JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance Podcast

Send us a textWelcome back Jam Fam!  We are excited to share our conversation with the fantastic Courtney Briggs!  Courtney is a wealth of knowledge and a ball of energy and this conversation covered so many things!  An educator, competition and convention teacher and director, she does it all.  We know you will love our chat with Courtney Briggs!Courtney believes to stay inspired about teaching, choreographing and mentoring,  you need to remain curious about learning and challenging your current knowledge. Courtney's first drive was dancing herself, training within various disciplines under different educators. Later in her education she trained at a select pre professional company where the elements of business, branding and industry relations were taught and explored. As she transitioned into her professional career in Los Angeles, CA her drive shifted into education and early childhood development. She was given many opportunities to build and manage kids dance programs within studios, create and direct a competition team, develop curriculums to support preschool to early elementary learning as well as an assistant program within dance studios to educate up and coming teachers on the craft of being an educator. She continues her work in early childhood development and education. She is also currently moving into her 9th season with Dupree Dance Competition and Convention where she has had the opportunity of having various titles over the years as Lead Assistant, Collective Program Coordinator and currently the Assistant Event Director and the newest addition of teaching within their young education program and being the director of that program. Courtney's driving force with any discipline of work is to support and lift the people, the knowledge and culture within it, to build the individual and group to thrive.Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Send us a textWelcome back Jam Fam!  Happy to share with all of you our episode with Dana Generette!  Dana's background is diverse and we had a wonderful conversation around dance in studios, dance teams and touched on her career as a pro cheerleader!  She is an inspiration to her students and she inspired us with her insight.  We hope you enjoy our episode with Dana Generette!Dana Generette is a graduate of Winthrop University with a Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science. She is a native of Sumter, SC where she trained for 16 years in ballet, jazz, tap, lyrical, contemporary, musical theatre, and hip hop. Dana has won numerous dance scholarships and received high honors while performing all throughout the southeast region. While attending Winthrop, she was chosen to perform in several Winthrop Dance Theatre pieces and had the opportunity to attendand perform at the American College Dance Association Regional Conference. She also served as captain of the Winthrop University dance team. While finishing her degree, Dana was selected to perform professionally as a Carolina Panthers Cheerleader.Dana's current role is Artistic Director, choreographer, instructor, and adjudicator. She travels and teaches at different studios in the southeast. She has completed Dance Teacher Certification from UNLV and certification in Progressing Ballet Technique. Dana hopes that sharing her love for dance and knowledge of the arts will help inspire her students to become artist who never settle.She believes that mindset training is just as important as dance training, and having a strong sense of focus and discipline will allow her students to accomplish their dreams. Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Send us a textWelcome back Jam Fam!  What a fantastic season we have had so far, and today's episode adds to that!  Today we talk ballet with the fabulous Heather Jean Wilson.  Her Baa Baa Ballet  and preschool curriculum are used around the country and we had a wonderful time chatting ballet, pre-school, and all things dance.  We hope you enjoy our episode with Heather Jean Wilson!Heather Jean Wilson is a committed professor, teaching artist, performing artist,writer, founder, photographer, choreographer, and mother. She has trained, danced, or collaborated with former members of Joffrey, Ballet Russe De Monte Carlo, NYCB, ABT, Mongolian Opera, and Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet. Heather has taught, guested, and lectured diverse student populations, including preschool through dance professionals, university students, adults, and senior citizens. She has trained vibrant dancers who perform in all mediums of dance, from classical ballet companies, to Broadway, sports, and beyond.Ms Wilson has founded schools and companies, created small works and full length ballets, built curricula, and instituted countless outreach services and events. She is known for inventing innovative teaching methods, and is the Founder of Baa Baa Ballet, Preschool Dance Curriculum and Grunt if You Understand, method of Ballet Instruction.Heather is a mother of four children, 2 of whom are dancers! She is a competitive archer holding state and sectional titles. She enjoys family, motorcycling, camping, skiing, and time on the water.Heather Wilson possesses infectious energy and enthusiasm, and loves to inspire everyone in the room to love Ballet more than they did before her class. Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Send us a textWelcome back Jam Fam!  Another great episode today withe the wonderful Michelle Maskas!  Michelle is a wealth of knowledge and has numerous certifications to had to her resume.  We talk all things dance, as usual, with some fun stories thrown in.  We hope you enjoy our episode with Michelle Maskas.Michelle believes in supporting our local communities to help the younger generations thrive! She began her dance journey at the age of 8, where she studied all styles of dance. During her dance training, she attended competitions and workshops, taking classes from some of the biggest names in the industry. Upon high school graduation, Mrs.Maskas continued her education at PennState obtaining a business management degree and graduated with the highest GPA in her class. She also continued her dance training by attending Dance Masters of America and Dance Educators of America's Teachers Training Programs. Both organizations are known for requiring teachers to test their dance knowledge before becoming a member. She is a proud member of Dance Educators of America, Dance Masters of America, Dance Masters of Pennsylvania & Pennsylvania Dance Education Organization. She trains recreational and competitive dancers to enjoy the art of dance. Her certifications include: Acrobatic Arts, ALICE training, and National Federation of High School Concussion certification. She trains recreational and competitive level dancers to enjoy the art of dance and all it has to offer. Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Send us a textWelcome back Jam Fam!  We know you are going to love our chat with Andrea Kron.  Andrea is a wealth of knowledge, having been in the dance world as a performer, educator and choreographer.  Her credits speak for themselves, and you can see why we had her on the show.  Andrea received her Certificate of Dance from The Ailey School NYC where she was part of the Student Performance Ensemble and toured the New York metropolitan area. She has studied with the late Kevin Rotardier, the late David Howard, Milton Myers, Ann Reinking, the late Tony Stevens, Dorit Koppel, and Savion Glover.Performance credits include Radio City Music Hall, Helen Hayes Theatre, Hercules on Broadway at the New Amsterdam Theatre, the role of Arabian in The Nutcracker as a guest artist as well as dancing as a Rockette in Cremaster 3, an independent film at the Guggenheim Museum,  directed by Matthew Barney.  She has also premiered numerous dance works at the Two River Theater, Silk City Arts Festival and SUNY New Paltz.As a choreographer, Andrea has created over fifty repertory works for students and professional companies ranging in style from classical to Modern to Musical Theatre, including full length versions of ballets to full scale musicals.  