Episode Summary:

Galit Friedlander, a multi-talented professional dancer, choreographer, coach, and personal trainer. Galit shares her inspiring journey from growing up in New York City to becoming a successful industry professional. She discusses the challenges of pursuing a dance career, the importance of mental and physical fitness, and how to balance auditioning with training. Galit also talks about the value of cross-training for dancers, emphasizing that just like any athlete, dancers need to strengthen their bodies outside of dance to avoid injury and improve performance. 

She highlights her passion for teaching and choreographing, specifically in hip hop and street styles, and gives valuable tips for dancers on how to approach auditions, cultivate relationships in the industry, and stay grounded in their unique self. The episode wraps up with Galit sharing her expertise on nutrition and fitness, offering practical advice for dancers who are constantly on the go. This episode is packed with insights on how to build a sustainable and successful dance career through hard work, continual learning, and self-care.

Show Notes:

• (0:00) Introduction to Galit Friedlander

• (2:00) Galit’s early dance journey and how she reconnected with dance at 12

• (5:30) Transitioning from theater to dance and attending USC for a degree

• (9:00) The lack of a clear roadmap for becoming a professional dancer in LA

• (12:00) The importance of learning through experiences and the inspiration behind her podcast

• (15:00) Lessons learned: why you’re never too old to be a dancer

• (18:00) The value of taking classes vs. auditioning and finding the balance

• (21:00) The pressure of fitting a certain “look” and staying true to your authentic self

• (25:00) Galit’s focus on fitness and cross-training for dancers to prevent injury and improve performance

• (28:00) How fitness plays a key role in a dancer’s longevity and ability to book work

• (32:00) The role of mindset in achieving success as a dancer

• (35:00) Advice for dancers on how to approach auditions and the importance of being yourself

• (38:00) Galit’s experiences choreographing for the WNBA’s LA Sparks and dancing for Pharrell

• (42:00) The significance of building relationships and networking in the dance industry

• (45:00) Tips for balancing dance, fitness, and personal health for optimal performance

• (50:00) Closing advice: embrace what makes you unique and continue learning and growing in your journey

Biography:

Galit Friedlander is a professional dancer, choreographer, coach, and host of the popular podcast DanceSpeak.

In her 17+ years in the industry, Galit has choreographed for the musical artist Prince and the WNBA’s LA Sparks.

She has danced on projects for Pharell and MC Lyte. Galit is also a recurring host for the Doctors 4 Dancers online talk series. 

Galit’s mission is to expand the knowledge and untapped gifts of others through dance, exercise, and intentional choreography to empower them to own their essence and boost their artistry in and out of this dance space.

Connect on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/gogalit

https://www.facebook.com/galit.friedlander

Website

https://www.gogalit.com/