet Intensive Recap - Interview with Candis MacKinnon
In this episode, I’m joined by Candis MacKinnon, an adult ballet dancer who recently attended her very first ballet retreat — the KM & Friends Adult Ballet Intensive. We chat about everything from pre-intensive nerves to surprising moments of growth, the power of community, and what made this event so special for adult dancers of all backgrounds.
Whether you're thinking about signing up for your first adult ballet intensive, curious about the behind-the-scenes experience at KM & Friends, or a fellow attendee who just wants to relive the magic of the week with us, this conversation is full of insi...
Ep. 72 - 3 Ways to Instantly Transform Your Dancing, For Adult Ballet Dancers of Any Level! ✨
Want to look like an advanced dancer with minimal effort? In this episode, we’re diving into three game-changing details for adult dancers: hands, eyes, and head placement. We talk about the nuances of how to properly extend your fingers, activate your eye line, and hold your chin that teachers don’t always have time to explain in class. Whether you're dancing at home or in a studio, the tips in this episode will instantly elevate your lines and your confidence. Press play and level up your ballet game today!
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Ep. 71 - Ballet Hygiene 101: How to Stay Fresh, Clean & Confident in Class!
Let’s be real, ballet class can get sweaty, smelly, and a little messy — especially when you're juggling adult life and a dance bag full of gear! 😅 In this episode, we cover essential hygiene tips for every dancer — like wearing perfume in class (yes or no?), how to keep your bag fresh, and why your hairstyle matters... We’re tackling it all! Tune in for practical, no-shame tips that will make feel polished, professional, and confident in class. 🩰 Grab your coffee and let's get into it!
Mentioned in the episode (Amazon affiliate links):
Frenchies hairpins
Dance bag laven...
Ep. 70 - From Couch to Class: How Watching Ballet Can Transform Your Training (It's Backed by Science!) 😄
Think watching ballet is just for inspiration? Think again. In this episode, we explore why adult dancers can actually improve their technique, artistry, and understanding just by watching professionals in action — on stage or on screen! Backed by neuroscience, we’ll break down how observation fuels progress and why making time to watch ballet might be just as important as time spent in the studio... Grab your coffee (or tea) and let's get into it!
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Ep. 69 - Ballet Faux Pas to Avoid: Common Mistakes Adult Dancers Make (We've All Been There!)
Ever worried you’re breaking an unspoken rule in ballet class? You’re not alone. In this episode of After Class, we’re diving into the most common ballet "faux pas". From standing in the front row to texting during barre, we're sharing the studio slip-up's, fashion mistakes, and technology no-no's to avoid for a successful class. Whether you’re new to ballet or returning after a break, this episode will help you navigate class with the confidence of a seasoned dancer. Let's get into it!
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Ep. 68 - Honest Thoughts on Getting Ready for an Adult Ballet Intensive
In this episode of After Class, Hannah shares how she prepared for an adult ballet intensive this summer, and what she did differently from previous years. From mindset shifts to training tweaks, she's breaking down what worked for her and what she recommends to other adult dancer considering an intensive. Whether it’s your first intensive or fifth, you’ll find helpful tips, honest reflections, and plenty of encouragement in this episode. So grab a cup of coffee and let's get into it!
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Ep. 67 - Pregnancy & Postpartum as an Adult Ballet Dancer: Real Talk with Yelena (She's Back!)
In this special episode, we welcome back our co-host Yelena from maternity leave as she opens up about her experience with pregnancy and postpartum recovery as an adult ballet dancer & teacher. From the unique challenges of dancing while expecting to how ballet impacted her strength and body awareness for childbirth, Yelena shares an honest look at navigating this major life transition through the lens of a dancer. Whether you're a mom, planning to be one, or just curious, this candid conversation is a powerful reminder of just how incredible ballet can be —not just as an art form, but as...
Ep. 66 - Debunking the Turnout Myth in Adult Ballet: History, Reality & How to Improve - Interview with Geeky Ballerina founder, Chelsea Weidmann
Is "flat" turnout really necessary as an adult dancer? Is it even possible to improve my turnout? If you've asked yourself these questions, this episode is for you! We're joined by ballet teacher and Geeky Ballerina founder, Chelsea Weidmann, to discuss the history of turnout in ballet, why it’s not as essential as many adult dancers believe, and how to improve your turnout safely and effectively. This episode offers practical tips, myth-busting insights, and encouragement for every adult ballet dancer. Learn how to work with your body, instead of against it, and dance with more freedom in the st...
