Passion for Dance

In this episode of Passion for Dance, host Dr. Chelsea discusses the college dance team recruiting process with Abbey Nugent, founder of Studio 2 Stadium. Abbey, a seasoned dance teacher and coach, offers valuable advice on preparing recruitment videos, effective communication with coaches, choosing the right program, and more. The episode also emphasizes the importance of transparency and resilience in the recruitment process, providing listeners with actionable insights to achieve their college dance team dreams.

Episode Resources: https://passionfordancepodcast.com/222

Connect with Abbey and Studio 2 Stadium!

https://studio2stadium.com/

In this episode of Passion for Dance, Dr. Chelsea discusses the delicate balance coaches need to create a goal-driven culture that promotes success without causing stress and burnout. She covers pitfalls of an outcome-focused culture, the importance of the type of goal you set, and advice for preventing burnout. Dr. Chelsea offers five practical strategies to maintain dancer motivation and wellbeing, including balancing outcome and process goals, prioritizing autonomy, celebrating small wins, normalizing rest, and modeling healthy ambition. She also highlights red flags that indicate a team might be slipping towards burnout and offers actionable steps to shift the...

Are you ready to break the cycle of self-doubt and build lasting confidence? In this episode of Passion for Dance, Dr. Chelsea reveals the secret to building confidence: the Confidence Loop. Discover why confidence isn’t something you’re born with, but a skill you can build every day through consistent effort, preparation, and self-trust. Whether you’re struggling with inconsistency or looking for actionable strategies to boost your confidence, this episode is packed with research-backed insights and practical tips you can use right away.

Grab your Competition Confidence Checklist: https://passionfordancepodcast.com/checklist

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In this episode of Passion for Dance, Dr. Chelsea explores the importance of trust in building a positive dance team culture. She highlights five common trust breakers—playing favorites, not listening, inconsistency, competing instead of collaborating, and gossiping—that can undermine team dynamics. Offering actionable strategies, Dr. Chelsea emphasizes the importance of addressing trust issues promptly, revisiting team agreements, and fostering psychological safety. By identifying and mitigating these trust-destroying behaviors, dancers and coaches can cultivate a more cohesive and successful team. Additional resources, including a mental skills bundle, are available to help you get started.

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In this episode of Passion for Dance, Dr. Chelsea hosts Jason Pickett, a distinguished dance teacher, choreographer, and founder of No Starving Artists. They discuss their shared love for teaching, the evolving landscape of college dance, and the importance of individualism and improvisation in dancer development. Jason delves into the business side of dance, advocating for a collaborative and transparent approach to foster sustainable careers for artists. He also shares valuable insights on awareness, confidence, and the critical role of mental skills in a dancer's success. Listen in for  practical advice for dance educators and aspiring professionals to build c...

In this episode of Passion for Dance, Dr. Chelsea explores the top five life skills dancers develop and how these skills transfer to other areas of life. She delves into emotional regulation, leadership and self-control, grit, communication and respect, and responsibility and time management. Dr. Chelsea offers practical advice for dancers and coaches to implement these skills outside the dance studio. Tune in to learn actionable strategies for applying your dance-based skills to enhance your personal growth, relationships, and professional success.

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In this episode of Passion for Dance, Dr. Chelsea discusses common mental traps that hinder dancers' progress and success. Delving into traps like comparison, waiting for confidence, outcome-only goals, and injury identity, she provides actionable mental skills tools to help dancers shift their mindset and regain control. Learn how journaling, taking action, setting process goals, and rewriting your identity can foster confidence, growth, and joy in your dance journey. 

Episode Resources: https://passionfordancepodcast.com/216

Download the Competition Confidence Checklist: https://passionfordancepodcast.com/checklist

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In this episode of 'Passion for Dance,' Dr. Chelsea emphasizes the importance of reflection for dancers, especially during the off-season. She provides science-backed tools to help dancers develop self-awareness, mental toughness, and resilience. Dr. Chelsea introduces four practical reflection tools: post-event reflection, personal growth journaling, SWOT analysis, and collaborative reflection with coaches or peers. She also shares tips to make reflection a sustainable habit and invites listeners to share their progress. Challenge yourself this summer and try integrating reflection into your routine.

