On Loving and Leaving Ballet with Alice Robb

Dr. Dan interviews former ballet dancer Alice Robb about ballet and her new book DON’T THINK, DEAR: On Loving and Leaving Ballet. Dr. Dan and Alice’s honest conversation about body image, perfectionism, diet culture, and more will resonate with all parents - not just dance parents.

In 2023, ballet is one of the most popular extra-curricular activities for young girls, and for some, it will take root as a lifelong obsession. Few will ever dance professionally but they will be shaped by the life lessons learned in the studio: discipline, silence, submission, and more.  

Dr. Dan and Alice explore how researching and writing her book (part memoir, part journalistic reporting) can help girls and women of all ages because it explores unrealistic body expectations, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, how to succeed in a world where men are still (mostly) in charge, being judged solely on your appearance, social media, self-esteem, and ultimately helping the next generation of women survive in a culture that perpetuates myths about beauty, worth, and success.

Learn more about Alice by visiting her website: www.alicerobb.com.

Author photo credit: Nina Subin