5.6.7.EIGHT

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra speaks with Jess Spinner, entrepreneur and holistic health coach at The Whole Dancer. Jess holds a bachelor's degree from Butler University in Dance and Arts Administration. Upon graduation, she danced with the Louisville Ballet and did some professional work as a freelancer in Boston. Now, Jess's life mission is to support dancers in finding a personal balance in their approach to food and their bodies.  As a former professional dancer that struggled with body image issues, Jess knows the physical, mental, and emotional grind of dance. And, now looking back, Jess firmly believes that if she put more focus on taking care of herself off the dance floor, she'd have been an even better performer on the dance floor. On the podcast, Jess explains how she's now helping other dancers see that truth and discusses the joy she finds in seeing lives changed and dreams renewed.   Moving Quotes: "When dancers say to me, 'It feels like you're reading my mind,' it's because I've been in exactly that place. You're in the studio or elsewhere and all you can think about is the size of your thighs or how much skinnier the girl next to you is." "I'm a firm believe that, wherever life takes you, there's something to be learned or gained." "I've had a number of dancers now say to me, 'I think I would have quit dancing if I hadn't worked with you.' This was my journey too. You can get into such a negative headspace... It gets you to a place where it's no longer fun." "So much of my dance journey from the time I was quite young became negative and hyperfocused on my body. To now be able to help dancers see a different path is hugely rewarding." "In starting my business, from the beginning, I was steadfast. This is what I am going to do. I'm going to make it work. I'm going to make it work for myself. And then I refused to give up."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:15: Jess describes her company — The Whole Dancer — and the types of services that it offers. 5:55: Jess discussed “the whole you” — the idea of holistic dancer health that is the foundation of her company. 8:02: Spinner gives some advice for anyone looking to explore life beyond the dance floor who may be feeling guilty for spending free time away from practice. 9:26: Jess shares what she would consider to be a “client success story” for anyone who has gone through her program. 13:00: Spinner explains why she decided to become an entrepreneur and is honest about challenges she's encountered along the way. 16:19: Spinner recounts some times where, as an entrepreneur, she was tempted to give up but explains how she managed to persevere. 20:24: Jess explains her decision to work with a business coach and how to find one to work with your unique situation. 24:50: Spinner describes where she hopes to see her company in 5 years. 26:58: Jess walks through her dance career and how her own body image issues equipped her to help other dancers along their journeys. 31:17: As she recounts her own dance journey, Spinner shares some sage advice for dancers who are actively pursuing their dreams.   Bullet List of Resources –  Jess Spinner LinkedIn The Whole Dancer Company Website YouTube Facebook Twitter Instagram  

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra speaks with Liz Bayley, a seasoned professional dancer whose interest in sports injuries birthed a career as a physiotherapist for some of the world's top shows. Liz was a professional dancer for 15 years, performing all over the world. Liz went on to work as a physiotherapist in the West End on shows such as Hamilton, Wicked, The Wizard of Oz, Singing in the Rain, Shrek, Matilda, and Jersey Boys. Liz holds a master's degree in physiotherapy from King's College and, now, serves as the physio for The Lion King. She also owns her own private practice. Liz Bayley loves dance and dancers. In fact, on the podcast, she expresses love for both the artists and the artform multiple times. However, in her own career, her love for dance was inhibited by her experience with lingering injuries. Now, Liz is in the business of elevating others' love for the craft by teaching them to take care of their bodies. On the podcast, Liz discusses her current endeavors and shares some extremely practical advice on how to prime your body to do the hard work of dance. Moving Quotes: ”What I liked about physical therapy was that it was still helping people. But rather than the mental health, it was the physical health. And as it turns out, there's lots of psychology in physiotherapy. So my [psychology degree] does really complement my final career choice really beautifully.” ”Dancers are known for being fit and healthy. And, in general, they are compared to the average office worker. But for what they do, they're probably not as fit as they should be.” ”Dancers must supplement their dance training with cardiovascular work — high intensity training … Try to think more like a sports person. What do they do for their training? They tend to do agility work. High intensity cardiovascular work. Strength training in the gym.” ”There's a lack of education, generally, around what it takes to really be strong enough to be a performer.” ”One of the best things about working with dancers? I adore the people. They've got lovely energy. They're very empathic and emotional. They tend to be very kind and very funny, which I love.” ”I'm not at all afraid of change. I've never worried about making a decision and it potentially being the wrong one. Because I always feel like you can change it.”   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:19: Liz discusses why she pivoted from a 15 year career in dance into physiotherapy. 5:22: Liz explains what her current career as a physiotherapist looks like, including her run as a physiotherapist on multiple Broadway productions in London. 7:21: Bayley explains why some dancers get injured more often than others. 11:40: Liz shares some advice for dancers on how to better avoid injuries, including some pre-show exercises and practices. 15:40: Bayley explains how dancers can avoid getting bulky through weightlifting. 18:50: Liz discusses how her professional career would be different if she were to do it again, knowing what she knows now. 22:35: Liz describes the importance of mental health in athletes but, specifically, for dancers and performers. 24:45: Bayley explains her rationale behind some key decisions she made as a dancer. 29:16: Bayley looks ahead in her career and discusses her excitement as she moves into more of a teaching role. 31:22: Liz encourages dancers to love what they do even more by taking care of their bodies.   Bullet List of Resources –  Liz Bayley LinkedIn Instagram Twitter Liz Bayley Physiotherapy Company Website  

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra interviews David Leventhal, Program Director at Dance for PD — a part of the Mark Morris Dance Group. Through the program — which is on its 20th year — David teaches dance classes for people living with Parkinson's disease and trains other teaching artists to do the same. What started as a humble six-person dance class has now grown to serve 300 communities across 30 different countries. David has received numerous humanitarian awards for his work and has contributed to several books and peer-reviewed studies on dance and Parkinson's Disease. David is a true believer in the healing power of dance and is proactively teaching others to also believe. There's a reason why his course has exploded over the past 20 years — the effect of dance on those with Parkinson's Disease is simply too great to deny. On the podcast, David gives a brief history of Dance for PD and explains why he believes music and movement has a profound impact on all people — but especially on those with Parkinson's. Moving Quotes: ”It's that combination of the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional — together, inseparable — that makes dance such a powerful tool to maintain wellbeing and quality of life for everybody. But, particularly, for people with Parkinson's.” “Dance and dancers have a significant role in maintaining and improving quality of life among our older neighbors — and, in our case, among people with Parkinson's.” ”In our classes, we're not there to teach a therapy session. We're not there to talk about Parkinson's. We're there to address movement as dancers. And it's helpful for people with Parkinson's to think about movement the way that dancers do.” ”Music is like a red carpet that rolls out in front of you. Dance and music together are a red carpet that provides a roadmap for people with Parkinson's to move.” ”Keep your eyes open for opportunities that interest you.” ”Follow your passions. Multiple passions. Sometimes dancers get trapped in that one passion. As much as you love dance and are committed to it, keep thinking about other things that interest you… Keep nurturing those other passions while you're still dancing.”   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 2:49: David discusses the joy of leading a program that's going on its 20th year and the role of dance in helping those with Parkinson's Disease. 5:19: David gives a brief history of his program and details what's involved. 10:19: Leventhal explains the events that led to his company growing from a small 6-person class to a global network. 14:03: David describes the three distinct groups of people that have been integral to the program's growth. 18:30: Leventhal gives his theories on why music and movement are uniquely effective versus traditional therapy methods. 25:56: David describes how his Dance for PD courses are both similar and different from country-to-country. 31:25: Leventhal, who holds a nontraditional career in dance, gives some advice for anyone pursuing a career in dance that's away from the stage. 37:12: David discusses the future for Dance for PD and how he'd like the company to become more accessible in many different ways.   Bullet List of Resources –  David Leventhal LinkedIn Dance for PD Company Website Twitter Facebook  

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra speaks with Margeaux McCarthy, Owner of the Dance Xchange App, LLC. Margeaux is a former professional hip hop dancer with credits in commercials for some of the world's biggest brands. After she retired from the stage, McCarthy became a real estate sales advisor by day and a dance instructor by night. With a love for resale apps such as eBay, McCarthy saw a need to create a platform like Dance Xchange — a resell app for dancewear, created for dancers by dancers. For driven individuals like Margeaux, a career pivot is a relatively common occurrence — always looking for the next new challenge. Being willing to take that risk, with the hope of reward — whether intrinsic, external, or both. But this doesn't make a career pivot any less difficult. On the podcast, Margeaux discusses what drove her to take the plunge as a tech entrepreneur, shares advice she wishes she'd have known when she set out, gives some know-how on building an app and engaging with developers, and so much more. Moving Quotes: "If I could give my younger self advice, I'd say, 'Keep going.' You have that idea. Just keep going with it." "[When starting a business,] you know that it's all going to pay off one day. You have your business plan. You have your structure. You just have to keep following through. And it will eventually pay off. It's just a matter of seeing that in the future." "In my head I had always said, 'Somebody else is going to do [this idea] if you don't.' Everybody has an idea, so someone else is thinking this also. Whether or not you put your foot to the pedal — that's up to you." "You learn better when you learn it yourself. You fall harder, but you get back up faster." "It's so important to reach out to people who have gone before. Get a mentor. I personally did not have a mentor, and if I did, I feel like I would have been much better off." "It's good to have [a mentor] who can remind you to do things locally and not on such a big scale... If you are good to your inner circle, they will be good to you."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:00 Margeaux describes her digital dancewear marketplace platform — Dance Xchange — and explains how she ended up pursuing this idea while in real estate. 8:39 Margeaux describes how Dance Xchange is going so far and discusses her ultimate vision for the platform. 10:05 McCarthy outlines her journey as an entrepreneur in the tech space, having no background in tech prior to this experience. 14:37 Margeaux discusses her biggest challenge and her biggest surprise throughout the entire process with Dance Xchange. 17:09 McCarthy explains the demographic that she's generally targeting with Dance Xchange and discusses the nuances of marketing to these two distinct audiences. 20:29 McCarthy gives some important advice to her younger self. 23:54 Margeaux speaks to the importance of having a mentor, especially when navigating a new or unfamiliar space.  26:41 McCarthy discusses the Dance Xchange Scholarship Fund — a nonprofit effort she's launching in association with Dance Xchange. 29:05 Margeaux describes a second project she's been recently working on that combines her love for dance with her experience in real estate.   Bullet List of Resources –  Margeaux McCarthy Instagram YouTube LinkedIn Dance Xchange Company Website Instagram Facebook  

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra interviews Alisa Finney, Principal at The Gay Wightman School of Ballet, Artistic Director at The Melbourne Ballet Company, and a mentor through the Dance Studio Owners Association (DSOA). Alisa has also crafted a 13-level classical ballet system of training that is widely used by thousands of dancers across the globe. Through the pandemic, Alisa's reach has grown exponentially, as she has heavily used Zoom to expand the size of her dance classes. Alisa is one who wears many hats, but at the end of the day, her passion is for the artform of ballet. And Alisa understands that the future of the artform is in the hands of studio owners, who are training the next generation of ballet dancers. In turn, Alisa invests large amounts of time and energy in developing studio owners so that they're well-equipped to be mentors, teachers, role models, and entrepreneurs. On the podcast, hear about all of Alisa's work and lessons learned in her own business growth.   Moving Quotes: "I'm very passionate about the art form of ballet, and now that I have a little bit of experience behind me and am a bit older, I'm just really passionate about giving back to the industry and sharing what I've learned... It fills my cup to help people." [On mentorship] "It's a hard job running a studio. And we wear 50 different hats, always. Trying to be everything to everyone. So it's important to have someone that we can go to that can support us. That can answer our questions and celebrate our wins and hold us accountable." "The way you do anything is the way you do everything." "As the studio owner, you need to be clear on things like: what is your mission? What are the core values of your studio? It's great to hash those things out with your team." "I really like my goals to be big and quite scary. I think they should give you butterflies in your tummy. And then work backwards to figure out how you're going to make it happen." [During the pandemic,] “I worked with a mindset coach once a week. I think that was a huge reason that I was able to stay so positive and be super positive with my team." "If you're a business owner, you need to know your 'why.' What are your goals? What do you want to achieve financially?"   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:22: Alisa discusses how the pandemic actually caused her studio to grow exponentially. 7:48: Alisa explains how a positive mindset separates herself from many other studio owners and drove to her overwhelming success during the pandemic. 14:06: Alisa describes her passion for the artform of ballet and why she now finds joy sharing her knowledge with others. 16:09: Finney explains one of the most important things that a studio owner can do. 18:26: Finney describes her work with the Dance Studio Owner Association (DSOA). 20:45: Finney, who has worked with many global studio owners, discusses the one obstacle that she often sees inhibiting dance studio owners' success. 23:43: Alisa explains the importance of small businesses having clear and impactful mission statements. 27:30: Alisa describes her process when prioritizing tasks and setting goals. 28:12: Alisa discusses one tangible way that mentorship has impacted her life. 32:31: Finney, who works with a wide variety of international dance studios, discusses some unique differences between dance studio cultures country-to-country.   Bullet List of Resources –  Alisa Finney LinkedIn The Gay Wightman School of Ballet Company Website Instagram Facebook  

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra speaks with Angela Martindale, a female entrepreneur, public speaker, lifestyle expert, and influencer who is known globally for her fitness training techniques and methods, her inspirational public speaking, her lifestyle coaching, and her work with charitable organizations. Angela has been featured on ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX affiliates and has worked with many A-list celebrities, Olympic athletes, and business moguls as their personal trainer and nutritionist. Core to Angela's inspirational message is the idea of self-love. In fact, Angela believes that the one thing that separates those who win from those who fold is a healthy self-talk — a belief in yourself. A belief that you are enough. Angela, who was bullied as a child, learned very early that a healthy self-esteem can not only pull you out of the pit but can also set you on a path to success. On the podcast, Angela tells her inspiring story and discusses how her successful career has been paved with healthy, positive affirmations.   Moving Quotes: "Self-talk is very important. Everything starts with 'I am.' 'I am Angela Martindale. I am beautiful. I am successful.' Those two words — 'I am' — are the two most important words you can say to yourself. And it radiates out into the universe." "When starting a business, be authentic. Be true to yourself... It has to be about what you're about. And every single person has that niche. That something that they love." "The mind and a healthy self-talk separates Olympic athletes from regular athletes." "I always tell my young dancers — the less processed foods that you can consume, the better... This body requires fuel. Really good, top-level fuel every day." "When starting a business, don't overextend yourself. With money. With time. With energy. Keep very steady — slow and steady. Businesses take time. People don't become famous overnight." "If you want to succeed as an entrepreneur, latch onto a mentor. Get someone who can help you through those first processes or marketing thoughts and ideas. Hire someone. Ask someone in your sphere of influence. Because you can't do business alone."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:42: Angela discusses her current role and shares some advice on staying in shape. 8:05: Angela, a serial entrepreneur who has launched multiple successful brands, retells the origin stories of some of her brands. 12:00: Angela gives some advice for entrepreneurs looking to identify niche markets for their products.  13:32: Martindale, who was bullied as a young person, discusses how she was able to overcome negativity and lead a life of success. 17:40: Martindale shares some advice for small businesses on taking strategic plans and putting them into action. 21:55: Angela discusses the value of mentors and the importance of acting fast and avoiding procrastination. 24:14: Angela unveils the single characteristic that separates entrepreneurs who succeed from those who fold. 27:14: Martindale, who has established several product-based businesses, explains the common starting points for getting those businesses off the ground. 30:49: Martindale discusses the incredible power of vision boards and writing down goals and aspirations. 39:23: Angela shares what's next for her in her incredible life and career.   Bullet List of Resources –  Angela Martindale I Am Angela Martindale website Facebook LinkedIn  

