In this episode of The Brainy Ballerina Podcast, I’m joined by choreographer, educator, and former professional dancer Autumn Eckman for a thoughtful conversation about building a long, sustainable career in dance.

From leaving home at a young age to embracing leadership, choreography, and academia, Autumn shares how curiosity and collaboration have shaped her path, and why a dance career doesn’t have to follow just one track to be successful.

Key Points in this Episode:

• Why Autumn shifted from Houston Ballet Academy toward contemporary and jazz-focused work
• How Autumn transitioned into choreography, teaching, and artistic leadership while still performing
• The impact collaborating with composers has had on her choreographic career
• How preparation and openness coexist in the studio
• What led Autumn to pursue her MFA later in her career, and how academia offers a new lens on dance, research, and creativity
• Listening to inner cues and values when deciding to change direction

Connect with Autumn:

WEBSITE: https://www.autumneckman.com/

INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/autumn__eckman

Links and Resources:

1-1 Career Mentoring: book your complimentary career call

Let’s connect!

My WEBSITE: thebrainyballerina.com

INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/thebrainyballerina

Questions/comments? Email me at [email protected]