CoLab Conversations

CoreAlign CoLab & Arwen Brooke

CoLab Conversations is the podcast for CoreAlign teachers, Pilates instructors, and movement enthusiasts passionate about mindful movement and its potential to heal. Hosted by Arwen Brooke of CoreAlign CoLab, this podcast brings you inspiring conversations with leaders and pioneers in the field. Explore teaching strategies, movement science, and breakthrough discoveries as we connect a global community of educators in the spirit of learning, sharing, and uplifting one another. Produced by CoreAlign CoLab & Arwen Brooke

  1. Embodiment, the Nervous System & CoreAlign: Rethinking How We Teach Movement with Krista Loveless Lennartz

    MAR 25

    Embodiment, the Nervous System & CoreAlign: Rethinking How We Teach Movement with Krista Loveless Lennartz

    Welcome back to another episode of CoLab Conversations, today we are joined by Krista Loveless Lennartz, a Portland-based movement educator, studio owner, and CoreAlign specialist with over 26 years of experience in Pilates and movement science.With a background in dance education, psychology, and a master’s degree in motor learning and control from Columbia University, Krista brings a deeply thoughtful and science-backed approach to how we teach, experience, and embody movement. In this conversation, you’ll hear how Krista: Reframes movement from “doing it right” to building awareness and adaptabilityUses CoreAlign to support nervous system regulation and embodied learningTeaches agency by helping students reflect, adapt, and make decisions in their bodiesCreates inclusive movement experiences that honor individual differencesApplies motor learning principles to deepen how people learn and retain movementBuilds a thriving studio culture rooted in collaboration, sustainability, and joy Whether you’re a movement professional, studio owner, or simply someone looking to deepen your connection to your body, this episode offers a refreshing perspective on what it truly means to move well. Krista reminds us that movement isn’t about perfection, it’s about presence, curiosity, and building a relationship with ourselves that fosters awareness, resilience, and joy. Resources Mentioned: Krista’s blogs: https://thepracticespace.com/blog-newsletterCoreAlign CoLab classes, workshops & community: https://www.colabmovement.com/corealigncolabCoLab Flex On-Demand Library: https://www.colabmovement.com/on-demandGuest Bio:Krista Loveless Lennartz has been teaching movement for over 26 years and is a Portland-based movement educator, studio owner, and CoreAlign specialist. With a background in dance education and psychology from Marymount Manhattan College, she began her Pilates journey at the Kane School of Core Integration in New York City and later earned a master’s degree in Motor Learning and Control from Teachers College at Columbia University. As the owner of The Practice Space in Portland, Oregon, Krista integrates science, curiosity, and compassion into her work, helping individuals and instructors shift from “doing it right” to developing awareness, adaptability, and agency through movement, while fostering an inclusive, collaborative, and sustainable studio environment. Her specialties include: Embodiment & Motor Learning: Applying neuroscience and motor learning principles to help clients better understand how they move and learn.CoreAlign Training: Utilizing CoreAlign to enhance proprioception, balance, and functional movement patterns in a standing, real-life context.Nervous System Awareness: Creating movement experiences that support regulation, adaptability, and present-moment awareness.Teacher Development: Mentoring instructors to build confidence, curiosity, and effective communication in their teaching.Studio Leadership & Culture: Building a sustainable, collaborative studio environment that prioritizes wellbeing, growth, and community. Connect with Krista:📸 @lovelesslearning on Instagram Follow CoreAlign CoLab:📸 @corealign.colab📸 @arwenbrooke_pilates▶️ @ArwenBrooke_CoreAlignCoLab on YouTube🌐 corealigncolab.com | colabmovement.com

    54 min
  2. Training Professional Athletes: Bridging Physical Therapy and Pro Sports with Priya Chisti

    FEB 17

    Training Professional Athletes: Bridging Physical Therapy and Pro Sports with Priya Chisti

