Count Me In : A Dance and Education Podcast

This week Carly & Hannah sit down with friends, colleagues, and founders of the Seattle Dance Collective. Both dancers with Pacific Northwest Ballet, the pair decided they wanted to create more on their own. The four discuss the importance of access to the arts, how Ballet is changing, and the ups and downs of directing a company. Website: https://www.seattledancecollective.org Instagram: @seattle_dance_collective

This week Carly & Hannah sit down with fellow Baltimore native, Miranda Quinn. As a Juilliard Graduate and current member of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre, the three discuss how you can’t judge a book by its cover, and how even linear dance paths are full of challenges. They also learn more about growing up with a studio owner for a mom, and how the pandemic changed her dancing. Miranda Quinn: @mirandaming4 Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, and send email to countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Carly: @CarlyFayedance Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings  

This week is a must listen for all educators! Hannah and Carly talk with consent educator and expert Sarah Casper, creator of Comprehensive Consent. The three talk about how consent manifests in this studio, how teachers can teach important skills, and consent in online environments. Sarah:  @comprehensiveconsent https://comprehensiveconsent.com/find-out-more/ Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, and send email to countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Carly: @CarlyFayedance Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings  

This week, Hannah and Carly talk with Paige Fraser, a professional modern dancer and former dancer with Ailey II and Visceral Dance Chicago. Paige, an advocate for dancers with scoliosis, shares the importance of taking care of your body in a holistic way. Hannah and Page bond over both being diagnosed with scoliosis as young dancers, and dive deep into their own experiences. The three women also talk about the importance of being open to new opportunities throughout a dance career. Paige: @lovingthispaige @thepaigefraserfoundation paigefraser.net thepaigefraserfoundation.org Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, and send email to countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Carly: @CarlyFayedance Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings

This week, Carly and Hannah have the privilege of talking with Courtney Celeste Spears, a dancer with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre. The three women talk about following your own path, being open to new opportunities, and choosing happiness above all else. They also discuss the absolute importance of the arts during the COVID pandemic, and their hopes for the arts in the aftermath. Courtney: @bahamaballerina courtneycelestespears.com Links:  https://www.theaileyschool.edu/programs/professional-division/aileyfordham-bfa-program https://www.artseadance.org/the-team https://www.hbs.edu/crossover/Pages/default.aspx Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, and send email to countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Carly: @CarlyFayedance Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings  

Carly & Hannah continue with the trend of chatting with Carly’s friends and colleagues this week with fellow dance educator & choreographer, Caitlin McAfee. The episode starts off the rails, as these 3 women are extremely passionate. They reign it in to learn more about Caitlin’s upbringing, her tumultuous relationship with Ballet, and how it has affected her teaching. They discuss the differences of teaching in studios vs. public schools, and the importance of real, genuine self care. As a Company Owner/Director, Caitlin shares her philosophies on paying dancers fairly, and finding art in your hometown. Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, and send email to countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Caitlin: @cait.mcafee @blueshiftdance blueshift.dance/ Carly: @CarlyFayedance Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings      

This week, we sit down with Carly’s dear old friend, Christine Sampson. As a former NBA, & NBA All Star Dancer they dive deep into that career path. They discuss the multiple requirements of always being in the spotlight, and representing a brand. Carly and Hannah admire Christine’s endlessly positive attitude, and learn more about her teaching style. She shares tips for students looking to break into the dance team world, as well as business advice..she also owns her own production company! Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, and send email to countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Christine: @ctine16 @rockroulettepro Carly: @CarlyFayedance Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings    

This week, Hannah and Carly have the pleasure of chatting with Hallie Hunt, contemporary dancer, choreographer, and educator. They discuss her serious ballet training as a teenager as well as her transition to the contemporary dance world. Hallie now runs her own contemporary dance company, Adaptations Dance Theater, and teaches on Maui, Hawaii; the three dive deep into her life as a professional there. (Photo by Sarah Quarles) Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, and send email to countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Hallie: @halliewallieballie @adaptationsdancetheater Adaptationsdancetheater.com Carly: @CarlyFayedance Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings  

Hannah and Carly get to dive deep into the competition dance world this week with dance teacher and judge, Miranda Zimmerman-Spada. They discuss the importance of having conversations with varied opinions and view points. They also discuss the benefits of competitive dance, and how it has shaped them as dancers and humans. Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, and send email to countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Miranda: @mirandarosespada @tonawandadance Carly: @CarlyFayedance Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings  

