Dear Dance Mom...

Three of your favorite "Dance Moms", Kelly, Melissa, and Jill are here to give you that warm fuzzy feeling of nostalgia! Listen each week as we answer your questions, give advice, and add a little sparkle to your day!<hr /><p style="color: grey; font-size: 0.75em;"> Hosted on Acast. See <a href="https://acast.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: grey;" target="_blank">acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

What Were We Wearing?! Fringe, Fur, and Flashbacks

This week, we are taking a walk down memory lane to revisit some of the Dance Moms most questionable fashion moments. From cold shoulders to bold accessories, the moms laugh through the style choices that had us all talking.Plus, Kelly spills some behind-the-scenes tea from Brooke’s bachelorette party and Jill is off to Italy for Kalani’s upcoming wedding!And for a special treat, we’re joined by Karly Swindel from Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: America's Sweethearts! She’s giving us the lowdown on life in the DCC spotlight and comparing notes with the moms on all things reality TV—from glitter to grit.Get ready for laughs, stories, and maybe a few fashion regrets. You won’t want to miss this one!Have a question for the moms? Leave a voice message at https://www.speakpipe.com/deardancemom and you might be part of a future show!Hey everyone! We want to hear from you! To make sure we’re delivering the content you love and shaping the show in the best way possible, we’ve put together a super quick survey. It’ll only take a few minutes, and your feedback will help us make the show even better. Whether you’ve been listening from the start or just discovered us, your opinion matters. http://bit.ly/deardancemom-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

09-19
01:47:25

The Comments That Cut Deep — and How We Survived

In this episode, Jill, Melissa, and Kelly get real about the long-lasting effects of reality TV fame — including the unexpected PTSD that came from their time on Dance Moms. They open up about the best and worst things fans (and haters) have ever said to them, and how they've learned to handle the spotlight... even when it's not so flattering.Plus, football season is here and the Steelers are back! How would the moms celebrate if they ever won the lottery? Kelly gives us some scoop on Brooke's bachelorette party, which turns into a trip down memory lane as the moms share what they got up to before walking down the aisle.Have a question for the moms? Leave a voice message at https://www.speakpipe.com/deardancemom and you might be part of a future show!Hey everyone! We want to hear from you! To make sure we’re delivering the content you love and shaping the show in the best way possible, we’ve put together a super quick survey. It’ll only take a few minutes, and your feedback will help us make the show even better. Whether you’ve been listening from the start or just discovered us, your opinion matters. http://bit.ly/deardancemom-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

09-12
01:12:24

How Often Did We Really Agree with Abby?

In this episode, Jill, Melissa, and Kelly answer a question fans have always wondered — how many times did they actually agree with Abby Lee Miller? From pyramid drama to controversial choreography, the moms reflect on the moments they secretly (or not so secretly) took Abby's side.Plus, the trio dives into the Dance Moms dating history — how many real couples came out of the show? These are just a couple of the many topics they cover this week!Want more? Join our Patreon family for video, chats, and exclusive content from the Dance Moms vault! https://www.patreon.com/c/deardancemomHave a question for the moms? Leave a voice message at https://www.speakpipe.com/deardancemom and you might be part of a future show!Hey everyone! We want to hear from you! To make sure we’re delivering the content you love and shaping the show in the best way possible, we’ve put together a super quick survey. It’ll only take a few minutes, and your feedback will help us make the show even better. Whether you’ve been listening from the start or just discovered us, your opinion matters. http://bit.ly/deardancemom-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

09-05
01:01:00

Professional Sports: Dancing on the Sidelines

In this episode, Jill, Melissa, and Kelly dive into the world of professional sports—and not in the way you'd expect. The trio tackles the ongoing debate within the Minnesota Vikings organization about male dancers and cheerleaders on the sidelines. Why is this still a question in 2025?They break down the incredible athleticism and performance standards required by elite cheer squads like the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders and reflect on how professional dance and cheer are often undervalued—despite requiring just as much training, discipline, and strength as traditional sports.Plus, the moms wonder aloud: with all the years, sweat, and rhinestones invested in their daughters' dance careers, why did none of them consider the professional cheer or dance team route following in the footsteps of a Paula Abdul?Kelly also answers a burning question. When Paige jumped off the stage in "Where Have All The Children Gone", did she lay on the floor for the rest of the dance?Have a question for the moms? Leave a voice message at https://www.speakpipe.com/deardancemom and you might be part of a future show!Hey everyone! We want to hear from you! To make sure we’re delivering the content you love and shaping the show in the best way possible, we’ve put together a super quick survey. It’ll only take a few minutes, and your feedback will help us make the show even better. Whether you’ve been listening from the start or just discovered us, your opinion matters. http://bit.ly/deardancemom-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

