PHARTS Podcast

Jenna Kantor
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Arts
  • Updated Biweekly

Performers Happiness in the Arts (PHARTS) Podcast has nothing to do with farting ... unless we choose to talk about it. Hosted by Dr. Jenna Kantor, PHARTS is meant to uplift musical theatre performers as they pursue a long career on the stage. That is not an easy thing to do with the countless rejections at auditions, soul sucking survivor jobs, and waves of anxiety about our next paycheck. We need to bring happiness to ourselves and to each other through integrity, authenticity, love, and, of course, humor. All guests on this podcast are out to help musical theatre performer's thrive. And while we do it, we may laugh at the simple things like the word penis.

  1. That Snap, That Fall, That Pause- Healing from Ankle Sprains in Performers

    2d ago

    That Snap, That Fall, That Pause- Healing from Ankle Sprains in Performers

    You’re mid-combo, nailing your choreography, and suddenly—snap! The floor shifts beneath you, pain shoots up your leg, and your rehearsal dreams hit pause. This week on Performers Happiness in the Arts (PHARTS), Jenna Kantor, PT, DPT—dance medicine specialist and performer—dives deep into one of the most common and frustrating injuries for musical theatre artists: the ankle sprain. Whether you’re a dancer landing from a tour jeté, a singer gliding across stage in character heels, or an actor pivoting during a quick scene change, your ankles are the unsung heroes of your performance. Learn how to spot the difference between a mild twist and a true sprain, why these injuries happen so often onstage, and what the science says about your recovery timeline. We’ll also unpack research showing that up to 70% of dancers experience an ankle injury during their career (Steinberg et al., Tel Aviv University, 2011) and discuss how even minor sprains can affect balance, mobility, and confidence long after the swelling fades. This episode walks you through: The anatomy behind a sprain (why the ATFL is always in the spotlight) What the healing phases really look like for performers How to safely return to turns, jumps, and stage movement Evidence-based prevention tools that keep you performing pain-free ✨ Referenced Research: Steinberg, N., Hershkovitz, I., et al. (2011). Injuries in Dancers: Prevalence and Patterns. Tel Aviv University, Israel. Fong, D. T.-P., et al. (2009). A Systematic Review on Ankle Injury and Sprain in Sports. Sports Medicine, 39(1), 73–94. Garrick, J. G. (2017). Ankle Sprains and Chronic Instability in Athletes. Clinics in Sports Medicine, 36(1), 13–28. 🩰 Want individualized help for a pain-free comeback? Visit www.jennakantorpt.com — Jenna Kantor Physical Therapy (JKPT) is based in Pittsburgh, PA and offers Telehealth services for New York performers. Get personalized guidance for your recovery and performance prep. 🎥 Free YouTube Resources from JKPT: Build your ankle strength and mobility with these playlists: Dance Injury Prevention Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLJKKPT-DanceInjuryPrevention Ankle Strength & Stability Exercises: https://www.youtube.com/@jennakantorphysicaltherapy/playlists Performer Warm-Up & Recovery Routines: https://www.youtube.com/@jennakantorphysicaltherapy/playlists

    10 min
  2. Healing the Performer’s Ankle Fracture

    Jun 2

    Healing the Performer’s Ankle Fracture

    In this episode of Performers Happiness in the Arts (PHARTS), host Dr. Jenna Kantor, PT, DPT, performer and dance medicine specialist, takes you behind the curtain of one of the most common — and emotionally challenging — injuries in the performing arts: the ankle fracture. From the heartbreaking “crack” mid-performance to the long road back to dancing, singing, and acting at full strength, Jenna dives into the science, the rehab, and the artistry of recovery. You’ll learn: ✨ Why dancers, singers, and actors are all at risk for ankle fractures 🩺 How to recognize when it’s more than a sprain 💃 The staged approach to performer-specific rehab 🎬 Functional training that prepares you to return to the spotlight safely 🎧 Perfect for: musical theatre performers, students, medical professionals in the performing arts, and anyone who’s ever had to say, “the show must go on” — even through injury. Need individualized care for your ankle injury or performing pain? ➡️ Visit Jenna Kantor Physical Therapy (JKPT) — based in Pittsburgh, PA, offering Telehealth for New York performers — where you’ll receive expert, performer-focused rehab and guidance for healthy, pain-free movement. 🎥 Free YouTube Resources: 🩰 Dance Injury Prevention Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL4vS6lUiyc6JtVYx7qNRuHEbEOVHpmRZV 🎤 Singer Strength & Mobility Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL4vS6lUiyc6IqZ1lK0rUMjZrQrX1yV2AB 🎭 Actor Conditioning & Recovery Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL4vS6lUiyc6Kt2Krqjfnz0KjKzP7FqFfB 📚 Referenced Studies: Lee et al., Performing Arts Medicine Association, New York, 2021 Peters et al., University of Sydney, 2019 Johnson et al., University of London, 2022 #PHARTSPodcast #JennaKantorPT #MusicalTheatreWellness #AnkleFractureRecovery #DanceMedicine #PerformerRehab #PerformerHealth #JKPT #DancePhysicalTherapy

