Baila Room

Bashar Bou Karroum is a man of sharp wit and even sharper self-awareness. Beneath a wall of sarcasm lies a very smart individual—someone who's walked the path of self-discovery with honesty and humility. What intrigued me most is this: although naturally competitive, he chose not to chase glory on the world stage. Instead, he devoted himself to teaching—crafting an approach where testing ideas matters more than being right. He's fiercely loyal & thoughtful but he doesn't claim to have all the answers. He simply seeks what truly works for his students.Now a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, he leads not just with skill, but with values—bringing his team's philosophy to new heights. He may joke like it's all fun and games, but don't be fooled—he takes his role seriously, and what he has to share might just challenge the way you think about growth, discipline, and purpose 

Chris Eagleton is a fellow dance school owner, the founder of the Break City dance school, and a proud member of the world-renowned break crew Illmask. With over 25 years of breaking experience under his belt, he's a true pillar of the breaking community.In this episode, we dive deep into the world of business and personal struggles. And let me tell you—what he's been through in the past two years is more than what most people face in a lifetime. Yet, despite it all, he continues to rise, stronger than ever, dedicating himself to building an incredible break dancing community.

Aujourd'hui, j'ai le plaisir de recevoir une invitée exceptionnelle, une femme dont le parcours n'a pas toujours été facile, mais qui a su transformer chaque défi en une leçon de vie précieuse. Depuis son plus jeune âge, elle a trouvé sa vocation, son "X", et a construit une carrière solide en restant fidèle à elle-même.Andrea Cadotte est une femme forte, authentique, qui n'a pas peur de partager ses pensées profondes et ses émotions, offrant une perspective véritablement unique sur la vie. C'est une personne dont l'histoire inspirera sans doute chacun de vous.

Mon prochain invité est une vraie mine d'or en expériences de vie. Avec des études poussées en histoire et un parcours fascinant qui l'a mené à devenir Directeur d'agence chez Industrielle Alliance, il a su conjuguer savoir et action pour marquer les esprits.Ce qui le motive au quotidien? Améliorer la vie des gens, tout simplement. Et même s'il est trop humble pour se vanter de ses succès, notre conversation mettra en lumière à quel point il réussit, jour après jour, à avoir un impact positif autour de lui.Préparez-vous à être captivés par son franc-parler, son authenticité, et surtout, sa manière unique de raconter des histoires. C'est un invité qui ne laisse personne indifférent.Sans plus attendre, je vous présente… Emil Blotor!

Ma prochaine invitée n'a pas peur d'exprimer son désarroi face à notre système d'éducation. Professeur depuis 20 ans, elle milite sur les réseaux sociaux afin de mettre la loupe sur les endroits de notre système d'éducation qui auraient besoin d'attention.  Honnête et passionnée,  elle nous donne l'heure juste sur sa réalité en tant qu'enseignante, mais aussi en tant que parent. 

In this video i am sharing with you some of my random thoughts about the Ai and it's repercussion on the content creator world.

I recently Visited the National Dance School of CANADA to chat with the co-founderShe understood at a very young age that to make a living from art, you have to be versatile. We talked about the challenges of creating a school from scratch and what it takes to work in the dance businessWithout further due I bring you Sonia Clarke 

Robin Campbell is a brilliant entrepreneur, teacher, YouTube content creator and citizen of the world. He's the founder of the Dance Dojo an online school that specialized in Salsa and Bachata. He operates his business in Medellin Columbia.     During the conversation, one thing that stood out for me is his amazing ability to reverse engineer the learning process.He is the definition of putting yourself in the shoes of your students to understand their real needs. 

Today I had the privilege to sit down and talk with an awesome and very passionate Youtuber/ Influencer who specializes in language learning.  It was a pleasure to dive into Big Bong's world.

Ilias is the founder and director of Baila Productions, one of Montreal's premiere Salsa dance schools. He has more than 20 years of experience in numerous dances: Jazz, Hip Hop, Modern, African Dances and of course Salsa! My mission is to offer you a shortcut to happiness thru Salsa.

In this episode I discuss a situation that every male salsa student goes thru at least once during the learning process. 

Jesse Snow Born in Texas, he started training in gymnastics to then pursue cheerleading and finally he got a black belt Brazilian Jiu-jitsu.  I was very curious on his views on politics and religion.  We had an amazing conversation. 