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In this episode of Passion for Dance, host Dr. Chelsea sits down with accomplished dancer, choreographer, and educator Alexandra Beller. Alexandra shares invaluable advice for dealing with negative self-talk, building body awareness, and fostering authenticity in your performances. She details her journey from being a young dancer to a world-touring professional and celebrated choreographer. Alexandra also discusses the importance of understanding one's creative process and offers practical strategies for dealing with inner critics and boosting confidence. Additionally, she gives a sneak peek into her upcoming book 'The Anatomy of Art: Unlocking the Creative Process for Theater and Dance...

In this episode of Passion for Dance, host Dr. Chelsea interviews Julie Opiel, Director of Education and Community Engagement at Body Traffic, an LA-based contemporary dance company. They discuss overcoming career challenges, the importance of community engagement, and the benefits of experienced teachers working with beginners. Julie shares insights on Body Traffic's whole dancer approach, which nurtures dancers as artists and humans, and talks about finding a balance between rigor and compassion in our training.

Learn More About Body Traffic: https://www.bodytraffic.com/

Other Episode Resources: https://passionfordancepodcast.com/213

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In this episode of Passion for Dance, Dr. Chelsea speaks with Lesley Logan, a mindset and breathwork coach, and co-founder of onlinepilatesclasses.com. They discuss the connections between dance and Pilates, emphasizing the importance of mind-body connection, dealing with imposter syndrome, and embracing the beginner mindset. Lesley shares insights from her own journey and offers valuable teaching strategies for addressing varying skill levels in classes. This conversation provides practical advice for dancers seeking to build confidence and cultivate a supportive learning environment.

Connect with Lesley:

https://lesleylogan.co/

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In this episode of Passion for Dance, Dr. Chelsea tackles the pervasive issue of favoritism in dance studios and teams. She explains what favoritism looks like, why it happens, and how it impacts dancers emotionally and socially. Dr. Chelsea also shares actionable strategies to mitigate favoritism, including advice for teachers on creating a fair and inclusive environment, tips for dancers on how to handle perceived favoritism and seek constructive feedback, and guidance for parents on supporting their children and empowering them to advocate for themselves. Tune in for a comprehensive guide to creating a positive, equitable dance culture.

In this episode of Passion for Dance, Dr. Chelsea interviews Rhee Gold, an esteemed dance professional with over four decades of experience. Rhee shares his journey, emphasizing the importance of mental toughness, resilience, and staying true to one’s values in the dance industry. He discusses the evolution of his career, the significance of community and passion, and offers practical advice for dance studio owners and teachers on building a successful dance business. The conversation also touches on the challenges and changes in today's dance world, the importance of adaptability, and fostering a supportive environment for all dancers.

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In this episode of Passion for Dance, Dr. Chelsea discusses the common issue of performance slumps in dancers. She explores the causes, including physical, environmental, and psychological factors, and provides evidence-based strategies for overcoming them. Dr. Chelsea emphasizes the importance of realistic goal setting, maintaining an optimistic mindset, utilizing social support, and employing mental skills like imagery and reflection. Listeners will learn actionable steps to bounce back from a drop in performance and continue their journey towards becoming happier, more successful dancers.

Episode Resources: https://passionfordancepodcast.com/209

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In this episode of 'Passion for Dance,' host Dr. Chelsea talks with high-performance coach Amber Fahey about the benefits of integrating meditation, breath work, and journaling into dance practices. Amber, who has worked with nationally ranked dance teams, shares practical strategies for dancers to maintain focus and confidence during high-pressure moments. They explore specific visualization techniques, breathing exercises, and journaling prompts that can transform a dancer's mental fitness. Amber also introduces accessible methods for competitive teams to adopt these practices and shares a guided breathing exercise for confidence and positivity at the end of the episode. Tune in...

