Hi everyone and welcome to the podcast! this week i'm joined by the incredible Daniela Thorne !

Most ballet dancers experience a moment when they realise their career is more than just performing, it's about resilience, identity, and personal growth.

Daniela Thorne shares how her journey through rigorous training, international companies, and the unpredictability of life outside the stage taught her to redefine success and find freedom beyond the barre.

From fighting loneliness in foreign cities to navigating the highs and lows of a ballet career during a global pandemic, Daniela opens up about the importance of curiosity, community, and embracing authenticity. She reveals how shifting perspectives and exploring new interests—modeling, film, and even writing—have kept her connected to her art and herself, proving there's more to life than the stage.

You'll discover: how early competition shaped Daniela's resilience, the role of self-care and curiosity in her artistic evolution, and why she believes cultivating outside relationships is essential for long-term growth.

This episode illuminates the delicate balance of pushing your limits while maintaining joy and self-awareness—an invaluable guide for dancers, artists, and anyone pursuing their passion with purpose.

If you're questioning your path, craving inspiration to break out of the mold, or seeking honest insights into the realities of a dancer's life, this conversation is your reminder that there’s beauty and freedom in exploration beyond traditional boundaries.Perfect for dancers contemplating life's next chapter, students feeling the pressure to conform, or artists seeking more meaningful ways to connect, Daniela’s story is a powerful lesson: your worth isn’t defined by performance, but by your curiosity and courage to grow.

find Dani here

https://www.instagram.com/danielagthorne?igsh=MTM2cWY4bndtMGx2eg==

Finding Balance: From Ballet to Medicine with Miko Fogarty

In this episode, we explore Miko Fogarty's inspiring journey from a competitive ballet dancer to a medical professional specializing in foot and ankle surgery. We discuss resilience, shifting identities, and balancing passions beyond the dance floor—offering valuable insights for dancers navigating career transitions and self-discovery.

Main Topics:

• Miko's early dance training and competition experience, including YGP and international ballet competitions
• The importance of mindset, resilience, and learning from setbacks in ballet
• Transitioning from ballet to a career in medicine and podiatry
• Navigating identity, body image, and self-worth within and outside ballet
• Advice for young dancers contemplating leaving professional dance
• The parallels between dance performance and surgical practice
• Supporting dancers through injuries and career changes

• (00:00) - Introduction to Miko Fogarty and episode overview
• (01:00) - Miko's current training and dance routine
• (02:16) - Favorite choreographers and dancewear
• (03:00) - Personal food preferences and self-care routines
• (03:47) - Early dance journey and competition start at age 8
• (04:43) - The experience of competing in YGP and international competitions
• (06:34) - Transition from ballet to professional career and decision-making
• (08:23) - Challenges with body image, eating habits, and body positivity in ballet
• (09:28) - Advice on handling competition setbacks and emotional resilience
• (11:33) - The competitive landscape of ballet in different regions
• (12:50) - Judging biases, politics, and subjectivity in ballet competitions
• (14:33) - Recovering from poor performances and mental strategies
• (17:41) - Mental focus and staying present during competitions
• (19:04) - Disconnecting from outcome and performance mentality
• (20:52) - The role of perfectionism and self-compassion in dance
• (22:22) - The importance of preparation and stage presence
• (23:46) - Transition to company life in Birmingham Royal Ballet
• (25:17) - Personal struggles with body image and eating during company years
• (27:00) - Moving beyond toxic relationships with body image and social media influence
• (29:39) - Decision to leave ballet and pursue medical studies
• (35:46) - Coming out publicly about departure and its impact
• (40:24) - Finding identity outside ballet and balancing passions
• (43:39) - Advice to dancers afraid of leaving the art form
• (50:29) - Connection between dance and medical practice in foot and ankle health
• (55:41) - Support systems and encouragement for career transitions
• (60:45) - Final words of advice and connecting with the audience

• Miko Fogarty on Instagram

• Dance Nutritionists & Support
• Podcasts & Speaking Engagements

This episode offers an inspiring look at embracing change, overcoming challenges, and pursuing diverse passions. Whether you're a dancer at a crossroads or interested in holistic health, there's valuable wisdom for everyone.

In this episode of the Hard Corps Podcast, host Romy speaks with Elizabeth 'Liza' Yntema, founder of the Dance Data Project.

https://dancedataproject.com/

They discuss the economic implications of dance, particularly for women, and the importance of data in understanding the industry's dynamics.