    9 min
  3. How Physical Therapy Enhances Performer Health

    May 26

    How Physical Therapy Enhances Performer Health

    In this episode of the PHARTs Podcast, we explore the vital role physical therapy plays in enhancing the health, longevity, and performance capacity of artists across disciplines. Physical therapy isn’t just about recovering from injuries—it’s a proactive strategy that supports performers in optimizing movement, preventing injuries, improving resilience, and sustaining long, thriving careers in dance, theater, music, and beyond. We break down how targeted PT interventions—such as biomechanical assessment, movement retraining, strength and flexibility programming, and performance-specific conditioning—can help performers move more efficiently and perform with confidence. Whether you’re managing chronic pain, returning from injury, or seeking ways to refine technique and stamina, this episode sheds light on how physical therapy enhances both physical and artistic expression.

    9 min
  4. Pilates Transforming the Performance Game

    May 19

    Pilates Transforming the Performance Game

    Pilates is no longer just a cross-training option—it’s a performance-changing tool. In this episode of the Performers Happiness in the Arts (PHARTs) Podcast, we explore how Pilates is transforming the way performers train, rehabilitate, and sustain their careers. From improved core integration and alignment to injury prevention, breath control, and longevity on stage, Pilates has become a foundational practice for dancers, actors, singers, and musicians alike. We break down why Pilates works so well for performers, how it supports both physical and mental resilience, and how it bridges the gap between rehabilitation and peak performance. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, preparing for auditions, or looking to move more efficiently and confidently, this episode highlights why Pilates has earned its place in the performing arts world. 🎭 Ideal for dancers, singers, actors, musicians, educators, and healthcare professionals working in the arts.

    9 min
  5. The Movement That Hurts- AC Joint Injuries in Performers

    May 12

    The Movement That Hurts- AC Joint Injuries in Performers

    AC joint injuries can quietly sabotage your performance, from dancers lifting arms overhead, actors performing stage combat, to singers holding props or standing for extended periods. In this episode of Performers Happiness in the Arts (PHARTS), Jenna Kantor, PT, DPT, dance medicine specialist and performer, explains how to identify, treat, and prevent AC joint injuries. Topics covered include: Prevalence in performers: 8–12% of dancers, 10–15% of actors, and 7–10% of singers (Micheli et al., Boston, 2016; Fryer, Australia, 2018; Ackermann et al., Sydney, 2017) Traumatic vs. overuse injuries Physical therapy strategies: manual therapy, scapular and rotator cuff strengthening, mobility restoration, and stage-specific return-to-dance training Prevention tips to maintain healthy, expressive arm lines 🩰 Need individualized care? Visit Jenna Kantor Physical Therapy for stage-ready assessment and treatment. Serving Pittsburgh, PA and New York performers via Telehealth. 🎥 Free YouTube Playlists for performer wellness: Dancer Injury Prevention Singer Posture and Breathing Tips Actor Mobility and Stage Stamina 🎭 Don’t let shoulder pain limit your artistry—recover, strengthen, and perform at your best!

