
The Transformative Dance Podcast - with Melanie Gard
by The Transformative Dance Podcast - with Melanie Gard
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Estimated from 1 chart position in 1 market.
By chart position
- 🇦🇺AU · Performing Arts#1645K to 30K
- Per-Episode Audience
Est. listeners per new episode within ~30 days
2.5K to 15K🎙 Weekly cadence·18 episodes·Last published 11mo ago - Monthly Reach
Unique listeners across all episodes (30 days)
5K to 30K🇦🇺100% - Active Followers
Loyal subscribers who consistently listen
1.5K to 9K
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On the show
Recent episodes
S1 Ep17: Unlocking the Secrets to Dance Studio Success with Sally Prendergast: Marketing, Inclusivity, and More
May 31, 2025
39m 48s
S2 Ep18: How a Missed Audition Inspired Deborah Searle to Launch ‘Dance Informa’ Magazine + EXCLUSIVE Vic Dance Festival Announcement!
Mar 15, 2025
30m 27s
S1 Ep16: Mike Harrison-Lamond’s Vision for a Safer, Smarter, and More Profitable Dance Industry
Jan 18, 2025
1h 01m 39s
S1 Ep15: How Natalie Yates is Transforming Communities Through Dance
Jan 11, 2025
48m 51s
S1 Ep14: How Ballet Sparked Vivienne Pearson’s Journey to Award-Winning Writing Success!
Jan 4, 2025
36m 21s
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| Date | Episode | Description | Length | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5/31/25 | ![]() S1 Ep17: Unlocking the Secrets to Dance Studio Success with Sally Prendergast: Marketing, Inclusivity, and More | On this episode of the Transformative Dance Podcast, we chat with Sally Prendergast, marketing guru and former dance studio owner with over 30 years in the dance industry.As the founder of Dance Studio Marketing and creator of programs like the Dance Studio Accelerator, Sally shares her expertise on:✅ Boosting enrolments with smart social media strategies✅ Adapting to a post-COVID world of neurodiverse classrooms✅ Building sustainable and thriving studios💡 Discover how to stay ahead of the curve in the evolving dance industry and why inclusivity and listening to your customers are the keys to long-term success. | 39m 48s | ||||||
| 3/15/25 | ![]() S2 Ep18: How a Missed Audition Inspired Deborah Searle to Launch ‘Dance Informa’ Magazine + EXCLUSIVE Vic Dance Festival Announcement! | 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/ | 30m 27s | ||||||
| 1/18/25 | ![]() S1 Ep16: Mike Harrison-Lamond’s Vision for a Safer, Smarter, and More Profitable Dance Industry | On this episode of the Transformative Dance Podcast, Mike Harrison-Lamond, Director of the Australian Academy of Dance and founder of Calibrate Dance, shares his groundbreaking approach to dance education and studio management. From advocating for safer industry standards to empowering studio owners with innovative tools, Mike's insights are reshaping the dance community.💡 Discover how Mike’s strategic mindset and passion for the arts are helping studio owners thrive while keeping students safe and inspired.Tune in now to hear how Mike is making waves in the dance world—and how you can too!Find out more about Mike's work here:www.calibratedance.com.au | 1h 01m 39s | ||||||
| 1/11/25 | ![]() S1 Ep15: How Natalie Yates is Transforming Communities Through Dance | 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. | 48m 51s | ||||||
| 1/4/25 | ![]() S1 Ep14: How Ballet Sparked Vivienne Pearson’s Journey to Award-Winning Writing Success! | What do pirouettes and Pulitzer-worthy prose have in common? Just ask Vivienne Pearson, the incredible freelance writer whose bylines light up publications like The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age, and Good Weekend.In the latest episode of the Transformative Dance Podcast, Vivienne shares the untold story of how her love for dance paved the way for her thriving writing career. Starting in a ballet class at just three years old, Vivienne’s journey took her from the stage to the page, with a few surprising detours along the way—including stints as an occupational therapist and researcher.Discover how the discipline, creativity, and resilience she honed in the dance studio have shaped her storytelling craft. From school fundraising exposés to her heartfelt dance photography, Vivienne’s diverse career proves that the lessons of dance extend far beyond the studio.💡 Read the highlights and listen to the full episode to learn:- Why a compliment about her feet changed her perspective on dance forever- How being “thrown in the deep end” at 16 shaped her teaching philosophy- Her advice for finding confidence in your unique strengths—both in dance and life | 36m 21s | ||||||
