Dance Dad With John Corella

Charm Spencer opens up about tour life - the late nights, the travel, and the mindset that keeps him grounded while performing on The Boy Is Mine Tour with Brandy and Monica. In this episode, he joins John Corella to talk about learning to move between masculine and feminine energy onstage and how that balance shapes both his artistry and his identity.   He reflects on rejection, growth, and humility with a kind of honesty that pulls you in. How do you stay true to yourself when every role asks for something different? How do you keep your confidence in an industry built on constant change?   Charm’s story connects discipline with self-acceptance and reminds dancers that authenticity is its own kind of power. And for anyone who grew up watching Dance Moms, he shows how those early lessons in adaptability and storytelling still echo through every performance today.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Behind the Scenes of The Boy Is Mine Tour 06:00 Charm Spencer’s Journey to Becoming a Professional Dancer 09:03 Balancing Masculine and Feminine Energy in Dance 11:57 Breakthrough Auditions and Career Lessons 15:05 A Real Look at Tour Life 47:59 Handling Criticism and Protecting Your Energy 49:47 What Touring Dancers Teach Each Other 54:08 Dance Moms and Early Influences Connect with Charm Spencer: Follow Charm on Instagram    Connect with John Corella: Follow Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram Follow John on Instagram Join Dance Dad with John Corella on Patreon Visit John Corella’s website Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

When former Olympian Melissa Marlowe talks about the 1988 Olympic controversy and the bronze medal being taken away, she doesn’t just revisit a headline; she relives what it felt like to stand on the edge of history and have it quietly rewritten overnight. How does someone keep competing after that? What carries an athlete through when the spotlight fades but the memory doesn’t?    As she joins John Corella in this episode, Melissa reflects on the discipline, artistry, and strength that defined her career, from the power in her legs and feet to the mindset that helped her face pressure and perfectionism. She shares how her coaches’ mix of kindness and toughness shaped her longevity in a sport built on precision and risk, and how she’s come to measure success in ways that last longer than medals.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Welcome to Dance Dad and Guest Intro 01:47 Early Ballet Roots and Natural Flexibility 05:05 Signature Lines: The Power of Legs and Feet 06:35 Beating Nerves with Sports Psychology 21:39 The Reality of Olympic Pressure: Was It Worth It 23:40 1988 Olympic Controversy: Bronze Medal Being Taken Away 45:22 Competing in the Cold War: USA vs USSR 51:09 Hard but Kind Coaching and Athlete Longevity 59:12 Scholarships, Overtraining, and Choosing Longevity 01:00:42 Life After the Olympics: Movement, Motherhood, Meaning   Connect with Melissa Marlowe: Connect with Melissa on Instagram   Connect with John Corella: Follow Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram Follow John on Instagram Join Dance Dad with John Corella on Patreon Visit John Corella’s website Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

What does it take to hit 10 turns with confidence? For Lynnrae Hiers Serra, it comes down to repetition, mechanics, and belief - the same mix that’s helped dancers of every level find their balance and push past limits.   John Corella talks with Lynnrae, known to many as “The Turn Coach,” about how her journey started at the JPD dance studio under her mentor Terry Schulke and how that experience shaped her lifelong fascination with precision and progress. She explains why mastering turns isn’t about perfection but about patience, consistency, and learning how your body works. What happens when a dancer stops chasing technique and starts trusting the process instead?   Lynnrae also shares tips for teachers and parents who want to help dancers grow without pressure, along with the story behind TurnCoach Enterprises and her mission to make effective turn training accessible to anyone. This episode looks at the intersection of art, discipline, and belief, and how small shifts in mindset can lead to those moments when everything clicks and the turns finally stick.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Welcome to Dance Dad and Episode Focus on Turns 01:10 Meet The Turn Coach and Motto “I Can Make Anybody Turn” 04:15 JPD Dance Studio Roots and Mentor Terry Schulke 06:25 The Turn Coach Method Progression and 10 Turns System 11:55 Challenging Tradition: Why Mechanics Come Before Perfection 13:59 What Actually Makes You Turn: Practical Mechanics That Work 19:50 TurnCoach Enterprises: Scaling a 700 Person Waitlist 26:40 Most Common Mistake: Fix Your Prep to Unlock More Rotations 33:20 Every Body Can Turn: Mindset, Confidence, and Inclusive Coaching 44:50 Healthy Body Image in Dance: Language Teachers Should Avoid   Connect with Lynnrae Hiers Serra: Visit The Turn Coach Website Follow Lynnrae on Instagram   Connect with John Corella: Follow Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram Follow John on Instagram Join Dance Dad with John Corella on Patreon Visit John Corella’s website Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Amanda LaCount proves that plus size dancers belong center stage, sharing how her journey, her advocacy, and the support of Dance Mom Jill are reshaping the dance community.    