Sonia Clarke is a Producer, choreographer, dancer and teacher, Sonia has been working in the show business sector for over 25 years. With a background in classical ballet, jazz, modern, Afro-Caribbean and street dance, her career has given her the opportunity to work for dance companies in Quebec and Europe, as well as in the commercial sector such as television and corporate events. Working backstage as a stage manager, both locally and on tour, she quickly developed her management skills. As a choreographer, Sonia has created for dance companies in Europe, commercial events, films and festivals, as well as for Cirque du Soleil. In 2021, she will complete a Master's degree in Arts and Cultural Management, which she will immediately put to use in the development of the National Dance School of Canada project.

Welcome to the Baila Room Podcast, my name is Ilias and today I had the chance to catch up with my old friend Kenneth Mockler.  He's an accomplished musician and currently works at Meta formally known as Facebook.  6 years ago he moved from Quebec to Texas so I was really curious about his perspective on this state.  We also talked about the development of virtual reality and how Facebook posts are reviewed.  And guess what we even talked about Trump ;)  I had a blast taking to him. 

Today I had the chance to talk to very inspiring individual that accomplished something truly amazing.  He ran everyday for one year and since, he never stopped running. After, listening my next guest speak you will feel that nothing is impossible and that the only thing stopping you for doing amazing things is your brain.  Without further due I bring you Gerard Pierre. 

Today I had the chance to talk to 2 amazing dancers, teachers and a very well established Youtubers.  We talked about the state of Bachata in the world,  Their business partnership, The life of a Youtuber and the current situation in their home country Roumania.  Directly from Roumania,  i bring you Marius & Elena. 

Aujourd'hui j'ai eu la chance de recevoir  Alexandro Gonzalez Hidalgo AKA Juste Chano,  un artiste très discipliné dans le perfectionnement de son art:la danse… plus spécifiquement la Bachata. Mais ce qui m'a impressionné le plus c'est son histoire de dépassement de soi. Une histoire  qui va vous inspirer j'en suis convaincu.

Today I had the chance to speak Eric Caillibot an aerospace engineer that has a little-known skill: Writing. He's been developing this skill on the side while he choose the more traditional professional path.  Now his book series the Kiynan chronicle are ready to be released to conquer the world. We talk about the challenges of being an author in this new digital world where attention spans are very short.It's very inspiring conversation for those who contemplate a less traditional path in life….Check out his website: https://ericpcaillibot.com

Let me start by saying i believe people can change. What i'm curious about is how this change operates in our lives. That said, my next guest is an exemple of will power and discipline. She worked as a child care worker with very difficult cases and during covid she started to train…and train she did. You will hear  a very confident women but that doesnt mean that this confidence is not sometimes shaken.  Finally, when you'll hear about her transformation i hope that it will encourage you to get off your butt and move more!!! Without further due i bring you the powerful Patrice Elisson.

Today I had the chance to speak with an amazing dancer and teacher. Most of all, You will hear a very driven businesswoman. This conversation made me feel energized and motivated.  Hopefully it will have the same effect on you;) I bring you Corinne Tardieu. 

Today I had the chance to speak with a multitalented individual that dropped a lucrative job and decided to follow the creative path of writing.  We talked about social media inner workings, the art of content writing and of course salsa dancing.To properly introduce my next guest I will use a quote pulled out an article that he wrote for our Salsa dance school: One of my great regrets is that it took me 50 years to realize how much I needed dancing in my life. Now that I know, it's hard to let go

My next guest is a multitalented dancer choreographer. But most of all she's what I call a true artist.  I'm a huge fan of her work.  We talked about the creative usage of Virtual reality and  new technologies applied to the dance world, my one night in jail situation, how she deals with criticism and much more.  As you will hear I had loads of fun chatting with her. Without further due I bring you my friend Audrey Gaussiran. 

Today  I had the chance to talk to a fellow dance school owner from Vancouver.He’s 3X Professional Canadian Salsa Champion, US Open Salsa Champion and he got the 2nd Place World Salsa Summit but most of all he’s extremely humble, great motivator for the development of a competitor mindset but also fosters a don’t leave anyone behind attitude. Without further due I bring you Patrick Moriarty 

Être sur son X c’est bien ce qui caractérise ma prochaine invitée.Elle a un parcours fascinant et non conventionnel. Son Parcours à débuter par l’industrie de la mode ensuite elle tomba dans l’aérobie pour enfin terminer sa course avec le Yoga.Elle est la fondatrice du studio de Yoga et Pilates: Centre Yoga Santé Laval et de la plateforme en ligne Virtuel Yoga Santé.Une entrepreneure que j’admire beaucoup, sans plus attendre je vous présente Marie-Josée Rioux.

Today I had the chance to speak to an amazing individual.  Someone who will, by his strength of character, inspire you to become a more grateful and positive person.Even thought we touched a very difficult subject in this podcast I think ultimately this conversation will inspire and uplift you. 

