The Real Future

My guest today is Seji Gaerlan. Seji is a founding member of the Syde Project dance crew and the Producer of the Orange County based Bridge The Gap jams. I’ve photographed two of these events and was impressed by the spirit and quality of the jams. I invited him in to ask about his personal story and the motivation behind Bridge The Gap. He’s a really thoughtful observer of the Southern California dance community and of life in general, and we get pretty deep into discussion about both the dance world and his experience as a kid moving here from the Philippines. Seji is both humble and audacious and I think you’ll enjoy our conversation. So let’s get into The Real Future with Seji Gaerlan.CREDITSProduction, Writing, Concept, Design, Video, Audio, Music, Photography by John NyboerLINKSNyboer Photography Syde Project YouTubeChamber Creative

My guest today is Cassandra Tsolis.I first asked Cassie about being a guest last summer at Unimate 2025.  We were talking and she said she’d only been dancing for 6 years. I had to know more! How did she become such an explosive krumper in such a short period of time? We get into that story and how it relates to her writing a book and the development her somatic therapy program called Echo Movement. Cassie is someone who always grabs the crowd’s attention in a battle because she leaves it all on the dance floor every time. It was great to hear her story and I think you’ll enjoy our conversation.CREDITSProduction, Writing, Concept, Design, Video, Audio, Music, Photography by John NyboerLINKSNyboer PhotographyCassandra’s Book, “Coming Home To Me”Echo Movement IGNoé "Jbad" RiosBvck Originals YT

My guest today is Ernesto Galarza aka Precise. Precise is the Artistic Director for Versa-Style Legacy, and the Digital Content and Marketing Director for Versa-Style Dance Co. He’s also a member of the Soulbotics crew and one of L.A.’s best known dancers.  I’ve photographed him going back to 2017 and it was great to sit down and learn about his background. And because he has been a part of Versa-Style practically since the beginning, he has great insight into the history and values of this invaluable organization. We finished the podcast with a drum and dance session that you don’t want to miss. Let’s get into The Real Future with one of L.A.’s finest, Precise.CREDITSProduction, Writing, Concept, Design, Video, Audio, Music, Photography by John NyboerMovement by Ernesto Galarza aka PreciseLINKSNyboer PhotographySoulbotics CrewVersa-Style Dance Co.

I brought my Nord drum synthesizer to Unimate, the international robot and animation dance convention, for a series and drum and dance improvisations. If you are listening to an audio-only platform I really encourage you to change it up watch this on YouTube or Spotify - I’ll put a link in the show notes.This music and movement exchange features Australian animation and waving dancer Mitchell Trott. Mitch has been at all three editions of Unimate. His fluid, emotive style made an impression from the jump and every year he adds to his unique vocabulary that evokes  both contemporary dance and street styles. Like all good dancers, Mitch knows how to listen and our exchange really locked in from the start. Let’s get into a  Real Future drum and dance improv, with Mitchell TrottCREDITSNord Drum 3, Production, Writing, Concept, Design, Video, Audio, Music by John NyboerMovement by Mitchell TrottLINKSWatch this drum and dance session on YouTubeMitchell Trott Instagram Nyboer PhotographyUnimate Dance

I started this podcast to share the stories, history, and styles behind street dance culture. However, my guest today is visual artist and children’s book author Fuzz Garden. I was contacted by the public relations wing of pH Collective, a socially-conscious women-owned creative agency that is working with United Artists San Pedro, the organization that funded the soon-to-be released Mimi and The Silly Sea Lion. This unique book is not only a book for children, it was, thanks to vision of my guest, co-illustrated by students from Point Fermin Elementary. This podcast is ultimately about artists and community so I was happy to welcome the author into my studio to talk about the book and her personal story. Thanks to pH Collective for reaching out!CREDITSProduction, Writing, Concept, Design, Video, Audio, Music, Photography by John NyboerSpecial Thanks to pH Collective for connecting The Real Future with guest Fuzz GardenLINKSFuzz Garden’s SitepH CollectiveAngels Gate Cultural Center Studio Artist ProgramArts United San PedroMarine Mammal Care Center

