Dear Dance Mom... - podcast cover

Dear Dance Mom...

Melissa Gisonishows.acast.com
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!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Episodes

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 in...

Jul 11, 202557 min

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 ex...

Jul 04, 20251 hr 5 min

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, ...

Jun 27, 202558 min

“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...

Jun 20, 202555 min

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 ...

Jun 13, 20251 hr 3 min

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 discussin...

Jun 06, 202548 min

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 f...

May 30, 202555 min

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...

May 23, 20251 hr 10 min

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 i...

May 16, 20251 hr 2 min

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 par...

May 09, 202559 min

Dance Moms - Myths and More!

This week, the moms spill the tea on the wildest, weirdest, and downright funniest myths they’ve ever heard about themselves. They are here to set the record straight. They also catch up, Jill shares some sad news about her neighborhood swans. The moms recap their Easter celebrations and Melissa shares the latest on Ivy's dog training. 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 hea...

May 02, 20251 hr

The Show Must Go On (Sick Days on Dance Moms)

Did you ever wonder how the cast of Dance Moms handled being sick while filming? In this episode, we dive into the untold stories of upset stomachs, unexpected throw-ups, broken bones, and even lice outbreaks—all while the cameras kept rolling. From kids powering through pain to moms dealing with backstage chaos, find out how the cast and crew managed the madness and kept the show going. But first the moms catch up. Melissa spent 30 hours in Vegas and chats about her conversation with Carrie Und...

Apr 25, 202555 min

Lessons for Future Dance Reality Stars

If the moms could give advice to young dancers and parents thinking about joining a show like Dance Moms , what would it be? But first, the moms catch up. Kelly discusses her Easter celebration with her family, Jill has swans on her property who have built a nest, and Melissa shares the latest on Ivy’s training. They chat about the never-ending worry you have as a mom. Even when your kids are adults. All of this and more in the latest episode of Dear Dance Mom. Have a question for the moms? Leav...

Apr 18, 202558 min

Spilling the Tea on Reality Show Editing

This week the moms are sharing their insight on how reality TV is edited. They discuss how certain moments are taken out of context, and portrayed differently from how things happened in real life. They know this firsthand and share their experiences! But, first the ladies catch up. Melissa is obsessed with her new infrared styling brush. Jill is heading to Vegas for some relaxation and then is heading to Scottsdale where she will meet up with Kira and Kalani. Kelly's girls have a new obsession ...

Apr 11, 20251 hr 9 min

Mom Hacks: Life as a Dance Mom

In this episode, the moms share their best tips and tricks for surviving life as a dance mom! They share how they organized costumes, prepped for competitions, and stayed sane. But first, they catch up. Jill is taking care of her mother, Kelly just had surgery and Melissa is getting ready to head back to Pittsburgh. A Speakpipe question leads them to discuss the body shaming that was done on Dance Moms. How did they feel about it, how did the girls handle it and what are the lasting impacts? Hav...

Apr 04, 202559 min

How Does Competitive Dance Affect Family Dynamics?

This week, the moms dive deep and discuss the influence of competitive dance on family dynamics. How did it impact the extended families of each of the moms? Do they have regrets? But first, Kelly shares her St. Patrick's Day fun and her unplanned hang with Dr. Holly! Jill is a Pickleball champion, Melissa shares her vacation adventures 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 ...

Mar 28, 20251 hr 10 min

Is a two-piece bathing suit a bikini?

In this week's catch-up, Jill shares that Kendall just got back from Arizona where she visited with Kalani Hilliker and got to meet her fiancé! Jill will be attending the wedding later this year, and is excited for the trip. Melissa is getting ready for vacation and looking forward to doing NOTHING. The moms talk bathing suits and waxing. Also, what Pittsburgh restaurants are their favorites? Have a question for the moms? Leave a voice message at https://www.speakpipe.com/deardancemom and you mi...

Mar 21, 202543 min

Are Family Vlogging Channels OK?

March is already off to a busy start! Melissa is ready for a vacation and gives an update on Kenzie's built in closet. Kelly has scheduled her bladder surgery and is getting close to her last cancer treatment. She gets to ring the bell on April 15th! The moms discuss the Ruby Franke case and their thoughts on YouTuber families. Also, how did the moms choose their kids middle names? Have a question for the moms? Leave a voice message at https://www.speakpipe.com/deardancemom and you might be part...

Mar 14, 202548 min

Will Kendall go to Law School?

Where has time gone? Kendall will be graduating from JMU this year and the mom's discuss higher education choices. Jill is recovering from a Pickleball tournament. Kelly discusses a tomato and olive oil martini that she recently had, but still can't decide if she liked it. The ladies talk about designer handbags and share their recent finds for dupes. 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...

Mar 07, 202551 min

Bill Belichick's girlfriend isn't old enough to rent a car!

This week, we check in with 3 of our favorite dance moms! Jill recently discovered how many millions make a billion and she shares her surprise. Melissa made the decision to place her dog in a training facility and shares an update. The moms discuss the rising costs of Disneyland, Bill Belichick dating a younger woman, and share their plans for dinner. They also discuss their least and most favorite parts of being on Dance Moms. Have a question for the moms? Leave a voice message at https://www....

