A Dancer's Mindset

A Dancer's Mindset

By Ballet with IsabellaEducationSelf-Improvement
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A Dancer's Mindset episodes

  • Ep. 154 Precious Adams: " It's impossible to be in shape, all year round!"

    Hey Everyone,

    We are back with another great interviewIn this inspiring conversation, I sit down with Precious Adams, First Soloist with English National Ballet, to talk about the powerful mindset shifts that have shaped her journey on her way to the top of her profession. Precious opens up about:💡 Her rise through the ranks at ENB and the lessons learned along the way🧠 How her mindset evolved to embrace confidence, resilience, and self-belief🥗 Why dieting doesn’t serve dancers as athletes — and how she built a healthier, more sustainable relationship with food and body image⚖️ The importance of balance on the path to success — both physically and mentally, how it's impossible to be in shape all year round. 🌟 Why there’s room for all of us to succeed in the ballet worldIf you’ve ever struggled with perfectionism, body image, or the pressure to maintain “peak shape” all year round, this conversation will bring clarity, hope, and practical advice to help you thrive both on and off the stage.🎧 Listen now to discover how Precious redefined success on her own terms — and how you can, too.-------✨ Welcome to Ballet With Isabella! ✨https://balletwithisabella.comBallet With Isabella (BWI) is your go-to online training platform for dancers of all levels! Whether you’re a beginner, pre-professional, or pro, we help you refine your technique, build strength, and boost confidence all with structured training that delivers real results. We are a community of go getters! 💖 What You’ll Find Here:✅ Expert-led ballet classes & courses✅ On-demand classes and courses to watch wherever you are. ✅ Structured Plans ✅ Flexibility & strength workouts for dancers✅ Mindset coaching✅ Live Zoom classes for Members ( recorded to watch later) ✅ Private coaching & personalized plans to smash your goals ✅ Intensives worldwide to work with isabella face to face.💡 Join Our Membership!🔹 Corps – Recorded classes + Live Members Classes🔹 Soloist – Live Classes + all on-demand classes & courses & plans🔹 Principal – Everything + a custom plan every 8 weeks🎙️ Listen to Our Podcast! A Dancer’s Mindset (Co-hosted by Suvi Honkanen) – interviews, training tips, and mental strategies to help you succeed in ballet.👩‍🏫 About IsabellaIsabella is a graduate of vaganova, pro ballet dancer and professional ballet coach. Founder of BWI, she beleives everyone should have the best. Helping dancers worldwide reach their full potential through expert training & mindset coaching.🔗 Start Training Today! → https://balletwithisabella.com/select-a-plan/✨ Subscribe & turn on notifications for new ballet content every week! 💃🩰--------

    1 hr 23 min
  • Ep.153 Working hard but being overlooked?

    Hey Everyone,

    In this episode of A Dancer’s Mindset, we dive into a topic that so many dancers face but rarely talk about—what to do when you don’t get instant recognition. In a world that often praises quick results, it’s easy to feel disheartened if your hard work doesn’t pay off right away.

    But here’s the truth: instant gratification isn’t the goal. Growth in ballet (and in life) comes from consistency, patience, and resilience. I’ll share mindset shifts, practical tips, and encouragement to help you stay motivated and focused on your journey, even when external validation feels far away.

    Because remember—you’re not dancing for applause, you’re dancing for progress and growth

    ------


    Book an Intensive with Isabella & the BWI Team

    https://buytickets.at/balletwithisabella/1801743

    ✨ Ready to go deeper? Here’s how we can train together at Ballet With Isabella:

    • 🎓 Explore our full library of on-demand ballet classes and courses: https://balletwithisabella.com/studio/

    • 💪 Get structured training with our BWI Plans—step-by-step programs that remove decision paralysis: 

      https://balletwithisabella.com/select-a-plan/

    • 👯‍♀️ Join our membership tiers for every level of dancer: 

      https://balletwithisabella.com/select-a-plan/

    • 🎥 Want live coaching? Check out our live classes and workshops: https://balletwithisabella.com/member-live-classes/


    • 🔑 And if you’re ready for the ultimate support system, discover our Principal Membership—a high-level, all-access pass that includes a bespoke training plan every 8 weeks: balletwithisabella.com/principal

    Wherever you are on your ballet journey, we’ve created tools, classes, and support to help you unlock your full potential. Come and see why we’re called your secret weapon.