Casey Herd has worked with just about every ballet company you can think of! A former principal dancer of Pacific Northwest Ballet and Dutch National Ballet, Hannah and Carly ask him a lot of questions on the nitty gritty of the ballet world. Casey discusses his experience training in ballet as a young boy, and his new organization, Ballet Rising, which is joining a movement ‘to make ballet a truly global art form that welcomes all to take part. Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, and send email to countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Casey: @caseyhphoto Ballet Rising: @balletrising Balletrising.com Carly: @CarlyFayedance Hannah: @hannahmae92 Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings  

Carly and Hannah chat with choreographer, dance educator, and all around boss Mary Roberts. They dive deep into equality and pay for dancers of all ages and backgrounds, different cultures of dance across different states, as well as commercial vs. collegiate dance. Hannah gets to “nerd out” about education a bit, and they continue the conversation regarding social media and young dancers. Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, and send email to countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Mary: @msmaryroberts Carly: @CarlyFayedance Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings  

This week, Carly and Hannah sit down with Founder & Owner of Rhythm Works Integrative Dance with Tricia Gomez. They learn about her path California and building several of her own companies. Hannah and Carly have the opportunity to learn more about educating children with learning differences, and how movement can change learning in so many ways. Tricia shares knowledge and wisdom, while crediting how collaborative her process has been. Tricia Gomez: @rhythmworksid Rhythmworksid.com Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, and send email to countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Rhythm Works Integrative Dance with Tricia Gomez Carly: @CarlyFayedance Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings  

Hannah and Carly went live on Instagram and recorded their short conversation about Ballet NOT being the foundation of all dance. This is part of the common dance vernacular, and they are both guilty of saying it in the past. They discuss how damaging this is, and how we as dance educators need to do better. They did not start this conversation. Carly & Hannah are super grateful for other dancers, and educators having these conversations so they too can learn more. Please check out: The Dance Union Podcast: @thedanceunion Dance Boss with Erin Pride: @erinpride

This week, Hannah and Carly chat with fellow Marylander and ballet dancer, Emily Runkle. Emily shares her experience of starting ballet as a tween, as well as how she played catch up in order to dance professionally. She touches on building camaraderie in the studio and how she learned to love teaching. The women dive deep into the journey of staging an evening of original ballets, all the way from the first inkling to the final performance. Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, and send email to countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Building a Ballet with Emily Runkle Carly: @CarlyFayedance Emily: @emilyrunkle @_balletembody_ Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings  

Carly and Hannah are going international again! They sit down with Heather Star Benson, who is originally from ATL and now resides in London. The women discuss how the UK differs from the states, and Heather’s well traveled stateside career. They dive deep into Heather’s love of Horton, and how she is one of London’s only Horton Technique instructors. They discuss the challenges of relocating to another country, as well as the benefits from stepping outside of your comfort zone. Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, and send email to countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Carly: @CarlyFayedance Heather: @dancinstarburst Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings  

Carly and Hannah sit down with former Ailey Dancer, and current member of Parsons Dance, Deidre Rogan. They discuss her journey from college into professional dance companies, and expectations from directors. They also discuss the challenges of juggling multiple jobs in NYC. Hannah and Carly are thrilled to learn more about Parsons’ outreach, and how they share dance with students with learning differences. Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, and send email to countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Thriving in concert dance with Deidre Rogan Carly: @CarlyFayedance Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings  

This week, Hannah and Carly chat and laugh with performer Patrick Garr, who is currently touring with Hamilton. Patrick excitedly talks about his journey through performing arts school and college, and describes how and when he truly learned to act. The three discuss the NYC dance community, and how it compares to his hometown in Kentucky. He also shares his ultimate teaching goal: inspiring his students while sharing in the messiness of being human.  Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, and send email to countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Bringing Human Emotions into Dance with Patrick Garr Carly: @CarlyFayedance Patrick: @mrpatrickg @maninmotionnyc www.patrickgarr.com Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings  

This week Carly and Hannah sit down with 13 year Giordano Dance Company member, Maeghan McHale. They learn how she started dancing and the influence of her big sister. They discuss not having the “ideal” body, and reflect on resiliency being a dancer’s most important quality. They dive deep into Maeghan’s life since leaving Giordano and finding her love of teaching. Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, and send email to countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Instagram: @maeghanmchale Carly: @CarlyFayedance Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings

This week, Hannah and Carly talk with Carrie Millikin Euker, longtime teacher, performer, and adjudicator. They discuss Carrie’s upbringing in ballet, how she learned to teach, and her teaching style. They discuss how teaching is different in cities across the country, and Carrie shares what she learned by working with dancers with special needs. Finally, Carrie touches on what it’s like to be a new ‘dance mom.’ Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, and send email to countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Carrie Millikin Euker: www.CMEuker.com Carly: @CarlyFayedance Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings  

This week Hannah and Carly excitedly chat with Briana Ashley Stuart all the way in Brussels, Belgium. Originally from Michigan, Briana shares a lot of tips for moving, dancing, and freelancing abroad. The three discuss the ‘goal’ of dancing and career paths in the arts. She also shares her teaching style and class culture, is universal no matter what you age you are. Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, and send email to countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Briana: @BrianaAshleyStuart Carly: @CarlyFayedance Hannah: @hannahmae92 Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings  

This week, Hannah and Carly talk with Andrea Trench, founder of Discover Dance and dance educator of all ages. The three focus heavily on dancing with children under the age of six, and Andrea offers several strategies for teachers. They also discuss how important a teacher’s job is and why pedagogical training is key.   Resources: Creative Dance for All Ages by Anne Green Gilbert Brain Brain-Compatible Dance Education by Anne Green Gilbert Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, and send email to countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! discoverdance_education Carly: @CarlyFayedance Hannah: @hannahmae92 Andrea: @discoverdance_education Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings  

In their April episode, hosts Hannah and Carly have plenty to chat about! They discuss the challenges of teaching from home, as well as some unexpected positives. Hannah shares some learning from home tips, easy for any caretaker to implement. Hannah also shares some other podcasts to check out, and of course her monthly article.   Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, and send email to countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Carly: @CarlyFayedance Hannah: @hannahmae92 Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings     Article link: Uncover & Unleash Students’ Creative Potential Podcasts to check out All Things Montessori Armchair Expert: Armchair Expert with Jessica Lahey Armchair Expert with Wendy Mogel

This week Carly and Hannah go down memory lane with one of Hannah’s former duet partners, formerly Peter Pan in the National Tour of Finding Neverland, and currently Tantomile in National Tour of Cats!, Melody Rose. They share fond anecdotes and memories of Melody’s work ethic and talent, as well as their former Ballet Teacher Ashley Canterna-Hardy. They discuss the grind of NYC auditions, how to get your equity card, and how to make the most of your conservatory experience. Melody shares the ins and outs of tour life, and what she hopes for students of her master classes, all while keeping the most positive attitude the podcast has ever seen. Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, and send email to countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Melody: @melodyrose Carly: @CarlyFayedance Hannah: @hannahmae92 Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings      

This week Carly and Hannah sit down with dancer, choreographer, adjudicator, and founder of Fearless Dance Intensive Sheena DiMatteo. They learn Sheena has choreographed close to 100 routines this season alone, and they learn more about the process and how to organize that amount of choreography. They discuss the importance, or value, of winning and receiving an award, and should that be necessary for growth? They also discuss the challenges of growing up with a highly successful brother and parents who were both coaches.    Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, and send email to countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Instagram: @sheenadimatteo @fearlessdanceintensive Carly: @CarlyFayedance Hannah: @hannahmae92 Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings  

This week Carly and Hannah sit down with fellow adjudicator, dancer, and choreographer Alexis Evans. They learn about Alexis’s diverse training and performance background, and how being adaptable has helped the longevity of her career. They FINALLY get to learn more about auditioning and training on the west coast, and how it compares and contrasts to the east. The 3 women dive deep into the topic of social media, and Alexis shares a heart warming favorite memory.    Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, and send email to countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Alexis: @_alexisevans Carly: @CarlyFayedance Hannah: @hannahmae92 Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings  

