The Brainy Ballerina Podcast

Ashley Thorndike is a licensed clinical professional counselor, longtime dance educator, and founder of Dance and College Counseling. With a PhD in Dance Studies, an MEd in Counselor Education, and a BFA in Modern Dance, she brings a rare combination of mental health expertise and firsthand academic experience to college and career planning for dancers. Ashley and I are both products of college dance programs and have gone on to mentor dancers through this process, so I absolutely loved connecting over this topic! Our conversation is jam-packed with everything from the complex admissions process to building a broad, sustainable career in dance. Key "Pointes" from this Episode: * Ashley's winding path into dance and her academic journey through the University of Utah, the University of Virginia, and Ohio State University where she became the first person to earn a PhD in dance studies. * The biggest mistakes dancers make when applying to college dance programs. * How families can explore financial options when loans and personal resources do not cover the cost of a dance education. * How to identify the right college fit as a dancer and what to look for during your search. * The importance of moving beyond a one-lane mindset and exploring the many paths available within the dance world. * Why college is a uniquely valuable time to explore interests beyond dance. * How a long, meaningful dance career can take many different shapes, even beyond performing on stage. * What dance faculty are looking for at auditions, based on Ashley's experience serving on an admissions committee. * How to approach your interview as a dance applicant and what questions you should and should not be asking. * Advice for parents who feel uncertain about their child pursuing dance as a college and career path. Connect with Ashley: Ashley's College Planning Guide: https://www.danceandcollegecounseling.com/guide Ashley's Website: https://www.danceandcollegecounseling.com/ Follow Ashley on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danceandcollegecounseling/ Links and Resources: SHOP MSeam Apparel: https://mseamapparel.com/ (use code BRAINY25 at checkout for 25% off all items) SHOP ORZA: www.orzabrand.com [http://www.orzabrand.com/] ($20 off all Orza Pro® 2.0 ballet shoes June 22nd through the 28th with ORZA day deals - no code needed!) Let's connect! MY WEBSITE: thebrainyballerina.com [http://thebrainyballerina.com/] INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/thebrainyballerina [http://instagram.com/thebrainyballerina] Schedule your complimentary career consultation: https://www.thebrainyballerina.com/career-mentoring Questions/comments? Email me at caitlin@thebrainyballerina.com

In this episode of The Brainy Ballerina Podcast, I'm joined by former professional dancer and Arts in Health professional Kate Webb Berk to explore the powerful connection between dance and health. Kate shares her journey from dancing professionally with Verb Ballets (now Ohio Contemporary Ballet) to pursuing a master's degree in Arts in Medicine at the University of Florida, where she focuses on social prescribing and arts-based health interventions. We dive into the growing field of arts in health, why dance is uniquely impactful for mental and physical wellbeing, and how movement and community can combat the loneliness epidemic. This conversation is both deeply validating for dancers and eye-opening for anyone interested in the science behind why dance matters. Key "Pointes" in this Episode: * What "social prescribing" is and how it's changing healthcare systems * Why dance is considered one of the most effective arts in health interventions * How dancers can reconnect with the initial joy that brought them to dance in the first place * The powerful physiological and emotional benefits of community and shared movement * Why the arts are not luxuries but an intrinsic part of us and truly essential to human health (backed by research!) Connect with Kate WEBSITE: https://artsinmotionwellness.com/ INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/katestahgram [http://instagram.com/katestahgram] Resources Mentioned in this Episode: * Art Cure: The Science of How the Arts Save Lives [https://amzn.to/4dfCgCE] by Dr. Daisy Fancourt (affiliate link) * University of Florida Arts in Medicine Program [https://arts.ufl.edu/programs-schools/center-for-arts-in-medicine/] * Jameel Arts & Health Lab [https://www.jameelartshealthlab.org/] * Ohio Social Prescribing Collaborative [https://ohiosocialprescribingcollaborative.com/] SHOP MSeam Apparel: https://mseamapparel.com/ (use code BRAINY25 at checkout for 25% off all items) SHOP ORZA: www.orzabrand.com [http://www.orzabrand.com/] (use code BRAINYBALLERINA for 10% off) Let's connect! My WEBSITE: thebrainyballerina.com [http://thebrainyballerina.com/] INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/thebrainyballerina [http://instagram.com/thebrainyballerina] Questions/comments? Email me at caitlin@thebrainyballerina.com

