Staying Grounded

Staying Grounded #9 – Rejection Part 2 Still feeling the sting of “no” on the dance floor? In this follow-up to our previous episode, Amanda, Melody, and Jon dig deeper into why some dancers get turned down—and how to handle it without losing your cool. From working on your dance skills to simply breaking the ice in conversation, discover practical ways to move past rejection and find your footing...

Staying Grounded #8 – Chasing the Tango High What is the “tango high,” and why do so many dancers become hooked on it? In this episode, Amanda, Melody, and Jon explore how mind, body, and music combine to create unforgettable, transcendent moments on the dance floor. From bursts of pure joy to deep emotional releases, discover the science behind why tango fuels such a powerful sense of connection—...

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, an...

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,...

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 cov...

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...

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 insight...

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 bran...

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 experien...