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra interviews Tony Bordonaro and Ingrid Kapteyn, Co-Artistic Directors at Welcome to Campfire — an experiential dance platform that merges dance and theater to immerse performers and audiences into incredible dystopian settings. Tony and Ingrid first met while performing in Sleep No More NYC in 2013. After a run of the show in Shanghai, the two went on to develop four evening-length immersive dance experiences that have spanned New York City and Shanghai. The company's name is derived from its first danceplay, titled CAMPFIRE. Tony and Ingrid are addicted to the thrill of acting on an idea — of feeling an instinct, getting into a room, and putting skin on the bones. After all, their entire dance company started as an idea inspired by the raw reality of Shanghai — a novel idea that took an artform traditionally defined by a stage and dropped it into a nontraditional setting, effectively shattering the mythological “fourth wall.” On the podcast, Tony and Ingrid retell the Welcome to Campfire origin story and hope it inspires others to act on ideas and push the boundaries of traditional storytelling.   Moving Quotes: "Dancers can wear so many hats. And, as a dancer, when you have an idea, the idea tells you what to do. They key is to show up, go into the room, and do the work of making and dancing and doing. And everything else follows." "[With Welcome to Campfire], people can expect to have an experience that's up close. An experience that definitely feels like they're an active participant... We invite audience members to be in the world with us. To experience that intimacy, one-on-one." "With our most recent piece, we've asked, 'Have we bitten off more than we can chew?' And we've just had to trust in the work we were doing. I like to call it 'following charm.' To think, 'This is what feels right. This is what feels good. Let's go in this direction.' And, since COVID, we've learned to constantly redirect if things aren't working." "When you don't know, you can listen to your body. It will tell you." "When you're performing is the time in life that you can be the most present. Because you can't think about anything else. You can only do what you're doing." "Something that happens so often when I see auditions that are successful is that it's the people who are the best at being themselves that travel far… Mindfulness is a tool to use in uncovering what it is that you do that no one else can do.” "Young dancers especially need to figure out a way to connect and take care of their spirits and their minds, as well as their physical bodies. So that they can deal with all of this craziness that comes with life as an artist." “Dance has been a ticket to the world.”   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:16: Tony and Ingrid describe their dance company — Welcome to Campfire — and how their name came to be. 5:32: The two explain how Shanghai served as an inspiration for their first piece that was choreographed inside of a post-apocalyptic, abandoned office building. 7:10: Welcome to Campfire, which started in Shanghai, has since moved back to Manhattan. Tony and Ingrid tell audiences what they can expect from its shows. 10:06: Tony and Ingrid discuss their newest project, Subject. 12:41: The duo each discuss their own individual journeys in dance. 18:19: Tony and Ingrid share some advice on how to stand out during auditions, and Tony gives a peak at his audition-day routine. 22:07: Ingrid explains how her choreography has historically come to life and how acting on ideas is key to making art. 25:38: The two discuss how COVID taught them some valuable lessons about flexibility and creativity. 31:07: Ingrid and Tony elaborate on their definitions of “success” and what a success for Welcome to Campfire would look like in five years. 34:40: Tony and Ingrid give some parting advice for any aspiring dancers who are listening to the podcast.   Bullet List of Resources –  Tony Bordonaro Personal Website Instagram YouTube Facebook LinkedIn   Ingrid Kapteyn Instagram Facebook LinkedIn   Welcome to Campfire Company Website Instagram Facebook

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra speaks with Joanna Wozniak, Senior Consultant at HBR Consulting and former ballerina with the Joffrey Ballet. Joanna, whose run with the Joffrey started as a seasonal artist in 2001, went on to enjoy a two-decades-long career with the esteemed Chicago dance company. In 2009, Point Magazine named one of her performances as one of their “12 favorite performances of 2009,” and she can also be seen as a dancer in the feature film Save the Last Dance. Outside of dance, Wozniak holds a bachelor's degree in business from Northwestern University and a master's degree in business analytics from the University of Chicago — two of the world's top universities. Having held accomplished careers both on and off the stage, Joanna holds a unique perspective on the value of the “Plan B” and how to navigate the pursuit of education, while juggling the responsibilities of professional dance. On the podcast, Joanna discusses all of this and more as she recounts her journey from the ballet to the board room.   Moving Quotes: "Having additional passions and drives and not becoming siloed in dance is extremely critical... All of these things are only going to inspire you to be a better dancer." "Don't dump a lot of money into education for an area that you don't actually want to go into... And I don't think a person is the same at 20 as they are at 35. You must be in line with what it is you're passionate about." "Going to school while dancing is a huge transition... Your first few years in a company, you may just want to wait and adapt before going to school... Education today is a lot more fluid and flexible, with online and distance learning options." "The past couple of years have been such a critical time for many people in the arts and in dance to reflect on what they're doing with their lives and where they're going. And what types of possibilities are open. It's a natural leverage that COVID has had on us." "There are some characteristics that we, as dancers, carry as people. And that would be your drive and ambition. Your tenacity. Your willingness to do whatever it takes to achieve and accomplish your goals. Lots of people would love their employees to have these skills." "Dance is not about the individual at all. It's all about the team and everyone who is collaborating with you. There is so much more going on than what is seen on stage."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:41: Joanna starts the conversation by retelling some highlights from her accomplished dance career. 5:46: Joanna describes some skills attained through dance that have elevated her career as a consultant. 8:36: Wozniak explains how dance taught her to be a good team player — a skill she uses daily in her consulting career. 10:39: Joanna recounts some of her most memorable moments as a professional ballerina. 12:09: Wozniak briefly retells the story of being called upon to dance in the feature film Save the Last Dance. 13:30: Joanna – who received degrees from some of the world's top universities – discusses her decision to pursue higher education and the challenges of juggling school and dance. 18:03: Joanna gives some incredible practical advice around finding which degree is right for you when pursuing higher education. 21:55: Joanna reflects on the biggest surprises of the corporate world, after transitioning from the extremely active dance world. 26:20: Wozniak shares some tips on when to pursue more education while professionally dancing. 29:29: Joanna gives some advice for parents, encouraging their children to pursue their dance passions while also pushing for a “Plan B.”   Bullet List of Resources –  Joanna Wozniak LinkedIn

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra interviews Elisabeth Motley, an award-winning, Brooklyn-based choreographer, scholar, and teacher, who is using her platform to make dance accessible to all. Motley — who holds a BFA from the Juilliard School and an MFA from Goddard College — has focused her work on neurodivergence, crip theory, and disability as choreographic sites. Elisabeth also currently teaches choreography at a New York City-based university, while pursuing her Ph.D. at a UK-based university. Elisabeth's work has garnered vast amounts of praise — her work has won several awards and been featured in numerous dance and arts festivals. Elisabeth has focused her life on harnessing the inherent creativity in disability and bringing it to the stage. And her own story is just as inspiring as her world-changing work. On the podcast, Motley walks through her entire journey of peaks and valleys and helps audiences gain a new way of thinking about disability and the arts.    Moving Quotes: "The world has been ready to embrace difference for a long time. People are thinking about the beauty of difference, and it's becoming more a part of our cultural discussion." "First thought, best thought... Trust your instincts. Follow your intuition. Follow your passion and your desire." "What is the inherent creativity that is a part of adversity? That is a part of challenge? Because it's there. And it's definitely there in the disabled community." "Being told 'no' is not an invitation to stop.” "I'm hoping to impart new knowledge into the field of disability studies. I'm hoping to offer new models and procedures for creativity. But I'm not attempting to measure anything, specifically because measurement systems within the medical community can be really damaging for disabled people." "The dance field is not a straight upward trajectory. There are so many ups and downs. It's been helpful to think about how I'm charting my own unique path — my own unique journey." "I've always believed that there's a meaning behind my experiences... There's been a sense of 'I need to make meaning of this situation' ... There's always been this mantra for me that I need to make my own meaning — to figure out how this is going to help me survive this disability. And integrating challenges and adversity into my life became important as well. How is this a part of who I am, rather than pushing it away." "I don't like to think about Plan B. But, rather, multiplicity. I asked myself, 'How can I know a lot? How can I get lots of options?'" "I think internships are really wonderful. Because you build community with people you wouldn't anticipate building community with. Which broadens your career potential, really." "The dance field is not a straight upward trajectory. There are so many ups and downs. It's been helpful to think about how I'm charting my own unique path — my own unique journey."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:21: Elisabeth discusses the PhD that she is pursuing and her research on disability and neurodivergence in dance. 4:55: Elisabeth explains how disability is an enabler of creativity and how her research is offering a new way of thinking about disability in the arts. 9:37: Motley shares her optimism at the broader acceptance of disability and difference in today's culture and society. 11:38: Motley walks through her dance career and educational choices and shares some advice on finding your own way. 15:51: Elisabeth, whose story is one of resilience, shares her thought process through all her journey's ups and downs. 21:41: Elisabeth discusses her decisions to pursue different types of degrees and internships and describes the value of diversifying skills. 25:53: Motley explains what she is most proud of. 27:32: Motley gives a sneak peak of some upcoming projects and what's next in her journey. 28:56: Elisabeth shares some sage advice that she constantly tells her students.   Bullet List of Resources –  Elisabeth Motley Personal Website Instagram Facebook

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra speaks with Flor Aracama and Nico Busso of DuoRings. Flor and Nico's unique creation — DuoRings. — is a unique aerial rings duo which combines gymnastics athleticism and performance and, since 2016, has been regularly featured on tour with Cirque de Soleil. After spending a decade together on the Argentinian national gymnastics team, Flor and Nico got married and kickstarted their acrobatics duo. When not on tour or in residency with Cirque, Flor and Nico live in Rome, Italy. Cirque du Soleil is one of the greatest arts achievements of the last century, and, this week, listeners get the unique treat of hearing how a pair of Cirque cast members landed their role and what the troupe is like behind-the-scenes. On the podcast, hear Flor and Nico's story of getting DuoRings off the ground (literally!), gain insight into the critical role of discipline in the performing arts, and discover how a pair of accomplished artists physically and mentally prepare before taking to the skies.   Moving Quotes: "To develop as an artist, the first thing is just playing. Go to the park. Just start without competition. That's really how we learned to love what we do." "Perseverance, determination, and hard work are the keys to achieving the goals and dreams that you set for yourself... Impossible is nothing. If you're passionate about something, you can get whatever you want in life." "When auditioning, you must have an objective. 'Okay, I want to do that. I want to get that thing. I have an inspiration to do it.' That's the first part... Second, don't copy anybody. You are yourself. Move to your strengths." "At some point, our performance career will finish. This is why it's important to take care of your body. If you take care of your body, you can grow and continue living." "Every artist is different, and every artist knows what they need to give the best performance. You must be aware of everything you need to be 100 percent on the stage." "You must never lose your character until you are in your dressing room."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:34: Flor and Nico retell how they ended up together as an act and how their act made it to Cirque du Soleil. 8:17: Flor and Nico explain what audiences can expect from their DuoRings performance. 10:36: DuoRings shares some advice for performers preparing for auditions. 13:24: Nico discusses why he decided to branch out and pursue an alternate career in physical therapy and how being a dancer helps his physical therapy career (and vice versa). 16:45: Flor and Nico give a sneak peek at what it's like on the inside of Cirque du Soleil. 20:20: Flor and Nico discuss the importance of discipline in the creative world and how they, personally, must be disciplined as they perform. 22:59: DuoRings shares several tips on physically and mentally preparing for rehearsals and performances. 31:31: Flor discusses what's next for DuoRings and where audiences can expect to see them next. 33:24: Flor and Nico give some advice to anyone looking to get off the ground with a career in the arts.   Bullet List of Resources –  Flor Aracama LinkedIn Instagram Nico Busso LinkedIn Instagram DuoRings Company Website Instagram Facebook YouTube

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra interviews Nico Kolokythas, Founder of strengthmotionmind and Strength and Conditioning Coach at the Birmingham Royal Ballet. Nico has an extensive two-decades-long background in elite sports, focusing predominately on judo, netball, basketball, football, taekwondo, and tennis. Nico eventually completed a PhD in injuries and the adolescent ballet dancer through the Elmhurst Ballet School in the UK. He now leads strengthmotionmind — a group focused on educating dancers and dance instructors on strength training and injury prevention. Nico carries a unique perspective, having pivoted his research career from athletics to dance. Upon entering the arts, Nico was shocked by the lack of injury prevention research in dance — something that receives heavy investment in the sports world. Nico has since made curbing that trend his North Star. On the podcast, Nico discusses the work he's doing to forward the conversation about injury prevention in dance and gives some practical advice on makimg that goal a reality.   Moving Quotes: "In sports, injury prevention was at the top of the list. Whereas, in dance, it felt like it was injury management." "There's not enough evidence that the common workouts used on top of dance training has any effect on injury prevention. We need to move the intensity of the training a little bit higher to have an injury prevention effect. Low intensity training will give minimal change to the body." "We know physical strength training can actually improve confidence. So, in a way, when we educate young dancers, we are improving their self-confidence and self-esteem." "I am constantly getting feedback on what works and what doesn't. Because thinking you know what works and thinking that you're not going to make mistakes is probably your biggest mistake." "You have to know your audience. There's different language you will use in front of researchers, and there's different language you'll use in front of dance teachers or dancers themselves." "If you're a dancer that wants to help dancers, you already have a foot in the door. Because you know the discipline. You know the industry." "One of the things we should be thinking when talking about youth dance development is that we want to be active for life. Therefore, giving the right tools at an early age, we have more chances for them to actually be active for life."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:31: Nico describes his company — strengthmotionmind — and the work he's doing in educating both dancers and dance practitioners. 6:23: Nico, who founded his process on the idea of feedback and iteration, discusses the importance of receiving feedback and acting on that feedback. 9:15: Kolokythas gives more information on his strength and conditioning classes. 11:53: Nico discusses the lack of injury prevention information in dance and the actions he's taking to curb that trend. 19:13: Kolokythas, who has extensive experience in sports research, explains some lessons learned in athletics that he's carrying over to dance. 22:34: Nico explains why he believes injuries are so prevalent in dance and how dancers and dance instructors can move from injury management to injury prevention. 31:31: Nico discusses how dancers and non-dancers can prepare their bodies for decades-long active lifestyles. 37:00: Kolokythas gives some advice to any dancers looking to enter the field of dance research. 39:18: Nico explains what's next for him and how he's planning to extend the reach of his valuable research.   Bullet List of Resources –  Nico Kolokythas LinkedIn Twitter strengthmotionmind Company Website Instagram Facebook

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra speaks with Alexandra Damiani, Artistic Director at BJM-Les Ballets Jazz De Montréal. Alexandra was classically trained in dance in and around her home country of France. After winning the jeune ballet d'Aquitaine de Bordeaux competition in France, she received a scholarship to the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in the US and has since danced at a variety of companies — including the company where she is now Artistic Director. Alexandra also has experience in the music and film industries, including an appearance in the acclaimed film Black Swan. For Alexandra, some of her most formative years as an artist — and as a human — were her years in New York City. Upon landing in the United States, this city filled her with awe and curiosity around all areas of the arts and helped rid her of any anxiety and fear as a citizen in a foreign land. On the podcast, Alexandra discusses the modern dance industry and walks through her entire career but, most notably, shares why the “Big Apple” holds a special place in her heart.   Moving Quotes: "Suddenly every conditioning I had, every expectation, every demand I was putting on my own body to be a dancer — all of that just exploded. In a moment, suddenly everything was possible. That was New York, for me." "For the arts, the pandemic is a crucible. This is how we get clearer and stronger. And we can show what we're made of, in a way. There are huge opportunities, if we don't let fear paralyze us." "Voice lessons and theater and, really, anything will add to your dance resumé. I think, more and more, choreographers want to have dancers who can really offer something." "You can't be a contemporary dance company and not be a mirror of the society you are a part of." "I feel very grateful that I have a voice and a platform so that I can be an example for my daughter — for my young dancers — and contribute in that way. At the same time, I don't have all the answers [for achieving female equality in dance leadership]. But we're at the start of a very long journey." "Ultimately, leading this company is not about me. It's about me with the team, at the service of this dance company from Montreal. From Quebec. From Canada. And I like that challenge — that it will be a balancing act between just the right amount of history and innovation... It's a dance." "For me, dance has no borders."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 2:50: Alexandra, who previously danced for BJM-Les Ballets De Montréal, discusses what it's like to come back and now serve as artistic director. 3:57: Alexandra shares some lessons learned in her time as a performer that she hopes to implement as artistic director. 6:42: Damiani explains how she hopes to bring her own personality to her artistic direction, while maintaining the rich culture of BJM-Les Ballets De Montréal. 10:08: Damiani predicts her biggest challenge as she takes the reigns as artistic director. 14:02: Alexandra describes her excitement to be a woman in dance leadership, at this pivotal time when that male-centric culture is beginning to change.  18:37: Damiani, who has appeared in feature films like Black Swan, discusses her involvement in the music and film industry. 22:54: Alexandra retells stories from her life-changing years in New York City and how that time period came to define her as a dancer and as a person. 31:38: Alexandra imparts some advice to aspiring dancers who are hoping to succeed in the industry.   Bullet List of Resources –  Alexandra Damiani Company Website LinkedIn Instagram BJM-Les Ballets Jazz De Montréal Company Website Instagram Twitter Facebook YouTube