In this episode of Passion for Dance, Dr. Chelsea addresses jealousy and teammate tension. She discusses the common causes of jealousy, including social relationship threats, competitive environments lacking emotional support, and low self-esteem among dancers. Dr. Chelsea offers three actionable strategies to manage jealousy: fostering deep friendships, creating a positive team culture, and building individual self-esteem. Tune in to learn how to shield yourself from jealous feelings, and handle it when they inevitably come up..

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Episode Resources: https://passionfordancepodcast.com/207

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In this special episode of 'Passion for Dance,' host Dr. Chelsea reveals her proven process for cultivating a dance team with a strong sense of purpose and lasting motivation. Joined by guest Coach Ali James, they discuss setting team values and goals at the beginning of the season and how this practice fosters accountability and peak performance. Coach Ali shares her hands-on experiences in implementing these strategies, including the success of her team's unique 2-1-2 mantra. Dr. Chelsea also introduces her 'Dance Team Catalyst' course designed to guide coaches in building motivated and cohesive teams. Tune in...

In this episode of Passion for Dance, Dr. Chelsea explores the evolving landscape of leadership within dance teams in both school and studio settings. She highlights how the traditional role of a team captain is changing, with a shift towards shared leadership models where multiple dancers contribute to leadership roles. Dr. Chelsea discusses five key trends in athlete leadership, emphasizing the importance of both formal and informal leaders. This episode is for coaches and studio teachers who will both gain valuable insights into fostering positive team culture and effective leadership among dancers.

Leadership Training Course: h...

In this episode of 'Passion for Dance,' host Dr. Chelsea explores the complexities of choosing a career in the performing arts. Joined by master certified life and career coach Cheryl Polk, they discuss holistic approaches to finding fulfilling careers, practical advice for overcoming limiting beliefs, and the importance of self-discovery and support systems. Cheryl offers insights into transitioning careers, setting life goals, and the unique challenges faced by those pursuing careers in the arts. Tune in for actionable strategies on discovering a career you love.

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In this episode of Passion for Dance, host Dr. Chelsea explores the phrase "leave it at the door" in the dance industry and its relevance in 2025. Joined by guest expert Dr. Audrey Schnell, a psychologist and coach with over 40 years of experience, they discuss handling emotions, building resilience, self-sabotage, and the fine line between pushing oneself and taking necessary breaks. 

Together, they offer valuable insights on teaching dancers to manage negative emotions without letting them interfere with performance and the importance of labeling and processing feelings. They also highlight the dual role of dance as both a s...

In this episode, host Dr. Chelsea talks to distinguished dance educator Anabella Lenzu about the shifting focus in the dance community from artistic expression to technical perfection and competitive achievements. Anabella, originally from Argentina and now a teacher in New York City, shares her perspectives on dance education shaped by her multicultural experiences. They explore the importance of incorporating emotional connection in dance training, and how cultural adaptation influences teaching methodologies. Anabella delves into her teaching philosophy, stressing the significance of meaningful gestures over rote repetition and the holistic development of dancers. The conversation also touches on the impact...

In this episode of Passion for Dance, Dr. Chelsea addresses the growing pessimism among teenage competitive dancers. She emphasizes the importance of optimism for competitive success and mental resilience, differentiating it from toxic positivity. Dr. Chelsea shares practical strategies for cultivating optimism, including self-awareness, positive self-talk, visualization, and gratitude. She also discusses the impact of an optimistic mindset on performance and recovery from setbacks, using real-life examples from her work. The episode encourages dancers to maintain a positive outlook to enhance their training and competition results.

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In this milestone episode, host Dr. Chelsea reflects on 200 episodes of the Passion for Dance podcast, sharing key insights and lessons from the four pillars of the show: mindset, motivation, resilience, and community. She emphasizes the need for emotional regulation, the importance of balancing discipline with empathy, training resilience, and fostering a supportive dance community.  Join in to learn actionable strategies for building happier, more successful dancers.

Be a guest on the show! https://passionfordancepodcast.com/voicemail

or email Dr Chelsea at hello@chelseapierotti.com

Take the Podcast Quiz: https://chelseapierotti.co...

