The Brainy Ballerina Podcast

Choosing a ballet variation can feel overwhelming. With so many options, and so much pressure to choose the “right” one, it can be easy to focus only on what looks impressive or what might earn the highest score. In this episode, I’m joined by Carrie Euker, founder of Étoile Dance Competition, to talk about how dancers, teachers, and parents can approach variation selection (and the entire competition dance landscape) more thoughtfully. Key “pointes” in this episode: Why age-appropriateness should be one of the first considerations when choosing a variation How the character and personality of a variation can help guide the decision How teachers can adapt variations to meet a dancer where they are technically How to balance a dancer's strengths, challenges, artistry, and personality Why choosing a variation shouldn't be about finding the one that will simply get the highest score The importance of giving young dancers opportunities to develop as artists and performers, rather than rushing them into mature roles Why competitions can be an opportunity for education and development, not just placement Looking beyond the most prestigious opportunities and considering what is actually the right fit for an individual dancer Why dancers need experience with corps de ballet work, not just solos Why the process of learning and rehearsing is just as important as the final performance Carrie also shares great perspective on the pressure young dancers face today and the value in letting dancers develop at their own pace. Ultimately, the goal isn't to find the variation that makes a dancer look the most impressive. It's to find something that allows them to grow, learn, and actually be themselves onstage. Connect with Étoile Dance Competition WEBSITE: https://www.etoilecomp.com/brainy INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/etoiledancecomp Links & Resources: REGISTER FOR SEE AND BE SEEN: https://eisenhowerdance.org/beseen ORZA: www.orzabrand.com (use code BRAINYBALLERINA for 10% off) Let’s connect! My WEBSITE: thebrainyballerina.com INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/thebrainyballerina Questions/comments? Email me at caitlin@thebrainyballerina.com

In this week’s episode of The Brainy Ballerina Podcast, I’m joined by New York City Ballet Soloist Sara Adams. In this episode, Sara shares her journey from taking her first ballet class on Cape Cod to training at the School of American Ballet and ultimately joining New York City Ballet. We talk about the transition from student to professional, finding confidence, dealing with comparison, and what she's learned from nearly two decades in the company. We also talk about pursuing a college degree while dancing professionally, finding interests outside of ballet, and why Sara believes dancers should have more fun and trust their own timeline. Key “Pointes” in this Episode What it was really like to move to New York at 13 to attend the School of American Ballet The unexpected role that became a turning point in Sara's path toward becoming a soloist at NYCB How Sara managed college while dancing full-time The fulfillment she finds serving as a mentor for the next generation of dancers entering New York City Ballet What 18 years in one company has taught her about comparison, confidence, and becoming comfortable with who you are Why Sara still feels like she “needs” to dance after nearly two decades as a professional Connect with Sara INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/sara_jane_adams Links & Resources: REGISTER FOR SEE AND BE SEEN: https://eisenhowerdance.org/beseen ORZA: www.orzabrand.com (use code BRAINYBALLERINA for 10% off) Let’s connect! My WEBSITE: thebrainyballerina.com INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/thebrainyballerina Questions/comments? Email me at caitlin@thebrainyballerina.com

Audition season can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to. In this solo episode of The Brainy Ballerina Podcast , I’m walking you through my recommended timeline for preparing for professional dance auditions, starting in September and continuing through the end of audition season. Instead of waiting until January to start thinking about auditions, you’ll learn how to use the fall months to get your materials, finances, company research, and audition strategy in place, so you can head into the new year feeling prepared and confident. Audition Resources: FREE DOWNLOAD // Audition Roadmap: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/3oZ0IJD/auditionroadmap 1-1 Career Mentoring: https://www.thebrainyballerina.com/career-mentoring The Intentional Career Handbook: https://www.thebrainyballerina.com/intentional-career-handbook The Ultimate Audition Guide: https://www.thebrainyballerina.com/theultimateauditionguide The Dance Company Database: https://www.thebrainyballerina.com/digital-resources/p/dance-company-database Dance Audition Materials Audit: https://www.thebrainyballerina.com/digital-resources/p/dance-audition-materials-audit Links & Resources: REGISTER FOR SEE AND BE SEEN: https://eisenhowerdance.org/beseen ORZA: www.orzabrand.com (use code BRAINYBALLERINA for 10% off) Let’s connect! My WEBSITE: thebrainyballerina.com INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/thebrainyballerina Questions/comments? Email me at caitlin@thebrainyballerina.com