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra interviews Julie Cartwright, President at P.volve. P.volve is an omnichannel fitness brand featuring a global on-demand platform, a growing line of patented equipment, and several franchise studios in New York City, Chicago, and Los Angeles. Since its founding in 2018, P.volve has grown from a few employees to over 75 employees — and counting. Julie, herself, is a graduate of Ohio University and held a variety of executive-level marketing positions before becoming president at her current company.When Julie stepped away from her comfortable corporate job and shifted towards entrepreneurship, she knew that her life was going to permanently change. But, at the end of the day, she knew she was making the right choice. Why? Passion. Because of an overwhelming love of what health and fitness. And because of an addiction to entrepreneurship and building something from scratch. On the podcast, Julie recounts her entire journey through this crazy world of entrepreneurship and discusses why she decided to trade in a successful corporate career and never look back.   Moving Quotes: "I think the risk of entrepreneurship is significant for everyone. But I knew I wanted this... You have to think about your happiness and what you want, but you also have to believe in yourself." "I'm addicted to the continued evolution of learning and growing." "Believe in yourself. And don't take 'no' for an answer. If you see it and you believe it, I genuinely believe you can make it happen... If you believe in something, go after it. And I think you'll surprise yourself." "People are more focused on their holistic health than ever before... We've had so many conversations with members about not just looking good but feeling good." "It's so powerful to hear other women's stories about building their businesses. There are so many similarities between all of our stories... Through hearing all of the stories, I'm more in love with female leaders than ever before. Because they're just so resilient. I'm in awe." "When starting a business, you have to have a real gut instinct around the things that you know are going to be most meaningful to prove your business out. But you have to stay extremely scrappy. And listen to the customer." "As people are trying to take a leap of faith, it's so important to have conversations. Because you never know where they will lead." "I think it's extremely rewarding to hire and recruit talent. To bring them to our 'why' ... A lot of people do jobs without knowing the impact that they have on people's lives... It's been exciting to allow some of my team to see their impacts."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:07: Julie explains the core components of her company, P.volve. 11:24: Julie discusses what trends she's seeing in the fitness industry as a whole and how these trends bode well for the work she's doing with P.volve. 14:50: Cartwright walks through her career evolution, from a high-ranking employee at a large entertainment corporation to spearheading a nimble startup. 20:31: Cartwright describes the starkest differences between her previous corporate job and her current position at a startup. 26:39: Julie discusses what is, in her opinion, the most difficult part of being an entrepreneur. 29:23: Julie describes the most rewarding component of being an entrepreneur. 31:28: Cartwright rehashes her company's first steps when starting P.volve. 35:58: Julie discusses the benefit of starting a company, alongside one or multiple business partners. 38:36: Cartwright, whose company has experienced massive growth since its start in 2018, explains how her company has been able to scale so quickly. 42:38: Julie discusses what's next for her company and leaves listeners with some valuable advice on pursuing their dreams.   Bullet List of Resources –  Julie Cartwright LinkedIn Instagram P.volve Company Website Instagram Twitter Facebook YouTube Chief   Organization Website    

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra speaks with Dr. Chloe Angyal, an accomplished journalist and published author. Most recently, Chloe released Turning Pointe: How the New Generation of Dancers is Saving Ballet from Itself. Her book focuses on the future of ballet and reckons with all the forces that endanger its future — whether that be racism, sexism, elitism, or many others. Dr. Angyal holds a bachelor's degree from Princeton University and a doctorate from the University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia. Some of Chloe's earliest ballet journalism centered around the bullying of young boys who participated in the artform. Yet, after writing the piece, Chloe felt there was so much more to be said. And there was indeed more to be said — an entire 300-page book's worth. On the podcast, Chloe discusses her book, which outlines the historical issues plaguing ballet but speaks optimistically to how dance's next generation is righting many of the wrongs and making ballet a more equitable environment for everyone.    Moving Quotes: "When most people think about a ballet dancer, they think about a woman who is white who has long flowing hair. She is slender and effortlessly feminine... But the fact that that's most people's first thought is an obstacle that everyone else has to overcome." "Sometimes it takes having an outsider to reflect your underlying assumptions [about ballet] back to you for you to realize, 'Yikes. There's a real problem here.'"  "One thing that I think a lot of people that leave ballet go through is a very solitary, piece-by-piece reflection on [what they went through] and realizing, slowly, that it was wrong, and it hurt them... I want my book to accelerate that process for people and to build a sense of community." "Long after they stopped taking ballet classes, you have women who are walking around, thinking about how they failed to meet that ideal. Which is so glamorous and beautiful but also monastic and "nun-like," considering how isolated and exclusive professional ballet seems to be. Everyone has a ballet story, and a lot of them are not good." "The cost of the prejudice [against bigger bodies in ballet] is stress fractures and mental illness and short careers and dancers with pre-osteoporosis. The cost of the prejudice among both artistic directors ticketholders like me is just too high. And it's unacceptable.” "Resist the urge to do what ballet often teaches you to do. Which is to explain why something has to be the way it is. And instead say, 'But what if it didn't?' Let's assume it can be something different. What does that something different look like?"   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:14: Chloe explains the premise behind her book — Turning Pointe: How the New Generation of Dancers is Saving Ballet from Itself — and what prompted her to write it. 10:29: Chloe discusses some possible solutions to the systemic issues inside of ballet. 12:36: Chloe explains her theory behind why there are so many men in ballet leadership when there are so few boys in ballet and offers a solution to the issue. 16:37: Angyal describes two surprises that she discovered while researching for her book. 24:30: Angyal discusses how ballet's status quo creates a toxic environment, especially when it comes to female body image and body care. 30:00: Chloe shares her journey that's led to her successful career, as a non-dancer involved the dance industry. 32:37: Angyal discusses her education and reveals the unique topic that was the focus of her doctoral thesis. 36:47: Chloe encourages listeners to resist the status quo and define a more just and equitable future for ballet.   Bullet List of Resources –  Chloe Angyal Personal Website Twitter Instagram Turning Pointe: How the New Generation of Dancers is Saving Ballet from Itself Book Website On Amazon

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra interviews Erin Pride, Founder and CEO at Dancepreneur Academy and host of The Dance Boss Podcast. Erin holds a BFA in dance from Montclair State University and a master's in dance education from New York University. Her company helps dance professionals launch and scale online dance businesses. Erin is also the host of the Dance Boss Podcast, where she gives tips and strategies on building online businesses on a weekly basis. Erin spends her days coaching others on the ins and outs of business building; however, Erin would be the first to tell you that knowledge minus action equals nothing. Only those entrepreneurs who are willing to act on their learning will flourish. On the podcast, Erin impresses upon listeners the extreme importance of having coaches and mentors but admits that advice can only go so far. Change is reserved for those who take action.    Moving Quotes: "Just start. If you don't implement, it doesn't matter. We have an expiration date... I don't want to wait for anything because we never know when our time is going to end here on this earth." "Dancers need an entrepreneurial mindset. And if you don't want to pursue dance, I don't want anyone to feel like they can't stay in the dance community. There are tons of opportunities that can also bring you money." "The first step in my process is helping my clients understand the value of focusing on one thing. And the second step is helping them identify those old stories and mindset blocks that make them thing they have to do everything at once." "When it comes to hiring a coach, I truly believe that paying people to support you is important. Money is circular. Once you start giving it out, you'll start receiving it." "When the pandemic hit, I found that there were two types of people. One, the type of person that had to move online. And two, the type of person that was stuck in the house and realized that there was more that they wanted to do with the gifts that they'd been granted." "So many times, we get stuck wondering if we're making the 'right choice.' But I have learned, as I reflect on my journey, that every single choice has been a part of the puzzle to get me here. Whether on a small scale or a big scale... So take some pressure off of your shoulders about making the 'right choice.'" "I was so apprehensive about getting a coach before I got a coach. But once I got a coach, it's something that I'm always going to have in my life. Not only for business strategy, but also for the mindset support."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 2:57: Erin shares information on her business, which coaches dance professionals on establishing their own online businesses. 9:11: Erin shares an important tip on managing money that she learned from personal experience. 11:57: Erin walks through her process in helping others discover the businesses that they want to build and setting up the framework to build those businesses. 15:07: Pride shares some tips on building a unique brand and standing out on social media. 20:30: Pride shares a couple of inspirational success stories of her own clients. 23:43: Erin, who is also a podcast host, describes her podcast and what she finds most challenging and rewarding. 27:23: Erin encourages listeners to not worry about making the “right choice” and to trust that every decision is just setting you up for your ultimate destination. 30:50: Pride describes a dream that she hopes to eventually accomplish in her life. 34:18: Pride discusses what she believes is the entrepreneur's greatest challenge. 38:20: Erin shares some final advice for anyone looking to achieve a goal.   Bullet List of Resources –  Erin Pride Personal Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Dancepreneur Academy Company Website The Dance Boss Podcast Podcast Website

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra speaks with Sonja McCord, Chief Executive Officer at The Sonja McCord X. Sonja — who is based in New York City — has had opportunities to perform with a myriad of top dance companies and boasts 15+ years of agency and in-house marketing experience. Now, Sonja combines both careers at her company, where she coaches dancers to amplify their brand, monetize their art, increase visibility, and put their best foot forward from a marketing perspective. Sonja, whose path to her current destination has been far from linear, is a firm believer in having the right mindset when pursuing goals. And, to Sonja, a key component of pursuing dreams is a willingness to say “yes” to whatever the universe throws at you, all to reach the perfect finish line. On the podcast, Sonja talks about the importance of saying “yes,” while sprinkling in some extremely valuable tips on marketing yourself well, choosing the right field of study, and so much more.   Moving Quotes: "Saying 'yes' to yourself allows you to really focus 100 percent without guilt and shame. And that mindset shift alone can make or break a dancer." "I empower my students to go 100 percent. I always ask my students, 'What if you said "yes" to your career and to giving 100 percent to your goals? Where do you think you'd be a year from now?' It's really a lightbulb moment for dancers. It's exciting to see them transform over six weeks, once they allow themselves to say 'yes.'" "If a casting director or artistic director or choreographer landed on your Instagram page, what information would they need to know about you in order to book you as a dancer?" "Your Instagram bio is really important. You'd be surprised how many dancers don't put 'dancer' or 'artist' in their bio. When someone comes to your page, they need to know right away what you do and what you're trying to do." "The thing that I loved the most about dancing was that feeling of being on stage and being free and not having a single bit of fear in my heart. Just being able to go out there and give it my best and shine. I hope I'm able to carry that through for the rest of my life." "When it comes to dancers, whether you're in class, in auditions, or in rehearsals, the only person you're competing with is yourself. That's getting better and better at your craft. That's being focused. That's being the best version of yourself." "Visualization comes back to identifying moments in your life that changed the trajectory of your life and seeing how you responded to it." "When you expand your horizons and start learning other fields, it actually makes you appreciate dance all the more."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:31: Sonja describes The Sonja McCord X and its work empowering dancers and building brands. 6:25: Sonja explains the power of saying “yes” — to embracing every opportunity and being willing to truly pursue one's dreams. 8:01: McCord discusses the role that visualization plays in achieving one's goals and gives her own definition of visualization. 10:58: McCord describes an upcoming workshop that revolves around building an online brand. 14:02: Sonja, a seasoned marketer, gives a couple of tips for dancers on building a solid online presence and marketing yourself well. 20:29: Sonja, who received a major in finance, explains how she came to choose a degree so seemingly unrelated to her current calling. 22:21: Sonja shares some tips on how dancers should be investing in themselves, both in terms of money and time. 25:17: McCord, who has danced at a variety of high profile dance companies, discusses how each of these companies taught her important career skills. 27:56: McCord shares some valuable lessons that she learned while participating in pageants. 30:19: Sonja gives some advice for any students who are weighing the pros and cons of foregoing university to pursue dance versus studying dance at university.   Bullet List of Resources –  Sonja McCord Instagram LinkedIn The Sonja McCord X Company Website Instagram YouTube Facebook Twitter

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra interviews Billy Siegenfeld, Founder of Jump Rhythm, creator of the Standing Down Straight technique, and a myriad of other things — playwright, choreographer, music arranger, performer, director, professor, and much more. Billy received his undergraduate degree from Brown University and a graduate degree in jazz studies from New York University. As a professor at Northwestern University, Billy is a Charles Deering McCormick Professor of Teaching Excellence in the Department of Theatre. Jump Rhythm is a multiple-Emmy Award winning performance and teaching company that is a manifestation of Billy's Standing Down Straight technique. This form teaches its performers to utilize “primal human behavior,” which taps into the mental and physical energy of the performers and teaches performers to not fight against gravity while dancing. On the podcast, Billy lays out his technique in full and explains in detail how his form can benefit people from all walks of life — not just dancers.   Moving Quotes: "Primal human behavior is the behavior coming from the inside of us, unedited. It is our energy — our physical and emotional energies... So much of our art is created by these energies." "One of the hardest things in the world is letting the body let go. We're all under pressure. My technique is just telling our bodies to slow down." "When we're too much in the grip of having to 'make it' and succeed, what's more needed is just figuring out how to slow that down a little bit." "The real question you have to answer when making a piece of art is this: how do you make it as truthful as possible, so that somebody who is absorbing it feels, 'Ah, me too — I feel that too'?" "For every class you take, give yourself the time to not go to a class. Make some time into 'nothing time.' Don't be doing something all the time... Not doing is as important as doing." "Art functions as a catalyst for a person becoming more aware of themselves and also becoming more aware of the other people they're dealing with." "Relaxation is the crying need of our age... Let's figure out how to use relaxation as an active tool when doing our work."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:50: Billy discusses the concept of “primal human behavior” and how tapping into this idea makes art more real for both audiences and performers. 9:58: Billy explains how dance uniquely helps release pent up emotions inside of dancers. 14:00: Siegenfeld discusses the concepts inside of his essay Standing Down Straight and how these concepts are taught inside of his workshops. 21:14: Siegenfeld explains how his technique is helpful for people of all walks of life — especially general populations who spend their days looking down at their phones. 23:33: Siegenfeld describes how his technique is particularly valuable for older populations. 25:40: Billy provides some more information on another of his essays, which traces the history of swing dance and how it's a metaphor for democracy. 29:39: Billy, who is also a playwright, describes the premise of his play, What Do You Want to Be When You Give Up. 36:31: Siegenfeld describes the classes he teaches at Northwestern University and explains how rest and relaxation are desperately needed in the modern era. 43:36: Billy shares some expert advice for anybody starting their careers in the dance industry.   Bullet List of Resources –  Billy Siegenfeld LinkedIn On Northwestern University website Jump Rhythm Company Website Facebook Instagram YouTube

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra speaks with Clare Guss-West — a published author, choreographer, teacher, Committee Chair at the International Association for Dance Medicine & Science, and Co-Founder and Director of the Dance & Creative Wellness Foundation. Clare's resume is extensive and varied, but most of her work seeks to apply scientific research into professional, vocational, and inclusive dance practice. Supported by her Eastern movement practice, she provides mindful attention and focused strategies that harness the mind, energy, and effort to empower dancers. These practices allow dancers to optimize their own physical and mental performance. Clare travels the world, sharing her ideas with some of the world's top ballet companies and performers. On the podcast, Clare dives into her ideas and shares some practical ways that we all can apply mindful techniques to make our daily performance stronger — both on and off the stage.   Moving Quotes: "I'm going to look at aspects of the movement that would be ideal — that I'd have a great verticality, that I'd fly in my split jump. We need to focus in on those things and not focus on trying to adjust bits of our bodies. And that's when we get measurable differences." "Affirmations are based on the same principle [as setting external focus]. You have an idea that's bigger than you, and you can imagine it. Then it becomes a roadmap for you or for your life where you can relax a little bit. That roadmap guides and facilitates the realization of our goal." "If you come to mind training very late, it's like learning a new language. We have to start using less effort. It's less effort, actually. But more focus." "I was convinced that working with the power of the mind would have enormous benefits for dancers today." "The more complex the skill you're attempting, the more effect you're going to have from introducing specific attentional strategies to what you do." "Dance as a lifelong tool for wellbeing is an area of huge growth at the moment. Particularly because there are so many chronic diseases and problems that conventional medicine doesn't know how to address." "When we guide our attention in a particular way, the benefits of doing that are physical and mental." "If you are very lucky and have a great intuitive teacher, you have someone who talks about breath, energy, and focus. But for most of us, that's not taught at all."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:25: Clare explains the beginnings of her interest in applying Eastern mindfulness principles to dance and movement.  8:47: Clare discusses the modern science that reinforces these millennia-old Eastern principles. 12:33: Guss-West describes the measurable differences that are observed in athletes and performers who apply these mind practices to their art. 19:49: Guss-West discusses visualization and how visualization fits into the Eastern idea of setting an external focus. 27:30: Clare explains the origins of her book and what she's seeking to accomplish in sharing her learnings and practices with others. 33:34: Guss-West describes her dance therapy work and explains precisely how dance and movement provide incredible health benefits. 40:44: Clare discusses her work across multiple organizations, all serving as platforms to share knowledge around mindfulness and movement.   Bullet List of Resources –  Clare Guss-West Personal Website LinkedIn Facebook Dance & Creative Wellness Foundation Company Website Facebook