A professional dancer who has performed with Lady Gaga, Rihanna, JLo, and Katy Perry, Amanda joins John Corella to challenge the stereotypes that have long defined the industry. She reveals how media-driven beauty standards create barriers, why she is determined to advocate for greater inclusivity, and how she built the confidence to push back against an environment that often resists change.    Amanda credits much of her boldness to Dance Mom Jill’s unwavering advocacy and explains why having someone in your corner can make all the difference. From speaking openly about rejection and resilience to highlighting the responsibility of representation, Amanda shows how dancers of every body type can thrive when they are given safe, supportive spaces to express their art.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction to Amanda LaCount on Dance Dad 07:43 Every Body Is a Dancer’s Body: Breaking Stereotypes 11:32 Finding Boldness Through Dance Mom Jill’s Advocacy 24:32 Growing Up Plus Size in Dance Competitions 30:42 How Studios and Conventions Can Support Plus Size Dancers 42:03 Performing in Rihanna’s Savage X Fenty Show 45:33 Lessons From Working With Lady Gaga and Katy Perry 47:37 Teaching Dance and Creating Inclusive Spaces 56:23 Inclusivity vs. Stereotypes in Casting 01:00:27 Being the Role Model Amanda Never Had   Connect with Amanda LaCount: Follow Amanda on Instagram Visit Amanda’s website   Connect with John Corella: Follow Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram Follow John on Instagram Join Dance Dad with John Corella on Patreon Visit John Corella’s website Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Cheryl Baxter’s very first job as a young dancer put her on the set of Xanadu with Olivia Newton-John, Gene Kelly, and Kenny Ortega. What does it feel like to step into a world like that straight out of a small town in Wisconsin? And how do you carry lessons from legends into a career that lasts for decades?    Joining John Corella in this episode, Cheryl reflects on the magic of Xanadu, the influence of Gene Kelly’s ease and Olivia Newton-John’s authenticity, and the ways she has kept her career alive through every crossover - from film and television to teaching and even TikTok!   Cheryl’s story invites you to think about resilience, reinvention, and the joy that comes from saying yes to new stages of life in dance.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Dance Dad Introduction 03:20 Making Xanadu With Olivia Newton-John and Gene Kelly 06:00 Gene Kelly’s On Set Lesson: Relax and Have Fun 10:30 Meeting Olivia Newton-John and Early Xanadu Memories 16:10 Why Xanadu Became a Cult Classic 28:30 Reinvention and Career Crossover From Stage to TikTok 49:30 Filming Magic on Xanadu: Steadicam, Long Days, Big Finale 57:50 Stay Bold: Resilience and Reinvention in Dance    Connect with Cheryl Baxter: Follow Cheryl on Instagram   Connect with John Corella: Follow Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram Follow John on Instagram Join Dance Dad with John Corella on Patreon John Corella Website Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Trigger Warning: This episode contains conversations about conversion therapy, psychological abuse, and self-harm. We share these stories to raise awareness and foster healing, but we recognize they may be difficult to hear. Please listen with care and step away if you need to. If you or someone you know is struggling, resources like The Trevor Project (1-866-488-7386) are available to provide support.   Conversion therapy survivor Syre Klenke speaks openly about the damaging impact of being forced into years of so-called “treatment” as a teenager and the depression that followed, while also showing how authenticity and community became a way forward. Joining John Corella, Syre recalls the shock of being taken to a conversion therapy conference under the guise of a family outing, the gaslighting he endured from both licensed therapists and church leaders, and the loss of everyday teenage milestones like dating and prom. These stories reveal how conversion therapy robs young people of their sense of safety and self, leaving scars that last well into adulthood. Yet Syre also reflects on the resilience it takes to survive, the courage to tell the truth, and the importance of building spaces where no one has to hide who they are. This episode confronts the damaging reality of conversion therapy while reminding us that healing is possible through honesty, courage, and community.