08-29
50:15

Spotlight and Side Eye: Navigating Studio Drama

Revelations from the studio before the world was watching.Kelly, Jill, and Melissa chat about the highs and lows of life at the studio before the cameras started rolling. They open up about how the studio once felt like an extended family and how that dynamic began to shift when favoritism and fame came into play.What do you do when your child is favored over another? How did they navigate the jealousy, rumors, and mom-to-mom tension? And why did some families decide to walk away when the show started filming?They also dive into a hot topic in the dance community: Lululemon’s controversial decision to remove dancers from their athlete discount program. What message does that send about how society views dancers?And finally, the big question: Was dance a cult? The moms explore their intense loyalty, emotional investment, and the control Abby seemed to have over their lives.Have a question for the moms? Leave a voice message at https://www.speakpipe.com/deardancemom and you might be part of a future show!Hey everyone! We want to hear from you! To make sure we’re delivering the content you love and shaping the show in the best way possible, we’ve put together a super quick survey. It’ll only take a few minutes, and your feedback will help us make the show even better. Whether you’ve been listening from the start or just discovered us, your opinion matters. http://bit.ly/deardancemom-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

08-22
01:09:59

Glitter in the Carry-On: Travel Stories from the Dance Moms Days

In this episode, Jill and Melissa take a trip down memory lane as they reminisce about the whirlwind days of traveling for dance competitions during their time on Dance Moms. From chaotic airport runs to unforgettable hotel moments, they reveal what life was really like on the road — and whether the girls actually enjoyed all the travel. Hear behind-the-scenes stories, favorite memories, and a few travel mishaps that never made it to TV.Plus, Jill shares an exciting update about Kendall, who just participated in the LIV Golf event in Chicago — and absolutely loved it! Could a future in golf be calling her name? Tune in for all the laughs, stories, and heartfelt moments.Have a question for the moms? Leave a voice message at https://www.speakpipe.com/deardancemom and you might be part of a future show!Hey everyone! We want to hear from you! To make sure we’re delivering the content you love and shaping the show in the best way possible, we’ve put together a super quick survey. It’ll only take a few minutes, and your feedback will help us make the show even better. Whether you’ve been listening from the start or just discovered us, your opinion matters. http://bit.ly/deardancemom-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

08-15
54:28

Dear Future Dance Moms: Our Advice

What does it take to survive and thrive in the competitive dance world? From backstage meltdowns to studio politics, Melissa and Jill share some of their hard-earned advice and what they wish they knew before joining the wild world of dance.While Kelly is still getting some much needed rest, Jill and Melissa catch up. Melissa got a home pilates reformer and is sharing how she stays active. Jill is looking forward to a visit with Riley and is super proud of how her garden is coming along.How did they feel about their girls having to wear makeup at such a young age? Did it bother them that it made them appear much older than they were? Tune in to find out this and more!Have a question for the moms? Leave a voice message at https://www.speakpipe.com/deardancemom and you might be part of a future show! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

08-08
54:20

Melissa & Jill: Duo Mode (Get Well Soon, Kelly!)