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra interviews Betsy McBride, Co-founder and Director of Marketing at Rezonance Athletics — a sustainable athletic wear line that she started alongside her fiancé. In addition to her career as an entrepreneur, McBride is a performer with the American Ballet Theater (ABT). This incredible combination of careers has landed her on the cover of Pointe Magazine and has garnered her multiple dance-related accolades. In addition to all of this, McBride is a fully certified teacher through the ABT National Training Curriculum. Betsy's story is a story of resilience and grit. As if a full-time dance career wasn't enough to keep her busy, Betsy decided to build a business from scratch and, now, spends her days shifting mindsets from dancer to entrepreneur. On the podcast, Betsy is honest about the highs and lows of entrepreneurship but speaks to her love of dance and motion as the foundation for both of her incredible careers.   Moving Quotes: "The whole business-building process has been a learning experience. Every time we do something, we learn as we go." "Learn as much as you can. Be as versatile as you can. Never put yourself in a box and say, 'I'm just doing classical ballet.' Because I don't think any classical ballet companies do that anymore." "If you feel like you don't want to get complacent and you want to push yourself artistically and work with different people, it's important to push yourself to branch out."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:25: Betsy walks through her journey as a dancer and reflects on her first time dancing in person post-pandemic. 5:47: Betsy discusses any anxieties or hesitations during her move to New York City as a young dancer. 7:43: McBride shares some advice for dancers as they transition from one company to another. 13:28: McBride shifts gears to her entrepreneurial endeavors and explains the birth of her sustainable apparel line. 17:56: Betsy reflects on the biggest challenges of her entrepreneurial journey thus far. 20:07: Betsy, who works as both a full time dancer and business owner, discusses the challenges of shifting mindsets from one job to the other. 22:22: Betsy speaks to trends that she is currently seeing inside of the dance world and discusses the value of versatility. 27:47: McBride shares some tips for any dancers as they prepare for auditions or performances. 29:16: McBride retells an on-stage failure and how she managed to overcome that mishap. 31:39: Betsy discusses what's next for her, both personally and professionally, and shares some last bits of advice for listeners.   Bullet List of Resources –  Betsy McBride Personal Website Instagram Rezonance Athletics Company Website Instagram

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra speaks with Andrea Orris, a seasoned gymnast and veteran collegiate gymnastics coach who is now using her experience to teach the “ins and outs” of effective stretching and to advocate for the fair treatment of gymnasts around the country. Orris, a Los Angeles native, competed in Division 1 collegiate gymnastics before turning her attention towards coaching. She is also a fitness model and a flexibility instructor. In fact, her flexibility courses blossomed during the pandemic, due in large part to her expert social media presence. Andrea is passionate about physical fitness, but she knows that a healthy body is nothing without a strong mind. Andrea has rightly spent her life focusing on both the physical and mental and, as a victim of abuse herself, is setting an example for others on the value of being open and transparent about strengths and struggles. On the podcast, Andrea discusses her own career and her long journey into mental and physical prosperity.   Moving Quotes: "Are you healthy on the inside? Do you look like what you want to look like? That's all that matters.” "People have a misconception about flexibility classes. They say, 'Oh, I can't take your class because I'm not flexible.' But that's the entire point. It's fine if you're not flexible. That's actually even better." "The more we keep talking and sharing our experiences and educating each other, the better chance we have at preventing [abuse] from every happening again." "I've always been a very private person with what I'm going through emotionally and mentally. Until this year. I post about myself a lot because people want to read about genuine people... I've started being very honest with what I'm thinking and feeling." "Setting small attainable goals every day is so much more intrinsically rewarding and more motivating than setting unrealistic goals or goals where you're comparing yourself to someone else. Then you get really discouraged and quit altogether." "If something is in your heart and you're passionate about it and you want to do it, go for it. You have to let go of all of the outside voices." "To keep up a professional Instagram, you have to keep your engagement up. You need to be posting constantly. You do have to work hard to do it. Producing content takes a lot of work... I try to always have something on my Story." "My Instagram is now my resume. It used to not be like that."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:20: Andrea walks through her accomplished gymnastics career and how she ended up in Los Angeles as a gymnastics coach. 8:14: Andrea discusses her time as a flexibility instructor and how COVID actually expanded her business. 11:13: Orris explains why she believes flexibility is such a growing trend in 2021. 15:28: Orris explains how her career as a gymnastics coach and flexibility instructor morphed into a modeling career. 19:19: Andrea shares some valuable tips on getting the most out of a professional Instagram account. 24:23: Andrea, who shares about her struggles via her social media accounts, describes the freedom of letting others shoulder your burdens. 27:47: Orris explains how having a positive body image and goal setting can drastically impact a person's mental state. 37:06: Orris shares some tips on successful visualization during times of meditation. 41:01: Andrea closes her interview by giving some tips for anyone currently embarking on a new career journey.   Bullet List of Resources –  Andrea Orris Instagram

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra interviews Michelle Seiler Tucker, the Founder and CEO of Seiler Tucker Incorporated. She and her firm have sold over a thousand businesses in nearly every vertical. She has spent two decades in mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and holds the title of Mergers and Acquisitions Master Intermediary, as well as being a Certified Mergers and Acquisitions Professional and a Certified Senior Business Analyst. She also, herself, owns multiple businesses. Michelle is a seasoned M&A professional and, on the podcast, offers nearly an hour of free M&A consulting for anyone who owns a business, is thinking about starting a business, or who is proactively looking to sell their current business. The conversation spans many topics, including a discussion on her latest book Exit Rich, foundational tenets to consider when assessing the “sellability” of a company, the importance of knowing when to emotionally detach and sell a business, and much more.   Moving Quotes: "A lot of people look at their businesses like their babies. We have to stop doing that... Treat your business like the valuable asset that it is." "Being in a business is not easy. And trying to sell a business for millions is certainly no easy task. So you have to have a powerful why to keep you motivated and in the game." "If you don't know where you're going, you end up nowhere... Business owners don't plan to fail; they fail to plan. Unless they have a destination in mind, they're driving around in circles — driving up and down the financial hills." "It's not what you know that gets you in trouble; it's what you don't know. And you don't know what you don't know... Learn from other people's mistakes, rather than your own." "To make sure a business is sellable, make sure the business is not centered around you. And make sure all of the data is on paper and not in your head." "Seventy percent of business owners are going out of business because they stop doing A.I.M. — "'Always Innovate and Market.'" "I never recommend someone go and start their own business when there are so many existing businesses for sale. It will probably cost you less money to buy an existing business than to start one."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:26: Michelle discusses her newest book Exit Rich, which lays out foundational concepts around when and how to sell a business. 7:10: Michelle explains how entrepreneurs should mentally prepare when building a business that is sellable and how lack of preparation will only lead to failure. 12:06: Seiler Tucker describes the five different types of business buyers. 14:48: Seiler Tucker discusses the importance of knowing the why — the rationale behind choosing to sell your company. 18:56: Michelle begins to discuss the “six P's,” which are foundational pillars of companies that are primed to sell. 23:23: Michelle spends some time speaking on the most foundational of the six P's — proprietary — and how this singular pillar can multiply the value of a company. 32:31: Seiler Tucker discusses the value of working with a mergers and acquisitions professional like herself versus trying to go it alone. 36:17: Michelle shares some advice for dance studio owners to make their businesses more attractive to buyers. 43:08: Seiler Tucker discusses the importance of knowing when to exit and how some owners have doomed their businesses by refusing to let go. 49:31: Michelle gives information on the benefits and perks of working alongside her company while undergoing a sale.   Bullet List of Resources –  Michelle Seiler Tucker LinkedIn Twitter Exit Rich book Book Website On Amazon Seiler Tucker: The Business Authorities Company Website Twitter Facebook Instagram

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra speaks with Gil Boggs, Artistic Director at Colorado Ballet. Boggs began his career with the Atlanta Ballet before joining American Ballet Theatre, where he served a remarkable 17-year tenure. Boggs has also performed with the Twyla Tharp Dance Company, Baryshnikov and Company, Nureyev and Friends, and has made several guest appearances around the world. Boggs has also presented 15 world premieres and 15 Colorado Ballet premieres by renowned choreographers such as Twyla Tharp and Lar Lubovitch. From the outset, Gil has been in love the state of Colorado. Having lived and worked in the New York City area for decades, a move to America's heartland was a welcome change. However, from the outset, Gil had to overcome some serious hurdles — not the least of which was leading the company out of its financial struggle. But, because of some grit and determination, Gil did just that. On the podcast, he tells his whole story, including dancing with some of the world's brightest and best, being in a single company for 17 years, and more.    Moving Quotes: "With my staff, we are nurturing dancers. We're not telling them what's wrong and that you have to do this and you have to do that. We are collaborating with these people and getting the best out of them." "People ask me, 'What does it take to get into a company?' You have to be confident. You have to show confidence in yourself... And find inspiration in what you're doing, and you'll grow quickly." [On dancing with American Ballet Theatre] "The choreographers that came through. The rep that came in. It was all so inspiring. And I was able to grow as an artist there." "Over time, I want to see dancers maintain their integrity to the artform. There's a way you go about training yourself, learning a ballet, and performing a ballet. And I'd hate to see people deviate from that form and do it halfway."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:15: Gil discusses his current position as Artistic Director at Colorado Ballet and how he came to join the company. 8:14: Gil explains his earliest moves at the helm of Colorado Ballet and how he turned the company from financial struggle to thriving business, even during a recession. 13:02: Boggs, who took some financial risks early in his time as artistic director, discusses why he decided to “roll the dice” on performing some lesser known works. 14:20: Gil describes some of his earliest hurdles as artistic director and how he overcame. 16:38: Boggs explains why he decided to stay at American Ballet Theatre for so much of his career — a 17-year-long tenure. 20:30: Boggs shares some advice for aspiring dancers that are currently plotting their career paths. 22:59: Gil, who has danced underneath some of the world's best, describes his experience learning from Mikhael Baryshnikov and Twyla Tharp.  25:17: Boggs shares his perspective on how ballet is changing and why certain aspects of the art must remain intact. 26:33: Gil discusses what's next for his company and his eagerness to return to the stage once again. 28:51: Gil shares some extremely practical advice for anyone looking to make a career inside of the world of dance.   Bullet List of Resources –  Gil Boggs LinkedIn Bio on ColoradoBallet.org Colorado Ballet Company Website Instagram Twitter Facebook YouTube

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra interviews Jeffrey Edwards, dance professor at The Juilliard School. During his run as a performer, Jeff was a leading dancer for the New York Ballet, the Zurich Ballet, and the Lyon Opera Ballet. Edwards, who holds a degree from Brown University, has taught for conservatories and professional ballet companies around the world and has taught ballet at Harvard, Cornell, Princeton, Yale, and Brown. Additionally, he's been able to choreograph various works, including the Broadway musical Billy Elliot. Jeff knows that, for the truly successful, learning never ends. And, if any group has pushed him to be a lifelong learner, it's been his students. On the podcast, Jeff reflects on the pride he feels as a Juilliard faculty member, the daily challenge of teaching such talented students, his own run as a student being trained by some of the world's most successful artists, and so much more.   Moving Quotes: "At Juilliard, you have these very curious young adults who are so talented and so steeped in potential — very hungry for information. It makes me want to remain a perpetual student as well. It's so much about the learning... I'm inspired to be in the room with students who are always learning." [On teaching dance to non-dance students] "I love the idea of coming up with language that is inclusive and can really inspire a broader public to be excited about what we do." "The creativity of parenting... I feel like I'm a better parent because of my intense work as an artist — it's informed my parenting in so many ways. And, on the other hand, my experience of parenting translates back to how I am in the studio... I'm really proud of that." "I would encourage everyone to not be fearful that pursuing [balance in life] is going to take away from what you do well." "This is how ballet is changing - there's much more room for dialogue than there ever has been." [When looking for mentors] "Reach out and don't be shy. And ask for help." "Assumptions can be our enemy in many ways, especially in ballet." "Put yourself out there and be curious."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:17: Jeffrey discusses his role as dance professor at the esteemed Juilliard School. 4:37: Jeffrey explains how Juilliard provides dance education across a wide array of styles and how his very own students push him to be a better dancer, teacher, and person. 8:28: Edwards explains how, to his surprise, often non-dance students are the once that press him to think more deeply about the art. 11:33: Edwards, who has performed across the world, compares dancing for a top American company versus a top European company. 16:02: Jeffrey describes his time being coached by the legendary Mikhail Baryshnikov. 19:23: Edwards shines light on his role models and mentors and shares some advice for anyone looking for mentorship opportunities. 24:08: Jeffrey, who is an extremely accomplished and decorated performer and teacher, discusses what gives him the most pride. 26:26: Jeffrey shares some wisdom on finding balance in life, as many different pursuits try to dominate your attention. 28:03: Jeffrey looks to the future, expressing eagerness to return to the post-pandemic stage. 31:07: Edwards gives some final advice for listeners who are looking to pursue their lives' dreams.   Bullet List of Resources –  Jeffrey Edwards On the Juilliard website

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra speaks with Roberto Campanella and Kelly Shaw of ProArteDanza. At the company, Roberto and Kelly serve as artistic director and dance artist, respectively. Roberto — a native of Rome, Italy — trained at some of Italy's finest schools before having a successful career as a professional dancer. Roberto also has extensive experience working in film. Kelly, who is also a choreographer, is well respected around Toronto for her art and works as a Pilates, Barre, and dance instructor in addition to her on-stage work. Both Roberto and Kelly feel pandemic pains — being absent from the stage for over 15 months. However, they both are looking forward to brighter days that are approaching ever-quickly and are more convinced than ever that, in a world that was largely absent of the arts over the past year, art is needed now more than ever. On the podcast, Kelly and Roberto walk through their own personal journeys in the arts, share career advice, look to the future, and so much more.   Moving Quotes: "The world needs art and beauty and expression more than ever. Even on the hard days, remember that we're more necessary than ever." "The bumps along your professional journey are there for your greatest learnings... They are the greatest gifts you'll ever have." "We see the term 'passion' often in the more contemporary meaning, which is love towards what you do. But what about the biblical sense of 'passion,' which is sacrificing? You have to sacrifice for what you love." "As a young dancer, you don't know anything, but you have the capacity to learn and hold everything. If you're driven, you have space to learn and not be knocked down by the 'no's." "Being imperfect but still maintaining that hunger and passion can propel and become an engine for you. That has shaped me as a professional dancer." "No passion; no contract."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:52: Roberto describes ProArteDanza and its upcoming summer intensive program and briefly discusses his own dance career. 7:52: Kelly, who holds multiple jobs in the Toronto area, shares how she juggles so many roles and gives some history on how she came to ProArteDanza. 13:14: Roberto, who has been with ProArteDanza since its founding, discusses the company's passion and how it has sustained itself over the years. 15:20: Kelly walks through her process on choosing a company to work for and reminds listeners that all our challenges in life are for our good. 19:11: Kelly shares some advice for young people looking to build their careers in dance. 26:45: Roberto describes his company's upcoming summer intensive program — an extremely challenging but rewarding program that will end in granting a participant a company contract. 29:41: Kelly explains what makes a dancer tough — physically, mentally, and spiritually. 33:52: Roberto discusses his most proud accomplishment — his successful career as a film actor, including his involvement in an Oscar-nominated film. 39:48: Kelly and Roberto speak to their next projects and upcoming goals. 43:54: Kelly and Roberto share some final words of advice for aspiring choreographers and dancers.   Bullet List of Resources –  Roberto Campanella LinkedIn Instagram On IMDB Kelly Shaw Instagram Article in Toronto Guardian ProArteDanza Company Website Instagram YouTube Facebook Info on Summer Intensive Program

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra interviews Benjamin Goodly, the host of The Count 9 Podcast and a senior process engineer at a Fortune 100 company based out of Cincinnati, Ohio. Prior to his current work, Goodly was a performer, boasting a diverse career. Benjamin's move from the stage to the office was a smooth transition; however, he's fully aware of the myths surrounding career transitions for dancers. And, now, he's looking to debunk those myths via his podcast. For an artist, leaving the stage is like dying a death — a death that sometimes feels as painful as actual death. Benjamin's podcast hopes to ease those painful feelings, and he hopes to encourage transitioning dancers through hearing from fellow dancers who have successfully transitioned to different careers. On the podcast, Benjamin discusses his podcast and the importance of the topic, as well as his process in developing his podcast from the first idea to the first episode.   Moving Quotes: "Martha Graham is often quoted, 'Every dancer dies twice. The first death is more painful.' The first death is referring to the career transition." "My biggest aspiration is that, through the podcast, dancers would become so empowered that retiring dancers become a hot commodity across the entire business and nonprofit economy." "One of the great things about having a really well-rounded career is that you are able to be a little more free and loose with your own personal time." "When you can clearly answer your 'why,' that's more than enough information to keep going."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:12: Goodly, a fellow podcast host, discusses his podcast and the important conversation that his podcast engages in. 6:28: Benjamin, who is a veteran dancer, speaks to his own dance career and why he decided to ultimately step away. 12:58: Benjamin describes his thought process when weighing the option of returning to school after the stage — and speaks to his love of pro and con lists. 16:15: Goodly, who is now a senior chemical engineer, discusses his unique motivations behind pursuing engineering. 18:51: Benjamin walks through the process of bringing his podcast idea to life. 23:20: Benjamin discusses the ultimate goal that he is looking to achieve through his podcast.   Bullet List of Resources –  Benjamin Goodly Personal Website Instagram YouTube Twitter The Count 9 Podcast   Podcast Site   Instagram Facebook