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Welcome to Dance Dad with John Corella 01:26 Meet Syre Klenke: Comedian, Activist, Conversion Therapy Survivor 04:46 What Conversion Therapy Really Means and Why It’s Damaging 07:58 Surviving Four Years of Forced Conversion Therapy 12:05 Losing High School Milestones and Identity 18:43 The Most Traumatizing Moments of Conversion Therapy 27:49 Abuse and Self-Harm Tactics Inside Conversion Therapy 29:29 Mental Health Struggles and Depression Afterward 34:33 Religion, Patriarchy, and Gender Roles in Conversion Therapy 39:09 Why Survivor Stories Must Be Told 42:14 Conversion Therapy in Politics and the Supreme Court Case 01:04:30 The Boldest Act: Sharing Your Story Authentically   Connect with Syre Klenke: Instagram   Connect with John Corella: Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram John Corella on Instagram Patreon Website Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Labor Day becomes a reminder that creativity and connection grow stronger when we pause, take breaks, and allow ourselves to just be.   John Corella takes this episode in a different direction, stepping back from the usual focus on dance and LGBTQ issues to reflect on what Labor Day really represents. Born out of union protests, the holiday was meant as a pause from constant work and a way to honor those who fought for fair treatment. How often do we give ourselves that same pause in our own lives? What happens when we step away from the noise of social media or the pull of endless tasks and simply let ourselves be present?    John shares how these small choices – to rest, to quiet the distractions, to notice the moment – make it easier to find presence on stage, in creativity, and in life. He also takes time to thank listeners and celebrate milestones in the Dance Dad community, reminding us that growth comes from more than effort alone. As summer comes to a close, this episode invites you to see Labor Day as a chance to recharge, reflect, and practice the art of being.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Labor Day Reflections 01:24 The Power of Breaks and Taking Time Off 03:33 Practicing Presence in Daily Life 05:09 End of Summer and Closing Gratitude   Links Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram John Corella on Instagram Patreon Website Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Dance conventions can be magical or a ticking time bomb, and John Corella is here to spill the tea on which is which.   This episode isn’t just a summer recap, but a real conversation about what’s happening in the dance world. John shares his experience with Velocity. He opens up about his reunion with Dance Moms alum Melissa Gisoni and what it meant to see her step into her voice after all these years. There’s also a moment with Beyonce’s “dance dad” Frank Gatson that will make you think about how much real mentorship matters in this industry.    How do we choose where to invest our time, energy, and money? Are we supporting people who build safe spaces or enabling the same toxic patterns? John asks these questions out loud and invites you to do the same.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Safe Space and Podcast Goals 01:14 Dance Moms Reunion with Melissa Gissone 06:07 Velocity’s Inclusivity and Accountability 09:09 Behind the Scenes of Beyonce’s Show with Frank Gatson 10:12 Calling for Safe and Accountable Dance Spaces 12:25 Why Dancers and Dance Parents Need to Take Breaks   Links Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram John on Instagram Patreon YouTube  Website Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Dance Moms director Jimmy Chriss shares what really happened behind the scenes, and why protecting kids, honoring joy, and telling the truth still matter in reality TV.   Jimmy joins John Corella to talk about his journey from music videos and commercials to the world of Dance Moms. He breaks down what it actually means to direct a reality show where real people, real emotions, and real stakes are always in play.   What does it feel like to protect kids on set while still delivering what people want? How do you stay grounded when the cameras never stop rolling? Jimmy answers these questions with the honesty of someone who’s lived it, through long days, heated moments, and years of experience. He also opens up about racism in the industry and why representation behind the scenes matters just as much as it does on camera. The conversation takes a heartfelt turn when Jimmy shares stories about his wife, her quiet love for the show, the strength she showed during her illness, and how her legacy continues to shape the way he moves through the world.   This episode is a reminder that behind every show are real people, and that the best stories come from those who lead with care.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Jimmy Chriss on Directing Dance Moms 02:38 From Music Videos to Reality TV 07:21 What It Really Means to Direct a Reality Show 09:27 Behind the Chaos of Dance Moms 19:41 Why Dance Moms Still Resonates 25:15 The Show’s Impact on Dance Culture 29:52 Personal Reflections on Loss and His Wife 34:21 Protecting Kids in Reality TV 37:33 How Reality TV Has Changed 42:20 Racism and Representation Behind the Camera 48:01 Choosing Joy, Even in Grief   Links Connect with Jimmy Chriss: https://www.instagram.com/the_real_jimmy_jay_chriss/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmy-jay-chriss-24b7517b/   Connect with John Corella: Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dancedadwithjohncorella/ John on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/john_corella/ Patreon: https://patreon.com/TheonlyDanceDadwithJohnCorella Website: johncorella.net Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Three dance dads pull back the curtain on competitions, parenting in a female-dominated world, and the unexpected friendships that keep them coming back.   