    Welcome to the first episode of 2026 of CoLab Conversations. In this conversation, Priya Chisti shares how she integrates Pilates and CoreAlign into a high-level physical therapy clinic. Working alongside physical therapists in Orange County, she helps professional athletes from the MLB, NHL, and Team USA return to peak performance. Priya explains why she views the human body as a puzzle and how she uses movement to solve complex injury challenges. This episode highlights the powerful synergy between clinical rehabilitation and the creative, functional progression that Pilates provides for elite movers. In this conversation, you’ll hear how Priya: Collaborates with physical therapists to take clients from clinical graduation into dynamic, long-term movement Shares insights into working with professional baseball, hockey, and figure skating athletes to improve functionality and sport-specific patterns Chose to share her “why” and “how” online, turning her social media platform into a generous educational resource for instructors worldwide Leverages the CoreAlign for gait training, weight shifts, and specific feedback that traditional springs cannot provide Embraces the apprenticeship style of learning and explains why seeing real-world sessions is vital for teacher growth We also talk about how Priya’s upcoming workshop on sport-specific training invites teachers to get creative with the CoreAlign, layer in props like the OOV, and rediscover the human element of teaching through lightheartedness and play. Resources Mentioned Upcoming Workshop with Priya Chisti — Training Athletes on the CoreAlign Priya’s Website: www.pilatespriya.com CoreAlign CoLab classes, workshops & community: https://www.colabmovement.com/corealigncolab CoLab Flex On-Demand Library: https://www.colabmovement.com/on-demand Guest Bio: Priya has been practicing Pilates since she was twelve years old and has over ten years of experience as a professional instructor. After facing multiple injuries during her career as a professional dancer and touring from 2007 to 2020, she found that Pilates was the most effective method for managing her hyper-mobility. She holds a BA in Dance Science and a BS in Kinesiology from California State University, Long Beach, and bridges the gap between clinical rehabilitation and high-level performance at Newport Physical Therapy. Her unique background allows her to empathize with patients recovering from surgery while simultaneously challenging elite athletes to reach their peak. Her specialties include: Sports Performance: Optimizing results for clients by focusing on proper form and the "why" behind every movement to get the most out of every session. Injury Prevention: Utilizing three-dimensional study of body movement to evaluate muscle activity and joint/fascial range of motion, helping to minimize injury risk. Rehabilitative: A specialized focus on individual needs rather than conventional high-repetition exercise, to increase strength through stability, mobility, and elasticity. Dance Specialization: Supporting artistic athletes through core stability, alignment, and creative movement patterns tailored to the demands of professional performance. Connect with Priya: 📸 @pilates.with.priya on Instagram Follow CoreAlign CoLab: 📸 @corealign.colab 📸 @arwenbrooke_pilates ▶️ @ArwenBrooke_CoreAlignCoLab on YouTube corealigncolab.com | colabmovement.com