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra speaks with Emmaly Wiederholt, Founder and Editor of Stance on Dance — an online publication that interviews dancers who are members of marginalized groups. Wiederholt, a veteran dancer, holds a master's degree in journalism from the University of Southern California. She is also a published author, whose book features the stories of dancers over the age of fifty. She's currently working on her second book that focuses on dancers with disabilities. Emmaly understands the value of gathering multiple perspectives in the arts and has dedicated her life to doing so. Emmaly knows that, often, those with the deepest, richest, longest and most complex life experiences are those who can bring the truest art to the stage. Yet, while this may be true, these stories often are overshadowed by others who claim the spotlight. On the podcast, Emmaly walks through each of her unique efforts to put these rich stories on full display and explains why this work is not only important but is critical to the art.   Moving Quotes: "If art is based off of experience, then the more life experience you have, the more powerful and rich your art practice becomes." "In dance, this emphasis on youth is harmful — harmful from a mental health standpoint, but also harmful in terms of the artistry and richness of our field." "I benefit from dance, not only in terms of physically and emotionally. But also in terms of building community. I make this joke that, when you show up to a dance class, you just have friends! That kind of community building can be very difficult for lots of adults." "Dance is empowering. It's empowering to be in your body and to feel your body moving. And to be in relationship with people around you... It's empowering to know that you can still show up, be in your body, and be creative." "I find that visuals are a really necessary tool for people to engage. Because dance is generally a really visual art form — most people go as audience members and watch before they take their first dance class. So it felt important to show visuals in both of my books."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:03: Emmaly explains the story behind Stance on Dance and the goal that the organization is looking to accomplish. 6:27: Emmaly discusses her published book — Beauty is Experience: Dancing 50 and Beyond — and how the book came about. 11:56: Wiederholt explains why she believes dance is an important art for people of all ages but, specifically, for those above the age of 50. 13:52: Wiederholt speaks to the trend of dance studios opening, specifically for those in older age groups. 17:49: Emmaly describes what she hopes to accomplish through her Beauty is Experience book. 19:09: Emmaly discusses her second work — Discussing Disability in Dance — and how that book came to be. 23:02: Wiederholt shares her goals for this book and how she hopes readers are impacted. 25:29: Emmaly, who holds a master's degree in journalism, discusses the impact that her education has had on her life and gives some advice for those considering advanced degrees. 28:59: Emmaly shares some simple and important advice for all podcast listeners.   Bullet List of Resources –  Emmaly Wiederholt LinkedIn Beauty is Experience on Amazon Stance on Dance   Company Site Instagram Facebook Twitter    

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra interviews TaKiyah Wallace, Founder and Executive Director at Brown Girls Do Ballet. In 2012, TaKiyah, who is a former gifted-education teacher, shifted her life's mission to empowering women and girls through the arts. Her nonprofit organization — Brown Girls Do Ballet — began as a photo project after searching for diverse classical ballet programs in Dallas, Texas. This small project has now grown into a full-blown organization. She was the recipient of the Girls Rising Creative Challenge Award and has been featured as a 2020 Adidas Gamechanger. Takiyah — who has been featured in the Huffington Post, the Washington Post, The Kelly Clarkson Show, Dance Magazine, and Dance Teacher Magazine — understands the value of celebration and positivity. And, now, she spends her entire life inspiring young girls to do great things — just as she has done. On the podcast, TaKiyah discusses the birth of her company, the great work that her company is doing throughout the world today, and the immense value of celebration.   Moving Quotes: "We are in the business of celebrating. We don't call people out for things that aren't happening. We celebrate things that are actually happening." "Eight years ago, I would have never predicted that Brown Girls Do Ballet would be here. I didn't feel like it was my place to be in this world, telling these stories. But I'm here now, and I want to make sure I'm doing my best to tell things the right way." "Reprimand me in private. Give me critical feedback in private. Celebrate and amplify, in public, the people who are doing the right things." "At the most minute level, I'm helping young people get to where they want to go." "When you have people who are 'doing the thing' and who are willing to reach back and help that next generation, it goes to show what is possible." "As long as you keep our core values intact, it's okay to say 'no' to certain things." "Just keep doing. Just keep working. Chip away until you get it how you want it to be."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:33: TaKiyah gives a history of her empowering nonprofit Brown Girls Do Ballet. 10:27: TaKiyah speaks to her company's booming Instagram account (140k+ followers) and briefly reiterates the mission of Brown Girls Do Ballet. 11:55: Wallace discusses the importance of mentors and gives specific examples of how mentorship has played a huge part in her company. 15:50: Wallace, who has a contagious energy, explains how she celebrates her work and gets others excited about the work as well. 21:02: Wallace describes what was the most difficult part of founding her company. 26:44: TaKiyah, who was an educator prior to an entrepreneur, shares how she was able to carry some principles from her first career into her second career. 33:30: Wallace shares the backstory on her nomination as a 2020 Adidas Gamechanger. 35:56: Wallace discusses some short term goals for Brown Girls Do Ballet. 38:24: TaKiyah shares with listeners how they can get involved, specifically, with supporting the mission of Brown Girls Do Ballet. 40:46: TaKiyah gives some advice around building careers and pursuing dreams.   Bullet List of Resources –  TaKiyah Wallace Personal Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Twitter Brown Girls Do Ballet   Company Site Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter    

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra speaks with Val Syganevich, Producer and Owner at Freckled Sky — a nationally renowned multimedia creative agency. Val opened his first creative agency in Ukraine in 2002, and in 2010, his group did their first ever project with multimedia. In 2013, upon a move to the United States, he established his current agency, Freckled Sky. In 2015, they partnered with America's Got Talent to produce a one-of-a-kind interactive water projection performance and advanced to the finals in New York City. Val has worked with a variety of clients including Pink, James Arthur, Mercedes Benz, Ferrari, and many more. Val is a creative wizard and has been praised far and wide for his work. In fact, even radio icon Howard Stern referred to Val as a “genius.” On the podcast, Val recounts his entire journey from Ukraine to the United States to the grand stage of America's Got Talent and discusses his unique perspectives on pushing creative bounds, keeping teams motivated, educating yourself, and much more.   Moving Quotes: "We need to understand that there are no limits — no walls in front of us. You need to understand what the rules are and why they are wrong... Make the decision to overcome limitations. And be polite." “When we decided to sell everything and pursue our dream, we just believed in what we were going to do. And felt that it was the right move." "The best way to break through with investors is to simply create a good product. Then people will listen." "I believe education really matters... and having a really wide look at everything. Making sure you understand all of the small details of the world." Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:46: Val recounts his incredible journey into the finals of America's Got Talent. 12:35: Val explains what it felt like to advance to the America's Got Talent finals. 16:21: Syganevich, who took a huge risk selling everything he owned to move to the United States, describes his mindset when he decided to make this transition. 20:34: Val explains why he believes a broad and deep education is critical to life success. 24:02: Syganevich discusses the types of projects that he's been working on recently and how the pandemic has forced him to get extremely innovative. 27:11: Syganevich describes the biggest challenges when sharing ideas or visions with external parties, such as investors, and reveals the key to ensuring you make an impact. 30:59: Val explains how he keeps his team motivated and ever-learning. 33:14: Val, a consummate creator, shares some critical advice for anyone looking to leave their mark on the creative world.   Bullet List of Resources –  Val Syganevich LinkedIn Instagram Twitter Freckled Sky   Company Site Facebook Instagram YouTube Vimeo    

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra interviews Deanna Seay, ballet instructor at the School of the Richmond Ballet. Deanna was trained at the School of Richmond Ballet and the North Carolina School of the Arts. Upon graduation, Deanna joined the Miami City Ballet, where she enjoyed an incredible 21-year tenure and was promoted to Principal Dancer of the ballet in 1998. In 2010, Deanna began teaching full-time at the Cary Ballet Conservatory and, later, at the Boston Ballet School. Now, she has come full circle and is investing in students at the School of the Richmond Ballet, where her entire journey began. Deanna's career is unique in a variety of ways, and because of this, she can share a rich and unique perspective on life, both on stage and off stage. On the podcast, Deanna generously shares her wisdom along a variety of topics, including how dance has changed over the past few decades, why it's important to stay “present” and enjoy every moment, how to build a marathon career at one single dance company, and so much more.   Moving Quotes: "Savor every moment. Savor the good moments. Savor the bad moments. Because the day will come when you look back on it as a really meaningful part of your life." "Everything has its time. You can't push any faster than what's going to happen. You can work hard. You can work smart... But you have to trust the people who are there — your director, your ballet mistress... That they will see you when you're ready and use you to the best of your ability... That's a hard lesson." "Ballet is something elemental. It's like math. It's the underlying language of so many things." "Dance will always evolve and reflect the current mood — something that's going on in our lives at any given moment. That's why I'm interested to see what comes out post-pandemic." "When you're teaching while you're dancing, you're still focused on yourself. When you stop dancing, your focus changes." "If you can speak the language of dance clearly, then you will be able to communicate what you want to say clearly. And you can reach the widest number of audience members possible." Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:13: Deanna talks through her journey as a dancer and how she eventually ended up where her journey all started. 7:22: Deanna discusses how the School of the Richmond Ballet has changed over the years, both physically and in terms of curriculum. 11:08: Deanna explains how an academy adheres to the traditions of its parent dance company through the years, while still innovating. 13:41: Seay discusses how dance is core to all of us and reflects what's going on at any given time — which is why she's excited to see what comes out, post-pandemic. 17:49: Seay, who experienced a lengthy career at the Miami City Ballet, shares the key to sticking with one company for an extended period. 22:07: Seay discusses her transition from the stage to the classroom and speaks to the overlap when she was teaching while still dancing. 27:35: Deanna explains what's next for her and for her students, post-pandemic. 30:37: As she looks back at her long and fruitful career, Deanna shares some veteran advice for anyone aspiring to or currently living in the dance industry.   Bullet List of Resources –  Deanna Seay LinkedIn On RichmondBallet.com The Richmond Ballet    Company Site Instagram Facebook Twitter YouTube    

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra speaks with Raymond Rodriguez, Abbott Academy Director at The Joffrey Ballet. Raymond, a New York City native, was trained at the American Ballet Theater on full scholarship and eventually led a high-profile career at the Cleveland Ballet. Upon retirement from the stage, Rodriguez moved into a dance education career with The Joffrey Ballet. In addition to his dance work, Raymond is a Screen Actors Guild member and has appeared in films and TV shows such as Rent, The Smurfs, and Dancing with the Stars. As academy director, Raymond is looking to make dance more accessible for all. In his own words, ballet “enthralled” Rodriguez only after participating in the art form for six months. And, now, Raymond is hoping to share this joy with everyone. On the podcast, Raymond shares his own story and discusses his vision to make dance a more open, inclusive, and collaborative art form.   Moving Quotes: "How do we make our academy inclusive for all? It's by communication — making all feel welcome. As I said earlier, Joffrey for all." "I see our academy working on making dance accessible to all." "Always study as a student, even if you are a professional. Work as a student. And expose yourself to all facets of the art form... Be curious... Don't just think that a dance education is studying the art form of dance physically. Open up your horizons into learning all aspects of the art form." "After six months at my dance school, I was enthralled with ballet. I knew that this was my life. To this day, I'm still in the art form." "I don't walk around with a pair of 'rose-colored glasses' on. I know there are obstacles to your dreams. But with hard work, you can persevere and succeed... The dance will not be stopped. We will continue on." "Work hard. And if you have that dream, you can make it happen." Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:40: Raymond explains his role with the Joffrey Ballet and how he came to be Abbott Academy Director. 6:27: Raymond discusses his vision for the academy, which he helped develop in partnership with a high-profile consulting and strategy firm. 9:50: Raymond discusses how his academy's summer intensive programs truly set his school apart from others. 12:36: Rodriguez explains how he manages to live and teach the values of the Joffrey Ballet to each student that goes through the academy. 15:13: Rodriguez walks through his personal dance journey and shares the incredible story of how he got accepted into his first dance school. 24:21: Raymond shares some advice for dancers who are looking to build a successful career. 26:08: In retrospect, Rodriguez discusses what he is most proud of through his seasoned career as a professional dancer. 28:40: Raymond looks to the future and gives a glimpse of where he hopes the Joffrey Academy of Dance is five years down the road.  31:16: Rodriguez looks at the broader world of dance and discusses where he thinks the dance world is trending.   Bullet List of Resources –  Raymond Rodriguez LinkedIn On Joffrey.org The Joffrey Ballet    Company Site Instagram Facebook Twitter YouTube    

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra interviews Dr. Sheyi Ojofeitimi — Interim Director of Therapy Services at Alvin Ailey American Dance Foundation, CEO and Owner of Synthesis Physical Therapy, and Co-Founder of the Dance Ready Project. Dr. Sheyi is working on her third decade of licensed physical therapy and, in addition to her many job roles, has provided backstage coverage for several Broadway shows. She has also researched and authored or co-authored 18 journal articles and has served as a reviewer for the Journal of Dance Medicine and Science. Dr. Ojofeitimi was first introduced to professional dance at age 16, when she was awed by the “tricks” of the on-stage dancers. She truly could not understand how bodies could move as these dancers’ bodies moved. However, Dr. Ojofeitimi came to realize one important truth — dancers can move because they are athletes. And she has dedicated her life to reminding dancers that they are athletes. On the podcast, Dr. Ojofeitimi discusses how she found her passion in dance physical therapy and, along the way, shares some practical tips around stretching, warming up, and finding joy in mobility.   Moving Quotes: "Dancers are passionate people. They are athletes. I help see themselves as athletes... They need to be taken as seriously as their sporting counterparts." "There's a criminal and a victim. It's not the criminal who is screaming. It's always the victim. The purpose of therapy is to find out who the real criminal is. And oftentimes, that criminal is living on the opposite side of the victim!" "You have to understand that warming up and stretching are completely different things... Warming up is anything you do to increase your tissue temperature and get ready to move." "Find that one thing you would do every day without getting paid for, and then you will find your passion. Physical therapy was it for me." "Stretching goes way beyond your body. It goes into your mind. It goes into your spirit. It goes into your gut." "There's no perfect body. You are your perfect body. What you have is perfectly made for you... Stop trying to copy somebody else. Do you. Learn you." "I'm not a fan of overstretching — or of putting your legs up on something and then pushing down. When your body is ready to go there, it will. Don't force your body beyond any point that it wants to." "I'm not a fan of fancy equipment. What does your body say? Give it time. If you train it, it will do you well. Don't force it."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:03: Dr. Ojofeitimi discusses the first moment she truly encountered dance and realized that dancers are indeed athletes doing incredible things with their bodies. 7:21: Dr. Ojofeitimi explains how dancers should start thinking like athletes, in order to avoid injury and to perform at optimal level. 11:03: Dr. Ojofeitimi discusses the main ingredient to avoiding injury and gives some tips on effective stretching. 17:15: Dr. Ojofeitimi shares some advice for dancers with hypermobility. 18:16: Dr. Ojofeitimi explains how stretching doesn’t require fancy equipment and can be accomplished using random items from around the house. 21:25: Dr. Ojofeitimi discusses how stretching and mobility can change — and has changed — the lives of non-dancers. 26:26: Dr. Ojofeitimi retells the incredible story of how she first got involved with Alvin Ailey American Dance Foundation, where she’s now been for two decades. 34:50: Dr. Ojofeitimi discusses the importance of always keeping your eyes out for your passion — and shares advice on how to ultimately find that passion. 36:35: Dr. Ojofeitimi describes her three companies and how the three intersect with each other. 46:51: Dr. Ojofeitimi looks at the future and discusses what is next for her over the next few years.   Bullet List of Resources –  Dr. Sheyi Ojofeitimi LinkedIn Alvin Ailey American Dance Foundation   Company Site Instagram Facebook YouTube   Dance Ready Project   Company Site Instagram Facebook   Synthesis Physical Therapy   Company Site Instagram Facebook    

