The Naked Truth: Real Talk about West Coast Swing

The current public health crisis has caused the cancellation of weekend dance events, but it is also causing changes to the way event directors plan for and design their events. To better understand the thinking and decision-making of event directors, Eric sat down with three of them. First, Eric chatted with Lauren Wood, Event Director of All Star SwingJam, which was one of the first events to cancel in March. They talked about Lauren's decision to cancel and her thoughts about changes for the future. Next, Eric spoke with Dirk Haage, Event Director for the Bavarian Open, Berlin Swing Revolution, and Municorn Swing, about how he's planning for his events in the future. And finally, Eric sat down with Andy Bouman, co-Event Director for Boogie by the Bay, which attracts dancers from around the world. They discussed Andy's current thoughts about this year's event and his considerations for the event in the future. Take a look inside the planning and the considerations that event directors are undertaking in this time of crisis. footnotesAll Star Swing JamThe Bavarian OpenBerlin Swing RevolutionMunicorn SwingBoogie by the Bay

At a time when dance professionals are unable to do in person what they do best - dance, perform, and teach others - our champions have been forced to think about how to sustain their livelihoods. Eric spoke with two professionals who are using Patreon to share their art and their wisdom and stay connected to our community. First, Eric spoke with Alyssa Glanville, who shared her emotional response to the outbreak as well as her approach to providing her followers with an inside look at her process. She also discussed how she's spending her time and how she's pursuing another line of work to survive this pandemic. Then he spoke with Christopher Dumond about how the outbreak has impacted his personal life and his academic life, and how Chris is using Patreon to take an inside look at his own dancing and share his love of sound editing. Both of them are taking creative, thoughtful approaches to their involvement in our dance community, so take a listen and learn more! footnotesAlyssa Marie GlanvilleAlyssa's PatreonChristopher DumondChris's Patreon

The current public health crisis has left many of us with a whole mix of emotions, sometimes all in one day. We are experiencing a global shift in our day-to-day lives, our understanding of the world, and our thoughts about the future - not to mention the uncertainty of both what is happening now and what is yet to come. To help us grapple with our thoughts and feelings during this stressful time, Eric invited Dr. Divy Ravindranath back to the show. They talked about Divy's experience during this time, and how people are responding to the pandemic. Divy described this event as one of many different stresses but also of loss, and he explained how people may be going through the various stages of grief. He mentioned how this is an unprecedented time with a great deal of uncertainty, and he shared some strategies for dealing with the anxiety that comes with that. And they discussed how people can take care of themselves, what society can do to support people who are having a difficult time, and how dancers can manage their relationship with dance during this time. To leave you on a positive note, they end with a reflection of some of the good that is happening now and some optimism for the future. footnotesThat Discomfort You're Feeling Is Grief (Harvard Business Review)On Grief & Grieving: Finding the Meaning of Grief Through the Five Stages of Loss (Amazon.com)Managing Transitions: Making the Most of Change (Amazon.com)Transitions: Making Sense of Life's Changes (Amazon.com)

When the outbreak first took off in the United States, Eric sat down with Dr. John Blaska to discuss what we knew then about the virus and its spread. Several weeks later, Eric and Dr. Blaska chat again about the public health crisis and what we have learned since then. In this discussion, Eric asks John about his own experience during the crisis, and what he is seeing in the populations he treats through his clinic. They also talk about the issue of testing - the extent of testing, the importance of testing, and the need for more. They chatted about the different information coming out of the news, where more information is needed, and how people can be smart consumers of the news. And they explored what it will take - and how long it might take - for dancing to resume. Finally, John offered some hope and an opportunity for all of you listeners. So listen to this interview and stay informed and safe.

With the coronavirus pandemic continuing to spread around the world, we are getting more information and perspective about the severity of the problem and what it will take to resolve it. In this episode, Eric shares his own experience - his situation, his feelings about the outbreak, his relationship with dance - and he shares his own reflections on how this may affect our dance community. He talks about a timeline for a return to social dancing and to weekend events (warning: it isn't optimistic), and he discusses the changes he hopes we will see in our community moving forward. Then he sits down with friend of the show Tom Paderna to hear his feelings and experience, and his thoughts on how this will affect local and regional dancing in the short- and long-term. He discusses the risks and personal considerations of social dancing, and reflects on how our community has dealt with situations like 9/11 and the economic recession of 2008. Tom brings his perspective as a dancer and as a psychologist, looking at how this situation will affect us all as fellow human beings and as a community. And he leaves us all with a message of hope while we continue to live through this public health crisis. footnotesThe 4 plans to end social distancing, explained (Vox)

The current public health crisis has transformed our way of life, from our daily lives and work to our dancing and dance community. In this first special episode on the outbreak and how it is transforming our community, Eric speaks with some dance professionals about how they are feeling, how they are adapting to the current circumstances, and what they think the future might hold for our dance world. First, he spoke with Chantelle Pianetta about her reaction when things started shutting down in the San Francisco Bay Area, and how she started online beginner ballet classes. Next, he spoke with Cameo Cross McHenry and Tashina Beckmann King about they put together Global Westie Connection, a weekend of online workshops with the best of the best. And finally, Eric sat down with Courtney Adair and Sean McKeever to discuss how they are reacting to the outbreak and leveraging online media platforms to stay connected with their students around the globe. Hear more about the experiences of these champions - and be sure to check out the footnotes to take advantage of the great learning opportunities they are offering! footnotesSubmit your own story for an upcoming episodeChantelle Pianetta on WestieProGlobal Westie Connection - A Virtual SummitMovement+Lab on InstagramMovement+Lab on PatreonOnline West Coast Swing OpportunitiesVirtual Westie

