Have you ever felt like you don't deserve your accomplishments, even when you've worked incredibly hard for them? In this episode, we're talking about imposter syndrome—what it is, why so many dancers and dance educators experience it, and how perfectionism and negative self-talk can keep us from recognizing our own growth.

Drawing from both research and personal experience, I share why our beliefs about ourselves often matter more than our achievements, and how we can begin to challenge the stories we tell ourselves. We'll explore practical ways to reframe negative thinking, use self-talk as a tool for growth, and create healthier learning environments for our students.

Enjoy!

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RDT Website: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/homepage 

Email me: [email protected]

Let’s connect on Instagram! @theresilientdanceteacherpod

Are you heading into a new season of teaching feeling stuck, creatively drained, or overwhelmed by too many ideas? You're not alone. In this episode, we're talking about simple, practical ways to reconnect with your inspiration and reignite your passion as a dance educator.

Whether you're planning classes, creating choreography, or simply looking for a fresh mindset, this episode will help you refocus your creativity with actionable strategies you can start using right away.

In this episode, we'll discuss:

• Why getting organized can create more space for creativity.
• How hobbies and experiences outside of dance can make you a stronger artist and teacher.
• Simple ways to refresh your perspective, from taking a nature walk to exploring a museum or learning a new skill.
• A powerful monthly reflection practice: choosing one thing to let go of, one thing to call in, and one thing to "research" as you continue growing as an educator.

Remember, inspiration isn't something you have to wait for—it's something you can intentionally cultivate. Join me for a conversation that will help you step into your next teaching season feeling energized, curious, and ready to create.

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow dance educator who could use a little creative spark. Happy dancing!

Join my mailing list: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/resilientnewsletter 

Order your copy of the RDT Reboot: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/reboot 

RDT Website: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/homepage 

Email me: [email protected]

Let’s connect on Instagram! @theresilientdanceteacherpod

In this special guest interview, I sit down with fellow dance educator Alice Bruter to discuss the lessons that have shaped her teaching journey. From rediscovering dance after stepping away from it, to navigating the challenges of starting a teaching career, we explore the experiences that have influenced her approach in and out of the studio.

We also dive into her perspective as a dance competition adjudicator, what she's learned from watching dancers take the stage, and the advice she wishes she could give her younger dancer self. Whether you're a new teacher, an experienced educator, or simply passionate about dance, this conversation is full of honest reflections, encouragement, and practical wisdom.

Let's dive in!

Join my mailing list: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/resilientnewsletter

Order your copy of the RDT Reboot: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/reboot

Email me: [email protected]

Instagram - @theresilientdanceteacherpod

In this episode, we're diving into what it really means to teach with kind authority. How do you create a classroom where students respect you, feel safe, and are inspired to grow—without relying on fear, harshness, or losing the professional boundaries that help everyone thrive?

If you've ever found yourself wondering, "Am I being too strict?" or "Am I being too lenient?" you're not alone. Whether you're a brand-new dance teacher or have years of experience, finding the balance between warmth and leadership can be one of the most challenging parts of teaching.

In this conversation, I share lessons I've learned throughout my own teaching journey, including how to:

• Clearly communicate expectations in a way that feels encouraging rather than intimidating.
• Lead with curiosity before jumping to consequences when challenges arise.
• Build trust and respect through consistent, professional conduct.

We'll also talk about why discipline and empathy can coexist, how healthy boundaries create a positive studio culture, and why calm, confident leadership ultimately benefits both you and your students.

If you're looking to cultivate a classroom built on mutual respect, professionalism, and genuine joy for learning, this episode is for you.

Join my mailing list: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/resilientnewsletter

Order the RDT Reboot: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/reboot

Email me: [email protected]

Welcome back for Part 2 with Brandon Coleman! If you missed episode 20, I highly recommend going back to listen to it before this episode for a little more context on where we are picking up from. Brandon is a wonderful NYC-based choreographer, educator, and performer with so much knowledge and experience to share, and I just really appreciated our conversation. In part 2 we explore:

• finding your path in your dance teaching career
• performing history
• dance teaching experiences
• and MORE!

Join my email list: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/resilientnewsletter

Welcome to episode 20! On this first time two-part series on the RDT podcast, I sit down with Brandon Coleman. Brandon is an NYC-based choreographer, educator, and performer. He is a former cast member and rehearsal director for Punchdrunk’s SLEEP NO MORE in NYC and has worked with companies including Visceral Dance Chicago, KEIGWIN + COMPANY, the Metropolitan Opera ballet, VIM VIGOR Dance Company and Hubbard Street Dance Chicago. Brandon currently leads classes at Steps on Broadway and Peridance in NYC and has been commissioned by various contemporary companies and universities across the country.

