The Resilient Dance Teacher Podcast

In this episode, we're exploring how to define and confidently own your teaching style so you can lead your classes with authenticity, purpose, and confidence. We'll discuss ways to clarify the experience you want your students to have, identify the energy you bring into every class, establish healthy professional boundaries, and embrace the artistic voice that feels most natural to you. W...

In this episode, I sit down with Shannon Dooling-Cain, the founder of The Holistic Dance Teacher to explore what it truly means to take a holistic approach to dance education. Moving beyond the latest buzzword, we unpack how teaching the whole dancer—not just their technique—can create more confident, creative, and resilient students. We discuss tools and strategies that every dance teacher can us...

Strength and conditioning is one of the most debated topics in the dance world—but how can dance teachers use it safely, effectively, and realistically within the studio setting? In this episode, I'm sharing my perspective on strength and conditioning for dancers, including why I believe both traditional strength training and dance-specific conditioning have a place in a dancer’s development....

Whether you're a brand-new teacher or have years of experience in the studio, this conversation is a reminder that the best teachers are lifelong learners. Growth doesn't require another certification or degree—it often starts with small, consistent steps that lead to meaningful change over time. In this episode, you'll learn: • Why evolving as a teacher benefits both you and your stud...

Today’s guest is the incredible Katie Wilber—a nationally recognized dance educator, choreographer, creative strategist, and marketing professional with more than 15 years of experience in the dance industry. As a former professional dancer and teaching artist, Katie has performed and taught across the country, bringing together artistic excellence and a deep commitment to human-centered learning....

In this episode, I'm sharing five practical organization strategies that help me stay grounded, focused, and prepared throughout the dance season. Whether you're heading into a busy summer schedule, preparing for recital season, or simply looking for ways to reduce overwhelm, these tips can help you create more mental space and spend less time feeling scattered. We'll talk about: How t...

In today’s two-part episode, we’re diving into a discussion on teaching performance quality, as well as the dangers of social media in dance education. Can artistry actually be taught? What’s the difference between performance quality and artistic voice? And why am I comparing all of this to cake? Do you feel fatigued from doom-scrolling? All of this will be discussed in today's packed episode...

In this podcast episode, I invited on my dear friend and coworker Emma Lochner. In this thoughtful and honest conversation, we explore one of the most important topics in dance education today: how to create classrooms that are both supportive and structured. For many dancers, training environments rooted in fear, shame, or harsh criticism were once considered “normal” in the pursuit of excellence...

Lesson planning doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. In this episode of The Resilient Dance Teacher, we’re talking about how to create intentional, effective dance classes without overcomplicating the process or burning yourself out. Whether you’re teaching ongoing weekly classes, semester-based programs, workshops, or drop-in classes, this episode breaks down practical strategies to help you plan w...

In this episode we'll discuss why warm-ups matter more than we sometimes give them credit for—from building heat and mobilizing joints to preventing injury, activating key muscles, and mentally centering dancers for the work ahead. Because a warm-up isn’t just a routine—it’s preparation for performance. I also get real about what warm-ups aren’t (hint: they shouldn’t be boring, mindless, or ju...

Being a dance teacher is about so much more than teaching steps—it’s about shaping people. In this episode, we dive into one of the most complex and meaningful parts of the role: understanding the responsibility that comes with guiding students not just in technique, but in growth, resilience, and self-awareness. We explore research-backed insights on the benefits of dance within structured enviro...

In this episode, we’re diving into the art of balancing technique with creativity in the dance classroom. While strong technique provides structure, growth, and consistency, it’s only one part of the equation. Dance is a performing art, and without creativity, expression, and connection, we’re missing what truly brings it to life. We explore why creativity isn’t just an “extra,” but an essential c...

In this episode, we explore the powerful (and often overlooked) shift from simply doing movement to truly understanding and teaching it. Sparked by a real moment in class—when a student asked, “How do I stop my momentum in a turn?”—this conversation dives into the thinking and problem-solving that defines great teaching. From there, we zoom out to reflect on a bigger idea: knowledge alone doesn’t...

Welcome to The Resilient Dance Teacher Podcast! My name is Reed, your host. I’m a passionate dance teacher with over a decade of experience, dedicated to empowering creative and joyful educators. I believe in taking the time to invest in our teaching skills, nurture our creativity, and engage in meaningful conversations that enrich the way we teach—all in a way that feels accessible and sustainabl...

Today's episode is extra special because I have on my very first guest...Hannah Weinmaster! Hannah is not only my dear friend, but also a Radio City Rockette and talented dancer and choreographer in New York City. In this episode we dive into ways to get through creative blocks in dance choreography and teaching, and we celebrate what it means to be joyous in the process! Grab your favorite co...

In this episode, we’re diving into one of the most powerful (and often overlooked) teaching tools: imagery and intentional cueing. Have you ever sat in a class where the instructions felt vague or confusing? As teachers, it’s easy to assume we’re being clear—but are our students truly understanding what we’re asking of them? Today, we explore how refining your cues can transform not only student c...

Ever question your authority as a teacher or struggle to teach with confidence in your gifts? This episode is all about finding ways to teach more confidently and effectively with 4 main focal points. Enjoy! Link to ebook: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/reboot

In this episode we explore ways to shift the mindset, both for ourselves and our students, from "perfectionism" to presence. We'll chat through fun ways to create a safe atmosphere at the start of class, as well as ways that we can encourage our students to steer away from trying to be perfect, and see that the magic already lies in being fully present for all of their work - both in...

In this episode, get to know the host, Reed, and explore 8 hidden signs of burnout in dance teaching plus four practical ways to help combat it! Link to ebook "The Resilient Dance Teacher Reboot": https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/reboot