In this episode, John Corella brings together Jason, David, and Nick, who are three longtime dance dads who’ve spent years supporting their daughters through the highs and lows of competitive dance. What begins as a casual conversation over Mickey’s beers quickly opens into something more honest. They reflect on what it means to be an involved dad in a space where men are often absent, and how they’ve found connection, humor, and purpose in a world originally built around Dance Moms. There’s plenty of laughter and storytelling, but woven through are deeper questions: How do you stay grounded when competition weekends run 14-hour days? What happens when your kid doesn’t place? How do you handle Dance Mom drama without getting pulled into the chaos?   The episode also takes on the bigger picture: the dads speak openly about the financial and emotional weight of dance, their respect for the artistry involved, and what it’s like to raise daughters within a controversial dance community that includes drag performers, queer choreographers, and bold expressions of identity. Rather than shy away from those dynamics, they lean in with curiosity and support. And yes, by the end, they each imagine their own Dance Dad solos, offering a rare glimpse at what fatherhood looks like when vulnerability and celebration go hand in hand.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Meet the Dance Dads 05:46 The Real Cost of Competitive Dance 11:42 How Dance Builds Unexpected Friendships 20:41 Dance Dads vs. Dance Moms 29:21 Protecting Daughters in a Controversial Dance Community 32:40 Teaching Resilience Through Defeat 35:28 Diversity, Inclusion, and the Future of Dance 41:10 Misconceptions About Dance Dads 44:10 Could a Dance Dad Reality Show Work?   Links Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dancedadwithjohncorella/ John on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/john_corella/ Patreon: https://patreon.com/TheonlyDanceDadwithJohnCorella Website: johncorella.net Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Melissa Gisoni spent a lot of years trying to do and say the right thing. Then she hit 50 and decided to stop worrying about how others might see her. She joins John Corella for a conversation about finding her voice, showing up more boldly, and choosing joy on her own terms.   John and Melissa talk about the power of allyship, what it meant to her to attend West Hollywood Pride, and how her daughters, Maddie and Mackenzie, have grown up with a strong sense of inclusion and empathy. What does it look like to raise kids in the spotlight while still protecting their spirit? And how do you hold boundaries when the world keeps asking for more?   Melissa also opens up about her dream of becoming an actress and what draws her to roles that feel fun and lighthearted, maybe even a Hallmark movie someday. She shares what she learned from being a dance mom, how she supported her girls as they built careers of their own, and what she would do differently if she could go back, especially when it came to speaking up for Mackenzie.   In this episode, Melissa reflects on what she got right, what she let slide, and what she’d never do the same way again. Listeners will come away with a deeper understanding of how to support their kids without losing themselves, what it really means to protect someone in the public eye, and why using your voice, especially later in life, can feel both freeing and necessary.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction to Melissa Gisoni 03:10 Celebrating Pride and Community 06:00 Finding Your Voice After 50 08:59 Navigating Social Media and Self-Expression 11:48 The Journey of a Dance Mom 14:51 Reflections on Reality TV 18:07 The Competitive Nature of Dance 20:59 Recognizing Talent in Your Children 24:04 Lessons from Dance Moms 27:06 Navigating Dance Mom Dynamics 30:00 Handling Fame and Its Challenges 33:16 The Importance of Supportive Parenting 36:04 Spirituality and Personal Growth 39:15 Dreams and Aspirations Beyond Dance 42:17 Community and Mental Health   Links Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dancedadwithjohncorella/ John on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/john_corella/ Patreon: https://patreon.com/TheonlyDanceDadwithJohnCorella Website: johncorella.net Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Boldness looks different when you’re a gay dad, a former Broadway dancer, and raising a toddler named Maverick in Florida.   To kick off Pride Month, John Corella is joined by Bret and Stephen, Broadway performers, husbands, and proud dads, who offer an honest look at parenting, partnership, and identity. They talk about raising their son Maverick with intention, finding joy in everyday moments, and the kind of quiet courage it takes to show up as a two-dad family in spaces built for straight families.   Where does boldness come from when the world keeps trying to put you in a box? What does it mean to raise a child who sees authenticity modeled at home? Through stories about sobriety, social media, and their dance competition backgrounds, Bret and Stephen reflect on what has shaped them and what they hope to pass on.   