Building Better Dancers, Not Bigger Tricks with Ryen Ryals

Season 5 Ep:10 Where is dance heading? In this episode of The Dance Real Podcast, Kate Histon is joined by former dancer and studio owner, adjudicator, and Performing Arts High School Director, Ryen Ryals, for a thoughtful conversation about the future of dance education. Together they explore the growing pressure created by social media, the rise of trick-focused training, and why strong technical foundations, healthy studio culture, and emotionally intelligent teaching matter more than ever. This conversation is for dance teachers, studio owners, adjudicators, parents, and dancers who believe excellence and wellbeing can exist together. In this episode we discuss: • Why foundational training should never be sacrificed for bigger tricks. • The impact of social media on young dancers and their development. • The difference between a demanding teacher and a harmful teacher. • Building a positive studio culture for dancers, teachers, and parents. • Child safety and protecting young dancers. • Competition culture, judging, and what healthy competition should look like. • How adults can better support dancers through disappointment. • Why the future of dance depends on educating the whole dancer, not just the performer. If this conversation resonated with you, please like, subscribe, and share it with someone in the dance community.   Follow Ryen Ryles on Instagram @mrsryendance Follow Kate Histon: Website: Kate Histon Official Website Instagram: @Kate_Histon and @dance_real_podcast Instagram: @master_dancer_mindset YouTube: Kate Histon YouTube Channel Disclaimer: The Dance Real Podcast is a space for open, thoughtful conversations grounded in lived experience within the dance world. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the host. This episode is educational in nature and is not a substitute for medical, psychological, legal, or professional advice. If you require support in these areas, please seek guidance from a qualified professional. Any references to people, systems, or experiences are shared with the intention of encouraging reflection, dialogue, and learning within the dance community.