In this episode of Passion for Dance, host Dr. Chelsea is joined by professional dancer Nia Lonette. The two dive into Nia's journey from Maryland to becoming an acclaimed dancer in LA, featuring her work with prominent artists and appearances at major events like the Grammys. Nia shares valuable tips on handling nerves, staying present in auditions, managing negative thoughts in class, and preparing for a move to LA. They also discuss elements from Nia's new book, 'Industry Survival Guide,' which offers practical advice on creating resumes, taking headshots, and finding community in the dance world. This conversation...

Dr. Chelsea tackles the challenges dancers face during the intense competition season including losing and offers valuable insights into three aspects worse than losing: regret, blame, and lack of improvement. Dr. Chelsea shares personal stories and actionable strategies to help dancers and educators focus on growth, accountability, and effort, redefining success beyond competitive outcomes. 

Episode Resources: https://passionfordancepodcast.com/198

NEW TO THE SHOW?! Check out this New Listener Resource to dive into building mental toughness as a dancer.

Episode Breakdown:

00:37 The Reality of Losing

01:27 Three Things Worse Th...

In this episode of Passion for Dance, Dr. Chelsea speaks with Jared Redick, a third-generation professional ballet dancer and current Dean at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts. Mr Redick shares his extensive dance journey and expertise as a leader in the dance community offering valuable insights on the balance between hard work and discipline. He also shares his approach to leadership in dance education, emphasizing empathy, communication, and individualized goal setting to build more resilient and successful dancers. 

Episode Resources: https://passionfordancepodcast.com/197

Episode Breakdown

00:19 Meet Jared Redick: A J...

In the third installment of 'Emotional Intelligence for Dancers,' Dr. Chelsea delves into coping strategies for managing emotions over the long term, helping dancers recover from disappointment and frustration. She emphasizes the importance of reflection, after-action reviews, and maintaining a balance outside of dance. Practical tips include journaling, non-screen relaxation routines, and ensuring physical wellness. Dr. Chelsea advocates for the integration of these practices to foster resilience and emotional stability, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling dance experience.

Episode Resources: https://passionfordancepodcast.com/196

NEW TO THE SHOW?! Check out this Ne...

In this episode of Passion for Dance, Dr. Chelsea continues her series on emotional intelligence for dancers, focusing on strategies for managing negative emotions. She provides five proactive techniques including mindfulness, building a support system, practicing gratitude and self-affirmations, simulating high-pressure situations, and developing a pre-performance routine. Additionally, Dr. Chelsea offers in-the-moment tips for dealing with negative emotions during performances and stresses the importance of consistent practice for long-term emotional resilience and regulation.

Episode Resources: https://passionfordancepodcast.com/195

NEW TO THE SHOW?! Check out this New Listener Resource to dive into building mental t...

In this episode of 'Passion for Dance,' Dr. Chelsea, discusses how emotions impact a dancer’s ability to focus, move, and connect with the audience. With competition season in full swing, she delves into the importance of understanding and identifying both positive and negative emotions. Dr. Chelsea explores how emotions like anxiety, frustration, and determination can affect performance, concentration, movement quality, and authenticity on stage. This is part one of a two-part series, so tune in next week for strategies on managing emotions effectively.

Episode Resources: https://passionfordancepodcast.com/194

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In this episode, guest artist Galit Friedlander shares her personal dance journey from starting her professional career as a young teen to working as an assistant choreographer for Prince. She discusses the impact of being highly sensitive and empathetic as a dancer and a teacher, the importance of creating positive energy in rehearsals, and strategies for maintaining professionalism. Galit also provides advice from her experiences interviewing successful dancers on the 'DanceSpeak' podcast, emphasizing hard work, authenticity, and leveraging peer networks for career advancement.

Episode Resources: https://passionfordancepodcast.com/193

DanceSpeak Podcast: https://dancespeakpodcast.com

In this episode of Dr. Chelsea delves into the benefits of mindfulness for dancers. She clarifies the difference between mindfulness and meditation and discusses how mindfulness can improve both mental well-being and dance performance. Dr. Chelsea offers practical mindfulness exercises, while emphasizing the importance of being present and non-judgmental. She also shares resources for new listeners and encourages the dance community to explore mindfulness as a tool to regulate emotions, improve focus, and eventually achieve peak performance.