We all go through ups and downs in our dance journeys, but sometimes the right thing for someone to do is to step away from the dance. At the start of this year, Catriona Wiles - champion dancer, teacher, event director, and emcee - decided to end her career in West Coast Swing. To better understand her decision, and the arc of her journey, Eric sat down with her for an honest, heartfelt, and forthcoming discussion. She talked about her start in West Coast Swing, how the dance started in the United Kingdom, and how she became a community leader in England. She shared the story of how she and Paul Warden started their partnership, how they choreographed routines, and why their partnership ended. She also shared her thoughts on the scene in Europe and what she hopes for the community. Finally, she explained why she's decided to retire from West Coast Swing, how she's feeling now that she's made the announcement, and what she hopes to do with her free time. It's a very authentic, revealing conversation that highlights some of the challenges of being immersed in our community. footnotesWest Coast Swing UKCatriona's announcement on FacebookPaul Warden & Catriona Wiles - US Open Classic Division 2008

With a new disease, COVID-19, spreading rapidly around the globe, social and physically interactive activities like partner dancing become higher risk for transmission of the illness. More people are being infected, and more are likely to get sick in the months ahead, so it is important that we as dancers do our best to minimize our risk of exposure - and to minimize the risk of transmission to others. To better understand the virus and what we can do to protect ourselves, Eric sat down with Dr. John Blaska, a heath care professional based in Minneapolis. John explained the science of the disease, how it spreads, and how to protect ourselves from it. Since John is also a dancer, he was able to talk about how dancers and event directors can respond to the situation and minimize the risks of exposure and transmission. Then Eric chatted with Brandi Guild, who shared her own concerns about attending a major dance event before going on a family vacation, working as a dance instructor, and potentially exposing those who may be more vulnerable in our community. Her perspective provides some considerations for casual dancers and professionals alike, so we can make better decisions for ourselves and those around us. Hopefully this episode provides some good information and perspectives so we can all protect ourselves and our community from a rapidly spreading illness. footnotesWorld Health Organization (WHO) Advice for the PublicWorld Health Organization (WHO) Q&A on CoronavirusCenters for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Coronavirus Disease 2019Dr. John Blaska's Hygiene Tips for DancersCDC Interim Guidance for Large Community Events Coronavirus 2019 Outbreak Map from Johns Hopkins UniversityLast Week Tonight with John Oliver: Coronavirus (YouTube)

In the second part of this conversation with Kelly, the conversation first shifts to a discussion of degendering competitions. Eric and Kelly share their own experiences competing in Novice in their non-traditional roles, and their views on the limitations in the current WSDC rules. Eric then asked Kelly about judging swing content at the Open this year, and she shared how she came up with the swing content app and worked to prepare for the Open. She also talked about the dancing at the Open, why she's hopeful for the future, and how people can and should get involved in providing feedback. Throughout it all, Kelly is thoughtful, kind, and balanced. Regardless of where you stand on the issues, this conversation provides some good perspective and insights. footnotesKelly CasanovaUS Open Swing Content Judges Process & Procedures (PDF)US Open Swing Content Definitions (PDF)Perspectives on degendering competitions: Kelly Casanova (blog)Perspectives on degendering competitions: Editorial (blog)

We are so fortunate to have people in our dance community who have not only have accomplished so much but continue to give of themselves to better our dance and our community. Kelly Casanova is one of those generous souls, and Eric was fortunate enough to sit down to learn from her years of experience as a competitor, teacher, and judge. In the first part of this conversation, Eric asked her about her beginnings in the swing world and what the scene was like at that time. They chatted about the Bay Area community and how it changed over time. Kelly also shared her experiences winning the Classic division and Jack & Jill division at the Open, and she revealed why she stopped competing. Then they discussed the event she created, Swing Break, and why it didn't last long, which led to a deeper discussion of what this dance is really about. Kelly is knowledgeable, insightful, and very authentic, and she offers a lot of wisdom and food for thought. footnotesKelly Casanova

