The Transformative Dance Podcast - with Melanie Gard

This week on the Transformative Dance Podcast, I’m joined by the powerhouse behind Dance Informa and Victorian Dance Festival (VDF)—the incredible Deborah Searle!Deb’s journey is one of passion, innovation, and leadership in Australian dance. From starting Dance Informa to ensure dancers were always in the know, to leading VDF—Australia’s favourite dance festival—Deb has transformed the way our industry connects, learns, and grows.In this episode, we chat about: 💡 How missing a single audition inspired Deb to create Dance Informa 🎭 The evolution of VDF and why it remains a community over competition event 🌍 Bringing global dance opportunities to Australia—including RWS, Norwegian Cruise Lines AND an exciting NEW GUEST at this year’s VDF! 🎶 The power of networking and how dancers can create their own pathwaysThis conversation is packed with insights, inspiration, and behind-the-scenes stories from one of Australia’s most influential dance leaders.Book Tickets for the Victorian Dance Festival 23-25 May 2025 here: https://www.victoriandancefestival.com/Check out DANCE INFORMA here: https://danceinforma.com.au/

Discover how Natalie Yates, Director of NY Dance, grew her values-based dance studio into a community hub with over 500 students. In this inspiring episode of the Transformative Dance Podcast, Natalie shares her journey, the secrets to fostering a family-like studio atmosphere, and how she created thriving side businesses like Little Dance Stars and The Dancer's Warehouse. Whether you're a dance professional or an aspiring entrepreneur, you’ll find actionable insights and heartfelt stories in this episode.

Jen Dalton’s story is nothing short of remarkable. From humble beginnings teaching a few students in a garage to running a studio with over 1,000 students, Jen’s journey as a dance studio owner has been one of passion, perseverance, and purpose.In the latest episode of the Transformative Dance Podcast, Jen shares how her family’s love for dance shaped her early years and inspired her to start teaching at just 12 years old. With the support of her community, Jen built a thriving dance school while simultaneously juggling a career as a police officer.In our conversation, Jen dives into:How her dual career shaped her approach to child safety and transparency in the dance industry. The pivotal moment when she decided to sell her studio after 30 years and transition into mentoring other studio owners. Her vision for the future of dance, where community and collaboration triumph over competition. Now the founder of the Dance Studio Scaled Mastermind, Jen works closely with high-achieving studio owners, helping them simplify their operations, grow sustainably, and avoid burnout. Her philosophy? Success isn’t just about numbers—it’s about culture, mental health, and impact.Whether you're a studio owner, teacher, or someone passionate about dance education, Jen’s story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when you lead with heart.

Last week’s episode was just the beginning! Jason Teasdale and I had such a rich, meaningful conversation that we couldn’t stop at one episode. So, we’re back with Part Two, diving even deeper into the realities of the dance world, the challenges of teaching, and the wisdom that comes with two decades of experience.In this episode, Jason shares insights into the resilience required for a career in dance, the shifting dynamics of our industry, and what it means to inspire the next generation of dancers. We laugh about the quirks of being dance teachers (hello, Kmart earrings and clear nail polish hacks!) and tackle the big questions: diversity, inclusivity, and leadership in the arts.We also touch on the beauty of finding "your people" in dance and how vital it is to create spaces where students, particularly male dancers, can truly belong. Jason’s humour, honesty, and dedication to the craft shine through, and I promise you’ll come away inspired.So, grab your headphones and join us for Part Two of this unforgettable conversation. Whether you’re a dancer, teacher, or someone who loves the art form, this episode will resonate with you.

WARNING: EXPLICIT LANGUAGE Welcome to the Transformative Dance Podcast! Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with the incredible Holly Diggle, founder and director of Dance Northside in Canberra. Holly’s dance journey began in Edinburgh, where she fell in love with the power of movement in a vibrant, community-oriented space. From these beginnings, she’s crafted a studio culture of inclusivity and joy, providing a safe haven for over 400 dancers at Dance Northside.Since purchasing the studio in 2006, Holly has dedicated herself to creating an environment where students can find belonging and thrive, no matter their background or skill level. With certifications in dance, yoga, acrobatics, and now pursuing a Diploma in Counselling, Holly is committed to personal growth and supporting others on their journey.Tune in as we explore her story, her passion for neurodivergent inclusivity, and her innovative Neurostars program, which caters to students with unique sensory needs. Holly’s dedication to building a safe, joyful dance space is a true inspiration!

We are thrilled to welcome Kaitlin Hague, the brilliant founder and director of Bayside Dance, to the Transformative Dance Podcast! After earning a Bachelor of Creative Industries in dance (with distinction) from QUT, Kaitlin toured extensively, performed in corporate settings, and developed a passion for teaching. With a career spanning over a decade in arts education and performance, she now balances studio leadership with academic research. Join us as Kaitlin shares insights into talent development, early specialisation, and her vibrant career in dance.

In this episode of the Transformative Dance Podcast, host Melanie Gard chats with the dynamic Kym Degenhart, owner and director of Bom Funk Dance Studio in Canberra. With an impressive 10-year international career that includes performing as a Can Can dancer at the Moulin Rouge and leading dance productions in Tokyo, Kym’s story is a testament to resilience and passion.Kym delves into her journey from childhood dance classes to global stages, and how she now channels her love of dance into teaching and studio ownership. She shares invaluable insights on navigating the challenges of the dance industry, the impact of failure, and the joys of mentorship. Tune in to discover how Kym has transformed her own career and how she continues to inspire the next generation of dancers.

In this insightful conversation with Jane Grech, dance educator, entrepreneur and industry trialblazer, we explore the personal journey of a passionate dancer who reflects on the responsibility of staying committed to her art. "It was my job to keep myself at dance," Jane shares, unpacking how her love for dance wasn't about external motivation but an internal drive that kept her returning to class—even when it felt tough.Drawing parallels between her childhood experiences and today's different parenting styles, she touches on independence, the financial sacrifices her family made, and the role these factors played in her long-standing career in dance. With over 25 years of experience in dance education, Jane has dedicated her career to not only teaching but also empowering others to lead. As the founder of DanceStep, the world's first formalized dance student teacher education program, she has revolutionized the way young dancers transition into teaching roles, creating a ripple effect that reaches far beyond the studio.Jane's influence extends globally, working with over 300 studios and impacting the lives of more than 4,000 students. Jane's days are filled passionately supporting dance studio owners, sharing power and powerful strategies designed to build purpose, people, profits and policy.A mother of three, Jane is also passionate about cultivating a joy-filled life, and she brings that same energy and enthusiasm to her work, inspiring everyone she meets to do the same.You can find Jane at @dancestudiosucess on Instagram or join her free Facebook group “The Collective” here - https://www.facebook.com/groups/1517939674967824

*Trigger Warning* This episode contains brief discussions of abuse. If you or anyone you know needs help please reach out to one of the resources at the bottom of the show notes, or call 000 in an emergency.In this episode of the Transformative Dance Podcast, we dive into the incredible journey of Karen Malek, a trailblazer in the Australian dance community.From her early days as a young dancer in regional Victoria to becoming a renowned educator and co-founding Transit Dance, Karen’s passion for teaching has always been at the forefront. Despite the opportunity to pursue a career as a professional dancer, Karen knew early on that her calling was to pass on the knowledge she had gained to others.We explore how she transitioned from student to teacher, the sacrifices made to support her children's artistic endeavors, and the importance of building a well-rounded education in dance. This episode celebrates the often-overlooked aspiration of teaching in the dance world, honoring the value of shaping future generations through knowledge, understanding, and compassion."I always knew I wanted to be a teacher. It was very clear in my mind. So I have no regrets about not pursuing a career as a dancer. I wanted to pass on the knowledge I had gained to others, and I think my teacher found her replacement that day." - Karen MalekMental Health Resources in Australia:Lifeline Australia: 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention. Call 13 11 14 or visit lifeline.org.au Kids Helpline: Free 24/7 online and phone counselling service for young people aged 5 to 25.Call 1800 55 1800 or visit kidshelpline.com.au 1800 Respect: A national sexual assault, domestic family violence counseling service that provides support and information.1800 737 732 or visit https://www.1800respect.org.au/ The Butterfly Foundation: Support for those experiencing eating disorders and body image issues.Call 1800 33 4673 or visit butterfly.org.au In an emergency please call 000 - you are not alone.