The Dr. Dance Mom Podcast

Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT
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  • PERFORMING ARTS

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.

Episodes

  1. 2D AGO

    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

  2. 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

  3. 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

  4. 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

  5. 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
  6. Studio Culture Part 1: Red Flags, Mean Girls & Misaligned Values

    12/12/2025

    Studio Culture Part 1: Red Flags, Mean Girls & Misaligned Values

    Send us a text Hosted by: Dr. Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT Guests: Angel Miller Ever find yourself questioning if your child’s dance studio is safe?  If the environment is chipping away their love for dance?   I am joined in this episode by my friend; former competitive dancer, current competitive dance mom and fitness instructor Angel Miller.  We discuss what a negative studio culture looks like and the long term effects it can have on your dancer.  We have a very honest discussion about some of the experiences dancers and parents have that leave them wondering if they are in the right place, and signs that it may be time to move on.   We feel that having this conversation in an open forum is important to validate the experiences of many dancers and parents and to inspire others to advocate for their dancers.   Let’s continue the conversation! 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 Submit your questions or topic suggestions! This podcast is for you, let us know what you want to hear more about:  doctordancemompodcast@gmail.com 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 today's episode, please leave us a review on Apple podcasts and tell your friends about us!

    57 min

  7. 12/01/2025

    Spotlight On: "Unbound" Ballet Documentary

    Send us a text Hosted by: Dr. Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT Guests: John English, co-director of “Unbound” In this episode: I sat down with John English from OTOXO Productions to chat about “Unbound”, a ground breaking documentary about a group of professional ballet dancers at Ballet de Barcelona. What I found in my conversation with this very passionate co-director is that this isn’t just another ballet documentary.  This film addresses some of the deepest traumas in professional dance and gives a voice to a group of dancers who have come through them, found healing in their own time and created a place where the stereotypes and stigmas are shattered and everyone is accepted. It comes across very clearly that John has so much passion for this work and there are some incredibly inspiring stories and themes packed into this 90 minute film.  As he tells the stories of how this film came together it’s clear that one of the goals is to give a voice not just to the dancers featured, but dancers around the world who may have experienced similar things.   The hope is for change in the community, and “Unbound” has incredible potential.   “Unbound” releases for worldwide streaming on Tuesday, December 2 on Amazon and Apple TV. You can watch the trailer here: https://www.otoxoproductions.com/unbound/ Follow them on instagram: @unbound_ballerinas_documentary Submit your questions or topic suggestions! This podcast is for you, let us know what you want to hear more about:  doctordancemompodcast@gmail.comFollow 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!!!

    45 min

  8. 11/27/2025

    Spotlight On: Pulze Athletic Wear

    Send us a text Hosted by: Dr. Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT Guests: Angie McFarland, CEO & Founder of Pulze Athletic Wear Looking for dancewear and athletic wear that is not only cute, but functional?  Pulze Athletic Wear breaks boundaries, offering period protection and built in bra support right in your dance or athletic wear! In this episode I sit down with the CEO and founder Angie McFarland to talk about what inspired her to create this brand, her journey in creating these products and how she is giving back through her brand.  Check out her website and shop products at www.pulzeshop.com Follow her on Facebook, Instagram and Tiktok @pulzeshop 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.

    46 min

  9. 11/27/2025

    Spotlight On: Covet Dance

    Send us a text Hosted by: Dr. Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT Guests: Sharene (Founder/Owner of Covet Dance) In this episode we’ll talk to the woman behind some of the products you see in your local dance store.  We’ll hear the story behind how she got started making dance related products and her journey into hundreds of retail stores around the world.   She’ll also showcase some of her favorite/best selling products that you can shop for your dancer this holiday season! Join me as we discover the story behind Covet Dance and find out what must have items you should be putting under the tree for your dancers this holiday season! You can shop the products in the podcast here: https://www.covetdance.com Pas de Chat tee: https://covetdance.com/collections/best-sellers/products/pas-de-chat-vintage-tee Dancer Recovery Set: https://covetdance.com/collections/self-care/products/dancer-recovery-set Spotlight Sparkle Spray: https://covetdance.com/collections/self-care/products/spotlight-sparkle-spray DeFEET daFUNK feet spray: https://covetdance.com/collections/self-care/products/defeet-da-funk-deodorizing-foot-and-shoe-spritz-set-of-6 After dance candle:  https://covetdance.com/collections/self-care/products/after-dance-candle Slick back kit: https://covetdance.com/collections/self-care/products/covet-slickback-stick 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 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 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!!!

    15 min

  10. 11/26/2025

    Holiday Shopping For Your Dancer

    Send us a text Hosted by: Dr. Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT Wondering what to get your dancer for the holidays?  Look no further!  This episode is packed full of suggestions that will help you get your dancer checked off your shopping list in no time! From dance duffels to stocking stuffers, this episode is packed full of suggestions to help you with ideas, JUST IN TIME for Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday! You can access the full list of products shown (links provided) in this google doc 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

    44 min

  11. 11/14/2025

    Ep 1: Get To Know Your Host

    Send us a text Hosted by: Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT In this first episode you’ll meet and get to know the host! You’ll hear a bit about Dr. Tara’s background, roots in the arts and some insight into her “why”.    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 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 Please leave us a review or rating to support our grassroots podcast! Tell your friends about us!!!  Share our content and pass on information you think will be helpful to someone else!

    13 min

  12. 11/06/2025

    Trailer

    Send us a text Welcome to the Dr. Dance Mom podcast!  Give our trailer a listen while we prepare to launch full episodes in the next 2-4 weeks.   Follow us on Instagram, YouTube  and email us at doctordancemompodcast@gmail.com with your listener questions and topic suggestions!

    2 min

Trailer

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
    12
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Dr. Dance Mom Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Dr. Dance Mom Podcast