Hannah sat this episode out, so we could have THREE special guests! Stacie Cratty & Jessica Mougis return, and Jennifer Aversa (Carly’s current employer) finally makes an appearance. The women discuss the challenges of social distancing during the current pandemic. They also discuss some of the more positive moments, finding time to slow down, and stop having such high expectations of themselves. They discuss what they’re all learning during this time and additionally share more resources for teachers, parents, and business owners. Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, and send email to countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! Carly: @CarlyFayedance Stacie Cratty: @srcratty  Jessica Mougis: @jessica.mougis  Jen Aversa: @danceconnectionsinc Hannah: @hannahmae92 Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings Kids Yoga Podcast: @thekidsyogapodcast Flow & Grow Yoga: www.flowandgrowkidsyoga.com : @flowandgrowyoga Cosmic Kids Yoga:  https://www.cosmickids.com/.  :  @cosmickidsyoga  Karma Kids Yoga:  https://www.karmakidsyoga.com/ : @karmakidsyoga  Yogi Beans : https://yogibeans.com/ : @yogi_beans  Alice Klock : Flockworks Dance : www.flockworksdance.com : www.klockonian.com: @klockonian    

This week, Hannah and Carly meet with twol returning guests, Kim Dodson and Jenna Smith to discuss what being a freelance dancer is like during the current pandemic. The four chat about making new routines, releasing the pressure to be busy, and taking in the huge wave of online content. They also touch on the moments they are grateful for and hopes for the future. Kim and Jenna share resources for dancers as well as ways all of us can support artists during this time. Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, and send email to countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! Resources from this episode:  *Broadway Cares Equity Fight Aids - online fundraiser to assist entertainment community (both onstage and behind the scenes) during COVID 19: https://broadwaycares.org/fundraising-campaign-helps-theater-community-during-covid-19-pandemic/ *The Actors Fund - providing economic assistance to those in need: https://actorsfund.org/am-i-eligible-help *The Drama League - offers Directors Emergency Relief Fund http://www.dramaleague.org/covidresources/directorsfund * Heatwise yoga www.heatwise-studio.com Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Carly: @CarlyFayedance Kim Dodson: @kdotsdotcom Jenna Rae Smith: @jrae13 @thebeerbb Hannah: @hannahmae92 Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings

After a week off, and amidst the pandemic chaos, Carly is back (without Hannah) to chat with Nathaniel Hunt. A former MD dancer and graduate from AACPS, Nate shares his late start in dance and how he ended up dancing with Ailey II, & The Met Opera. They discuss how important representation is, and the challenges in body image for men in dance. His favorite memory may be our favorite of all time as well! Instagram: @nathanielhunt_ Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, and send email to countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Carly: @CarlyFayedance Nathaniel: @nathanielhunt_ Hannah: @hannahmae92 Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings  

Carly and Hannah were thrilled to sit down with the Dance Teacher Specialist for the Health, Phys Ed, and Dance Department of Anne Arundel County Public Schools, Nicole Deming (MAEd, BFA). The 3 women discuss the impact having dance easily accessible, and how that shaped all of their lives. They dive deeper into the never ending organization, challenges, and triumphs of managing a dance program for 78,000 students. Nicole also shares wisdom on her journey from student, to educator, to her current position.  Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, and send email to countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Carly: @CarlyFayedance Hannah: @hannahmae92 Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings

Monthly episode featuring hosts Carly & Hannah without a guest. The sisters dive deep into the concept of repetition with variety, and provide tangible ideas on how to do this in the classroom and studio. They discuss a NY Times article about the expense of extracurricular activities, both financially and mentally. Next month: parent education and communication! Article link: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/02/13/parenting/extracurriculars-kids-costs.html?referringSource=articleShare Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, screen shot it, and send it to us countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! The first several people to do so will win a prize! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Carly: @CarlyFayedance Hannah: @hannahmae92 Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings

This week Carly and Hannah sit down with another PhD candidate, but in a different field. Professional dancer, adjudicator, educator, and teacher (and Historian!) Chloe Roberts talks about the benefits of being involved in a multitude of things, time management, and staying organized. They dive deep into Chloe’s teaching philosophies and discover how much they align with Montessori Principles. Her favorite moment at the end of the episode might be our favorite one yet!  Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, screen shot it, and send it to us countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! The first several people to do so will win a prize! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Chloe: @chloerobertsdance Carly: @CarlyFayedance Hannah: @hannahmae92 Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings

This week, Carly and Hannah continue to study the benefits of higher education in dance, and the challenges that come along with it. As a professor and doctoral candidate, Denise Purvis shares insight into starting your own company, being a perpetual student, and craving a title. She also shares the importance of somatic work and how it changed her life. Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, screen shot it, and send it to us countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! The first several people to do so will win a prize! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Carly: @CarlyFayedance Hannah: @hannahmae92 Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings  

