Beyond Irish Dance

Join us in speaking with Mary Slowey, former Irish Dancer and current Irish Dance photographer, about the grief dancers experience as they retirement from Irish Dance. The conversation navigates the complex landscape of identity loss and the mental health implications often unaddressed in such major life changes. We also discuss ways in which dancers can capture moments of their Irish Dance journey through photography, and how visual representations of our Irish Dance journey can help us in coping with the grief of transition. You can find Mary on Instagram @sloweyphotography, online at http://www.sloweysnaps.com/irishdance/ or through email at SloweyPhotography@gmail.com. Follow us on Instagram @BeyondIrishDancePod and on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.

Irish Dancers have strong opinions on their shoes. But our socks are an equally important, but under discussed, aspect of our footwear! In this episode, we talk about the history of socks in Irish Dance, how we got to the beloved Poodle Sock, and review Irish Dance specific socks.Links to our favorite socks:Apolla Performace Socks: Amazing compression, support, and energy distribution! We tried the Performance Shock, the Joule, and the Infinite. Find them at www.apollaperformance.com and @apollaperformaceAhearne Shamrock Grips: We love the amazing support provided by the cutest shamrock grips on the bottom. They keep your feet from sliding around in your shoes; or allow you to dance shoesless without slipping. Find them at shamrockgrips.com and @ahearneshamrockgripsTurnout Socks: The perfect tool for providing visual cues on turnout! Comfortable, adorable, and helpful? Yes please! And they can be customized to include your school logo! Find them at www.turnoutsocks.com and @turnoursocks.Follow us on Instagram @BeyondIrishDancePod and on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.

In this episode, we chat with Meghan Lucey-Brelsford, TCRG; Owner and Director of The Brennan-Lucey Irish Dance Academy; and Inventor of Turn Out Socks! Meghan shares behind-the-scenes logistics of life on tour, her joy in teaching, and her inspiration for Turn Out Socks! Meghan has earned awarded numerous titles including National Champion, All-Scotland Champion, NAFC Senior Belt Champion and 6-time New England Regional Champion. She has also placed in the top 5 at every major competition within An Coimisiún, including an incredible 2nd place and silver medal at the World Championships in 2009. Meghan toured for 9 years with Riverdance,  and has also toured with Cherish the Ladies, Celtic Fire, and Women of Ireland and performed with Busch Gardens show Celtic Fyre, among others. You can find Meghan at The Brennan-Lucey Irish Dance Academy, and purchase her turnout socks at turnoutsocks.com.Follow us on Instagram @BeyondIrishDancePod and on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.

Over the past decade adult Irish dancers have had a growing presence, and have gained more attention and recognition. In part 2 of this two-part interview, we rejoin dancers Dominika (Domi) Cedro-Culver, Holly Olitan, and Lyla Medeiros - three adult dancers with diverse dance background and experiences - to discuss the joys and challenges of being an adult Irish Dancer. The discussion covers their mindset as adult dancers, the healing that has come from dance, and the joys of being an Irish Dancers.Be sure to listen to Part 1 of this episode!Follow us on Instagram @BeyondIrishDancePod and on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.

Over the past decade, adult Irish dancers have had a growing presence, and have gained more attention and recognition. In part one of this two-part interview, we meet with dancers Dominika (Domi) Cedro-Culver, Holly Olitan, and Lyla Medeiros - three adult dancers with diverse dance background and experiences - to discuss the joys and challenges of being an adult Irish Dancer. The discussion covers their dance journeys, the challenges of competing as adults, and the social dynamics of being an adult in classes and feisanna. Be sure to join us next week for part 2!Follow us on Instagram @BeyondIrishDancePod and on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.

Wish you could spend a little behind-the-scenes time with the Camp Rince Ceol instructors, directors, and camp counselors? Then you won't want to miss this episode of Beyond Irish Dance podcast, recorded after hours with the California Camp team, where we discuss favorite camp memories, dance friendships, and lessons learned.Thanks to Sheila Ryan, Tony Davoren, Joe Harrison, Noel Spillane, Chloey Turner, Ashley Smith-Wallace, and all the CRC California Camp counselors and dancers for a memorable week.Follow us on Instagram @BeyondIrishDancePod and on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.

We just experienced North American Irish Dance Nationals for the first time! Join us for a recap of our preparation, our mindset day-of, our thoughts on the venue and the vendors, our takeaways, and our highlights. Thanks to the NAIDC 2024 Committee; our teachers at Carroll-Henderson School of Irish Dance - Lauren Carroll-Bolger, TCRG, Anna Grussling, and Katie Resch; our mindset coach Scott Doherty; the entire team at Target Training; our supportive family; and our Irish Dance community for a great experience! Follow us on Instagram @BeyondIrishDancePod and on Apple Podcast, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.