    28 min
  • Ep. 153 Madeline Woo – Leaps of Faith: From Ballet Stage to Creative Studio

    Hello Everyone,

    In this inspiring episode of A Dancer’s Mindset, Isabella sits down with the incredible Madeline Woo—a powerhouse on stage, online, and now in the design world. From her journey to San Francisco Ballet to her meteoric rise on social media, Madeline shares the determination, artistry, and authenticity that have made her a role model for dancers worldwide.

    We dive into the story behind her gravity-defying jump technique (yes, she spills her training secrets), how she’s navigated the pressures of professional ballet, and what it takes to stand out both in the studio and in the ever-changing digital landscape.

    Now embarking on an exciting new chapter as the founder of her own design business, Madeline proves she’s more than a dancer—she’s a force of nature, redefining what it means to be a modern artist.

    Whether you’re a dancer, creative, or someone chasing a big dream, this conversation will leave you inspired to leap higher—both literally and figuratively.



    1 hr 21 min
  • Ep. 152 How Pleasure & Discomfort Can Affect Your Success

    Hello Everyone,

    In this deeply inspiring episode of A Dancer’s Mindset, we dive into the world of mental strength, discipline, and motivation through the teachings of Shaolin Master Shi Heng Yi. Known for his powerful presence and profound wisdom, Master Shi Heng Yi shares life-changing philosophies rooted in ancient Shaolin tradition—ones that can help you find clarity, inner peace, and unstoppable drive.

    Whether you’re a dancer, athlete, artist, or simply someone looking to level up your mindset, this episode will show you how to cultivate discipline that doesn’t rely on fleeting motivation. We explore how small daily actions, mindfulness, and self-mastery are the true keys to long-term success.

    In this episode, we’ll uncover:
    – Why motivation isn’t enough—and what to rely on instead


    – How to build a routine that strengthens both the body and the mind


    – Shaolin practices that you can apply to your own life for greater focus and resilience


    – Quotes and insights from Master Shi Heng Yi that will shift your mindset instantly

    Get ready to walk away feeling grounded, empowered, and ready to show up as your strongest self—every single day

    ------


    19 min
  • Ep.151 Alina Cojocaru: Royal Ballet Legend Shares Her Definition Of Success

    Hey Everyone, In this very special episode, we sit down with one of the most beloved ballerinas of our time—Alina Cojocaru. From her humble beginnings in Romania to becoming a Principal at The Royal Ballet, English National Ballet and beyond, Alina shares the highs, the challenges, her growth in her mindset and the deeply personal moments that shaped her extraordinary career.She opens up about:✨ The key experiences that shaped her artistry🎭 How to grow as a deeper artist, beyond just technique🌱 Where she finds inspiration—on and off stage🕊️ How she stays grounded through the pressures of a ballet career💬 Her heartfelt advice for young dancers navigating the ballet world todayAlina’s wisdom and sincerity are a powerful reminder that ballet is not just about perfection—it's about storytelling, connection, and resilience.This is a must-listen for any dancer or artist looking to deepen their craft and stay inspired in their journey.🎙️ Listen now and be inspired by Alina’s grace—onstage and off.I hope you enjoy this episode Please like & subscribe -------✨ Welcome to Ballet With Isabella! ✨https://balletwithisabella.comBallet With Isabella (BWI) is your go-to online training platform for dancers of all levels! Whether you’re a beginner, pre-professional, or pro, we help you refine your technique, build strength, and boost confidence all with structured training that delivers real results. We are a community of go getters! 💖 What You’ll Find Here:✅ Expert-led ballet classes & courses✅ On-demand classes and courses to watch wherever you are. ✅ Structured Plans ✅ Flexibility & strength workouts for dancers✅ Mindset coaching✅ Live Zoom classes for Members ( recorded to watch later) ✅ Private coaching & personalized plans to smash your goals ✅ Intensives worldwide to work with isabella face to face.💡 Join Our Membership!🔹 Corps – Recorded classes + Live Members Classes🔹 Soloist – Live Classes + all on-demand classes & courses & plans🔹 Principal – Everything + a custom plan every 8 weeks🎙️ Listen to Our Podcast! A Dancer’s Mindset (Co-hosted by Suvi Honkanen) – interviews, training tips, and mental strategies to help you succeed in ballet.👩‍🏫 About IsabellaIsabella is a graduate of vaganova, pro ballet dancer and professional ballet coach. Founder of BWI, she beleives everyone should have the best. Helping dancers worldwide reach their full potential through expert training & mindset coaching.🔗 Start Training Today! → https://balletwithisabella.com/select-a-plan/✨ Subscribe & turn on notifications for new ballet content every week! 💃🩰--------