Everyone of us who dances West Coast Swing had to learn how to do this dance at some point. To get good at the dance, we need to continue to learn and develop new skills. And along the way, we need teachers who impart knowledge and nurture our abilities. Learning and teaching are such an essential part of what we do as dancers, and they can shape both our understanding of the dance and how we do it. To learn more about learning, Eric sat down with Kris Swearingen, Champion-level dancer and middle school English teacher, to talk about how people learn and how to teach. They chatted about Kris's background and experience as an educator. They discussed a framework for understanding how people learn as well as how people differ in their learning abilities. Kris shared how he develops his students in the classroom and how he applies similar techniques to teaching dance. Eric asked Kris what he would like to see from teachers in our West Coast Swing community, and they ended with a conversation about how people can be better students of the dance. Whether you're a student of the dance, a teacher, or just curious about how humans work, this conversation will enlighten and give you a new perspective. footnotesBloom's Taxonomy - Vanderbilt University Center for TeachingMindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck (Amazon.com)"Mind Over Matter: Attitude and Mindset" on nakedbasics.com (blog)A Mind for Numbers: How to Excel at Math and Science (Even If You Flunked Algebra) by Barbara Oakley (Amazon.com)The Inner Game of Tennis: The Classic Guide to the Mental Side of Peak Performance by W. Timothy Gallwey (Amazon.com)Switch: How to Change Things When Change Is Hard by Chip Heath and Dan Heath (Amazon.com)

On February 7, 2015, The Next Generation Swing Dance Club hosted a fireside chat with the First Lady of Swing, Annie Hirsch. Taking place at Allegro Ballroom in Emeryville, California, the one-hour conversation was moderated by our friend, Tom Paderna, and featured special guest Kelly Casanova. Five years later, Eric is thrilled to share this rare interview with Annie, where she discussed her own experiences in swing. She talked about learning from her brother, her time as a contestant liaison, and why she created the points system. She shared stories about her partner Jack Carey, how they met, and some of their experiences dancing together. And she talked about what, in her view, makes swing dancing swing. Annie shared her experience with humor, wisdom, and lots of heart. So take a listen and learn more about the dance and this legend of swing! footnotesThe Next Generation Swing Dance ClubInside the WCS Studio: A Day with AnniePhotos from the event

Champion dancer, DJ, dance studio owner, architect, musician, vocalist, and all-around awesome person - there are lots of ways to describe Larisa Tingle. So it's no wonder that Eric was thrilled to finally sit down with her to talk about a whole bunch of topics. They talked about her start in West Coast Swing, her background in music, and her experience preparing to compete at the Open. Larisa told her story of moving up through the ranks to become a Champion-level dancer, and what she believes it takes to earn your spot at the top. She also shared her thoughts on the new WSDC pathway from All Star to Champion, and why she thinks it may not be a good idea. They also discussed her start as a DJ, and how she approaches DJing for both social dancing and competition. Larisa was open, thoughtful, and humble and shared lots of her own reflections and insights. Take a listen and learn from one of the best! footnotesTony Schubert & Larisa Tingle - Classic Division, US Open 2019

As our community has grown in recent years, it has attracted many younger dancers - a demographic shift that has altered the dynamic of our scene. The previous generation of dancers is getting older in an increasingly younger scene, and in addition to facing changes in their own bodies, they often find themselves facing changes in their relationship with the dance. To better understand what it's like to age and mature in our dance community, Eric sat down with two good friends - Tom Paderna (a previous guest of the show) and Gail Jacobson (not related to Eric) - to chat about their stories and experiences. They shared some of their physical limitations and how those affect their social dancing and competitive experiences. They talked about how the community has changed over the years and how their own roles have changed as a result. They chatted about ageism in both social dancing and competition, and they discussed the Masters division and some proposed changes to that division. And finally they shared some thoughts on how we all can create a community that is more welcoming and inclusive of older dancers. Take a listen and broaden your own understanding of what your fellow dancers are experiencing. footnotesMastery of SwingImplicit Assessment Test

In the last couple of years, there has been a renewed interest in dancing to classic swing music, in large part due to two dancers whose improvisational demos have gone viral on social media. Torri and Maxime Zzaoui embody grace, elegance, and the beauty of swing, and their videos capture their musicality, their playfulness, and their love of the dance. Eric sat down with these two talented, kind, funny, and down-to-earth champions to discuss their backgrounds, their success, and their personal stories. Torri shared her experiences working with Brennar and Benji, and winning Classic and Showcase at the Open in the same year. Maxime talked about his training, why France has some incredible dancing, and his own teaching philosophy. They shared the story behind the now-famous dance at WOTP (where they danced to "Nice 'N' Easy" by Frank Sinatra) and what they think about how popular it was. They also spoke candidly about how they develop themselves, the brand they've created, and how their brand sets others' expectations. And of course, they told the story of how they met, became a couple, and formed their partnership. Listen to this heartwarming conversation with two of the most beloved, charming, and amazing dancers and people. footnotesMaxime and TorriTorri Smith & Brennar Goree - Classic Division, US Open 2010Torri Smith & Benji Schwimmer - Showcase Division, US Open 2010Maxime Zzaoui & Virginie Perga - Classic Division, US Open 2012Maxime & Torri Zzaoui - WOTP 2018Maxime & Torri Zzaoui - Norway Westie Fest 2017Maxime & Torri Zzaoui - Budafest 2019Maxime & Torri Zzaoui - Budafest 2020

The new year is a time for reflection, taking stock, and thinking about what's ahead. So for this first episode of the year, Eric sat down with Courtney Adair to talk about her own challenges, growth, and self-development. It was a very personal and honest discussion, and she was very open and real. She talked about her first experience with meditation, why it impacted her so greatly, and how in some ways it led her to dance. She discussed her appreciation of yoga, her journey to get certified as a yoga instructor, and how yoga influenced her as a dancer and teacher. Courtney shared some of her personal struggles, how she learned to embrace some aspects of herself, and how she supports others on their personal journeys, particularly women in our community. Full of wisdom and insights, this is a great conversation to get you thinking about your own personal development in the year ahead. footnotesCourtney Adair and Sean McKeeverThe War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles by Steven PressfieldChoreo CampWestie Goddess Retreat