This week Carly and Hannah sit down with professional dancer turned teacher and dance agent, Deandra Clarke. They learn about Deandra’s journey to owning Studio 4 Dance Agency, her non-traditional and “late” start to dance, and all the ups and downs along the way. They dive deeper into the popular belief that Ballet is the foundation of everything, and decide maybe it isn’t. Deandra also shares the benefits of representation and some tips for dancers out there to finding the right agent. on’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, screen shot it, and send it to us countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! The first several people to do so will win a prize! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! https://www.studio4dancellc.com/ Deandra: @danceCEO @studio4danceAgency @rvadanceawards Carly: @CarlyFayedance Hannah: @hannahmae92 Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings  

February’s edition of Carly & Hannah talking all things dance education and Montessori. Hannah stumps Carly with a question about building independence and they discuss a relevant article selected by Hannah. (Link below) They answer a challenging listener email which served as great reminders for them, and for any educators listening. Link to NYT Article: “For Sibling Battles, Be a Sportscaster, Not a Referee” by Heather Turgeon Link to All Things Montessori Podcast: “The Magic of Going Out” Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, screen shot it, and send it to us countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! The first several people to do so will win a prize! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Carly: @CarlyFayedance Hannah: @hannahmae92 Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings      

Carly and Hannah are back with another UMBC Alum, Tania Long! Tania is a dancer, teacher, mother, and now studio owner, so they have plenty to discuss. Tania shares stories from her childhood and how she turned negative experiences with dance teachers into positive change. Her love of dance made her work harder and persevere, despite the outrageous comments made by her dance teacher. She also shares her love of children, how she became a teacher, and some great advice for fellow studio owners. They also discuss the importance of representation and how to make every student feel welcomed and included. Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, screen shot it, and send it to us countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! The first several people to do so will win a prize! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Tania's Studio: https://www.dimensions-dancecenter.com/ Tania:@nia_long10 @dancewithddc Carly: @CarlyFayedance Hannah: @hannahmae92 Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings

This week Hannah and Carly sit down with a fellow dance educator outside of their own circle. They have their first ever guest from Kentucky! The three women share their thoughts about how to become better teachers, tangible tips for doing so, and much more. Taylor fell in love with Modern Dance in college and shares how she uses her knowledge to better educate her dancers for college, and create more collegiate like experiences for them. The 3 also nerd out on the podcast a bit, and discuss the importance of finding your dance home. Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, screen shot it, and send it to us countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! The first several people to do so will win a prize! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Instagram: @taylormclements Carly: @CarlyFayedance Hannah: @hannahmae92 Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings

This week’s guest is the Global Program Director for Wingman for Dance. Hannah has the chance to learn what Wingman is all about, and couldn’t be more impressed. The three women discuss responding to tragedy and how to serve your students best after they experience real trauma. They also pick Jessica’s brain about team building activities, how to train better leaders, and shifting our language as teachers. Jess even shares tangible activities and tips for educators, dance and classroom, to implement!  Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, screen shot it, and send it to us countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! The first several people to do so will win a prize! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Wingman: @wingman4dance Website: https://www.wingmanfordance.org/ Jess: @jessmichaels_777 Carly: @CarlyFayedance Hannah: @hannahmae92 Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings  

This week Carly and Hannah sit down with choreographer, teacher, opportunity creator Lauren Carnesi Daniels. They jump right in and learn about Lauren’s journey with Lupus, and how it has shaped her choreographic process and teaching style. They also learn about her struggle to pick a college after high school, but how everything happens for a reason. They finish up the episode with Carly’s favorite topic: exploiting tragedy for trophies, and discuss choreographing for performance spaces and the competition stage.  Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, screen shot it, and send it to us countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! The first several people to do so will win a prize! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Lauren: @lcd.dance Carly: @CarlyFayedance Hannah: @hannahmae92 Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings  

Today Carly and Hannah talk to fellow dance educator and long time friend, Eve Holmes Varner. They reminisce about the past and Hannah and Eve’s competitive duet. They also learn about her challenges before starting college, and how resilence is the best way to achieve success. Eve shares wisdom surrounding overcoming obstacles, teaching ballet safely, and meeting her students at their level. All three women discuss how challenging it can be to promote a healthy body image while still struggling with it yourself, and it is always an ongoing process. Instagram:  Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, screen shot it, and send it to us countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! The first several people to do so will win a prize! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Eve: @eveholmesvarner Carly: @CarlyFayedance Hannah: @hannahmae92 Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings  