This episode questions the norms that still dominate parenting culture and the dance world, and it offers a reminder that being seen can be a radical act of love.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction and Pride Month Kickoff 08:57 Becoming Bold as Gay Parents 15:03 How Dance Competitions Shaped Identity 17:55 Coming Out and Family Reactions 21:03 Advice for LGBTQ+ Youth 23:50 Finding Joy in Parenting and Creativity 26:55 Coping with Online Negativity 36:57 Personal Stories of Addiction and Recovery 42:20 Relationship Advice for Gay Men 44:10 Authenticity vs. Conformity in Gay Culture 47:51 Navigating Monogamy and Open Relationships 53:47 Parenting Challenges and Emotional Growth 56:34 What Fatherhood Has Taught Us 01:00:07 Public Reactions to Gay Dads 01:04:46 Challenging Gender Norms in Parenting 01:16:30 Understanding Straight Privilege in Family Life 01:21:15 How Representation Shapes Queer Families 01:23:11 Celebrating Pride and Building Community   Links Connect with Bret and Stephen: www.instagram.com/broadwayhusbands https://substack.com/@broadwayhusbands   Connect with John Corella: Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dancedadwithjohncorella/ John on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/john_corella/ Patreon: https://patreon.com/TheonlyDanceDadwithJohnCorella Website: johncorella.net Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

This episode is a replay of a previous episode of Dance Dad with John Corella. Enjoy! Happy Pride!    “I loved how free I was,” reflects Ally Marc Jacobs, a transgender teen and emerging star in the worlds of voguing and drag. Inspired by the House of Juicy Couture’s performances and the House of Balmain  on the HBO series “Legendary”, Ally began vogue dancing and quickly became a sensation across social media. She is now a member of both the House of Juicy Couture and House of Marc Jacobs. Today on the Dance Dad podcast, Ally shares insights into the ball culture, her personal journey of coming out, and how both her mainstream and kiki house communities have become like a second family to her.   Ally’s biological family, including her mother Amy, who also joins the podcast, has supported her from the start. Amy discusses the pressures facing Ally as a prominent figure in the trans community, and the scrutiny she faces as a parent.    Ally addresses her experiences with bullies in various settings, from playgrounds to churches and even political arenas, and how she has found a supportive community. Host John Corella highlights the hypocrisy of parents who criticize Amy for 'forcing a lifestyle' on Ally, while they themselves push their children into unwanted activities.   Ally, confident in her identity from a young age, and perhaps even in past lives, is forging ahead fearlessly. Tune in to hear her discuss her love for Beyoncé, Monster High dolls, and her very own dance dad.   Episode Breakdown 00:00 Pride Month & Podcast Intro   01:04 Meet Allie Marc Jacobs   04:50 How Are You Feeling?   08:44 What Is a House in Ballroom Culture?   14:01 Allie’s Coming Out Story   16:06 A Parent’s Perspective   23:38 Handling Bullying & Finding Support   25:37 Voguing at Beyoncé’s Concert   29:14 Where Boldness Comes From   31:54 The Power of Self-Expression   42:05 Advice for Kids Afraid to Come Out   49:24 Allie’s Future Goals     Links Connect with Ally Marc Jacobs: www.instagram.com/allymarcjacobs   Connect with John Corella: Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dancedadwithjohncorella/ John on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/john_corella/ Patreon: https://patreon.com/TheonlyDanceDadwithJohnCorella Website: johncorella.net Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

This episode includes discussions of depression, suicide, and conversion therapy. Please take care while listening. The content is not intended as providing individual counseling on a professional basis. If a listener is in need of psychological counseling they should seek help from a licensed therapist. The show is intended as information and entertainment and not as a substitute for professionally provided counseling or therapy, professional mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you’re struggling, please seek help. In the U.S., you can call or text 988 for free, 24/7 support. Depression isn’t a flaw to fix but a signal worth paying attention to, especially for performers who build their identity around applause.   John Corella welcomes Nathaniel Flatt, a licensed therapist, former professional dancer, and one-time boy band member, for a conversation that pulls back the curtain on mental health in the arts. What happens when the dream gig doesn’t fulfill you? Or when rejection keeps showing up and starts to feel personal? Nathaniel shares how he went from dancing with Beyoncé at the Oscars to sitting on a therapist’s couch, questioning what came next and why it didn’t feel like enough.   They talk about the emotional weight performers carry, the difference between sadness and depression, and what it really means to celebrate depression instead of fearing it. Nathaniel explains how therapy became a creative and collaborative practice for him, and why our culture’s obsession with winning often leaves people feeling more lost than ever.   