    2 hr 13 min
  • Ep.150 Are your mornings filled with anxiety?

    Waking Up With Anxiety: How to Cope and Take Back Control

    Have you ever woken up with that familiar tightness in your chest, your thoughts already racing before your feet even hit the floor?

    You're not alone. Morning anxiety is incredibly common—especially for high achievers, perfectionists, and anyone carrying a heavy mental load. In this episode, we’re talking honestly about what it feels like to start the day already in fight-or-flight mode—and, more importantly, what you can do about it.


    Together, we’ll explore simple, powerful ways to cope with morning anxiety, from understanding the root causes to implementing mindset shifts and daily habits that help you feel grounded, calm, and in control. You’ll learn why being aware of your emotions isn’t weakness—it’s strength. Because when you start to understand why you're feeling anxious, you take the first step in becoming the most resilient, empowered version of yourself.


    Let’s reframe anxiety not as a personal flaw, but as a message—one that, when listened to with compassion and curiosity, can lead you toward real, lasting change.


    -----

    About Ballet With Isabella
    Ballet With Isabella is your secret weapon for unlocking your full potential as a dancer—physically and mentally.

    Whether you're training for pointe, returning to ballet, or striving to reach a professional level, BWI offers structured online plans, inspiring courses, and a supportive global community.

    From personalized training in our Principal membership, to on-demand classes and mindset coaching through A Dancer’s Mindset, every offering is designed to help you grow with confidence and consistency.


    Explore our memberships, courses, and free resources at balletwithisabella.com.

    26 min
  • Ep.149 Stay Hungry, Stay Foolish: Lessons for Dancers

    Hello Everyone,

    In this episode of A Dancer’s Mindset, we dive into the legendary Stanford commencement speech by Steve Jobs — a message that continues to resonate with creators, dreamers, and high-achievers across the world.

    But what can dancers learn from a tech visionary?

    From trusting the dots will connect, to finding what you truly love, and embracing both success and failure — we break down the key lessons and show how they apply directly to the ballet world. Whether you're in the middle of your training, recovering from a setback, or questioning your path, this episode will reignite your passion and remind you why you started.

    🌟 "The only way to do great work is to love what you do." – Steve Jobs

    Let this episode be a reset, a motivation boost, and a reminder to stay curious, resilient, and bold — both in and out of the studio.

    ---------

    ✨ Want to take your ballet training to the next level? Here’s how we can help! ✨

    💻 Join Ballet With Isabella – Our online platform offers structured training plans, recorded classes, and expert guidance to help you improve, no matter your level. Whether you're working on pointe strength, turnout, flexibility, or technique, we’ve got the resources to support your progress. Join us today at balletwithisabella.com!

    📲 Train Smarter With Our Courses – Want to master pirouettes, allegro, or fouettés? Our in-depth courses break down technique, strength, and drills to help you finally achieve your goals. Browse all courses here!

    🎭 Become a Soloist Member – If you’re looking for in depth courses, online classes, live classes, and plans our soloist Membership is the ultimate way to refine your skill and reach your potential. Sign up now at balletwithisabella.com/membership!

    🎧 Listen & Learn More – Keep growing your mindset and motivation by subscribing to A Dancer’s Mindset on your favorite podcast platform.

    📲 Follow on Socials – Stay inspired with daily tips, behind-the-scenes training, and motivation:
    📍Instagram: @balletwithisabella
    📍TikTok: @balletwithisabella
    📍YouTube: Subscribe for free training videos & insights!

    🔥 Start training smarter and reaching your goals today! 🔥

    28 min
  • Ep.148 The inner game of dance. Understanding your inner voice

    Hello Everyone,

    Today is an inspiring episode.

    🧠 Inspired by W. Timothy Gallwey’s 'The Inner Game of Tennis'

    🎧 In this episode, we're diving into the powerful teachings of The Inner Game of Tennis – a book that, although written for athletes on the court, holds absolute gold for dancers in the studio.

    You’ll discover:


    ✔️ Why the biggest battle isn’t against your technique – it’s against your own mind


    ✔️ How to quiet the inner critic and tap into flow


    ✔️ The difference between Self 1 (the thinker) and Self 2 (the doer) – and how learning to trust your body can transform your dancing


    ✔️ Why overthinking kills performance – and how awareness, not judgment, leads to improvement


    ✔️ How to stop “trying harder” and start “allowing more” in your artistry

    Whether you're preparing for an audition, stuck in a perfectionist loop, or just want to dance with more ease and confidence, this episode will shift how you think about training forever.

    You don’t need to play tennis to benefit from this book – you just need a desire to perform freely, fully, and fearlessly.


    Please Follow & Share the podcast so we can help more and more of you.

    ------

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    ✨ Want to take your ballet training to the next level? Here’s how we can help! ✨

    💻 Join Ballet With Isabella – Our online platform offers structured training plans, recorded classes, and expert guidance to help you improve, no matter your level. Whether you're working on pointe strength, turnout, flexibility, or technique, we’ve got the resources to support your progress. Join us today at balletwithisabella.com!

    📲 Train Smarter With Our Courses – Want to master pirouettes, allegro, or fouettés? Our in-depth courses break down technique, strength, and drills to help you finally achieve your goals. Browse all courses here!

    🎭 Become a Principal Member – If you’re looking for personalized coaching, live classes, and exclusive workshops, our Principal Membership is the ultimate way to refine your artistry and technique with direct feedback from me. Sign up now at balletwithisabella.com/membership!

    🎧 Listen & Learn More – Keep growing your mindset and motivation by subscribing to A Dancer’s Mindset on your favorite podcast platform.

    📲 Follow on Socials – Stay inspired with daily tips, behind-the-scenes training, and motivation:
    📍Instagram: @balletwithisabella
    📍TikTok: @balletwithisabella
    📍YouTube: Subscribe for free training videos & insights!

    🔥 Start training smarter and reaching your goals today! 🔥

    27 min
  • Ep. 147 Why am I not improving? Strategies for constant progress

    Hello Everyone!

    In this powerful episode of A Dancer’s Mindset, Isabella and Suvi dive deep into a frustration so many dancers face:


    "Why am I not improving, even though I’m working so hard?"


    Together, we explore the real reasons your technique might be plateauing—and it’s not always about effort. We cover:


    ✨ The hidden habits that could be holding you back
    ✨ How to stop relying solely on your teachers for progress
    ✨ Why taking your training into your own hands is a game-changer
    ✨ The mindset shift that helps you move from stuck to skyrocketing

    We’ll also share practical tips and personal stories about how we made real progress by becoming intentional, curious, and self-led in our training.

    If you’ve been feeling frustrated, confused, or discouraged about your technique, this episode is your reminder that you have more power than you think. You can change the trajectory of your dancing starting today.

    🎧 Tune in now and take control of your growth.


    ----------

    ✨ Welcome to Ballet With Isabella! ✨

    Ballet With Isabella (BWI) is your go-to online training platform for dancers of all levels! Whether you’re a beginner, pre-professional, or pro, we help you refine your technique, build strength, and boost confidence—all with structured training that delivers real results.

    💖 What You’ll Find Here:
    ✅ Expert-led ballet classes & courses
    ✅ Pointe training programs (The Strong Pointe Plan)
    ✅ Flexibility & strength workouts for dancers
    ✅ Audition tips & mindset coaching
    ✅ Live Zoom classes & workshops
    ✅ Private coaching & personalized plans

    💡 Join Our Membership!
    🔹 Corps – Recorded classes
    🔹 Soloist – Classes + all on-demand courses
    🔹 Principal – Everything + live training & a custom plan every 8 weeks

    🎙️ Listen to Our Podcast! A Dancer’s Mindset (Co-hosted by Suvi Honkanen) – interviews, training tips, and mental strategies to help you succeed in ballet.

    👩‍🏫 About Isabella
    Isabella is a professional ballet coach & founder of BWI, helping dancers worldwide reach their full potential through expert training & mindset coaching.

    🔗 Start Training Today! → [Insert website link]

    ✨ Subscribe & turn on notifications for new ballet content every week! 💃🩰

    25 min
  • Ep.146 How to practice & digest feedback

    Hello Everyone!


    In this episode of A Dancer’s Mindset, we’re diving into one of the most crucial aspects of your training—how to practice effectively and digest feedback in a way that truly transforms your dancing.

    So many dancers go through the motions in class, but real progress comes from training with intention. I’ll break down:


    ✅ The difference between mindless repetition and smart practice
    ✅ How to truly absorb corrections instead of just hearing them and feeling bad about them
    ✅ Why feedback, no matter how tough, is your greatest tool for success
    ✅ How to be the kind of student teachers love to work with
    ✅ Shifting your perspective on feedback, reframing critiques as opportunities, not criticism

    Practicing without purpose leads to slow progress. But when you learn how to train efficiently, apply feedback correctly, and develop a growth mindset, you’ll start seeing real, measurable improvements.

    Get ready to level up your practice habits, become a better student, and make every class count! 🎧✨


    -------


    ✨ Want to take your ballet training to the next level? Here’s how we can help! ✨

    💻 Join Ballet With Isabella – Our online platform offers structured training plans, recorded classes, and expert guidance to help you improve, no matter your level.


    Join our worldwide intensives & Retreats

    https://balletwithisabella.com/workshops


    Whether you're working on pointe strength, turnout, flexibility, piroeuttes or technique, we’ve got the resources to support your progress. Join us today at balletwithisabella.com!

    📲 Train Smarter With Our Courses – Want to master pirouettes, allegro, or fouettés? Our in-depth courses break down technique, strength, and drills to help you finally achieve your goals. Browse all courses here!

    🎭 Become a Principal Member – If you’re looking for personalized coaching, live classes, and exclusive workshops, our Principal Membership is the ultimate way to refine your artistry and technique with direct feedback from me. 

    Sign up now at balletwithisabella.com/membership!

    🎧 Listen & Learn More – Keep growing your mindset and motivation by subscribing to A Dancer’s Mindset on your favorite podcast platform.

    📲 Follow on Socials – Stay inspired with daily tips, behind-the-scenes training, and motivation:
    📍Instagram: @balletwithisabella
    📍TikTok: @balletwithisabella
    📍YouTube: Subscribe for free training videos & insights!

    🔥 Start training smarter and reaching your goals today! 🔥

    37 min

About A Dancer's Mindset

From the publisher's feed

Hi friends, it’s Isabella! Vaganova graduate, international coach and recovering perfectionist.

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