The Acrobatic Arts Podcast

From TV sets and stages to the studio floor, Christina Kotsopoulos brings her unique blend of artistry, athleticism, and teaching insight to this episode of The Acrobatic Arts Podcast. Christina shares how Acro helped her grow as both a performer and educator, how she overcame fear after a childhood injury, and what teachers can do to help students shine both safely and confidently. Plus: Get the...

Loren Dermody and Mandy Yip are back just in time for convention season! Tune in for laughs, fresh insights, and real talk on why teachers who keep learning light the way for their students. From new opportunities like Prodigy and Accelerate to the best booth parties around, this episode is your ticket to staying inspired, connected, and ahead of the curve—all while having a blast. Mandy Yip...

Tune in as Loren Dermody welcomes Leah Holliday for her first live podcast appearance. Together, they explore the ins and outs of the heli (helicopter cartwheel)—one of AcroDance's most eye-catching skills. Learn practical progressions, helpful drills, and teaching tips to help your dancers develop that signature swoop. If you're looking to add something special to your classes, this episode...

What makes a costume truly work for acro dancers? In this episode, host Loren Dermody talks with Lorianne Hagan and Claudia Reed, two seasoned professionals with deep roots in both dance and costuming, about the evolving world of acro and contemporary dancewear. They share their personal journeys, discuss how industry trends and teacher feedback are shaping costume design, and offer practical advi...

How can dance teachers and studio owners truly support their most flexible students? In this essential episode host Loren Dermody welcomes back Dr. Linda Bluestein, renowned physician, former dancer, and expert in hypermobility, for her sixth appearance during Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders Awareness Month. Dr. Bluestein reveals why early recognition of connective tiss...

In this episode, Acrobatic Arts Master Teacher Jemma Harris breaks down the deceptively tricky, yet totally adorable, Teddy Bear Headstand. Discover expert tips and progressions to help your students master this foundational acro skill. Build a solid base for future success for your students, with these skill-specific drills! About Jemma Jemma began her dance journey at the age of 3 with Beats Per...

Don't miss this exciting episode with Drew Burgess! From his world-class expertise to his knack for solving tough challenges, Drew shares how Acro Chat is revolutionizing support for dance teachers and studio owners. Whether you're looking for inspiration, guidance, or just a little TLC, this is the episode you need to hear! About Drew Burgess Ohio native, Drew made his industry debut on Live with...

Acrobatic Arts company Principal Sandra Elliott and Master Teacher Vicki Fletcher unveil Acrobatic Arts' new Advanced Acro Teacher Certifications: Aerial & Back Handspring, plus Back Tuck & Back Layout. Discover how these courses can improve your teaching by focusing on high-level spotting techniques and skill mastery. Learn to identify and correct common errors and build yours and your da...

Protect your passion and safeguard your business! Join Loren Dermody and Joanne Klenk, National Dance Insurance Program Director at Promark Partners Insurance Services, as they dive into the world of dance studio insurance. Discover tailored coverage for AcroDance and Aerial Arts, learn how to minimize risk, and get answers to your most pressing insurance questions. Don't miss this essential episo...

Exam season stressing you out? Acrobatic Arts Principal Sandra Elliott is here to help! This week on the Acrobatic Arts Podcast, Sandra shares her examiner insights on mastering Levels 3-5. Discover the most common corrections, flexibility secrets, and strength-building hacks for bridges, handstands, and more. AND...find out how your studio could WIN a FREE mock exam consultation with Sandra herse...

Join host Loren Dermody and special guest Sarah Reis on the latest episode for a deep dive into thoracic mobility and spine articulation. Sarah breaks down the key anatomy behind common bridge issues and how to improve your technique with targeted exercises. From unlocking tight hip flexors to understanding the fascial system, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help your dancers. Don't...

Dive into the explosive world of dance with Loren Dermody and Derek Piquette as they unpack the groundbreaking Prodigy Dance Convention and the rising importance of acro in performance. From viral University of Minnesota routines to insights from UDA Nationals, this episode reveals why dance teams are transforming the performing arts landscape. Get the inside scoop on the upcoming Accelerate Acro...

This is THE podcast episode you can't miss! Acrobatic Arts Founder Mandy Yip is dropping game-changing insights that will transform how you approach AcroDance education in 2025. From explosive industry trends to insider strategies that could skyrocket your career, this conversation is packed with must-know information. Want to stay ahead of the curve and unlock opportunities others are missing? Tu...