In this week’s episode of The Brainy Ballerina Podcast, I sat down with Garrett Anderson, Artistic Director of Ballet Idaho, to talk about his journey from professional dancer to arts leader and what it really takes to build a lasting career in dance. Garrett spent 20 years performing with companies including San Francisco Ballet, The Royal Ballet of Flanders, Trey McIntyre Project, and Hubbard Street Dance Chicago before stepping into his current role. We talk about how he got his start in ballet, the mentors who shaped him along the way, and the pivotal moments that took him across the country and overseas in pursuit of new artistic challenges. This conversation is packed with insight for anyone curious about the discipline and curiosity it takes to sustain a career in the arts. Key "Pointes" from this Episode: How Garrett got into ballet and the role his mom played in his early training The transition from student to professional dancer, including meeting his wife along the way Moving between companies with distinct styles, and how curiosity fueled those transitions What allowed Garrett to sustain a 20-year professional dance career His unplanned transition from performer to Artistic Director How his perspective on the dance industry has shifted since becoming a director Rethinking risk-taking in ballet and what contemporary dance techniques could bring to the art form Connect with Garrett: Visit Ballet Idaho’s Website: https://balletidaho.org/ Follow Ballet Idaho on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/balletidaho Follow Ballet Idaho on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/balletidaho Links and Resources: SHOP MSeam Apparel: https://mseamapparel.com/ (use code BRAINY25 at checkout for 25% off all items) Register for the “See & Be Seen” College Recruitment Event: https://eisenhowerdance.org/beseen Let’s connect! MY WEBSITE: thebrainyballerina.com INSTAGRAM: 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, former professional ballerina Caroline Simpkins shares her inspiring journey from professional ballerina to earning a PhD in biomechanics and creating Ballet Science, a platform dedicated to making dance research accessible to dancers, teachers, and educators. After dancing professionally for 12 years, Caroline found herself facing burnout, uncertainty about her future, and a life-changing thyroid cancer diagnosis at just 29 years old. That experience became the catalyst for reimagining her career, leading her from ballet to scientific research and ultimately to a mission of improving dancers' health through evidence-based education. In this episode, Caroline shares what it was really like to step away from performing, explore careers in healthcare and academia, and advocate for ballet research in spaces where dance wasn't always understood. Whether you're beginning to think about life after performing or simply looking for reassurance that your next chapter can be just as meaningful as your first, this conversation offers practical advice and plenty of hope. Key “Pointes” in this Episode Caroline's journey from professional ballet dancer to PhD Why she chose to leave performing after a 12 year career How a thyroid cancer diagnosis reshaped her career path The challenges of pursuing ballet-related research in academia How to communicate the value of dance to people outside the dance world The transferable skills dancers bring to any profession Why adaptability matters more than having the "perfect" career plan Advice for dancers preparing for life after performing How Ballet Science is bridging the gap between research and the dance community Connect with Caroline WEBSITE: https://ballet.science/ YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@ballet.science INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/ballet.science FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/ballet.science BALLET SCIENCE PODCAST: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ballet-science/id1815952731 Links & Resources: REGISTER FOR SEE AND BE SEEN: https://eisenhowerdance.org/beseen SHOP MSeam Apparel: https://mseamapparel.com/ (use code BRAINY25 at checkout for 25% off all items) Let’s connect! My WEBSITE: thebrainyballerina.com INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/thebrainyballerina Questions/comments? Email me at caitlin@thebrainyballerina.com