Physiotherapist and dance medicine specialist Erika Mayall, founder of Allegro Performance + Wellness in Vancouver, BC, joins us to share expert guidance on managing and preventing injuries during a dancer's busiest seasons. Erika breaks down why high-stakes periods like auditions, competitions, and intensives carry such elevated injury risk, and what dancers can do to protect themselves physically, mentally, and emotionally. She walks us through how to build a smarter annual training calendar, how fatigue directly increases injury risk, and practical strategies for recovery even when a full night's sleep isn't realistic. Key "Pointes" from this Episode: * Why auditions, competitions, and intensives are the highest-risk times of year for dancers. * The physical and emotional/mental aspect of dance injuries. * Warning signs that a dancer may be heading toward injury. * How to tell the difference between normal muscle soreness and an injury. * What a well-structured dance season should look like and when to prioritize strength and flexibility vs. rest and recovery. * The science behind fatigue and injury risk. * Practical tips for recovery when getting more sleep isn't possible. Connect with Erika: Follow Erika on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dancephysioerika/ Allegro Performance's Website: https://www.allegroperformance.com/ Listen to The Dance Physio Podcast: https://www.allegroperformance.com/podcast Links and Resources: BRANDLLET: https://www.brandllet.com/ Complimentary Career Mentoring Consultation: https://www.thebrainyballerina.com/career-mentoring Let's connect! MY WEBSITE: thebrainyballerina.com [http://thebrainyballerina.com/] INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/thebrainyballerina [http://instagram.com/thebrainyballerina] Schedule your complimentary career consultation: https://www.thebrainyballerina.com/career-mentoring Questions/comments? Email me at caitlin@thebrainyballerina.com This episode was brought to you by the Pivot Ball Change [https://www.instagram.com/pivotballchange/] Network.

In this episode of The Brainy Ballerina Podcast, I'm joined by my mom, Brenda Younker, for an honest conversation about what it's really like to raise a professional dancer. After hearing from so many parents who feel overwhelmed trying to navigate the ballet world, I decided to bring my mom on the pod to share her firsthand experience. We dive into everything, including the whirlwind of pre-professional training, summer intensives, injuries, college decisions, and ultimately building a professional dance career. From backstage memories and pointe shoe fittings to navigating casting disappointments and learning how to communicate through difficult decisions, this episode is filled with insight, humor, and heartfelt advice for dancers and parents alike. Key "Pointes" in this Episode * My late start in ballet at the age of 10 and how quickly my training accelerated * The emotional and logistical reality of navigating summer intensives and pre-professional opportunities * How parents learn the "language" of the ballet world alongside their dancers * The pressure of making career-defining decisions at a very young age * Choosing between college and a direct professional path * The importance of dancers developing identities outside of ballet * Advice for parents on supporting their dancer without overstepping * Why dancers need trusted adults and mentors outside of their parents Links and Resources: Brandllet: www.brandllet.com [http://www.brandllet.com/] ORZA: www.orzabrand.com [http://www.orzabrand.com/] (use code BRAINYBALLERINA for 10% off) Let's connect! My WEBSITE: thebrainyballerina.com [http://thebrainyballerina.com/] INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/thebrainyballerina [http://instagram.com/thebrainyballerina] Questions/comments? Email me at caitlin@thebrainyballerina.com