    36 min

  3. 2025-12-18

    Resourcing Ourselves: A Year-End Reflection & What’s Ahead

    As the year comes to a close, Arwen steps out from behind the interviewer’s chair to offer a nourishing solo episode focused on reflection, resourcing, and intentional care, for yourself, your clients, and your business. In this episode, Arwen reflects on the first full year of CoLab Conversations, highlighting the themes that emerged across conversations with CoreAlign educators, innovators, and movement leaders. From compassion in teaching to accessibility, curiosity, and nervous system regulation, these shared insights reveal what truly supports sustainable movement practices. Arwen also shares practical ways to move through the busy holiday season with more ease, by slowing down, listening inward, and offering the same care to clients and teams that we hope to give ourselves. She closes by sharing what’s ahead for CoreAlign CoLab in 2026, including live pop-up classes, expanded education offerings, and an open invitation for more voices to join the community. This episode is an invitation to pause, reflect, and step forward into the new year feeling grounded, supported, and connected. CoLab’s 2026 Community Survey As CoreAlign CoLab moves into a new year, we’d love to hear from you. If you’ve been listening to CoLab Conversations, taking classes, or engaging with the community in any way, your perspective matters. This short year-end reflection survey helps shape what’s ahead for CoreAlign CoLab in 2026—from education offerings to classes, conversations, and community support. ✨ Share your reflections, requests, and ideas HERE. Your responses directly inform future programming and help ensure CoreAlign CoLab continues to support you, your clients, and your work in meaningful ways. Thank you for being part of this growing community. Resources Mentioned CoreAlign CoLab classes, workshops & community: https://www.colabmovement.com/corealigncolab CoLab Flex On-Demand Library: https://www.colabmovement.com/on-demand About the Host Arwen Brooke is the owner of CoLab Movement Studio, founder of CoreAlign CoLab, and an educator for Balanced Body Pilates & CoreAlign. She is also a founding member of the Pilates Education Collective. Arwen has been teaching Pilates since 2006 and training teachers since 2011. She became a CoreAlign educator in 2018 and completed her 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training in 2020, blending Pilates, CoreAlign, and yoga into her work. She specializes in pain relief, functional movement, and building strength with ease. Known for her clear, supportive teaching style, Arwen helps students understand their bodies and create lasting change. Based in the Santa Cruz Mountains, California, Arwen offers in-person sessions in Ben Lomond and virtual classes worldwide. When she’s not teaching, she’s hiking, traveling, or spending time with her family. Follow CoreAlign CoLab: 📸 @corealign.colab 📸 @arwenbrooke_pilates ▶️ @ArwenBrooke_CoreAlignCoLab on YouTube 🌐 corealigncolab.com | colabmovement.com

    32 min
  4. Why He Does This Work: A Closer Conversation with Jonathan Hoffman

    2025-11-21

    Why He Does This Work: A Closer Conversation with Jonathan Hoffman

    Jonathan Hoffman — the visionary mind behind the CoreAlign, returns to the podcast for a deeper, more personal conversation about the work he’s been building behind the scenes. After four years treating movement-based chronic pain in a public PT clinic, Jonathan has refined a simple, accessible system of Strategic Exercises that’s helping clients feel better faster, often in ways that surprise even seasoned instructors. In this episode, Jonathan shares why these exercises work, how they connect to his decades of study, and why Pilates and CoreAlign instructors are uniquely positioned to help people before pain becomes a lifelong struggle. If you loved his first appearance, you’ll want to hear where his work has evolved and how it might change the way you teach and move. In this conversation, you’ll hear how Jonathann Developed his Strategic Exercises system while working with real chronic pain cases every day Uses simple, pain-free movement to help clients shift out of pain faster than they expect Blends science, mindfulness, and full-body movement in a way instructors can actually apply Identifies patterns in pain that point to the “right” exercise at the right moment Sees Pilates and CoreAlign instructors as key players in preventing unnecessary pain and interventions Resources Mentioned CoreAlign CoLab: Strategic Exercises with CoreAlign https://momence.com/c/27912 Previous Episode with Jonathan Hoffman https://open.spotify.com/episode/20cIpiwDEtYSpcvsGV9oE9 Balanced Body Blog: The Core: https://thecore.pilates.com/strategic-exercises-a-game-changer-for-pilates-corealign-instructors/ Free Webinar: Strategic Exercises & the CoreAlign: Jonathan Hoffman Shares His Latest Innovations https://youtu.be/QeCrHtdCo_E Learn more from Jonathan Hoffman through CoreAlign CoLab https://www.colabmovement.com/jhoffman Guest Bio: Jonathan Hoffman is a globally recognized physical therapist, movement innovator, and educator. His personal educators include physical therapists Bob Elvey, Brian Mulligan and Max Zusman. Jonathan is best known as the creator of CoreAlign, MoonRun, and StarBarre—groundbreaking systems that have significantly influenced Pilates, physical therapy, and the broader fitness industry. His work helps people move more harmoniously and function more effectively, particularly in upright positions.  Drawing on decades of study, research, and hands-on experience treating tens of thousands of clients—including elite professional athletes—Jonathan’s approach is shaped by his keen observation of natural movement, active listening, and a unique integration of science and intuition. His mission is to bridge biomechanics and holistic movement to promote sustainable, pain-free, and functional living.  Follow CoreAlign CoLab: 📸 @corealign.colab 📸 @arwenbrooke_pilates ▶️ @ArwenBrooke_CoreAlignCoLab on YouTube 🌐 corealigncolab.com | colabmovement.com

