Levitate!

In this engaging podcast conversation, Christina Butkiewicus, an adult figure skater, and her friend Chia Lee, an accomplished pianist and fellow skater, explore how their passions for skating and piano cultivate life skills that go far beyond the rink and the practice room.

They draw insightful parallels between falling on the ice and making mistakes in music, emphasizing that recovery and resilience are the keys to personal growth. Together, they reflect on handling the mental pressure of competitions and performances, where preparation, focus, and mental toughness are critical. Chia shares her go-to strategies like musical imagery and meditation to calm nerves, while Christina describes her dynamic off-ice warm-ups and visualization practices. They also discuss the non-linear nature of progress, showing how setbacks often pave the way for breakthroughs.

The episode wraps up by celebrating the joy of pursuing a passion as an adult. Chia shares her experience returning to the piano after a long break, while Christina reflects on her late start in figure skating. Both highlight the power of dedication, community support, and the deep fulfillment that comes from following lifelong passions, proving it’s never too late to embrace what you love.