We're back! Sort of. I was planning on relaunching the show in January but how could we not do an episode about the most prestigious event in our dance world? The Open is the most prominent stage for our dance - a showcase of some of our greatest talent and a look at the state of our dance today. So I sat down with a friend of the show, Christopher Dumond, to chat about the Open, what happened there, and what it all means for our dance. We talked about his own experience competing there, the other routines in Classic and Showcase, the judging and results, and yes, we chatted about swing content. We also discussed some of the other aspects of the Open, from the opening ceremonies ("God Bless the USA"?) to the presentations (congrats, Jordan and Tatiana!) to the post-division interviews (oy vey...). So settle in and enjoy this special, super-sized episode about one special, super-sized event.

Many of us at one time or another have known the feeling of being "on the outside." Whether it's in our local community or at weekend conventions, it can be hard to find a group of friends to hang out with - and it can be even harder when there are others who seem to have it all. In this episode, we chat about our own experiences being outsiders. We start with a discussion of the "cool kids," our own feelings about not being one of the "cool kids," and what it's like to be "drifters" instead. We chat about our social anxieties, how our upbringing has shaped who we are, and how social media influences our experiences in the dance world. We also look at how being on top isn't all it's cracked up to be and how being on top isn't the be-all end-all of social dancing. This conversation is for anyone who's ever felt alone, out-of-place, or like an outsider in our dance community (...and also those who haven't). footnotesLast Child in the Woods - Richard LouvThe Mind-Gut Connection - Emeran Mayer

We love a good conversation with friends. So for our latest live show at Boogie by the Bay, we teamed up with the hosts of "Wine Coast Swing," Brandi Guild and Robert Royston, to chat, laugh, and drink wine! In this episode, we talk about Boogie by the Bay and what makes it special. We talk about the challenges of dealing with rejection and defeat. We discuss how Robert, Brandi, and Deborah have stayed relevant for so long. And we invited Dr. Martha Stark to come chat for a bit about her work on neuroplasticity and intentionality. This one is full of personal stories, vulnerability, and lots of camaraderie. footnotes Wine Coast Swing Those Who Can Do, Can't Teach by Adam Grant

We always have a great time when we get together with our audience, and our latest live show was no exception. We sat down with the fun and funny Christopher Dumond to chat about his background in dance, his rise to the champion level, and his own ups and downs in the dance world. He shared his experience with - and his passion for - music and audio production and how it has influenced his dancing. And he shared his views of the changes the US Open is making to judging this year, as well as his thoughts on routines in general. Then, we invited an audience member to play a game where we learned even more about Chris. Listen and enjoy! footnotes Christopher Dumond

Culture can be difficult to recognize or even define, and yet it permeates and shapes the dynamic of any group of people that interacts regularly. In our global West Coast Swing community, we have a culture - and many subcultures - that dictate how we think, feel, and act. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Jennifer Parlamis, Associate Professor at the University of San Francisco School of Management, to talk about organizational culture more broadly and our dance community culture more specifically. The topic is a big one to chew on in one hour, but we look at some of the aspects that define who we are as a community, how leaders and influencers shape our culture, and what steps we might take to create the culture we want to see. It's a heady and robust conversation, but chock full of interesting ideas that hopefully get us talking more about this topic. footnotesDr. Jennifer ParlamisBurke-Litwin model of organizational changeEdgar Schein on culture (blog post)Edgar Schein on culture (video interview)Everybody's Free To Wear Sunscreen (YouTube)

Can you believe it's been one year since we released our first episode? To celebrate the occasion, we sat down to reflect upon our first year making this podcast. We discussed our favorite episodes, the challenges of making the show, and what we've learned (or not) from doing the show. We also looked ahead at the guests we hope to sit down with and the kinds of episodes we hope to bring you in the coming year. Thank you all for listening, sharing your thoughts, and joining in the conversation with us and others - we wouldn't be here without you. Here's to another year of connecting and conversing! footnotesWhy you probably hate the sound of your own voice - Washington Post

In the second part of our conversation about judging, we chat with Gary Jobst about his views of the World Swing Dance Council and how it has affected competitions. We also asked him what he thinks of the US Open, the changes they're making to judging this year, and the general topic of judging swing content. He talked with us about his judge training program and how he plans to refocus it now that he has sole ownership. Gary and Deborah debate some of the practicalities of judging and we discuss the influence of the music on our dance. And then Gary shared some of his tips for competitors from his competitors' workshop. Listen for some heated discussion, a plethora of ideas, and lots of wisdom and insights. footnotesGary Jobst