This episode is for anyone who’s ever felt like their worth depends on a callback, a competition result, or someone else’s approval.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Meet Nathaniel Flatt: Therapist, Dancer, Boy Band Member 06:12 From Performing to Therapy: A Career Shift 14:04 Celebrating Depression and Redefining Sadness 25:04 Rejection, Perfectionism, and Identity 42:07 Finding Self-Worth Beyond Performance 44:43 Creativity, Play, and Pressure in Hollywood 50:24 How to Work Through Depression   Links Connect with Nathaniel Flatt: https://www.instagram.com/natflatt https://nathanielflatt.com/   Connect with John Corella: Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dancedadwithjohncorella/ John on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/john_corella/ Patreon: https://patreon.com/TheonlyDanceDadwithJohnCorella Website: johncorella.net Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Overstretching, underrepresentation, and pressure from every direction… What's really happening behind the scenes in competitive dance?   John Corella sits down with Sharmila Mitra, a longtime friend and respected voice in the dance world. She’s a competitive dance teacher, studio owner, and a Pilates and Gyrotonic instructor who’s helped dancers heal, grow, and stay in the game for the long run. She’s also the author of “The Power of Intention for Dancers,” and her story is one many in the industry will recognize: pushed hard, stretched beyond her limits, and told her work was “too ethnic” to compete.   John and Sharmila dig into some hard truths: Is a dancer’s flexibility more important than their physical safety? How do we stop celebrating movement that could be damaging our joints for life? Sharmila shares how overstretching as a young dancer led to long-term injuries and why she’s passionate about giving today’s dancers a better way forward.   The two also talk about how Pilates, intention-setting, and proper cross-training can shift the entire experience of competitive dance. Can winning mean more than just a trophy? What if dancers were encouraged to check in with their bodies, not ignore what hurts?   This episode is a must-listen for teachers, parents, and dancers alike, especially anyone who’s ever questioned the way things have always been done. You’ll walk away with a fresh perspective, a few strong opinions, and maybe a little more compassion for the kid struggling through warm-up.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Meet Sharmila Mitra  04:33 Body Positivity and Representation in Dance 06:29 Challenging Norms: Bollywood, Identity, and Belonging 16:06 The Long-Term Impact of Overstretching in Competitive Dance 23:08 Protecting Dancers’ Bodies During Competition Season 27:16 How to Train Without Overstretching 33:33 Setting Intentions in Dance and Competition 40:25 Teaching Dancers to Advocate for Their Bodies 47:04 Integrating Spirituality with Dance Practice 52:15 Healthy Boundaries with Dance Parents 56:00 Knowing Your Worth as a Dance Teacher 01:00:00 When Students Leave: Loss, Growth, and Forgiveness   Links Connect with Sharmila Mitra: Website: https://coreartscenter.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coreartspilates   Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dancedadwithjohncorella/ John on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/john_corella/ Patreon: https://patreon.com/TheonlyDanceDadwithJohnCorella Website: johncorella.net Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Dance competitions may not come with gold medals, but for many kids and their parents, the pressure feels just as real.   In this episode, John Corella opens up about the intensity of competition season and what it actually takes to support young dancers in a high-stakes environment. What does a proper warm up really involve? When is it better for a parent to step back instead of step in? And how do you help your kid build confidence without trying to control the outcome?   John shares tips for dance moms and dads who want to be a steady presence during those long, emotional weekends. From arriving early to managing nerves in the car ride, to letting go of last-minute fixes and creating space for your dancer to get into the zone, this episode is full of real talk and grounded guidance.   Whether you’re new to competitions or just need a reset, this episode is a reminder that the energy you bring matters just as much as the routine on stage.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction 04:52 Common Questions from Dance Moms 05:25 What Dance Competitions Are Really Like 08:15 How to Create a Calm Environment on Competition Day 09:00 Warm-Up Tips and Timing 17:28 When to Stop Rehearsing and Start Trusting 22:12 Helping Kids Manage Nerves and Stay Focused 31:41 Why Reflection Matters After Competition   Links Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dancedadwithjohncorella/ John on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/john_corella/ Patreon: https://patreon.com/TheonlyDanceDadwithJohnCorella Website: johncorella.net Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Can you be a gay actor, a man of faith, and a bold truth-teller in an industry that often expects you to pick one?   