This month at FCBDU, we're exploring the powerful theme of mindfulness—and we’re thrilled to welcome a new instructor whose teaching beautifully embodies this concept.

In this episode, you’ll meet Philippa, the newest member of the FCBDU teaching team. Philippa brings a grounded and thoughtful presence to her dance practice, and her new class series invites students to explore what it really means to move with intention and awareness.

We’ll talk about:

• What mindfulness means in the context of FCBD® Style
• How to stay present in movement, even during fast-paced improvisation
• Philippa’s personal dance journey and what inspires her
• The importance of breath, stillness, and sensation in building a deeper connection to your practice

Whether you’re brand new to mindfulness or looking to deepen your awareness in dance, this conversation will inspire you to tune in, slow down, and reconnect with the joy of simply being in motion.

In this episode, we’re thrilled to introduce you to FCBDU’s newest instructor, Gesche Hohner—a psychologist, Behavior Therapist, and seasoned dancer who has been weaving the science of psychology into dance workshops for the past seven years. Learn more about her: https://courses.fcbdu.com/p/geschehohner

Join us as we explore the fascinating connection between the nervous system, stage fright, and performance anxiety. Gesche shares valuable insights and practical tools for understanding what's happening in our bodies when the spotlight hits—and how to work with those sensations instead of against them. Whether you're a seasoned performer or just starting out, this conversation will leave you feeling seen, supported, and more confident in your stage presence.

Take her class "Stage Fright, Performance Anxiety and the Nervous System" on FcbdU: https://courses.fcbdu.com/p/performanceanxietyandnervousystem

Follow her Grouding FCBD®Style Flow: https://courses.fcbdu.com/p/groundingfolkflow

In this episode, we explore the art of smooth and intentional transitions in dance—those subtle yet powerful moments that elevate your movement from mechanical to mesmerizing. 

Plus, we’re thrilled to introduce Virginia Hojas, our newest FCBD® Style instructor! She shares insights from her class series Practice ‘Til You Make It, offering tips on refining your transitions, building confidence, and finding fluidity in your dance. 

Whether you're a student or an instructor, this conversation will inspire you to embrace the in-between moments of movement.

Dance is more than just movement—it's about the energy we share with others, the way we synchronize, and the unspoken bond that forms when we dance together.

In this session we explore the magic of connection through dance, focusing on the beauty of Duets and Dueling Duets.

Listen in for practical tips, uplifting stories, and a renewed sense of unity as we dive into the joy of dancing with others, this episode will leave you feeling inspired and ready to embrace the art of connection.

What would it feel like to truly embrace yourself, not just as a dancer but as a whole person? In this episode, we’re joined by Taisa, a coach and advocate for self-love, self-compassion, and empowerment. Taisa’s work centers on helping dancers unlock their fullest potential by transforming the way they see themselves—from overcoming self-doubt to finding strength in vulnerability.

Together, we dive into the unique pressures dancers face, the power of self-compassion in navigating those challenges, and practical ways to cultivate self-love in your practice and beyond. Taisa also shares insights from her brand-new masterclass, a transformative resource designed to help you connect with yourself and your dance on a deeper level.

Whether you’re striving for confidence, looking to let go of perfectionism, or simply needing a reminder of your own worth, this conversation will leave you inspired, uplifted, and ready to take the next step on your journey of self-empowerment.

Tune in, and let this episode be the first step toward dancing with greater joy, freedom, and love for yourself.

Join us for an extraordinary conversation with Carolena Nericcio, the founder of FCBD® Style, and DeAnna Freeman, founder of FCBD®University, as they explore the journey of this iconic dance form.

From its humble beginnings to its global influence, hear Carolena reflect on her legacy and reveal her thoughts on stepping into retirement. Discover how DeAnna plans to honor the roots of FCBD® Style while charting a bold, creative future for dancers and instructors worldwide.

This episode offers a fascinating look at the evolution of a movement that unites a global community. Don’t miss this inspiring episode filled with stories, insights, and a shared passion for preserving and growing the art of FCBD® Style.

In this episode, we explore the rich influence of Flamenco on FatChanceBellyDance® Style. From the powerful posture and dramatic arm movements to the rhythmic complexity and emotional expression, Flamenco has deeply shaped the evolution of FCBD®.

Join special guest Haima Garcia, a certified studio from Spain and prior student of the professional flamenco school “Marta de la Vega” in Madrid, and DeAnna, as we dive into the historical connections, movement parallels, and even costuming inspirations that bridge these two art forms. 

Whether you're a dancer or an enthusiast, this episode will bring you new knowledge on the topic and inspire you to bring a little Flamenco fire into your practice.

Dance flow with Haima FREE on fcbdU.com: courses.fcbdu.com/p/flamencoflow

Haima also created a lovely Flamenco playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7Cx...

Learn more about Haima and follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haimalotus?...

A Pathway to Mental, Physical, and Emotional Well-Being with DeAnna Freeman and Super Beth

In this episode, we dive into the transformative power of FCBD®Style as a holistic healing tool for the mind, body, and soul. Discover how movement can reduce stress, improve mental clarity, and unlock emotional release, all while boosting physical health.

Join cancer survivors (thrivers) DeAnna and Beth as they share inspiring stories of healing, and offer tips to get you moving toward a healthier, more joyful life!

In this episode, we begin an ongoing series into the cultural sources that shape the dynamic art of FatChanceBellyDance®. Join us as we sit down with Nawarra, a seasoned dancer and Moroccan-born cultural educator, to explore how we can enrich our dance, and our lives, by learning more about the inspirations’ traditional roots.

Nawarra shares her insights on the significance of understanding cultural sources in bellydance, highlighting the importance of respect, identity, research and reverence for the diverse traditions found throughout Morocco. She discusses the challenges and rewards of incorporating cultural elements into fusion dance forms, offering valuable advice for dancers seeking to deepen their connection to the dance.

 Through Nawarra's experiences and expertise, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural richness that underpins FatChanceBellyDance®Style and many other bellydance styles. 

 Join us as on a cultural exploration where respect, tradition, and diversity is celebrated in every step.

Learn more about Nawarra and take her classes on fcbdu:
https://courses.fcbdu.com/p/nawarra

Join one of Nawarra's cultural dance holidays to Morocco:
Magreb Dance Congress: https://facebook.com/events/s/maghreb-dance-congress-essaoui/325616529955083/

Funoon Dance Camp: https://facebook.com/events/s/funoon-dance-camp-tetouane-mor/1813565499101673/

Join us in this inspiring episode as we delve into the art of crafting a FCBD®Style solo with the incredibly talented Devi Mamak. Devi will share her insights, tips, and creative process for designing captivating solo performances. From finding inspiration to selecting music, movements, and costuming, Devi’s expertise and background in dance, music, and solo creation will motivate you to take the big leap for your next performance.

Take Devi's new course, The FCBD®Style Drum Solo with Devi: Concepts and Choreography for an Impactful Performance
https://courses.fcbdu.com/p/fcbdstyledrumsolowithdevi

Purchase her music and digital downloads:
https://caravandancecompany.com.au/shop/