Train Your Mindset: Learned Optimism in Ballroom Dancing
Explore the concept of learned optimism and its impact on ballroom dancers with The Dancing Housewife. Discover how dancers can train their minds to handle setbacks with resilience and confidence. Learn practical steps to separate events from identity, stay specific, control controllables, change inner language, and build evidence for growth. Transform your outlook and emotional strength on the dance floor. Don't miss this insightful episode and remember, optimism isn't just a trait—it's a skill you can practice.
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Registration is open for January Group Mental Performance Training for Ballroom Dancers!
January 4 & 7: Become a Learning Machine
Learn mental strategies to memorize choreography faster and reinforce muscle memory.
Click the link for more information and to grab your spot:
This week The Dancing Housewife dives deep into the concept of learned helplessness and its impact on ballroom dancers. Often, dancers feel discouraged despite their relentless efforts, thinking their hard work doesn't lead to improvement. Learn about the psychological roots of this phenomenon, originally studied by psychologists Martin Seligman and Steven Maier, and discover ways to combat it. We'll discuss how ballroom dance conditions dancers to feel powerless, and provide actionable steps to restore control, clarity, and motivation. By understanding and addressing learned helplessness, dancers can reignite their passion and thrive in their art. Join us to explore this important topic and learn how to turn setbacks into opportunities for growth.
In this week’s episode of The Dancing Housewife Podcast, we kick off a brand-new feature: Mailbag Monday, where listener-submitted questions take center stage.
Today’s episode dives into the complex dynamics of Pro-Am dance partnerships—specifically, what good coaching actually looks like and how to navigate situations where an instructor’s behavior leaves you feeling confused, anxious, or unsure of yourself. We talk candidly about communication, boundaries, and when it may be time to reevaluate a coaching relationship in order to protect both your confidence and your love of dancing.
We also tackle a much more practical (and very relatable) question: how to stay warm in freezing-cold ballrooms during competitions. From between-heat strategies to cozy competition-day essentials, you’ll get actionable tips to help you stay comfortable without sacrificing performance.
If you want practical guidance, grounded perspective, and permission to advocate for yourself—this episode is for you.
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Amazon Associate Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from items purchased through the links provided. Shopping via these links is a great way to support the podcast at no extra cost to you.
This week The Dancing Housewife shares advice on managing your energy and staying connected to your ballroom dancing through the hectic holiday season. Explore practical tips like setting realistic expectations, incorporating micro habits, and ensuring consistent training even during the busiest time of the year. Keep your dance journey on track with these insightful strategies and check out the holiday ballroom dance training survival checklist available for download here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Ziz2yah2yXj2wnvGihs61l4ZgMKFE_CO/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=109054692986324794619&rtpof=true&sd=true
00:00 Introduction and Holiday Struggles
00:29 Meet Your Host: The Dancing Housewife
00:56 Managing Energy During the Holidays
02:07 Setting Realistic Expectations
02:52 Micro Habits for Consistency
04:14 Holiday Dance Game Plan
04:34 Conclusion and Checklist
In this bonus episode The Dancing Housewife shares news about an exciting new resource powered by Antoinette Datoc Mental Performance Coaching, LLC: group mental performance training for ballroom dancers.
Discover a sneak peek of Coach Antoinette’s series of mental training sessions designed to enhance your dance partnerships, mindset, and overall performance. From strategies for accelerated learning and mastering your mindset, to cognitive reframing and burnout prevention, there's something for everyone. Plus, don't miss our special 'Silent Killer of Dance Partnerships' session in December, where you can bring your partner for free as a special holiday bonus! Tune in for important dates, discounts, and how to register. Improve your mental and emotional connection for better dance performance. Happy dancing!
2025–2026 Drop-In Schedule (dates subject to change)
December 7 & 10, 2025 – The Silent Killer of Dance Partnerships
• Understand the difference between effective and ineffective communication
• Explore various communication styles.
• Reflect on how your individual communication tendencies impact your partnership dynamic.
• Learn simple action steps for resolving conflict.
• Learn to turn self-evaluation and insights into productive practice plans that fuel continuous improvement.
January 4 & 7 – Become a Learning Machine
• Explore strategies for accelerated learning
February 1 & 11 – Mastering Your Mindset: Controlling the Controllables
• Learn what’s truly in your control—and recognize common mental traps that sabotage performance.
March 8 & 11 – The Inner Voice & Breathwork
• Understand how thoughts shape emotions, behaviors, and performance.
April 9 & 22 – The Three C’s of Cognitive Reframing
• Learn a simple, step-by-step method to redirect negative thinking at game speed.
May 27 & 31– Avoiding Burnout: Resetting Your Nervous System
• Recognize the warning signs of burnout and nervous system overload.