In Part 1 we discuss numerous elements of the dance world including:

• early career
• navigating connections
• becoming a dance teacher inspired by those who shaped our individual journeys
• and MORE!

Email me: [email protected]

RDT Website: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/homepage

Join my mailing list: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/resilientnewsletter

Connect with Brandon: @itsbrandoncoleman (Instagram)

Every student wants to know they matter—and as dance teachers, we have more influence than we often realize.

In this episode, I'm sharing simple, intentional ways to help every student feel seen, valued, and supported in your classroom. Reflecting on my own experiences as a student, I talk about the lasting impact of feeling overlooked versus receiving genuine encouragement, and why the little moments of connection can shape a dancer's confidence for years to come.

We'll discuss practical strategies you can start using right away, including:

• Using every student's name alongside meaningful, body-neutral positive feedback
• Incorporating mental and emotional check-ins
• Creating opportunities for one-on-one connection during class
• Using reflection prompts to better understand your students' goals and challenges
• Building a classroom culture where healthy friendships and belonging can flourish
• Making space for creativity, exploration, and play

These practices may seem small, but they can have a profound impact on the way your students experience your classroom—and themselves.

Whether you teach preschool dancers or pre-professionals, this episode will encourage you to lead with intention and create an environment where every student feels like they belong.

Join my mailing list: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/resilientnewsletter

Order your copy of the RDT Reboot: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/reboot

Email me: [email protected]

In this episode, we're exploring how to define and confidently own your teaching style so you can lead your classes with authenticity, purpose, and confidence. We'll discuss ways to clarify the experience you want your students to have, identify the energy you bring into every class, establish healthy professional boundaries, and embrace the artistic voice that feels most natural to you.

We'll also talk about why your students don't need a copy of another teacher—they need the version of you that teaches with heart, intention, and confidence.

Whether you're just beginning your teaching journey or looking to reconnect with your purpose, this conversation will help you step into your role with greater clarity of your teaching philosophy.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• How to define the experience you want your students to leave with.
• Why your personal energy shapes every class you teach.
• The importance of setting healthy, professional boundaries.
• How to embrace your authentic artistic voice while continuing to grow.
• Why discovering your teaching style is an ongoing journey—not something you have to perfect overnight.

Join my mailing list: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/resilientnewsletter

RDT Reboot:

https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/reboot

Download Dance Philosophy Template:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1T0PpjAu5g4XTZ4juVwqWL89BjRAfvm4P/view?usp=sharing

Website Homepage: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/homepage

In this episode, I sit down with Shannon Dooling-Cain, the founder of The Holistic Dance Teacher to explore what it truly means to take a holistic approach to dance education. Moving beyond the latest buzzword, we unpack how teaching the whole dancer—not just their technique—can create more confident, creative, and resilient students.

We discuss tools and strategies that every dance teacher can use to support their students' physical, emotional, and personal development, the career experiences that inspired the creation of The Holistic Dance Teacher, and simple changes teachers can make to bring more intention into every class.

We also dive into the role of play and exploration in dance training, including dance games that foster creativity, connection, and learning.

Whether you're a dance teacher looking for fresh inspiration or passionate about creating meaningful learning experiences, this conversation is packed with practical ideas and thoughtful insights to inspire you!

Join the newsletter: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/resilientnewsletter

Email me: [email protected]

RDT Products: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/educational-resources

Strength and conditioning is one of the most debated topics in the dance world—but how can dance teachers use it safely, effectively, and realistically within the studio setting?

In this episode, I'm sharing my perspective on strength and conditioning for dancers, including why I believe both traditional strength training and dance-specific conditioning have a place in a dancer’s development. We’ll talk about the role of cross-training, and why effective conditioning isn’t about choosing between the gym and the studio—it’s about giving dancers the tools they need to become stronger, more resilient, and better prepared for the demands of their art form.

I also dive into the reality that many dancers could benefit from more education around muscular strength, posture, alignment, and injury prevention—and how dance teachers can help support that growth within their scope of practice.

In this episode, you'll learn:
• What cross-training really means for dancers
• Why dance-specific conditioning still has value
• How to introduce strength training concepts safely in the studio
• The importance of teaching proper form before increasing difficulty
• Creative ways to use props and conditioning games to keep students engaged

Plus, I share three practical strategies for incorporating conditioning into your classes without overwhelming yourself or your students:

1. Do your research and start small
2. Use props to create fun and engagement
3. Build a supported conditioning plan that works within your class structure

Enjoy! Check out my resource for helping dance teachers incorporate age-appropriate conditioning into their classes with ease:

The Student Dancer Conditioning Curriculum: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/conditioning

13 Dance Conditioning Games (FREE Download): https://drive.google.com/file/d/1pbz65aGd-GlfdW2SkCjXMsVR6MFSj9J0/view?usp=sharing

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