Ep. 87 - Finding Creative Joy in Ballet, Business & Beyond, with Kelsey of Rose & Clay Jewelry
What happens when ballet stops being your whole identity, and starts becoming your joy again?In this heartfelt conversation, Hannah talks with Kelsey, adult ballet dancer and founder of Rose & Clay Jewelry, about rediscovering passion, balance, and creativity when life takes an unexpected turn. Kelsey shares how her relationship with ballet has evolved from pre-professional burnout to dancing purely for joy, and how in a season of disappointed hopes, she found creative fulfillment in building a boutique jewelry business.We talk about how the adult ballet community is redefining what it means to be a dancer, the benefits of not being a professional, and the beauty of building a multi-passionate life. If you need to be reminded of the importance of your creative dreams and the value of embracing your unique path, this episode is for you. ✨ Use code AFTERCLASS for 10% off at roseandclayjewelry.com💞 Connect with Kelsey on Instagram @roseandclayjewelryJoin the After Class Corps de Ballet 👇🏼Support the showFollow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunheadExplore blog posts, merchandise & resources for adult ballet dancers like you at thebusybunhead.comPodcast produced by Mission Bridge Media.www.MissionBridgeMedia.com
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Ep. 86 - How to Be a GREAT Ballet Student, with Julie Leung of Broche Ballet 🩰
Ever wonder what makes a truly great ballet student? The kind of student who gets the most out of their classes, and experiences growth and improvement over time? In this episode, I sit down with Julie Leung of Broche Ballet to talk strategies and tips adult dancers can use to be a great student and experience more progress and fulfillment in the studio as a result. Julie shares the habits and mindsets she personally uses to be successful, the common misconceptions that hold adult dancers back, and how to get the most out of every class and private lesson — no matter your level.Whether you’re working toward your first clean pirouette or preparing for an adult ballet performance, this conversation will help you approach your ballet training with confidence, purpose, and a renewed love for the learning process.So grab your notebook (you'll hear why 😉) and join us for this inspiring deep-dive into what it truly means to be a great student... 📣 This episode is kindly sponsored by Align Fitness by Allie! Visit dancerstrongprograms.com to learn more about this game-changing resource, and use code AFTERCLASS for $5 off any course of membership! 🩰 Connect with Julie! Instagram: @brocheballetWebsite: brocheballetonline.comJoin the After Class Corps de Ballet 👇🏼Support the showFollow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunheadExplore blog posts, merchandise & resources for adult ballet dancers like you at thebusybunhead.comPodcast produced by Mission Bridge Media.www.MissionBridgeMedia.com
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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 meaning, connection, and expression to our dancing — whether we’re returning to ballet as adults or continuing to grow in our artistry after years of training.Chelsea’s framework demystifies what artistry looks like, and instead gives us a clear, empowering way to practice it — from breathe and line, to dynamics and body carriage... and more! ✨ In this conversation, we explore:What artistry really means in ballet (and why it’s not an indefinable quality)9 elements of artistry and how to cultivate themHow adult dancers can build artistry with intention and joyWhy developing artistry can reignite your passion for ballet at any stageIf you’ve ever wished you knew how to improve your artistry — this episode is your roadmap! Connect with Chelsea at geekyballerina.comPurchase her book Artistry Inside Ballet Technique, volume 1 on Amazon (affiliate link). Support the showFollow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunheadExplore blog posts, merchandise & resources for adult ballet dancers like you at thebusybunhead.comPodcast produced by Mission Bridge Media.www.MissionBridgeMedia.com
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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 the studio, and why creating performance opportunities is so transformative. This conversation is an honest and encouraging look at what it means to build spaces where adult ballet dancers truly belong — in the studio, on stage, and in community with one another.Connect with Erica on Instagram:Tournesol Dance StudioRochester Adult Ballet CompanyOr visit her website tournesoldance.comJoin the Corps de Ballet below👇🏼Support the showFollow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunheadExplore blog posts, merchandise & resources for adult ballet dancers like you at thebusybunhead.comPodcast produced by Mission Bridge Media.www.MissionBridgeMedia.com
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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 season, not just get by. From simplifying your goals and habit stacking, to adjusting your expectations and resting (guilt-free!), this conversation is a reminder that your ballet training during the holidays can still be effective and enjoyable. Whether you’re deep in Nutcracker season or just trying to keep dancing through December, this episode will help you finish the year feeling balanced and refreshed for the New Year.😄Click below to join the Corps de Ballet 👇🏼Jule DancewearUse code AFTERCLASS15 for 15% off sitewide!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showFollow Hannah on Instagram @thebusybunheadExplore blog posts, merchandise & resources for adult ballet dancers like you at thebusybunhead.comPodcast produced by Mission Bridge Media.www.MissionBridgeMedia.com
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...
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