Click the link below to register! Don’t miss out on the special December money-saving offer: register for The Silent Killer of Dance Partnerships and bring your partner or a dance friend for FREE!
https://tidycal.com/antoinette/ballroom-dance-group-mental-performance-training-sessions-3zxwyxz
Join The Dancing Housewife and USA Dance President, Dr. Chuck Garrett, as they delve into the highlights of 2025 and upcoming plans for USA Dance. Discover exciting updates about the National Dance Championships, governance changes, and initiatives to enhance member engagement. Learn about significant bylaw revisions, successful domestic events, and efforts to foster international relationships through WDSF. Explore new marketing rules and future goals, including increased membership and a robust reserve fund. Plus, don't miss insights on the newly launched vendor marketplace and much more. Tune in for an engaging discussion on the present and future of USA Dance!
In this episode of The Dancing Housewife Podcast, we dive into the inspiring journey of the Virginia Peninsula Community College Ballroom Dance Team. Since its inception in 2015, this team has grown from a group of curious students to a powerhouse with over 500 awards. Join us as we talk with key team members, including faculty sponsor Pam Roberts, head coach Ricardo Pacini, and co-captains Christina Ortiz and Tori Feliciano. Learn how passion and perseverance have driven their success and discover how you can support this incredible team. To contribute, consider making a financial donation, donating gently used ballroom items, or spreading the word about their achievements. All donations are Tax Deductible!Here are some details on how you can help keep the VPCC Ballroom Dance Team thriving! People that would like to make monetary donations directly through the VPCC Foundation website can go to: https://www.vpcc.edu/educational-foundation/give/Select “Other” from the drop-down Designation menu and type “Ballroom Dance Team” in the field that pops up.If you prefer to write a check, please make it payable to VPCC Foundation, write “Ballroom Dance Team” on the memo line and mail it to:99 Thomas Nelson Dr.Hampton, Va. 23666 In Kind donations of items can be mailed to:Virginia Peninsula Community CollegeAttention: Pam RobertsThomas Nelson DriveHampton, VA 23666
Join The Dancing Housewife in this special November episode of the Dancing Housewife podcast! Discover the Happy Mental Lifts Giving Challenge, designed to help dancers strengthen their minds, accelerate learning, and build mental resilience through visualization and gratitude. Learn how mental reps can make your dance routines smoother, more automatic, and confident. Follow the step-by-step guide to incorporating mental imagery into your daily practice, and celebrate your growth and capabilities this Thanksgiving season. Remember, not all lifting is physical—some of the heaviest reps are done between your ears!Download your free Happy Mental-Lifts Challenge Dancer's Guide: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1c4HedZOPckLZWSAXfX3V67jKYIQ5zeE0/view?usp=sharing
Leave us a comment, share, wrte a review and tap five stars! If you'd like to contact the Dancing Housewife directly please email her at thedancinghousewife@gmail.com
Join The Dancing Housewife as she flipsthe script and asks for your feedback to help shape future episodes. From interviews with ballroom dancers to behind-the-scenes insights and travel tips, she wants to know what you love most. Participate by voting in the Amateur Ballroom Dancers Facebook group poll, leaving a comment on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts, or sending an email. Your input will help create content that makes you laugh, learn, and feel connected to the dance community. Don’t forget to subscribe and follow on social media for more dance goodness!
If you’re enjoying The Dancing Housewife let us know! Leave a comment or review and subscribe on Spotify, ApplePodcasts or your favorite platform and follow us on Instagram and join The Dancing Housewife Fan Club on Facebook so you never miss an episode! And don’t forget to visit The Dancing Housewife Blog for more content.
In this special episode The Dancing Housewife is joined by Duffy Betterton to unbox the fall edition of the Ballroom Box. They explore various items including a high-end zip lock bag, a fun party game called Answer or Dancer, a body wash infused buffer, a mini deep tissue massage gun, a Sea Clay Body Mask, and two stemless wine glasses. They also uncover single serve wine sangria mixers and discuss the card that details everything in the box. Tune in for their lively discussion and find out about the upcoming winter Ballroom Box and special discounts! Visit ballroombox.me to shop and use special coupon code BBHousewife at checkout for a 10% discount!
If you’re enjoying The Dancing Housewife let us know! Leave acomment or review and subscribe on Spotify, ApplePodcasts or your favorite platform, follow us on Instagram and join The Dancing Housewife Fan Club on Facebook so you never miss an episode! And don’t forget to visit The Dancing Housewife Blog for more content.
Imagine mastering new dance figures effortlessly, remembering every combination, and performing them smoothly without hesitation. It may sound impossible, but itisn't. In this episode, discover how to transform into a learning machine and elevate your dance skills.
