Best Jenny Huang and Brett Gardner Podcasts (2025)

1
Silas Farley on Ballet, Belonging, and Life After Performing 1:34:26

3d ago1:34:26

1:34:26

Silas Farley walked away from his performing career while he was arguably at the top of his game. In this thoughtful and deeply personal conversation, Farley—former New York City Ballet dancer and current choreographer, educator, and leader—reflects on his journey through the ballet world. He shares how his cultural background shaped his experience…

1
#NoThirds: Fran Veyette - Postgrad Reality Check - Pt. 2 1:00:58

7d ago1:00:58

1:00:58

In Part 2 of our conversation with Fran Veyette, we dig into the realities of postgraduate training—what kind of “help” programs actually offer (and what dancers should be asking for), how long is too long to stay in a bridge program, and why some dancers move quickly into company jobs while others spin their wheels. We talk about whether dancers a…

1
Inside USC Kaufman & What Makes This Dance Program Stand Out 1:08:26

8d ago1:08:26

1:08:26

Jackie Kopcsak, a founding faculty member and Associate Professor of Practice at USC Glorya Kaufman School of Dance, joins us to unpack what makes USC’s program unique—from its one-of-a-kind curriculum and career planning resources to how students balance ballet, choreography, and cross-disciplinary training. We discuss what the school looks for in…

1
#NoThirds with Fran Veyette: Postgrad Reality Check - Part 1 51:09

14d ago51:09

51:09

Postgraduate ballet training is often sold as the final step before a professional contract—but how much of what dancers and parents hear is actually true? In this first episode of a two-part series, Fran Veyette joins us to break down the current state of postgraduate programs. We talk about the rise of bridge-level training, how to evaluate the v…

1
Elizabeth Gillaspy and Jessica Zeller on the Dance Program at TCU 1:39:08

15d ago1:39:08

1:39:08

Elizabeth Gillaspy and Jessica Zeller of Texas Christian University join us to break down what makes TCU’s dance program unique—from its dual emphasis on ballet and modern, to performance and choreographic opportunities, to how it prepares students for both performing and dance-adjacent careers. They walk us through a typical day of training, the a…

1
Michael Bearden on OU’s College Dance Path 1:19:04

22d ago1:19:04

1:19:04

Michael Bearden, Director of the University of Oklahoma School of Dance, joins us to talk about what makes OU’s program stand out. With three distinct tracks—ballet, modern, and pedagogy—OU offers a robust performance schedule, new choreographic opportunities, and wellness support for its students. We dig into the admission process, scholarship lan…

1
Why Allison DeBona Chose College Before Going Pro 1:25:47

29d ago1:25:47

1:25:47

Allison DeBona took the road less traveled—college before company—and it led to a successful ballet career. In this episode, she breaks down why she chose Indiana University, what she gained from the experience, and how the college route stacks up against full-time conservatory training. We talk about career outcomes, adjustment challenges, and shi…

1
Pointe Shoe Secrets with Riley Weber 1:39:12

1M ago1:39:12

1:39:12

Pointe shoe fittings can feel like a mystery—but Riley Weber, a well-known pointe shoe fitter for Nikolay, is here to break it all down! In this episode, we talk about what to expect at a fitting, how to tell if a fitter knows what they’re doing, and why dancers shouldn’t just settle for “fine.” Riley addresses common fitting issues (like sinking!)…

1
#NoThirds With Fran Veyette: Boys in Ballet 1:10:02

2M ago1:10:02

1:10:02

Boys in ballet face unique challenges—but also unique opportunities. In this episode of #NoThirds, Fran Veyette gets real about training, summer intensives, scholarships for boys, and what needs to change to better support young male dancers on their journey. Learn more about Fran and Veyette Virtual Ballet School More Links: Support Ballet Help De…

1
Dr. Selina Shah on Pointe Readiness 43:50

2M ago43:50

43:50

Before stepping onto pointe, make sure you're ready. Dr. Selina Shah, a sports and dance medicine specialist, shares what dancers and parents need to know— from the ideal starting age to strength exercises, medical evaluations, and the impact of hypermobility. With experience treating professional dancers, Broadway performers, and Olympic athletes,…

1
Inside PNB’s Professional Division with Denise Bolstad 45:45

2M ago45:45

45:45

Pacific Northwest Ballet School operates differently from many other company-affiliated programs. In this episode, Denise Bolstad, Managing Director of PNB School, breaks down what sets it apart. We explore the structure of the Professional Division, how dancers are selected, training expectations, performance opportunities, and the path from PD to…

1
Shining a Light on Gender (In)equity in Ballet: The Dance Data Project 1:23:47

2M ago1:23:47

1:23:47

Elizabeth Yntema and Tracey Bonner, from the Dance Data Project, join us to discuss their mission to shine a light gender inequity in ballet. They share how their data-driven research highlights gaps in leadership roles, how parents and dancers can use their findings, and the changes they've seen since launching the organization. Hear how DDP is wo…

1
Tai Jimenez. Dance Theatre of Harlem 1:11:34

2M ago1:11:34

1:11:34

Tai Jimenez, Director of the Dance Theatre of Harlem School, joins us to discuss her journey in ballet and her vision for training the next generation of dancers. She breaks down the school’s structure, why DTH remains an afterschool program, her plans for future growth of their trianing programs as well as how they help students transition into pr…

1
Introducing #NoThirds With Fran Veyette 15:13

2M ago15:13

15:13

Introducing #NoThirds, an unfiltered look at what really happens behind the scenes in ballet. Ballet Help Desk is joined by Fran Veyette, as he pulls back the curtain on the realities of training, company life, and the industry’s unspoken rules. No scripts or platitudes — just honest conversations about what dancers and parents need to know. Links:…

1
Christopher Alloways- Ramsey, Orlando Ballet School 1:42:14

2M ago1:42:14

1:42:14

Christopher Alloways-Ramsey recently took the helm at Orlando Ballet School, and we sat down with him to discuss his vision, challenges, and what’s next for the school. In this episode, he shares his thoughts on the structure of the academy, including postgraduate levels, recruitment pathways, and how Orlando Ballet transitions dancers from student…

1
Grace Holmes, San Francisco Ballet School 1:34:19

3M ago1:34:19

1:34:19

Grace Holmes, the head of San Francisco Ballet School, joins us to discuss her vision for the school, from training curriculum and performance opportunities to scholarships and student wellness. We also discussed the culture at SFBS, recent changes to the trainee program, and how the school prepares students for professional careers. Tune in for an…

1
Stephanie Potreck on the Realities of European Ballet Training 1:36:04

3M ago1:36:04

1:36:04

The European ballet training system has long been admired, but how does it really compare to training in the U.S.? In this episode, we sit down with Stephanie Potreck, founder of Aus Dancers Overseas, to discuss the key differences, the biggest challenges European ballet schools have faced, and how recent scandals have sparked change. We also explo…

1
Inside the Prix de Lausanne with Cynthia Harvey 1:40:49

3M ago1:40:49

1:40:49

We sit down with Cynthia Harvey to discuss the Prix de Lausanne, one of the world’s top ballet competitions. Cynthia shares how she got started in ballet, key moments in her training, and the teachers who influenced her career. We also explore the history of the Prix, how students are selected, what happens during the week in Lausanne, and how winn…

1
Brittany Cavaco, The Ballet Agency 59:24

3M ago59:24

59:24

Join us for a conversation with Brittany Cavaco, founder of The Ballet Agency. Brittany explains how her agency connects top-tier dancers and ballet artists with media projects, elevating the quality of ballet in entertainment. She also shares how she's helping dancers impacted by natural disasters, providing much-needed support during challenging …

1
Raymond Rodriguez, Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre School 1:24:00

4M ago1:24:00

1:24:00

Raymond Rodriguez, Dean of Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre School, offers an in-depth look at the school’s advanced levels, graduate program, and pathways into the main company. He shares how PBT supports dancers on their journey, covering everything from relocation advice and program structure to performance opportunities and health initiatives. Plus, i…

1
Dominic Walsh, Oregon Ballet Theatre 1:14:11

4M ago1:14:11

1:14:11

In this episode we chat with Dominic Walsh of Oregon Ballet Theatre. He shares insights into OBT’s trainee and second company levels, including class sizes, promotion timelines, costs, and performance opportunities. He also discusses health and wellness programs, how he and his team recruit, as well as career support once dancers join the school. F…

1
Erica Fischbach, Director of Colorado Ballet Academy 1:03:20

4M ago1:03:20

1:03:20

This week, we’re joined by Erica Fischbach, Director of Colorado Ballet Academy, to talk about the school’s full-time training programs, including the trainee and studio company levels. While the studio company is part of the main company, Erica shares everything you need to know about it. We also discuss how CBA recruits dancers, what interested s…

1
Jason Yeung on the Realities of the Job Market in Ballet - A Re-Release 41:35

4M ago41:35

41:35

"Becoming a professional ballet dancer in the United States requires years of training, dedication, and a bit of luck. With only a few thousand full-time positions available, the path is challenging and often uncertain." These words open the DataPointes Guide, a groundbreaking report developed by former dancer Jason Yeung. We sat down with Jason to…

1
Dan Guin on Boca Ballet Theatre's Summer Workshop for College Dancers 1:38:14

5M ago1:38:14

1:38:14

Join us as we talk with Dan Guin, Co-Artistic Director of Boca Ballet Theatre, about their Advanced Summer Performance Workshop. This five-week program offers dancers the unique opportunity to work directly with artistic directors from top ballet companies, gaining invaluable experience and exposure. Dan shares how the workshop has become a launchp…

1
Cindy Surman, Boca College Dance Fair 1:12:22

5M ago1:12:22

1:12:22

Ballet Help Desk interviews Cindy Surman of Boca Ballet Theater about their College Dance Fair, an event that brings together top college dance programs and aspiring dancers. Learn how the fair helps students and parents navigate higher education in dance, what sets it apart, and its role in shaping the next generation of performers. This episode o…

1
Kit Holder, Birmingham Royal Ballet 2 1:22:50

5M ago1:22:50

1:22:50

Kit Holder, Artistic Coordinator of Birmingham Royal Ballet 2, offers an inside look at life within the company, from what a typical day looks like to the performance opportunities they can expect to the career planning support provided. He also addresses how the company prepares dancers for the demands of a professional ballet career, both inside …

1
Nicholas Ziegler, Finnish National Ballet Youth Company 47:13

5M ago47:13

47:13

What’s life like in the Finnish National Ballet Youth Company? Artistic Coordinator Nicholas Ziegler shares his insights on the program, discussing the dancers’ performance schedule, the structure of their compensation as well as the professional opportunities that set this youth company apart. Hear how the program balances intensive training with …

1
Fran Veyette on Potential, Body Type and Facility in Ballet - a re-release 1:13:07

6M ago1:13:07

1:13:07

We're re-releasing one of our most popular episodes! Ballet Help Desk sat down with Francis Veyette, former principal dancer with Pennsylvania (now Philadelphia) Ballet, Co-Founder of the Veyette Virtual Ballet School and newly appointed Rehearsal Director & Outreach Manager for Indianapolis Ballet. In this episode, Fran breaks down loaded terms li…

1
Lauren Anderson & Dr. Jessica Klanderud: Breaking Barriers and “Being Seen” in Ballet 1:23:46

6M ago1:23:46

1:23:46

In this episode, we’re joined by Lauren Anderson, the first Black principal dancer with Houston Ballet, and Dr. Jessica Klanderud, a professor of African American history and ballet parent. Lauren reflects on her groundbreaking career, shares her thoughts on ballet competitions, and discusses the industry's ongoing diversity challenges. Dr. Klander…

1
Elizabeth Sullivan, Mental Fitness for Parents During Audition Season 1:03:47

6M ago1:03:47

1:03:47

In this episode, Elizabeth Sullivan, a mentor to pre-professional dancers, discusses the concept of mental fitness and why it’s essential for ballet parents. We explore the challenges of guiding young dancers through an increasingly complex ballet landscape—where training opportunities are vast, but professional roles remain limited. Elizabeth offe…

