The Dance Podcast

It has been another incredible season! In this episode, Lauren shares the words she needs to hear, a takeaway from 2020, and true facts about rest, recovery, high performance and pivots.    Lauren Ritchie Mental Performance and Mindset Educator, MEd, BA, ESFCC.   As a human, you can train three things: your mind, your body, and your craft. Lauren Ritchie has been studying, researching, and educating dancers and teachers on the physical, emotional and mental intricacies of dance. Recognizing the lack of mental skills training in dance, Lauren has created programs and exercises dedicated to educating and empowering both dancers’ and educators’ mental health and mindset to optimize physical and artistic training. From her MEd in Coaching Studies to a BA in Professional Communications, to multiple Yoga certifications and an accredited Art & Science of Coaching Certification, Lauren has a unique blend of education and resources that offer a holistic training approach for dancers.   An established educator, facilitator and speaker, Lauren has delivered workshops to prestigious schools and programs like Harbour Dance Centre, the Alberta Ballet School, the Dancer Transition Resource Centre, Capilano University and The Bridge Program with The Protege Movement. She is the co-founder of the Dance Teacher reTREAT, the creator of Mental Skills Training Teacher Training program and has been a keynote speaker for the Women In Sport Speaker Series, Dance Studio Owners Association, House of Jazz (London), and the Dance Teacher Expo.   Lauren has firsthand knowledge of the attributes required to achieve and sustain peak performance. She was a highly competitive and decorated dancer having classically trained in ballet, jazz, tap and lyrical. After completing her A.R.A.D, Lauren knew she “wanted to dance” but had little guidance and awareness of the true process of transitioning into a professional dance career. This is why Lauren has created and hosts The Dance Podcast; an invaluable resource dedicated to inspire and educate dancers, teachers, and parents through candid conversations with industry professionals.    Lauren’s engaging and encouraging teaching style has inspired dance teachers and students across the country to be their best – mind, body, and craft.

Julie McDonald is co-owner of McDonald Selznick Associates (MSA). She is the pioneer in the field of dance and choreography representation, having formed the first talent agency in 1985 devoted exclusively to dance. While breaking ground by representing her clients across all mediums of entertainment, she became an advocate for better terms and working conditions for dancers and choreographers and devoted herself to raising the visibility of the art and craft of commercial dance and especially choreography. In 2000 she and Tony Selznick formed McDonald Selznick Associates. (MSA). Their clients represent a who’s who in the world of dance and have been nominated for or have won numerous Emmy, Tony, and MTV awards. MSA clients have directed and/or choreographed Las Vegas spectacles, Broadway productions, television prime time dramas and sitcoms, awards shows including the Emmys, Grammys, and Oscars, and numerous films spanning the past three decades. Ms. McDonald co-created the American Choreography Awards (1994-2004), an event honoring choreography achievement in media. She was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Choreographers Carnival and Dance under the Stars Choreography Festival for pioneering the representation of dancers and choreographers. She is on the Board of American Dance Movement a funding organization that builds healthy communities by expanding access to dance and movement. She is also on the Boards of Center Dance Association at the Music Center, and Dance Magazine.

Erin is an online business coach for dance educators and host of the Dance Boss Podcast. She is a Jersey girl all the way, graduated from Montclair State University with a B.F.A. in Dance and received her Masters in Dance Education from New York University. Erin helps dance educators niche down, build an online business, and bring in additional revenue for them and their families. Erin began her coaching journey as a dance education coach, providing resources and training to help dance educators run more successful classrooms. Now Erin helps her fellow dance educators pursue their dreams and start an online business that impacts the masses.  To learn more about Erin visit erindpride.com, and you can hang out with Erin on Instagram and Facebook.

Matt Cady is an extremely creative, versatile, and dynamic choreographer and artistic instigator. Madonna said of his movement: “It’s pristine.. wonderful staging.” Adi Salant, Co-Artistic Director of Batsheva Dance Company, remarked: “His movement is very smart.” An young introverted Matt started expressing himself in Sign Language freshman year of high school, which blossomed his interest in theater and ultimately modern dance. In college, Matt double majored in Deaf Studies and Dance, dropping out after two years to pursue an apprenticeship at Millennium Dance Complex, needing to enrich himself in the ever changing culture of the commercial LA dance scene. After being offered his own class at Debbie Reynolds Dance Studio, Matt’s professional choreographic career took off with the success of his company Fanny Pak on MTV’s America’s Best Dance Crew. This is where he met supervising choreographers Tabitha and Napoleon Dumo, whom gave him his first taste at choreographing for a touring show with ABDC Live. Matt went on to contribute choreography under Chonique Sneed and Lisette Bustamante for Ricky Martin’s World Tour and Britney Spears’ Femme Fatal Tour, which is where he first met tour director Jamie King, whom he would work under years later on Madonna’s tours. Meanwhile, Fanny Pak’s success catapulted being the only dance company to ever win a MTV Video Music Award. They were enlisted for several music videos, Yelle’s “Que Vuex Tu/Safari Disco Club,” Lil Mama’s “Truly In Love,” Patrica Kazadi’s “Go Crazy,” and soulful icon Toni Braxton’s “You Make My Heart.” The movie Honey 2 was Fanny Pak’s cinematic debut, directed by Billy Woodruff. Off screen, Fanny Pak was commissioned for corporate events and collaborations with Canon Electronics, toy makers Hasbro, TeenVogue, MetroPark Clothing, and the hugely popular dairy company, WhiteWave. Continuing in the cinematic world, Pepsi sponsored a short film through USC which Matt choreographed called “Beth Hooper and the Super Awesome Dance Battle.” Matt’s most favorite of his collaborations are with colleague Megan Lawson, whose initial teamwork was scoped by Madonna herself off of a youtube video. Together, they choreographed multiple numbers for her most recent tours MDNA and Rebel Heart, including the tension filled blood bath Gangbang, and “..broadway worthy..” opening number Iconic. Most recently Matt and Meg were commissioned to create dance works for Ariana Grande’s Dangerous Woman Tour, Ricky Martin’s All In Vegas Residency, brotherly duo Mak + Val’s (from Dancing With the Stars) touring show Our Way, and Katy Perry’s “Bon Appetite” music video. Matt’s ability to materialize an intention and translate his movement across such a spectrum has made him a sought after collaborator and dance instructor, having worked on several American and international dance conventions as well as in studio workshops.

