The Dr. Dance Mom Podcast

Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT
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Perspectives and stories from my experience as a DPT who specializes in working with artistic athletes and active individuals and my experience navigating the competitive dance world with my daughter.

  1. 1D AGO

    Teaching With Care: Consent and Trauma-Informed Practices In Dance

    Send us a text Hosted by: Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT Guest: Nicole Perry MFA, CLMA In this episode: I interview movement professional Nicole Perry, who shares her extensive background in dance education, intimacy coordination, and trauma-informed teaching. We discuss the importance of communication, power dynamics, and consent in dance education, as well as the need for professional development for teachers. Nicole emphasizes the significance of creating safe spaces for students and the role of self-advocacy in their learning journey. The conversation highlights the necessity of understanding discomfort versus safety and the impact of trauma-informed practices in fostering a supportive learning environment. Takeaways Power dynamics in dance education can influence student behavior and learning.Clear communication of expectations is crucial in dance studios.Touch in dance education should be approached with consent and care.Trauma-informed teaching practices help create safe learning environments.Closure practices can help students transition between emotional states.Self-advocacy is essential for students in dance education.Understanding the difference between discomfort and safety is vital for dancers.Consent should be a foundational aspect of dance education.Professional development for dance teachers is necessary for effective teaching.Check Nicole out at: nicoleperry.org TikTok & Instagram: @intimacychoreofl Order Nicole’s book: https://a.co/d/49cUXuV Momentum Stage: https://www.momentumstage.org/ Submit your questions or topic suggestions! This podcast is for you, let us know what you want to hear more about:  doctordancemompodcast@gmail.com Follow us on social media: Instagram: @drdancemompodcast YouTube: @Dr.DanceMomPodcast TikTok: @doctordancemom Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1aPGZP9TAo/?mibextid=wwXIfr If you’re looking for a dance medicine Physical Therapist in northern New Jersey, check out my practice!  Performers Edge Wellness is located in Sparta, NJ and serves artistic athletes such as dancers, cheerleaders and gymnasts as well as active individuals looking to eliminate pain and sustain an active lifestyle.  Follow:   Instagram: @performersedgewellness Facebook: Performers Edge Wellness TikTok: @performersedgewellness Subscribe to our newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/performersedgewellness/socials-and-quick-sign-up To explore other services we provide, check out our website at www.performersedgewellness.com If you enjoyed this content, please leave us a review and tell your friends!

    1h 8m

  2. JAN 30

    Spotlight On: The Dance Bag & The Dance Bag Convention

    Send us a text Hosted by: Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT Guests: Jessica (Fernandez) Loscalzo Owner: The Dance Bag In this episode:   🌟 Ever wondered what it takes to create a thriving dance convention? 💃 Dive into the journey of Jessica Lascalzo, owner of the Dance Bag, as she shares how she turned a slow retail season into an unforgettable one-day dance event!  Jessica Lascalzo created the Dance Bag Convention to connect young dancers with top-notch instructors while also providing studio owners with direct access to dance product manufacturers. The Dance Bag Convention is more than just a dance event; it’s a celebration of creativity, community, and the love of dance. By focusing on education, quality instruction, and personal connections, Jessica Lascalzo has created a nurturing environment for young dancers to thrive. Whether you are a dancer, a studio owner, or a parent, the Dance Bag Convention offers valuable experiences that resonate long after the event.  Jessica also shares her experiences as a competitive dancer, professional dancer (she was a top 14 finalist on Season 2 of So You Think You Can Dance), dance teacher, and now dance store owner!  Her passion for dance carries through in her customer service and her passion for helping dancers and dance families find the right supplies and shoes for their needs.  We also chat about pointe shoe fitting and how she creates a personalized experience for every dancer.   You can find The Dance Bag on Instagram at: @thedancebagnj Check them out online: https://www.thedancebag.com/ You can register for The Dance Bag convention at: https://www.thedancebag.com/toes Submit your questions or topic suggestions! This podcast is for you, let us know what you want to hear more about:  doctordancemompodcast@gmail.com Follow us on social media: Instagram: @drdancemompodcast YouTube: @Dr.DanceMomPodcast TikTok: @doctordancemom Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1aPGZP9TAo/?mibextid=wwXIfr If you’re looking for a dance medicine Physical Therapist in northern New Jersey, check out my practice!  Performers Edge Wellness is located in Sparta, NJ and serves artistic athletes such as dancers, cheerleaders and gymnasts as well as active individuals looking to eliminate pain and sustain an active lifestyle.  Follow:   Instagram: @performersedgewellness Facebook: Performers Edge Wellness TikTok: @performersedgewellness Subscribe to our newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/performersedgewellness/socials-and-quick-sign-up To explore other services we provide, check out our website at www.performersedgewellness.com Leave us a review on Apple podcasts. Tell your friends about us!!!