| 12/28/24 | ![]() S1 Ep13: Police Officer Turned Dance Studio Visionary: How Jen Dalton Built a Thriving Dance Empire and Transformed Studio Ownership! | 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. | 34m 18s | ||||||
| 12/21/24 | ![]() S1 Ep12: How Rachael Shiels started building an award-winning dance studio when she was just 20 years old! | *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 listed at the end of the show notes, or call 000 in an emergency.Welcome to the latest episode of the Transformative Dance Podcast! Today, we are thrilled to feature Rachael Shiels, a trailblazer in dance education and the director of Theatre De La Danse, an award-winning studio in Brighton, Melbourne.With over 35 years of dedication to the dance industry, Rachael has cultivated a thriving community and a studio renowned for its exceptional culture and commitment to positive, inclusive dance education. Her journey began at just five years old when ballet became her prescribed therapy and lifelong passion.Rachael’s candid reflections on the challenges she faced as a young dancer—including harsh critiques and outdated teaching methods—are both relatable and inspiring. She used these experiences to fuel her mission to create a nurturing and empowering environment for her students.In this episode, Rachael discusses:How her unique childhood experience in dance shaped her teaching philosophy. The pivotal moment she took over Theatre De La Danse at the age of 20. Her passion for mentoring young teachers and fostering resilience in students. The need for greater regulation in the dance industry to protect and support the next generation of dancers. Whether you're a dance educator, studio owner, or simply someone who loves the transformative power of dance, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration.If this podcast brought up difficult emotions or you or someone you know needs help, please reach out to the resources below:Mental 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 | 36m 36s | ||||||
| 12/14/24 | ![]() S1 Ep11: PART 2 - Jason Teasdale Spills Secrets on Work Ethic, Inclusivity and Surviving the Dance Industry | 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. | 1h 14m 49s | ||||||
| 11/10/24 | ![]() S1 Ep10: PART 1 - Can you start dancing at age 14 and still become a professional dancer? How Jason Teasdale pushed boundaries to become one of Australia’s most sought-after dance professionals | Hear Melanie Gard interview dance studio owner and educator, Jason Teasdale, in Part 1 of a very interesting deep dive into the world of pre-professional dance and the issues often holding young dancers back in the dance industry. Stay tuned for Part 2 of this riveting conversation! | 48m 50s | ||||||
| 11/2/24 | ![]() S1 Ep9: A ‘Gentle Loving Wrecking Ball’ - How Holly Diggle is Making Space for Neurodivergent Kids, Teens and Adults to Thrive in the Dance Studio | 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! | 38m 19s | ||||||
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| 10/26/24 | ![]() S1 Ep8: How Samantha Grant Built a Dance Empire from Scratch — And What She’s Doing Next | In this episode of the Transformative Dance Podcast, we chat with Samantha Grant, Director and Principal of Diamond Valley Dance Academy. With over two decades of experience and extensive training in Cecchetti Ballet, Sam shares her journey from student to studio owner; reflecting on the challenges and rewards of building a successful dance school.We dive into her passion for mentoring teachers, her work with the Studio Evolution program, and the importance of creating lasting friendships and connections through dance.Join us for a heartwarming conversation filled with insights on leadership, dance education, and the power of community. | 30m 01s | ||||||
| 10/19/24 | ![]() S1 Ep7: From Studio Owner to Starting a PhD: Kaitlin Hague's Groundbreaking Research on Early Specialisation in Dance | 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. | 37m 49s | ||||||
| 10/12/24 | ![]() S1 Ep6: From Ballet to Ballroom: How Rachel Fuga Balances Passion, Motherhood, and Dance Studio Success! | In this episode of the Transformative Dance Podcast, host Melanie Gard sits down with her longtime friend and accomplished dance educator, Rachel Fuga. With over 40 years of dance experience and a deep passion for teaching, Rachel shares her inspiring journey from a young ballet student to becoming a professional ballroom champion and dance studio owner. She opens up about the unique challenges of balancing a career in dance, motherhood, and how dance has shaped both her life and her students’ lives. From funny childhood memories to insights into nurturing young dancers, this conversation is filled with warmth, wisdom, and inspiration for dance teachers, studio owners, and dance enthusiasts alike. | 41m 12s | ||||||
| 10/5/24 | ![]() S1 Ep5: From Moulin Rouge to Studio Owner: The Journey of Dance Powerhouse Kym Degenhart | 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. | 35m 30s | ||||||
| 9/28/24 | ![]() S1 Ep4: How Prioritising Health Transformed Stacey Morgan's Dance Career and Leadership | In this heartfelt conversation, Stacey Morgan shares her inspiring journey in dance, reflecting on the powerful lessons she learned from her teacher, Miss Francesca. Stacey discusses the balance between genuine praise and tough love, emphasising the importance of authentic feedback to help dancers feel truly seen and valued. As studio owners and educators, Stacey and Mel explore how to maintain this authenticity, especially as the pressures of the year mount.Stacey opens up about her struggles balancing a busy life—raising children, running a dance studio, and managing her other businesses. She candidly shares how she learned to prioritise her health, adopting the mantra “body before business” this year. By scheduling daily self-care, Stacey has found that when she takes care of her body, she brings more energy, joy, and focus to her teaching, parenting, and business roles. She also touches on the importance of self-compassion, recognising that perfection isn't achievable, but consistency is.Listeners will be inspired by Stacey’s journey to find balance and the power of self-care in becoming a better teacher, leader, and parent. The episode wraps up with tips for navigating the dance studio environment while maintaining personal well-being and supporting students' growth with thoughtful, meaningful feedback.https://www.simplystaceymorgan.com/ | 32m 31s | ||||||
| 9/21/24 | ![]() S1 Ep3: From Dancer to Global Leader: How Jane Grech Built a Dance Empire and Revolutionised Student Teaching | 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 | 41m 26s | ||||||
| 9/21/24 | ![]() S1 Ep2: How Kiandra Harmen Turned Her Early Dance Struggles into a Dream Academy that Rejects Competitiveness | In this episode, we chat with Kiandra Harmen, a dedicated studio owner and dance educator, whose early dance experiences and memories have deeply shaped her approach to building a nurturing and supportive environment for young dancers.From her first dance class as an energetic toddler, influenced by her ballroom dancer mother, to her formative years of navigating different studios, Kiandra reflects on the moments and people who shaped her journey. She shares how her childhood teacher's warmth and encouragement, despite her "two left feet," left an indelible mark on her vision for her own studio, Reflections Dance Academy.Throughout the conversation, we explore the importance of creating a positive, collaborative dance environment, steering away from the toxic competitiveness Kiandra once experienced as a teen. She opens up about the challenges of maintaining a nurturing space in an industry that sometimes prioritizes awards and results over student well-being. Kiandra’s mission is clear: dance is about more than perfect technique; it’s about building confidence, forming connections, and creating lifelong memories. | 28m 37s | ||||||
| 9/21/24 | ![]() S1 Ep1: Why Karen Malek Chose Teaching Over the Stage - The Untold Story Behind Her Dance Legacy | *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. | 41m 39s | ||||||
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Chart Positions
1 placement across 1 market.
Chart Positions
1 placement across 1 market.