This week Carly and Hannah sit down with NYC dancer Maria Gardner. They discuss her childhood as a competitive dancer and how it shaped her crooked path to being a professional. They learn her journey to Point Park is not what they expected and they discuss the challenges of living in New York City. They dive deeper into making a professional dance career work, having to hold multiple jobs, but keeping dance in the center. They also learn more about dance opportunities abroad and how a dancer’s training is never complete.  Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, screen shot it, and send it to us countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! The first several people to do so will win a prize! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Maria: @down2_mars Carly: @CarlyFayedance Hannah: @hannahmae92 Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings  

Carly and Hannah have been trying to secure Doug Hamby as a guest forever! Finally, in the midst of his retirement, the tenured professor from Carly & Hannah’s Alma Mater, UMBC, sits down for an in depth conversation. The 3 discuss the challenges of starting dance at an older age, how much New York’s art scene has changed, and the shift he has seen in his 33 year long run at a University. He shares incredible stories of his time with Martha Graham’s company, and Carly has the chance to share what an impact he had on her dance career. There was no shortage of questions for Doug since he experienced the golden age of art, and has had such a long career. He answers them all tenfold. Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, screen shot it, and send it to us countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! The first several people to do so will win a prize! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Doug Hamby: @hambydouglas Carly: @CarlyFayedance Hannah: @hannahmae92 Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings    

Carly and Hannah excitedly sit down with professional dancer, master teacher, and choreographer Grace Buckley this week. Grace shares her relatable and inspiring story of burn out, and how she currently keeps her passion for dance alive. She shares stories from her hyper competitive past, the challenges of getting back into dance as an adult, and recovering from an injury on her first professional tour. As a choreographer for World of Dance, she also gives us a little sneak peak into choreographing for the camera, and the high pressure stakes of TV. Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, screen shot it, and send it to us countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! The first several people to do so will win a prize! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Grace: @gracebuckleychoreography Carly: @CarlyFayedance Hannah: @hannahmae92 Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings  

This week Carly & Hannah chat with fellow competition judge and studio owner Jessica Wellington. They learn about the indirect path that lead Jessica to owning The Pennsylvania Dance Company, the ups and the downs. Carly & Hannah are flabbergasted by how Jess was treated by her former agent, but impressed by how she bounced back. They discuss how dance can bring anyone confidence, and how important that was for Jessica growing up. Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, screen shot it, and send it to us countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! The first several people to do so will win a prize! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Jessica: @pa_dance_co @jesswellington49 Website: www.Dancer-fitness.com Carly: @CarlyFayedance Hannah: @hannahmae92 Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings Contact: countmeinpodcast@gmail.com

This week Carly and Hannah sit down with competitive dancer turned personal trainer, Katie Groven. Katie is an ACSM certified personal trainer, and the creator of Dance-fitness.com. The 3 women dive deep into how important cross training, and strength training is for dancers, starting at the age of 6! Carly and Hannah learn a lot of anatomy, and Katie shares some helpful, tangible exercises for any dance teacher to introduce into their class. They discuss body image, and how showing girls how STRONG they can be may help combat all those nasty self destructive thoughts. Check out dancer-fitness.com to learn more, and gain access to Katie’s incredible online data base designed to transform competitive dancers into athletic powerhouses!    Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, screen shot it, and send it to us countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! The first several people to do so will win a prize! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Katie: @dancer_fitness.com_  @katiegroven Website: www.Dancer-fitness.com Carly: @CarlyFayedance Hannah: @hannahmae92 Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings Contact: countmeinpodcast@gmail.com

This week Carly & Hannah sit down with professional dancer, choreographer, & educator Nicole Ruark. As a former colleague, Hannah was impressed by her attention to detail and versatility. The three dive into the pressures of a performing career, and the challenges of recovering from injuries. They dive deep into the importance of diversifying your education and not getting pushed into a box. They touch on their favorite subject, college dance and how she educated her students!    Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, screen shot it, and send it to us countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! The first several people to do so will win a prize! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Nicole: @nruark Carly: @CarlyFayedance Hannah: @hannahmae92 Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings Contact: countmeinpodcast@gmail.com