In this episode of The Brainy Ballerina Podcast, I'm joined by Courtney Anderson - former dancer with San Francisco Ballet, The Royal Ballet of Flanders, The Suzanne Farrell Ballet, and now the founder of The Workshop. The Workshop is a series of 5 week-long summer intensives created for professional dancers seeking deeper artistic growth, expanded versatility, and meaningful creative process. Dancers will work with internationally recognized choreographers and répétiteurs including: * Jim Vincent, Répétiteur for Nacho Duato * Glenn Edgerton, Répétiteur for Jiri Kylian * Courtney Richardson, Répétiteur for David Dawson * Cindy Welik- Salgado, Répétiteur for Crystal Pite * Jill Johnson, Répétiteur for William Forsythe * Omar Roman De Jesus, Director of Boca Tuya * Sidra Bell, Director of Sidra Bell Dance New York * Keerati Jinakunwiphat, Choreographer * Babatunji, Choreographer * Houston Thomas, Choreographer This intensive is perfect for professional dancers looking to explore movement more deeply, refine their partnering and improvisation skills, and strengthen their artistic voice, particularly when approaching contemporary work or new creations. Key "Pointes" in this Episode: * Key differences between dancing in the U.S. vs. Europe * Why artistry (not just technique) is what actually gets you hired * How The Workshop is filling a major gap in the dance industry * Why investing in your training as a professional can change the trajectory of your career Learn more about The Workshop: WEBSITE: www.theworkshop.dance [http://www.theworkshop.dance/] INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/theworkshop.dance [http://instagram.com/theworkshop.dance] Links and Resources: ORZA: www.orzabrand.com [http://www.orzabrand.com/] (use code BRAINYBALLERINA for 10% off) Let's connect! My WEBSITE: thebrainyballerina.com [http://thebrainyballerina.com/] INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/thebrainyballerina [http://instagram.com/thebrainyballerina] Questions/comments? Email me at caitlin@thebrainyballerina.com

This week on The Brainy Ballerina Podcast, I'm joined by the incredible Tiffany Rea-Fisher: Artistic Director of EMERGE125, award-winning choreographer, and a true force in the dance world. Tiffany shares her journey from growing up as a competition kid on the West Coast, to discovering modern dance at SUNY Purchase, and now celebrating her 10th season leading EMERGE125, a contemporary modern dance company in New York City. Tiffany's perspective on leadership, from servant leadership to a more collaborative, transformative model, is something every dancer (and human!) can learn from. I am incredibly inspired by the way she builds a company culture rooted in both rigor and joy, where dancers feel seen, valued, and empowered to bring their full selves into the room. Key "Pointes" from this Episode: * What Tiffany looks for when hiring dancers * Her concept of "disruption through inclusion" and why diversity is a creative superpower * The role artists play in shaping culture and reminding us to be brave * How motherhood has influenced her leadership style and boundaries * Building a financially sustainable arts organization through challenging times * Why community is the key to longevity in the dance industry Connect with Tiffany: EMERGE125 WEBSITE: https://emerge125.org/ EMERGE125 INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/emerge125/ TIFFANY INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/treafisher/ Links and Resources: ORZA: Use code 'BRAINYBALLERINA' for 10% off: https://orzabrand.com/ Complimentary Career Mentoring Consultation: https://www.thebrainyballerina.com/career-mentoring Let's connect! MY WEBSITE: thebrainyballerina.com [http://thebrainyballerina.com/] INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/thebrainyballerina [http://instagram.com/thebrainyballerina] Schedule your complimentary career consultation: https://www.thebrainyballerina.com/career-mentoring Questions/comments? Email me at caitlin@thebrainyballerina.com This episode was brought to you by the Pivot Ball Change [https://www.instagram.com/pivotballchange/] Network.