When it comes to competitions, the fate of contestants lies in the hands of the judges. And when it comes to judging, few are as experienced and qualified as Gary Jobst. In the first of this two-part episode, we sat down with Gary to discuss his own background and how he got started as a judge and chief judge. We asked him what he thinks makes for a good West Coast Swing judge and what the role of a chief judge is. He talked about how he works with event directors as a chief judge and how he likes to put together a judging panel. We then asked him about different competition formats, which ones he prefers, and how they can affect the outcomes of the competition. Take a listen and learn more from this knowledgable, experienced, and down-to-earth guy! footnotesGary Jobst

In the second part of our conversation with legendary swing dancer Sylvia Sykes, we chat with her about her influences, how Lindy and Balboa dancers honor their history, and how they view West Coast Swing. We asked her about the issues of cultural appropriation in the Lindy community and how the global expansion of West Coast Swing resembles that of Lindy Hop. She shared why she's not in the West Coast Swing community anymore, her views of judging swing, and her thoughts on changing the name of Jack & Jill competitions. We also discussed the struggles of swing dances to "find their soul" and how other swing dances have resolved some of those issues. It's a very real, very honest, and very educational conversation with one of the best! footnotesSylvia Sykes

If you want to get your facts straight, you go to the source. Well, in this episode, we spoke with living swing legend Sylvia Sykes to learn more about her experience, her perspective, and the history of swing. She chatted with us about how she got into swing dancing as a teenager, how she ended up on the television show Shebang, and how she met famous lindy hopper Dean Collins. She shared what if felt like to dance with Dean, what he taught her about swing and following, and what he was like as a person. We asked her about Balboa, SoCal Swing, and how West Coast Swing fits into the family of swing dances (or doesn't). We discussed her partnership with Ramiro Gonzalez, their famous win at the US Open, and of course, we asked Sylvia what makes swing "swing." There's a lot to learn in this rich and informative discussion. footnotesSylvia SykesShebangDean Collins - Let's Make Music (1941)Maxie Dorf & Sylvia Sykes - BalboaWillie Desatoff & Ann Mills - BalboaShirley Fietsem & Tom BootsRamiro Gonzalez & Sylvia Sykes - US Open 1995

It's always amazing to see young talent skyrocket and flourish in our dance world, and in recent years, Alyssa Glanville has been one of those bright, shining stars. In this episode, we sat down with this charming, dynamic, and down-to-earth champion to talk about her background, her influences, and how she developed herself into a successful champion. She shared her thoughts on teaching and judging the dance, her partnership with John Kirkconnell, and becoming more of a solo professional. We asked her what it's like to live the traveling professional lifestyle, and what her assessment is of dancing around the world. And we asked her lots of questions about how she uses social media to promote herself, her love of music, and her passion for movement. Take a listen and be inspired by this thoughtful, passionate, and positive champion! footnotesAlyssa Glanville on InstagramAlyssa's DJ.Lyssten.Up on InstagramAlyssa's Spotify accountUrban Dance Camp on YouTube

Known for his energy, flair, and big heart, Barry Jones has had a long and successful career in West Coast Swing. In this episode, we chat with this US Open champion about his origins in West Coast Swing, his time competing in Showcase with Judy Ford and Kellese Key, and what he likes to see in a swing routine. He talked with us about the impact of his own routines, competing at the US Open, and why he no longer judges. We asked him about his experience developing local dance communities, his views of WSDC and NASDE, and his opinion of current happenings in the swing dance community. He told us why he's no longer on the circuit and imparted his own wisdom about competing and the importance of originality in our dance. This is a discussion with one of the greats that's full of warmth and wisdom. footnotesBarry Jones's post about judgingDepeche Mode - People are People

When it comes to understanding the history of our dance, few people bring a breadth and depth of knowledge like Sonny Watson. A dancer, teacher, judge, and historian who has been in our community for decades, he's experienced the dance and its many ups and downs firsthand. In this episode, we sat down with Sonny to chat about his own journey into the dance, who influenced him when he started, and how he got involved in the Southern California community. We asked him to share a bit about Kenny Wetzel and his role as an emcee, and what makes Southern California such a hotspot of swing dancing. He chatted at length with us about his views on adjudicating swing content, the changes being made by The Open, and how it all ties to NASDE. And he shared his own opinions of the swing community today, the role of WSDC, and why he's no longer active on the national circuit. Enjoy this informative, insightful, and honest conversation with one of the most knowledgeable people in our community. footnotesstreetswing.com

In the second part of our conversation with champion Shag dancers Leann and Michael Norris, we talk about a variety of topics. We begin with a discussion of Michael's US Open-winning routine with Kellese Key and how they developed their choreography. They talked with us about taking over Grand Nationals from Charlie Womble and Jackie McGee, the challenges of running the event, and their reflections on honoring the event's history for its 25th anniversary. We asked them how the Shag community respects their history, what it looks like when Shag evolves, and how West Coast Swing has influenced their dance. And we got a chance to ask them about what they hope Shag will adopt from West Coast Swing, as well as what they hope their own legacy will be. It's a conversation that's as sweet, insightful, down-to-earth, and charming as our two guests! footnotesMichael and Leann NorrisUSA Grand Nationals Dance ChampionshipMichael Norris & Kellese Key - GNDC 2007Michael Norris & Kellese Key - US Open 2007Michael Norris & Kellese Key - practicing 83Michael Norris & Kellese Key - GNDC 2009Michael & LeAnn Norris - GNDC 2019Robert Cordoba & Deborah Székely - GNDC 2019Charlie Womble & Jackie McGee - US Open 1995