Ep. 65 - Finding Purpose in Ballet While Living With a Rare Brain Tumor - Interview with Adult Ballet Dancer, Natalie Walsh da Silva
What happens when life throws you a curveball and you meet it with resilience and a little bit of ballet? In this episode, we're joined by Natalie, who discovered her passion for ballet after being diagnosed with a rare brain tumor that required her to give up surfing. We talk about the joy (and challenges) of starting ballet as an adult, the power of dance to bring purpose to our lives, and how she’s learned to embrace challenges, both on and off the dance floor. Whether you’re an adult ballet dancer, curious about starting ballet, or just need...
Ep. 64 - Real Talk on Navigating Discouragement in Your Adult Ballet Journey - Guest co-host, Stacy Santos
Feeling discouraged in your ballet journey? You're not alone. In this episode, we get real about the emotional ups and downs that come with being an adult ballet dancer — especially when progress feels slow or you're just plain burnt out. With guest co-host, Stacy Santos, we dig into practical tips on how to manage seasons of discouragement and reconnect with the joy of dancing. So if you've been in a rough patch (like we have) this conversation is for you... So grab your coffee and let's get into it!
Connect with Stacy on Instagram @hey_stacee
...
Ep. 63 - From Studio to Startup: How One Adult Dancer Created the Ballet Skirts She Couldn’t Find - Interview with Chelsea of Dianne Dancewear
Have you ever found yourself standing in a dance store, surrounded by tiny skirts that will never work for your adult ballerina body? In this episode, Chelsea shares her inspiring journey from beginner ballet dancer to founder of Dianne Dancewear, a brand creating beautiful, size-inclusive ballet skirts made specifically for adults. We talk about finding confidence in the studio through dancewear, the power of inclusive design, and what it takes to turn a personal frustration into a mission that resonates with dancers everywhere. Grab a coffee and let's get into it!
Connect with Chelsea: @chelsea_hhf
<...Ep. 62 - Adult Ballet Intensives: Preparing Your Body to Thrive, Before, During & After! Interview with Allie Christensen of Dancer Strong
With summer intensives approaching, you might be wondering: How can I make sure my body is prepared for the demands of long days in the studio? What can I do now to set myself up for success at a ballet intensive? Luckily, there's A LOT you can do before, during and even after your intensive to take care of your body and set yourself up for long-term success! In this episode, Allie Christensen (owner of Align Fitness & founder of the Dancer Strong platform) is giving us her best advice gleaned from years of training dancers and teaching at intensives...
Ep. 61 - Size-Inclusive Style Tips for Adult Dancers: Create a Ballet Wardrobe You Love at Any Size! Interview with Maggie Watson
Most of us have been personally victimized by a dancewear size chart at some point... Whether it's limited size ranges or leotards with effectively no butt-coverage, we understand how hard it can be for adult dancers to cultivate a ballet wardrobe that makes you feel GREAT. That's why we're so excited to have Maggie Watson (a true ballet-style icon) co-hosting this episode! In it she shares her secrets for sourcing beautiful & comfortable dancewear (spoiler: it's often NOT from dancewear brands) and for styling outfits in a way that compliments and celebrates your curves. If you're an adult dancer who...
Ep. 60 - Essential Ballet Terminology to Level Up Your Game!
Oh the world of ballet terminology... It's fancy, its frustrating, it's French... 😳 So what's a dancer to do? Start by listening to this episode! In it, we're breaking down the most commonly used terms in ballet class and explaining what they actually mean and how they're used. We know how overwhelming a class can be, but if you understand these words, you'll be dancing with confidence and clarity. Ready to level up your game? Let's get into it!
Download your FREE guide to essential ballet terms!
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Ep. 59 - Ballet's "Linking" Steps: What They Are and How to Conquer Them!
Are you struggling to reach the next level in your ballet training? The secret to improving might be in your linking steps... Linking steps (also referred to as "transition steps" or "connecting steps") are often not broken down in adult ballet classes, which can leave us feeling like we're just fumbling through the choreography. If you want to feel like you're thriving in class instead of just surviving, we're here to help! In this episode we're breaking down what exactly linking steps are, and how you can conquer them. It's an episode you don't want to miss if you're...
Ep. 58 - The Weirdest Things in Our Ballet Bags: Don't Judge Us! 🫣
Join us for a short, chatty episode about the most random items in our dance bags... And don't forget to head over to Instagram this week to vote on our poll (to wash or not wash your ballet slippers) and answer the question, "What's the strangest thing in YOUR dance bag?" It's a short and light-hearted one, so grab your beverage of choice and let's get into it!
Support the show
Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead
Explore blog posts, merchandise & resources for adult ballet dancers like you at thebusybunhead.com
Podcast...