Today I had the chance to speak to Nataša Pevićević an amazing choreographer and teacher from Croatia.She completed a university degree to become an english teacher and then stopped everything to follow her life long dream to become a dancer.It was a very uplifting and inspiring conversation that i'm happy to share with you guys;)

Rania Greiche is a choreographer, dancer, teacher and a very well established promoteur in the Montreal Salsa scene. On top of that she runs an event planning company that specializes in weddings. She’s a multi-talented business woman with a very positive mindset.

Ortos J. Gutiérrez Ortiz, better known as Tito Ortos, was born in Santurce on December 26, 1974. After finishing a Bachelor's Degree in Natural Science from the University of Puerto Rico and studying music, vocals, bass and clarinet, Tito started his career as a Salsa Dancer by his parent's initiative, both musicians. Also he develops as a dancer of other genres such as: Jazz, Merengue, "Bomba y Plena", Rumba, Modern Dance and Tap among others. Since then, he has visited more than 100 cities worldwide giving performances and classes, with his wife and dance partner Tamara Livolsi. They both participate yearly in congresses around the world and work as judges for the Salsa Open and for the World Salsa Championships. Produce the Puerto Rico Hustle and Salsa Festival and they are part of the organization of the Puerto Rico Salsa Congress.

Today I had the chance to speak with one of the best salsa dancers in the world. Born in Veracruz, Mexico, he is an accomplished dancer, choreographer, has a talent for singing, has contagious energy and a broad knowledge of the history of Mambo / Salsa. Let me just say that if I could choose only one person to represent what Salsa means to me I would pick him every single time… without further due I bring you Rodrigo Cortazar.

Cadleen Désir est PDG et fondatrice de Déclic, un réseau de professionnels au service des enfants à besoins particuliers du Grand Montréal, et présidente du Groupement des chefs d’entreprises du Québec.Impliquée dans la gouvernance de plusieurs organisations, elle y insuffle sa vision d’un leadership humain et inclusif, nourri par l’intelligence collective, la diversité et la participation des femmes.Elle siège notamment au conseil d’administration de Femmessor, au comité-conseil en développement économique du gouvernement du Québec et auprès de diverses organisations en éducation.Médaillée de l’Assemblée nationale en 2011, Cadleen Désir soutient l’entreprenariat des femmes et des jeunes au Bénin. Le journal Les Affaires lui a récemment consacré sa première page.

J’ai eu la chance de parler avec une très grande artiste. Je dis très grande sans exagérer, car, vous allez vous en rendre compte durant la conversation, que ça démarche artistique est très claire et surtout puissante. Elle est la lauréate du Grand Prix de la Danse de la Ville de Montréal. Et ici Je cite le jury qui l’a selectionner « Cette artiste aux multiples facettes, communicatrice avisée, activiste et performeuse d’une grande puissance, creuse en elle au-delà de l’évidence avec persévérance et conviction » Sans plus tarder voici Rhodnie Désir.

If there's one thing positive about this Covid situation is that I got even closer to my son ;)

Elle a étudié en architecture en France puis arrivée à Montréal elle consacre les 20 dernières années à maitriser et surtout enseigner la Salsa... De la Bachata au Fox Trot en passant par le Ballet, le Baladi et le Rock'n'Roll, On dit d'elle qu'elle savait danser avant de savoir marcher.

Today I got the chance to chat with a very special business woman. She studied dance all her young life in China, came to Montreal Canada completed an MBA and created a multi-studio concept called Espace Des Arts that became a Mecca for many dance styles and dancers. I started this conversation with no expectations and I discovered a smart, thoughtful, extremely motivated and powerful woman. Without further due I bring you Dominique Wang

My name is Ilias and I have owned a Latin dance school in Laval for 16 years now (another one in the West Island and Ile-Perrot ). We manage to operate with restrictions, at 20% of our pre-Covid sales. For the moment, I have no salary and my business is struggling to survive because of the measures put in place. I am now afraid of losing my well-established business for which I have given everything; and I am writing this to express my despair that it is slowly dying. By closing us down you are putting the nail in the coffin at my session and I have to reimburse all of my clients, who despite their desire to dance are more afraid than ever. And they won't come back until they are reassured by the same people who scared them, so I guess not anytime soon.

An experienced dancer, tango teacher, performer and dj. We made a deep dive in the Tango world… So much to learn about that world… especially how to ask someone to dance only by using this Tango eye technique: The Cabaceo ;) Please welcome Carol Horowitz.