What does it take to go from a competition dance studio to the stage of New York City Ballet? In this episode of The Brainy Ballerina Podcast , I’m joined by Vanessa Mlyniec, who recently completed her first season in the corps de ballet at New York City Ballet. Vanessa shares the path that led her from Rhode Island to the School of American Ballet, what drew her to Balanchine technique, and the whirlwind moment she unexpectedly learned she would be joining NYCB for The Nutcracker . We also dive into the realities of life inside one of the world's most prestigious ballet companies - from learning choreography at lightning speed and staying healthy through demanding performance schedules to finding artistry, overcoming perfectionism, and embracing the joy of performing. Key “Pointes” in this Episode: Vanessa's journey from competition dance to classical ballet Falling in love with Balanchine technique and the School of American Ballet Moving to New York as a teenager to train full-time The surprise moment she was offered an apprenticeship with New York City Ballet Adjusting from student life to the fast pace of a professional company What a typical day looks like during the NYCB season Favorite memories from her first professional season Life outside the studio, including baking, knitting, and exploring New York City Connect with Vanessa INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/vanessamlyniec Links & Resources: REGISTER FOR SEE AND BE SEEN: https://eisenhowerdance.org/beseen SHOP MSeam Apparel: https://mseamapparel.com/ (use code BRAINY25 at checkout for 25% off all items) Let’s connect! My WEBSITE: thebrainyballerina.com INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/thebrainyballerina Questions/comments? Email me at caitlin@thebrainyballerina.com

It’s no secret that many dancers in the industry are underpaid and overworked. And while we’re pushing for change, the reality is that many of us will take on side gigs to support ourselves financially, especially when we’re first starting out. I found it necessary to have a side gig during my entire professional ballet career in order to support myself. Of course, some of these gigs were better than others and eventually I fell into my dream job! Have you ever wondered what kind of side gigs might work for a professional dancer? Tune in to this encore of one of my most popular episodes as I dish about the ways I supplemented my income throughout my professional dance career. Links and Resources: SHOP MSeam Apparel: https://mseamapparel.com/ (use code BRAINY25 at checkout for 25% off all items) 1-1 Career Mentoring: book your complimentary career call Let’s connect! My WEBSITE: thebrainyballerina.com INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/thebrainyballerina Questions/comments? Email me at caitlin@thebrainyballerina.com

What does it take to sustain a professional dance career for 15 years while always finding new ways to grow as an artist? In this episode I’m joined by Madison Ballet company artist Shannon Quirk to discuss her journey from a young ballet student in Southern California to a longtime professional dancer and co-founder of the newly launched North Star Dance Theatre. Shannon reflects on her decision to pursue a BFA at UC Irvine, the realities of transitioning from college into the professional world, and the lessons she's learned through rejection, leadership changes, and career longevity. She shares how her perspective on artistry has evolved over the years (and why enjoying the process may be the most important career advice she can offer). We also dive into the creation of North Star Dance Theatre, a new summer dance company dedicated to providing performance opportunities for dancers and choreographers while fostering artistic collaboration and new work. Whether you're an aspiring professional dancer, a seasoned artist, or someone interested in arts leadership, this episode is full of wisdom about building a sustainable and fulfilling career in dance. Key "Pointes" from this Episode: Why Shannon chose to go to college for dance and why the decision came easily to her What it felt like to realize dance had become her paying career Navigating three different artistic directors over 15 years with the same company Taking on a mentorship, "motherly" role for younger dancers Her favorite roles, including one she was thrown into unexpectedly Starting her own company, North Star Dance Theatre, and balancing it with her professional career Connect with Shannon: Visit North Star Dance Theatre’s Website: https://www.northstardancetheatre.com/ Follow North Star Dance Theatre on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northstardancetheatre/ Visit Madison Ballet’s Website: https://www.madisonballet.org/ Follow Madison Ballet on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madisonballet/ Links and Resources: SHOP MSeam Apparel: https://mseamapparel.com/ (use code BRAINY25 at checkout for 25% off all items) Register for the “See & Be Seen” College Recruitment Event: https://eisenhowerdance.org/beseen Let’s connect! MY WEBSITE: thebrainyballerina.com INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/thebrainyballerina Schedule your complimentary career consultation: https://www.thebrainyballerina.com/career-mentoring Questions/comments? Email me at caitlin@thebrainyballerina.com