Rosalynn Miller graduated from Point Park University, Conservatory of Performing Arts, with two dance degrees in 2008.  With a duel concentration in jazz dance and dance pedagogy (the art of teaching dance), Rosalynn, affectionately referred to as Roz by her students and peers, quickly landed teaching jobs at various prestigious dance establishments in the Pittsburgh area.  While in college she was Vice President to the student hip hop dance group “Impulse”, first Hispanic President to the United Student Government at Point Park and maintained an apprenticeship through the COPA department all four years of her education.  She fulfilled her apprenticeship working as a hip hop teacher for an after school dance program at McKees Rocks Middle School. In an effort to continue her dance education, Roz attends an array of dance teacher conventions, seminars, workshops and classes to better serve her students and help strengthen the local dance community. The Dance Teacher Summit in New York, More Than Just Great Dancing with Misty Lown and Dance Masters of Pennsylvania are just some of the dance teacher functions she regularly attends throughout the year. Roz is the owner and artistic dance director of Synergy Performing Arts Academy located in Canonsburg, Pa. Her students perform in local parades and community charity events.  The Synergy Dance Company trains and competes at a competitive level. Roz’s choreography has received recognition at both regional and national levels and has received multiple award winning titles. Synergy just celebrated their 10th year anniversary.   Outside of teaching, Roz judges for local dance competitions and talent shows.  She has judged for Showbiz National Talent Competition and On Stage America dance competition. She is proud to be one of the founding 15 members of More Than Just Great Dancing, “MTJGD”, with Misty Lown, the PA Charter member of MTJGD, and a MTJGD certified Coach .  In 2014 Roz was accepted into Dance Masters of America (Pa chapter 10), Dance Educators of America (Pittsburgh chapter) in 2015, and in 2019 she was awarded “Dance Educator of the Year” by GROOVE dance competition at their Myrtle Beach Nationals.  In July of 2019 she was honored to be on the faculty and present business seminars at the NYC Dance Teacher Summit.  In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and playing with her son, a cancer survivor, Cruz!  

Known as one of “Tap’s Leading Ladies” and cover girl for Dance Spirit magazine’s Tap issue, Maud Arnold is a member of Syncopated Ladies and performed in their sold-out full-length concerts in Los Angeles, NYC, DC, and Dubai.    We dive deep into rejection and the mental skills needed for a long, healthy dance career. We pick apart topics like success, hustle and the impact of generosity and service. Maud tells us about the phone call that cleared her schedule and how she prioritizes sharing happiness - especially through her instagram show - Maudcast.    Maud has appeared on ABC's Good Morning America and at Essence Fest in New Orleans after their video covering Beyoncé’s Formation, went viral. Beyoncé shared the video on all of her social media and then hired the Syncopated Ladies to perform at her Ivy Park active wear clothing line launch at TopShop, London.    Maud has quickly become a sought after teacher, judge and performer worldwide. Mentored and trained by Debbie Allen, Maud has taught at Debbie Allen Dance Academy in Los Angeles and Allen’s Dance Institute in Texas. Further to teaching in the USA, Maud has taught tap dancing and Afro-Funk in Dubai, Brazil, Japan, Spain, United Kingdom, Croatia, Ukraine and Russia.   Maud’s Television Credits Include: BET Experience: 106 and Park, The Late Late Show With James Corden, HBO’s Boardwalk Empire, Switched at Birth, Secret Talents of the Stars as a featured dancer with Mya, The Today Show and Syncopated Ladies winning Season 11 of FOX’s So You Think You Can Dance: Dance Crew Battle. Maud can be seen in national commercials and print ads for Toyota, GAP and CANTU and has worked with Beyoncé on several commercials and music videos.    Maud is the co-director and producer of the critically acclaimed DC Tap Festival, pioneering new experiences for dancers and artists worldwide and with her sister Chloé Arnold they were recognized by the US House of Representatives as arts preservers and ambassadors.   Maud is also a female entrepreneur that holds a degree from Columbia University. Further to teaching, she oversees Chloe and Maud Productions and their many entities including their clothing lines: I LOVE TAP and UniLove as well as their tap dance workshops and after school programs.   Maud exudes her passion for tap dancing with her high energy, fun and action-packed dancing.

Lucie is a Chartered Psychologist and has published in peer reviewed articles, spoken at international conferences and worked with leading dance schools and companies across the world. After tears to both of Lucie’s hips ended her dreams of a professional dance career, she redirected her curiosity and creativity towards a BSc Psychology from the University of Surrey. While there, Lucie quickly developed a new goal; to use her understanding of the science of behaviour to help dancers to navigate some of the challenges she herself had faced. After a year working in the neuroscience of dance, Lucie completed her Master’s and PhD in Dance Science at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance. During this time, she lectured in psychology and research methods at a number of Higher Education institutions throughout the UK. Now a Chartered Psychologist (British Psychological Society) and Senior Lecturer in Psychology at the University of Chichester,  Lucie continues to research the psychology of dance and leads the Wellbeing and Creativity in Performance Lab within the Institute of Education, Health and Social Sciences. Lucie researches the psychosocial underpinnings of optimal performance, including the training environment and significant individuals (such as the teachers/parents) in nurturing healthy dance engagement. Some of her recent research focusses on creativity in the life of a dancer, understanding what it means to achieve not only technical excellence in dance but also to flourish creatively.  Since 2016 Lucie has been listed by One Dance UK, the UK’s body for dance, as a recommended Healthier Dancer Speaker, and has since worked freelance within world-leading dance institutions. Lucie uses her expertise gained as an academic researcher to develop evidence-based psychoeducational workshops and consultancy for performing artists.

This one will leave you wanting more! Dana Wilson is a bright and vivacious content creator, choreographer, and performer. She illuminates everything she crosses from the worlds biggest stages to smallest cell phone screens. She may be best known for performing along side Justin Timberlake (on three world tours and at last year’s Super Bowl Halftime Show), Dana’s feature in Dance Magazine declares her “Anything But A Backup Dancer”. Dana shares her expectations after high school, Justin TImberlake Tour experiences, relationship with her body and the stories around navigating “cool” and “sexy” in LA.  She has created an incredible podcast, Words That Move Me, and after this convo - I have no doubt you will be seeking her and the Seaweed Sisters out!   More on Dana:   Most recently, Dana contributed choreography to the Film adaptation of In The Heights, and acted as the pre-production movement coach for Baz Luhrmann’s upcoming Elvis Biopic. Dana also makes up one third of the wildly original and imaginative group “The Seaweed Sisters” (adored and admired by a wide range of audiences from toddlers and their parents to the screens of Dance Camera West, and the Cascadia International Women’s Film Festival). Dana has been teaching for over thirteen years, and she is constantly experimenting with new technologies and techniques (like 360 degree video, VR and Drones). She draws inspiration from every corner of the dance world, from street styles to social dances, and Mime to Burlesque. Most distinguishable by her refined yet bizarre style always calling on a healthy sense of humor sure to leave a smile on every face.