Feb 28, 202555 min

Did Benson Boone get wardrobe inspiration from Brooke?

Benson Boone's Grammy jumpsuit has gone viral and Kelly thinks it looks familiar! The moms weigh in on the Super Bowl, Maddie has fashion advice for her mom and they all discuss the teaching style of Mrs. Miller. How did it differ from Abby? Leave a voicemail question for the moms at https://www.speakpipe.com/deardancemom for a chance to be featured in an upcoming episode! 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...

Feb 21, 202555 min

February Catch-Up

Jill, Kelly, and Melissa catch up. From Melissa juggling home projects with her kids, to Kelly spilling the tea on Brooke's wedding plans, and Jill sharing her travel adventures—it's all in the latest update. How do you handle a suddenly aggressive pet? Also, did you ever wonder if their girls struggled to learn choreography so quickly? The moms discuss this and more! Subscribe to our Patreon for more fun and exclusive bonus content including Extended Episodes: www.patreon.com/deardancemom Hoste...

Feb 14, 202559 min

Surprise! Pillow Talk - Season 2, Ep. 1

Pillow Talk is back! Join Kelly, Christi, Melissa, and Jill as they recap "The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives". Enjoy this audio of the first episode! Subscribers will get the full season (both audio and video). Join us today! www.pillowtalkpod.com Pillow Talk – where reality TV meets real-life besties! Hosted by Dance Moms OGs Melissa, Kelly, Christi, and Jill , Pillow Talk is your deep dive into the hottest new reality shows—served with a side of insider tea, hilarious behind-the-scenes stories,...

Feb 13, 20251 hr 24 min

Essential Gadgets

On this week's episode of Dear Dance Mom: It's been a while since we covered our favorite products that we've been using, and you all have kept asking us for more recommendations. So it's time once again to highlight some of our favorite tools that we just can't live without! This time with extra attention paid towards cooking gadgets, because we all cook and anything that makes it easier is worth trying out! Plus: What was it like for the moms to reconnect after the show originally ended? Subsc...

Feb 07, 202552 min

LA Fire Chat

On this week's episode of Dear Dance Mom: It's been impossible to avoid coverage of the LA wildfires, and that's been extra true for Melissa who arrived back in LA just as the fires were starting. This week the moms are checking-in to see how the situation has been going and what Melissa has been doing to manage with the situation. Plus: How do the moms get out of a funk? Tune-in to find out! Subscribe to our Patreon for more fun content including Extended Episodes: www.patreon.com/deardancemom ...

Jan 31, 202553 min

January Catch-Up

On this week's episode of Dear Dance Mom: It's been a busy few weeks! Between the LA fires and Kelly being sick it seems like 2025 is off to a grande old start for the moms, who are taking this week's episode to take stock of the state of things. Plus: How do you deal with a break-up? If your friend is going through a break-up, how can you support them and help them move-on? Tune-in for some quality Dance Mom life advice! Subscribe to our Patreon for more fun content including Extended Episodes:...

Jan 24, 202559 min

First Time Drivers

On this week's episode of Dear Dance Mom: Wasn't learning how to drive a little scary? At least for some of the moms, watching their kids learn to drive was just as scary. Well one of our dear listeners is learning how to drive and to make the matter just a little less anxiety inducing the moms are here with some tips and advice on how to approach such an important milestone. Plus: On Dance Moms was it true that they recorded each dance twice? If so, how was it utilized on the show? Well if you ...

Jan 17, 202537 min

Memory Lane

On this week's episode of Dear Dance Mom: It's once again time to take a trip down memory lane as the moms received quite a few questions over the holidays about their past. For instance, how did the moms met their husbands/ex's? And int he spirit of the season, what was their favorite snow day experience? Plus: Melissa has given her set-up a Dear Dance Mom makeover! Subscribe to our Patreon for more fun content including Extended Episodes: www.patreon.com/deardancemom Loving this episode and wa...

Jan 10, 202555 min

On Broadway

On this week’s episode of Dear Dance Mom: They say the neon lights are bright on Broadway, but would the kids of the ALDC have shone brighter? Did the girls ever have any Broadway aspirations or is three shows a day just one too many? Plus: What are some Pittsburgh does and don’ts. If you're a Dance Mom fan, what are the absolute must-go-to places in the city? Tune-in to find out! Subscribe to our Patreon for more fun content including Extended Episodes: www.patreon.com/deardancemom Loving this ...

Jan 03, 202541 min

Holiday Mom Memories

On this week's episode of Dear Dance Mom: Our ladies love to discuss their favorite holiday memories with their children, but what are their favorite memories of their own childhood Christmases with their moms? What traditions have they kept alive and which ones do they wish they could remember? And what's the optimal way to store a family recipe to make sure it lasts forever? Plus: Since we're looking back this week, what is something the moms with they had done in their 20's to better prep for...

Dec 28, 202442 min
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