Jill and Melissa sit down for a catch up while Kelly takes a much-needed break to recover.Jill got a bronze medal in her recent pickleball competition and shares a new documentary that she is obsessed with. Melissa or "Sporty Spice" got a Hume scale and ordered a pilates reformer. She also ordered a dog treadmill for Ivy's training. They talk about their favorite holidays and much more!Have a question for the moms? Leave a voice message at https://www.speakpipe.com/deardancemom and you might be part of a future show!Hey everyone! We want to hear from you! To make sure we’re delivering the content you love and shaping the show in the best way possible, we’ve put together a super quick survey. It’ll only take a few minutes, and your feedback will help us make the show even better. Whether you’ve been listening from the start or just discovered us, your opinion matters. http://bit.ly/deardancemom-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

08-01
52:10

Reality: After Reality TV

The moms talk about the emotional rollercoaster of transitioning from reality TV to reality. Was it hard to adjust?They also open up about their frustrations over what the show could have been and how much more it could have honored their kids' journeys. They share what it’s been like to watch their children grow up beyond the spotlight, exploring new paths and becoming their own people.Kelly gets candid about her daughter Brooke—how, no matter how old she gets, Brooke will always be her baby. And yes, even now, the thought of her getting married feels way too soon.Did they go into a Dance Moms film day with a strategy in mind? Tune in for this and so much more!Have a question for the moms? Leave a voice message at https://www.speakpipe.com/deardancemom and you might be part of a future show!Hey everyone! We want to hear from you! To make sure we’re delivering the content you love and shaping the show in the best way possible, we’ve put together a super quick survey. It’ll only take a few minutes, and your feedback will help us make the show even better. Whether you’ve been listening from the start or just discovered us, your opinion matters. http://bit.ly/deardancemom-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

07-25
53:55

Heart of a Dance Mom: Kelly's Comeback!

This week’s episode is extra special—Kelly is back on the mic after her heart surgery, and we couldn't be more thrilled. The moms open up about the journey of Kelly’s recovery, the importance of listening to our bodies, and why being your own health advocate is so important—because no one knows your body better than you do.Plus, ever wondered what Melissa was always scribbling during competitions? We spill the tea! And we’re answering a fan-favorite question: Did the mom's scope out the competition when their kids were competing?Grab a coffee (or a glass of wine), and join us!Have a question for the moms? Leave a voice message at https://www.speakpipe.com/deardancemom and you might be part of a future show!Hey everyone! We want to hear from you! To make sure we’re delivering the content you love and shaping the show in the best way possible, we’ve put together a super quick survey. It’ll only take a few minutes, and your feedback will help us make the show even better. Whether you’ve been listening from the start or just discovered us, your opinion matters. http://bit.ly/deardancemom-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

07-18
01:01:55

Jill’s Face Is Swollen, and Kelly’s Going Under: Just Another Week!

In this unforgettable episode, the moms share some wild updates and heartfelt confessions. Jill spills the story of how she got stung in the lips—yes, the lips—and is still rocking the swelling, all while battling a case of poison ivy. Meanwhile, Kelly shares a deeply personal update as she prepares for upcoming heart surgery. The conversation takes a surprising turn when she reveals a secret from the past: she once put a down payment on her very own dance studio!Was choreography and dance instruction better before the show? Find out what the moms have to say about this and so much more!Have a question for the moms? Leave a voice message at https://www.speakpipe.com/deardancemom and you might be part of a future show!Hey everyone! We want to hear from you! To make sure we’re delivering the content you love and shaping the show in the best way possible, we’ve put together a super quick survey. It’ll only take a few minutes, and your feedback will help us make the show even better. Whether you’ve been listening from the start or just discovered us, your opinion matters. http://bit.ly/deardancemom-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

07-11
01:01:08

If We Could Turn Back Time: Dance Moms Time Travel Talk

n this nostalgic (and hilarious) episode, the Dance Moms get deep—well, as deep as they can! The moms reveal which year in history they’d go back to if given the chance. Would they relive a year on the dance competition circuit? Kelly's answer may surprise you! Plus, the moms share unforgettable memories from their wedding days.But first, they catch up: Melissa celebrated a birthday, Kelly discusses her upcoming surgery, Jill has discovered Gel X nails. Did Giant Eagle hack Whole Foods? What exactly is a buzz ball? Tune in for this and more!Have a question for the moms? Leave a voice message at https://www.speakpipe.com/deardancemom and you might be part of a future show!Hey everyone! We want to hear from you! To make sure we’re delivering the content you love and shaping the show in the best way possible, we’ve put together a super quick survey. It’ll only take a few minutes, and your feedback will help us make the show even better. Whether you’ve been listening from the start or just discovered us, your opinion matters. http://bit.ly/deardancemom-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

07-04
01:09:38

The Curtain Call: It's Recital Season!

