Episode Summary: 

Kim McSwain, a passionate dancer and teacher with a career spanning from her early beginnings to founding her own dance agency. Kim began dance at age three, developing a strong foundation through intensive ballet training and competitive tap. At age 24, she moved to Los Angeles, navigating financial struggles while working multiple jobs to support her career. Her breakthrough came with high-profile projects for artists like Britney Spears and Michael Jackson. Eventually, Kim transitioned to teaching, which she found deeply fulfilling, especially in inspiring young dancers.

Kim discusses her work with KM Agency, which includes dance programs like The Movement and Blake Stanley Technique, designed to elevate studio standards and support dancers' growth. Her dedication has led her business to success, especially by supporting dance studios recovering post-COVID. Kim emphasizes that proper training for teachers is essential for the industry’s future.

Throughout the episode, Kim advises dancers to pursue their passion, monetize their skills, and persist through challenges. She emphasizes the long-term potential of a dance career, countering the notion that it’s short-lived. During a Q&A, Kim answers questions on breaking into the industry, finding teaching roles, and handling transitions from studio to professional life.

Show Notes:

Biography:

From an early age, Kim's passion for dance was undeniable. Beginning her training at the tender age of three, she dove into the world of dance with a focus that belied her years. By eight, Kim was dedicating thirty hours a week to ballet, a testament to her dedication and love for the art. Her talent was unmistakable, leading her to clinch third place nationally at a prestigious tap event by the age of twelve, an event sponsored by the renowned tap virtuoso, Gregory Hines. Hines, struck by Kim's exceptional skill, personally visited her studio in Dallas to offer a private lesson, a rare honor that highlighted her early promise.

As Kim turned 24, her journey took her to the vibrant city of Los Angeles. There, her career flourished as she found herself sharing stages and film sets with icons such as Britney Spears, N’Sync, Michael Jackson, Jennifer Lopez, and Ben Affleck. Despite her success in the performance world, Kim felt a compelling draw towards education, choosing to channel her energies into nurturing the next generation of dancers.

Kim's teaching career began with Adrenaline on the convention circuit, quickly escalating to her joining the ranks of JUMP, the world's largest dance convention. Over six years, Kim imparted her knowledge in a variety of styles, from ballet to hip-hop, to thousands of eager students weekly. Her journey continued as she took on the role of Children’s Director at NUVO, focusing on technical excellence and personal growth, earning acclaim for her ability to inspire not just outstanding performers, but outstanding individuals.

Kim's contributions to dance education have been celebrated in notable publications such as Dance Media and Dance Teacher Magazine. Beyond the convention circuit, Kim has lent her expertise as a coach for the DANCE STUDIO OWNERS ASSOCIATION, further cementing her role as a pivotal figure in the dance community.

In a bold move, Kim shifted her focus to the KM Agency, home to the transformative Changing Lives program, and now owns 5 companies: THE MOVEMENT, THE MOMENT, THE METHOD, and CLEAN & CRITIQUE, and BLAKE STANLEY TECHNIQUE. 

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