    52 min

  5. 2025-10-22

    Stepping Into Strength: Expanding CoreAlign Possibilities with Carrie Lamb

    In this episode, Balanced Body Educator, physical therapist, and studio owner Carrie Lamb joins us to explore what it really means to build strength, on the CoreAlign and beyond. Carrie shares how her background in physical therapy and Pilates led her to discover the CoreAlign, why it completely changed her approach to rehab and movement, and how she continues to find creativity and curiosity after more than 25 years in the field. From her small studio in Golden, Colorado, Carrie blends clinical insight with a deep love of teaching. In this conversation, she opens up about how to guide students from “what they can’t do” to “what they can,” how to think outside the box while honoring the CoreAlign curriculum, and why collaboration and community are vital for long-term growth as teachers and movers. In this conversation, you’ll hear how Carrie: Discovered the CoreAlign and why it reignited her curiosity as both a PT and educator Blends Pilates and CoreAlign in her studio to support real-world movement and rehabilitation Cultivates collaboration and communication in her teaching team Uses resistance, curiosity, and “stepping into strength” to help clients and teachers expand beyond their comfort zones Developed her upcoming CoLab workshop to inspire creative exploration and confident teaching We also talk about how Carrie’s “Stepping Into Strength” workshop invites teachers to rethink resistance, challenge their habits, and rediscover the joy of play and experimentation, both in their practice and their teaching. Resources Mentioned Upcoming Workshop with Carrie Lamb — November 16th, 1:00 PM PST Stepping Into Strength on the CoreAlign Carrie’s Websites: Classes & Studio: movementconnectsus.com Education & Training: connectwithpilates.com Guest Bio:Carrie Lamb is a studio owner and board-certified orthopedic physical therapist with over 20 years in practice. Her Pilates training is eclectic with certifications from Polestar and Balanced Body. These two programs combined with her physical therapy background have transformed Carrie’s understanding of the integration of mind, body, and movement. Her specialties include: Integrating Pilates and CoreAlign for rehabilitation and performance Teaching movement through curiosity, collaboration, and clear communication Strength progression and resistance exploration for functional results Mentoring instructors to think creatively and problem-solve with confidence Connect with Carrie: 📸 @connectphysical on Instagram Follow CoreAlign CoLab: 📸 @corealign.colab 📸 @arwenbrooke_pilates ▶️ @ArwenBrooke_CoreAlignCoLab on YouTube corealigncolab.com | colabmovement.com