    9 min
  6. A Performer’s Pain - Achilles Tendinopathy

    May 5

    A Performer’s Pain - Achilles Tendinopathy

    Achilles tendinopathy is the performer’s silent antagonist—creeping up mid-leap, in chase scenes, or just while standing in character shoes. In this episode of Performers Happiness in the Arts (PHARTS), Jenna Kantor, PT, DPT, dance medicine specialist and performer, walks dancers, singers, actors, and musicians through understanding, treating, and preventing Achilles tendon pain. You’ll learn: Why 12% of dancers, 15–18% of actors, and 10% of singers experience Achilles issues (Hawkins & Beyer, London, 2019; Ackermann et al., Sydney, 2017) How overuse, footwear, and rehearsal patterns contribute to tendon stress Physical therapy strategies including eccentric strengthening, mobility work, and performance-specific training Prevention tips to keep your tendon healthy for years of performing 🩰 Need individualized care? Visit Jenna Kantor Physical Therapy —serving Pittsburgh, PA and New York performers via Telehealth. 🎥 FREE YouTube Resources: Dancer Injury Prevention Singer Posture and Breathing Tips Actor Mobility and Stage Stamina 🎭 Don’t let your Achilles steal the show—heal, strengthen, and return to the stage pain-free!

    9 min
  7. The Ache That Steals the Spotlight

    Apr 28

    The Ache That Steals the Spotlight

    Episode Title: Act I: The Ache That Steals the Spotlight Low back pain can silence your artistry—but it doesn’t have to steal your spotlight. In this episode of Performers Happiness in the Arts (PHARTS), Jenna Kantor, PT, DPT—dance medicine specialist, performer, and founder of Jenna Kantor Physical Therapy (JKPT)—dives into the world of low back pain for dancers, singers, and actors. You’ll hear about: Why 67% of dancers, 54% of singers, and 52% of actors experience low back pain (Sweeney & McAuley, University of Hertfordshire, UK, 2016; Angadi et al., Ohio State University, 2019; Fryer, Australia, 2018) How technique habits, posture, and overuse lead to pain The role of performing arts physical therapy in recovery and prevention (Smith et al., Journal of Dance Medicine & Science, NYC, 2021) How guided movement can speed recovery by 30% (O’Sullivan et al., British Journal of Sports Medicine, 2020) Whether you’re mastering Hamilton choreography, belting out Defying Gravity, or performing an intense monologue in Hadestown, this episode gives you the tools to stay strong, pain-free, and in the spotlight. 🩰 Need personalized care? Visit www.jennakantorpt.com to connect with Jenna Kantor Physical Therapy—serving performers in Pittsburgh, PA and New York (via Telehealth). 🎥 Free Resources on YouTube: Dancer Injury Prevention Singer Posture and Breathing Tips Actor Mobility and Stage Stamina 🎭 Because recovery isn’t the end of your story—it’s your encore.

    10 min
  8. Creating Trans-Inclusive Care in Performing Arts Physical Therapy

    Apr 21

    Creating Trans-Inclusive Care in Performing Arts Physical Therapy

    How can performing arts medicine better support trans and gender-diverse performers? In this episode of The Performers Happiness in the Arts Podcast (Pharts Podcast), host Jenna Kantor — performer and physical therapist — explores what true trans-inclusive care looks like in physical therapy and the performing arts world. Jenna discusses how healthcare providers can affirm identity from the first interaction, adapt care for hormone therapy and surgery recovery, and create safer, more empowering spaces for every performer. You’ll also learn practical tips for trans and nonbinary performers on finding supportive, knowledgeable providers who understand both your art and your body. Because inclusivity isn’t just good healthcare — it’s good artistry. 🎧 Listen now — and visit jennakantorpt.com for free performer wellness tools and inclusive health resources from a PT who understands the performer’s journey, identity, and craft.

    9 min
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About

Performers Happiness in the Arts (PHARTS) Podcast has nothing to do with farting ... unless we choose to talk about it. Hosted by Dr. Jenna Kantor, PHARTS is meant to uplift musical theatre performers as they pursue a long career on the stage. That is not an easy thing to do with the countless rejections at auditions, soul sucking survivor jobs, and waves of anxiety about our next paycheck. We need to bring happiness to ourselves and to each other through integrity, authenticity, love, and, of course, humor. All guests on this podcast are out to help musical theatre performer's thrive. And while we do it, we may laugh at the simple things like the word penis.

Information

  • Creator
    Jenna Kantor
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    308
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved
  • Show Website
    PHARTS Podcast