The Acrobatic Arts Podcast

Join us for a dynamic Q&A episode of the Acrobatic Arts Podcast with one of our favorite guests, Dr. Leisha Strachan! This episode is packed with expert insights. Dr. Strachan, a sports psychologist and professor at the University of Manitoba, addresses common questions from acro instructors, including:

Don't miss this chance to gain valuable tools and techniques from one of our most popular guests! Tune in now to enhance your teaching and support your students' success!

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Dr. Leisha Strachan is a professor at the University of Manitoba with a research focus on positive youth development through sport. She is also interested in research with coaches and parents in the deliberate delivery of positive sport experiences for children and youth.

Research Areas

Education

Leisha has been involved in sport and dance for the majority of her life. She began baton twirling at Crestview Community Club in Winnipeg at the age of 5 and continued for 18 years. She is a former Canadian Senior Freestyle Champion (1994), Grand National Solo and 2-Baton champion (1994), CBTF Senior Athlete and Overall Athlete of the Year (1994), and a 7-time Canadian Contingent member competing in freestyle (highest placing - 6th in 1994) and pair events garnering 2 world bronze medals for her efforts (with Kristin Macaraeg). In her time on the national team, she traveled to France, Japan, Holland, Italy, and Hawaii. Leisha is one of the founding coaches of Aerial Fusion Baton, which has been in existence for 25 years. In addition to being a Level 3 certified coach, she is also certified as a Module 1 teacher in Acrobatic Arts. She is also a certified M1, M2, M3, and Masters judge. She has had the opportunity to coach provincial and national team members and continues to choreograph for different athletes across Canada, England, and Scotland.

IG @drls250

Previous Episodes

Ep 4 Protecting Your Mental Health Dr Leisha Strachan

Ep 31 Overcoming Dancer Anxiety + Mental Blocks with Dr. Leisha Strachan

Ep. 69 Turning Dance Transitions into Triumphs with Dr. Leisha Strachan, Pt 1

Ep. 69 Turning Dance Transitions into Triumphs with Dr. Leisha Strachan, Pt. 2

Join us on the Acrobatic Arts Podcast as we welcome examiner Wendy Holmquist to discuss the art of mock exams!

With over 45 years of dance experience, Wendy shares invaluable insights on:
• Creating the perfect exam environment
• Preparing students for success
• Mastering exam etiquette and attire Whether you're a teacher or student, this episode is packed with essential tips to boost confidence and performance on exam day.

Don't miss out on this wealth of knowledge from one of our experienced examiners! Tune in now and take your exam prep to the next level!

Click Here To Listen!

About Wendy

Need some visuals? Check out Miss Wendy's Weekly Mini presentation, Mock Exam Preparation, on YouTube!

Wendy Holmquist began her dance education at age 13 in her grandmother's studio, Markall School of Dance. With more than 45 years experience she has been the proud owner/director of Dance Dynamics Studio in Thunder Bay for the past twenty plus years.

Wendy has spent many hours researching and exploring different syllabi, articles, videos and webinars to develop programs the where emphasis lies around forming technically correct multi-disciplined performers, at the same time providing unique and everlasting life experiences. The studio's programs vary to encompass children of all ages and aspirations.

Wendy's dance education is comprised of exams/certification from accredited organizations; Acrobatic Arts, AcroDance Competition Adjudicator, Dance Teachers Stage Division Jazz, ADAPT(Associated Dance Arts for Professional Teachers), Al Gilbert Dance Educators, Dance Teachers Club of Boston &American Society of Dance Teachers -Jazz Division, Dance Olympus, and Progressing Ballet Technique, and CLI Continuing Dance Education, and Mental Health First Aid.

Wendy has an extensive background as a fitness instructor/trainer where she was employed at Vic Tanny's, YM/YWCA, the City of Thunder Bay, and Confederation College Fitness Centre, and received certification through the Ontario Fitness Leadership program and was a certified Nautilus instructor.

As an Acrobatic Arts Examiner Wendy travels throughout Canada and the United States and most recently through Zoom, where she evaluates young acro dancers as they progress through the 12 level syllabus providing valuable critiques and encouragement for them to move onto their next levels. She is also certified to examine the Acrobatic Arts Pin Program.

Wendy holds certificated as a Rhythm Works Integrative Dance Instructor. RWID is a rhythm and dance program that incorporates evidence-based practices from sensory integration, applications to physical skills, and behavioral strategies. Special attention is given to helping improve outcomes for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders, Down syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Sensory Processing Disorder, ADHD, and other learning differences and special needs.

Wendy continues to push her staff to continue being leaders in the industry ensuring using the latest technologies and tools available. To this end she has also partnered with CLI (Creative, Learning, Inspiring) Studios giving her staff year round access to some of the top professionals in the industry – Caitlin Kinney, Nick Lazzarini, Mijo, Comfort, Jamie Goodwin & Twitch to name a few.

Wendy is proud to continue as part of the Acrobatic Arts amazing faculty and looks forward to many more years.

If you'd like more amazing content more tips and ideas check out our Acrobatic Arts Channel on YouTube. Subscribe Now!

Connect with Acrobatic Arts on your favourite social media platform:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acrobaticarts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Acroarts

Twitter: https://twitter.com/acrobatic_arts/

Learn more and register for our programs at AcrobaticArts.com

Tune in to the latest episode of the Acrobatic Arts podcast featuring the incredible Lauren Ritchie, a renowned mental skills educator and dance expert.

Lauren shares her journey from competitive dancer to mental performance specialist, offering invaluable insights on building resilience, confidence, and sustainable success in the world of dance and acrobatics.

With her wealth of experience in creating international teacher training programs and pioneering "The Dance Podcast," Lauren discusses essential mental skills techniques for dancers, teachers, and studio owners.

Don't miss this opportunity to learn from one of the industry's most respected voices on the intersection of performance, well-being, and mindfulness in dance and acrobatics.

About Lauren Ritchie

Lauren Ritchie (MEd, BA, ESFCC) is an established mental skills educator, dance teacher, and choreographer. Her areas of interest and expertise include sports and performance mental training, as well as the intersection of well-being and mindfulness.

Her work has led to the creation of international teacher training programs, dance and sport conventions, the pioneering show The Dance Podcast, and mental performance-based curriculums for dancers, athletes, and coaches. Lauren's proficiency in performance preparation and enhancement has led to supporting youth and professionals in dance, theatre, hockey, music, gymnastics, volleyball, and soccer.

Lauren has been a featured speaker for the Women In Sport Speaker Series, the Female Sport Summit, Alberta Dance Alliance, Dance Studio Owners Association, House of Jazz (London), and the Toronto Dance Teacher Expo. She has delivered workshops to prestigious schools and programs like Harbour Dance Centre, the Alberta Ballet School, the Dancer Transition Resource Centre, Capilano University, the University of Calgary, and The Bridge Movement.

Follow Lauren on IG: @lauren_m_ritchie

Website: https://withlauren.ca/

If you'd like more amazing content more tips and ideas check out our Acrobatic Arts Channel on YouTube. Subscribe Now!

Connect with Acrobatic Arts on your favourite social media platform:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acrobaticarts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Acroarts

Twitter: https://twitter.com/acrobatic_arts/

Learn more and register for our programs at AcrobaticArts.com

Join us for an exciting episode featuring guest Loranne Meek, owner of Baton and Dance Company and an esteemed examiner with Acrobatic Arts. With over 30 years of experience, Loranne shares her expert insights on developing exceptional illusion techniques for dancers. Tune in as she walks us through effective progressions and tips that will elevate your teaching and enhance your students' performances. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from one of the best in the field!

Need some visuals? Check out Miss Loranne's Weekly Mini presentation, Great illusion technique, on YouTube!

About Loranne

LORANNE MEEK (a.k.a. Miss Elle) is the owner/director/head choreographer of The Baton & Dance Company in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. During her athletic career she was the 1983 and 1985 Grand National 2-Baton Champion and was a member of the 1986 World Silver Medalist Team.

Loranne has coached several National and International Champions and Teams in her career. She has traveled to Switzerland to teach athletes on the Swiss National Team and taught at the International Athletes Clinic in Osaka, Japan.

​Loranne's professional dance career has taken her on many adventures. She was the co-owner/director of the professional dance troupe “DANCE TECH”. She performed and choreographed for the Western Premier's Conference, the Noel “O” Concert, the Alumni Concert, the Calgary Women's and Bridal Show, Annual Aids Benefit Concert, The Black Achievement Awards, Latitude and Jacob Fashion Shows, the Maestro Fresh Wes Concert, the Reel to Real, ATC and Underground Concerts, three music videos – Jason McKoy, Dive and Exsanguis, Josie D'Ambola's CD Release Party, and toured with Love Inc.

Loranne is a CBTF Level 3 Certified Coach, NCCP II Certified Coach, she is certified in the FMS - Community Leader (Multi-Sport Module), and a Module 1, 2, 3, CBTF Certified Judge.

If you'd like more amazing content more tips and ideas check out our Acrobatic Arts Channel on YouTube. Subscribe Now!

Connect with Acrobatic Arts on your favourite social media platform:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acrobaticarts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Acroarts

Twitter: https://twitter.com/acrobatic_arts/

Learn more and register for our programs at AcrobaticArts.com

Tune in to this exciting episode of the Acrobatic Arts podcast as host Loren interviews performing artist Derek Piquette. Derek shares his incredible journey from a young dancer to a star on So You Think You Can Dance and a lead performer with Cirque du Soleil.

He discusses the importance of safe training, emotional depth in performance, and the lessons he's learned through challenges, including multiple hip surgeries.

This episode offers valuable insights for dancers and teachers alike, emphasizing resilience and passion in the dance world. Don't miss this inspiring conversation!

About Derek Piquette

Derek Piquette, a multifaceted artist from Chicopee, MA, began his dance journey at 10.

A principal dancer in Carmen and The Maid, he gained recognition on Season 12 of So You Think You Can Dance, finishing top 4 and touring.

Derek founded Intrepid Dance Company in 2017, directing and choreographing its debut, "HER."

Starring as the "Trickster" in Cirque Du Soleil's KOOZA, Derek also reached the finals on NBC's World Of Dance Season 3.

As a teacher and choreographer, Derek contributed to renowned organizations like CLI Studios and judged competitions.

Choreographing 350+ award-winning pieces since 2014, he left a mark on Dance Moms, Disney Channel's Backstage, and So You Think You Can Dance.

Derek's passion extends to mentoring young dancers globally, leaving a lasting impact through his exceptional teaching approach and inspiring them to excel in dance.

Follow Derek on IG: https://www.instagram.com/derekpiquette/

If you'd like more amazing content more tips and ideas check out our Acrobatic Arts Channel on YouTube. Subscribe Now!

Connect with Acrobatic Arts on your favourite social media platform:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acrobaticarts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Acroarts

Twitter: https://twitter.com/acrobatic_arts/

Learn more and register for our programs at AcrobaticArts.com

Join host Loren Dermody in the latest episode of the Acrobatic Arts podcast, where we dive into the art of crafting the perfect recital routine for pre schoolers! This episode explores essential questions that every teacher faces, from choosing the right performance venue to deciding whether to incorporate mats and props. Loren shares valuable insights and tips to help educators create engaging, memorable experiences for their young dancers. Tune in for practical advice that will inspire your teaching and make recital day a fun occasion for everyone involved!

Need some visuals? Check out Miss Loren's Weekly Mini presentation, Creating a Recital Routine for Pre School Dancers, on YouTube!

Loren Dermody envisions living in a world where everyone dances, loves, laughs, lives their passion, and listens to Prince every single day!

A renowned and sought-after coach and choreographer, Loren started studying dance, acrobatics, and baton twirling at a very young age in Regina, Saskatchewan. Throughout her competitive career she competed nationally and internationally in dance and baton twirling as an individual and in groups. Hard work and dedication brought her and her teammates incredible success including a Gold Medal at the World Baton Twirling Championships in Padova, Italy and recognition as inductees into the Saskatchewan Sports Hall of Fame.

Over the last 30 years, when she's not choreographing award-winning routines for hundreds of dancers and athletes in dance, baton and acrobatics, you can find her traveling the world, upgrading her certifications, attending professional development events, workshops, and conferences that keep her on top of the most recent developments and current trends in the industry.

In addition to holding a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance Studies from the University of Calgary, Loren is a CBTF Certified Coach & Judge; WBTF Certified Judge; Certified Yoga & Meditation Teacher; ADAPT Jazz and Tap Certified Teacher; Certified RWID Instructor; Certified PBT Teacher; Alixa Flexibility Module 3 Certified Teacher; Acrobatic Arts Certified Teacher, Course Conductor, & Examiner; Level 1 Certified Trainer in the Genius of Flexibility Method; Level 2 NCCP Accredited Coach; Y.P.A.D Certified Teacher; member of IADMS; member of the Yoga Alliance; and a member of the Canadian Dance Teachers Association (Jazz & Acrobatics).

Loren has been with Acrobatic Arts since the beginning and is excited to contribute her creativity, years of experience, and her love for teaching alongside the most talented staff in the world!

If you'd like more amazing content more tips and ideas check out our Acrobatic Arts Channel on YouTube. Subscribe Now!

Connect with Acrobatic Arts on your favourite social media platform:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acrobaticarts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Acroarts

Twitter: https://twitter.com/acrobatic_arts/

Learn more and register for our programs at AcrobaticArts.com

Join Acrobatic Arts resident Pre School expert and podcast host, Loren Dermody as she chats with Belinda Agostino from Ready Set Dance about the exciting Ready Set Acro program for preschoolers! Discover how this collaboration enhances young dancers' skills while ensuring safety and fun. Get insights on integrating acro into your curriculum, hear success stories, and learn about the upcoming Ready Set Dance Summit in Las Vegas. Tune in now to inspire the next generation of dancers!

Find out more about Ready Set Acro!
https://www.acrobaticarts.com/training-courses/ready-set-acro-discovery-call

Ready Set Dance Summit 2024
https://form.jotform.com/inforeadysetdance/RSDConference

Ready Set Dance
https://readyset.dance/

About Belinda

Belinda is a co-founder of Ready Set Dance, the leading preschool dance curriculum Worldwide. The award-winning program elevates preschool dance education and entertainment so that more preschoolers experience the magic of dance.

With her degree in Business, majoring in Marketing and experience as a dance educator, Belinda understands connecting class marketing with class management. Her wealth of knowledge comes from owning her own studio in Sydney @allstarzpa and teaching for over 25 years.

With close to 900 students coming through her studio doors every week and 300 of those being pre-schoolers, she knows how to reach, teach, and retain preschoolers and turn them into a lifetime customer.

If you'd like more amazing content more tips and ideas check out our Acrobatic Arts Channel on YouTube. Subscribe Now!

Connect with Acrobatic Arts on your favourite social media platform:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acrobaticarts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Acroarts

Twitter: https://twitter.com/acrobatic_arts/

Learn more and register for our programs at AcrobaticArts.com

Tune in as we welcome Cheryl Crawford, Acrobatic Arts Master Teacher and Course Conductor from our UK Division. With years of experience as a studio owner and examiner, Cheryl offers expert insights on setting up an acro studio. Learn about essential equipment, budget-friendly solutions, and practical tips to create a thriving acro program. Whether you're a seasoned instructor or just starting out, Cheryl's valuable advice will help you take your acro classes to the next level. Don't miss out!

About Cheryl

Cheryl's dance journey began at age 5 with ballet and tap lessons at her local Town Hall. By 10, she had fallen in love with all aspects of dance. She trained for three years at the Theatre School of Dance & Drama in Edinburgh, graduating in 1999 with her RAD Registered teacher status.

In 2001, eight months after having her first child, Cheryl established her own dance school. Sixteen years and another child later, she now owns a Dance Studio offering Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Cheer, Contemporary, and her new favorite, Acrobatic Arts.

Cheryl is one of the lucky few who truly enjoy their work. As a member of the Acrobatic Arts Staff, she feels honored to be part of the organization and looks forward to growing with the company. Her passion for dance and teaching continues to drive her forward in her career.

Need some visuals? Check out Cheryl's Weekly Mini presentation, The Basics of Acro Studio Set Up, on YouTube!

If you'd like more amazing content more tips and ideas check out our Acrobatic Arts Channel on YouTube. Subscribe Now!

Connect with Acrobatic Arts on your favourite social media platform:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acrobaticarts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Acroarts

Twitter: https://twitter.com/acrobatic_arts/

Learn more and register for our programs at AcrobaticArts.com

Join us as we welcome Jemma Harris, expert course conductor and examiner. Jemma shares her top tips and techniques for mastering beginner handstands, covering posture, strength, alignment, and stacking. With engaging drills and invaluable insights, this episode is a must-listen for both teachers and students looking to build a solid acro foundation. Don't miss out!

About Jemma

Jemma began her dance journey at the age of 3 with Beats Per Minute Performing Arts on the Sunshine Coast training in all genres of dance. Jemma completed examinations in the RAD and Comdance syllabi gaining Distinction for Advanced 2 RAD, and Honours Plus for Modern Jazz Shield, Theatrical Shield and Gold Cross Tap.

At the completion of her training Jemma was awarded scholarships to a range of prestigious pre-professional programs including; Broadway Dance Centre and Brent Street. However was offered a contract with Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines only two weeks after turning 18.

Jemma spent 3 years travelling the world and performing in production shows and musicals on board, including a feature role in “Saturday Night Fever” the musical and a soloist and showgirl in a diverse range of theatre shows.

Now, as a highly qualified teacher Jemma is passionate about progressing students safely with a rounded and broad skillset in the performing arts, starting at the very beginning with the tiniest humans. Jemma is passionate about early childhood development and laying the foundations from the very beginning and loves sharing her passion in this area as a course conductor for AcroDance Pre School and Ready Set Acro.

Jemma's qualifications span from Comdance Jazz, Tap and Theatrical through to Acrobatic Arts M1, M2 and M3, Alixa Flexibility, PBT as well as Aerial Arts. She loves sharing her knowledge with other like minded teachers through course conducting Acrobatic Arts M1, M2 and Aerial Arts and is honoured to be apart of a world renowned program!

If you'd like more amazing content more tips and ideas check out our Acrobatic Arts Channel on YouTube. Subscribe Now!

Connect with Acrobatic Arts on your favourite social media platform:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acrobaticarts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Acroarts

Twitter: https://twitter.com/acrobatic_arts/

Learn more and register for our programs at AcrobaticArts.com

In this episode Acrobatic Arts Master Teacher Leah Holliday presents a bite-sized tutorial on How to Spot Side Aerials. Tune in to this great resource for teachers who want to help their students progress safely and achieve this skill successfully!

About Leah

Leah has been teaching acro and dance for over 25 years. She was born and raised in Regina, SK and studied dance and baton twirling at the Martin School of Dance. Not only was she known as a well accomplished dancer but she represented Canada in Baton Twirling at numerous World Championships as a soloist and team member. Leah has been with AA for 4 years. She is a course conductor and examiner. Leah teaches dance and acro in High River, AB and she teachers Master Classes for Acrobatic Arts.

Need some visuals? Check out Leah's Weekly Mini presentation, How to Spot Side Aerials, on YouTube!

If you'd like more amazing content more tips and ideas check out our Acrobatic Arts Channel on YouTube. Subscribe Now!

Connect with Acrobatic Arts on your favourite social media platform:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acrobaticarts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Acroarts

Twitter: https://twitter.com/acrobatic_arts/

Learn more and register for our programs at AcrobaticArts.com