Sure, this is a podcast about West Coast Swing, but our dance has been greatly influenced by our sister swing dances. So we sat down with LeAnn and Michael Norris - several-time Carolina Shag champions, the Event Directors of USA Grand Nationals Dance Championship, and two of the nicest people around - to learn more about another swing dance community and its crossover with our own. In the first of two episodes with LeAnn and Michael, we ask them about Carolina Shag, what it is as a dance, and who the most influential people have been in their dance community. We chatted with them about their own beginnings as (very) young dancers, how they met, and how they became partners - both on the dance floor and off. And they shared their views of the US Open, what it was like to be successful at such a young age, and why they decided to pursue careers outside of dance. Listen to their heartwarming stories and discover a different world of swing dancing! footnotesLeAnn & Michael NorrisMichael Norris & Ginger Pickerel - US Open 1998Michael Norris & Ginger Pickerel - US Open 1999

We love opportunities to engage with our audience, so we figured it was time to answer more of your questions - and reply to the conversations on social media. So we begin this episode with our initial reactions to the latest news from the US Open (announced the morning we recorded) about judging swing content. Then we dive into your questions about how to become a champion, developing different skills, and even wearing orthotics. We also answered questions about enforcing the point system, judging leaders in competitions, and finding a partner for routines and practice. We end by discussing the importance of holistic training for improving your dance, and knowing the essence of the dance to allow it to evolve in response to regional variations. We hope you enjoy listening as much as we enjoyed getting your questions! footnotesUS Open Swing Content Judges Role descriptionBrandi Guild on defining West Coast SwingSharlot Bott on defining West Coast SwingUpdate: US Open's response to feedback on social media

With over three decades of experience in West Coast Swing, Sharlot Bott is a fount of knowledge and wisdom. Not only has she successfully competed with some of the best leaders in the history of the dance, but she has shaped the dance in her own right, and she has been an inspiration for so many of our top professionals today. We were privileged enough to chat with this icon of swing about her origins in the dance, the people who influenced her most, and how she developed her timeless style. She talked with us about her partnerships with Lance Shermoen and her late husband Wayne Bott, and how these two great men have influenced our dance. We asked about her opinion of the dance today, the role of WSDC, swing content, and how she approaches judging. She also shared her thoughts on her changing role in our community and what she hopes her legacy will be. Get to know this living legend and learn from her wealth of experience! footnotessharlotbott.comSharlot's Statement of West Coast Swing

We've talked before about the joys and challenges we face along our dance journeys. From the struggles of learning to dance to navigating the social structures of our community to disappointment in competitions, we often experience a range of highs and lows. And sometimes, for a whole host of reasons, we just lose our passion for dancing. In this episode, we talk about our current feelings towards dance. Eric, fresh off a two-week vacation, shares his feelings of apathy and ennui towards dance, and Deborah shares her own frustrations and experiences with the dance world. We discuss our observations about the ups and downs in dancing, the importance of our lives outside of dance, and the different ways we recharge and rejuvenate so we can continue to enjoy dancing. It's a personal and introspective episode that hopefully helps some others facing similar experiences. footnotesShinrin-yokuDaniel Goleman - Emotional IntelligenceThe American President - Leadership

What's in a name? The All Star division is the top division below our champions, and it is continually growing and evolving. In this episode, we chat about what it means to be an All Star Level dancer. We discuss how the division has progressed over the years, what we expect and want to see, and what we like and don't like in the current cohort of competitors. Whether you're an All Star, an aspiring All Star, or just someone curious about different levels of dancing, take a listen and see if you agree.

Disappointment is the sadness or displeasure caused by unfulfilled hopes or expectations, and let's be honest: we've all experienced some disappointment in the dance world. Or frustration. Or demotivation. Or a struggle of some kind. In this episode, we sit down once again with Dr. Divy Ravindranath to discuss how our expectations throughout our dance journeys affect our happiness, our feelings and attitudes about dance, and our behaviors towards others. We begin with a discussion about entitlement - what it is, how it works, and how it plays out in our dance world - before jumping to lots of topics about how we perceive our dance experiences. We chat about competitions, how our perception of good dancing changes as we improve, and the challenges of getting more experienced dancers to ask new people to dance. It's a broad discussion of a variety of topics with a little something for everyone to enjoy. footnotesDunning-Kruger EffectInside Out and Neuroscience

In the second part of our conversation with these two legends, we get a deeper look at their careers and their influence over the global dance community. They shared their views of how the dance has spread globally and their role in making that happen. They talked about how they grounded their routines in West Coast Swing while also pushing the dance and their own creativity. We asked them whether they are mindful of their dancing when they compete, knowing that so many people are looking to them as examples of the dance. We got into a discussion about knowing your history, understanding the past, and how it informs their teaching today. And finally, they told us the story of how they decided to retire from the Classic division, and where they have been going with their careers since. Lots of honest, heartfelt reflections from two of the greatest dancers of our time. footnotesJordan Frisbee & Tatiana MollmanJordan Frisbee & Tatiana Mollman - Viva La VidaJordan Frisbee & Tatiana Mollman - Stole the ShowKyle Redd & Sarah Vann Drake - Groove is in the HeartRobert Cordoba & Kellese Key - Phantom of the OperaRamiro Gonzalez and Sylvia Sykes - Street Swing - US Open 1995Sonny Watson's StreetSwing.com