    45 min

  6. 2025-09-24

    Functional CoreAlign: Movement for Real Life with Deana Blackman

    In this episode, Deana Blackman, owner of Rhythm and Flow Pilates in Sharon, MA, and a Balanced Body Master Trainer in Pilates and CoreAlign, shares how the CoreAlign reshaped her teaching, how standing movement creates stronger connections to daily life, and how sensory integration, from visual to proprioceptive cues, can empower students to create lasting change. With a special passion for working with neurological conditions like MS, Stroke, and Parkinson’s, Deana reminds us that movement isn’t about perfection, it’s about confidence, freedom, and real-life function. In this conversation, you’ll hear how Deana: Discovered the CoreAlign and why it reignited her passion for teaching Pilates Uses movement puzzles to help clients overcome pain and regain confidence Integrates Pilates and CoreAlign to support real-life functional movement Applies sensory integration (visual, vestibular, proprioceptive) to enhance learning and reduce over-cueing We also talk about the powerful ways she uses the CoreAlign to transform lives  like helping a client with chronic neck pain return to hiking and yoga, and supporting Edith, in her 80s, to walk out of the studio without her cane. Deana shares how she helps clients find freedom, confidence, and strength through their work, along with what’s ahead: her new CoLab classes and her upcoming October workshop on the visual system. Resources Mentioned Upcoming Workshop with Deana, October 25th 9:00 AM PST See It, Move It, Transform It: Harness the Visual System with CoreAlign to Unlock Effortless Movement: Learn More Deana Blackman’s website: rhythmandflowpilates.com CoreAlign CoLab classes, workshops & community: corealigncolab.com Guest Bio: Deana Blackman is the owner of Rhythm and Flow Pilates in Sharon, MA, and a Balanced Body Master Trainer in Pilates and CoreAlign®. With over 25 years of teaching experience, she blends the science of smart movement with a focus on creativity and compassion. Deana has advanced training through The Neuro Studio and a special passion for supporting people living with neurological conditions. Her specialties include: Integrating Pilates principles with the CoreAlign® to create functional, real-life movement patterns Sensory integration training (visual, vestibular, and proprioceptive) to enhance learning and reduce pain Movement problem-solving for clients with chronic pain, injuries, and neurological conditions such as MS, Stroke, and Parkinson’s disease Functional outcomes for daily life — helping clients walk with confidence, regain independence, and return to activities they love Connect with Deana: 📸 @rhythmandflowpilates on Instagram Follow CoreAlign CoLab: 📸 @corealign.colab 📸 @arwenbrooke_pilates ▶️ @ArwenBrooke_CoreAlignCoLab on YouTube 🌐 corealigncolab.com | colabmovement.com

    57 min

  7. 2025-08-22

    Creative CoreAlign: Continuing Education for Teachers

    In this episode of CoLab Conversations, we're joined by Cynthia Bahmani, a longtime movement educator, Balanced Body educator, and a new contributor on CoreAlign CoLab. Cynthia shares her journey into professional movement education, from her beginnings as a professional dancer to her discovery of the CoreAlign as a "missing link" in her training. This conversation explores how she uses the CoreAlign to help clients with a range of conditions, her unique approach to course development, and what it means to keep evolving as a teacher. In this conversation, you’ll hear how Cynthia: Discovered CoreAlign and felt it was the "missing link" for translating her dance training to the Pilates studio. Works with diverse client populations, including those with scoliosis, osteoporosis, athletic goals, and neurological conditions. Approaches movement as a "playground," exploring the space around the CoreAlign to create new and unique exercises for her clients. Has developed workshops for specific populations to help other teachers use the CoreAlign more effectively. Developed her ROTATE and RECIPROCATE™ course to improve gait patterning by incorporating upper body resistance. We also talk about the powerful ways she's using the CoreAlign to support clients, including a person who uses a wheelchair and a woman who had a double mastectomy. Cynthia shares how she helps these clients find more confidence, range of motion, and a feeling of being "pulled together" through their work on the CoreAlign. Resources Mentioned CoreAlign for Dancers: https://www.cynthiabahmanipilates.com/corealign-for-dancers GotStrongBones: https://www.gotstrongbones.com/ Explore all live and on-demand CoreAlign CoLab workshops here:https://www.colabmovement.com/corealign-education Cynthia Bahmani’s website: cynthiabahmanipilates.com CoreAlign Classes On Demand: CoLab Flex Become a Flex Member: Join Free for 7 Days Get a CoLab Tank Top: Women’s / Unisex Guest Bio:Cynthia Bahmani is the owner of Cynthia Bahmani Pilates in San Anselmo, CA, a Certified Pilates Instructor, Balanced Body Konnector® Educator, and CoreAlign® Specialist and Workshop Presenter. With a foundation in professional dance, she began her Pilates training at NYU under Kathleen Stanford Grant, one of Joseph Pilates’ original students. Her specialties include: Classical Pilates with a highly personalized approach for diverse physical conditions, including pre- and post-surgical care Gait patterning and neuromuscular integration using the CoreAlign® and other apparatus Sports-specific conditioning for dancers and performing artists From 2000–2002, Cynthia served as a Dance Medicine Specialist at St. Francis Memorial Hospital in San Francisco, working with professional dancers and athletes on injury prevention and recovery. In 2015, she co-developed ROTATE and RECIPROCATE™: Gait Work and Beyond, a CoreAlign® workshop offering six CECs through the National Pilates Certification Program. She has taught on two Cirque du Soleil productions, co-founded GotStrongBones, and leads Fitness for Bone Health Week at Rancho La Puerta Wellness Retreat. Guided by her motto “People first, Pilates second,” Cynthia helps clients move toward their best health through thoughtful, creative, and collaborative teaching. Connect with Cynthia:📸 @bahmanipilates on Instagram Follow CoreAlign CoLab:📸 @corealign.colab📸 @arwenbrooke_pilates▶️ @ArwenBrooke_CoreAlignCoLab on YouTube🌐 corealigncolab.com | colabmovement.com

