Breaking Out of the Box: Embracing Different Types of Pilates
Host Joy Puleo sits down with renowned educator Karen Frischmann (Pilates Educator, Mastery Series, Classical Progressions continuing education programs) to explore how contemporary and classical Pilates share the same destination, even if the paths look different. This conversation explores Pilates as a holistic approach to health, cultivating systemic balance, disciplined practice, and durable core strength for foundational exercises. Karen unpacks Jay Grimes’s guidance: “It’s all in there” and “trust the work”, and shows how approaching movement with curiosity helps teachers and students alike shift from chasing perfection to building longevity. Gain practical wisdom on why you should just get moving (it’ll be messy, and that’s part of it), how to progress intelligently, and where the magic of Contrology equipment elevates learning in the studio. Whether you identify as classical, contemporary, or a comfortably hybrid approach, you’ll leave with actionable insights for Pilates programming and refining your own Pilates practice and pedagogy. Perfect for Pilates instructors, studio owners, and dedicated movers searching for evidence-informed, tradition-respecting ways to grow.This episode is powered by Balanced Body®.
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Community & Empowerment Through Movement
In this powerful episode of Pilates Perspectives, Jessica Valant, physical therapist, Pilates instructor, and women’s health expert specializing in perimenopause and menopause, joins Joy for a deeply honest conversation about community, vulnerability, and empowerment through movement. Jessica opens up about her own health journey, including a breast cancer diagnosis and other challenges that reshaped her understanding of connection and resilience.Together, Joy and Jessica explore how movement fosters community, the responsibility of instructors to create safe spaces, and why clear boundaries and expectations are crucial for establishing trust and safety. They discuss how vulnerability in Pilates and mindful movement can lead to personal agency, helping clients advocate for themselves, understand their limitations, and embrace the nuanced wisdom of the human body.Whether you’re a Pilates teacher, wellness professional, or movement enthusiast, this episode will inspire you to foster authentic connection, honor individuality, and see how even small acts of community can create profound impact.You can find Jessica at jessicavalant.com or on Instagram @jessicasvalant.This episode is powered by Balanced Body®.
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Pilates' Place in Rehabilitation
In this captivating conversation, Joy Puleo sits down with Elizabeth Larkam, co-founder of Polestar Pilates, author of Fascia in Motion, and co-editor of Pilates Applications for Health Conditions, to explore how Pilates can be a powerful partner in rehabilitation. Elizabeth shares how her sister inspired her life’s work, reveals behind-the-scenes stories from Polestar's early days, and explains how a deeper understanding of movement science helps to integrate Pilates seamlessly into post-rehab care.Together, they unpack the sensationalization of Pilates on social media and the confusion it creates for clients, advocating instead for evidence-informed, individualized programming. The episode dives into proprioception, gait-based assessment, and the importance of not taking physical ability for granted. Elizabeth also reflects on dance medicine, the value of true collaboration across healthcare and studio settings, and where the next wave of Pilates innovation is headed.Elizabeth teaches daily online classes at: http://www.bewellstaywell.net/elizabethlarkamThis episode is powered by Balanced Body®.
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The "Pilates" Trademark Ruling & Impact [Zoom]
Host Joy Puleo welcomes two pivotal voices in Pilates history: trademark attorney Gordon Troy and Ken Endelman, CEO & Founder of Balanced Body, for a deep dive into the landmark Pilates trademark lawsuit. What would the Pilates landscape look like today if “Pilates” had remained a protected trademark? They take you inside the heat of the courtroom, the legal strategy, and the decisive ruling that unlocked open access to Pilates for studios, instructors, and everyday fitness enthusiasts. Along the way, Ken and Gordon share personal stories from the front lines, including what it was like to work closely with Pilates elders to safeguard Joseph Pilates’ legacy.This episode unpacks how the ruling reshaped the industry, fueling global growth, innovation in Pilates equipment, diversified teacher training, and more accessible pathways for people discovering Pilates for strength, mobility, and pain relief. They answer questions like, Was Pilates ever trademarked? Can you trademark a method? Why the court said no, and how that decision affects the community today. Gordon also explores other notable Pilates lawsuits and their implications for studios and consumers.This episode is powered by Balanced Body®.
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Following Your Passion: Pilates as a Career
Paula Marie, Pilates Instructor, corporate wellness expert, business coach, grief advocate, public speaker, and professor at George Mason University, joins host Joy Puleo to unpack the business of Pilates and how to turn your passion into a sustainable career. Paula shares why “the riches are in the mistakes,” how growth happens in action, and the crucial role of boundaries so you can show up as your best self and fulfill your mission. You’ll learn what it really takes to balance teaching, business building, and well-being, plus practical strategies to market yourself and attract the clients you want. They explore brand positioning and values-led leadership that supports both studio profitability and client impact. If you’re a Pilates teacher, studio owner, or wellness entrepreneur, this episode is your roadmap to niche marketing, with real talk about mistakes, momentum, and staying aligned with your purpose. Find Paula at blackgirlsdopilates2.org.This episode is powered by Balanced Body®.
Pilates Perspectives is your guide to how Pilates fits into real life, no matter your experience level. We unpack the method’s many approaches and history, where it sits in today’s wellness landscape, and simple ways to apply it day to day. Episodes range from building community through movement to using Pilates in physical therapy and rehab. We also explore timely topics, including education standards, diversity expansion across the field, and embracing Pilates as a lifestyle that supports both body and mind.You’ll hear from seasoned teachers, clinicians, and thought leaders who share firsthand experience and evidence-informed insights; useful for curious beginners and long-time pros alike. Our aim is to offer practical knowledge, foster inclusivity, and widen perspectives so the practice continues to evolve for everyone.Follow Pilates Perspectives and join a community committed to learning, growing, and practicing with purpose.Visit pilates.com/pilates-perspectives-podcast to learn more.
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