It’s recital season, and the Dance Moms are turning the spotlight back to the stage. From chaotic costume changes to proud standing ovations and the glitter that never quite goes away. The moms reflect on the highs, lows, and lasting bonds forged in the chaos of recital season.But first they catch up: Is it OK to drop your name in hopes for a reservation at a Pittsburgh restaurant if you know they are Dance Moms fans? Melissa is looking for birthday reservation. Jill recalls the LA restaurant, Barton G where every dish was instagram worthy.This week's speakpipe question has the moms recalling how they handled the on screen fighting and drama when the kids were around. What did they tell them off camera? Tune in for all of this and more!Have a question for the moms? Leave a voice message at https://www.speakpipe.com/deardancemom and you might be part of a future show!Hey everyone! We want to hear from you! To make sure we’re delivering the content you love and shaping the show in the best way possible, we’ve put together a super quick survey. It’ll only take a few minutes, and your feedback will help us make the show even better. Whether you’ve been listening from the start or just discovered us, your opinion matters. http://bit.ly/deardancemom-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

06-27
01:02:35

“Hey, Aren’t You From Dance Moms?”

In this episdoe the moms take a walk down memory lane and share the unforgettable moment when they were first recognized in public. They discuss the weirdness of going from dance studio sidelines to the center of attention.But first they catch up. Kelly shares that Josh has had a moment of internet fame while working as a golf caddy and shares her nervousness about an upcoming surgery. Jill is over the rainy weather but loves that the US Open is taking place at the Oakmont Country Club. Melissa shares her recent discovery of using airline miles for an airport guide and shares her latest collab with Smash + Tess.Did a member of our Patreon family find the white chest that Kelly has been searching for? Tune in to find out!https://smashtess.com/en-us/collections/s-t-x-melissa-gisoniLAUNCH SPECIAL: Buy any 2 pieces and save 10!* Use the code MELISSA10Have a question for the moms? Leave a voice message at https://www.speakpipe.com/deardancemom and you might be part of a future show! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

06-20
58:45

Beyond the Drama: Setting the Record Straight

What really went on behind the scenes of Dance Moms? In this episode, we dive into the moments the moms wish the public understood differently. Did Jill really buy Abby that bench—or was there more to the story? Was Melissa playing favorites with her daughters? And what finally pushed Kelly over the edge?But first they catch up: Jill gives us an update on Teddy and we find out that Nia also has a new puppy! Melissa attended a live podcast taping with some of the "Full House" cast. Kelly tells us about a unique movie role that Brooke had after Dance Moms and this leads them to discuss the new "Hershey" movie that has been filming in the Pittsburgh area. The moms recall some bad hair TV moments and we learn why Jill was often wearing a hat. They also discuss the recent news that Abby is suing Cedars Sinai Hospital.If the moms could have dinner with 3 people (past or present) who would they choose? Tune in for all this and more!Get extended episodes, exclusive content, and video by joining our Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/deardancemomHave a question for the moms? Leave a voice message at https://www.speakpipe.com/deardancemom and you might be part of a future show!Hey everyone! We want to hear from you! To make sure we’re delivering the content you love and shaping the show in the best way possible, we’ve put together a super quick survey. It’ll only take a few minutes, and your feedback will help us make the show even better. Whether you’ve been listening from the start or just discovered us, your opinion matters. http://bit.ly/deardancemom-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

06-13
01:06:56

Pyramids & Punchlines: The Stories That Still Stick with Us

The moms reflect on the show moments that still haunt them or make them laugh out loud. What are the moments they can't forget?But First they catch up. Kendall pops in to say hello and we get an update on Teddy! It has been an adventurous week for Jill as they had to call the fire department to get their cat out of a tree. Melissa is looking forward to attending a ballet event with Maddie. Kelly shares the movie that never fails to make her cry.This week's speakpipe question has them discussing grief and how they have handled hard times in their lives.Have a question for the moms? Leave a voice message at https://www.speakpipe.com/deardancemom and you might be part of a future show! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