Anna Mai Fitzpatrick, Principal Dancer with Riverdance, joins The Brainy Ballerina Podcast ahead of the company's April 14-16th performances at the Overture Center in Madison, WI. Anna shares an inside look at her journey from a young Irish dancer to performing on stages around the world with Riverdance. We dive into the unique demands of Irish dance, what it's like to transition from competitive dancer to professional performer, and how Anna found her voice as a Principal Dancer. Key "Pointes" in this Episode: * The unique technique and structure of Irish dance * What it's like to transition from the competition world to a professional show * The challenge of finding individuality within an iconic role * What life on tour is actually like (physically and mentally) * The importance of teamwork in a touring company * Behind-the-scenes: warm-ups, recovery, and show routines * What makes Riverdance 30: The New Generation so special Connect with Anna: INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/annamaifitz/ [http://instagram.com/annamaifitz/] Connect with Riverdance WEBSITE: https://riverdance.com/ INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/riverdance/ [http://instagram.com/riverdance/] Links and Resources: Chronicle Studio APP: https://chroniclestudio.passion.io/ INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/chronicle_cdt_studio/ [http://instagram.com/chronicle_cdt_studio/] FACEBOOK: facebook.com/chronicleCDTstudio [http://facebook.com/chronicleCDTstudio] MORE INFO: allongefilms.com/chroniclestudio [http://allongefilms.com/chroniclestudio] 1-1 Career Mentoring: book your complimentary career call [https://www.thebrainyballerina.com/career-mentoring] Let's connect! My WEBSITE: thebrainyballerina.com [http://thebrainyballerina.com/] INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/thebrainyballerina [http://instagram.com/thebrainyballerina] Questions/comments? Email me at caitlin@thebrainyballerina.com

In this episode of The Brainy Ballerina Podcast, I'm joined by former professional dancer and writer Gavin Larsen and renowned dance photographer Gene Schiavone to discuss their collaborative book Infinite Steps: Thirty-Three Dancers and Their Lives in Ballet, a powerful collection that pairs intimate essays with striking photography. Together we explore how storytelling and imagery reveal the humanity behind ballet, the diverse paths dancers take, and the deeper purpose that sustains a life in dance. Key Points in this Episode: * How Gene's original book idea evolved into a collaboration with Gavin to bring deeper storytelling to his photographs * The beauty of preserving a dancer's fleeting career in photographs and essays * The importance of showing the humanity behind the dancers * The commonalities they saw between the dancers interviewed: a strong sense of purpose drives dancers more than external success, the daily work matters more than performance highs, and every career path is unique Connect with Gavin: WEBSITE: www.gavinlarsen.com [http://www.gavinlarsen.com/] INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/gavinalarsen [http://instagram.com/gavinalarsen] EPISODE 62: The Truth About Being a Ballerina with Gavin Larsen [https://open.spotify.com/episode/6zjsfLC9P3zHJ1mckh2dNq?si=ImN-05rNRcC5NlCDbM2Vjw] Connect with Gene: WEBSITE: www.geneschiavone.com [http://www.geneschiavone.com/] INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/geneschiavoneofficial [http://instagram.com/geneschiavoneofficial] Get your copy of Infinite Steps: AMAZON: https://amzn.to/4lUWSUS (affiliate link) UNIVERSITY PRESS OF FLORIDA: https://floridapress.org/9780813081502/infinite-steps/ Links and Resources: Join the Brainy Ballerina Book Club [https://www.thebrainyballerina.com/the-brainy-ballerina-book-club] Connect with Chronicle Studio APP: https://chroniclestudio.passion.io/ INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/chronicle_cdt_studio/ [http://instagram.com/chronicle_cdt_studio/] FACEBOOK: facebook.com/chronicleCDTstudio [http://facebook.com/chronicleCDTstudio] MORE INFO: allongefilms.com/chroniclestudio [http://allongefilms.com/chroniclestudio] 1-1 Career Mentoring: book your complimentary career call [https://www.thebrainyballerina.com/career-mentoring] Let's connect! My WEBSITE: thebrainyballerina.com [http://thebrainyballerina.com/] INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/thebrainyballerina [http://instagram.com/thebrainyballerina] Questions/comments? Email me at caitlin@thebrainyballerina.com

In this episode of the Brainy Ballerina Podcast, I'm joined by dance body image mentor Katrena Cohea to unpack a recent pop-culture moment that sparked major debate in the ballet and opera communities. After a prominent actor publicly dismissed ballet and opera as art forms that "no one cares about anymore," dancers and arts organizations responded with outrage, humor, and viral marketing. We unpack why the comment struck such a nerve for dancers who have devoted our lives to the art form. But beyond the initial reaction, we dive deeper into the bigger questions the moment raises: Is ballet evolving fast enough? What barriers are keeping audiences away? And how can dancers, teachers, and companies ensure ballet continues to thrive for generations to come? Key Points in this Episode: * How ballet's reputation as "stuffy" or elitist affects public perception * The reality of underfunding in the arts and its impact on progress * The importance of evolving traditions while preserving what makes ballet special * How toxic training environments can drive dancers (and future audiences!) away * The role of marketing, storytelling, and social media in attracting new audiences * How small actions by teachers, dancers, and ballet lovers can create meaningful change in the ballet world Connect with Katrena: INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/yourbodyimagebff [http://instagram.com/yourbodyimagebff] Related Episodes: 76. Love Your Body (or Don't) with Katrena Cohea [https://open.spotify.com/episode/6aLZFZmGvLyyi8TxhsNuUK?si=1-UaQEDERUOU8U542rswyg] Let's connect! My WEBSITE: thebrainyballerina.com [http://thebrainyballerina.com/] INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/thebrainyballerina [http://instagram.com/thebrainyballerina] 1-1 CAREER MENTORING: book your complimentary career call [https://www.thebrainyballerina.com/career-mentoring] Questions/comments? Email me at caitlin@thebrainyballerina.com

As dancers, we tend to be creative people. During our training, our focus is on technique and artistry as opposed to the business aspect of our career. As we advance into the professional world and are offered our first contract, it can be a rude awakening. Most dancers don't know what they should be looking for, or even how contract negotiations will develop. In this episode, I'm joined by ballet dancer-turned-attorney Cielomar Puccio, founder of Brandllet Law to get the scoop on what dancers need to know. Together, we break down the essential parts of a dance contract in clear, practical terms so dancers can confidently understand what they're agreeing to before they sign. From salaries and rehearsal schedules to exclusivity clauses and shoe stipends, this episode covers the details that can make a big difference in a dancer's daily life and long-term career. Key Points in this Episode: * The most important things dancers should look for in a contract * The difference between employees and independent contractors * Important clauses to look out for including exclusivity, intellectual property, moral, termination, and automatic renewal * What dancers can realistically negotiate and how to do so professionally and confidently * Red flags to watch out for in both the actual contract and the negotiation Disclaimer: A contract is a legal document subject to the laws, rules, and regulations of each particular jurisdiction in which they are executed. In the United States, each state has specific laws, rules, and regulations that apply to them. If you have questions about your issues in relation to a contract consult with an attorney barred in the state in which the contract is executed before you proceed with the agreement. The content and information provided in this podcast is intended for general informational purposes only and not to provide legal advice or opinion. Connect with Brandllet Law: WEBSITE: www.brandllet.com [http://www.brandllet.com/] INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/brandlletlaw [http://instagram.com/brandlletlaw] Links and Resources: 1-1 Career Mentoring: book your complimentary career call [https://www.thebrainyballerina.com/career-mentoring] Get 20% off your first order of ALOHA protein bars: https://aloha.com/BRAINYBALLERINA Blog Post: Is Your Contract Knowledge En Pointe? [https://www.thebrainyballerina.com/blog/dancers-is-your-contract-knowledge-en-pointe] Let's connect! My WEBSITE: thebrainyballerina.com [http://thebrainyballerina.com/] INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/thebrainyballerina [http://instagram.com/thebrainyballerina] Questions/comments? Email me at caitlin@thebrainyballerina.com