What if becoming a stronger dancer had less to do with pushing harder and more to do with creating space to breathe? In this episode of The Brainy Ballerina Podcast , I’m joined by former professional dancer and founder of Inner Studio, Rylie Beck, to talk about burnout, dancer identity, nervous system regulation, and the mental habits that so many dancers struggle with behind the scenes. Rylie shares her journey from student to professional, and how repeated experiences with burnout ultimately led her to create Inner Studio - an online platform offering guided meditations, visualizations, and wellness resources designed specifically for dancers. This episode is so healing and necessary to start unpacking the pressures dancers face to constantly achieve and the culture of self-criticism that is so prevalent in our industry. You’ll walk away not only feeling completely seen but with practical tools to start building a healthier relationship with dance. Key “Pointes” in this Episode: The realities of burnout in the professional dance world The culture of negative self-talk and perfectionism in dance Why rest feels so difficult for many dancers Simple nervous system regulation techniques dancers can use every day The benefits of meditation, visualization, and journaling How mental rehearsal can improve performance without physical strain The inspiration behind Inner Studio and how it supports dancers Why dance educators should introduce wellness tools earlier in training The importance of trusting your own inner wisdom throughout your career Connect with Rylie WEBSITE: https://inner-studio-affiliate-program.peachs.co/a/caitlin-sloan-1 (affiliate link) INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/innerstudio.app/ Links & Resources: REGISTER FOR SEE AND BE SEEN: https://eisenhowerdance.org/beseen SHOP MSeam Apparel: https://mseamapparel.com/ (use code BRAINY25 at checkout for 25% off all items) Let’s connect! My WEBSITE: thebrainyballerina.com INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/thebrainyballerina Questions/comments? Email me at caitlin@thebrainyballerina.com

What happens when a ballet company invests in its dancers' futures both on and off the stage? In this episode of The Brainy Ballerina Podcast, I’m joined by Jill Marlow Krutzkamp, former professional dancer and current Artistic Director of the Louisville Ballet Studio Company. Jill shares the story behind an exciting partnership between Louisville Ballet and Bellarmine University that allows dancers to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Arts Administration while continuing their professional training. Key “Pointes” in this Episode: Jill's professional journey from dancer to arts leader The partnership between Louisville Ballet and Bellarmine University Why higher education matters for aspiring professional dancers Arts administration as a career pathway Preparing dancers for life beyond performance Building sustainable careers in the dance industry The value of dual-career development for young artists Connect with Jill LOUISVILLE BALLET WEBSITE: louisvilleballet.org LOUISVILLE BALLET STUDIO COMPANY: louisvilleballet.org/studio-company/ INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/jillekrutz Links & Resources: SHOP MSeam Apparel: https://mseamapparel.com/ (use code BRAINY25 at checkout for 25% off all items) SHOP ORZA: www.orzabrand.com (use code BRAINYBALLERINA for 10% off) Let’s connect! My WEBSITE: thebrainyballerina.com INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/thebrainyballerina Questions/comments? Email me at caitlin@thebrainyballerina.com

In this episode of The Brainy Ballerina Podcast, I’m joined by professional dancer Ashley Talluto to talk about the realities of building a career in New York City. Ashley dives into how she transitioned from ballet into musical theater and how auditions, casting, and unions work in the musical theater world. She also shares what it’s like to tour with major productions like West Side Story , Flashdance , and An American in Paris and gives us invaluable insight into the life of a swing and dance captain. This episode is full of wisdom from a veteran dancer. If you’ve ever considered what it might be like to build a dancer career outside of the ballet company ecosystem, this is a must-listen! Key “Pointes” in this Episode: Why Ashley chose college and how the Boston Conservatory prepared her for professional dance life The realities of moving to New York City as a dancer (survival jobs, balancing auditions, and building a sustainable career) The differences between ballet and Broadway audition processes The pros and cons of joining Actors’ Equity Why performance quality matters just as much as technique in musical theater What life is actually like on national and international tours The intense responsibility of being a swing in a Broadway production What a dance captain does and why the role is so important Connect with Ashley WEBSITE: Ashleytalluto.com INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/ashleytalluto Links & Resources: SHOP MSeam Apparel: https://mseamapparel.com/ (use code BRAINY25 at checkout for 25% off all items) SHOP ORZA: www.orzabrand.com (use code BRAINYBALLERINA for 10% off) Let’s connect! My WEBSITE: thebrainyballerina.com INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/thebrainyballerina Questions/comments? Email me at caitlin@thebrainyballerina.com

