PODCAST · arts
Passion for Dance
by Dr Chelsea Pierotti
You train extensively as a dancer, but what about mental training? Have you ever trained your mental skills like confidence, focus, or resilience? When you tune in to Passion for Dance, that mental training is precisely what you get. You can learn from a sport psychology expert who understands the dance industry and can teach you how to elevate your performance and truly thrive on and off stage.Welcome to Passion for Dance, where your host, Dr. Chelsea, will bring the science of sport psychology into the dance studio. Each week, you will learn actionable strategies and new mindsets to build happier, more successful dancers.Dance teaches us to push through the pain to reach our goals, and we are used to criticism, tears, bleeding toes, and sore muscles. But now, psychological research has taught us more about mental health and resilience than ever before, and it's time to change our industry for the better. Being a dancer teaches us critical life skills, but that doesn't mean we have
Episodes
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A Note from Dr. Chelsea & the Future of the Show
While the show is on hold, you can check out all past 200+ episodes with all of the support and advice you expect from Dr. Chelsea. https://passionfordancepodcast.com If you have any questions or thoughts to share, you can always email Dr. Chelsea at [email protected] or send a message on...
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234: Feeling STUCK as a Coach and Navigating Career Transitions
In this episode of 'Passion for Dance,' Dr. Chelsea delves into career transitions… when do you know it's time for something new? She breaks down five key strategies to help navigate these pivotal decisions, including understanding emotional barriers, finding clarity through action, reframing...
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233. Nourishing Dance: Conversations on Food, Body Image, and Wellness with Monika Saigal
In this episode of Passion for Dance, Dr. Chelsea interviews Monika Seigel, MS, RD, CEDS-C, CDN a registered dietician, nutritionist and certified eating disorder specialist with a background in professional ballet. Monika discusses her holistic approach to nutrition for dancers, emphasizing the...
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232. A More Positive Convention Experience: Perfectionism, Confidence & Body Image with Ashley Mowrey
In this episode of Passion for Dance, Dr. Chelsea speaks with Ashley Mowrey, a mindset coach, former dance teacher, and part of the Embody Dance Conference team. They discuss the mental and emotional challenges dancers face, such as perfectionism, body image issues, and performance anxiety.…
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231. Ballet's Harsh Beauty and the Life Lessons we Learn, with Emily Sayre Smith
In this episode of Passion for Dance, host Dr. Chelsea interviews former professional dancer and author Emily Sayre Smith. They delve into Emily's memoir 'Smart Ass Memoir of a Mouthy Girl,' discussing how ballet's lessons of resilience and perseverance profoundly shaped Emily's life. The...
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230. How to Be a Mentally Tough Dancer Using The Power of the Four Cs
In this episode, Dr. Chelsea explores the concept of mental toughness in dancers by breaking down the Four C's: Control, Commitment, Challenge, and Confidence. She provides practical strategies for developing these skills to help dancers stay resilient under pressure, maintain motivation, embrace...
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229. Cultivating Accountability and Work Ethic in Dance Teams: Insights from 3 Coaches
In this special episode of Passion for Dance, Dr. Chelsea discusses strategies for fostering accountability and work ethic in dance teams with three distinguished coaches—Arianna from Washington, Jenna from Nebraska, and Edwina from New York. Each coach shares her approach to setting high...
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228. Self-Compassion in Dance: How to Balance Ambition with Kindness
In this episode of Passion for Dance, Dr. Chelsea talks about self-compassion in dancers who are usually very hard on themselves. Inspired by a listener's question, the episode explores how treating oneself with kindness can improve performance, enhance resilience, and bolster overall mental...
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227. Filling Buckets: A Simple Team Exercise for Connection and Kindness
In this episode of Passion for Dance, Dr. Chelsea shares a team-building exercise inspired by the children's book 'Have You Filled a Bucket Today?' The activity focuses on fostering connection and kindness among dancers by teaching them to recognize and appreciate positive actions from others.…
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226. Why Your Dance Team Has Cliques and 5 Ways to Handle It
In this episode of Passion for Dance, Dr. Chelsea discusses the negative impacts of cliques within dance teams and offers strategies to foster a more inclusive team culture. She shares 5 practical strategies with real tools you can implement today. Dance coaches, you can establish a culture where...
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225. Building Lasting Confidence in Dance: It Takes More than Affirmations
In this episode of Passion for Dance, Dr. Chelsea discusses the importance of building real, durable confidence in dancers. She explains that true confidence doesn't come from simply repeating affirmations but is grounded in the consistent practice of growth mindset principles through actionable...
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224. Motivation Vs. Discipline: Winning the Battle Against Procrastination
In this episode of Passion for Dance, Dr. Chelsea discusses the common issue of procrastination among dancers and offers practical strategies to overcome it. She highlights the importance of self-discipline over motivation and introduces 2 practical tools to help you stop procrastinating and see...