This week, John Corella sits down with actor and LGBTQ+ activist Danny Franzese, best known as Damian in Mean Girls. Danny shares what it was like to play an openly gay character while still closeted in real life, and how that disconnect shaped his early career. The conversation pulls back the curtain on what many actors face behind the scenes, especially when their identity challenges what the industry expects or understands.   Danny also introduces a less-talked-about influence in his journey: the Alexander Technique. For him, it wasn’t just a posture tool. It became a way to find alignment, physically and emotionally. How do you carry yourself when no one’s watching? Can you feel present in your own skin, even in chaos? Danny makes a case for the connection between movement, intention, and inner peace.   John and Danny also discuss the ongoing debate around representation in the media. Should gay roles be reserved for gay actors? What does authentic storytelling really require, and who gets to tell which stories?   This episode is part personal story, part thoughtful critique, and part reminder that the body, the voice, and the truth all deserve space. Danny brings depth, humor, and honesty to a conversation that speaks to anyone who’s ever wondered whether they’re “too much” to be fully seen.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction  04:44 Alexander Technique 10:53 Stage Performance and Authenticity 14:48 Acting and Being in the Moment 19:29 Past Danny and Future Danny 23:19 Coming Out and Mean Girls Experience 26:40 LGBTQ+ Representation in Media 29:15 Career Challenges Post-Mean Girls 32:14 Becoming an Advocate 34:07 LGBTQ+ Films and Representation 38:55 Wokeness and Diversity 41:14 Realistic Representation in Media   Links Connect with Danny Franzese: www.instagram.com/whatsupdanny www.yassjesuspod.com/   patreon.com/TheonlyDanceDadwithJohnCorella @dancedadpodcast.bsky.social Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dancedadwithjohncorella/ John on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/john_corella/ Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Instagram is failing kids. What happens when someone decides to walk away?   John Corella sits down with Lennon Torres to talk about her decision to quit Instagram and why she’s pushing for stronger online protections. From cyberbullying to sextortion, social media isn’t just a distraction. It’s a real danger, especially for young queer individuals. Lennon shares the work she’s doing with the HEAT Initiative to hold tech giants accountable and explains how platforms like Instagram and Apple could make simple changes to protect children, but choose not to.   This episode explores an idea that’s central to Lennon’s activism: Joy in Resistance. How do you stay hopeful when fighting an uphill battle? Why is choosing joy a powerful act of defiance? John and Lennon’s conversation challenges listeners to rethink their relationship with social media and consider what real connection looks like in a world that profits from keeping us hooked.   Quotes “Part of our liberation and part of our fight is finding joy. And so much of these people that want to silence and quiet us don’t get to take away our joy. And so the act of joy is a resistance. And so by being happy, by spreading that joy, and by reminding each other that we have each other to lean on, is in itself an act of resistance.” (10:42 | Lennon Torres) “If you had a 13-year-old son, would you give them a phone or give them an adult friend that you’ve never met before and put them in a room in your backyard and didn’t check on them for 12 hours? Because that’s what you’re doing when you hand your kid a device.” (29:09 | Lennon Torres) “We have been taught by these platforms, brainwashed by these platforms, to think that in order to have all of the good, we have to have the bad. And we don’t have to have the bad.” (40:48 | Lennon Torres) “We are at the beginning of that fight for child safety on big tech. These companies aren’t going to do the right thing on their own, and we’ve seen it historically. Climate, the reason all of these big shareholder groups and these big companies are doing good for the environment now is not because they woke up one day and loved the trees. It’s because they woke up one day and realized if they don’t do good for the environment, their business will suffer. And we are at the beginning of that fight for children’s safety on big tech.” (50:20 | Lennon Torres) “Connecting on social media is like having a meeting on enemy territory.” (01:02:29 | Lennon Torres)   Links www.protectchildrennotabuse.org https://mashable.com/article/quitting-instagram-meta-you-should-too Connect with Lennon Torres: linkedin.com/in/lennon-torres-325b791b4   Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dancedadwithjohncorella/ John on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/john_corella/ Join Patreon for Free! BTS content and monthly zoom meetings: https://patreon.com/TheonlyDanceDadwithJohnCorella/   Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Masculinity built on dominance leaves men stuck in a cycle of insecurity and disconnection. John sat down with Brian Recker to unpack the false masculinity that keeps men trapped and explore how breaking free from patriarchy leads to something real.   