1
Griff Braun, American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA) 1:34:23

6M ago1:34:23

1:34:23

In this episode Griff Braun, National Organizing Director of the American Guild of Musical Artists, discusses the role of unions in the ballet world. Griff shares insights into AGMA’s advocacy for dancer rights, safety, and equitable treatment, including their recent work supporting the dancers of Dallas Black Dance Theater. He illustrated the chal…

1
Caitlin Sloan, On Building Your Ballet Career With Intention 1:03:05

6M ago1:03:05

1:03:05

In this episode, we talk with Caitlin Sloan, the Brainy Ballerina, about her approach to audition coaching. Caitlin explains how she helps students develop personalized audition strategies that consider more than just ballet, setting them up for success in and beyond the studio. Learn more about Caitlin and The Brainy Ballerina on her website. And,…

1
Jess Spinner, The Whole Dancer, on Preparing Dancers for Audition Season 1:10:04

7M ago1:10:04

1:10:04

In this episode, Jess Spinner of The Whole Dancer shares her approach to helping ballet dancers navigate the audition circuit. She offers strategies for auditioning, advice on setting a personalized audition plan that aligns with the type of job they’re aiming for, and insights on the mental, physical, and emotional preparation needed to stay groun…

1
Philip Neal, Ballet's Ultimate Cheerleader 1:24:01

7M ago1:24:01

1:24:01

In this episode, Philip Neal, former Principal Dancer with New York City Ballet and current Artistic Director of Next Generation Ballet, shares insights on shaping up and coming dancers, while championing the art of ballet. Neal discusses his transition from performing to directing, the importance of mentorship, and how he helps his dancers find pl…

1
Julie Bowers, Former Royal Ballet Dancer and Founder of Grad Pro - A New Path For Dancers 57:31

7M ago57:31

57:31

In this episode, we sit down with Julie Bowers, former Royal Ballet dancer and founder of Grad Pro, an innovative program designed to help dancers bridge the gap between training and professional careers. Julie shares how her experiences and insights into the challenges dancers face in today's job market, especially post-Covid, led her to create th…

1
Cecilia Iliesiu, PNB Principal Dancer: Career Coaching For Young Dancers 37:24

7M ago37:24

37:24

In this episode, we chat with Cecilia Iliesiu, Principal Dancer at Pacific Northwest Ballet and a ballet career coach. As we're headed into audition season, Cecilia discusses the importance of networking in the industry and offers practical tips for aspiring artists on building meaningful connections, setting career goals, and making informed decis…

1
Facebook Ballet Parent Groups: Moderators Unplugged (and Unfiltered) 1:34:42

8M ago1:34:42

1:34:42

Sometimes you just need to talk to other ballet parents! In this episode, we chat with three moderators of large Facebook groups for parents and caregivers of dancers as they spill the tea on what really goes on behind the scenes (hint: it’s sometimes a delicate dance). In our wide-ranging conversation, they share their experiences navigating the c…

1
Jaimie Tapper, Head of Performance Coaching at The Royal Ballet: Shaping the Future of Ballet 1:12:07

8M ago1:12:07

1:12:07

In this episode we sit down with Jaimie Tapper, Head of Performance Coaching at The Royal Ballet, to explore the significant changes she’s witnessed in ballet schools since her own dancing days. Jaimie discusses key challenges today’s ballet students face and questions whether schools are being asked to take on responsibilities they may not be equi…

1
Rachel Bar on Building Healthy Dancers: Inside Canada’s National Ballet School’s Wellness Program 51:14

8M ago51:14

51:14

In this episode we talk with Rachel Bar, Director of Research and Health at Canada’s National Ballet School, about the comprehensive wellness program designed to support the physical and mental health of ballet students. Rachel shares how the school integrates science-based practices to promote long-term dancer health, foster resilience, and create…

1
Kathleen Gaines, Founder, We Are Minding the Gap: Mental Health Advocacy in Ballet 1:07:54

8M ago1:07:54

1:07:54

In 2017, Kathleen Gaines shared her experience with depression in a Dance Magazine article titled “Why Are We Still So Bad at Addressing Dancers’ Mental Health?” The article quickly went viral, becoming one of the most-read in the magazine’s history, and inspired the creation of her organization, We Are Minding the Gap. In this episode, we sit down…

