Staying Grounded #7 – Creepy or Courteous
Where’s the line between a friendly tango embrace and an uncomfortable situation? In this candid chat, Amanda, Melody, and Jon share personal stories and practical tips for setting—and respecting—boundaries. From private lessons to crowded milongas, discover why clear communication, awareness, and consent are crucial for keeping tango comfortable, safe, and fun for everyone.

Topics Covered

• Body doubles, cameras, and other ways to ensure safety
• Handling unwanted contact in real-time
• Communicating discomfort without causing drama
• Empowering yourself—and others—to speak up
• Balancing personal freedom and community well-being

Have a story or question on boundaries? Let us know, and follow us to catch future episodes!

Staying Grounded #6 – Rejection in Tango Part 1
Ever felt awkward turning down a dance—or being turned down? In this episode, Amanda, Melody, and Jon tackle the delicate art of “no” in tango. From protecting your body (hello, knee trouble and unexpected surgery!) to honoring musical preferences and personal space, they reveal why rejection on the dance floor often says more about the music, mood, or physical needs than it does about any one person. Tune in for real-life stories, practical tips, and a new perspective on saying “yes,” “no,” or “maybe next time.”

Topics Covered

• Cabaceo vs. verbal invitations: which is more comfortable and why
• Real reasons people turn down dances
• The do’s and don’ts of “chataceo”
• How bodily issues, musical taste, and style preferences shape who we dance with
• Why boundaries—and respect—matter more than ever

Share your own experiences and questions – and don’t forget to follow us so you never miss an episode!

Staying Grounded #5 – Milonga or Money Pit?
Ever wonder why your favorite milonga costs what it does—or if organizers are actually making a profit? In this episode, Amanda, Melody, and Jon break down the real expenses behind tango events, from dance floors and chandeliers to climate control and sound systems. Discover how these hidden costs can stack up fast, why ticket prices might not always cover the bill, and how you can support the organizers who keep your local tango scene thriving.

Highlights

• The surprising price tag on “little” details (like floor extensions and acoustic panels)
• Why climate control matters for both comfort and safety
• Common misconceptions about milonga budgets and ticket prices
• How community support makes a world of difference
• Tips for starting—or improving—your own tango event

Have your own tales of organizing or attending a milonga that felt like a money pit? Share your stories with us! And if you enjoy these behind-the-scenes tango chats, be sure to follow so you never miss an episode.

Staying Grounded #4 – What I Wish I Knew Before I Started
Ever wonder what really matters in your first steps of tango? In this episode, Amanda, Melody, and Jon share the tips, truths, and funny moments they wish they’d known from day one—like how a single compliment can keep you hooked, why boundaries (and extra shirts!) are a must, and how exploring both roles can transform your dance. If you’ve ever felt shy, uncertain, or just plain sweaty on the dance floor, this one’s for you!

Highlights

• The power of sincere praise (and how it can change your entire tango journey)
• When (and how) to say “no” during a dance
• Navigating sweat, awkward embraces, and the infamous “handkerchief incident”
• Why learning to both lead and follow accelerates your growth
• Creating a supportive community that values fun, safety, and mutual respect

Let us know in the comments: what’s one piece of advice you wish you’d had before you started dancing? And if you enjoy these down-to-earth tango talks, follow so you never miss an episode!

Join hosts Amanda, Melody, and Jon for a candid look at how tango can boost confidence, deepen connections, and spark life-changing opportunities. From hilarious mug-hoarding confessions to the powerful role of physical (and social!) contact, discover why tango is so much more than just another dance class. Whether you’re a total beginner or a seasoned tanguero, this episode offers genuine insights on how to stay grounded and keep growing every step of the way.

Topics Covered

• How tango fosters confidence and social ease
• Navigating physical touch in dance
• Surprising benefits of community and shared goals
• Balancing work, family, and tango passions
• Embracing ongoing learning and personal transformation

Join the conversation, share your own tango experiences, and be sure to follow us to stay updated on future episodes!

In this episode of Staying Grounded, hosts Amanda, Melody, and Jon dive into the surprising (and sometimes hilarious) challenges that keep people from jumping into tango—or cause them to quit. From overcoming social awkwardness and close-embrace jitters, to dealing with cost and cultural barriers, this trio unpacks the very real struggles every tango dancer faces at some point. Whether you’re brand-new or years into your tango journey, you’ll find plenty of relatable stories and tips to help you stay inspired and connected on (and off) the dance floor.

What We Cover:

• The fear factor: why some people never take that first step

• Social dynamics and that dreaded “awkward phase” in tango

• Balancing time, money, and the pressure to “get good” fast

• How culture, gender roles, and personal background can influence your dance journey

• How to handle rejection, find your tribe, and keep the joy alive

• Embracing (literally) new connections without feeling uncomfortable or unsafe

Have a private question or story to share? Reach out to us directly via Vienna Tango School’s website or through our personal social channels. We’d love to hear from you.

Thanks for tuning in to Staying Grounded! We’ll see you next time.

Episode 1 - Building a Tango Community | The Journey Begins

In this episode, we dive into the challenges and joys of building a thriving tango community. From navigating post-pandemic shifts to fostering new dancers, we explore what it takes to create a welcoming and sustainable space for tango lovers.

We touch on:

✅ The impact of community attrition and rebuilding efforts

✅ The role of experienced dancers in nurturing newcomers

✅ Balancing passion and business when tango becomes more than just a hobby

✅ Overcoming impostor syndrome and embracing growth

✅ The importance of supporting tango teachers and organizers

This is just the beginning of our journey—join us as we explore what makes tango not just a dance, but a way of life.

💬 What are your biggest challenges in tango? Drop a comment below!

🔔 Subscribe for more discussions on tango culture, experiences, and the business of tango.#Tango #SocialDance #CommunityBuilding #TangoLife #Milonga