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra speaks with Clara Superfine, a dancer with the Dutch National Ballet in Amsterdam. Clara, a North Carolina native, attended the University of North Carolina School of the Arts and the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School and danced with the American Ballet Theater Studio Company for one year prior to joining the Dutch National Ballet. Clara is also an avid illustrator and showcases her work through the Superfine Collective, which merges design and ballet. Over the past year, Clara has realized that dancers must exercise their voices as well as they do their bodies. Determined to use art to empower herself and others, Clara has set out a path to connect with dancers globally who are engaged in activism and who want to ensure more diversity and inclusion in the dance world. On the podcast, Clara discusses her belief that artists have the responsibility to drive change in their respective fields — something that she, herself, is seeking to do with ballet.    Moving Quotes: "Artists must be at the forefront of change in their artform. I truly believe in the power that we have, as artists, to make an impact on our society. That we can be change makers." "Every day, I ask myself, 'What do I want from this day? Do you love it still?' Because the dance world can be very difficult. And the thing that makes me most proud is that I still love to move. And I seek to discover something new, rather than just being successful." "I feel inspired by my work. I love dance more than ever. And I look forward to going into the theater every day." "As a dancer growing up in the dance world, it's really important to stay open to all different theories and teaching forms and techniques... I try to keep myself in a constant learning state." "When auditioning, the number one thing is trusting yourself and being confident in what you know and what you're doing... Trust that you've done the work and these companies would be lucky to have you." "I just want to be true to my dance and why I love to dance. I just want to share myself through this beautiful artform."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 2:38: Clara walks through her entire journey from humble North Carolina to the Dutch National Ballet. 6:08: Clara describes her experience adapting to a completely different nation and culture at the young age of 19. 9:54: Superfine shares some wisdom around adapting to a new dance company, particularly one in a foreign country or location. 11:59: Superfine gives some advice around making sure your auditions are memorable and effective. 13:09: Clara, an avid learner, shares her thoughts on the one key component to learning as a dancer. 15:22: Clara gives some advice for staying healthy while traveling on tour. 18:18: Superfine, who is also an illustrator, discusses her other passion, the Superfine Collective, where she merges design and illustration with ballet and dance. 21:23: Clara discusses her efforts towards furthering diversity and inclusion in the world and, specifically, within the world of dance. 25:37: Superfine shares what she is most proud of from her entire career thus far. 28:37: Clara looks towards the future and shares some general and specific goals for herself.   Bullet List of Resources –  Clara Superfine Instagram LinkedIn Dutch National Ballet   Company Site Instagram Facebook Twitter YouTube   Superfine Collective   Instagram Facebook    

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra interviews Virginia Johnson — artistic director at Dance Theatre of Harlem. Prior to taking over as the artistic director, Virginia’s run with Dance Theater of Harlem spanned 28 long years. In fact, she was one of the founding members of the company in the late 60s. Upon retirement, she returned to university to pursue a degree in journalism — a step that led to the creation of Pointe Magazine, where she was the magazine’s first editor-in-chief from 2000 to 2009. And, in 2010, at the request of Harlem’s co-founder Arthur Mitchell, she took over as artistic director. Virginia’s dive into ballet happened at a tumultuous time in our nation’s history, as the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s was in full force. In her earliest years, she was discouraged from ballet and was told she’d never succeed, as the art was largely White-dominated. However, with the help of courageous people like Arthur Mitchell, she found her groove and is now carrying his legacy from generation to generation. On the podcast, Johnson tells the full story of perseverance, hope, belief, and a deep love of the art.   Moving Quotes: "Ballet doesn't belong to one group of people; ballet belongs to everyone. Arthur Mitchell just had to create opportunity." "Arthur Mitchell created Dance Theater of Harlem out of inspiration and respect and out of a desire to emulate Dr. Martin Luther King's ability to use his talents to make change in the world." "To me, dance is essential. It's the life and death of the spirit... Art is glue for us humans." "Ballet is difficult and teaches you really important things like focus and self-discipline and perseverance." "As an artistic director, you must be an omnivore, taking in all kinds of information and experiences because you bring that to your work." "You have to learn how to rely on yourself. To know where the boundary is where, if it's not coming from outside but it's important to you, you have to find it in yourself." "Ballet is changing. I don't want it to lose its beauty and tradition, but it needs to be an art form that is empowering." "In the pandemic, the inability to do what we are meant to do is a great gift. Because coming out of this, we will have new tools for connecting to people."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:46: Virginia walks through her incredible journey of overcoming adversity — of being a Black dancer in a predominantly White artform — and eventually taking over the company that first showed her how to dream big. 10:54: Virginia reflects on, now, her role as artistic director of Dance Theatre of Harlem and how the task is daunting and intimidating and stressful yet joyful and surreal. 16:52: Johnson discusses the historic lack of women in dance leadership yet reflects on the winds of change in the dance world and how this trend is beginning to reverse. 20:59: Johnson discusses her nine years spent with Pointe Magazine and the incredible story of how she landed that role in the first place. 26:02: Virginia describes her views on role models and the importance of self-sufficiency. 28:56: Johnson discusses what’s next for the Dance Theatre of Harlem as we all hopefully march towards the post-pandemic era.  32:15: Virginia shares some advice for aspiring artistic directors and describes the importance of being an avid learner.   Bullet List of Resources –  Virginia Johnson LinkedIn Dance Theatre of Harlem   Company Site Instagram Facebook Twitter YouTube    

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra speaks with Julia Rhoads — founder, director, and producer at Lucky Plush Productions and lecturer and dance advisor at the University of Chicago. Julia is a seasoned dancer and artist, having danced and choreographed at a wide variety of companies. Her work has been featured in Dance Magazine and other prominent publications. Now, Julia leads her dance company — Lucky Plush Productions — which offers a unique blend of different arts disciplines and has toured globally, including performances in New Zealand and Cuba.  Julia is a lover of all different types of art, and that love is portrayed through her company’s unique work. On the podcast, that love shines through, as she discusses her company’s unique style, her experiences touring the world, why her formal education has advantaged her in the dance community, and why continuously making art is critical to life success and human flourishing.   Moving Quotes: "When I approach my work, I think of it as a mix of the intellectual side and the artistic side... I think the best way to learn is both the intellectual pursuit and the embodied pursuit." "Now, there is such an emphasis on the arts in non-arts fields. Thinking outside of the box — having a creative approach to big problems — is incredibly important." “There's something unique about Lucky Plush’s artistic vision in that we are very interdisciplinary... We're drawing from a lot of different languages to move the work forward." "I'm so grateful that I had a lot of different experiences in a lot of different fields because I brought all of that to my work with Lucky Plush." "We always want to make the work very accessible. So there are through-lines where it might toggle between English and Spanish as a way to not only demonstrate who we are as a company but also to reach people in different ways." "In Chicago, the dance field is so incredibly vibrant. I still feel like I'm scratching the surface of everything here in Chicago... I feel really blessed." "You don't have to go straight into a professional career in order to have professional experience in dance. There are so many opportunities for young dancers to participate in professional work, while working in other fields they're interested in." "A lot of times, it's not until you get to college that you really get to see the field. You really begin to see what's possible in dance."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:29: Julia describes her company — Lucky Plush Productions — and what makes the company unique. 5:15: Julia discusses the events surrounding her company’s receipt of the MacArthur Award for Creative & Effective Institutions and how this award has made her company resilient. 7:27: Rhoads describes why she believes Lucky Plush is the only dance company to have ever received this MacArthur Award. 10:50: Julia, who has toured globally with Lucky Plush, discusses traveling the world with her company and, specifically, how they landed gigs in New Zealand and Cuba. 14:07: Rhoads — a prominent woman leader — shares some thoughts on the importance of women in arts leadership roles. 16:12: Rhoads, who holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees, discusses the advantage that her higher education has given to her work as an artist and teacher. 19:22: Julia shares some advice for any dancers that are weighing the choice of whether to pursue a college degree. 23:15: Rhoads speaks to the many job options for dancers, even if the position isn’t necessarily performance on a stage. 26:56: Rhoads looks to her and her company’s futures and discusses looking forward to returning to shared experiences, post-pandemic. 29:51: Julia rounds out the conversation with some advice for younger dancers on how to be successful in dance and in life.   Bullet List of Resources –  Julia Rhoads LinkedIn Facebook Julia on Lucky Plush site Lucky Plush Productions   Company Site Instagram Facebook Twitter YouTube    

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra interviews Janice Barringer, a veteran dancer, teacher and author of The Pointe Book — the world’s quintessential book on pointe training and pointe shoes. The Pointe Book has printed and sold many tens of thousands of copies since it was first written and just released its fourth edition. Janice is also currently a baller teacher and consultant, most notably with the Los Angeles-based company, Music Works. Janice knows that there is more to a ballet shoe than meets the eye and has made it her life’s goal to uncover and solve all pointe shoe mysteries — a goal which has led her to travel the world and research with some of the ballet world’s biggest and best dancers and companies. On the podcast, Janice retells the incredible story of how her book came to be and shares some important life lessons on overcoming barriers in pursuit of your dreams.   Moving Quotes: "Pointe shoes are quite a mystery. Training dancers to dance on pointe — and to dance on pointe well — is really complicated." "With the book, we wanted to address questions that will help young beginner students, their parents, professional dancers, and professional dancers. And it seems to have worked. Everyone has benefitted on every single level." "There's a difference between teaching a class and giving a class... The way you structure the class and see how everyone's bodies are just a bit different and work to keep others' bodies healthy." "I would rather travel visiting all of these great dancers and meeting these great people around the world than go to the Riviera or the Caribbean or any place. It is so stimulating for me." “You don't choose dance; dance chooses you. You have no options once it gets in your blood." "You want to learn as much as you can about everything that's possible... You have no idea which way your life is going to go." "Most doctors have no idea what ballet dancers go through."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:32: Janice retells the full story of how The Pointe Book came to be — a story which involves traveling the world and meeting with some of the top companies and dancers around the globe. 18:47: Janice describes how the book’s fourth edition — which was recently released on Amazon — is totally different from the book’s first three iterations. 24:01: Barringer describes her beloved co-author who was a tremendous friend and professional during the creation of the book. 26:43: Janice shares multiple stories of how her unending perseverance and passion made her a subject matter expert in the world of dance. 36:07: Barringer discusses what’s next once the book hits shelves, including continuing her work making instructional videos for Music Works Unlimited.   Bullet List of Resources –  Janice Barringer Janice on Music Works Unlimited site The Pointe Book, Fourth Edition on Amazon

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra speaks with Alysia Johnson — a dancer at Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, a co-founder of Black Dance Change Makers, an entrepreneur, a thought-leader, and so much more. A Dallas native, Alysia has been dancing at a competitive level since the age of twelve and ultimately enrolled at The Juilliard School, where she earned a BFA in Dance. While getting her degree, Alysia developed an affinity for community engagement and secured two grants to help create dance education for students and parents in the Dallas area. As mentioned, she is co-founder of Black Dance Change Makers, which seeks to empower Black artists. Alysia’s early exposure to providing dance education to others has given her a genuine love and appreciation for teaching and teachers. At the early age of 19, she was tasked with recruiting quality educators to work at the dance schools that she founded in Dallas and, from then on, has maintained a healthy respect for the art of teaching the art. On the podcast, Johnson speaks to the respect she holds for those who bear the great responsibility of handing down arts from generation to generation.   Moving Quotes: "I had lots of amazing mentors and teachers growing up. And through that, I started to understand the power and responsibility of teachers. And I thought, 'This is what I want. I want to help people and share my knowledge.'" "It's important to me to have dance teachers who aren't just in it to make a living but who also enjoy it and understand the responsibility they have. Because dance is powerful." "When starting a business, matter who is on your side, get down to the purpose of what you're doing. If it's necessary and you can do it out of a spirit of generosity and joy, then I think you should do it, no matter what." "There's no room for doubt on your job application — it's the time to believe in yourself." "Yes, you are auditioning for this company or that school. But you're also auditioning them — seeing if they're the right fit for you. That takes some of the power dynamic out of auditions."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 2:48: Alysia explains how she landed in Chicago and why she’s enjoyed the city thus far. 5:22: Alysia discusses her work as a teacher and philanthropist, bringing dance to communities that may not be exposed to the art. 10:27: Alysia describes being an entrepreneur in the arts world and shares some advice for anyone looking to start their own business. 14:26: Johnson discusses the nonprofit organization that she has co-founded and its mission to empower Black artists. 18:20: Johnson describes her unique relationship with famed ballet dancer Misty Copeland, which blossomed when she moved to New York to attend The Juilliard School. 23:48: Alysia shares some tips for any dancers preparing for auditions and gives a story of where her under-preparation nearly led to a major life redirection. 29:59: Johnson gives some advice on acclimating to a new dance company and a new city. 35:31: Alysia speaks to her future and shares what’s next on the horizon for her, in 2021 and beyond.   Bullet List of Resources –  Alysia Johnson Personal Website Instagram Black Dance Change Makers Company Website Instagram

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra interviews Susan McGreevy-Nichols, Executive Director at the National Dance Education Organization (NDEO). Prior to her current role, she taught part-time at Loyola Marymount University and was a national consultant on Arts Education. Also, as a three-decades-long teacher at Roger Williams Middle School in Providence, Rhode Island, Susan founded and developed that institution’s nationally renowned middle school dance program. On top of all of this, she is an author who has written and published five books.   As an arts educator, Susan realizes the value of harnessing the creating process, both inside and outside of the arts. In fact, during her run as an educator, Susan has developed a cutting-edge reading comprehension strategy that uses text as inspiration for original choreography, created by children. On the podcast, Susan speaks to how the creative process drives everything she does — her work, her books, her curriculum, her life — and how the arts world uses the creative process to train thinkers, even more so than dancers or artists.   Moving Quotes:   "I don't focus well. I multitask. But, because of that, it's made me very creative. That's why I feel that I've become a very creative problem solver. I attack everything thinking, 'Okay, I'm going to make this work.' And it all goes back to the creative process."   "The cognitive processes involved in creating dance really help you be a better learner, a better thinker — a thinking dancer... The work I do focuses on creating thinkers and making dance for everybody."   "As a dance studio owner, you can never replace the face-to-face connection with your students — of being a part of this wonderful community and culture that has been set up. That will never be replaced by Zoom."   "Dance education is very small compared to the other art forms. We really need to stick together."   "As dance teachers, make sure you collaborate with others. Make sure you network with others... It's important that you embrace the fact that all sectors need each other. You can learn so much from so many other people."   "Dancers should always know how to be good teachers."   "It doesn't matter what's going on in the world. There's always a silver lining; there's always a way to push back on things and make them work."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:   3:03: Susan describes all of the activities conducted by her organization, the National Dance Education Organization (NDEO).   5:39: Susan explains how the NDEO unites dance educators across all forms of dance and how the NDEO is different from other dance organizations.   8:50: Susan discusses her observations on how dance improves so many others’ lives and how the creative process is a catalyst for joy in dance.   10:15: McGreevy-Nichols describes her work as a consultant and generally speaks to the importance of incorporating the creative process into learning.   13:00: McGreevy-Nichols speaks to her reading comprehension strategy, which combines the fundamentals of reading with choreographic movement.   15:47: Susan discusses observed patterns on modern dance but explains why virtual technology will never replace face-to-face interaction.   19:55: Susan shares some advice for anyone looking to have a career in dance, either on or off the stage.   24:29: Susan discusses her five published books and speaks to her work teaching inner city children how to dance, which ultimately was the catalyst for her first book.   30:53: McGreevy-Nichols looks towards the future for the NDEO, hoping to foster a more inclusive environment moving ahead.   31:03: Susan shares some last words of encouragement and advice for dance teachers across the world.   Bullet List of Resources –  Susan McGreevy-Nichols LinkedIn On Amazon.com National Dance Education Organization Company Website Facebook Instagram Twitter LinkedIn

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra speaks with Amy Giordano, Founder and Executive Director at The Gus Giordano Jazz Legacy Foundation and Executive Director at Gus Giordano Dance School. Growing up, Amy danced and trained in all styles, while assisting her parents – Gus and Peg Giordano — as they ran the school. However, after a car accident shattered her kneecap, she was forced away from the stage. Amy went on to pursue a Bachelor of Arts from Tulane University and, upon her mother’s passing in 1993, assumed all of her mother’s responsibilities at the school.   On her father’s birthday in July of 2017, Amy founded the Gus Giordano Jazz Legacy Foundation, which offers financial assistance for dancers seeking education at the school. On the podcast, Amy speaks directly to the pride she takes in carrying on her father’s legacy — a legacy of extreme generosity, driven by a love of people and a love of the arts — and how, now, Gus’s spirit and his movement will be carried on from generation to generation.   Moving Quotes:   "The school was never to promote Gus; it was always about promoting the dancers."   "This year, the foundation has become even more important with the pandemic. It's turned the world upside down for so many dancers... I feel so fortunate to help more children in a time where life is so upside down. I can give them the consistency of dance."   "At the school, I tell my dancers, 'Yes, you're all doing the same technique. But I want your influence on it. Because that's what makes it come alive.'"   [On fighting the gender gap in dance leadership] "Just be who you are. And if you feel like you can do the job, do the job. Because anyone that is doing their job will be respected."   "My dad felt very strongly that every dancer should train in every dance style. Because that's going to guarantee you success in a dance career. If you only know how to do one thing, you're limiting yourself."   "Ballet is the foundation for everything. People sometimes want to skip the ballet, straight into hip hop and quick movement. Ballet teaches how the body is connected. If you have the ballet, you can have every style."   "You have to be willing to put the work in and present a product that you're proud of. If you're proud of it, you'll attract people who want to be a part of your whole community."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:   3:40: Amy discusses the Gus Legacy Foundation and the pride she feels in carrying on her father’s generous spirit.   10:49: Amy explains why she believe dance is a universal language that transcends demographic differences and cultural barriers.   15:07: Giordano speaks to the gender gap in dance leadership and how she believes women can overcome the disparity.   17:55: Giordano speaks to the evolution of modern dance and how the change has only cemented her belief that ballet is the backbone of all dance types.   22:52: Giordano briefly walks through the Gus Giordano technique and what makes his specific form unique from others.   27:15: Amy describes how dance teachers and professionals can obtain training on the Giordano dance technique.   29:00: Amy discusses future events for the Giordano Legacy Foundation, as it continues to raise money to ensure dancers receive training who otherwise may not receive it.   Bullet List of Resources –  Amy Giordano LinkedIn Instagram The Gus Giordano Jazz Legacy Foundation Company Website Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra interviews Damien Simon, a renowned musical composer, author, and guest lecturer who has written dozens of scores for multiple genres and sizes of groups around the world. Damien is a graduate of the Purchase Conservatory in New York and the University College of Dublin in Ireland. Damien guest lectures at dance conservatories, consulting his audiences on how to best collaborate when creating art. Damien consolidated these lectures into his published book — The Collaboration — which seeks to help others create well together. When Damien began composing scores for dance and ballet, his music passion found new life. He found himself swept up in the magic of seeing others reacting to his music in a fresh way. However, Damien quickly became aware of the natural friction that occurs between the artists that make the music and the artists that choreograph the dance. On the podcast, Damien shares his experiences producing scores for the stage and shares some key tips on making the most out of every collaboration.    Moving Quotes: "There's a lot of fear with choreographers and artistic directors about working with composers. They're scared it will be a mess. It's the same with composers. It's so easy to overcome that. It's all about communication between the two of you. The more you communicate, the more you get the job done well. And quickly. And leave wanting to do more." "I enjoy using my music as a medium. I see my music. Not only do I hear it. I also see what others get out of it... That's what I love." [On marketing yourself] "No one is going to come to you; you have to go to them. If they don't know who you are, they're not going to come to you."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 2:55: Damien discusses his journey as a musician, from his first instrument to studying on a different continent. 4:45: Damien, who has had a diverse background as a musician, explains what brings him joy when writing music for dance and the arts. 5:53: Simon gives some tips on working well when creating a score alongside a choreographer. 8:11: Simon, a published author, discusses his book — The Collaboration — including why it was written and who it was written to. 12:34: Damien speaks to the natural friction that occurs between the artistic goals of the composer and the choreographer and gives some advice on how to overcome those differences. 14:26: Damien shares some tips on creating a business based on your craft. 17:55: Simon encourages younger musicians to heavily consider which route in music you want to take prior to choosing your path. 21:32: Simon discusses the change that he hopes to see in the arts world through the knowledge that he shares. 24:09: Damien rounds out the conversation by sharing some of his future plans.   Bullet List of Resources –  Damien Simon Personal Website Facebook (Business) Facebook (Personal) YouTube The Collaboration on Amazon

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra speaks with Elizabeth Yntema — the President and Founder of the Dance Data Project, which provides helpful resources and studies of the world of dance, all in an effort to inform gender equity and level the playing field. Elizabeth holds a law degree and serves on multiple nonprofit boards — arts-related and otherwise. Additionally, two years ago, she was one of 450 global participants selected to the final full year training cohort of The Philanthropy Workshop, where she spent a year honing her skills as a philanthropist. The Dance Data Project is a collision of two of Elizabeth’s dearest passions — dance and equal opportunity — and through her company’s work, she’s looking to move the needle towards gender fairness in the arts world. On the podcast, Elizabeth lays out her company’s mission and reveals that the hard data points towards a bleak reality in the world of dance — one where men have been given a clear advantage and women have been shown the backseat. However, Elizabeth is hopeful that her shedding of light on this issue using real, tangible data will make a world of difference.    Moving Quotes: "I started Dance Data Project because I think this is something I can solve. There are a lot of problems in the world that I can't fix... I saw this problem as something that I could attack and succeed at." "People may say, 'This is just ballet. This is how it's always been.' That's actually not true... Most of the big companies in the United States were founded by women." "I think mentorship is critical — whether it's formal or informal. The best way to get better is feedback." "Common sense and the willingness to drill down and keep asking questions gets you a long way." "With big budgets, I think the assumption is that, if a man runs the company, it's somehow more prestigious." "Sometimes you don't know why you're doing what you're doing. You just try something." "At every step of the way, men do have mentors. I think we need to institutionalize it for women."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:27: Elizabeth describes the Dance Data Project and reveals some of the stunning statistics the group has uncovered thus far on the gender gap between women and men in dance. 11:48: Elizabeth offers some suggestions for actions that should be taken based on the data to improve the gender gap in dance. 17:20: Yntema talks on the importance of mentors for female dancers and gives some thoughts on the lopsided number of men in dance leadership positions. 23:18: Based on the data that she’s gathered, Yntema sheds some light on the wealth and resources gap between larger and smaller dance companies.  26:32: Aleksandra and Elizabeth discuss the importance of cultural exchanges and the significance of the Russian ballet. 28:52: Elizabeth walks through her own journey, how she got involved with supporting the arts, and why it’s important for others to do the same. 33:10: Yntema gives a podcast recommendation and discusses the difficulties of entrepreneurship. 36:17: Elizabeth describes the progress that she hopes to see in the next five years.   Bullet List of Resources –  Elizabeth Yntema LinkedIn On Dance Data Project site   Dance Data Project Company Website Instagram Facebook Twitter

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra interviews Jimmy Locust — an artistic director, entrepreneur, dance educator, and philanthropist who has spent his career rubbing shoulders with some of the entertainment industry’s top stars, including Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, Paula Abdul, Justin Bieber, and Joe Jonas, to name a few. Jimmy has also starred in a number of iconic music videos and films and helped choreograph the opening and closing ceremonies at the 1996 Olympic Games. He is currently the founder and owner of Locust Dance Academy and Locust Performing Arts Center. Throughout Jimmy’s incredible career, he has found himself surrounded by some of the world’s most talented artists and stars. Yet Jimmy attributes his success not to conforming to their likenesses but by discovering and embracing his own unique identity as an artist. On the podcast, Locust walks through his journey as an artist and entrepreneur and discusses — among many things — the importance of finding your “thumbprint” and leaving an impression that lasts.   Moving Quotes: "As an artist, you must be true to yourself. You must be aware that you have an original thumbprint. There's no one like you." "I consider it a mission for [dance leaders and teachers] to continue passing the torch." "Always have your reels and information updated on your website where it's accessible. Always keep your stuff current." "You always want to be alert on a job. So that, if there's a special part coming up, the lead choreographer is thinking of you."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:44: Jimmy talks about his work with his school (Locust Dance Academy) and his performing arts center (Locust Performing Arts Center). 4:36: Jimmy speaks to the challenge of developing young dancers through virtual teaching. 6:23: Locust, who has danced for a variety of pop superstars, discusses his close relationship with Janet Jackson. 9:48: Locust, who has rubbed shoulders with the biggest of celebrities, shares what he believes is the secret to having a successful and high-profile dance career. 13:57: Jimmy discusses the importance of investing in others — because what goes around inevitably always comes around. 16:36: Locust retells the incredible story of his involvement in choreographing the opening and closing ceremonies in the 1996 Olympic Games. 19:49: Jimmy and Aleksandra talk about the importance of networking and keeping connections alive — especially in the arts world. 23:37: Locust, who has done lots of commercial dance work, gives some advice about making a difference on commercial shoots. 30:03: Jimmy shares what’s next for him, including working on a book and continuing to educate young dancers.   Bullet List of Resources –  Jimmy Locust Personal Website Instagram Twitter Locust Performing Arts Center Company Website Facebook Locust Dance Academy Company Website Instagram Twitter

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra speaks with Tony Duncan — who is also known as Yellow Bird Dancing. Tony is an award-winning Native American flute player and hoop dancer who has performed on some of the world’s biggest stages, including the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, The Tonight Show, and even The White House. As a hoop dancer, Duncan is among the best in the world, winning the title of “World Champion Hoop Dancer” five times. Duncan is also an award-winning flute player, who is currently signed to the largest and oldest Native American music label, Canyon Records. For Duncan, dance is more than artistic body movement — it is a way to keep his family’s rich history alive. Duncan considers it an honor to be able to use dance tell his family’s stories and educate others on the lives and ways of Native Americans. On the podcast, Tony goes into detail on his unique type of dance, discusses the symbolism involved in every aspect of his performance, and lays out his entrepreneurial journey — one filled with grit, determination, and family pride.   Moving Quotes: "I try to tell people that Native Americans are very very much still here. Our culture is very strong — very vibrant. Our stories are still being told. Our ceremonies are still being done. That's a testament to the strength and resilience of our ancestors." "One of the main reasons why I dance is because there's a great need to educate people on the true history of Native American people." "For every occasion, there's a song. And for every song, there's a dance... When you're really into your dance form, you get lost of it. You go into another place — another realm." "Every day is an opportunity to take a step forward with what you're trying to do." "Whatever you're doing with your business, it's important to hear other people's stories." "We dance as a way to pray — as a way to connect to our Creator." "Any time of need — any time of despair — we turn to our dance. To that way of connecting to our Creator through dancing."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 4:10: Tony speaks to his family’s history in Native American hoop dancing and how he began performing professionally. 8:22: Tony discusses the significance of his Native American regalia and hoop colors. 13:00: Duncan explains how one of the main reasons he dances is to educate others on the rich history of the Native American people. 18:14: Tony shares his thoughts on why dance is such a formative and significant art for so many people. 22:36: Duncan explains how Tony Duncan productions got off of the ground and how his first recorded album broke him into the music business, paving the way for many more albums. 27:50: Duncan describes the earliest days of Tony Duncan Productions and how his professional success can only be attributed to his grit and determination. 34:53: Tony discusses what’s next for him — a large musical collaboration involving many voices and talents.   Bullet List of Resources –  Tony Duncan Personal Website TikTok YouTube Instagram Twitter Facebook

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra interviews both Frances Chiaverini and Robyn Doty, co-founders of Whistle While You Work — an organization dedicated to raising awareness around sexual harassment, discrimination, and workers’ rights in dance. Prior to COVID-19, Frances was a Fellow at the Center for Ballet and the Arts at New York University, where she and Robyn held “messy talks” to discuss working conditions and how to include consent and boundaries into these environments. The pair has curated this content into material to help dancers on a wider scale. Both Robyn and Frances are passionate about the good work that they do in the dance community, and their passion comes to the forefront on the podcast. The guests realize that there’s a real problem that needs to be solved, but they’re also confident that that real problem is solvable with enough training, openness, and courage. On the podcast, the pair discuss their company’s origins and current work and how the current pandemic has primed the dance industry to redefine the working environment.   Moving Quotes: "Spend time finding your own personal boundaries... There's a lot that needs to be done within the self. Practicing consent in your daily self is very important." "The younger you empower a dancer, the more confident they will feel in their art form. Then, when they're older, they may think, 'Oh well. Maybe I am worthy of this leadership position.'" "There are amazing choreographers, dance teachers, administrators, and programmers who are also not white, cisgender men. Hire them. They're great for it. Just do it already." "Think about what else you like to do. And go do those things. And do as many things as possible. It will affect your dance, and I think it can only deepen your experience as a performing artist." "In cultivating other interests, you're then changing the way you see your own value. This can help you from being exploited within dance." "Don't work for free. Demand the best for yourself."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:23: Frances and Robyn share information about their organization Whistle While You Work and the opportunity that COVID has afforded them to redefine “consent” in dance. 6:03: Both guests discuss the measurable outcomes they’re looking to achieve through their efforts. 9:04: Frances discusses the reasons why there’s a clear discrepancy between males and females in dance leadership — and leadership, in general. 12:16: Both Frances and Robyn give some practical ways that dance companies can “turn the tide” of gender discrepancy and move women and/or minorities into more leadership positions. 15:55: Robyn shares the story of how she and Frances met and ultimately formed their organization.  18:58: Both guests give some advice to young dancers around respecting yourself and making sure that clear boundaries are set at the outset. 22:27: Robyn and Frances speak to the importance of diversifying your skillset and cultivating other interests outside of dance. 27:57: Both guests discuss what’s next for Whistle While You Work and how these ideas will expand its footprint in the dance community.   Bullet List of Resources –  Frances Chiaverini Bio on NYU website   Robyn Doty LinkedIn Whistle While You Work Company Website Instagram

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra speaks with Azizi Marshall — the Founder and CEO of the Center for Creative Arts Therapy, an art-based psychotherapy practice and training center in Chicago. The center has launched such programs and companies as Psychology Arts, Arts Playschool, Artful Wellness, and the Therapeutic Performance Initiative model. She has been featured in Oprah Magazine, Thrive Global, CNN, NBC News, Bustle, Reader’s Digest, The Huffington Post, Chicago Tribune, and Glancer Magazine. Marshall is also an award-winning presenter, author, and teacher. Marshall firmly believes in the power of movement to heal the deepest of wounds for persons of all ages and, specifically, believes that movement holds the keys to getting through this difficult pandemic that we find ourselves in. On the podcast, Azizi dives into her philosophies that tie movement to emotional and mental health, shares some information around how each of her businesses seeks to share these ideas, and gives some tips on how we all can rediscover our desire to move.   Moving Quotes: "The arts touches us in a way that just speaking about something cannot." "The arts can be so healing. People need to experience this for themselves." "[To cope in difficult circumstances, find what you love and do it. Then you have a chance to connect with something that you may not be aware of in the moment, but when you look back, you think, 'Wow, that was so helpful for me in that moment.'"   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:54: Azizi describes each one of her several businesses and how each ties uniquely into the arts. 7:01: Azizi discusses why the arts is so important to our mental and emotional growth and wellbeing. 9:10: Marshall gives some tips around tapping into the arts to get through the pandemic.  10:41: Marshall shares her explanation of why we’re so inclined to constantly move as children yet, as adults, we somehow lose that desire. 12:07: Azizi gives some advice on reigniting a love of movement. 13:24: Azizi highlights Artful Wellness — her company which revolves around incorporating movement into the corporate setting. 17:12: Azizi discusses why it’s important to take retreats and remove yourself from your typical setting — something which Artful Wellness often does.  21:29: Azizi, who is also a professional coach and mentor, discusses her coaching program and what she specifically offers her students. 25:09: Marshall looks to the future and projects what’s next for her businesses.   Bullet List of Resources –  Azizi Marshall Personal Website LinkedIn Instagram   Center for Creative Arts Therapy Company Website Artful Wellness Company Website

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra interviews Dr. Linda Bluestein, M.D., Founder at both Hypermobility MD and the Bendy Bodies Podcast. As a former ballet performer and instructor, Dr. Bluestein has a special interest in treating flexibility since athletes and artists are at increased risk of hypermobility disorders. Dr. Bluestein’s unique approach to evaluation and treatment enables patients to have less pain and be more accurately diagnosed. On top of practicing medicine, Dr. Bluestein is also an international speaker and podcaster on the forefront of research on pain, hypermobility and dance medicine.  Linda’s passion for treating hypermobility disorders is abundantly clear on the podcast, as she gives listeners a primer on why proper treatment for these ailments is important. However, Linda also shares some invaluable life wisdom on remaining flexible with the twists and turns that life throws your way. Linda, who never dreamed of doing what she’s doing today, knows that, as opportunities arise and doors close, it’s important to stay positive and go with the flow.   Moving Quotes: "My goal is to keep reinventing myself so that I can keep doing things that are useful, for as long as possible." "One of the biggest things I learned in my journey is that, sometimes, some of the worst things that happen to us turn out to be for the best." "I decided it would be selfish to keep my knowledge to myself. I should help other people." "I'm generally a pretty risk averse person so I'm not going to lie — starting my own business has been challenging. It's often hard to know which path is the right one to take." "I want to help as many people as I can, function as well as they can." "Every part of a person's medical plan should be directed at a level that is necessary."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:39: Linda describes her company — Hypermobility MD — and how the company is a culmination of her life’s passions and her past work experiences. 8:11: Linda discusses hypermobility, including its symptoms and causes, and briefly shares about her podcast, which is aimed at informing physicians on hypermobility. 11:22: Bluestein describes in further detail her podcast work and how her most recent podcast came to be. 13:59: Bluestein describes her journey as an entrepreneur and how she had to push through her natural aversion to risk to accomplish her goals.  17:19: Linda shares how her current work was definitely not her career “Plan A” (or Plan B or Plan C) but that she’s grateful for the “negative experiences” that got her where she is today. 21:00: Linda gives some advice on letting go of lapsed opportunities in order to seize new opportunities as they arise. 25:07: Bluestein discusses her love for knowledge-sharing and what she’s always looking to accomplish through her teaching work. 30:02: Linda looks into the future and describes some upcoming plans for her work in hypermobility and for her podcasts.   Bullet List of Resources –  Linda Bluestein LinkedIn   Hypermobility MD Company Website Instagram Facebook Twitter Bendy Bodies Podcast Podcast Site Facebook Instagram