    46 min

  3. JAN 23

    Chronicles Of A Very Experienced Dance Teacher & Mom

    Send us a text Hosted by:  Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT Guests: Julie Kidd In this episode:  I chat with Julie Kidd, a multifaceted dance mom, educator, and comedian. Julie shares her journey in the dance world, including her children's experiences in competitive dance and their successes, as well as a devastating family tragedy and the impact it had on her as she continued as a dance parent.  We really had no “agenda” in this conversation, but I wanted to explore the full circle journey of a dancer who has grown through teaching and parenting their own professional dancers.  The conversation explores the evolution of dance education, the impact of social media on dance careers, and the challenges of balancing motherhood with a dance career.  Julie also emphasizes the importance of self-care and mental health for dancers, as well as the significance of teaching dance in different cultural contexts.  We also discuss the multifaceted world of competitive dance, exploring the pressures faced by young dancers, the importance of nutrition, the role of parents, and the evolving nature of dance as a sport. We discuss the need for a healthy studio culture, the impact of competition on dancers' careers, and the significance of building confidence through dance.  Julie shares her experiences as a dance mom and teacher, offering valuable insights and advice for parents navigating the competitive dance landscape. Julie on TikTok: @juliekiddcomedian Julie’s Website: juliekidd.com Jasmine on Insta and TikTok: @jasminemason_ Submit your questions or topic suggestions! This podcast is for you, let us know what you want to hear more about:  doctordancemompodcast@gmail.com Follow us on social media: Instagram: @drdancemompodcast YouTube: @Dr.DanceMomPodcast TikTok: @doctordancemom Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1aPGZP9TAo/?mibextid=wwXIfr If you’re looking for a dance medicine Physical Therapist in northern New Jersey, check out my practice!  Performers Edge Wellness is located in Sparta, NJ and serves artistic athletes such as dancers, cheerleaders and gymnasts as well as active individuals looking to eliminate pain and sustain an active lifestyle.  Follow:   Instagram: @performersedgewellness Facebook: Performers Edge Wellness TikTok: @performersedgewellness Subscribe to our newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/performersedgewellness/socials-and-quick-sign-up To explore other services we provide, check out our website at www.performersedgewellness.com Leave us a review on Apple podcasts. Tell your friends about us!!!

    1h 16m

  4. JAN 16

    Acro In Competitive Dance: A Discussion On Safety and Necessity

    Send us a text Hosted by: Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT Guest: Jason Pickett In this episode: I sat down with Jason Pickett to discuss the role of acro in competitive dance.  We touched on additional topics including the impact of influencer culture and the need for better regulation in competitive dance and dance education.  We explored some of the pressures dancers and parents face regarding acro skills, safer ways to train and the need for informed decision making on an individual basis for dancers seeking higher level skills. Takeaways: Tricks should not be prioritized over great dancing.Dancers face a high risk of injury if trained improperly.Not all dancers can achieve the same skills; individual differences matter.Collegiate dance teams require acro skills, but not all dancers need them.The dance education system lacks regulation and oversight.Continuing education for dance instructors is crucial for dancer safety.Dancers and parents should consider their long-term goals and training needs when deciding whether to pursue higher level skills.Follow Jason on Instagram and TikTok: @heyitspickett   Follow Jason's Podcast, No Starving Artists: (Instagram: @nsaclips) Submit your questions or topic suggestions! This podcast is for you, let us know what you want to hear more about:  doctordancemompodcast@gmail.com Follow us on social media: Instagram: @drdancemompodcast YouTube: @Dr.DanceMomPodcast TikTok: @doctordancemom Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1aPGZP9TAo/?mibextid=wwXIfr If you’re looking for a dance medicine Physical Therapist in northern New Jersey, check out my practice!  Performers Edge Wellness is located in Sparta, NJ and serves artistic athletes such as dancers, cheerleaders and gymnasts as well as active individuals looking to eliminate pain and sustain an active lifestyle.  Follow:   Instagram: @performersedgewellness Facebook: Performers Edge Wellness TikTok: @performersedgewellness Subscribe to our newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/performersedgewellness/socials-and-quick-sign-up To explore other services we provide, check out our website at www.performersedgewellness.com Leave us a review on Apple podcasts. Tell your friends about us!!!