In this solo episode of the Brainy Ballerina Podcast, I’m sharing practical advice for professional dancers and aspiring teachers looking to connect with studio owners and build a sustainable teaching career in the dance industry. Drawing from my own experiences as an experienced dance educator and former school director, I’m breaking down the realities of finding teaching work, from preparing your materials and making initial contact with a studio to understanding what studio owners actually value most in a teacher. Key “Pointes” in this Episode: Why professional dance experience does not automatically make someone a strong teacher The importance of researching a studio before applying Why flexibility can help newer teachers gain more opportunities How your teaching priorities may evolve throughout different seasons of life What to include in a professional teaching portfolio How to identify and market your “unique selling points” as a dance educator Why teaching should be approached as a true profession, not just a side hustle Links & Resources: BLOG POST: https://www.thebrainyballerina.com/blog/booking-dance-teaching-gigs-tips-for-connecting-with-studio-owners SHOP MSeam Apparel: https://mseamapparel.com/ (use code BRAINY25 at checkout for 25% off all items) Let’s connect! My WEBSITE: thebrainyballerina.com INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/thebrainyballerina Questions/comments? Email me at caitlin@thebrainyballerina.com

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 ($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 INSTAGRAM: 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 professional dancer (and one of my former students!) Kendall Lademann for a full-circle conversation on the unexpected twists and turns that have shaped her dance career. We dive into Kendall’s transition from student to professional at Mareck Dance, including what it was like dancing alongside former teachers and how that environment helped her grow as both an artist and an adult. We also talk about how Kendall moved forward with her dance career after Mareck Dance unexpectedly folded, finding new opportunities at Lexington Ballet. Kendall is a true testament to the fact that dance careers never travel in a straight line. She shares so much thoughtful advice for aspiring professional dancers about taking risks, handling rejection, and treating people with kindness in the small world of dance. Key “Pointes” in this Episode: How the teachers, choreographers and directors Kendall has worked with have grown her into the artist she is today How the pandemic unexpectedly launched her professional dance career Going from dancing as a student in “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” to dancing the title role Navigating the sudden closure of Mareck Dance and finding a new path Moving away from home and starting fresh with Lexington Ballet Unique performance experiences including dancing in a distillery, performing in a music video, and starring as Charlie Chaplin in “A Charlie Chaplin Christmas” with Lexington Ballet Kendall’s passion for adaptive dance through Danceability and why teaching became one of the most meaningful parts of her career Connect with Kendall INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/kendall_lademann Links & Resources: SHOP MSeam Apparel: https://mseamapparel.com/ (use code BRAINY25 at checkout for 25% off all items) SHOP ORZA: www.orzabrand.com (use code BRAINYBALLERINA for 10% off) Let’s connect! My WEBSITE: thebrainyballerina.com INSTAGRAM: 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 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 Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Art Cure: The Science of How the Arts Save Lives by Dr. Daisy Fancourt (affiliate link) University of Florida Arts in Medicine Program Jameel Arts & Health Lab Ohio Social Prescribing Collaborative SHOP MSeam Apparel: https://mseamapparel.com/ (use code BRAINY25 at checkout for 25% off all items) SHOP ORZA: www.orzabrand.com (use code BRAINYBALLERINA for 10% off) Let’s connect! My WEBSITE: thebrainyballerina.com INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/thebrainyballerina Questions/comments? Email me at caitlin@thebrainyballerina.com

In this solo episode, I dive into everything dancers need to know to make the most of their summer intensives. Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a seasoned pre-professional, this episode is packed with insight to help you thrive physically, mentally, and emotionally during one of the most transformative times in your dance training. Key “Pointes” in this Episode 🩰Why summer intensives are critical for growth in technique, artistry, and professionalism 🩰The importance of journaling and reflection - before, during, and after 🩰Tips for adjusting socially and forming lasting connections 🩰Staying healthy : sleep, recovery, nutrition, and hydration 🩰Turning your summer intensive into an extended audition and possible job opportunity. Related Blog Posts: ➡️ 3 Benefits of Attending a Summer Dance Intensive ➡️ Pack Like a Pro: Essential Items for Your Summer Dance Intensive ➡️ Coping with Missing Home During your Summer Intensive ➡️ Everything Dancers Need to Know Before Their First Partnering Class Join the Conversation Head to my Instagram @TheBrainyBallerina and join my channel “Career Guidance for Dancers” to participate in future episode polls and get exclusive career tips straight to your inbox. Let’s connect! My WEBSITE: thebrainyballerina.com INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/thebrainyballerina 1-1 Career Mentoring: book your complimentary career call 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 INSTAGRAM: 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 Network.