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223. What High-Achieving Dancers Do Differently
In this episode of 'Passion for Dance,' Dr. Chelsea explores the science behind peak performance for dancers, and shares the science-backed tools that help you reach your personal best. Dr. Chelsea shares 5 tools for training, recovery, and of course, mindset, to help you be the best possible...
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222. Navigating College Dance Team Recruitment with Abbey Nugent
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,...
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221. How to Create a Goal-Driven Culture Without Burning Out Your Dancers
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...
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220. Building Confidence That Lasts: Strategies Every Dancer Needs
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...
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219. 5 Trust Breakers Sabotaging Your Dance Team's Success and How to Fix Them
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...
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218. Building Better Dancers: Cultivating Confidence and Individuality in Dance with Jason Pickett
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...
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217. Beyond the Studio: 5 Life Skills You Learn from Dance
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....
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216. Mental Traps Dancers Fall Into and How to Break Free
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...
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215. Season Reflections: How Dancers Get Mentally Stronger in the Off-Season
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...
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214. Dancing with True Authenticity and Confidence with Choreographer Alexandra Beller
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…
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213. A Professional Dance Company's Whole Dancer Approach: Insights from Julie Opiel at Body Traffic
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...
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212. Embracing the Beginner's Mindset: Lesley Logan on Confidence, Imposter Syndrome, & Positive Habits
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...
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211. Addressing Favoritism in Dance Studios: Strategies for Teachers, Dancers, and Parents
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…
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210. Rhee Gold on Dance Education, Passion, Adaptability and Business Success
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…
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209. When it Feels Like You're Not Getting Better and You Don't Know Why
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…
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208. Using Meditation for Confidence and Competitive Success with Amber Fahey
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…
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207. When Jealousy Hits the Team: Understanding and Overcoming Teammate Tension
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...
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206. Building a Successful Dance Team Culture
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...
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205. Redefining Dance Team Leadership: From Captains to Collaborative Roles
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...
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204. From Passion to Profession: Finding Your Career Path with Coach Cheryl Polk
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...
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203. Should We Say "Leave It at the Door" in 2025? New Advice for Building Resilience with Dr Audrey Schnell
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...
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202. Blending Technical Excellence with Emotional Depth in Dance with Anabella Lenzu
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...
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201. Cultivating Optimism as a Teenage Competitive Dancer
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...
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200. The Four Pillars of Dance Excellence: Insights from 200 Episodes
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...
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199. Inside the Dance Industry: Nia Lonette's Path to Success in LA
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...
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198. No Loss, Only Lessons: Redefining Success in Dance
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...
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197. Empathy and Communication: Leadership Lessons with Jared Redick
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...
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196. Emotional Intelligence for Dancers: Part 3 Recovering and Maintaining Balance
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...
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195. Emotional Intelligence for Dancers: Part 2 Handling Negative Emotions
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,...
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194. Emotional Intelligence for Dancers: Part 1 Understanding Emotions
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....
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193. Embracing Sensitivity as a Professional Dancer: Bold Advice from Galit Friedlander
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…
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192. Dance in the Moment: Harnessing Mindfulness for Performance Excellence
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...
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191. Overcoming the Comparison Trap
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...
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New in 2025: A Shift in Focus and a New Website!
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…
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190. The Gift of Injury: Lessons from Professional Dancer Hannah Teutscher
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...
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189. Making It as a Professional Dancer: Auditions, Branding, and Career Advice with Justine Menter
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...
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188. Mentally Prepare for Competition with These 6 Mental Skills
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…
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187. Nutcracker Chronicles: Touching Stories and Helpful Advice from Professional Ballerina Janine Kovac
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...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
You train extensively as a dancer, but what about mental training? Have you ever trained your mental skills like confidence, focus, or resilience? When you tune in to Passion for Dance, that mental training is precisely what you get. You can learn from a sport psychology expert who understands the dance industry and can teach you how to elevate your performance and truly thrive on and off stage.Welcome to Passion for Dance, where your host, Dr. Chelsea, will bring the science of sport psychology into the dance studio. Each week, you will learn actionable strategies and new mindsets to build happier, more successful dancers.Dance teaches us to push through the pain to reach our goals, and we are used to criticism, tears, bleeding toes, and sore muscles. But now, psychological research has taught us more about mental health and resilience than ever before, and it's time to change our industry for the better. Being a dancer teaches us critical life skills, but that doesn't mean we have
HOSTED BY
Dr Chelsea Pierotti
CATEGORIES
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Passion for Dance have?
Passion for Dance currently has 241 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Passion for Dance about?
You train extensively as a dancer, but what about mental training? Have you ever trained your mental skills like confidence, focus, or resilience? When you tune in to Passion for Dance, that mental training is precisely what you get. You can learn from a sport psychology expert who understands the...
How often does Passion for Dance release new episodes?
Passion for Dance publishes regularly with 241 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to Passion for Dance?
You can listen to Passion for Dance on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Passion for Dance?
Passion for Dance is created and hosted by Dr Chelsea Pierotti.
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