Richard Elszy is passionately dedicated to training the next generation of dancers through his technical expertise, and inspiring them with inventive and picturesque choreography. We talk about starting late as a dancer, how he had to work through alignment and his body type that wasn’t technically ideal, the power of using imagery, the nerves that come with sharing his work on social media and online platforms, and Building Blocks of Dance!   “Building Blocks of Dance” is an online dance technique program for teachers.  BBD provides strategies and tips on how to make complex concepts relatable to young dancers.  This program has successfully inspired teachers throughout the US and across the globe.  However these are not the only online tools he has to offer. Richard has become a teaching sensation, offering online Lyrical Dance Classes, which are featured on DancePlug.com and as well has his own “Dance Technique on the Edge” videos available to dancers around the world.   As a Los Angeles bases choreographer, Richard’s classes at the esteemed Edge Performing Arts Center in Los Angeles are a popular place for students to work toward formulating technique into artistry. He has presented numerous works of choreography at Club Jeté – LA’s Premier Dance Showcase, as well as coaching and choreographing dance concept videos featuring Nia Frazier of ‘Dance Moms’ titled “Young Love”,  Chelsie Hill and the Rollettes “Be Boundless” and “We Can Together” campaigns and choreographing a TV pilot for TV star and Emmy nominated actress Shanti Lowry of ‘Family Time.’ Richard also travels throughout the US, Canada and Australia teaching master classes and choreography for studios and conventions such as “Immerse Artists Experience” “Movement Dance” “Dance Masters Of Michigan" “Chicago National Association of Dance Masters” and the “Rollettes Experience”.  He was also recently awarded the “Believer Award” at the 2019 “Be Boundless Summit” for his choreography work with the” Rollettes”.   Richard’s choreography has earned several national awards, and other accreditations including the 2011 Rainbow Elite ‘Video of the Year’ for “Step Sisters” and nomination for Best Novelty/Character Musical Theater at the 2012 KARTV Dance Awards for “500 Miles.” Richard was recently awarded the Star Award in the Best Ballet/Open Category for his piece “Swim Good” at 2019 Industry Dance Awards in Hollywood.  This was Richard’s second time receiving this honor as he was the 2014 winner for his piece “Tornado”. He also received a 2015 Industry Dance Award nomination for his work entitled, “All I Could Do.”   Richard combines his extensive understanding of technique with an innovative choreographic style to create a unique class and coaching experience for dancers of all levels across America and abroad. With his endless yearning for knowledge, Richard is eager to see what journeys he will embark on next, and is enthused by the opportunity to continue inspiring future generations of artists.

Expectations we put on our art and ourselves, how to cultivate our own self worth, embracing the growth and transitions as us  as artists and, of course, failure. We cover it all this week with Christie Lee Manning!   Christie Lee Manning is one of the UK’s most versatile performers. Born and raised in Vancouver, Canada, Christie has worked with such artists as Lenny Kravitz, Nelly Furtado, and Michael Buble. She played a lead role in the musical 'Sweet Mystery', and has performed and adjudicated in Brazil for the XXI International Dance Seminar alongside Chan Goh, Monica Proenca, and Karah Abiog. Other credits include the sitcom Package Deal (TV), sci-fi series Warehouse 13 (TV), and Sky 1's 'Got To Dance' Season 5, mentored by Adam Garcia.   Christie has taught all over the world, from New York to Australia, choreographed for the National Lacrosse League, and is also the Creator of Industry Dance Magazine, a Canadian online website for dancers and choreographers alike. She is a member of Lukas McFarlane's contemporary company, UnTitled, and is the artistic director of BODY Jazz Theatre UK. 

Stacey Tookey  is back and sharing with us current industry conversions and plans, how she has become her own business, the true practice of self care and working through imposter syndrome.  After connecting with pre-professionals and professional dancers feeling lost and disconnected, Stacey has created a virtual program called The Bridge where dancers from around the world receive unparalleled training, mind, body and artistry.  Emmy-nominated choreographer Stacey Tookey is a multitalented, Canadian-born director, choreographer and dancer who has worked with legendary musical artists such as Celine Dion, Bette Midler, Justin Timberlake, and Michael Bublé. Stacey performed as a member of Mia Michaels’ cutting edge dance company R.A.W., New York’s Parsons Dance Project, Ballet British Columbia, ChuThis, and the Houston Grand Opera’s Carmen. She also earned the coveted role as Assistant Choreographer for Broadway’s A Few Good Men Dancin’ and was an original cast member for the entire five-year run of Celine Dion’s record-breaking show, A New Day at Caesars Palace. Stacey’s passionate pieces on So You Think You Can Dance have earned her three consecutive Emmy nominations from 2010-12. She has also choreographed for Dancing With The Stars in the featured Macy’s Stars of Dance opening number. She choreographed the video for Atlantic Records recording artist Christina Perri’s chart-topping hit Jar of Hearts, as well as Vienne’s She Breaks, and John Torres Ocean music videos.

We talk about body-positive teaching, the impact of conscious educators and the impact of mindfulness within dance. She trained in the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) syllabus, and has completed their Certificate in Ballet Teaching Studies (CBTS). She also trained at the San Francisco Conservatory of dance and performed professionally with Brisas de Espana, a Flamenco and Spanish dance company. She has been teaching for over 10 years, teaching at both for-profit and not for profit schools and serving a diverse community of dancers. Benicia Ballet School, Community Youth Center, San Francisco Conservatory of Dance, Sonoma Conservatory of Dance are just a few of the places that have been her dance homes. She graduated with B.A. in Theater and Dance from CSUEB, where she had the opportunity to add to her training in modern, choreography, jazz and hip-hop from noted Bay Area directors/choreographers Nina Haft, Eric Kupers and Laura Elaine Ellis. Katrena has performed and taught across the United States and Canada including Vancouver, New Mexico, and New York.

She is back for round 2! Her first episode on the podcast, Episode 43, was a bomb of inspiration and love. Liana has worked with everyone from Britney Spears to Ricky Martin to Katy Perry. We loved her so much - we brought her back and this time to talk about her program, Body Language. Over the past few years, Liana has taken her love of dance and movement and brought back into an authentic experience - one that is centered around enjoying your how your body moves, how your heart grooves, and how community connects us all.

Emmy Nominated Choreographer, and International tap star Chloé Arnold was discovered at a young age in Washington, DC by the legendary Debbie Allen. A leading lady of tap, Chloé has performed on stages around the globe and her choreography has been featured in over 50 episodes of The Late Late Show With James Corden, including the hit Crosswalk The Musical, Aladdin with Will Smith, Mena Massoud, and Naomi Scott.  Also on hit television shows such as So You Think You Can Dance, Good Morning America, HBO's Black Lady Sketch show, and national commercials/print campaigns for Special K, Macy’s, GAP, Aldo/Refinery 29, and Cantu.     Chloé’s is the Artistic Director & Founder of Syncopated Ladies, an all-female Tap company that are widely known for viral videos that have accumulated over 50 million views. The most successful being their tribute to Prince and their cover of Beyoncé’s Formation, which Beyoncé shared on all of her social media and then hired Chloé and the Syncopated Ladies to perform at her Ivy Park active wear clothing line launch at TopShop, London. Chloé along with her company performed live on ABC's Good Morning America and have had sold-out concerts in Los Angeles, Dubai, New York City and Washington, DC, receiving rave reviews in The New York Times and more.     Chloé is also a female entrepreneur that holds a degree from Columbia University. She and her sister co-founded Chloé and Maud Productions and DC Tap Festival, and co-produced the award-winning documentary TAP WORLD with Hollywood Executive Producer Dean Hargrove.    Other career highlights include winning So You Think You Can Dance: Dance Crew Battle (Season 11), HBO’s The Comeback, recurring role as an Onyx Girl on HBO's Boardwalk Empire, guest performing on America's Got Talent and Dancing With The Stars, a sold-out NY run of her One Woman show My Life. My Diary. My Dance. at La MaMa in New York City, Global Fusion Concert in Dubai, Jacob’s Pillow Dance, Broadway Cares/Equity Fights Aids Easter Bonnet at The Minskoff Theatre, numerous musical productions with Debbie Allen including performing at a star-studded gala hosted by Diddy at the Howard Theatre in Washington, DC.

Let the inspiration flow! We are talking about goals and the complexity of goal setting, how to build confidence and the difference between performative success vs authentic love of the process and so much more. Justin Su’a is an Executive Coach for elite performers. He is currently with the Tampa Bay Rays (Previously Boston Red Sox and Cleveland Browns Organizations). He also travels the country speaking and training various organizations on how to optimize performance and create a culture of excellence. Justin’s clients perform in the NFL, Olympics, WWE, PGA, CrossFit, the U.S. Army and the MLB. He is the author of two books: "Parent Pep Talks: The 10 Must Have Mental Skills Your Child Must Have to Succeed in Sports, School, and Life"​ and, "Mentally Tough Teens: Developing the Winning Mindset". Justin is also the host of the daily, "Increase Your Impact" Podcast on iTunes.

Misty Lown is a dance powerhouse and entrepreneurial force. Misty Lown is the founder, president and energized force behind More Than Just Great Dancing™ - A licensed dance studio affiliation program that has a positive impact on over 60,000 dance students around the globe each week. She is also the founder of MoreThanDancers.com, an online lifestyle magazine for young people that has over 35,000 visitors each month.   Her dance studio, Misty’s Dance Unlimited, founded in 1998 and named a “Top 50 Studios in the Nation” by Dance Spirit Magazine has provided $225,000 in scholarship for dancers. Misty has been a speaker at the  PULSE Teachers Convention, Hollywood Connection, Dance Teacher Web, Dance Teacher Summit, and the DanceLife Conference. She has also been the keynote speaker for the Australian Teachers of Dancing Convention. Misty is on the staff of Dance Revolution Convention, a faith based dance convention, and has authored over 40 industry articles.   She is a sought after speaker and recently shared her business methods as a guest blogger on SUCCESS.com and as a speaker at IF:Gathering Local and the US Army Garrison Woman’s Equality Day. She has been recognized as “Teacher of the Year” by Eclipse, "Outstanding Businesswoman of the Year" by the YWCA and awarded the “Pope John XXIII Award for Distinguished Service” by Viterbo University and the “Philanthropy Award” from the Red Cross.   Misty is an entrepreneur at heart. In addition to her dance studio and licensing program, she owns a dancewear store, a dance competition and a self-storage business. She is the author of One Small Yes and creator the One Small Yes podcast.

A Canadian native and original member of the pioneering dance group Streetscape, Bradley relocated to the U.S. after winning a Canadian Talent Search and top honors at The IMTA Awards in New York and L.A. Choreography honors include an Ovation Award, World Dance Award, and multiple NAACP Awards. Other credits include; La La Land, The Goofy Movie, and World of Dance. Bradley currently serves as Creative Director at Cantinas Arts, is happily married and has three beautiful children.   Bradley has a deep desire to share the spirit, freedom, and power behind street dance culture with the world. As the founder of The Groovaloos, Groove Theory, and Groove Mindset, he uses his dynamic life experiences and powerful analogies from the art form to break people free from self-doubt, anxiety, disconnectedness, and fear. Bradley believes it’s crucial for people to step into who they are designed to be and to bring that authenticity into the circle.    Initially from an academic background, Bradley dramatically switched gears and dove into twenty-five years of street dance culture. He pioneered a movement in Los Angeles that ignited the community, launched countless artists, and positively impacted the landscape for hip hop and freestyle dance in culture and media. Bradley went on to perform and choreograph at the highest levels in the industry from L.A.’s commercial world to New York’s Broadway stages, orchestrating complex multi-layered theatre productions while creating a curriculum and teaching at universities and conferences internationally. His collaborations include the likes of the directors of Hamilton and Jesus Christ Superstar, to orchestrating the story of his crew in their own Off-Broadway show and leading them onto So You Think You Can Dance, Dancing With the Stars, Superstars of Dance, The Wayne Brady Show and Ellen.

From winning the world ballet competition Prix de Lausanne, to hitting the stages with ABT, Miami City Ballet,  SYTYCD, and Broadway’s Newsies Alex Wong has crossed over from ballet companies to tv, film, and live theatre.  Alex speaks about his resistance to dance at a young age because “only girls dance” to being instrumental in the Boys Dance Too viral movement. He shares how his teachers were the most critical part of his ballet success as well as the multiple, often public, injuries that shaped his career and defined how he moves through life as a person, dancer and artist.   Alex can be seen in multiple roles starting in 2011 including the TV series "Smash" directed by Steven Spielberg, "Glee," and as a semi-finalist on "American Idol." On Broadway, he portrayed Sniper in the original cast of "Newsies" and later in "The King and I." In 2014/2015 he landed roles in NBC's "Peter Pan Live!", "Ted 2" and "Crazy Ex-Girlfriend" and a co-starring role in the Starz series "Flesh and Bone." Alex also continues to return every season as a reoccurring All-Star on "So You Think You Can Dance."

Clint Salter, founder of Dance Studio Owner's Association has been helping us close out each episode this season, so it's only fitting he closes the season with us!  In just the past few months, Clint has held a massive Dance event in NYC and released another book, Dance Studio Secrets. Lauren and Clint dive deep into the ideas around innovation, being in flow and showing up in the spaces of personal JOY, what is takes to serve long term thinking over immediate gratification and the courage it takes to make difficult decisions. Listen now on Apple podcasts, spotify or at thedancepodcast.com Learn more about Clint at dsoa.com

This week Lauren speaks to what she has learned from her studies focusing on Mental Skills Training. From the responsibilities we hold as dance educators to building and executing goals to creating and standing for the dance community we desire. Lauren is in the hot seat with guest host, Julianna Bootsman, asking the deep questions about values, intentions and, of course, a few laughs along the way!

Josh is a New York based choreographer and performer. Throughout Josh's career, he has worked some of the most respected jobs in the industry including Broadway, national tours, national commercials, film and television. He has performed in major venues across the world including United States, Canada, Mexico and Europe.   Some of his recent choreographic work includes New York Fashion Week, Audi Ottawa, a commercial for Modos Furniture, Mary Poppins at Arrow Rocks Lyceum Theater and the world premiere of Medicine the Musical, which ran in New York City, Off-Broadway. He was the associate choreographer for the Saturday Night Fever National Tour as well as Kiss me Kate at the Summer Theater of New Canaan. This summer Josh will be returning to the Lyceum Theater to choreograph their season opening, Cinderella.   As a performer, some of his favorite credits include Disney's 1st National Tour of Newsies (asst. Dance Captain), Neleus in Mary Poppins on Broadway and the 1st National Tour, Baby John in West Side story (Stratford Festival), Wizard Of Oz National Tour (Troika), and dancing on NBC's Saturday Night Live with Jimmy Fallon. Josh has been featured in Dance Spirit Magazine, Dance Canada Quarterly, Industry Dance Magazine and Dance Plug Los Angeles. He has taught at Edge Performing Arts Center and is currently on faculty at the Broadway Dance Center in New York City where he has been a guest choreographer for many of their events.

This episode is all about TRANSITIONS! Transitions in cities, disciplines, roles, and casts. Christina Bodie has had a beautiful career - all of which required a lot of flexibility and adaptability as she transitioned.  Originally from Edmonton, Canada, Christina studied in the professional division of the Royal Winnipeg Ballet School. She went on to graduate from the Juilliard School in New York City in 2005 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts. Upon graduation, Christina launched her professional career dancing with the Koresh Dance Company in Philadelphia for two seasons. In 2007, Christina returned to Canada to join Les Ballets Jazz de Montréal (BJM Danse), with which she toured the world for eight seasons. In 2015, Christina relocated to Los Angeles to join BODYTRAFFIC. In addition to her concert dance career, she has performed in television productions and special events for organizations such as Cirque du Soleil, L'Oreal, Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines and Radio Canada. Christina is also passionate about teaching and choreographing. She is currently on dance faculty at Loyola Marymount University, Windward School and Marat Daukayev School of Ballet. Christina teaches master classes nationally and has been on guest faculty for the University of Southern California, Regional Dance America, Francisco Gella Dance Works, Idyllwild Arts Academy, Long Beach Ballet, Los Angeles Theater Center and Greater Washington Dance Center. Christina also enjoys rehearsal directing, and in 2017, she was invited by choreographer Barak Marshall to stage his work Monger on the dancers at the University of Southern California’s prestigious Glorya Kaufman School of Dance. Christina’s love of teaching extends beyond dance. In 2015, Christina completed her yoga teacher training through Yogaworks, and she enjoys incorporating yoga into her dance classes. 

Dr. Justin is fascinated by movement and is committed to a practice of personal and collective growth. With a passion for continual learning and sharing, he thrives off of cultivating experiences and evidence informed knowledge surrounding movement, self-development, and life optimization.    Graduating with a Doctorate in Chiropractic Medicine (D.C). Justin received the Palmer West Clinical Excellence and Virgil V. Strang Chiropractic Philosophy awards. Accolades which are distinguishing honours reflecting his commitment to delivering a result orientated treatment, optimal client experience, with a focus on community and client engagement and education.   Justin innovated Rollax, a movement therapy system that engages and optimizes the brain-body connection. He is a movement and health legacy ambassador for Lululemon Athletica and Clear Float Spa, is a privileged Instructor for the movement company, Rocktape. 

Sarah Rodenhouse is the Founder/Movement Leader of Moved LA *and* Artistic Director of MashUp Contemporary Dance Company.  Between these two entities, she is quickly becoming a mover and shaker in the LA dance scene. Through Moved LA, she brings movement workshops to working professionals in businesses such as Pinterest - and hosts wellness retreats. Via MashUp, Sarah choreographs with professional dancers and presents performances all of LA including the A+D Museum, Glendale Brand Library, and multiple festivals.  www.thedancepodcast.com Learn more about the Dance Studio Owners Association: https://dsoa.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dancestudioownersassociation/ https://www.facebook.com/dancestudioownersassociation/

Marissa Labog, nicknamed "Mighty" by her peers, is committed to her strong belief in the transformative power of storytelling. Indicated by her nickname, as an actor, dancer, and stunt woman, Marissa is fearless and powerful in her pursuit for creative adventure earning her awards such as the Lester Horton Award for Outstanding Performer, the Solo Award, and an Ovation Award Nomination.   Commercially, she has worked with artists such as Tina Turner, Christina Aguillera, Justin Timberlake, and Toni Basil. She has also appeared in countless commercials for Nike, iPod, Coke, and T-Mobile. Her TV and film credits include: MTV Movie Awards, the Emmys, Jimmy Kimmel Live, Wolverine,   Dancing nationally and internationally with PCB Ballet and Inland Pacific Ballet, Marissa was urged by her loving mother to take up martial arts to learn to "defend" herself while traveling abroad. Enrolling her in Karate, Marissa excelled and furthered her study with capoeira, and Tae Kwon Do. Curious of her training and its connection to her growing desire to tell stories, Marissa went on to Scripps College where she graduated with a BA in both Dance and English and the coveted Lucille Morrison Scholarship. After graduation, Marissa performed as a principle dancer across the United States, Japan, Ireland, Portugal, Russia, China, Holland, Belgium, and England.

Internationally Recognized Choreographer & Director Jeff Dimitriou’s artistic projects include creating for film, television, world ceremonies, theatre, live events, and art installations. He is the creator and founder of JDX Creative, an entertainment production house. He has created 6 original theatrical stage presentations that are currently playing worldwide. Jeff has the rare privilege of working in many different genres of the arts and entertainment industry. From world touring theatre productions, to choreographing and directing for mass ceremonies such as The Pan American Games (Head Choreographer), Parapan Games (Head Choreographer) and FIFA World Cup Opening Ceremonies (Choreographer) to such esteemed organizations as Cirque du Soleil, NHL, MLB, and Mirvish Productions. He also also directed and staged the opening sequence for the 2018 NHL Classic, broadcast across North America. Choreographing the new film version of Anne of Green Gables, choreography that was featured on the Netflix hit Degrassi, choreographer of Footloose and Mamma Mia, a national art installation campaign for BMO & Cineplex, A Middle Eastern Tour of the stage musical Cinderella, and also choreographed the Opening Piece for the 2016 Cultural Architect Awards.www.thedancepodcast.com