Ep. 57 - Making Ballet Work for Your Schedule: Time Management Tips for Adult Dancers!
Do you ever feel like it's either all or nothing when it comes to making your ballet training worthwhile? I mean, if you can't make it to an hour+ technique class, what's the point - right? In this episode we talk about how to fit ballet into your busy schedule, even if you only have 5 minutes! Join us as we dive into practical tips and strategies for managing your time as an adult dancer—whether you're juggling work, family, or just life in general. Small but consistent steps can lead to BIG progress in your dance journey... Let's get int...
Ep. 56 - The Key to Beautiful Dancing at Any Age or Level: Artistry in Adult Ballet
In this (possibly controversial) episode, we're diving into the topic of artistry. In modern ballet culture, it's often overshadowed by the more physical and technical elements, but is that a good thing? What makes a dancer truly captivating to watch? What makes a performance memorable? Artistry is a hallmark of every great dancer, and lucky for us adults, it's possible at any age and any level. ◡̈ Grab your coffee and let's get into it!
Dancers to Study:
Fonteyn & Nureyev
Alicia Alonso (dancing here at 58 yrs old!)
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Ep. 55 - Ready for Pointe? How to Know & What to Do Next! (pt 2)
Wondering if you're ready to start pointe training as an adult ballet dancer? In this two-part series, we're breaking down the many facets of pointe readiness (physical, technical, and mental) to help you determine if/when to take the leap into the wonderful world of pointe. ◡̈ In this second episode, we're focusing on the mental side of pointe readiness and providing practical tips to guide your next steps once you're ready to begin. (We're rooting for you!) And don't forget to listen to part one, if you haven't already. ◡̈
Download your FREE Pointe Readiness Checklist here!
Book a...
Ep. 54 - Ready for Pointe? Here's How to Know! (pt 1)
Wondering if you're ready to start pointe training as an adult ballet dancer? In this two-part series, we're breaking down the many facets of pointe readiness (physical, technical, and mental) to help you determine if/when to take the leap into the wonderful world of pointe. ◡̈ In this first episode, we're focusing on the physical and technical "checklists" you can use to assess yourself... Let's get into it!
Download your FREE Pointe Readiness Checklist here!
Book a pointe consultation with Yelena: yelena@onlineballetclasses.com
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Ep. 53 - Social Media in Adult Ballet: Our Hot Takes and Tips
The social media side of ballet is kind of a mixed bag... Some things are great and others, well..... not so much. Like most things in life, it's really what you make it. In this episode, we talk about the pro's & con's of consuming ballet content, and how you can avoid digital overwhelm and get the most out of social media as an adult dancer. Everything you want to know - like how to find community, maintain a healthy mindset, and curate your feed for maximum effectiveness - is packed into this episode, so let's get into it! ♥
S...
Ep. 52 - Ballet Tights: Everything You Need to Know & How to Find Your Perfect Pair!
Is it possible to do an entire podcast episode on tights, you ask? Well... We did! ◡̈ There's a lot to consider when it comes to choosing your best pair of tights - things like style, color and fit, just to name a few! In this episode, we're breaking down all of the options available to adult dancers and sharing our personal favorites. So the next time you walk into a dance store or peruse the internet you can know exactly what you're looking for and confidently choose the right pair of tights for you. ◡̈
Don't forget to check o...
Ep. 51 - Celebrating Our One Year Anniversary!
We can't believe today is the one year anniversary of the podcast - what a fun ride it's been! Thanks to your support, we've been able to hit some incredible milestones and bring on some very special guests. In today's celebratory episode, we're sharing our personal highlights, listener feedback and plans for the coming year. 2025 is going to be full of all the ballet topics you love, including technique, style, tips and interviews with fellow ballet-lovers!♥ Let's get into it!
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Ep. 50 - Empower Your Ballet Body! How to Train for Strength & Longevity as an Adult Dancer - Interview with Allie Christensen, Founder of Dancer Strong
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...
Ep. 49 - Learning Other Styles of Dance: From Salsa to Cabaret - What We've Tried & Loved!
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!
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Follow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunhead
Explore blog posts, merchandise & resources for adult ballet dancers like you at thebusybunhead.com
Podcast produced...
Ep. 48 - Navigating the Center Portion of Ballet Class: Tips to Feel Confident at Any Level!
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!
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Ep. 47 - Step Into Our Pointe Shoes! How We Prepare Them & What We Put Inside!
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. ◡̈
Y...
Ep. 46 - Are You Ready to Move Up? Ask Yourself These Questions!
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...