There is no one in our dance world today who is more accomplished, influential, and iconic than Tatiana Mollmann and Jordan Frisbee. And while we may get the chance to attend one of their workshops, see them perform, or even take a private lesson with them, we don't often get to hang out and chat with them about their experiences and their views. In this episode, we sit down with the 11-time US Open Classic Division Champions to discuss their beginnings in West Coast Swing, their role models and influences, and their reflections on what has made their partnership so successful. They opened up to us about moving forward together after their romantic relationship ended, and what it has been like for them to have romantic relationships while working as dance professionals. We asked them about their daily life and routines, how they train and improve, and how they faced different challenges in their professional and personal lives. Listen to their stories and get to know these legends in a whole new way! footnotesJordan Frisbee & Tatiana MollmannJordan Frisbee & Olivia Dasso - US Open 1995Parker Dearborn & Tatiana Mollmann - US Open 1996

While we were at Easter Swing in Seattle, we had the chance to chat with an accomplished dancer, teacher, judge, and performer: the lovely Katie Schneider. We asked her about her experience competing in the Showcase division with Jim Minty, including how they formed their partnership and how they prepared their routines. She shared her thoughts on Showcase routines today and how she judges routine divisions. We got into a discussion of music and how it influences the dance, how the community has evolved in Seattle, and how local swing clubs need to think about bringing in the next generation. She also talked to us about her involvement in Project Swing and how she approaches teaching the program at Century Ballroom. It's a delightful and thoughtful conversation with a delightful and thoughtful guest!

In the second part of our conversation with Sarah and Kyle, we talked about a wide range of topics. Sarah shared some of her feelings about the new generation of professionals. We talked about how they approach running SwingCouver, how dancers can support events so they can pay their staff, and a new event that Sarah and Kyle are putting together for next year. They told us the stories behind some of our favorite routines, how they approach choreography, and what they think of the routines currently on the circuit. And we chatted about the dance today, where it's going, and their excitement and their concerns. Sit back, relax, and enjoy this open, honest conversation with two of our most experienced and accomplished professionals. footnotesKyle Redd & Sarah Vann DrakeMario Robau & Kellese Key - Alva's Baby BluesRobert Cordoba & Melanie Roberts - How Long Can A Fool Go WrongWayne & Sharlot Bott - Johnny B. GoodeKyle Redd & Sarah Vann Drake - How Long Can A Fool Go WrongKyle Redd & Sarah Vann Drake - Johnny B. GoodeKyle Redd & Sarah Vann Drake - 9 to 5Kyle Redd & Sarah Vann Drake - You & I BothRobert Cordoba & Deborah Székely - Is It A Crime (Sadé)

What can we say about two of the most successful and influential dancers in West Coast Swing that would do them justice? In the first part of this two-part conversation, we sit down with two of the greatest dancers, teachers, and performers in our dance, Sarah Vann Drake and Kyle Redd. We asked them about how they got started in the dance, how they met and formed their partnership, and who influenced them most. They shared some of their personal experiences and how those shaped their careers and who they are today. Plus, we got to hear how they developed their brand, why they teach the sugar push the way they do, and what they think of where the dance is heading today. Listen and enjoy this open and honest conversation with two of the best. footnoteKyle Redd and Sarah Vann DrakeJason Colacino & Sarah Vann - Young America 1994Kyle Redd & Sarah Vann Drake - Groove is in the Heart

We talk a lot about our dance in the United States, but the community has rapidly expanded around the globe in recent years. To talk about how the dance has grown in different countries, we invited a man who spends his time building dance communities in a plethora of countries, Chuck Brown. Joining us from a café while he takes a brief break from his travels, Chuck spoke to us about his experience advising community leaders and event directors in all parts of the world. We asked him about his views of the dance in different regions, why he believes West Coast Swing catches on differently in different places, and how he helps to promote the benefits of coming together around competitive events. He shared his advice for event directors, his beliefs about what it takes to build community, and what he's learned about dancing from his years of experience. Take a listen and deepen your understanding of our dance with a more global perspective.

In the second part of our conversation with Hieu Le, Jesse Lopez, and Kyle LaPatin, we discuss the challenges in our communities around getting people to dance with each other - and some of the different ways we have tried to tackle them. We talk about our experiences with the physical space and how that can encourage people to mix and mingle - or divide them. Hieu shared his (now not-so-covert) operation in his community to help create an inclusive environment. Jesse and Kyle talked about how they teach people to make the most of dancing with a variety of skill levels. And we brainstormed ways to reach the people in our communities who choose not to dance with people outside their circle of friends. It's a rich discussion full of great ideas for any community member! footnotesSwingesota - Twin Cities, MinnesotaEvolve Your Dance - Kansas City, KansasDancing Feats - Boston, Massachusetts

For most of us, our entry into the dance world - and the place where we spend the most time dancing, learning, and connecting with others - is in our local dance community. To discuss some of the issues around local dance communities and what it takes to build, grow, and run a community, we sat down with three community organizers - Hieu Le of Swingesota, Jesse Lopez of Evolve Your Dance, and Kyle LaPatin of Dancing Feats. In the first part of this two-part conversation, they tell us about how their communities got started, how they became community leaders, and how they approach running their venues. We also discussed some of the things that work well for them in building their communities and some of the challenges they face. It's a great discussion for anyone and everyone who is involved in a local dance community! footnotesSwingesota - Twin Cities, MinnesotaEvolve Your Dance - Kansas City, KansasDancing Feats - Boston, Massachusetts

After six months of doing the show, we wanted to thank you all for listening by answering some questions you've sent us. In this mailbag episode, we share how we met, became friends, and started this show. Then we discuss leading and following during phrase changes, how to reconcile when teachers say different things, and how to get the most out of classes and private lessons. We were asked what we think of "Modern Swing," what we think is missing from the West Coast Swing community, and how we cope with the challenging parts of our dance journeys. And, just for fun, we end with a discussion of which superheroes our top champions would be. (Who do you think Deborah would be?)

There's nothing like a good conversation between friends. That's how this whole show got started, after all. And in this episode, we go back to that idea and share with you one of our own conversations about all things swing. We talk about being adaptive to our partners, having better social dances, and learning to communicate better in our dancing. We discuss the dancer's journey, the importance of the essential skills of partner dancing, and how to be a better student in class. And we look at how to empower and enable followers by changing the way we teach the dance. It's a grab bag of subjects, a potpourri of topics, and a pastiche of ideas for anyone and everyone to enjoy.

Not many people can say they have been a dancer, a competitor, an event director, and a DJ, but Cher Peadon has succeeded at all four. In this episode, we chatted with this experienced professional, mentor to so many DJs, and mom to so many champion dancers (figuratively and literally - Kellese Key is her daughter). We asked about how she got started in West Coast Swing, her advice to aspiring DJs, and why she ended America's Classic Championships after so many years. She shared her views of the dance today, her thoughts on how NASDE has changed, and her opinions of WSDC and its dominance over our scene. Listen to some real talk with some real heart from a woman with real experience.

From ballet to ballroom, country to swing, Carrie Lucas has an extensive and diverse array of dance experience. In this episode, we sat down with the charming and talented Carrie to discuss her early days in country and with Arthur Murray, her views of the dance, her thoughts on proper technique, and how she approaches judging. And since she's such a successful Masters-level competitor, we asked her what she thinks about the Masters division, including how older dancers can be more successful in competition, how she feels about splitting it into different levels, and how events - and our community at large - can be more welcoming to older dancers.

In our second live show, we sit down with a few guests to share stories, insights, and laughs. We first invited the Event Co-Directors of Rose City Swing, Babak Shakeri and Trudy Thatcher, to tell us about their experience creating, running, and developing the event. Then we were joined by the inimitable Ben Morris to discuss his start in dance, how his background in lindy hop influenced his dancing, and how he thinks about creating a dance. Afterwards, audience members asked questions about leading and following, how to approach a private lesson, and the story of The Super Jews of Swing. As with any late night conversation, things got a little silly, a little off-topic, and a little raucous, but good times were had by all. footnotesMinnie's Moochers - Love Me or Leave MeBen Morris and Carla Heiney - US Open 2006Parker Dearborn and Tatiana Mollman - US Open 1996George Carlin - StuffGeorge Carlin - Ten CommandmentsRed vs BlueThe Super Jews of Swing - Boogie by the Bay 2005The Super Jews of Swing - Boogie by the Bay 2006The Super Jews of Swing - Lindy and Party 2009The Super Jews of Swing - Boogie by the Bay 2010

At the heart of our dance is partnership - the interaction, collaboration, and relationship between leader and follower. In this episode, we chat about what leading and following are, how they work together, and what we want (and don't want) in a partner. We talk about partnership in the context of dancing to the music, building trust, and competing. Plus, we discuss our pet peeves, how the nature of partnership in our dance has changed over the years, and how we each teach people to become better leaders and followers. Take a listen and deepen your own understanding of this thing we call "partnership." footnotesRachel makes a trifle - FriendsGeorge and the fire - Seinfeld

In this episode, we sit down with not one but two champion dancers and all-around awesome people, Courtney Adair and Sean McKeever! We talked with them about their start in West Coast Swing, how they met and formed their partnership, and how they became dance professionals. We chatted about how they built their careers, how they continually develop themselves, and what they think of dancers making a name for themselves in a social media world. They also shared with us the challenges they've had to face as dance professionals, and the different seeds they're sowing to see what's next for them. Listen and learn from these two kind, thoughtful, passionate, and down-to-earth dancers. footnotesKyle Redd & Sarah Vann Drake - 9 to 5Jordan Frisbee & Tatiana Mollman - Pump ItMichael Kielbasa & Jen Deluca - MusicArjay Centeno & Melissa Rutz - Sixty Minute Man/LucilleCourtney Adair & Felix Berghäll - CSC 2017