New Listener Resource: https://passionfordancepodcast.com

Other Episode Resources: https://passionfordancepodcast.com/192

00:00 Introduction to Passion for...

In this episode of Passion for Dance, Dr. Chelsea addresses the common struggle dancers face with comparison. From defining why we compare ourselves to others to exploring its psychological impacts, Dr. Chelsea provides a deep dive into this common challenge. She discusses four main reasons we compare, how it affects dancers' confidence and mental health, and shares actionable strategies to shift from comparison to personal growth. Listeners can learn to identify their comparison triggers, set personal goals, and cultivate a more positive mindset.

New Listener Resource: https://passionfordancepodcast.com

Episode Resources: https://passionfordancepodcast.com/191

Dr. Chelsea announces updates for the Passion for Dance podcast in 2025, including a slight shift in focus towards more dancer-focused episodes while maintaining content for dance educators and coaches.

There's also a new website: PassionForDancePodcast.com, for easier access to episode resources, notes, and player links.

Thank you for sharing your passion for dance with the world!

Would you want to know that your last time onstage was the last time? Would that knowledge bring closure or would it be too difficult to perform if you knew it was your last time? My guest in today’s episode was a professional dancer who battled serious injuries throughout her long career, and she's here today to share some incredible words of wisdom for dealing with injury, finding a purpose again, and how she handled it when it was suddenly her last chance to perform.

Hannah Teutscher, whose professional career brought her throughout North America, Asia, an...

Today’s episode is all about making it as a professional dancer. My guest, Justine Menter, has over 15 years of experience in LA's entertainment industry as a choreographer, educator, and entrepreneur. She hosts her own podcast, Dance Careers Unfiltered, and she's the founder of MNTR MGMT, career coaching for dance artists.

Justine has so much insight into what it takes to make it as a professional. In this episode, she shares the pros and cons of being a freelance dancer, how she works through hard decisions, professional career paths you might not have previously considered, the mindset of...

We are entering the thick of dance competition season where dancers start to feel more pressure and there are some big wins and some very hard days. Dancers who train their mental skills are not only able to increase their chances of success onstage but they also can use those mental skills to help reach the demands of their training schedules. If you want to be more resilient in the hard days and enjoy the wins along the way, mental skills can help.

In today’s episode, I'll be sharing the six mental skills that will help yo...

It's Nutcracker season, and today I want to pull back the curtain on what life is really like as a professional ballet dancer. My guest today is Janine Kovac who was a professional dancer for 12 years in Iceland, Italy, San Francisco, and her hometown in El Paso, Texas.

In today’s episode, Janine and I talk about how you can take whatever role you're given in the ballet, even if it's not your favorite, and truly make it your own. She shares her pre-performance ritual as a professional dancer, which I will say was very well thought ou...

 I've talked to hundreds and hundreds of dancers all over the world, and I hear from each of them about the heavy load they experience as dancers. There's pressure to perform. We never feel like we have enough time to get everything done. There's performance anxiety and burnout. But it doesn't have to be that way. Reframing stress can lead to a better performance as well as more mental resilience and personal growth.

In today’s episode, I’ll break down the four different ways that you can reframe your stress as a dancer and share some pract...

If you are a dance teacher who has ever struggled to get your students to go full out when they're learning, or if you've been saying the same cue, like, “Pull up,” and they don't get it, today's guest is here to share a different approach with a lot of tangible ideas to try in your next class.

My guest today is Jennifer Bonfill, the Artistic Director of The Wooden Floor. She spent 13 years as a professional dancer and is now a truly exceptional teacher who has a genuine passion for dance. Jennifer believes that dance is more...

The best performers in the world didn't get to where they are through magic, nor did they get there overnight. The best path to your personal best is to focus on those small, daily habits that add up to consistent growth. Psychological research has taught us that there are three of these daily key habits to focus on.

In today’s episode, I'll share the three daily habits of top-performing dancers that you can implement right away. I’ll be breaking them down and sharing how they all can all build upon each other. If you're a danc...