On this episode of On A Water Break we tackle a powerful and often unspoken issue in the activity: body shaming.

Host Nicole Younger (@o2binpjs) is joined by co-hosts Alicia Sharp (@aliciaoninsta2) and Whitney Stone (@dancerwhit), alongside guest clinicians Carlos Herrera (@hellocarlosxd) and Erik Longey (@itsspelledwithak), for an emotional and honest discussion on body image, staff expectations, and how size discrimination shows up in the marching arts.

From traumatic uniform fittings and audition comments to the struggle of masking and the impact of a single sentence, each guest shares personal stories and reflects on how we can all do better as educators, performers, and leaders. They also spotlight organizations offering real support, like Melanin Mosaic, the WGI Participant Protection system, and RISE (Resource for Instruction, Safety & Education).

👥 Hosts & Guests

Host: Nicole Younger – @o2binpjs
Co-Hosts: Alicia Sharp – @aliciaoninsta2 | Whitney Stone – @dancerwhit
Guest Clinicians: Carlos Herrera – @hellocarlosxd | Erik Longey – @itsspelledwithak

💬 In This Episode:

• “You spin beautifully… but you’ll need to lose 50 pounds.”
• The emotional toll of staff comments and audition feedback
• What it means to feel safe and seen in uniform
• Creating an inclusive teaching environment
• How to advocate for yourself (and others)
• How to file a concern with WGI
• Where to turn for mental health support
• Rewriting the expectations of body, ability, and performance

QUOTE OF THE WEEK:
“You’re not going to perform at your best if you don’t feel good in your costume.” — Whitney Stone

🎧 Listen anywhere you get your podcasts
📺 Watch full episodes on YouTube
📲 Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook: @onawaterbreak
📬 Email us: [email protected]
🎤 Want to be a guest? Apply here: https://forms.gle/7GcpYZLfY8Uo54pp9

Sponsored by:
Guard Closet – https://guardcloset.com | IG: @guardcloset
Peak Group Travel – https://peakgrouptravel.com | IG: @peakgrouptravel

Hashtags:
#OnAWaterBreak #MarchingArts #ColorGuard #BodyPositivity #SizeInclusion #GuardLife #WGI #TeachingWithCompassion #MelaninMosaic #RISEGroup