In this collaborative episode, we partner with TCRG to CEO Radio podcast host Courtney Jay, TCRG to discusses things to look for when dancers and families are considering a transfer to a different Irish Dance school - including conversations to have prior to making a change; the importance of knowing your learning style and goals; red flags; timing "The Ban"; and navigating the transfer process. Courtney emphasizes the importance of communication and professionalism throughout the process, and offers advice on integrating into a new dance community. Courtney Jay TCRG is the host of TCRG to CEO Radio, the podcast for Irish dance teachers, studio owners, and aspiring teachers/studio owners who want to learn teaching and business skills to succeed in their careers. She is also the owner and director of Scoil Rince Luimni based in Connecticut, USA. You can find Courtney Jay at http://www.courtneyjaytcrg.com, on Instagram @courtneyjay_tcrg. Follow us on Instagram @BeyondIrishDancePod and on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.

In this episode, we interview Camp Rince Ceol (CRC) Camp Director Sheila Ryan, TCRG on how to prepare for and make the most of the Irish Dance Camp experience. We talk about the cell-phone policy, packing list requirements, roommate assignments, and the ins and outs of camp life. A must listen for new and returning CRC campers! You can find Camp Rince Ceol at https://irishdancecamp.com/ or on Instagram @camprinceceol. Follow us on Instagram @BeyondIrishDancePod and on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.

In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Róisín Cahalan a Physiotherapist, Associate Professor at the University of Limerick, ADCRG, former Riverdance dancer, and editor and co-author of The Complete Irish Dancer: Optimization of Health and Performance in Irish Dance. Dr. Cahalan is revolutionizing the field of Irish dance and advancing our understanding of dancer health through her extensive research and her holistic, collaborative approach to dancers' well-being. In this episode, we discuss her research and the areas in which Irish Dance methodology can improve in order to optimize a dancers health. We also discuss the new postgraduate certificate program at the University of Limerick - The Optimization of Health for Performance in Irish Dancers, for which Dr. Cahalan is the Course Director. This online program covers a wide range of topics, including injury prevention, strength and conditioning, nutrition, psychology, and more. It is open to dancers, teachers, healthcare professionals, and parents, emphasizing a collaborative approach to caring for Irish dancers. Follow us on Instagram @BeyondIrishDancePod and on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.

In this fascinating episode Zack Warsaw, who dances and is certified to teach both Irish and Highland Dance and adjudicates Irish Dance as a ADCRG, meets with us to talk about the similarities and differences between Irish Dance and Highland Dance - in movements, music, complexity, and visibility. We talk about how we can foster a deeper sense of Celtic community and grown both dance disciplines through greater collaboration. This episode is being released shortly before our own Celtic Crossroads performance on June 1, 2024 - a collaborate performance between the Carroll-Henderson School of Irish Dance, the Missoula Highland Dancers, and the Celtic Dragon Pipe Band. Zack is a TCRG, ADCRG and a Highland and National Member of the BATD. He is also an Executive Board Member for the Collegiate Irish Dance Association. Follow us on Instagram @BeyondIrishDancePod and on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.

Are you new to Irish Dance and feeling lost when you hear unfamiliar words and phrases? This podcast episode is for you! Join us as we break down the meaning behind common Irish Dance terms that may seem confusing to outsiders or those new to Irish Dance. We give meaning and context to Irish Dance lingo. Follow us on Instagram @BeyondIrishDancePod and on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.

Competative female Irish Dancers often use some type of fake tanners to make their legs pop on stage. How does one get a beautiful fake tan - not one that's orange, green, grey or streaky? Is fake tanner safe? Do other dance disciplines fake tan? We answer all these questions in this episode. Interviews with an esthetician, a dermatologist, and a choreographer shed light on the tips, health risks, and trends associated with fake tanning in dance. The guests provide insights on how to achieve a flawless, long-lasting tan, the safety of tanning products, and the perception of tanning in different dance disciplines. You can find Raeley at Moxie Cosmetic Arts Studio in Missoula, MT at theyhavemoxie.com or on Instagram @moxie.raeley and Moxie studio @theyhavemoxie. Dermatolotist Dr. Dan Hansen can be reached at https://www.northernutahderm.com/dr-hansen. Choreographer Angie Hansen is avaialble at dangiehansen@yahoo.com. Follow us on Instagram @BeyondIrishDancePod and on Apple Podcast, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.

In this eposide, we talk with Riverdance Summer School, Camp Rince Ceol (CRC camp) and Reels in the Rockies about their summer experiences for Irish Dancers. Listener warning: After this episode, you will want to attend all these summer camps! We discuss the wide range of summer camp experiences available for Irish dancers, and the highlights of each program. Hear interviews with Padraic Moyles, Executive Producer/Associate Director of Riverdance and Anna Mai Fitzpatrick, Lead Dancer ofof Riverdance and Instructor of Riverdance Summer School; Sheila Ryan Davoren from CRC Camp; and Cara Casey O'Loughlin of Reels in the Rockies. Find out more about Riverdance Summer School at https://academy.riverdance.com/ or on Instagram @riverdance; Camp Rince Ceol at https://irishdancecamp.com/ or on Instagram @camprinceceol; and Reels in the Rockies at https://www.reelsintherockies.com/ or on Instagram @reelsintherockies. Follow us on Instagram @BeyondIrishDancePod and on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.

Coming back from an injury is demanding - physically and mentally. In this episode with physical therapist Dr. Teresa Drew, we discuss the unique physical demands of Irish Dance and how an Irish Dance trained physical therapist can help safely navigate the return to dance process. Dr. Drew provides wise insight on when to seek professional advice and how to rebuild confidence and trust in your body after an injury. She emphasizes the importance of mental and physical training during rehab and shares funny and memorable moments from her own dancing career. You can find Dr. Drew on Instagram @the.dancing.doc or schedule a free Zoom consultation with her at on Calendly. Follow us on Instagram @BeyondIrishDancePod and on Apple Podcast, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.

in this episode, we explore the power of a healthy mindset with Mindset Coach, World Champion, Producer, and Mentor Scott Doherty. We discuss common mindset challenges faced by dancers - such as managing nerves, building confidence, and dealing with disappointment. Scott provides practical advice on how to overcome these challenges and offers insights into his mindset coaching approach, which focuses on problem-solving, forgiveness, and proper preparation. The discussion also touches on the need for dancers to have a plan A and plan B for performances and the benefits of using a practice journal to improve mindset and performance. Find Scott Doherty at https://scott-doherty.com/ or on Instagram at @thescottydee. His practice journal, Stop "Just" Dancing, is available on Amazon. Follow us on Instagram @BeyondIrishDancePod and on Apple Podasts, Spotift, or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.

In this episode of the Beyond Irish Dance podcast, Oona Harrigan, known on Instagram @wmh_x_0 for her Sad Globes, funny memes, and outrageous dance videos, joins the conversation to discuss her journey from feeling like a nobody in Irish dance to becoming a popular and influential voice in the community. Oona shares her experiences of dealing with imposter syndrome, social anxiety, and the pressures of competition. She emphasizes the importance of being authentic and embracing one's uniqueness, and how her humorous content has resonated with dancers around the world. The conversation also delves into tracking trends in Irish dance, the evolution of men's fashion, and the fun side of sparkly dresses. Oona's vulnerability and honesty bring a refreshing perspective to the challenges and joys of Irish dance. You can find Oona on Instagram @wmh_x_0 and can buy your own Sad Globe embroidered patch at FeistyFitzy.com, or Sad Globe stickers, as well as a collection of other stickers designed by Oona, at RedBubble.com. Follow us on Instagram @BeyondIrishDancePod and on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.

Strength training and conditioning play a crucial role in the performance and longevity of Irish dancers! In this episode, Ellen Waller, Founder and Coach of Target Training, shares her insights on the importance of strength training and conditioning for Irish dancers. She discusses the evolving landscape of Irish dance, the common areas for improvement, and the need to balance mobility, flexibility, and strength. Ellen also provides practical advice on developing a personalized training plan and highlights the benefits of strength training in enhancing power, technique, and reducing the risk of injury. Through the process of examining Sarah and Porter's physiology while dancing, she demonstrates the ways in which common correctings can mean different things for different dancers based on an individuals physical strengths and weaknesses. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned dancer, this episode offers valuable insights and tips to help you become a better performer and competitor in the world of Irish dance. Find Ellen and Target Training at targettrainingdance.com or on Instagram @targettrainingdance. Follow us on Instagram @BeyondIrishDancePod and on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.

In this podcast episode, TCRG Lauren Carroll-Bolger, CEO and head of the Caroll-Henderson School of Irish Dance, provides valuable insights for dancers and parents in the Irish dance world. She emphasizes the importance of enjoying the dance experience and finding passion in the art form. Lauren encourages dancers to have an open mind when learning new steps and to focus on their technique from the beginning. She suggests finding what works best for individual learning and encouraging dancers to practice with intention. Additionally, she advises dancers and parents to set goals and gauge success based on personal growth rather than placement. Lauren reminds dancers to trust their teachers and communicate openly about their goals and concerns. She makes recommendations for dancers, and parents, during performances. Finally, she shares some memorable moments from her own dance career, highlighting the importance of perseverance and learning from mistakes. Find Carroll-Henders School of Irish Dance at https://www.chirishdance.com or on Instagram at c_h_irishdance. You can hear more from Lauren about the growth of her business on the TCRG to CEO Radio podcast. Follow us on Instagram at BeyondIrishDancePod and on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.

Sarah and Porter, along with their mom as the host, introduce themselves in the first episode of 'Beyond Irish Dance'. Sarah talks about her journey from a beginner dancer at a recreational school to competing in prelims, overcoming recent injuries, and discovering her passion for the medical field. Porter shares his enthusiasm for competition, his experience in bagpiping and cross country, and his interest in the technological aspect of the podcast. Together, they offer a unique perspective on the world of Irish dance and the challenges they face as dancers with various extracurricular activities. The episode sets the stage for upcoming interviews, discussions, and insights for both beginner and experienced Irish dancers. On Instagram @BeyondIrishDancePod and on Apple Podcast and Spotify.

Welcome to the Beyond Irish Dance Podcast! We are your hosts, Sarah and Porter Jacobson, dancers with Carroll-Henderson School of Irish Dance; and Jan (their mom). We ask all your Irish dance related questions, and get answers from the experts, so you don't have to. Find us on Instagram at @BeyondIrishDancePod, and don't forget to follow us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, or where ever you listen to your favorite podcasts!