Dance Real Podcast

Season Two

Ep: 03 "That's Not OK!" Consent in Dance

In this podcast episode, Kate Histon interviews Cindy Ambridge about the importance of consent and boundaries in dance education. They discuss the evolving understanding of consent, the significance of communication, and the need for a collaborative approach in teaching. The conversation also touches on the impact of trauma on students and the importance of creating a safe and r...

Season Two

Ep: 02 "The First Time I was Hit in Dance" 

*Content Warning: This episode contains sensitive content about a childhood experience of being hit in a ballet class. Listener discretion is advised.

In this solo mini episode, Kate Histon shares a deeply personal story: the first time she was hit by a ballet teacher at just six years old. More than a reflection on one moment, this episode explores how toxic cultures in the da...

Season Two

Ep: 01

In this enlightening conversation, dance educator Marie Walton-Mahon shares her inspiring journey from a young dancer to a global mentor in the dance community. With over 50 years of experience, Marie discusses her early influences, the challenges she faced in her training, and the importance of creating a supportive environment for dancers. She highlights the development of Progressing Ballet Technique, a revolut...

Ep: 08 "I Never Won a Dance Competition and Still became Principal Dancer"

Rethinking the Dance Industry with Shane Wuerthner In this thought-provoking episode, Shane Wuerthner shares game-changing insights that challenge conventional perspectives in the dance world. From perfectionism and competition culture to body composition and beyond, Shane delves into key issues shaping the industry today. Through the lens of his own journey...

Ep:07 “I was Told I Couldn’t Dance Again”

In this conversation, former professional soloist ballet dancer Charlene Dujardin shares her inspiring journey from overcoming a life-altering injury to becoming a dance teacher and studio owner. She discusses the challenges she faced in her career, the importance of self-belief, and her vision for nurturing future dancers. Charline emphasizes the significance of focusing on personal growth...

Ep: 06 “My Drive comes from Within”

The journey of Amelie Pollock from student to Professional Dancer. In this podcast episode, Amelie Pollock shares her inspiring journey from a young dancer in Byron Bay to a professional jazz dancer now living in London. She discusses the importance of family support, the challenges of transitioning to full-time dance training, and her experiences in the competitive dance industry. Amelie reflect...

Ep: 05 - "Breaking the Cycle" - Supporting young Dancers without Passing on Our Wounds" In this enlightening conversation, Kaz Amos, a psychologist, discusses the mental health challenges faced by young dancers and the crucial role parents and teachers play in supporting them. The dialogue explores the developmental stages of children, the importance of emotional support, and the impact of toxic environments in dance schools. Kaz e...

Ep: 04 "Don't Try to be Perfect"

In this conversation, Katherina Makowskaja, a former principal ballerina, shares her journey from childhood in a dance family to becoming a renowned dancer and now a teacher. She discusses her early training in Ukraine, the challenges of competition, and the pressures of performing in a ballet company. Katherina reflects on her transition from dancing to teaching, emphasizing the importance of self-...

Ep: 03 "Unstoppable"

In this episode Janelle McPherson shares her inspiring journey from being an ex-professional dancer at the Moulin Rouge and across Europe including the “It Girls” to navigating life after dance. She discusses her early dance experiences, the rigorous training and performances at the Moulin Rouge, and the emotional challenges of transitioning to a new career. Janelle emphasizes the importance of self-discovery, ...

Ep: 02 - "You Can't Judge talent"

Ever want to know how a Dance Judge adjudicates a competition? In this conversation, Rachel Jackson (International Dance Judge & Examiner) shares how! As well as her extensive experience in the dance world, discussing her journey from dancer to teacher and examiner. She emphasizes the importance of self-care for educators, the challenges faced in dance education, and the evolving landscape of d...

Ep: 1 - We Need to Have difficult Conversations :

In this engaging episode host Kate with former professional ballet dancers and founders of Lunar The Brand, Daniel Gaudiello and Gabriel Rogers discuss the intricate relationship between mental health and the world of dance. Daniel and Gabriel explore their personal journeys into dance, the challenges faced by male dancers, and the importance of fostering a supportive environment ...