    55 min

  5. JAN 9

    From The Studio To The World Stage: A Dance Dad's Journey

    Send us a text Hosted by: Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT Guests: Mark Scheitzbach In this episode:  I chat with Mark Scheitzbach, a dance dad with a very unique perspective!  Mark is the dad of two male professional dancers, both of which have had incredible roles dancing for major recording artists.   His son Michael just danced with Diana Ross on New Years Rockin’ Eve and has also recently  for Mariah Carey and Blackpink. His other son Kevin was a dancer on the Eras Tour and can be seen in the End of An Era documentary on Disney +. Its safe to say this dad knows a thing or two about the industry, and in this conversation he shares how his boys got to where they are and many pearls of wisdom and advice for dance parents looking to support their dancers’ journey to a professional career in commercial dance. He also shares a bit about his perspective as the parent of a dancer on the Eras tour, including his evolution from casual fan to full blown Swiftie scream singing beside Scott and Andrea Swift in the VIP tent. Whether you’re a dancer, dance parent, or a Swiftie, I think you’ll enjoy our chat and learn a little something. You can follow Mark on TikTok: @PapaFlowXS  or Instagram:  Follow Michael on TikTok: @_michaeltrey and Instagram: @_michaeltrey Follow Kevin on TikTok: @kevinxscheitzbach  and Instagram: @kevin_kid_xs Submit your questions or topic suggestions! This podcast is for you, let us know what you want to hear more about:  doctordancemompodcast@gmail.com Follow us on social media: Instagram: @drdancemompodcast YouTube: @Dr.DanceMomPodcast TikTok: @doctordancemom Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1aPGZP9TAo/?mibextid=wwXIfr If you’re looking for a dance medicine Physical Therapist in northern New Jersey, check out my practice!  Performers Edge Wellness is located in Sparta, NJ and serves artistic athletes such as dancers, cheerleaders and gymnasts as well as active individuals looking to eliminate pain and sustain an active lifestyle.  Follow:   Instagram: @performersedgewellness Facebook: Performers Edge Wellness TikTok: @performersedgewellness Subscribe to our newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/performersedgewellness/socials-and-quick-sign-up To explore other services we provide, check out our website at www.performersedgewellness.com Leave us a review on Apple podcasts. Tell your friends about us!!!

    1h 34m

  6. JAN 2

    Strength Training For Dancers

    Send us a text Hosted by: Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT Guest: Jason Harrison, CSCS  Co-Owner of Present Tense Fitness In this episode, I sit down with Jason Harrison to discuss the critical role of strength training for dancers.  We talk about its importance for injury prevention, performance enhancement and long-term athletic development.  We explore when dancers should start strength training, some of the benefits that can be expected and how to find the right strength or performance coach.  We also touch on traditional beliefs about strength training in the dance community and the importance of listening to your body when strength training. Some key points: Dancers should master basic “human” movement patterns before layering on their dance training. Dancers can feel stronger and more stable after only one strength training session.Strength training is a long term commitment, not a short term plan.Getting “bulky”  is not something dancers need to be afraid of.Cross training for younger dancers can be as simple as normal play or playing other sports.Finding a qualified strength coach is more effective than finding cookie cutter programs online.. Jason can be found on Instagram at: @presenttensefitness Submit your questions or topic suggestions! This podcast is for you, let us know what you want to hear more about:  doctordancemompodcast@gmail.com Follow us on social media: Instagram: @drdancemompodcast YouTube: @Dr.DanceMomPodcast TikTok: @doctordancemom Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1aPGZP9TAo/?mibextid=wwXIfr If you’re looking for a dance medicine Physical Therapist in northern New Jersey, check out my practice!  Performers Edge Wellness is located in Sparta, NJ and serves artistic athletes such as dancers, cheerleaders and gymnasts as well as active individuals looking to eliminate pain and sustain an active lifestyle.  Follow:   Instagram: @performersedgewellness Facebook: Performers Edge Wellness TikTok: @performersedgewellness Subscribe to our newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/performersedgewellness/socials-and-quick-sign-up To explore other services we provide, check out our website at www.performersedgewellness.com Leave us a review on Apple podcasts.= Tell your friends about us!!!