The finale episode of this year's The Acrobatic Arts Podcast features memorable moments from the 2024 line-up. Top take-a-ways in a countdown of the best include clips from Derek Piquette, Karen Ritchie, Dr. Linda Bluestein, Drew Burgess, and Dr. Leisha Strachan. Thank you to our listeners, and a huge thank you to ALL our amazing guests this past year! Feel free to also send us your ideas for the...

Acrobatic Arts holds a global search every year for young dancer/athletes committed to elevating awareness and appreciation of their respective disciplines, including acro and aerial, as well as baton twirling. Meet the game-changers - our 2024 Ambassadors - in this episode! They're taking their chosen disciplines to new heights with sheer hard work, passion, and dedication. Get ready to be inspir...

Join us as host Loren Dermody chats with the amazing Sarah Reis! Sarah's journey is a blend of gymnastics, dance, and acrobatics, leading her to become a renowned educator and competition director. With degrees in Kinesiology and Education, plus a Master's in Human Performance Coaching Sciences, she's a powerhouse in the dance world. In this episode, discover: How acrobatics enhances dance perform...

Join us for a dynamic Q&A episode of the Acrobatic Arts Podcast with one of our favorite guests, Dr. Leisha Strachan! This episode is packed with expert insights. Dr. Strachan, a sports psychologist and professor at the University of Manitoba, addresses common questions from acro instructors, including: Exam Preparation : Tips to help students overcome anxiety and perform confidently. Performa...

Join us on the Acrobatic Arts Podcast as we welcome examiner Wendy Holmquist to discuss the art of mock exams! With over 45 years of dance experience, Wendy shares invaluable insights on: • Creating the perfect exam environment • Preparing students for success • Mastering exam etiquette and attire Whether you're a teacher or student, this episode is packed with essential tips to boo...

Tune in to the latest episode of the Acrobatic Arts podcast featuring the incredible Lauren Ritchie, a renowned mental skills educator and dance expert. Lauren shares her journey from competitive dancer to mental performance specialist, offering invaluable insights on building resilience, confidence, and sustainable success in the world of dance and acrobatics. With her wealth of experience in cre...

Join us for an exciting episode featuring guest Loranne Meek, owner of Baton and Dance Company and an esteemed examiner with Acrobatic Arts. With over 30 years of experience, Loranne shares her expert insights on developing exceptional illusion techniques for dancers. Tune in as she walks us through effective progressions and tips that will elevate your teaching and enhance your students' performa...

Tune in to this exciting episode of the Acrobatic Arts podcast as host Loren interviews performing artist Derek Piquette. Derek shares his incredible journey from a young dancer to a star on So You Think You Can Dance and a lead performer with Cirque du Soleil. He discusses the importance of safe training, emotional depth in performance, and the lessons he's learned through challenges, including m...

Join host Loren Dermody in the latest episode of the Acrobatic Arts podcast, where we dive into the art of crafting the perfect recital routine for pre schoolers! This episode explores essential questions that every teacher faces, from choosing the right performance venue to deciding whether to incorporate mats and props. Loren shares valuable insights and tips to help educators create engaging, m...

Join Acrobatic Arts resident Pre School expert and podcast host, Loren Dermody as she chats with Belinda Agostino from Ready Set Dance about the exciting Ready Set Acro program for preschoolers! Discover how this collaboration enhances young dancers' skills while ensuring safety and fun. Get insights on integrating acro into your curriculum, hear success stories, and learn about the upcoming Ready...

Tune in as we welcome Cheryl Crawford, Acrobatic Arts Master Teacher and Course Conductor from our UK Division. With years of experience as a studio owner and examiner, Cheryl offers expert insights on setting up an acro studio. Learn about essential equipment, budget-friendly solutions, and practical tips to create a thriving acro program. Whether you're a seasoned instructor or just starting out...

Join us as we welcome Jemma Harris, expert course conductor and examiner. Jemma shares her top tips and techniques for mastering beginner handstands, covering posture, strength, alignment, and stacking. With engaging drills and invaluable insights, this episode is a must-listen for both teachers and students looking to build a solid acro foundation. Don't miss out! About Jemma Jemma began her danc...