Best Jenny Huang and Brett Gardner Podcasts (2025)

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Inside IBC Jackson with Executive Director, Mona Nicholas 1:08:32

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4h ago1:08:32

1:08:32

Mona Nicholas takes us behind the scenes of the USA International Ballet Competition in Jackson, Mississippi. She shares how the event is structured, what makes it different from other competitions, and why it attracts dancers from around the world, including professionals. We cover the selection process, scoring, advice for first-time competitors,…

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Inside IBC Helsinki with Nicholas Ziegler 32:40

7d ago32:40

32:40

Nicholas Ziegler, board member of IBC Helsinki, explains how the competition is structured, how dancers are selected, and what makes the event stand out. He shares tips for first-time competitors, talks about the role of the jury and master teachers, and reflects on the rapid growth of ballet competitions around the world. Learn more about IBC Hels…

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Racheal Nye On Shaping Ballet’s Next Generation 1:08:42

14d ago1:08:42

1:08:42

What does it take to raise dancers in today’s ballet world? Racheal Nye, Director of the Yvonne Chouteau School and Studio Company at Oklahoma City Ballet, shares why honesty, adaptability, and mental health are essential in training. We talk about the pressures of audition season, how social media influences young dancers, the role of parents, and…

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#NoThirds: Full-Time Ballet Training -- The Trade-Offs 1:34:28

21d ago1:34:28

1:34:28

When is it really time for a dancer to move into full-time training? In this episode of #NoThirds, we unpack the big factors that go into that decision. From the benefits of full-time programs and the right age to make the switch to how the social environment and quality of teaching can shape a dancer’s growth, we cover it all. Fran also gets hones…

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MOSA Ballet School: Redefining Dance Training 1:22:23

24d ago1:22:23

1:22:23

MOSA Ballet School was founded by a mother who wanted to create the kind of school she would have wanted her daughter to attend -- a place where students are truly heard and respected. Combining classical ballet, contemporary dance, and holistic training, MOSA focuses on developing not just the performer, but the whole dancer. The school emphasizes…

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How Male Dance Connection Helps Male Ballet Dancers Thrive- Part 2 1:09:04

28d ago1:09:04

1:09:04

This is part two of our series with siblings Bryce and Noelle Lee, who bring both the male and female ballet dancer perspective to the conversation. Bryce, founder of the Male Dance Connection, and Noelle share their experiences in ballet, highlighting both the challenges and successes male dancers face. They talk about the importance of mentorship…

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How Male Dance Connection Helps Male Ballet Dancers Thrive- Part 1 47:35

29d ago47:35

47:35

In this two-part series, siblings Bryce and Noelle Lee bring both the male and female ballet dancer perspective to the conversation. Bryce, Founder of the Male Dance Connection, and Noelle share their experiences in ballet, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of male dancers. They discuss the importance of mentorship, community, and supportive…

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Sarah Wroth: The Impact of State Mandates on IU Dance 49:32

1M ago49:32

49:32

In this conversation, Sarah Wroth discusses the current state of the ballet program at Indiana University, addressing concerns about state mandates and program restructuring. She emphasizes the strong support from the community and alumni, clarifies the differences between degree options, and reassures that current students will not be affected by …

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RAs Spill The Tea On Ballet Summer Intensives - A Rerelease 48:31

1M ago48:31

48:31

This is a rerelease of one of our popular episodes from our series on ballet summer intensives. Wondering how much the RAs see of student antics? More than you think! We're talking with Robert Fulton and Camille Kellems, both professional dancers and also RAs at ballet summer intensives. Get ready for a mix of insider info that's helpful for parent…

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#NoThirds: Thoughts From the Front of the Room 1:35:55

2M ago1:35:55

1:35:55

What do ballet teachers really want students and parents to understand? In this episode of #NoThirds, we tackle issues in ballet training from the perspective of the teacher -- what frustrates them, what motivates them, and what they wish families better understood about the training process. From managing expectations to building trust, we dig int…

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Miriam Landis: Finding Her Voice Beyond the Stage 1:37:22

2M ago1:37:22

1:37:22

Miriam Landis trained at the School of American Ballet, danced with Miami City Ballet, and now teaches at Pacific Northwest Ballet, all experiences that informed her work as the author of three young adult novels set in the ballet world. In this episode, she talks about the reality of the professional ballet path, the emotional and practical sides …

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Erika Mayall, MPT: The Importance of Ballet-Specific Health Care- Part 2 of 2 52:45

2M ago52:45

52:45

In Part 2 of our two-part interview with physical therapist Erika Mayall, we explore how ballet schools are supporting dancer health—and where they still fall short. Erika offers practical advice for dancers and families without access to dance-specific care, busts common ballet injury myths, and shares her favorite recovery tools and daily habits …

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Erika Mayall, MPT: The Importance of Ballet-Specific Health Care- Part 1 of 2 1:00:48

2M ago1:00:48

1:00:48

In Part 1 of our two-part interview with physical therapist Erika Mayall of Allegro Performance and Wellness, we dive into why ballet dancers need specialized care from providers who truly understand the unique demands ballet puts on the body. Erika shares her journey into working with dancers, how injury prevention differs for ballet artists, comm…

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Louisville Ballet’s Four-Year Studio Company: How It Works 1:16:05

2M ago1:16:05

1:16:05

Considering full-time or summer training at Louisville Ballet? Artistic Director Mikelle Bruzina and School Director Christy Corbitt Krieger explain how the school is structured, what the studio company experience involves, and how dancers transition into professional careers. They also share insights on tuition, housing, casting, and how dancers a…

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Full Circle: Madison Keesler's Ballet Journey 1:18:22

2M ago1:18:22

1:18:22

Former San Francisco Ballet soloist Madison Keesler shares the twists and turns of her ballet path—from falling in love with dance to navigating career pivots and returning to SFB more than once. She talks about leaving at the height of her career, what she’s up to now in New York, and the launch of Pointe of View, her new consulting business for d…

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#NoThirds: Should You Compete or Just Train? 1:30:22

3M ago1:30:22

1:30:22

Ballet competitions are more common than ever—but do dancers really need them? In our latest episode of #NoThirds, Fran weighs in on the role competitions play in today’s training landscape. He tackles key questions from parents and dancers alike: Are comps essential for landing trainee or second company spots? Do they actually help with long-term …

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Victoria Mazzarelli on Nurturing Talent at Nutmeg Conservatory 1:13:23

3M ago1:13:23

1:13:23

Victoria Mazzarelli, Artistic Director of the Nutmeg Conservatory, joins us to share what sets this independent ballet conservatory apart. Widely known for its warm and nurturing environment, Victoria covers everything from curriculum and housing to performance opportunities, as well as the school's postgraduate program. She also explains how Nutme…

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Barre Trash: Style With a Healthy Dose of Side-Eye 52:26

3M ago52:26

52:26

We all know that dancers have their own unique style. Welcome to our interview with the founders of Barre Trash, Lucas Labrador and Louis DeFelice as they let us in on ballet’s not-so-glamorous side—with honesty, humor, and a sharp eye for merch. In this episode, they talk about how Barre Trash was born, what the name really means, and how their si…

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How DeCruz Ballet Is Changing Ballet Training 1:21:48

3M ago1:21:48

1:21:48

Why open a ballet school in San Antonio? Former Pacific Northwest Ballet principals Lindsi Dec and Karel Cruz share what inspired them to found DeCruz Ballet, how their training model stands apart, and where they see their school fitting into the evolving ballet ecosystem. They discuss everything from attracting male students and navigating competi…

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

3M 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…

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

4M 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…

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

4M 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…

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

4M 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…

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

4M 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…

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

4M 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…

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

4M 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…

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Pointe Shoe Secrets with Riley Weber 1:39:12

5M 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!)…

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

5M 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…

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Dr. Selina Shah on Pointe Readiness 43:50

5M 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,…

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

5M 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…

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

5M 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…

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

5M 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…

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Introducing #NoThirds With Fran Veyette 15:13

6M 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:…

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

6M 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…

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

6M 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…

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

6M 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…

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

6M 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…

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Brittany Cavaco, The Ballet Agency 59:24

7M 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 …

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

7M 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…

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Dominic Walsh, Oregon Ballet Theatre 1:14:11

7M 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…

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

7M 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…

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

8M 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…

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

8M 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…

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

8M 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…

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

8M 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 …

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Nicholas Ziegler, Finnish National Ballet Youth Company 47:13

9M 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 …

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

9M 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…

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

9M 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…

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

9M 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…

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

9M 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…

Jenny Huang And Brett Gardner Podcasts