    56 min

  8. 2025-07-16

    Building Community, Confidence & Revenue with CoreAlign

    In this episode of CoLab Conversations, we are joined by Holly Holland, owner of Holly's Pilates Village and a Master Teacher Trainer for Pilates Sports Center. Holly shares how introducing the CoreAlign system not only transformed her studio’s movement offerings but also tripled her business revenue. From training staff to marketing smart and nurturing a vibrant client community, this conversation offers practical insights for any studio owner looking to grow with purpose. In this conversation, you’ll hear how Holly: Tripled her studio’s revenue after making CoreAlign a visible, central feature of her offerings Uses CoreAlign to serve specialized populations, including clients with osteoporosis, scoliosis, and neurological conditions Built a teaching-focused culture where many instructors began as clients and now train under her guidance Leverages storytelling, personal notes, and physician referrals to organically grow her client base Runs her studio like a “teaching hospital,” with ongoing mentorship, education, and collaboration among staff We also talk about how CoreAlign bridges the gap between traditional Pilates and real-world movement, building balance, confidence, and strength in clients of all ages. Holly shares candid lessons from studio ownership, including the importance of visibility, adaptability, and listening to your community. Whether you’re considering adding CoreAlign to your studio or looking to deepen your impact with the clients you already serve, this conversation is packed with wisdom, heart, and practical ideas you can use right away. Resources Mentioned Holly's Pilates Village Bone Strong for Osteoporosis YouTube Channel Buff Bones® Training with Rebekah Rotstein Guest Bio: Holly Holland is the owner of Holly’s Pilates Village in Louisville, KY, and a Master Teacher Trainer with Pilates Sports Center. A Nationally Certified Pilates Teacher, Holly is also a Level 3 Neuro Studio Practitioner, a Balanced Body CoreAlign® specialist, and a longtime educator in multiple movement modalities. With a background in journalism and publishing, she brings a storyteller’s clarity and a teacher’s heart to everything she does. Her specialties include: Pilates for neurological conditions and brain-body retraining Bone health and strength for aging populations (Buff Bones®) Equipment-based movement training, including CoreAlign®, TRX®, and assisted stretching Holly holds advanced certifications in yoga, CoreAlign®, and MSTR® scar tissue release, and is known for mentoring instructors and building a thriving, inclusive studio community. Her approach combines deep technical knowledge with a passion for empowering clients and teachers alike. Connect with Holly: 📸 @pilates_village Follow CoreAlign CoLab: 📸 @corealign.colab 📸 @arwenbrooke_pilates ▶️ @ArwenBrooke_CoreAlignCoLab on YouTube 🌐 corealigncolab.com | colabmovement.com

    50 min
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About

CoLab Conversations is the podcast for CoreAlign teachers, Pilates instructors, and movement enthusiasts passionate about mindful movement and its potential to heal. Hosted by Arwen Brooke of CoreAlign CoLab, this podcast brings you inspiring conversations with leaders and pioneers in the field. Explore teaching strategies, movement science, and breakthrough discoveries as we connect a global community of educators in the spirit of learning, sharing, and uplifting one another. Produced by CoreAlign CoLab & Arwen Brooke

Information

  • Creator
    CoreAlign CoLab & Arwen Brooke
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    13
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © CoreAlign CoLab & Arwen Brooke
  • Show Website
    CoLab Conversations