If you’re enjoying The Dancing Housewife let us know! Leave a comment or review and subscribe on Spotify, ApplePodcasts or your favorite platform and follow us on Instagram and join The Dancing Housewife FanClub on Facebook so you never miss an episode! Anddon’t forget to visit The Dancing Housewife Blog for more content.
This week The Dancing Housewife welcomes her friend Tiffany Bouquet to discuss the upcoming Midwestern Regional Dance Sport Championships. Tiffany, who organizes the event with her husband Daniel Boman, Shawn Fisher and Annie Topham sharesinsights into the competition, including unique features, registration details, and the exciting Halloween-themed celebration planned. Join us as we dive into the world of dance sport and get all the details you need for this must-attend event in Chicago!
For more information, visit midwestregionaldancesport.com or contact hello@midwestregionaldancesport.com or tbd.dancesport@gmail.com.
If you’re enjoying The Dancing Housewife let us know!
Leave a comment or review and subscribe on Spotify, ApplePodcasts or your favorite platform and follow us on Instagram and join The Dancing Housewife FanClub on Facebook so you never miss an episode! Anddon’t forget to visit The Dancing Housewife Blog for more content.
Join Carolyn Cline and Ross Hill, also known as the Duff Couple, in a special Disney Week edition of the Dancing Housewife Podcast as they dish on the performances of the 11 remaining couples on Dancing With the Stars. Highlights range from cute themes like 'Life is a Highway' and 'I Wanna Be Like You' to captivating routines inspired by 'Maleficent' and 'Hamilton.' DON’T miss their entertaining critiques, judge reviews, and personal favorites as they break down each dance with their signature humor and insight. Don't miss their predictions for the next eliminations and top contenders of the season!
If you’re enjoying The Dancing Housewife let us know! Leave a comment or review and subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or your favorite platform and follow us on Instagram and join The Dancing Housewife Fan Club on Facebook so you never miss an episode! And don’t forget to visit The Dancing Housewife Blog for more content.
In this episode The Dancing Housewife shares her top carry-on travel hacks to ensure you have all your ballroom competition essentials while traveling stress-free. Learn how to pack efficiently without checking bags, including the best roller and personal item bags, compression bags, and essential toiletriesthat meet TSA regulations. Discover tips for packing lists, pre packing dry runs, and selecting multipurpose clothing.
Download the Packing Checklists here:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1SRkvAn6P3HK7ajLC0Kw5BQYCefF8SlXp?usp=sharing
Download the Shopping Guide here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1bJklb2M1YpmMgs9V9Ia4SXOjdHXNZ_Gs/view?usp=drive_link
Items in this episode:
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Note: I’m an Amazon Associate. When you shop using my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission—atno extra cost to you. It’s a fun way to score great deals while supporting the podcast. Thank you for your support!
If you’re enjoying The Dancing Housewife let us know!Leave a comment or review and subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or your favorite platform and follow us on Instagram and join The Dancing Housewife Fan Club onFacebook so you never miss an episode! And don’t forget to visit The Dancing Housewife Blog for more content.
Join the Dancing Housewife, in a special bonus episode dedicated to Amazon Prime Day deals on October 7th and8th. She’s curated a free downloadable list of her favorite products to help you navigate Prime Days like a pro. Use this direct link: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1bJklb2M1YpmMgs9V9Ia4SXOjdHXNZ_Gs/view?usp=drive_link
or head to her blog at https://thedancinghousewife.com to download your free shopping guide. Discover amazing deals, save time and money, and share your finds. Don't miss out onthis exciting shopping event!
If you’re enjoying The Dancing Housewife let us know! Leave a comment or review and subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, ApplePodcasts or your favorite platform and follow us on Instagram and join The Dancing Housewife FanClub on Facebook so you never miss an episode! Anddon’t forget to visit The Dancing Housewife Blog for more content.
Join your favorite DUFF Couplers - Carolyn Clineand Ross Hill - as they dive into week three of 'Dancing withthe Stars.’ It’s TikTok Night. In this special episode of the Dancing Housewife Podcast Carolyn and Ross discuss the night's highlights, including favorite performances, wardrobe critiques, and some shocking scores. Highlights include Julianne's and Alfonso's improved outfits, Jen and Jan'scringe-worthy ChaCha, standout performances from Danielle and Pasha's fox trot, and more. Don't miss their thoughts on the drama involving Lauren and Brandon. Plus, find out their predictions for next week's performances!
If you enjoy The Dancing Housewife Podcast and want to support it at no extra cost to you, you can shop through the Amazon Affiliate links in our Marketplace – every purchasehelps keep the podcast going!