Felix Molinero Del Paso of Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo joins The Brainy Ballerina Podcast ahead of the company's February 26th performance at the Overture Center in Madison, WI. Raised in Spain and later trained at the collegiate level in Germany, Felix shares the bold email he sent that led to a life-changing opportunity with the world-renowned all-male ballet company. Known for parodying the conventions of classical ballet while maintaining exceptional technical standards, Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo requires its dancers to master both male and female roles, on and off pointe. Felix pulls back the curtain on the training demands, the artistry behind comedic ballet, the realities of touring life, and the creative personas he embodies onstage, proving that ballet can be both technically brilliant and wildly entertaining. Key "Pointes" from this Episode: • How Felix's ballet training in Spain and Germany prepared him for a professional career • The email that led to his audition and eventual contract with Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo • What makes The Trocks unique in the ballet world • Training for both male and female roles, including dancing on pointe • The skill required to balance high-level technique with comedic timing • The realities and challenges of being part of a touring company • The development of his onstage personas "Holly Dey-Abroad" and "Bruno Backpfeinfengesicht" • How comedic ballet attracts new and nontraditional audiences to the art form Follow Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lesballetstrockadero/ Visit Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo's Website: https://trockadero.org/ Links and Resources: Complimentary Career Mentoring Consultation: https://www.thebrainyballerina.com/career-mentoring Let's connect! My WEBSITE: thebrainyballerina.com [http://thebrainyballerina.com/] INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/thebrainyballerina [http://instagram.com/thebrainyballerina] Questions/comments? Email me at caitlin@thebrainyballerina.com This episode was brought to you by the Pivot Ball Change [https://www.instagram.com/pivotballchange/] Network.

In this episode of The Brainy Ballerina Podcast, I'm joined by choreographer, educator, and former professional dancer Autumn Eckman for a thoughtful conversation about building a long, sustainable career in dance. From leaving home at a young age to embracing leadership, choreography, and academia, Autumn shares how curiosity and collaboration have shaped her path, and why a dance career doesn't have to follow just one track to be successful. Key Points in this Episode: * Why Autumn shifted from Houston Ballet Academy toward contemporary and jazz-focused work * How Autumn transitioned into choreography, teaching, and artistic leadership while still performing * The impact collaborating with composers has had on her choreographic career * How preparation and openness coexist in the studio * What led Autumn to pursue her MFA later in her career, and how academia offers a new lens on dance, research, and creativity * Listening to inner cues and values when deciding to change direction Connect with Autumn: WEBSITE: https://www.autumneckman.com/ INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/autumn__eckman [http://instagram.com/autumn__eckman] Links and Resources: 1-1 Career Mentoring: book your complimentary career call [https://www.thebrainyballerina.com/career-mentoring] Let's connect! My WEBSITE: thebrainyballerina.com [http://thebrainyballerina.com/] INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/thebrainyballerina [http://instagram.com/thebrainyballerina] Questions/comments? Email me at caitlin@thebrainyballerina.com

Auditioning for professional ballet companies is very different than auditioning for summer intensives, and that reality can catch even the most prepared dancers off guard. In this solo episode of The Brainy Ballerina Podcast, I'm pulling back the curtain on the audition process and sharing the lessons I learned the hard way while navigating company auditions across the country. All the things I wish someone had told me before stepping into the room. Key Points in this Episode: * Why professional company auditions operate differently from summer intensive auditions * When the audition actually begins * The unexpected mindset shifts dancers need when auditioning for contracts * What directors may be looking for behind the scenes (and why you often won't know it) * How to mentally survive the uncertainty, rejection, and waiting that come with audition season This episode is a must-listen for: * Aspiring professional ballet dancers * Pre-professional dancers transitioning into company auditions * Dancers feeling discouraged, confused, or stuck during audition season * Anyone who wants a more realistic, grounded understanding of how the ballet industry works 🎧 Tune in to hear the full conversation and walk into your next audition feeling more informed and empowered. Links and Resources: The Brainy Ballerina Audition Hub: https://www.thebrainyballerina.com/auditionhub The Ultimate Audition Guide: https://www.thebrainyballerina.com/theultimateauditionguide Dance Audition Materials Audit: https://www.thebrainyballerina.com/digital-resources/p/dance-audition-materials-audit 1-1 Career Mentoring: book your complimentary career call [https://www.thebrainyballerina.com/career-mentoring] Let's connect! My WEBSITE: thebrainyballerina.com [http://thebrainyballerina.com/] INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/thebrainyballerina [http://instagram.com/thebrainyballerina] Questions/comments? Email me at caitlin@thebrainyballerina.com