    48 min

  7. 12/26/2025

    Virtual Training and Online Studios

    Send us a text Hosted by: Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT Guests: Haley Fitch of Haley’s Classes In this episode, I chat with Haley Fitch of Haley’s Classes about the evolution of dance education, primarily focusing on virtual studios.   Haley shares her personal journey from starting late in dance to establishing her own online studio, providing instruction to dancers all over the world.  We discuss some of the challenges faced by students in traditional studios, the importance of conditioning and the unique benefits of virtual learning (and who might benefit from it).   Some key points include:  It’s never too late to start or to build something.Virtual studios offer flexibility and accessibility for dancers.Virtual studios offer an alternative to students seeking a new studio environment or looking to take some time off to explore other things.Virtual training can provide detailed feedback and can be a great supplement for the dancer struggling with a skill. You can find Haley on instagram: @haleys.classes26 Submit your questions or topic suggestions! This podcast is for you, let us know what you want to hear more about:  doctordancemompodcast@gmail.com Follow us on social media: Instagram: @drdancemompodcast YouTube: @Dr.DanceMomPodcast TikTok: @doctordancemom Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1aPGZP9TAo/?mibextid=wwXIfr If you’re looking for a dance medicine Physical Therapist in northern New Jersey, check out my practice!  Performers Edge Wellness is located in Sparta, NJ and serves artistic athletes such as dancers, cheerleaders and gymnasts as well as active individuals looking to eliminate pain and sustain an active lifestyle.  Follow:   Instagram: @performersedgewellness Facebook: Performers Edge Wellness TikTok: @performersedgewellness Subscribe to our newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/performersedgewellness/socials-and-quick-sign-up To explore other services we provide, check out our website at www.performersedgewellness.com Leave us a review on Apple podcasts.

    36 min

  8. 12/19/2025

    Studio Culture Part 2: Finding A Positive Path Forward

    Send us a text Hosted by: Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT In this episode: I discuss a bunch of topics regarding what to do if you find yourself in a negative studio environment.  Some of the points I touch on include:  Finding or building safer spaces.  Modeling different leadership, inclusivity and a community that celebrates all dancers regardless of where they are in their dance journey.When to consider moving studios. Looking into a studio that focuses solely on community performances. Taking online classes.  Hybrid model.  Things to look for when seeking out  potential new programs to try. Studio green flagsStudio professionalismHow parents can help create and protect a positive cultureHow dancers can contribute to a healthy studio cultureHow teachers and studio owners can help build positivitySubmit your questions or topic suggestions! This podcast is for you, let us know what you want to hear more about:  doctordancemompodcast@gmail.com Follow us on social media: Instagram: @drdancemompodcast YouTube: @Dr.DanceMomPodcast TikTok: @doctordancemom Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1aPGZP9TAo/?mibextid=wwXIfr If you’re looking for a dance medicine Physical Therapist in northern New Jersey, check out my practice!  Performers Edge Wellness is located in Sparta, NJ and serves artistic athletes such as dancers, cheerleaders and gymnasts as well as active individuals looking to eliminate pain and sustain an active lifestyle.  Follow:   Instagram: @performersedgewellness Facebook: Performers Edge Wellness TikTok: @performersedgewellness Subscribe to our newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/performersedgewellness/socials-and-quick-sign-up To explore other services we provide, check out our website at www.performersedgewellness.com Leave us a review on Apple podcasts. Tell your friends about us!!!

    30 min
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About

Perspectives and stories from my experience as a DPT who specializes in working with artistic athletes and active individuals and my experience navigating the competitive dance world with my daughter.

Information

  • Creator
    Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    15
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Dr. Dance Mom Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Dr. Dance Mom Podcast

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