Some of her favorite shows and performances include A Funny Thing...Forum, Chicago, and Guys and Dolls. Other regional productions include Grease,  Annie, Bye Bye Birdie, Godspell and Footloose.Andrea guest teaches ballet, Horton modern, theatre dance, audition technique, injury prevention and Pilates.  She has designed injury prevention programs that fuse dance, science and anatomy so that students have a better understanding of how their bodies work.  Teaching credits include Broadway Dance Center, Marymount Manhattan College, SUNY New Paltz, and Montclair State University. She coaches students and professionals in NYC for auditions and college bound performers.Today's episode is brought to you by the Commercial Dance Experience at Seton Hill University.  For more information or to apply, go to:  setonhill_dancedept and follow the link in bio on Instagram!Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Send us a textWelcome back Jam Fam!  Today we have a Mind, Body, Soul episode with the wonderful Nicole Sabella.  We talk confidence, training and all things to help contribute to well rounded dancers, including nutrition.  We hope you enjoy our chat with Nicole.Disclaimer: The information shared in this episode is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider or registered dietitian before making changes to your nutrition, wellness, or lifestyle practices. Everyone's body is different—what works for one person may not work for another.Nicole Sabella is a multi-passionate dance professional! She toured the world as a core member of the Mark Morris Dance Group for a decade. Now, she's a dedicated dance educator, certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, Certified EFT Tapping Practitioner, and sought-after wellness workshop facilitator. Nicole founded The Nourished Dancer in 2020, offering one-on-one coaching and group workshops that empower dancers with practical tools and heightened inspiration to level up their dance lives from the inside out. She has led nutrition and wellness workshops at several distinguished dance institutions like Joffrey Ballet School and Princeton University Ballet, among others. Additionally, Nicole is currently on faculty teaching dance at New York City Ballet Outreach Programs and The School at Mark Morris Dance Group. It's an honor to contribute to the Make It Happen Academy!Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Send us a textHey Jam Fam, we are excited for you to listen to our new episode with the talented, Molly Moon.  Molly is a dance educator with years of experience as well as a dance mom.  We get her take on the business side of dance, running a studio while your child is on the team, and so much more!  We loved our chat with Molly and know you will too!MOLLY MOON... grew up dancing in Columbus, Ohio. During college she trainedextensively at the BalletMet in Columbus and competed in all styles of dance including tap, jazz,ballet, lyrical, hip hop, musical theatre, pointe, pom, acrobatics and contemporary. Molly hashad the pleasure of training under esteemed industry professionals including Marge Flemingand Ellie Hite. She has over 30 years of judging experience which includes Showbiz Talent,Mark of Excellence, StarQuest International, PrimeTime Talent, and Starz Dance Competition.She has experience in pageantry and is a retired varsity cheerleading coach. Currently, Molly isthe sole founder and competition director for Studio C School of Dance in Canal Winchester,Ohio. Her studio's competition company consistently receives outstanding scores at regionaland national dance competitions. Molly enjoys touring to teach master classes and creates choreography for several studios all over the nation specializing in tap. Molly was named StarzDance Competition Tap Choreographer for Nationals in 2023/2024 season as well as theirintensive tap instructor. Molly keeps her dance skills current with the latest techniques byattending dance conventions and workshops. Molly is also a “dance mom” for her son that hasfollowed in her foot steps and specializes in the style of tap.Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Send us a textWelcome back Jam Fam, for another great season with Joe and Michelle.  We are so pleased to be sharing some new topics with you this season and have a great line up of guests ready to share their insight.  Thank you for listening, liking and following!  We appreciate you.  Now lets get into it!Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Send us a textAnother great season!  Thank you Jam Fam for all of your likes and follows.  Thank you to our incredible guests for their time and knowledge.  We love doing this and we couldn't do it without you.Enjoy our wrap up conversation!Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Send us a textJam Fam, you are in for a treat this week.  Our guest is know world wide and has worked with some legends!  We are excited to share our talk with AC Ciulla!Name sound familiar?  It should.  AC choreographed and was Tony nominated for his work on the Broadway show Footloose.  He is also Emmy nominated and has worked with some of the biggest stars on stage and television.  His career spans Broadway, Television, and even the Miss America Stage. Oh, and did we mention he worked with Michael Jackon?  We hope you enjoy our talk with AC Ciulla.AC Ciulla, Choreographer/Artistic DirectorEMMY Award Winner (Stars On Ice)TONY Nominated Broadway Choreographer for the hit Musical Footloose and the Winner of the FANY (People's Choice Award) for the best choreography on Broadway. AC has recently been working with Superstar and Fashion Icon BILLY PORTER, choreographing his music video and music tour. He Co-Created and choreographed TONI BRAXTON's hit residency at the Flamingo Showroom and LIBRA Tour. AC's work has been seen in films, many commercials including a top five SuperBowl spot and television events including a DGA Award (Directors Guild Award)He appeared on three seasons as a guest choreographer for Ukraines SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE, where he was given the title, “the king of contemporary”.He also choreographed Savvy Shield's winning dance solo (Miss America Winner 2017)AC made his Broadway debut at the age of 19 in STARLIGHT EXPRESS. He was a soloist with the Phili based dance company Waves. AC was a C&C Music Factory Dancer and was in many Music Videos. He was an eight time Winner & Semi-Finalists on STAR SEARCH and had the honor of dancing along side of MICHAEL JACKSON.Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Send us a textWelcome back Jam Fam!  Today we speak with a fantastic educator, adovacate and ally to everyone in the dance world, Anthony Alterio!  Anthony has taught in higher education for some time and has some wonderful insight for dancers getting ready to move into the college scene and the dance world.  We hope you enjoy our chat with AnthonyAnthony Alterio is on faculty at Ohio University. He works in the School of Dance and the School of Theatre as Assistant Professor of Instruction, Musical Theatre and Dance. His research explores how representations of identities in the LGBTQIA+ community in pop culture reflect in academic settings as part of a larger interest in how dancers present themselves. Anthony is a native of Pittsburgh, and he began his professional dance training at The University of Colorado-Boulder, where he received a BA double-majoring in Dance and Psychology and went on to attain an MFA in Dance from the University of Michigan. Upon graduation, he has won multiple choreography awards including the Maggie Allesee Choreography award and since has been showing work across the US. Alterio is a member of the Boulder Jazz Dance Company, (formerly Interweave Dance Theatre), the resident company of the Boulder Jazz Dance Workshop as well as Director of a summer dance intensive geared toward the LGBTQIA+ community called Excessive Realness.Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Send us a textOur guest today, is a true triple threat, starring in one of the most popular shows on Broadway at the moment.  We were excited to have John Edwards on the show to discuss auditioning, Broadway, college and how he keeps it fresh.  We hope you enjoy this weeks episode with the incredibly talented, John Edwards.John Edwards: Actor/Singer/Dancer/Songwriter. Currently starring in MJ The Musical (Jackie Jackson/tour singer/James Brown soloist) Previously seen in New York City Center ENCORES production of Jelly's Last Jam, NYC revival of Smokey Joe's Cafe (Chita Award winner, Lucille Lortel nominee). Broadway and 1st National Tour of Jersey Boys (Hal Miller/Barry Belson/others). National/International tour of Hairspray (Seaweed J. Stubbs) and In the Heights at The Kennedy Center (Domingo). And more. AMDA ALUMN CLASS OF 06IG @therealjohnedwardsThank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Send us a textWelcome back Jam Fam!  You are in for a treat today!  In this episode, we speak to Doriana Sanchez, a legend in the dance world.  So many of you have seen her but didn't know her name.  A creative with an incredible back story, a survivor and warrior, a mentor with a heart of gold, we know you will love todays chat with Doriana!DORIANA SANCHEZ is an Emmy Award and two-time American Choreography Award nominated choreographer and director, and a World Choreography Award recipient. Her love of Dance and Movement has allowed her to create in all areas of stage and media.Ryan Seacrest on E News! Has called her “The Dancing Queen”, and Tu Ciudad Magazine named her one of the 25 “Hip Hot Now” Hispanics in arts and entertainment.As a long time collaborator with Pop Icon Cher, Doriana has Created, Directed and Choreographed the superstars extravaganza performances including; Dancing with The Stars, The Voice, Good Morning America, The Late Show with David Letterman and the associated “Dressed To Kill” Tour” which, met with rave reviews. Doriana has also Conceived, Directed and Choreographed Cher at the Colosseum during its three year, 200-plus sold out performances at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.Her work can also be seen in the Love Hurts, Believe and Living Proof tour, which was honored with four Emmy Awards including Outstanding Musical Variety Special. Over three million people saw the show during its 325 performances. It ranks as one of the most successful tours for a female artist, grossing over 200 million dollars. Doriana was also nominated for an Emmy for Best Choreography for the show's HBO special.Doriana's Stage, Circus and Touring credits include, choreographing the world premiere of Frank Loesser's musical Senor Discretion Himself, at Arena Stage in Washington, D.C. for which she received a Helen Hayes Award nomination for Best Choreography, Barry Manilow's Copcabana, at the Prince of Wales Theatre in London, which was nominated for an Olivier Award for Best new Musical, The Night is a Child, at Pasadena Playhouse and Blade To The Heat at the Mark Taper Forum.Her great love of circus arts led Doriana to China where she created The Galaxy Stars Circus featuring over 150 international performers. Other circus credits include Circo Fantastico, the all-Latin circus that Doriana wrote, directed and choreographed, as well as Odyssey, the first circus ever presented on a cruise ship, for Princess Cruises.Additional Directing and choreography credits include, Video Games Live, Jane's Addiction's Jubilee Tour, Perry Farrell's Porno for Pyros Tour, Peter Gabriel's Secret World Tour, Dirty Dancing Concert Tour (2 weeks Sold out shows at Radio City Music Hall. Her productions have been seen in nearly every large scale arena in the US and abroad.She has worked with musical legends such as Latin superstar Shakira, Gladys Knight, Natalie Cole, Frankie Valli, and David Foster musical prodigies, Jackie Evancho and Charice, as well as comedy superstar Ellen DeGeneres.She received a TEA award for outstanding achievement, for Resorts World's Crane Dance, in Singapore Harbor, the largest animatronic water and video spectacular in the world and was director and choreographer for Festive Walk's Lake of Dreams also at Resorts World.Corporate clients include, Redken, Target, Toyota, Mattel and CanonDoriana's television credits include the Grammy Awards, American Music Awards, The Voice, Dancing with the Stars,Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Send us a textSometimes you just have to have a part 2, especially when Michael Taylor is offering his two cents.  Another great episode full of chat, opinions and knowledge from the Jam team and the fun, Michael Taylor!Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Send us a textHot Topics!  One of our favorite segments on Jam with one of our favorite guests, Michael Taylor!  We take topics from social media and give our commentary, opinions and thoughts.  We hope you enjoy this episode with the always funny, Michael Taylor!Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Send us a textJam Fam, you are in for a treat today!  Today's episode is one of living your best life, following your dreams, advocating for yourself and doing things that make you feel good.  We so lucky to have Kimberly Marable with us today, currently starring on Broadway in Chicago!Kimberly Marable has spent over 15 years as a working actor. Her Broadway appearances include CHICAGO (Velma Kelly), THE LION KING (u/s Nala, Shenzi, Sarabi) and SISTER ACT (u/s Deloris van Cartier). She was an original cast member of the TONY and GRAMMY Award winning musical HADESTOWN on Broadway where she understudied Persephone and a Fate.  Her National and International Touring credits include HADESTOWN (Persephone), THE BOOK OF MORMON, SISTER ACT (standby Deloris van Cartier), DREAMGIRLS, HAIRSPRAY, and THE WEDDING SINGER (u/s Linda). Kimberly has performed at regional theaters including The Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis, The Signature in Arlington, VA and Arkansas Repertory Theatre ("The Rep") in Little Rock, AR; and has participated in the pre-Broadway development of HADESTOWN, PAL JOEY with Marin Mazzie & Patina Miller, and THE WANDERER with NKOTB's Joey McIntyre, which made its world premier at Papermill Playhouse. She has appeared on CBS' FBI & BULL, NPR Music's Tiny Desk Concert series, and numerous television specials, including the 85th & 93rd Annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parades and the 73rd Annual TONY Awards. Kimberly is the voice of Lorelai in the Netflix Anime series, CANNON BUSTERS and does promotional voice overs for various tv networks. Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, Kimberly earned a Bachelors of Arts degree in Theater modified with Sociology from Dartmouth College. She was an adjunct professor for the Theatre Program at Drexel University. In 2012, Kimberly co-founded Broadway Serves, an affiliate program of Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, which provides theater professionals with community service opportunities. She serves as the Vice Chair on the Advisory Committee for the Entertainment Community Fund's Looking Ahead program, is on the Entertainment Community Fund's Human Services Committee, and serves on the Board of Trustees for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS.We hope you enjoy today's conversation with the incredibly talented, Kimberly Marable.Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Send us a textNew Year, new ideas, and new inspiration!  We are so lucky to have Dr. Chelsea Peirotti back as a guest with us again. Chelsea brings her usual positivity with some new ideas for dance educators to dig into as we start competition season.You can find Chelsea at: www.chelseapierotti.comInstagram: dr.chelsea.pierottiAnd don't forget to listen to her Passion For Dance podcast!Thank you Chelsea for spending time with us again and offering your knowledge and insight into mental health of the dance industry.Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Send us a textHere we go with another great episode hosted by Michelle and our #1 fan, Matthew Donnell!  Today, Matthew takes control of the episode and puts Michelle in the hot seat.  Learn a little more about Michelle's background, performance experience, teaching tools and a fun fast five!We hope you enjoy this episode and don't forget to like and subscribe!Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Send us a textJoe is in the hot seat this week, as our #1 fan and incredible dance educator, Matthew Donnell, interviews Joe.  Get to know who he is and what he is up to on this weeks episode!Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Send us a textAnd we're back!  Happy 2025 to our Jam Fam.  We hope you had a wonderful holiday season and are ready for another season of great guests, hot topics, and all the shenanigans that Joe and Michelle bring every week.  Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Send us a textWe wanted to take a quick minute to say hello to our listeners and leave you with some information.  We are looking forward to being back with you all soon!If you listened to the episode and want to help out, here is the link:https://gofund.me/99515e37See you soon Jam FamThank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Send us a Text Message.What a great season we had Jam Fam!  Thank you to our amazing guests for lending their time and expertise to us and giving back to the dance community.  We appreciate all of you!Our wrap up includes some shout outs, Hot Topics (of course), and a run down on what is next for JAM.Thank you all for listening, subscribing, commenting and being such a supportive community.  We do this for you and welcome all your feedback.Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Send us a Text Message.Welcome back Jam Fam!  We are excited to finish this season with the wonderful, Chasta Hamilton.  Chasta has so much insight into the world of dance and has recently been named to the Advisory Board of Dance Teacher Magazine!  A great conversation with a great friend, we hope you enjoy this episode with Chasta Hamilton!About Chasta:Orphaned as a child, Chasta found comfort in the creativity, play, and catharsis of the performing arts. This led to a life as an arts entrepreneur where she has developed a niche in: (a) change management, (b) brand strategy and differentiation, and (c) accelerated revenue growth. At her core, Chasta believes that every person has the power to reach their fullest potential and disrupt the status quo in an empowering, inspiring, and lasting way. She is doing this through her business endeavors, writing, and motivational speaking. Chasta is the founder and CEO of Stage Door Dance Productions and the founder and president of the nonprofit Girls Geared for Greatness. You can read more about her journey in her books: Trash the Trophies and Handle the Horrible as well as her latest release, the children's book The Trophy Trap. Stay in touch via her website: www.chastahamilton.com or via Instagram (@chastahamilton). Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Send us a Text Message.Welcome back Jam Fam!  We know you are going to love this episode with the fabulous Caylie Rose Newcom.  Caylie is a wealth of knowledge, positivity, charm and great energy that has made her mark in the NYC dance world.  An educator and a triple threat, she has worn many hats in her career.  Today we talk a bit about what makes her tick, how to be your authentic self in the dance world, and all the other fun things that we get into on the podcast.  We hope you enjoy listening to our latest episode!Caylie Rose Newcom  is a professional performer, associate, and dance teacher in NYC! Favorite NYC credits include: Radio City Music Hall's Christmas Spectacular (Swing, Asst Dance Captain), Noir, a new musical workshop and The Tony Awards 2023 where she performed in the Opening Number. Tours include the 1st National Tour of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and FAME: The Musical. Some regional credits include performing at The MUNY, Paper Mill Playhouse, Casa Manana Theatre, North Carolina Theatre, Weathervane Playhouse, and the Palace Theatre. Caylie has worked in Ensemble, Principal, Dance Captain, Understudy, Swing, Associate Choreographer, and Associate Director positions. She has taught at Marymount Manhattan College and Circle in The Square Theatre School. Caylie currently shares her joy for dance while teaching at AMDA!This episode is proudly sponsored by Thrive Dance Experience.  For more information, go to: https://thrivedanceexperience.com/Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Send us a Text Message.When we started this podcast almost 3 years ago, we never thought we would have a legend like Sheila Barker on our podcast as our very first guest!  Sheila is a giant in the industry, a mentor, a motivator and part of history at Broadway Dance Center in NYC.  We thought that we would drop this episode again, as this came out so long ago, for some of our new listeners, and for some to listen to again.Thank you Sheila Barker for all you do!  You are loved by so many.Jam Fam, enjoy our 1st episode again, with Miss Sheila BarkerThank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Send us a Text Message.Hey Jam Fam, we are back with some Hot Topics straight from dance forums on social media.  We talk compensation for teachers, guest teachers, artists in videos, competition costumes and a few other fun things.  We hope you enjoy this episode!Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Send us a Text Message.Welcome back Jam Fam!  We have a great episode for you featuring Natalie Nostrant and Kelli Guardin-Rooney, Owners and Directors of High Demand Dance Competition.  High Demand believes in the artistry of the dancers and choreographers while expanding the dancers vocabulary and introducing an improv part of their competition (which is our favorite part).  We talk all things comp, levels, costumes, improv and why they started High Demand.  We hope you enjoy this conversation as much as we did.High Demand Dance Competition is the product of two best friends, Natalie Nostrant & Kelli Rooney, who met in college and formed an immediate friendship through their shared passion for dance. They were both once young competitive dancers themselves and after college spent years as instructors and choreographers for competitive dance studios. Their diverse dance backgrounds and strong business and event planning skills led them to create the dance competition of their dreams for the young dancers like they once were. HD Dance is a reflection of their passion and love for dance and they are committed to bringing the dance community high-quality, innovative and inspiring events while providing a positive atmosphere for dancers to grow and learn!  For more information, check out their website: https://www.hddancecompetition.com/This episode is proudly sponsored by Thrive Dance Experience!  For more information, go to: https://thrivedanceexperience.com/Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Send us a Text Message.JAM Fam, welcome back!  Today's episode is a must listen for studio directors and owners.  Our fantastic guest, Laura Ward-Moran, advises and guides us through some scenarios of dance studio, dance teacher and director life.  How to navigate difficult conversations and of course, all things dance.  Laura Ward-Moran is a passionate and experienced individual who has dedicated over 26 years to a career in dance education and business ownership. She has a background in ballet, modern dance, and authentic Pilates and has established multiple successful businesses and dance programs. Laura is the founder of the college preparatory dance program at The John Carroll school, where she guides college-bound dancers. Her diverse experiences and dedication to dance education make her a valuable asset in mentoring and coaching roles for her business, Unparalleled Pursuits.https://unparalleledpursuits.com/We hope you are inspired by todays podcast with Laura Ward-Moran!Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Today we feature a new performing arts program happening in NYC, Flourish!  This program, founded and created by Alan Dornak, helps deliver additional training to individuals in the performing arts.  Gathering some of the finest faculty in voice, acting and dance, Flourish is a one stop shop for aspiring performers.FLOURISH PERFORMING ARTSFlourish Performing Arts is pleased to present an exciting new three-week musical theater training program based in Washington Heights - Upper Manhattan. Flourish prioritizes the individual needs of both the aspiring professional and the established performer seeking to further develop their craft.  We hope you enjoy this episode of Jam with Alan Dornak.Flourish is not a traditional “school” that emphasizes curriculum and grades, but rather a community of passionate performers, teachers, and industry professionals working together to uncover and investigate hidden potential, expand and polish established attributes, and help craft a path to success. This summer is a launching point for future workshops, master classes and more extended curricular programs.Flourish Summer 2024 offers personalized attention focusing on, but not limited to, the three main disciplines of musical theater: Singing, Acting, and Dance. With a set weekly schedule that includes Individual Lessons, Coachings, Group Classes and Master Classes, participants will be encouraged to develop and deepen their personalized understanding of the performing craft. These three weeks will also offer professional development opportunities such as Audition Training, Resumé and Website Instruction, as well as Workshops with guest industry professionals.There is still time to register for this season.  For more information go to:https://www.flourishperformingarts.com/This episode proudly sponsored by Thrive Dance Experience.  For more information go to: https://thrivedanceexperience.com/Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

We are back Jam Fam, with our Midseason Chat!  We love just chatting with one another all things dance, and our Hot Topics have been a hit with our listeners.  This episode will not disappoint.  Talking summer dance, dance intensives, guest teachers and a few other fun things, we hope you enjoy our episode made just for you!Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Welcome back Jam Fam!  We are so excited to share this fun episode with you featuring Connor Schwantes!  Connor recently worked on the Tony nominated show, Days of Wine and Roses and is an incredible dance educator and choreographer.  We dive into his early life in dance, football, and growing up with parents in the industry.  We hope you enjoy our conversation with Connor!Connor Schwantes is a teacher, associate, and choreographer in theatre and JAZZ. Most recently acting as the Associate Choreographer on Days of Wine and Roses with Kelli O'Hara and Brian d'Arcy James on Broadway. Connor has performed all over the USA and internationally, from cruise ships to NYC. Some favorites include American Dance Spectacular, Trip of Love, When Change Comes, Sophisticated Ladies, SNL, PBS, and Jimmy Fallon Late Night. After performing for over a decade, Connor has moved to making shows and building new pieces of art under Karla Puno Garcia. Some recent standouts are The Tony Awards 2023, Noir, Other World, and (upcoming) Ask for the Moon. Connor specializes in partnering, communicating dance to those who might call themselves singers, and making that "good jazzy" vibe in the room. This episode is proudly sponsored by Thrive Dance Experience.  For more information, go to:  https://thrivedanceexperience.com/Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Welcome back Jam Fam!  Today we talk with the fantastic Jenny Oehlwein, on stepping outside your comfort zone, fighting imposter syndrome, finding your place in the dance community, and of course, dance competitions!  Jenny has a vast resume and is coming on strong in the Latin Jazz genre.  Thank you Jenny for sharing your time with us.  Jam Fam, we hope you enjoy another great episode featuring Jenny Oehlwein!Jenny grew up dancing in the competitive dance world and ballroom circuit. She graduated from Point Park University with a BA in Dance and a minor in Musical Theatre. She has made her career of performing, choreographing, directing, and judging across the globe. During college she had the privilege of training with Hubbard Street and River North for their company summer intensives. Upon graduating she took to the seas with Royal Carribean, singing and dancing. She continued her ballroom training there in shows choreographed by Louis Van Amstel, dancing with partners from all over the world. Upon moving to NYC a new opportunity fell into her lap working as a Rehearsal Director for a world-renowned entertainment company. Directing and installing casts for cruise-ships, theme-parks, industrial gigs, and occasionally assisting the casting team on their auditions. Some of Jenny's musical credits include- West Side Story, Legally Blonde, The Producers, The Bodyguard, the national tour of Elf, and Broadway Bares. Most recently Jenny was featured in Disney's 50th anniversary celebration concert as well as a Coca-Cola commercial. Additional commercial/tv credits include- Succession, Billions, Malouf, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, and Adventureland.As an educator she is very passionate about sharing her love of dance and helping people be their truest self in the room. She teaches on the convention level for Encore Extreme and Dinamic Dancers Inc. Jenny is a regional director for the competition Encore DCS and a proud judge on the IDA panel. She travels and teaches all over the country, inspiring the next generation of dancers. She considers herself lucky to have made a career out of her passion and to be able to help others find theirs.Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Today we take a moment to highlight another great program in higher education, Salve Regina University.  We were lucky enough to speak with Department Chair and Dance Program Coordinator, Lindsay Guarino, about this unique program.  Lindsay also has had a hand in changing the program and has been involved in some incredible projects.  Located in Rhode Island, this program has specialty focuses as well as flexibility.    We hope you enjoy our chat today with Lindsay Guarino.Program overview:At Salve Regina University, the bachelor's degree in dance offers a transformative education through the study of dance in a liberal arts environment.  Through the curriculum, students engage in critical dialogue, physical practice and creative production as they study dance history, theory, technique, performance, composition and pedagogy.  Students develop their artistic voices across a range of styles, including jazz, contemporary, tap, hip hop and ballet.  The curriculum emphasizes jazz studies with courses designed to honor, investigate and practice jazz as a historically Black American art form best understood through awareness of one's own identity and culture.  Community is at the heart of Salve Regina's dance program with an environment that encourages and supports individuality, personal creativity, dynamic exchanges of energy, risk-taking and resilience - all enduring values within the jazz aesthetic.About Lindsay:Lindsay Guarino is a jazz dance artist, educator and scholar.  As associate professor and department chair of Music, Theatre and Dance at Salve Regina University in Newport, RI she has grown the dance program from a minor to a B.A. focused in jazz and justice.  As an educator and a leader, Lindsay prioritizes community at the heart of her practice and seeks to cultivate spaces where individuality is celebrated and recognized as vital to personal and collective growth.  Lindsay's commitment to revealing and preserving jazz dance in connection to its roots led her to co-edit Jazz Dance: A History of the Roots and Branches (University Press of Florida, 2014), and the award winning text Rooted Jazz Dance: Africanist Aesthetics and Equity in the Twenty-First Century (UPF, 2022).  Through the National Dance Education Organization, Lindsay developed and planned two special topics jazz dance conferences (2016 & 2019) and developed and taught Jazz Dance Theory and Practice for their Online Professional Development Institute.  She appears in and consulted on the documentary Uprooted: The Journey of Jazz Dance (2020), available on HBO Max.Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Welcome back Jam Fam!  Today, we have a great conversation with Patrick Cook discussing the commercial dance scene,  touring with some of the biggest artists in the world and teaching.  Patrick brings to us a conversation that will especially those interested in performing in the commercial world.  Some credits include:Performance with Renowned Artists:  Toured with Taylor Swift and Paula Abdul, dancing alongside and for esteemed artists such as Justin Bieber, Selena Gomez, Katy Perry, BTS, and Harry Styles. Film and Television Experience:  Performed in films such as "La La Land," "VICE," and "Spirited." Additionally, appeared on popular shows like "Two and a Half Men"  We hope you enjoy our episode with our friend, Patrick CookThank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Kicking off season 9 with a bang, we are excited to bring you this episode featuring creatives Hannah and Alex Isenberg!  We highlight their three day intensive, Bridge The Gap, and discuss the industry and how to navigate the ins and outs of this ever changing landscape.  We hope you enjoy our conversation with Hannah and Alex.Meeting as professional dancers in Los Angeles, Alex and Hannah joined forces to bring immersive classes, workshops and choreography to pre-professional and professional students across North America. With their 40+ years of combined experiences covering all avenues of the industry, Alex + Hannah's classes are designed to focus on the fundamentals of the discipline, as well as developing important performance techniques that apply both in and out of the classroom. They are both award-winning competitive dance choreographers, convention faculty members, adjudicators and in-studio recreational and competitive coaches. Alex and Hannah are currently choreographing for the 2024 Women of Inspiration Awards in Toronto this April. Outside of the dance world, Alex and Hannah make up the alt-pop music duo the Savage Patch Kidds, both working as writers and creative directors for their own work. They have been featured in Mundane Magazine, Canadian Musician Magazine and performed with the John Lennon Tour Bus, winning Love Song of the Year in 2021. They are excited to continue spreading the joy of genuine performance art across the nation this year and look forward to the opportunities that come their way!For more information on the Bridge The Gap Program, check out their website:https://www.isenbergent.com/Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Jam Fam, hard to believe we have completed another season!  Thank you to all that listen and follow! Our Season 8 wrap up is a conversation with Joe and Michelle talking about guest teachers for your studio, non compete contracts, levels at competition and a huge thank you to our season 8 guests.  You don't want to miss this one!Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

And she's back!  We were so happy to have Alicia back on the show, talking about Bold Dance Project,  the dance world, dance competitions  and all things dance.  Alicia brings up some great things in this episode and we know you will enjoy every moment!Alicia Pociask is a Brooklyn based choreographer, director and educator. She attended Point Park University, receiving a Bachelor's Degree in Dance and Minor in Theater Arts. Alicia's worked at theme parks and theaters around the country, performed in industrials for the Pittsburgh Steelers, and was a video tracked dancer for Pepsi. She spent her last performance years as a dancer with Holland America Cruise Line.Alicia spent 8 years as a resident show supervisor, choreographer, and director for the Emmy Award winning production company, RWS Entertainment Group where she choreographed five mainstage production shows for Holland America Cruise Line, was an associate choreographer for STEP ONE Dance Company, and directed and choreographed three mainstage shows for Azamara Club Cruises. Alicia had the honor of assisting Al Blackstone (SYTYCD) for the workshop of Crazy in Love, an original short musical written by Kooman and Dimond. Most recently Alicia choreographed six shows for Carowinds in Charlotte, NC and travels around the country as an audition instructor for Creative Studios by Norwegian Cruise Line.Alicia is extremely passionate and invested in the education of young performers. She travels around the world as a guest teacher, choreographer and judge and is the Owner of NYC based company bold dance project.instagram: @aliciarose33website: aliciapociask.comThank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Welcome back Jam Fam!  We are so excited to share our episode featuring Miranda Spada with you,  Another great conversation about dance, a dance teachers life and what mentoring means to her and our young dancers.  Miranda shares some of her experiences in the dance world and we can't wait for you to listen today!Miranda Spada received her Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Dance from the University at Buffalo under the direction of Tom Ralabate. There she was a member of the prestigious Zodiaque Dance Company where she was able to work with numerous choreographers. She was honored with being named Director of Dancers Workshop for two years. After graduation, Miranda stayed in the Buffalo area where teaching opportunities opened and she found her passion. She is currently the Competition Director at Tonawanda Dance Arts and also directs and runs her own Mentorship Program called L.E.A.D. This program facilitates the growth of individuals who are looking to enhance their training and work towards pursuing a possible career in dance. She enjoys giving her students opportunities in and out of New York that enhance their dance journeys. She is involved with the More Than Just Great Dancing Organization under Misty Lown and is also certified in Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT) and Modules 1 and 2 of Alixa Flexibility. Miranda also does guest teaching and choreography. Training under Larraine Susa, she continues to go back to her roots in PA to provide dance education. As Pennsylvania's Outstanding Young Woman for 2008, she was provided many opportunities to share her love of dance. Miranda is an adjudicator with many organizations within the Industry including IMPACT Dance Adjudicators, Eleve Dance Competition where she also helps run the Ambassador Program, Beyond The Stars, Breakout, AMP, and Guidance Dance Experience. She loves being able to pass on her education and passion to the next generation. Our episode today is proudly sponsored by Thrive Dance Experience!  For more information, go to: https://thrivedanceexperience.com/Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

We talk all things dance with Miss Kosha!  Kosha is a dance educator, mentor and entrepreneur, leading the way in the dance industry in the Pittsburgh area.  We talk about working with young dancers, starting a business and creating curriculums and programs that work for YOUR studio.  We hope you enjoy this fun episode with Kosha!As the founder of Dance Unleashed, Kosha brings over 16 years of experience as a studio owner,collaborating with industry peers and teachers.Acknowledged as a top leader, her work extends beyond teaching dance, encompassing mentorship and strategic partnerships within the dance community. Emphasizing the significance of class management and staff training,  Kosha has cultivated a culture that values professionalism, creativity, and effective leadership. Her dedication extends to empowering individuals through dance, emphasizing the transformative power of movement and self-expression.  Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Angela has amassed a following on her Instagram page @fulltimedanceteacher.  That is how we found her!  We have used her quotes and nuggets of advice and finally said, we need her on the show!We had a fantastic talk with Angela about teaching, mentoring, and all things dance of course.Angela is a dance artist, choreographer, teacher and content creator based in Providence, RI. After training at the Dancing Arts Center in Holliston, MA, she received her Bachelor of Arts in Dance from Roger Williams University, where she was the recipient of the Kelli Wicke Davis Outstanding Achievement in Dance Award. Upon graduating, Angela was a 2017 Young Artist in Residence at Bearnstow, Maine, and then went on to perform as a freelance artist while teaching dance and fitness classes. Angela has danced for Natalie Johnson Dance in Cambridge, MA, and co-founded ProviDANCE Project, a contemporary dance collaborative with her artistic partner, Ellen Oliver. Angela is currently a company member at Providence Ballet Theatre, and also teaches dance throughout Rhode Island and Massachusetts. When not dancing and teaching, Angela is busy creating online resources for dance teachers through her Instagram page, @fulltimedanceteacher. This episode is proudly sponsored by the  LEAP Program.  For more information, go to:https://www.stmarys-ca.edu/academics/liberal-arts/leapThank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

JAM Fam, we are so excited to share with you this wonderful program in Alabama with our new friend, Aidan Nettles.  Finding the right college, university or conservatory program can be a challenge, are we are happy to be shining the spotlight on some wonderful programs around the country.The University of Alabama offers a Bachelor of Arts Degree program in dance and a Master of Fine Arts degree program in dance. Students in our program have the opportunity to train in a wide range of virtuosic techniques including ballet, modern/contemporary, and jazz. Our students are encouraged to explore and develop skills as choreographers and scholars in addition to their movement-based practices. Additionally, we offer courses in dance history, anatomy/kinesiology for dance, choreography, lighting and sound, dance and the camera, pedagogy, and special topics. Dancers are able to audition for our pre-professional dance company, Alabama Repertory Dance Theatre, which produces 2 concerts each academic year. The Emerging Choreographers' Showcase also provides additional opportunities for students to present choreography or perform in our student showcase. Check out this video featuring two of our current students in the BA dance program to learn more about UA Dance: https://youtu.be/jMr0U29r63gFor more information on the Dance Program at The University of Alabama, please visit Dance.ua.edu. This episode is proudly sponsored by Thrive Dance Experience.  For more information go to: https://thrivedanceexperience.com/Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Welcome back Jam Fam!  This week we have an wonderful conversation with Lee Daniel, a multi hyphenate with an incredible background.  We talk all things dance, plus a little more!  We hope you enjoy this weeks episode.Lee Daniel is a Creative Director, Choreographer and Educator located in Los Angeles. He has 15+ years of professional experience in TV, film, tours and international instruction with some of the most accomplished names in music. Lee's credits include:Ariana Grande, Jason Derulo, Jennifer Lopez, Carrie Underwood, Usher, Selena Gomez, Queen Latifah, "Queen of K-pop" BoA, Asian Superstar Amei, Jordin Sparks, and Japanese pop icon Jin Akanishi to name just a few. Most recently he was a featured movement artist on the hit Netflix Show, Soundtrack. No stranger to stage or screen, Lee is often sought for his creative aesthetic and unique movement vocabulary. TV credits include:Ellen, Good Morning America, Billboard Music Awards, American Music Awards, David Letterman, American Idol and The Voice amongst others.   While being Co-Choreographer for KidZBop, Lee has helped the brand build arena-filling numbers across three successful tours and a stream of music videos that have been visually and virally successful!Most recently, he was an assistant choreographer on Season 2 of the eclectic fan-favorite, The Masked Singer!An elite graduate of the Monsters of Hip Hop brand, Lee transformed his training into opportunities that established him as one of the most sought-out, consistent and technically astute educators in Los Angeles. He is a featured instructor at TMIllyTV, one of the top institutes for working dance professionals globally. In addition to choreographing and teaching across the world, he is a select faculty member for the Monsters of HipHop A-List Convention. This convention is attended by thousands of international professionals monthly, each seeking the highest level of training for prospective careers in dance. Powerful grooves and feel-good fluidity are a few ways to describe Lee's style. He challenges movers to translate dynamic rhythms into seamless performance. He constantly references his HipHop, Jazz-Funk, House, and Commercial dance background -- offering diversity and a myriad of foundations.As an Educator:Lee aims for you to leave the classroom with a new perspective and a strong connection to your own unique artistic value!As a Creative Director:Lee offers a 360-degree creative outlook on any project. Whether relaying creative messages for brands using dance; filling an arena with high energy for artists; or troubleshooting technical issues to get the best looking visual, Lee is a force that embodies artistic integrity, collaboration and an ability to get the job done while making it all fun! This weeks episode is proudly sponsored by the LEAP program.  For more information visit:https://www.stmarys-ca.edu/academics/liberal-arts/leapThank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

And she's BACK!  We are so excited for the return of the one and only, Rachelle Rak.  In this episode we talk about her new venture in theater, dance conventions, her fabulous song and all things Sass!  Thank you for making time for us Rachelle and we couldn't be happier for you!Jam Fam, we hope you enjoy our follow up episode with Broadway veteran, Rachelle Rak!This episode is proudly sponsored by The Leap Program.  For more information go to:https://www.stmarys-ca.edu/academics/liberal-arts/leapThank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Jam Fam, today we celebrate 100 episodes because of you!  Thank you to listening, liking, subscribing and following.  We do this for our listeners and we are so happy you are a part of our community.A huge shout out to all of the guest that have given their time and knowledge to our podcast.  It fills our cup to have these conversations and we feel very lucky to know each of you.  Thank you for all you do in the dance world.When we started this podcast we had no clue where it was going to go.  We are so proud of what we have been able to offer our listeners and look forward to doing 100 more.  Enjoy Episode 100 with Joe and Michelle!Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Today's episode we Spotlight the LEAP Program!  We loved our conversation with Andrew Pearson, Assistant Director of LEAP, and we hope you enjoy this informative conversation about programs in dance.The LEAP (Liberal Education for Arts Professionals) Program is a Bachelor's in Performing Arts online degree completion program uniquely designed for current and former professional dancers. LEAP provides remote and affordable higher education of exceptional quality with a part-time, low-impact class schedule.For more information on LEAP, you can go to:https://www.stmarys-ca.edu/academics/liberal-arts/leap/degree-completion-program-for-dancersThis episode is proudly sponsored by Thrive Dance Experiencehttps://thrivedanceexperience.com/Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

A wonderful and insightful conversation with the owners of Dance Ink!  Lindsey and Stephanie created a non profit called Ink Cares,  and are doing wonderful work in the community.   Studio owners, we think you are going to love this episode!MISSION:At Ink Cares, our mission is to foster a community where movement and art transcend barriers and inspire boundless possibilities. We believe in the transformative power of the performing arts, not merely as art forms, but as forces capable of unlocking creativity, confidence, empathy and resilience.Our foundation is rooted in the profound belief that the arts possess an unparalleled capacity to enrich lives, foster thriving communities, enhance academic absorption, and promote the vitality of neighborhoods. Our commitment extends beyond the building walls, reaching to touch the hearts and lives of others where the tapestry of our shared humanity is woven with the vibrant colors of artistic expression.At Ink Cares, we believe in the ink that writes the stories of beauty, resilience, equality, and unity.VISION:Through the four pillars of Ink Cares, we strive to leave a positive mark on the lives of those of which we are fortunate enough to cross paths.Through Dance Ink and Ink University, we teach our students to have an openness to critical thinking and an exchange of ideas, to respect diversity through thought and being, and to have a commitment to excellence through professionalism, athleticism, hard work and self-discipline.  We teach mindfulness and wellbeing, as well as use multimedia and technology, to ensure our students have a chance of great success in this ever-changing world.  Through our professional company (Ink Productions), community outreach, and our associates, we practice all of what we preach to produce world class performances, develop the skills and footprints of our associates, and be increasingly involved in providing solutions and impact for the needs of our surrounding communities.Jam Fam, we hope you enjoy this wonderful episode with Dance Ink!This episode is proudly sponsored by The Leap Program.  For more information go to:https://www.stmarys-ca.edu/academics/liberal-arts/leapThank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

JAM Fam you are in for a treat!  We were lucky enough to catch up with Jena VanElslander before she started as the associate choreographer for the revival of the Broadway show, Cabaret!  Jena has been gracing Broadway stages for years and is making her debut on the artistic side with Cabaret.You may have seen Jena in Jagged Little Pill,  Life of Pi or King Kong.  Regionally she has performed in multiple shows including A Chorus Line, Footloose and Cats.  You have danced with her on the many convention circuits she teaches for, or have been lucky enough to be her student at AMDA where she teaches jazz, modern, contemporary, ballet, gymnastics and strength and conditioning.Our talk with Jena was full of fun stories and look at a dancers life now in NY.  We hope you enjoy our episode with the incredible Jena VanElslander.Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

And we are back with a great season and our usual kickoff episode talking all things dance.  Fun guests with lots to share with all of you this season.Jam Fam, thanks for listening to us for 7 seasons and trusting us.  We do this for you and couldn't be happier chatting all things dance.Enjoy our newest episode and don't forget to like and subscribe!Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Wrapping up the season with a wonderful talk with the multitalented, Rashaan James! In this episode with talk tap, Equity, Miss America and so much more.  A fun way to wrap up our season, we hope you enjoy our chat with Rashaan James!Rashaan James II went to the University of Buffalo for a BFA in Musical Theatre and a BA in dance. He's performed all over the world in productions like Crazy for You at Lincoln Center, the Dirty Dancing U.S. tour, the West Side Story international tour, and the South Pacific 1st National Tour. He's currently on faculty at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA), Broadway Dance Center and Steps on Broadway in NYC. He is an elected member of the National Council for Actors' Equity AssociationThank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

Another fantastic episode with a lovely guest!  Holly Gannett has been working in the dance industry for years as a performer, educator and choreographer.  Her mother owned a dance studio in Maine, which she grew up dancing at and then later became a teacher at the studio.  We discuss being a studio "baby", teaching with your parent, working in the industry and so much more.  We hope you enjoy this weeks episode with Holly Gannett!Holly Gannett is a 1999 graduate of the State University of New York at Buffalo with a B.F.A. in Dance. She is Vice President of the Maine Dance Teachers Club.  She is the former Dance Director at Maine Arts Academy of 5 years, where she created the dance curriculum for the school, Maine's first performing arts high school. Holly travels as a convention teacher and competition judge and continually holds master classes across the country. She has judged & taught for a variety of Competitions & Conventions over the past 16 years including Impact Dance Adjudicators, Dancers Inc., Headliners, and Elite Performance Challenge/Excel in Motion.  She has been teaching for over thirty years at Kennebec Dance Centre in Augusta where she grew up as a “studio baby”. Holly has been a guest instructor/adjunct faculty at several Maine Colleges including Colby, Thomas, & University of Maine at Augusta in addition to other dance schools in Maine, New Hampshire, New York, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Vermont, Indiana, and Wisconsin. In addition to dance education, she works in her community district schools as an ed tech in Physical Education & library.  She is the former Fitness Program Supervisor of 12 years at the Eastside Wellness Center in Augusta for MaineGeneral Medical Center as a personal trainer and instructor of Zumba, Cardio Kickboxing, and Pilates. Holly began her dance training at Kennebec Dance Centre in Maine and with Andrei Bossov of the Kirov Ballet. Mr. Tom Ralabate was able to recruit Holly to UB (State University of New York at Buffalo) where she majored in dance. Holly was offered a job performing with Busch Gardens while attending college, which she declined in order to finish her schooling. Holly was employed at the Central Wisconsin School of Ballet where she was hired to expand and develop the professional ballet school's jazz, tap, and musical theatre programs. While under contract in Wisconsin, she was also offered a job performing for Sesame Street Live on their European tour as well as a scholarship to work study with Gus Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago.  Holly's Musical Theatre performance and choreography credits include the roles of: Dance Captain for the US premier of Fame Forever, Carmen Diaz in Fame, Ariel Moore in Footloose, Mersister inThe Little Mermaid, Marge inSuds, June (Squish) in Chicago,Adelaide in Guys & Dolls, as well as dancing ensemble roles in Cabaret, Oklahoma,Little Shop of Horrors, West Side Story, Man of La Mancha, Working, and Mrs. Greer inAnnie. Holly danced in a music video that was seen on MTV & VH-1 by artist Thomas John Veilleux called “A New Generation”.  While in WI, Holly choreographed forThe Carnival of the Animals  which was narrated by actor Tony Randall.Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com

This week, Joe and Michelle turn to the internet to answer and give their opinions on hot topics shared.  Reminder, these are just opinions!  We would love to hear from you Jam Fam!  What would you like us to talk about?  What topics are important to you?  Where do you want us to weigh in?We hope you enjoy our conversation with Joe and Michelle.Thank you for listening Jam Fam! Make sure you follow us across social media and don't forget to like and subscribe anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts!Facebook: JAM Joe and Michelle's Dance PodcastInstagram: jam_dance_podcastTwitter: @jamdancepodcastEmail: jamdancepodcast@gmail.com