Abun(dance)

Today we welcome two wonderful sisters, Ernesta and Andra Corvino, who have touched many lives in more ways than just one; they embody their father, Alfredo's legacy by carrying on his spirit and passion for dance in everything that they do. In this episode Kristen and Hannah talk in depth about their successful careers and how it has led them to where they are now. Their energetic warm presence and wisdom make this episode one you won't want to miss!

Kristen and Hannah's former professors from Mercyhurst University, Jennifer McNamara and Matthew Christensen (with special guests--their dogs) are here to discuss their most recent re-staging of the ballet Swan Lake. Their version breaks traditional gender conformities and has a fresh take on what ballet needs in order to survive in the ever changing 21st century.

Today's episode features the incredible Marika Baxter, a physical therapist with a unique approach to wellness. Her work not only focuses on the body's physicality but also the integration of how healing is generated spiritually and emotionally as well. She has worked with many patients but many have been dancers (Kristen being one of them!). We invite you to listen to what she has to say and also check out her offerings at mb1wellness.com!

Kristen and Hannah have a special heart to heart with their dance dads! Paul and Dave discuss what it is like to be fathers of dancers and their experiences over the years. A lot of times we hear about moms involved in dance but today we want to share a dad's perspective. Enjoy a light hearted episode featuring our lovely supportive fathers!

Kristen and Hannah are happy to share their conversation with the wonderful Jess Spinner! As a health, nutrition, and lifestyle coach for dancers, Jess has created a program called "The Whole Dancer" which encapsulates her mission to give dancers the tools they need to be successful. Being a former professional dancer allows her to draw from personal experience in order to help her clients achieve a holistic and healthy approach to their dancing.

Enjoy this week's conversation with the 'iconic' Liam Fitzpatrick. Kristen and Hannah were excited to speak with Liam as they haven't connected much since he graduated from Mercyhurst the year prior to them. If you're ever in the Boston area be sure to seek out one of his classes, they will not disappoint!

Ever heard of "Turning Pointe?" It's book written by former dancer and journalist, Chole Angyal. After having read the book themselves, Kristen and Hannah are honored to have spoken to Chole and hear first hand from her about the process of writing a novel, depicting the truth behind ballet; something that is far more tainted than one might think. We encourage everyone to read this book as it is an extremely informative tool when understanding what is actually going on in the ballet industry. Will the ballet world make a shift in the 21st century in a positive direction, or will it continue its deeply rooted in some cases, negative traditions?

This episode features the incredible Michael Job! Kristen and Hannah learn about Michael's inspiring career which led him to achieve an enormous amount of success. As someone who's trained with world renowned teachers and companies, Michael has a lot of great insight and experience.

Kristen and Hannah speak to Debra about adaptive dance programs and her individual experience as a director. She has an abundance :) of information to share with everyone about why dance is important to all different populations. All bodies can dance! "Just do it!" as Deb would say.