In this powerful conversation, I’m joined by Katrena Cohea, the creator behind Your Body Image BFF, to explore how dance educators can reframe conversations around body image, teaching methods, and dancer wellness.

Katrena shares her journey from bunhead to flamenco dancer to teacher and studio owner, and how her experiences led her to create resources that help teachers integrate body neutrality and self-respect into dance training. Together, we discuss how early messages about body image begin forming in childhood, how pop culture reinforces harmful norms, and why the common “love your body” message can sometimes feel inaccessible to dancers.

We also unpack the importance of evolving beyond the “we’ve always done it this way” mindset in dance culture and finding a balance between discipline, accountability, and compassion in the studio. This episode is full of honest insights, practical teaching tools, and hope for a more supportive dance world.

Key Points in this Episode:

• Katrena’s dance journey from ballet to flamenco and teaching
• How early body image messages shape young dancers
• Why “love your body” can feel vague - and what to say instead
• The creation of Love Your Body (or Don’t), Katrena’s five-day toolkit with Nicole Sabella
• Simple classroom practices that combine wellness and technique
• Rethinking traditional dance teaching methods and finding balance between rigor and empathy
• Encouraging curiosity, respect, and realistic self-awareness in dancers

Connect with Katrena:

INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/yourbodyimagebff

LOVE YOUR BODY (OR DON’T): https://www.thenourisheddancer.com/love-your-body-or-dont

Links and Resources:

Get 10% off registration for Étoile Dance Competition with code BRAINY10.

Get your copy of The Ultimate Audition Guide

Let’s connect!

My WEBSITE: thebrainyballerina.com

INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/thebrainyballerina

1-1 CAREER MENTORING: book your complimentary career call

Questions/comments? Email me at caitlin@thebrainyballerina.com