Choreographer’s Corner with KG and Zay

What actually makes a great dance instructor—and why isn’t teaching choreography enough?

In this episode, Cameron Lee breaks down the gaps in modern dance education and challenges the current “choreo-only” culture dominating classrooms and social media. We talk about why knowing dance history, teacher lineage, and movement influence matters, how choreography should be used as a tool rather than the sole focus of class, and what happens when teachers stop training as students themselves.

This conversation dives into the long-term impact of instructors who prioritize performance and visibility over education, feedback, and mentorship—and how that affects not just individual dancers, but the culture of dance as a whole.

In this episode, we cover:

• What makes a great dance educator

• Why fundamentals, style lineage, and credentials matter

• How to use class choreography as a learning tool, not the finish line

• Why so many teachers only teach choreography—and what’s missing because of it

• What happens to teachers and students when growth stops

• How social media has changed dance education (and not always for the better)

• The role of mentorship programs in developing confident, informed dancers

This episode is for dancers who want more than just counts and combos—and teachers who care about building community, working dancers, and sustainable careers.

––
Directed & hosted by Kristen Grace & Isaiah Rashaad

Ready to turn your dance passion into a professional career? In Episode 3 of Choreographer's Corner, hosts Kristen and Isaiah break down everything advanced dancers need to know about making it in the industry. From building your professional package (headshots, reels, and comp cards) to navigating auditions, getting an agent, and advocating for fair pay, this episode is packed with insider tips from their years working in LA and Seattle. Learn why you need to think of yourself as a business, how to network authentically without being "slimy," and why you should never work for just beer and chicken. Whether you're eyeing tours with major artists, aiming for commercial gigs, or exploring theater and film work, this honest, no-BS conversation will help you level up from talented dancer to working professional.

In this episode, Zay and KG discuss everything from how to get your first performance opportunity, to booking your first job. They both recall stories from their own experiences and perspectives of seeing success when the preparation meets an opportunity! Join us as we hang out, laugh and catch up about all the things we wish someone had told us when we were earlier in our dance journey!

Welcome to the first EVER “Choreographer’s Corner” - a space for us to connect as friends and talk about all things dance, business and life! In this episode we catch up about how we met, a little about our backgrounds, and why we want to offer a space for beginner/intermediate dancers to thrive.