1
Social Media's Impact on Ballet: A Double Edged Sword 1:19:24

9M ago1:19:24

1:19:24

In this episode, we sit down with Kristin Deiss and Michelle Loucadoux, Founders of Danscend, to explore the good, the bad and the in-between of social media in the ballet world. While platforms like Instagram and TikTok offer dancers unprecedented opportunities to showcase their artistry, build communities, and gain visibility, they also bring cha…

1
Lauren Richter's Path to Recovery: Overcoming An Eating Disorder 59:07

9M ago59:07

59:07

This week's special guest is Lauren Richter, a former professional dancer and current Principal of the Tulsa Ballet Center for Dance Education. Lauren reached out to us because she thought it was important to let dancers hear her story. Join us as she recounts her journey through a years-long eating disorder, now in long-term recovery, as both a wa…

1
Monika Saigal: Nourishing the Dancer - Insights on Nutrition and Eating Disorders 1:12:09

9M ago1:12:09

1:12:09

We sit down with Monika Saigal, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Certified Eating Disorders Specialist, and former professional dancer, who works with professional ballet dancers and ballet students. Monika shares her expertise on the important role of nutrition in a dancer's life and offers valuable insights into the nuances of language surrou…

1
Dawn Smith-Theodore on Ballet Wellness Programs and the Role Trust and Shame Play in Eating Disorders Amongst Dancers 1:14:43

9M ago1:14:43

1:14:43

In this episode, we sit down with Dawn Smith-Theodore, a licensed therapist and author of the book Tutu Thin: A Guide To Dancing Without An Eating Disorder. In our conversation about ballet wellness programs, Dawn talks about the crucial role that teachers play in ensuring the success of these programs in ballet schools. During our conversation we …

1
Jennifer Fraser, PhD. On What Bullying Does to the Human Brain 2:10:59

9M ago2:10:59

2:10:59

Why do we claim to have zero tolerance for bullying when it remains pervasive in society? In this episode, we sit down with Jennifer Fraser to discuss the profound impact of bullying on the human brain. Jennifer uses scientific evidence to illustrate how bullying hurts not just youths' self-esteem and emotions, it has a physical impact on their gro…

1
Chloe Angyal: Why She's Cautiously Optimistic That Ballet Can Change 1:04:47

10M ago1:04:47

1:04:47

We're joined this week by Chloe Angyal, author of the widely regarded ballet book, Turning Pointe. Chloe addresses such issues as the "ballet brain" and how if affects dancers' willingness to accept problematic practices in the ballet world. We also discuss why she thinks ballet is in crisis, including how we tend to gloss over the authoritarian pa…

1
Shane Wuerthner On What It Will Take For Ballet Schools To Change 1:30:53

10M ago1:30:53

1:30:53

Join us for a candid conversation with Shane Wuerthner, former professional ballet dancer and current master trainer and teacher to hear him talk about how wellness programs in ballet schools have evolved since he was in training. Shane also weighs in on what he thinks of coded language, the power imbalance that exists in ballet as well as how impr…

1
Ballet Boundaries: Nicole Perry and Sarah Lozoff on Effective Communication 1:16:51

10M ago1:16:51

1:16:51

Intimacy direction in dance. What the heck is it, why is it important and how can these practices be brought into ballet training? Our guests, Nicole Perry and Sarah Lozoff, respected intimacy coordinators who have consulted with RudduR Dance as well as American Ballet Theater, share their expertise on how effective communication between dancers ca…

1
What We Would Have Done Differently as Dance Parents 26:33

11M ago26:33

26:33

In this episode, we revisit one of our earliest topics: "What would you have done differently as dance parents?" Join us as we reflect on our journey, sharing the mistakes we made and the invaluable lessons we learned along the way. Tune in for honest insights and practical advice for every ballet parent. We'll also tackle other listener questions …

1
Dancer Stories: Abigail Huang, Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre 16:05

11M ago16:05

16:05

In our first episode of Dancer Stories, Jenny and her daughter Abbey share how Abbey got her first ballet contract. Tune in to hear how a meeting about dorm policy violations at a summer intensive turned into an apprenticeship offer with Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre. After a last-minute decision to attend the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre Company Experien…

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Jenny Huang And Brett Gardner Podcasts

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