Swing To The Rhythm with Damon D'Amico and Gilbert Raya

Damon just returned from Forever Country Dance Fest 2025 (Irving, TX) after teaching three Country Two-Step workshops . In this recap he covers what he saw across bar dancing, Country Swing, West Coast Swing, line dancing, and Two-Step —plus floor-etiquette notes (stopping/standing), practical Two-Step tips , and final takeaways. Thanks to event directors Steven & Lacey for having us!

Why do some ladies feel “heavy” to dance with? It’s not what you think. Damon and Gilbert cover mindset, timing vs. acting early, positive following, what leaders can do better, and the #1 frame mistake that kills connection.

The AI revolution is here — even for dancers. In this episode, Gilbert and Damon break down how they spent 700–1,000 hours using AI in just 5 months to grow D’Amico Dance instead of going back for a $150,000 MBA. We talk about AI, dance, marketing, and why the people with fundamentals (business, teaching, dance) will win when AI becomes normal in 2026. In this episode: 0:00 – 1:51 AI, dance, marke...

Our Facebook question pulled in 170+ comments in 24 hours —so we brought it to the show. Damon & Gilbert unpack: what “amateur” really means, when it’s okay to charge, how social media muddies the waters, and how dancers can vet teachers (and level up) without getting burned. We cover: • What is an “amateur” dancer? • Buyer-beware checks before you pay anyone • Are we celebrating average? • So...

Leaders: stop muscling, start leading. In Ep. 13 we show how to be deliberate (not “strong”)—telegraphing without force, resetting with basics, and the mindset that gets you a second dance. Plus: “Dance with her brain and her body will follow”—what it actually means on the floor. Resources & courses: https://linktr.ee/damicodance • $12 Crash Course Bundle (ebook + WCS intro) • $10 / 10-Day Anc...

Our first-ever guest joins Swing to the Rhythm — Dr. Jacob Kendall, an aging expert with 4 graduate degrees and lived experience including two heart surgeries. Damon & Gilbert discuss how to age well, why dance boosts health and connection, and what’s broken (and fixable) in the U.S. healthcare system. What you’ll learn: Daily practices to age better Positive impacts of dance (and ageism in da...

Ever wish you could sit in on a real West Coast Swing class and hear the exact cues that fix anchors fast? In this behind-the-scenes episode of Swing to the Rhythm , Damon D’Amico opens up a live D’Amico Dance class — no polish, no posing — just real coaching, mistakes, and breakthroughs. What you’ll learn in this episode: How the female West Coast Swing anchor is built from the ground up Damon’s...

Why are there so many versions of Country Two Step? From sideways travel to strange footwork, the confusion is real — and it’s holding back new dancers, followers, and even instructors. In this episode of Swing to the Rhythm , Damon D’Amico and Gilbert Raya break down the history, common mistakes, and modern variations of Two Step, explaining why clarity and consistency matter more than ever. This...

In this hard-hitting episode of Swing to the Rhythm , Damon D’Amico and Gilbert Raya tackle one of the most pressing issues in the dance world: fake, unqualified, or underprepared instructors. Too many students waste time and money on teachers who can’t deliver real results. So how do you protect yourself, your wallet, and your growth? Damon and Gilbert share insider knowledge, personal stories, a...

Ever been bumped, blocked, or confused on the dance floor? In this episode of Swing to the Rhythm , Damon D’Amico and Gilbert Raya break down the unspoken rules of social dance etiquette — the stuff that most dancers are never taught but absolutely need to know. From brand-new beginners to seasoned dancers, everyone makes mistakes. Damon and Gilbert share how to avoid common pitfalls, improve danc...

Are gender roles still relevant in partner dance? In this bold episode of Swing to the Rhythm , Damon D’Amico and Gilbert Raya tackle one of the most controversial topics in West Coast Swing and Country Dance: who leads, who follows, and how those roles are changing. From the rise of “degenderization” in social dancing to politics in competition, they break down how role-switching, same-sex partne...

Country music has changed — but what does that mean for dancers? In this episode of Swing to the Rhythm , Damon D’Amico and Gilbert Raya explore how music in country dance halls has evolved from 1987 to 2025. From DJ choices to dancer expectations, they uncover why the dance floor often feels disconnected — and what we can do to fix it. Whether you’re a DJ, dancer, or bar owner, this candid discus...

In this behind-the-scenes episode of Swing to the Rhythm , Damon D’Amico and Gilbert Raya dive headfirst into the most intense choreography routine of their dance careers at Wild Wild Westie 2025 . With only 15 hours of prep, they learn and perform a full routine taught by four champion-level pros: 👑 Gary & Susan – 3x US Open Champions 🌍 Thibault & Nicole – 3x World Champions From grueli...

In this inspiring episode of Swing to the Rhythm , Damon D’Amico and Gilbert Raya explore how partner dancing transforms lives — from shy beginners to confident performers and teachers. Whether you’re nervous about your first class or looking to grow as an instructor, this conversation reveals how dance can unlock confidence, connection, and self-expression. What you’ll learn in this episode: Real...

What’s the #1 mistake new dance instructors make? In this episode of Swing to the Rhythm , Damon D’Amico and Gilbert Raya break down the transformation from student to teacher — and reveal what separates great coaches from the rest. You’ll hear Damon’s unique perspective as a pro dancer and studio owner, including the D’Amico Dance teaching method, red flags to avoid in the classroom, and how to b...

In this heartfelt episode of Swing to the Rhythm , Damon D’Amico opens up about his early life, family struggles, and how dance gave him purpose. From breakdancing as a teen, to being recruited into ballroom, to teaching country dance at Denim & Diamonds, Damon shares the pivotal experiences that shaped his career and inspired thousands of students. Joined by co-host Gilbert Raya, Damon also d...

In this premiere episode of Swing to the Rhythm , Damon D’Amico shares how dance shaped his life, why it’s a lifelong path to growth, and how partner dancing creates lasting impact — mentally, physically, and emotionally. Joined by co-host Gilbert Raya (dance coach and long-time student), Damon opens up about his family, the 55+ dance community, and the science behind why dance captivates people....