This week Carly and Hannah sit down with their favorite studio owner, former employer, and mentor Jeanne Mattis. The 3 reminisce about the time spent together at Design in Motion, and their shared Alma Mater UMBC. Jeanne shares touching stories from her childhood as well as some tips for other studio owners! The conversation is full of joy from start to finish. It will remind you how amazing and therapeutic dance, connection, and serving others can be!    Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, screen shot it, and send it to us countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! The first several people to do so will win a prize! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Instagram: @designinmotion Designinmotiondance.com Carly: @CarlyFayedance Hannah: @hannahmae92 Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings Contact: countmeinpodcast@gmail.com

This week Carly & Hannah excitedly sit down with a familiar face from their competition days. Steve Wappel, Founder & Owner of Starquest International, has owned an extremely successful dance competition for 27 years. The 3 reminisce about the days where he handed them trophies, and what it was like to have a daughter competing at your own competition. They dive deep into how competitions and dance studios have changed, and gain some inside information on the future of dance competitions. Steve shares interesting stories from his performance past, his stage managing days, to his current competition endeavors. Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, screen shot it, and send it to us countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! The first several people to do so will win a prize! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Steve: @stevewappel Starquest: @starquestdance www.Starquestdance.com Carly: @CarlyFayedance Hannah: @hannahmae92 Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings Contact: countmeinpodcast@gmail.com  

You asked for it, and you got it! This week Carly & Hannah respond to the overwhelming amount of requests to record without a guest. They catch up, and do some checking in with how their year is going and what they’re working on. Then they dive into some emails, and questions from listeners about a variety of topics, including: using social media in the dance studio, is it ever too late to start dance, and why there is still a gender gap in the dance world. They have a great time getting back to basics. Don’t forget to write a review in Apple podcasts, screen shot it, and send it to us countmeinpodcast@gmail.com! The first several people to do so will win a prize!   Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Carly: @CarlyFayedance Hannah: @hannahmae92 Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings Contact: countmeinpodcast@gmail.com

This week Carly & Hannah discuss the ever popular subject of how dancers continue dancing after graduation day! They sit down with expert, LaWanda Raines, BFA from VCU, MFA from St. Mary’s College. The three women discuss the challenges of educating teens on the variety of dance careers, the value of representation in the dance world, and how much more work the dance community and society have to do. LaWanda elaborates on how many options are out there, and how your path is not always the most straight forward. She even shares some audition horror stories, and a sweet favorite memory.   Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Carly: @CarlyFayedance Hannah: @hannahmae92 Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings Contact: countmeinpodcast@gmail.com  

This week Carly and Hannah sit down with fellow Baltimore native, and now NYC resident, Courtney Ortiz. The three discuss how competitive dance has significantly changed over the years, in both positive and negative ways, and Courtney shares brutally honest opinions about the competitive dance world. As a dance professional, and sought after teacher, Courtney also discusses the deep respect she had for her teachers growing up, and the life lessons she learned from dance competitions. Carly & Hannah are most impressed by her starting her own company, Impact Dance Adjudicators, to fill a need that the competition market desperately needed. Impact Dance Adjudicators is the only company to supply dance competitions with pre-screened, educated Adjudicators who have working industry knowledge in all styles of dance, as well as teachers of all ages and levels in the classroom. Courtney also offers a discount to listeners for IDA’s online judges critiques! Promo code below! Website: https://www.impactdanceadjudicators.com/ https://www.impactdanceadjudicators.com/onlinecritiques Use promo code: PODCAST to receive 10% off of online critiques! Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Carly: @CarlyFayedance Hannah: @hannahmae92 Courtney: @courtney.ortiz @impactdanceadjudicators Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings Contact: countmeinpodcast@gmail.com    

This week Carly and Hannah talk to James Washington, Point Park Graduate, Professional dancer, and current Dance Department Lead at an esteemed Performing Arts Highschool in Pittsburgh, PA. The 3 discuss the challenges and advantages of being a male dancer, and reminisce over their positive shared competition experiences. James sheds some light on transitioning into a leadership role in a Performing Arts Highschool, and how draining that schedule can be. He also shares how creating more opportunities for his students than he had himself, is his overarching goal.  Follow us on instagram @countmeinpodcast, and rate on iTunes! Carly: @CarlyFayedance Hannah: @hannahmae92 James Washington: @jawashi1 Producer Corey: @CoreyJennings Contact: countmeinpodcast@gmail.com