In this episode of The Brainy Ballerina Podcast, I’m joined by Hayley Meier: dancer, choreographer, and educator currently serving as an Assistant Professor of Dance at the University of Las Vegas, Nevada Hayley shares her journey from competition studio training to intensive ballet education, and how she ultimately carved out a career that blends performance, choreography, and teaching. We talk about her time dancing with Rochester City Ballet and River North Dance Chicago, including the persistence it took to land her dream job and why not getting hired right away doesn’t mean “no” forever. We also dive into the emotional reality of unexpected career transitions, including the closure of River North, and how that pivotal moment led Hayley toward graduate school at her alma mater, the University of Arizona, and a new creative path in choreography and higher education. This conversation is full of honest insight on navigating uncertainty, building confidence through small daily habits, and why learning to love the process is essential for long-term success in dance. Key “Pointes” in this Conversation: Choosing college over a direct company path to pursue both ballet and jazz and how attending the University of Arizona opened up career opportunities Landing her dream job at River North Dance Chicago and the impact of River North’s unexpected closure on her dance career Navigating the freelance dance scene and redefining her identity beyond performing How graduate school opened the door to choreography and teaching What she loves about teaching at the collegiate level and developing artistry in dancers Connect with Hayley WEBSITE: www.hayleymeier.com INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/hayleymeier Links and Resources: Brandllet: www.brandllet.com ORZA: www.orzabrand.com (use code BRAINYBALLERINA for 10% off) Let’s connect! My WEBSITE: thebrainyballerina.com INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/thebrainyballerina Questions/comments? Email me at caitlin@thebrainyballerina.com

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 ORZA: www.orzabrand.com (use code BRAINYBALLERINA for 10% off) Let’s connect! My WEBSITE: thebrainyballerina.com INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/thebrainyballerina Questions/comments? Email me at caitlin@thebrainyballerina.com

In this episode of the Brainy Ballerina Podcast, I am joined by Stanton Welch, Artistic Director of Houston Ballet and internationally renowned choreographer. Stanton shares the unconventional path that led him to ballet, from growing up backstage with his parents, principal dancers with the Australian Ballet, to falling in love with dance at 16 and training at San Francisco Ballet School before joining The Australian Ballet. We talk about his transition from dancer to choreographer to artistic director, how his creative process has evolved over the years, and what inspires him when creating new works. Stanton also gives an inside look at how he programs seasons for Houston Ballet, what he looks for in dancers during auditions, and the type of culture he strives to create within the company. A major focus of this conversation is Youth America Grand Prix and Houston Ballet hosting the YAGP Finals for the first time. Stanton shares valuable advice for dancers navigating competitions, auditions, setbacks, and social media in today’s dance world. He discusses why competitions are about far more than winning, how directors actually evaluate dancers, and the importance of resilience and long-term career thinking. This episode is full of insight for aspiring professional dancers, teachers, and anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes realities of building a sustainable career in ballet. Key Points From This Episode: Why Stanton Welch didn’t start ballet until age 16 How he began choreographing while still dancing professionally and what keeps him inspired all these years later How Houston Ballet approaches company culture What makes a dancer stand out in auditions and competitions Connect with Stanton & Houston Ballet WEBSITE: https://www.houstonballet.org INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/houstonballet Links and Resources: Brandllet: www.brandllet.com ORZA: www.orzabrand.com (use code BRAINYBALLERINA for 10% off) Let’s connect! My WEBSITE: thebrainyballerina.com INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/thebrainyballerina Questions/comments? Email me at caitlin@thebrainyballerina.com