06-06
52:47

Competition Culture: A Dance Mom’s Perspective

The moms dive into the world of dance competitions. Did they have intense rivalries? Do trophies matter? They discuss handling their nerves, quick changes, dance bags and more! Do they hope to be dance grandma's some day?But first, they catch up.... Jill introduces us to Teddy, Kendall's new puppy. Will he become a permanent member of the family? Ivy is back from training and Melissa provides an update.Also, what do the mom's regret that they didn't do when their kids were little? Tune in to find out!Have a question for the moms? Leave a voice message at https://www.speakpipe.com/deardancemom and you might be part of a future show!Hey everyone! We want to hear from you! To make sure we’re delivering the content you love and shaping the show in the best way possible, we’ve put together a super quick survey. It’ll only take a few minutes, and your feedback will help us make the show even better. Whether you’ve been listening from the start or just discovered us, your opinion matters. http://bit.ly/deardancemom-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

05-30
01:00:12

Beyond the Studio: The "Dance Moms" Drama Followed Us Home

The pressure, anxiety, and drama didn’t end at the studio doors—it followed the moms home, creeping into their personal lives, relationships, and even their mental health.From sleepless nights to family tensions, they’re sharing the truth about how the drama of reality TV didn’t just shape their public image—it shaped their reality.Tune in as the moms reflect on the long-term emotional toll of living in a pressure cooker.But first: the moms all share their Mother's Day activities. Jill shares that Kendall got a new puppy and not everyone is happy about it. She also has a happy update on re: her neighborhood swan! Melissa is getting Ivy back from the trainer and Kelly is on the hunt for the perfect dress for Brooke's wedding. All of this and more in this week's episode!Have a question for the moms? Leave a voice message at https://www.speakpipe.com/deardancemom and you might be part of a future show!Hey everyone! We want to hear from you! To make sure we’re delivering the content you love and shaping the show in the best way possible, we’ve put together a super quick survey. It’ll only take a few minutes, and your feedback will help us make the show even better. Whether you’ve been listening from the start or just discovered us, your opinion matters. http://bit.ly/deardancemom-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

05-23
01:14:13

Choreographed Criticism: Words That Hurt

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, the moms discuss the importance of speaking to children with kindness, supporting young performers, and prioritizing mental health both on and off the stage. Harsh words from adults can leave lifelong scars. Criticism from coaches, parents, or the public can shape self-image and mental well-being.But first they catch up. Congratulations to Kendall on her upcoming graduation from JMU! Melissa is doing a wardrobe purge and getting back to basics. Kelly is on a shopping challenge to find a dress for Brooke's wedding and also a particular gift item. What was their favorite place to visit for dance competitions? Will Jill end up on wikiFeet? Find out!Have a question for the moms? Leave a voice message at https://www.speakpipe.com/deardancemom and you might be part of a future show!Hey everyone! We want to hear from you! To make sure we’re delivering the content you love and shaping the show in the best way possible, we’ve put together a super quick survey. It’ll only take a few minutes, and your feedback will help us make the show even better. Whether you’ve been listening from the start or just discovered us, your opinion matters. http://bit.ly/deardancemom-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

05-16
01:06:22

The 'Perfect Mom' - The Lie We've All Bought

This week, the ladies dive deep into the unrealistic expectations, social media comparisons, and guilt that surround modern motherhood. They are breaking down the lie that motherhood should look a certain way.But first, they catch up! Jill has just returned from Texas where she participated in a make-up event with Kendall. Kelly is ready for spring and outdoor weather, and Melissa has been planting her spring flowers. They discuss how much they love doing things with their kids and how that parent/child role evolves over time, but the worry is always there.Have a question for the moms? Leave a voice message at https://www.speakpipe.com/deardancemom and you might be part of a future show!Hey everyone! We want to hear from you! To make sure we’re delivering the content you love and shaping the show in the best way possible, we’ve put together a super quick survey. It’ll only take a few minutes, and your feedback will help us make the show even better. Whether you’ve been listening from the start or just discovered us, your opinion matters. http://bit.ly/deardancemom-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

05-09
01:02:33

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