My guest today is James Jimenez aka Animated J.I’ve always admired J for his category-defying style of movement, so I was eager to ask him about the evolution of his dance. We talk about his beginning steps in New York, to his developmental years in Allentown PA, to the present in L.A.. He’s also the first interviewer that I’ve interviewed, and we talked about the motivation behind his podcast Creative Movers; it’s on YouTube and I’ve linked to it in the show notes. This is a great conversation with a thoughtful artist and we conclude with a drum and dance exchange, so stick around until the end!CREDITSProduction, Writing, Concept, Design, Video, Audio, Music, Photography by John NyboerMovement by James Jimenez aka Animated JLINKSCreative Movers YouTubeSmart Mark’s YouTubeNyboer PhotographyAnimated J’s YT Channel

My guest today is Lily Frias. The dance world– a lot of it, at least–knows Lily as one third of the street styles-based professional dance crew Femme Fatale. With that trio, and as an individual artist, Lily’s CV includes work with Cirque du Soleil, Marc Jacobs, and Red Bull, and she’s appeared on So You Think You Can Dance and America’s Best Dance Crew.We talk about Femme Fatale’s story–how 3 women from 3 different countries came together to build careers and a lifelong sisterhood. Our conversation also tracks Lily’s journey from Durango, Mexico to L.A., and how being raised in 2 countries shaped her as a person and an artist. After the convo we filmed a drum and dance improv.CREDITSProduction, Writing, Concept, Design, Video, Audio, Music, Photography by John NyboerMovement by Lily FriasLINKSFemme FataleNyboer PhotographyUnbounded Dallace Zeigler performanceMesie ValeroStrike With Force IGLa Mera Mera IGCube Complex YT Channel

My guest today is Boogie Frantick. Born and raised in L.A., Frantick is an original member of the GR818ers, and also represents the Funny Bones and Mighty Zulu Kings crews. His foundation is popping, and his trademark style has made him a sought-after dancer including work with Snoop Dogg, Talib Kweli, and Egyptian Lover, and appearances on Dancing With The Stars, So You Think You Can Dance, and the late night shows of Jimmy  Fallon and Conan O’Brien. He is also an educator and takes his role in the community seriously as someone who is passing the torch to the next generation. We get into that topic, learn about how he integrated mime and animation into his dance, and talk about his personal story and how dance saved his life.CREDITSProduction, Writing, Concept, Design, Video, Audio, Music, Photography by John NyboerLINKSBoogie Frantick website GR818ers YouTube ChannelBoogie Frantick teaching at UnimateBoogie Frantick Australia showcase The Mexican (song)Señor WencasThe PilotBeat Street (film)Transcend (documentary)Nyboer PhotographyRadiotron - The story of a youth hip hop club

I paused the conversations for a couple of months because my studio is just too damn hot in the middle of summer, but fall is now in full swing and I’m back in action!My guest today is Lisa Bauford, aka L-Boogie. L-Boogie is a dancer, MC, educator, and the creative force behind the apparel brand Blame Boogie. She’s also the type of person who, whenever and wherever you might meet, makes you feel better about being alive, and I was really excited to have her as a guest.We talk about her Florida roots, coming up as a basketball player, and the street dance community’s ability to bring people together and break down social boundaries. In general we had a really good time and at the very end, I get a little Jook City dance lesson.CREDITSProduction, Writing, Concept, Design, Video, Audio, Music, Photography by John NyboerDance lesson track: Keep Jukin’ by Tampa Tony (2019) LINKSL-boogie IGBlame Boogie Etsy shopiLuminatePassing The CrownIvan “Flipz” Velez YTTampa Tony Keep Jukin’ (2019)The K-Wang