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra speaks with Kevin Iega Jeff — Artistic Director, Executive Director and Cofounder at Chicago’s Deeply Rooted Dance Theater. Throughout his career, Jeff has collaborated on a wide range of professional and community-based projects, including Spike Lee’s She’s Gotta Have It; The Academy Awards; and The Wiz on Broadway. Kevin has received countless accolades for his work, including being named one of Julliard School’s top 100 Outstanding Alumni.  For Kevin, a dance company is only as good as its people. And, as an artist in dance leadership, it is his responsibility to look after the good of those that fall underneath him — and to do anything less would risk losing his organization. On the podcast, Kevin dives deep on his philosophies as a dance leader and gets “in the weeds” on how to build the foundation for a successful dance company that keeps its people at the center.   Moving Quotes: "If my company was just about dance, we might have folded during the more difficult times. But that never crossed our mind because growing people is at the core of the work. To grow communities." "In a capitalistic-focused society, we can tend to lose the spiritual value of how we engage with each other." "If you can support people through their errors, on the other side of that, you build an incredible amount of trust. You build an incredible amount of visioning and a safe space for you to collaborate." "Management is art, and art is management. Because you're engaging with people. And the reason why management is there is because things won't work perfectly, and people will need guidance." "[We've thrived for 25 years because] we identified and began planting the seeds for intergenerational leadership, so that we could make the organic transitions that the organization required to thrive over 25 years, as needed." "We [put rules in place around dialogues] so that we can move on with the productivity of the business of the organization, while also making sure that we're being accountable to the human engagement. Which is the only way things are going to work. If you lose the human engagement, you lose your organization." "In my education, having parallel worlds between the professional and the academic were really important to me. I also think mentoring is key."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:15: Kevin discusses the origins of his company — Deeply Rooted Dance Theater — and his current role with the company. 6:08: Kevin explains the secret behind Deeply Rooted’s success, as it embarks upon its 25th year as a dance company.  11:44: Jeff describes the process that went into crafting his dance company’s compelling mission statement and gives some tips for anyone looking to do the same. 16:32: Jeff sheds some incredible insight into how he managed to create a sustainable business plan for his dance company, while also honoring its core values. 22:26: Kevin walks through his earliest dance journey and discusses the value of hard work and delayed gratification. 28:05: Jeff explains what was most beneficial about his dance education. 32:19: Kevin describes the importance of self-positioning in order to make the best decisions possible and how he is spending his life helping others do that well.   Bullet List of Resources –  Kevin Iega Jeff LinkedIn   Deeply Rooted Dance Theater Company Website Instagram Facebook Twitter YouTube

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra interviews Ingrid Silva, an internationally-recognized dancer and serial philanthropist who has founded two empowerment-centric organizations — EmpowHer New York and Blacks in Ballet. Born in Rio de Janeiro, Ingrid’s first exposure to ballet was actually at a social project in a nearby slum. Ingrid eventually found her way to New York City, where she’s currently dancing her seventh season for the Dance Theater of Harlem. Ingrid’s story has been featured in movies and publications such as Vogue and Glamour, Teen Vogue, The New York Times, ESPN Women, and many more. On the podcast, Ingrid walks through her incredible story and discusses how she is now able to use her journey to encourage others to pursue their goals. Her unique experiences include delivering an address to the United Nations, collaborating with Alicia Keys, being on the cover of Pointe Magazine, and more. And in the discussion, Ingrid shares all of the details around how those experiences came to be and how each of those experiences furthers her goal to empower others across the world.   Moving Quotes: "It doesn't matter how much you do. It doesn't matter who you are. It doesn't matter how much success you have. You have to fight to express your journey. And your journey is special — only you can see the final project through. Don't be discovered by all of the no’s." "At the end of the day, we are responsible for our own happiness. If you're not happy, maybe you're not on the right path. You don't have to do something over and over again, just for the sake of being there." "My own journey has taught me so much about me. We always look to other people for inspiration, but we never find it in ourselves... If I wasn't able to focus on the things I wanted to do, I wouldn't have been able to accomplish those things." "The journey of a dancer is very particular. You have to find ways to listen to your call — to figure out what your journey in dance is bringing you." "I've always had teachers along my journey that have always mentioned to me, 'You can be whatever you want to be.' I've been very supported since day one." [On rejection in dance] "You don't have to put people down in order for them to overcome or for them to show you how good they are... This approach has been destroying people's passions for dance for years." "A main point in finding your purpose and who you are is seeing how your upbringing has shaped you. Your family really affects the person who you will become — their support, their generosity, their way of believing in your dream."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:19: Ingrid walks through her journey as a dancer and why she finds joy in dancing for the Dance Theatre of Harlem. 7:55: Ingrid shares about some mentors and role models in her life but also explores our ability to also find inspiration inside of ourselves. 10:12: Silva, who was the first African-Brazilian dancer on the cover of Pointe Magazine, discusses how that opportunity came about. 11:57: Silva, who delivered a speech on female empowerment for the United Nations, describes her speech and the organization she founded to fight for this same mission. 16:40: Ingrid describes the experience of collaborating on a project alongside Grammy Award -winning artist Alicia Keys. 19:09: Silva shares about her experience as a Brazilian immigrant to the United States and her organization Blacks in Ballet, which highlights Black dancers globally. 22:03: Silva explains her choice to put her formal education on hold to pursue a professional dance career. 24:18: Ingrid discusses the importance of family when finding your life’s purpose and describes the dance industry’s unhealthy view of rejection and critique. 29:28: Silva shares some tips on setting good goals and executing on those goals. 33:02: Ingrid, who is creating positive change for people groups across the world, shares some tips for leaders who want to bring positive change to themselves and their communities.   Bullet List of Resources –  Ingrid Silva Personal Website Instagram   EmpowHer Company Website Instagram Blacks in Ballet Instagram

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra speaks with Ali Geraets of Just for Kix. You may remember Just for Kix from Episode 48 of the podcast, where Aleksandra interviewed the company’s founder and executive director, Cindy Clough. Just for Kix is a youth dance organization that offers dance classes, summer camps, and special events to tens of thousands of youths around the country. Ali Geraets — Cindy Clough’s daughter — has been a part of the organization for many years and has designed costumes, led virtual dance classes, and has carried out a myriad of other jobs for the company. For Ali, the joy of dance is its versatility and variety — being able to wear a wide variety of “hats” and go where the need is. To be a utility player — a Swiss Army Knife. As Ali and many others know, there’s much more to dance than performing on a stage. On the podcast, Ali speaks to a wide variety of topics related to dance but, most importantly, how dance has afforded her many different opportunities that have allowed her to use her talents in many different ways.   Moving Quotes: "Your career doesn't have to be over if you don't dance professionally... There are so many different paths you can take." "I think that's what's so awesome about my job — I'm incorporating what I love to do. I love dancing and definitely wanted to do the professional route... However, I also love teaching and all of the other things I get to do while maintaining a 'normal life.'" "Work hard for what you want, and you will surprise yourself." "Set your goals big and don't settle. It all comes back to hard work... I love kids that will work for it. If you can have a good work ethic, no matter what your talent is, you can get to where you want to get." "Expose yourself to as much as you possibly can. Expose yourself to as many people as you can... Ask for feedback. Ask others, 'What can I do better?' The more you want that feedback, the stronger you're going to become." "I think it's good for kids to not always win... I think it's good for them to learn how to be humble when they win and how to be a good sport when they don't win." "So much of [leadership] is confidence and risk-taking. I feel like a lot of women are scared to take the risks... We need to keep molding young children to be leaders and become what they want to become." "Those experiences [where you fail], as hard as they are at the time, can be the pivotal moments that happen to you that change the person you're going to become... You need those."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:18: Ali gives a high-level overview of Just for Kix and how she fits into the ever-expanding organization. 7:27: Ali discusses her role, personally, has expanded since she joined the family business out of high school. 9:34: Ali, who has danced in several Super Bowl halftime shows, tells the story of how she got involved in these performances. 13:55: Geraets shares a humbling failure, which involved a performance on a nationally aired TV show. 17:02: Garaets discusses the many different options one can take as a job inside of the dance industry and how her job has allowed her to “wear many hats.” 20:11: Ali discusses her perspective on why there are so few women in arts leadership and how women can better pursue these types of roles. 21:01: Ali sheds some light on her personal role models and why taking in different perspectives is so important. 23:18: Geraets describes the ongoing nature of learning and why a nonstop willingness to learn is critical for success. 25:14: Ali shares some great insight on why she sees great value in competition. 30:00: Ali ends the podcast by giving some advice for young, aspiring dancers on the value of hard work and determination.   Bullet List of Resources –  Ali Geraets Instagram   Just for Kix Company Website Facebook Instagram YouTube

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra interviews Kia Smith, founding Executive Artistic Director at the South Chicago Dance Theatre. Kia, a Chicago native, trained at various notable Chicago institutions such as Story Catchers Theatre, ETA Creative Arts Foundation, Hyde Park School of Dance, and the Joel Hall Dancers and Center. Her training launched her into national and international tours, including runs with the Lula Washington Dance Theatre and the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company. And, of course, she has a wide variety of dance credits with Chicago-based dance companies. Considering her extremely accomplished career, Kia has ample room to boast; however, her drive to succeed isn’t about self-glory but is, rather, about revitalizing communities through the arts. For nearly two decades, Kia has been using her art to bridge gaps between history, cultures, and people groups through movement. On the podcast, Smith discusses how her life’s ambitions are now being met through her dance company, not only on the south side of Chicago but also nationally and even internationally.    Moving Quotes: "I don't think there's anything that sets me apart [from other entrepreneurs]. I just follow through. I'm not anything special — we all have the ability to create and execute a dream. I just follow through." "When it comes to 'success,' you never really get there. I mean... I have a 75-year vision for South Chicago Dance Company."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:17: Kia talks about her dance company — South Chicago Dance Theatre — and the three pillars that her company stands on. 5:51: Kia discusses South Chicago Dance’s cultural diplomacy program, where her company has partnered with a company in South Korea to produce a new work. 9:20: Kia speaks to her relationship with the Chicago Urban League and her work in the Chicago African American community through that organization. 11:54: Smith explains what she believes is the “x factor” that has made her successful in her entrepreneurial endeavors. 13:03: Smith describes her company’s mentorship program and how that program quantifies success. 15:40: Kia discusses how “success” is different for every individual person and can address both short- and long-term goals. 19:44: Smith, whose business has been thriving in the pandemic era, sheds some light on how her company has had to adjust to the “new normal.” 22:18: Kia retells her own dance journey and how she knew from a young age that she wanted to run her own dance company. 24:38: Kia shares some thoughts around why she believes there are so few women leaders in the dance world and how we can all work to curb this trend. 26:42: Kia looks to the future and shares what’s next for the South Chicago Dance Theatre.   Bullet List of Resources –  Kia Smith LinkedIn On Company Website   South Chicago Dance Theatre Company Website Facebook Instagram

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra speaks with Ryan Jolicoeur-Nye, Ballet Master at the Oklahoma City Ballet. Originally from central Maine, Ryan began his training at the age of 16. During his run as a professional dancer, he danced for ballet companies across the continent and with some of the most sought-after choreographers in the industry. Most recently, Jolicoeur-Nye left his position as Artistic Director of the NWA Ballet Theatre. Now, he and his wife both hold leadership roles at the Oklahoma City Ballet. On top of all of this, Ryan is an award-winning choreographer, who has created numerous works for a variety of major ballet companies. At this point in his career, Ryan has held a wide variety of roles in arts leadership, and, on the podcast, he discusses a wide variety of topics, including changes he’d like to see happen in the ballet world, what is inhibiting innovation in the United States, and how to find and act upon one’s passions. Ryan also explains his perspective on what he believes is most important for young dancers looking to break into the ballet industry, which may not be what you’re expecting.   Moving Quotes: "As a director, the value that I place on my ability to work with someone that is positive and enthusiastic in the studio sometimes outweighs physical talent... Your openness can carry you through your entire career." "You can learn the technical things. You can't learn the passion." "Where I don't see a pathway, I try to create one." "We're not missing passion; we're just missing a willingness to take the risk. As a society, that's something we should be more willing to help people pursue." "Every artistic director wants something different. Your job [as a dancer] is to give whichever version they want." "Perhaps performing arts needs to move a bit more in the direction of [technological innovation] ... Creating really brilliant feature films that can live on. The valuable thing about performing arts is that it has one life — you see it on stage, and it will never be the same again. So, there's value in that. But when we're given a [global pandemic], we must move in the direction of virtual creativity with real production value." "Education should train students for the real-life workforce — for what artistic directors are looking for in a dancer. And I would say, primarily, the answer is versatility." "In this business, everyone is in your life for a season because dancers move around so often. You get so many different experiences with lots of different people and cultures. That's been a huge guiding force for me in developing myself as a leader, choreographer, and artists." "A huge challenge that we've faced with dance in the past is getting stuck on the 'right' or 'wrong' ways to do things." "What we have in the United States is a network of companies that produce the same tapestry of work over and over. So, we're behind the world in innovation and creativity."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 2:00: Ryan talks about his move from the NWA Ballet Theatre to the Oklahoma City Ballet and his vision for his new company. 4:55: Ryan discusses his ideas behind changing ballet company norms, including shifting traditional contract terms to give dancers more security. 8:11: Ryan describes a flaw in the United States dance and arts sectors which paralyzes many companies from doing truly innovative work. 13:30: Jolicoeur-Nye discusses the most important thing that can be taught to students as a part of dance education. 15:33: Ryan explains what he believes is the most marketable skill for dance students that are looking to break into the industry. 18:42: Ryan discusses his thoughts on whether or not dance teachers should be required to obtain certifications to teach dance classes. 21:01: Ryan describes his personal role models and speaks to the importance of learning from peers as you move from company to company. 24:27: Jolicoeur-Nye explains how to properly adjust to change in a dance career where one may essentially operate as a nomad, moving locations from season to season. 27:58: Ryan discusses the nature of personal passion and how to take action on that which you’re passionate about. 30:03: Ryan shares the story of how he got started in ballet and pushed through adversity to ultimately become what he is today.   Bullet List of Resources –  Ryan Jolicoeur-Nye Instagram Facebook   Oklahoma City Ballet Company Website Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter

This week on 5.6.7.EIGHT, Aleksandra interviews Damani Pompey, an NYC-based lighting designer, movement artist, and choreographer. Additionally, Damani has been involved in a great deal of TV and film work, and his credits include notable festivals like Sundance. Pompey is also the architect of Magnus Works — a continuous archive of his own creative and choreographic projects, which ultimately seeks to investigate the many different languages of movement and expression, from generation to generation. Pompey is a renaissance man and deep thinker, and, on the podcast, he discusses the origin stories of some of his most renown works. He also spends some time explaining how his fascination with lighting was born out of an innate curiosity and a willingness to seize an opportunity while in school. Damani also highlights some of his work in film and sheds some interesting light on the differences between dancing on film versus dancing in a studio.   Moving Quotes: “Lighting for me is all about the sensation and the mood… But it’s important to listen to what the work is calling for and what the music is doing. You can’t have beautiful, fancy, cool lights if the person is standing on stage not doing anything." “What I’m focused on right now for the future is world health and happiness. And more authenticity in my work. Anything that comes out of that, I will feel I’ve deserved because I’ve truly put in the time." “We all have the power to critically think. We all have the power to make. That’s how we’ve existed this long as humans. We know how to build, but we sometimes lack the tools. I just want to remind everyone that we all have the same types of memories, just in a different way."   Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 2:55: Damani kicks off the conversation by discussing the scope of his catalog of creative work, Magnus Works. 5:52: Damani explains how the work that comprises Magnus Works came to be. 9:10: Pompey drives a fascinating discussion around the differences between dancing for film and dancing in the studio. 13:04: Pompey shares some advice for dancers who may be looking to get involved in dancing for the big screen. 16:19: Damani retells how his fascination with lighting came to be and shares some thoughts on the importance of good lighting in dance. 22:31: Pompey shines some light on three short films that he recently worked on, including one in partnership with BMW. 24:52: Damani looks at the future and, though he is unsure of exact plans, he discusses some themes he is currently focusing on in his work and life.   Bullet List of Resources –  Damani Pompey On IMDB Twitter Instagram   Magnus Works Company Website Instagram Vimeo Facebook