Liza shares her journey from dancer to advocate, the challenges faced by dancers in securing fair contracts, and the role of AI in gathering and analysing data. The conversation also touches on the relevance of dance in society, the future of ballet, and advice for young dancers entering the profession.takeaways

• Dance is not just an art form; it's real work.
• Women make up a significant portion of the dance workforce but face economic challenges.
• Data is crucial for understanding and improving the dance industry.
• AI can enhance data collection and analysis in dance.
• The funding landscape for dance is changing, with less interest from major donors.
• Young dancers should advocate for themselves and seek information about their contracts.
• Unions play a complex role in the dance industry, sometimes protecting the wrong interests.
• The relevance of dance in society is being questioned as funding decreases.
• Collaboration and resource pooling can benefit smaller dance companies.
• Curiosity and a willingness to learn can lead to better opportunities in dance.

Join us for an inspiring episode with Luna Montana on The Hard Corps Podcast! 🎙️ Dive into discussions about embracing imperfections, the journey of self-discovery, and the art of ballet.

Special thanks to our sponsor, Imperfect Pointes, for supporting this episode. Use code HCP15 for 15% off your next purchase.

https://imperfectpointes.com/?srsltid=AfmBOopcuojq10S1lwoTLLD-M-wD2dFEjZt568ZAc68Pf0aFyjlTlNuk

Follow Luna on ⁠Instagram⁠, ⁠YouTube⁠, and ⁠TikTok⁠.

Connect with The Hard Corps Podcast on ⁠Instagram⁠ 

thanks for tuning in to this weeks episode!

love Romy xoxo

Join Romy and former ballet dancer Lou Spichtig as they explore the highs and lows of a ballet career. From body image challenges to finding one's unique strengths.

The conversation delves into the challenges of body image expectations in ballet, the impact of artistic direction on dancers' careers, and Lou's personal transition out of the dance industry. Lou offers insights into the importance of self-awareness and focusing on personal strengths, encouraging young dancers to embrace their unique qualities. Tune in for an honest and inspiring discussion about the realities of a ballet career and life beyond the stage.

follow Lou

IG

@corps.memories

follow the pod

IG

@thehardcorpspodcast

thank you for tuning in!

This week on The HARD CORPS Podcast, I sit down with Camille Goldsborough — professional ballet dancer, founder of The Prima Club, and a true force in the dance world.

In this open and honest conversation, Camille shares her journey through injury and recovery, the challenges that come with a career in ballet, and how she’s found balance and purpose beyond the studio.

We talk about resilience, identity, and what it really takes to build a sustainable life as an artist.

Whether you’re in the dance world or just navigating your own path, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and real talk you don’t want to miss.

you can find Camille on instagram

@camillegoldsborough

and the Prima Club!

@theprimaclub

https://theprimaclub.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAac0_oLwZ6qm69QdXXvSmNsSYnaYIlZnNUHz1NXmOezjITjYc_kycaITMR_nNQ_aem_WUvVJwN_C5tnZ_XokOKWAA

Thank you so much to everyone that tuned in & a huge thank you to Camille !

Have a lovely week!

Romy

In this episode of The Hard Corps Podcast, I sit down with Steph Archer, professional dancer and co-creator of the Iris Clinic, an eating disorder clinic designed specifically for dancers. Steph shares her journey as a dancer, her personal struggles with body image, and the experiences that inspired her to create a safe and supportive space for dancers to seek professional help. Still actively dancing herself, Steph offers unique insights into balancing a demanding career with a commitment to mental health advocacy. This is a must-listen for anyone passionate about dance, wellness, and creating positive change in the arts.

You can find the Iris Clinic on Instagram here

@irisclinicuk

https://www.instagram.com/irisclinicuk?igsh=MjR0eDhyZ2Q4aDht

TikTok:

https://www.tiktok.com/@irisclinicuk?_t=8ruyr1ckJRw&_r=1

http://www.irisclinic.co.uk/

or email

[email protected]

Thank you so much for tuning and be sure to leave a review in the episode 🙏

Have a great week

Romy

This week on The Hard Corps Podcast, I sit down with Chloe Misseldine, a rising star and principal dancer with American Ballet Theatre at just 22 years old. We dive deep into her inspiring journey—from her early years in ballet to climbing the ranks within one of the world's most prestigious companies.

Chloe shares her mindset, the challenges she's overcome, and what it takes to maintain focus and passion in such a demanding art form. Whether you're a dancer or just curious about the world of ballet, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!

You can find Chloe on instagram @Chloemisseldine

Thank you so much for tuning and be sure to leave a review in the episode 🙏

Have a great week

Romy