Marketplace:Ross’ Wardrobe
00:00 Welcome Back to the Dancing Housewife Podcast
00:53 Recap of TikTok Night on Dancing with the Stars
01:20 Dishing on Julian and Alfonso's Outfits
02:18 Jen and Jan's Cha-Cha Performance
03:32 Lauren and Brandon's Cha-Cha Review
05:39 Danielle and Pasha's Fox Trot
07:51 Jordan and Ezra's Tango
09:54 Dylan and Daniella's Fox Trot
11:23 Elaine and Allen's Tango
13:08 Whitney Lovett and Mark's Samba
14:37 Scott's Jazz Performance Review
16:44 El and Gleb's Samba Critique
18:05 Andy and Emma's Foxtrot Feedback
20:21 Robert and Whitney's Salsa Analysis
22:09 Alex and Val's Quickstep Evaluation
23:04 Shocking Elimination Reaction
24:57 Wardrobe Highlights and Predictions
26:50 Final Thoughts and Viewer Engagement
If you’re enjoying The Dancing Housewife let us know!Leave a comment or review and subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or your favorite platform and follow us on Instagram and join The Dancing Housewife Fan Club onFacebook so you never miss an episode! And don’t forget to visit The Dancing Housewife Blog for more content.
In this somber episode of The Dancing Housewife Podcast, the Dancing Housewife reflects on the tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk and the importance of having the courage to speakthe truth. She explores how truth, grounded in objective reality and God, challenges and transforms us, drawing parallels with ballroom dancing. Listen as she shares personal insights on delivering and receiving truth with compassion and the legacy of Charlie Kirk, reminding us all that truth is worth living and sometimes even dying for.
00:00 Introduction
00:20 Reflecting on Charlie Kirk's Legacy
02:40 The Power of Truth
03:32 Truth in Ballroom Dancing
04:39 Practicing Courageous Truth-Telling
06:13 Final Reflections on Charlie Kirk
06:46 Conclusion and Call to Action
If you’re enjoying The Dancing Housewife let us know! Leave a comment or review and subscribe on Spotify, ApplePodcasts or your favorite platform and follow us on Instagram and join The Dancing Housewife Fan Club on Facebook so you never miss an episode! And don’t forget to visit The Dancing Housewife Blog for more content.
It’s week two of Dancing with the Stars! Carolyn Cline and Hannah Chiou are back to dish on One Hit Wonders Nightand with Ross still in Europe, it's all about girl talk as they discuss the performances, the judges’ feedback, and the memorable moments – good and bad. Join them as they give their takes on performance, the choreography, costumes, judges' scoring, surprises of the night, and wrap up with predictions for the upcoming TikTok-themed week three.
00:00 Welcome Back to the Dancing Housewife Podcast
00:32 Recap of Week Two: Night of One Hit Wonders
01:01 Alex, Earl, and Val's Jive Mambo Number Five
02:24 Danielle Official and Pasha's Chacha
04:11 Andy and Emma's Tango
05:16 Lauren and Brandon's Foxtrot
06:54 Jordan and Ezra's Revenge Jive
09:03 Corey and Jenna's Chacha
10:42 Jen and Jan's Quickstep
13:28 Robert and Whitney's Amazing Tango
15:39 Elaine Hendricks and Allen's Jive
17:16 Baron and Britt's Samba
18:07 Whitney and Mark's Funky Chacha
19:58 HiIlaria and Gleb's's Tango
21:36 Dylan and Daniella's Samba
23:13 Scott and Riley's Chacha
24:47 Elimination and Final Thoughts
25:07 One Hit Wonder Song Choices
26:01 Predictions for Next Week
26:56 Closing Remarks
If you’re enjoying The Dancing Housewife let us know! Leave a comment or review and subscribe on Spotify, ApplePodcasts or your favorite platform and follow us on Instagram and join The Dancing Housewife Fan Club on Facebook so you never miss an episode! And don’t forget to visit The Dancing Housewife Blog for more content.
This week The Dancing Housewife explores the often-unspoken reality in competitive ballroom dance: falling short of expectations. As a ballroom dancer, podcaster, and certified mental performance coach, she guides you through the mental struggles of dropping placements, from being a finalist to watching from the sidelines. Learn practical tools to shift from frustration to focus, including naming and managing emotions, refocusing on controllable factors, leading from your current position, visualizing success, and seeking helpful feedback. Whether you're facing tougher competition, returning from a break, or dealing with an injury, this episode offers valuable insights for every dancer navigating challenging times. Share this with your dance partner or friends, and don't forget to subscribe for more real talk on the ups and downs of this beautiful sport.
If you’re enjoying The Dancing Housewife let us know! Leave a comment or review and subscribe on Spotify, ApplePodcasts or your favorite platform and follow us on Instagram and join The Dancing Housewife Fan Club on Facebook so you never miss an episode! And don’t forget to visit The Dancing Housewife Blog for more content.