During his teenage years, Mark met a man named Luther Brown (choreographer/judge of So You Think You Can Dance Canada), who was soon to be his mentor, partner and close friend for many years to come. Luther invited Mark to be a part of Canada's first ever Hip-Hop/R&B Dance Agency – Do Dat Entertainment. While dancing for Do Dat, Mark performed with countless Canadian artists, such as Jully Black, Shawn Desman, Maestro Fresh Wes, Victoria Duffield and Nelly Furtado to name a few. He has also performed at some of the industries top stellar events, such as the Juno Awards, The MMVA’s, Canadian Idol, Canada's Got Talent and So You Think You Can Dance Canada.   Mark decided to make his next major move: to become a dancer in U.S. He had the opportunity to work with the some of America's biggest choreographers such as Fatima Robinson, Laurie-Ann Gibson, Sho-Tyme and Hi Hat. During his U.S. journey, he danced for artists like Cam’ron, Mariah Carey, Nivea, Missy Elliott, Mary J Blige, Olivia, Kelis and Mario to name a few.  www.thedancepodcast.com Learn more about the Dance Studio Owners Association: https://dsoa.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dancestudioownersassociation/ https://www.facebook.com/dancestudioownersassociation/

Genevieve Carson is the artistic director of L.A. Contemporary Dance Company (LACDC).  Genevieve’s work as a director, choreographer, and performer has spanned across North America, the Philippines, Argentina, Sweden, and New Zealand. Genevieve’s work is often focused on the human condition. Genevieve has been a guest artist and instructor at Chapman University, Cal Arts, Cal State Long Beach, University of Auckland, and University of the Philippines. She is on faculty at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA), where she teaches an array of classes and directs concerts. Genevieve graduated cum laude with a BFA in Dance Performance from Chapman University.www.thedancepodcast.com Learn more about the Dance Studio Owners Association: https://dsoa.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dancestudioownersassociation/ https://www.facebook.com/dancestudioownersassociation/

Ben Johnson is currently the Director of Performing Arts for the Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs.  In this position he is tasked with relaunching the Performing Arts Division of the City of Los Angeles, which includes overseeing six city-owned theaters, relaunching a festival platform for the city, developing cultural exchange programs with venues and artists in LA, and advocating on behalf of LA artists on a national and international level.  Previously, he was the Program Manager at the Center for the Art of Performance at UCLA (CAP-UCLA) in Los Angeles, considered one of the top contemporary performing arts institutions in the country, and where he produced significant contemporary performing arts events throughout Los Angeles. Also previously he was the Director of Programs at United States Artists (LA) which awarded 50, 50K awards to artists in all disciplines. www.thedancepodcast.com Learn more about the Dance Studio Owners Association: https://dsoa.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dancestudioownersassociation/ https://www.facebook.com/dancestudioownersassociation/

Lam was born in Marin County, California. Born from immigrant parents from Vietnam, Lam found his passion for life in dance at age 4. Training at Marin Ballet, Lam formed vital relationships that would mold his career and was coached by renowned Svetlana Afanasieva, Cynthia Lucas, and Mikko Nissinen. In 200, Lam began his tenure with Canada's National Ballet School under the directorship of Mavis Staines. Coached by famous Sergiu Stefanschi, Lam developed a foundation that would launch his career in 2003 with the invitation from Mikko Nissinen to join Boston Ballet. www.thedancepodcast.com Learn more about the Dance Studio Owners Association: https://dsoa.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dancestudioownersassociation/ https://www.facebook.com/dancestudioownersassociation/

Jen and Kyla - two performing artists from Toronto and New York join Lauren for some big Podcasting chats! On their podcast, Tits and Teeth, they have a blast interviewing their peers in show biz, unveiling their secrets about balancing this crazy unconventional life, and debating issues in the arts. They play games and ask insightful questions, all while sipping on their guests favourite drink! www.thedancepodcast.com Learn more about the Dance Studio Owners Association: https://dsoa.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dancestudioownersassociation/ https://www.facebook.com/dancestudioownersassociation/

Colette began her dance training under Evelyn Kreason at Michigan Ballet Theatre.  Eventually, she completed her Independent Study at the Alvin Ailey School and began choreographing, performing and teaching in NYC, LA and London.  She pursued her MFA Choreography Degree at Roehampton University and co-founded the LA Follies, a company of phenomenal dancers, acrobats, synchronized swimmers, roller skaters, poppers, breakers, ballerinas, tappers, aerialists, fire dancers, ice skaters, aerialists (and sometimes mermaids) that bring arena size magic to Hollywood and Los Angeles events. www.thedancepodcast.com Learn more about the Dance Studio Owners Association: https://dsoa.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dancestudioownersassociation/ https://www.facebook.com/dancestudioownersassociation/

Colette began her dance training under Evelyn Kreason at Michigan Ballet Theatre.  Eventually, she completed her Independent Study at the Alvin Ailey School and began choreographing, performing and teaching in NYC, LA and London.  She pursued her MFA Choreography Degree at Roehampton University and co-founded the LA Follies, a company of phenomenal dancers, acrobats, synchronized swimmers, roller skaters, poppers, breakers, ballerinas, tappers, aerialists, fire dancers, ice skaters, aerialists (and sometimes mermaids) that bring arena size magic to Hollywood and Los Angeles events. www.thedancepodcast.com insta: @thedancepodcast Learn more about the Dance Studio Owners Association: https://dsoa.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dancestudioownersassociation/ https://www.facebook.com/dancestudioownersassociation/

Dominique Kelley has been named one of the most promising up and coming choreographers of his generation.  An avid tapper and percussionist, Dominique tries to fuse rhythm patterns with classical movement to create a visual and aural experience. "Black and Blue" was his first Broadway tour at age 12, and then “Bring in ‘Da Noise, Bring in ‘Da Funk national tour at 15, and ever since he has had a love of performing, choreographing, and movement coaching. No stranger to stage and live performance, he has collaborated with recording artists such as Beyonce’, Janet Jackson, Mariah Carey, Gwen Stefani, Chris Martin, Queen Latifah, Taylor Swift, FKA Twigs, Miley Cyrus, Frank Ocean, Nelly, Cee Lo Green, B.o.B, and Flo Rida,. Not leaving out sports entertainment, he has been one of the main choreographers for such sports teams as the San Francisco 49ers, San Diego Chargers, Brooklyn Nets, Boston Celtics,  LA Clippers, and many teams around the country. Dominique’s goal and endeavor is to bring movement and dance artistry to every facet of the entertainment industry. www.thedancepodcast.com  insta: @thedancepodcast Learn more about the Dance Studio Owners Association: https://dsoa.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dancestudioownersassociation/ https://www.facebook.com/dancestudioownersassociation/

Joey Arrigo is an dancer, aerialist and choreographer. He was “the trickster” in Cirque du Soleil’s KOOZA and part of Shaping Sound Dance Company’s first national tour. He was also a Top 20 dancer on So You Think You Can Dance Canada and a choreographer’s assistant to Mia Michaels during Seasons 1–3. Joey holds multiple titles from Dance Masters of America and was the 2010 Senior National VIP for JUMP. He has choreographed and taught in Canada, the US, Europe, and Australia, including teaching with Break The Floor’s conventions, JUMP, NUVO and 24/7. Currently, Joey plays the lead role of “Waz” in Cirque du Soleil’s VOLTA. thedancepodcast.com insta: @thedancepodcast Learn more about the Dance Studio Owners Association: https://dsoa.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dancestudioownersassociation/ https://www.facebook.com/dancestudioownersassociation/

Expectations, recognition and awareness. In this Season finale Lauren closes with personal relefections and exercise that will set up 2019 for a year of gratitude and clarity. 

Deirdre Barnes started her career performing in Las Vegas with world renowned entertainment company: Cirque du Soleil in their show Criss Angel “Believe” then went onto to tour the world with some of the most iconic pop stars, like Britney Spears and Justin Bieber. Deirdre opens up about what that initial transition into the professional world was like for her, what she learned from reowned choreographer Wade Robson, and the best thing she took away from both her stage and touring experiences. Since moving to Los Angeles Deirdre has worked extensively in film and TV. She has been featured on Dancing With The Stars, Disney: Descendants, the Ellen Show, Glee, Shake it Up, The Voice, Black Eyed Peas, American Idol, So You Think You Can Dance and multiple award shows. She has also danced alongside artists such as: Nicki Minaj, David Guetta, Nick Jonas, Gwen Stefani, Backstreet Boys, Incubus, Pitbull, Jlo and Gloria Estefan. Deirdre has toured the globe alongside Justin Bieber and was featured in his “Believe” film and dance instructional DVD. Most recently, Deirdre completed a 2 year residency performing alongside Britney Spears in her hit show: “Piece Of Me.”

Are you hustling hard? Do you feel like there are a million thing to do, directions to go, things on your bucket list that are screaming at you to get done? Lauren knows all about the hustle of doing- and it hasn’t always felt great or worked well. This week, Lauren introduces the concept- Be more to Do more. 

Straight from a Casting Director's mouth! We discover the do's and don'ts in your dance training, in auditions, on set and working as an assistant. Amy Wright began her professional career in 1995 and has become one of Canada’s most in-demand Choreographers. Her work includes feature films, movies of the week, television series, reality TV, commercials and stage musicals, including Canada’s prestigious SHAW FESTIVAL. Currently, Amy is the Casting Director, Choreographer and Consulting Producer for FAMILY CHANNEL’S hit series “The Next Step”. Amy’s choreography was featured on three episodes of So You Think You Can Dance Canada (Season one). Recent work includes: Crimson Peak with Tom Hiddleston, directed by Guillermo Del Toro (Feature Film), Global TV’s Working The Engles directed by Jason Priestly, Saving Hope (CTV), Lost Girl and Copper (Showcase), Defiance and 12 Monkeys (SyFy), Hemlock Grove (Netflix), Degrassi: TNG (CTV). Amy is proud of her work on Emmy and Golden Globe winner Grey Gardens (HBO) with stars Drew Barrymore and Jessica Lange. The IIFA Awards (2011) opening, a “flash mob” with over 200 dancers live onstage, remains Amy’s most-watched choreography with over 600 million viewers worldwide.

Mariah-Jane has been a dance educator for over 30 years, presenting around the world with conferences like IADMS, Healthy Dance Canada and Dance Science and Somatics Conference.  We cover topics like the Brain Gym and how it helps Mariah-Jane prime and ready dancers for more powerful learning. We explore how to come back from stress states to perform at our best and changing the state of your brain as you train.

From his 13 years in the dance and entertainment industry Clint recognised an absolute need for dance studio owners to become entrepreneurs and not simply technicians. He went on to create DSOA, the first online business school for dance studio owners. This online training course sees studio owners from across the globe engage in the program to transform their passion into a highly profitable business. Whether you are an owner, independent contractor or the CEO of your life- we dive deep into communication, language, partnerships and what is takes to be the best version of yourself every day.   More on Clint  Dance has been a part of his life for over 20 years. From starting dance classes at the age of 9 to creating and selling a dance studio at the age of 16 and currently helping other dance studio owners build their dream studios through our business growth programs and events, this has been my passion. Aside from creating and selling 3 businesses by the time he was 28, he has also been a Senior Celebrity Agent for 5 years managing top media and television personalities as well as being the touring manager for the Tony Award Winning musical Jersey Boys.  But at the end of the day, all roads lead me back to what he does best and what is my absolute passion in life...helping dance studio owners become more profitable and make a bigger impact in the lives of their staff and dance families.

He is back! As the most interviewed and only interviewer on the podcast! This week Calen and Lauren are all about the Teachers as Calen and Lauren open up some of their processes, approaches, and fails. Calen talks about the distinction between Contemporary and Lyrical, how he provides a space for play and where failing as a teacher is necessary. He also speaks to a flip in his leadership style that may inspire a new perspective for dance educators around the world!

Mentorship. Canada vs US. Female empowerment. Money. Magical mixes of motivation.  We cover it all with this incredible man. Jay T Schramek has a twenty year teaching career spanning Canada’s most prestigious post-secondary arts institutions and dozens of dance studios. A graduate of Ryerson University’s dance program and a former Mr. Dance of Canada, he has been a faculty member at the Randolph Academy for the Performing Arts, George Brown College and Saint Lawrence College.As a performer, he continues to work in theatres across the continent. He has performed for The Stratford Shakespeare Festival, Mirvish Productions, Capitol Theatre, Charlottetown Festival, Stage West, Drayton Entertainment, Clearchannel Entertainment and dozens more. Jay is one of North America’s most prolific talent adjudicators and has judged and hosted over 100 talent competitions, pageants and festivals across the globe. He is a member and contributor to the Professional Adjudicator Alliance manual, has written articles for The Agent’s Book and had a column in Dance Canada Quarterly. Jay is a recipient of a Tyrone Guthrie Award and a Maud Whitmore Scholarship. He recently became the exclusive Canadian distributor of Miller and Ben tap shoes. Check out Tap Shoes Canada to buy the world’s best tap dancing shoes!

Leslie is the founder of Youth Protection Advocates in Dance” (YPAD)  whose Mission is to build empowered dance communities through education and activism. We talk about Self & Identity, Social Media Literacy and Mental Health tools, curriculum and workshops for Dnacers. Leslie also shares her journey beholding shame resiliency and what propelled her into the advocacy of emotion, physical and sexual health for dancers across the world.  After serving as Faculty at the Edge Performing Arts for 14 years and Millennium Dance Complex for 12 years, she chose to leave Hollywood in December of 2017 after 16 years and relocate to Colorado to be with family, raise her daughter in a calmer environment and continue developing services and curriculum that advocate for youth. She has been guest faculty on several conventions including The Pulse, Dance Olympus, Dance Teacher Web, One Family Festival and more and is represented by the agency McDonald Selznick Association (MSA) in Hollywood, California.

Choreographer Marinda Davis has a journey to share — not only about her company, marInspired, her work on ‘Dancing With the Stars’ and ‘World of Dance’ — but also about her personal health issues. Marinda danced professionally with Sting, 98 Degrees, & was a founding & principal dancer for Anthony Morigerato's, AMDP, NY. Choreographing for the world's top studios & known as an inspiring, life changing teacher, you’ll  often find Marinda on the convention circuit inspiring countless dancers. She’s presented work at the Joyce, YCF, Club Jeté & The Giving Tree. In 2010, Dance.com recognized her as a Top 10 Young American Choreographer 25 & Under. In 2012, she premiered marInspired’s first full length NY show, Breakable enjoying a sold out run at Salvatore Capezio Theater. This same year, Marinda received her 1st Capezio ACE Award nomination. Marinda is on faculty at EDGE, BDC, Peridance & WILD. She’s the choreographer for Starpower's Power Pak & resident choreographer for Marked Dance Project. She recently choreographed Frankie Z’s videos, Hello & Faith. Now based in LA, Marinda was nominated for her 2nd Capezio ACE Award in 2015 & received 2nd runner up & funding for UNbreakable, the company’s 2nd full length show. They previewed at Dancerpalooza & premiered their full show at the El Portal in 2016. In 2017, Marinda brought UNbreakable to NY’s Symphony Space. Marinda recently choreographed a piece for Dancing With The Stars' finale starring Julianne Hough. Marinda’s powerful story is the subject of the docuseries My Last Days premiering on the CW. 

When did you feel like you "made it"? That was a question asked to the world-class faculty in a Q&A this weekend at a convention. Lauren shares their answers and what she knows about the process and unpacking of "making it" in this industry. 

It's been a journey - from an outstanding performer & educator to exceptional talent as an Artistic Director, Sandi Croft has carved a path of diversity, curiosity, and love of the dance world. We talk about auditioning for Cats 6 times and what resilience looks, feels and sounds like in the industry, we talk about the 4 Agreements book and walks us through her AD interview process and how she transitioned from dancer to director. Once the AD for Cirque Du Soleil’s Vegas-based show “O”, Sandi's role has to maintain the artistic vision and focus of each show. As a performer she has been seen in such internationally famous productions as Celine Dion’s “A New Day”, Gloria Estefan’s “Unwrapped Concert”, Shania Twain “A touch of Broadway”, principal dancer with Tokyo Disneyland, soloist for Dance and Desire – a tribute to Bob Fosse and many, more. As an instructor, choreographer and speaker, Sandi is in demand all over the world. It is no surprise that praise for her work as a Dance Educator parallels the praise she receives as a performer. She has been invited to teach in Hong Kong, Manila, Tokyo, Sweden, and throughout North America. Her popularity as a teacher, choreographer/speaker led to a successful & unique role as the Asian Pacific Marketing Representative for Capezio Ballet Makers and for Jean Ann Ryan Productions assisting in the audition tours, casting and the development and creations for new International theatrical and musical shows. Sandi’s enthusiasm and presentational style leaves professionals and young artists-to-be with a sense of confidence and achievement – she has been called the perfect role model.

Jess Spinner is a former professional ballet dancer turned Health Coach and founder of The Whole Dancer. She supports dancers in reaching their body goals through one on one coaching and her online course, The Dancers' Best Body Program. Dancers from New York City Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, Boston Ballet, and aspiring dancers from around the world have participated in individual coaching and group programs from The Whole Dancer. There are options to fit every need and budget and many resources are provided at no – charge in order to support as many dancers as possible to find balance and true happiness as you work towards your dance goals.

We have a dancing doctor, Dr. Tina Wang. Can you dance and go to med school? What is Performing Arts Medicine? Dr. Wang shares how you can bring dance and science together for a beautiful career. Tina Wang practices a unique blend of Functional Medicine & Regenerative Medicine at Tupelo Pointe. Her focus is not just about treating musculoskeletal ailments but also meeting the functional, nutritional, unique needs of the person looking to optimize wellness. At Tupelo Pointe, she practices bespoke medicine, customized to her patient's individualized needs. By recognizing that all her patients are unique, she is able to adeptly utilize healing techniques across many disciplines tailored to her patients' needs.

Anxiety. Finding your artistic voice. Stripping labels and connecting with humanity. We cover a broad spectrum with Juel D Lane.  Juel  is an American dancer, choreographer, filmmaker, and one of Dance Magazine’s “25 to Watch.” With elite training from Tri-Cities High School and the Youth Ensemble of Atlanta, Lane earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) from the University of North Carolina School of the Arts with a focus on Contemporary Dance. Currently dancing with Bessie Award-winning Camille A. Brown & Dancers, Lane made history in 2012 as the first local and independent black choreographer to have his work commissioned by the Atlanta Ballet. From there, he participated in the 2015-2016 Alvin Ailey Dance Foundation New Directions Choreography Lab, and collaborated with dance legends across the United States. His dance films, "Just Another Day," "How to Kill a Ghost," and "When The Beat Drops," showcase the complexity, playfulness and creativity within this dynamic choreographer’s mind. 

Marjorie Goodson is breaking physical and creative boundaries with her luxurious, avant-garde coffee table book simply titled, MG. She is the daughter of Mark Goodson, the most popular game show creator and producer in the history of TV (Family Feud, The Price is Right, Match Game, To Tell The Truth, Beat the Clock) Marjorie is a proud and active supporter of The Actors Fund's Career Transition for Dancers, and has been an avid dancer since childhood. For Marjorie, dancing is her need, her want, her strength, her desire, her pleasure, her energy and sometimes her pain. “It’s my purpose and my passion, and it feeds my soul,” said Marjorie. With the release of MG, her book of photographic essays three years in the making, Marjorie most definitely pushes the artistic envelope to the pinnacle of creative performance. The book includes 153 commanding and empowering images by noted Romanian born art and fashion photographer, Andreea Radutoiu. The life-long dancer is captured – in glorious color, dramatic black and white and stimulating sepia tones – the magnificent and glorious 55-year-old Goodson in multiple dance postures in her passionate pursuit of life that goes beyond age and into the stratosphere of the emotional and physical connection to one’s inner self. “I feel my time is now,” says Goodson. There’s always tomorrow – there’s always an opportunity,” she says. “It’s tapping into your youth and having the courage to be creative and to live in the body physical.” MG is an artistic and visual collaboration between Goodson (concept and creative content), Radutoiu, and hair and makeup stylist, Torsten Witte (LaLa Land, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo), set against some of Southern California’s most dramatic and historic locations including, The Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, Milk Studios, the Dunes at Pismo and Zuma Beach. Goodson has always loved using her body to express art and with this exquisite tome, she hopes to inspire other women by letting them know they, too, can find their passion and confidence at any age.