Brian, a former evangelical pastor turned social media voice, shared his journey of challenging the outdated expectations placed on men. They talked about why traditional masculinity so often revolves around dominance and how that pressure keeps men from forming real connections. Patriarchy doesn’t just harm women and marginalized communities. It also forces men into rigid roles that suppress emotion, vulnerability, and self-acceptance.   Brian opened up about what it took for him to step away from those limiting beliefs and embrace a healthier, more authentic version of manhood. He offers a powerful perspective on strength, one built on empathy, mutual respect, and the freedom to be fully human. This episode is a call to rethink what masculinity really means and create space for something better.   Quotes “For a lot of people, I think masculinity is defined by dominance. And so even the idea of equality is threatening to masculinity, because equality obviously is not dominance, right? So to have equality for men who find their masculinity in being dominant, to be equals is a threat to their masculinity, because they need to feel that aggressive dominance in order to feel like real men.” (05:46 | Brian Recker) “Whenever you have an oppressive system, not only the victims of that oppression, but even the oppressors themselves are not free. In patriarchy, men cannot be their full selves.” (16:42 | Brian Recker) “Queer people, especially, have given me permission to be my full self, even though I am straight. I think queer people learn earlier in life than many that, Hey, you know what, I’m going to have to be me or I'm going to die. If I don’t ultimately embrace who I really am, I can’t keep conforming to this mold because it doesn’t fit me.” (17:55 | Brian Recker)  “Jesus was hated by the religious establishment because of who he included, not who he excluded, not who he dominated, not who he sought to be superior over, but for who he brought in and gathered to himself.” (29:07 | Brian Recker)  “Being loved for being at the top of a hierarchy is not the same as being loved for being who you are.” (46:37 | Brian Recker)   Links Connect with Brian Recker: www.instagram.com/berecker www.brianrecker.com   Dance Dad with John Corella Patreon: www.patreon.com/TheonlyDanceDadwithJohnCorella Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dancedadwithjohncorella/ John on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/john_corella/ Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Fifteen years in Wicked—that’s a lot of shows, a lot of cities, and a lot of memories. Broadway performer Justin Wirick shares how he’s kept the magic alive night after night, from tumbling across the stage to finding joy even in the hardest moments.   In this episode, Justin sits down with John Corella to talk about the highs and lows of a life in theater. He opens up about the pressure that comes with longevity, the way gymnastics shaped his movement, and how Wicked continues to inspire audiences after two decades. They also get into the Wicked movie, breaking down what worked, what felt different, and why choreography plays such a huge role in the show’s impact.   How does a performer stay motivated after more than a decade in the same production? What does it take to keep showing up, even when life throws its hardest challenges? Justin’s perspective is raw, thoughtful, and full of the kind of wisdom that only comes from experience.   Quotes “My mom was always positive. She’s like, you got to think positively. Always very positive, always looking forward to the next thing. Maybe that’s where a lot of my anxiousness comes from, too. She was always planning, always looking forward to the next thing. And I always love having something to look forward to. And this lifestyle of touring is just that.” (36:50 | Justin Wirick) “I just know that—like me being back on stage and back in the show—is what my mom would have wanted. And maybe that’s where I feel like I can connect with her the most, even though she’s gone.” (40:10 | Justin Wirick) “I feel like I had such a gift, and all that time we got to spend together. But the show, just being around, we’re such a close-knit family. And I think, I don't know if without them I would be as okay as I am now. So that helps a lot. The show helps a lot. The family helps a lot. Being around people helps a lot.” (40:39 | Justin Wirick)  “I think we’ve always felt different or ostracized or always felt like we're keeping a secret and having to hold everything in. Just as Elphaba was with her powers and her magic, she was always told to suppress that and don’t show that and control that. And then she goes to Shiz University where that skill is celebrated and welcomed. And doesn’t that sound like the story of so many LGBTQIA+ friends that we know and have?” (41:52 | Justin Wirick)   Links Connect with Justin Wirick: www.instagram.com/justinwirick88   Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dancedadwithjohncorella/ John on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/john_corella/ Patreon: www.patreon.com/TheonlyDanceDadwithJohnCorella Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm