Leaving Home to Dance: What No One Prepares You For

In this episode of Dance Real, Kate speaks with Spencer Bloomfield, an 18-year-old dancer from regional New South Wales who has relocated to Germany to undertake full-time tertiary dance training at the Palucca University of Dance Dresden. Spencer reflects on what it has meant to leave home, family, and familiarity at a young age, and to step into adult life in a different country, culture, and language. Together, Kate and Spencer explore the emotional realities that often sit beneath the surface of overseas training opportunities, including loneliness, grief, identity formation, and the gradual process of adaptation. The conversation also touches on cultural differences between Australia and Germany, the experience of navigating language barriers, and the role that self-awareness and emotional literacy play in sustaining both wellbeing and growth during periods of major transition. This episode will be particularly meaningful for: Young dancers considering training away from home. Dance parents navigating the emotional side of letting their child leave. Educators interested in the developmental impact of elite training pathways. Anyone reflecting on belonging, identity, and growing up through change. 🩰 Stay Connected with Kate Follow Kate for more episodes, personal reflections, and real-talk on healing and integrity in the dance world: 🌐 Website: www.katehiston.com 📷 Instagram: @katehiston | @dance_real_podcast | @Master_Dancer_Mindset 🎧 Podcast: Dance Real Podcast – available on Spotify, Apple, and all major platforms Disclaimer: The Dance Real Podcast is a space for open, honest conversations rooted in real-life experiences within the dance world. What I share and what my guests share is based on personal perspective, not professional advice. If you’re seeking support for your mental health, legal matters, or business decisions, I encourage you to speak with a qualified professional. The views expressed by guests are their own and don’t always reflect mine. Any references to people, places, or situations are shared with respect and the intent to spark reflection, learning, and conversation not to harm or misrepresent. By engaging with this content, you acknowledge and agree that the host, guests, and Dance Real Podcast are not liable for any decisions made based on the information provided.