1. Intense Dance Training in Cuba2. Striking a balance between communism and capitalism3. No one from the outside should criticize the ways of a nation4. Cuba USA rocky relationship5. Don't come to my house and tell me what to do6. Her Amazing Cuban Immersion 7. A bit of Cuban Embargo History 8. Covid in Cuba 9. Afro Something

Some Covid Thoughts

1. Comment elle a réglé ses douleurs chroniques2. Comment apaiser l'autocritique et développer de la bienveillance envers soi3. La méditation en mouvement4. Les défis du "marketing" de son approche : La Danse Pleine Conscience 5. L'importance de la respiration en danse

How he got in the Salsa WorldCoaching techniques and approachHis experience in the Philippines with his husbandDealing with hard family issues

Today I had a chance to talk to one of the best jazz-blues guitarist in Canada. He holds a Jazz Performance degree from McGill University and has accompanied many renown artists. In this podcast You’ll learn about what it takes to be a full time professional musician!

In this podcast I go down memory lane with an accomplished musician and teacher. My next guest and I have something in common: We both love playing guitar and we both spent time working in Taiwan. He recently came back from Taiwan so I was eager to talk to him about his journey abroad.Here are some subjects discussed:Challenges of Working Abroad A Canadian's perspective on learning Chinese Pollution in TaiwanReverse culture shock is realBeing a musician in a foreign country Living with S.A.R.S. (10% death rate)Taiwan VS Covid-19Mask wearing situation

A lovely conversation with Belinda Roche. High school teacher, amazing salsa dancer and very very good friend.Dealing with IsolationSending Our Kids to School During CovidSalsa Dancing Post Covid-19Stigma of MasksSalsa dancing do's and don'ts

Initiated to the universe of dance at age 4, Sonia graduated in Classical Dance at the Grands Ballets Canadiens in 1989. She is also certified in superior studies in the management of cultural projects, with a specialization in inner city youth outreach and intervention, obtained in Lyon (France) in 1994.We discussed her Grands Ballets Canadiens Training, What kind of person becomes a pro dancer, the challenges of teaching online, the Impact of Covid-19 on the dance world, the problems of dance competitions and much more.

In the Salsa world, where i come from, we get to met really amazing people… this is where Adam Duff comes in. Adam is a concept artist, graphic designer veteran salsa dancers and all around amazing guy. He worked as art director for Electronic Arts and Disney. We talked about... how he became a professional artist, why he started a Youtube channel, tips and tricks to be successful on that video platform, doing a Vlog with his daughter, the impact of Covid-19 on the arts and much more.

Martin Pham Dinh is a physician with 20 years of practice in emergency medicine who now focuses on clinical communications and the science of wellness and longevity. He also a fitness freak, passionate home cook and lover of life.We discussed his important role in the Covid-19 pandemic.

A conversation with my good friend and dance school owner Christine Harrison in the middle of the Covid-19 crisis.Here's some topics discussed.1. The impact of the virus on dance schools2. The usage of Zoom for virtual classes and meetings3. Business strategies during lock down 4. The post Corona virus prognosis

Welcome to the Baila Room Podcast…Before we begin, I want to state in which condition we’re doing this podcast:We are in Quebec, Canada, on the second week of the Covid19 outbreak and its lock down. Here’s an important Caveat before we start. We are no experts on Covid-19 or any related matter. So anything we say about the virus situation during our podcast is from a businessmen standpoint. It’s a serious matter and change and rapidly changing. Needless to say you should always differ to experts and local authorities for current up to date information.Also, it’s my first remote podcast. I wanna to apologize ahead of time for any sound glitches. It’s a learning curve ;)On this note, my next guest is the owner of BLS Buzz Limo Services a High end Limousine Service. He’s also a great dj, salsa dancer and Kompa Zouk music lover. We talked about the impact of the Covid 19 on his business. Uber vs the taxi world and Komba Zouk music.

A great conversation with an amazing dancer and friend: Ronald Mompoint. We talked about our shared passion of dance. We went back to the late 80s high school life. We talked about the current state of affairs of social media and politics and finally, he shared with me the traumatic story that happened to his father in our medical system.

A great conversation with an amazing dancer, performer, choreographer and friend: Audrey Gaussiran.Here are the main topics discussed: 1. Things they don’t show on TV from the So you Think you can Dance show2. Drama in the dance world3. Traveling and working as a dancer around the world4. Dealing with hard criticism in the arts world5. Managing a dance career : Learning to say NO6. Juggling the artist mom roles7. How to be an out of the box artist 8. Gender roles in the Salsa world 9. How to deal with doubt