S2 Ep. 03 | From Special Education to Studio Staple: Natalie's Interview on Resilience, Connection, and Purpose - Part 1

S2 Ep. 03 | From Special Education to Studio Staple: Natalie's Interview on Resilience, Connection, and Purpose - Part 1

September 13, 2025 · 27 min · Season 2 · Episode 3

About this episode

Natalie shares her inspiring journey of resilience and transformation from special education to becoming a studio staple.

In this episode of The Studio Podcast, Sandy and Blanca sit down with Natalie- the OG studio member whose story is all about perseverance, community, and personal transformation. Natalie shares how she first walked into the barre studio during the height of COVID, mask on and unsure if she'd ever feel like herself again. Fast forward to 360 classes in a single year, the coveted 1,000-class jacket, and becoming the member everyone else looked up to for consistency and inspiration. In this episode, Natalie reflects on: Her 24-year career in special education, including her journey from teacher to vice principal. Why patience and compassion are underrated superpowers- and how they shaped her life in and out of the classroom. The surprising way she landed her first teaching job in San Diego (hint: it involved a phone book and a big leap of faith). The power of community and why making friends as an adult woman is both challenging and life-changing. This conversation reminds us that movement is more than exercise- it's a gateway to resilience, belonging, and personal growth. Listen in to hear Natalie's inspiring journey from the classroom to the studio. And tune in next week for part…

People in this episode

Hosts: Blanca, Sandy

Guest: Natalie

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Organizations: The Studio Podcast, San Diego

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