I brought my Nord drum synthesizer to Unimate 2025, the weeklong international convention for robot and animation dance, for a series and drum and dance improvisationsThis particular music and movement exchange features the amazing French street performer Kévin Théagène.  Kevin has come to L.A. pretty regularly in recent years, and I’m always happy to see him. He is a talented dancer and saxophonist, and has a warm, infectious personality. Enjoy!CREDITSProduction, Writing, Concept, Design, Video, Audio, Music, Photography by John NyboerMovement by Kévin ThéagèneLINKSKevin Theagene YouTubeUnimate DanceNyboer Photography

This Quick Hit episode is part of a series of drum and dance improvisations I recorded at Unimate 2025.I brought my drum synthesizer to the weeklong international convention focused on robot and animation dance.This music and movement exchange features Clocks, one of the world’s premier animation dancers, and one of the most amazing performers to come out of the street dance universe. He was also part of the Unimate faculty, and was a Unimate battle guest. Enjoy!CREDITSProduction, Writing, Concept, Design, Video, Audio, Music, Photography by John NyboerMovement by ClocksLINKSUnimate DanceNyboer Photography

I brought my Nord drum synthesizer to Unimate 2025, the weeklong international convention for robot and animation dance, for a series and drum and dance improvisationsThis music and movement exchange features Tiger Lily, a versatile and talented dancer who has experienced incredible artistic growth since moving to L.A. She is also part of the Unimate production team. Enjoy!CREDITSProduction, Writing, Concept, Design, Video, Audio, Music, Photography by John NyboerMovement by Tiger LilyLINKSUnimate DanceNyboer Photography

My guest today is dancer, choreographer, and model G’bari Gilliam, aka GQ. G’bari is one of the most talented dancers I’ve ever seen, and he absolutely lights up a room whenever he takes the stage. This is why he’s always in demand and has an impressive list of credits that includes work with Billy Porter, Bad Bunny, Disney, and Tyler Perry. I was really excited that he found the time to stop in for a conversation and a drum dance improvisation. CONTENTS00:00:00 - 00:01:00 Introduction00:01:01 - 01:09:54 Conversation01:09:55 - Drum/Dance ImprovisationCREDITSProduction, Writing, Concept, Design, Video, Audio, Music, Photography by John NyboerLINKSG’bari Gilliam YouTubeG’bari 2025 Club Jete Diamano Coura W. African Dance Co. Nyboer PhotographyFACT CHECKDuring the conversation I mistakenly attributed a quote to Stravinsky. The correct quote and attribution is: “Music begins to atrophy when it departs too far from the dance; that poetry begins to atrophy when it gets too far from music." —Ezra Pound 

In this Quick Hit short-form episode I explain why I photograph street dance. During my Episode 12 conversation, BeastBoi asked me how I got connected to the dance community. This gave me an opportunity to answer that question and to thoroughly explain the motivation behind my work.

This episode is the start of a new short-form series I’m calling Quick Hits. It's a drum and dance improvisation similar to those that conclude most of The Real Future conversations. These non-verbal exchanges are popular, so I decided to bring my drum synthesizer to Unimate, a weeklong international convention focused on robot and animation dance styles. Thank You to Jaja Vankova and Slim Boogie for welcoming The Real Future to Unimate 2025. It’s been amazing to participate as a photographer, and this year I was able to share music and movement exchanges with some of the dancers. These are completely spontaneous - we select a sound palette, then just go for it! This Quick Hit features Ray Psalm, a dancer from Washington D.C. who contributes her warm spirit and calm presence to the Unimate production team. CONTENTS0:00-1:15 Introduction1:16-4:50 Drum/Dance ImprovCREDITSProduction, Writing, Concept, Design, Video, Audio, Music, Photography by John NyboerLINKSNyboer Photography Unimate Dance

My guest today is Sheopatra Jones, aka She Street aka She. I am really excited to share this conversation, and the drum/dance improvisation that follows. She has been mentioned by multiple guests as an influence and mentor, and following these connections is what this podcast is all about. As a dancer, videographer, director, and choreographer, She Street has worked with a long list of artists including Missy Elliot, Pharrell, Snoop Dogg, