87 - Jason Pickett: From Self-Taught Dancer to Global Educator and Branding Expert

Interview Date: February 2nd, 2025

Episode Summary:

Jason Pickett, a dance educator, choreographer, and the creator of the No Starving Artists brand. Jason shares his unique journey, from starting his dance career at 14 by self-teaching and getting inspired by YouTube and movies, to now traveling the world teaching at conventions and judging competitions.

He emphasizes the importance of building genuine relationships, networking, and having a clear personal brand. He shares lessons learned from his own experience, such as the significance of embracing a bold, confident approach and trusting the process.

Jason also discusses how his background in marketing has shaped his approach to content creation, stressing the need for consistency and authenticity. 

Towards the end of the episode, Jason offers valuable advice to dancers, including the importance of embracing freestyle, making connections with others, and constantly pushing forward. 

Show Notes:

• (0:00) Introduction to Jason’s dance journey

•  (3:00) Starting dance at 14 and self-teaching

•  (6:30) Early inspirations: YouTube, music videos, and Stomp the Yard

•  (10:00) Teaching at 16 and growing a hip-hop program

•  (13:00) Building connections and transitioning to professional gigs

• (17:00) Content creation’s role in Jason’s career 

• (21:30) Securing teaching gigs at conventions

•  (25:00) How networking and mentorship opened doors

•  (30:00) Full-time teaching and judging at conventions worldwide 

• (34:00) Using videography to expand his reach

• (38:00) Building a personal brand for success

•  (42:00) Consistency in social media content creation

•  (46:00) The importance of having an opinion and clear audience

•  (50:30) Balancing work, family, and content creation 

• (55:00) Authenticity in building trust with followers

• (58:30) Lessons learned from setbacks 

• (1:03:00) Using AI in dance business and content creation 

• (1:07:30) Advice for dancers navigating the industry 

• (1:10:00) Jason’s vision for No Starving Artists’ future 

• (1:12:00) Final thoughts on relationships, challenges, and staying authentic

Biography:

Professional dance educator, choreographer, adjudicator and international artist, Jason Pickett strives to help dancers grow to the next level of their artistic journey.

With over a decade of performance, choreography and teaching experience, the Utah native has performed live on shows like Americas Got Talent, collaborated with global brands Hermès, Icon Fitness, Toys-R-Us, Crocs, Bud Light and more, and been featured in viral YouTube videos Stormtrooper Twerk and High School Dance Battle – Geeks vs. Cool Kids! (4k), just to name a few.

In addition, Pickett has toured internationally throughout Germany and Israel with Odyssey Dance Theatre as company artist. Jason Pickett is the creator and host of No Starving Artists - a dance media company that provides mentoring, coaching & peak performance strategy to dancers, parents & teachers & is currently a full time faculty member with Reinforce Dance Experience.

Connect on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/heyitspickett

https://www.facebook.com/jasonpickettdance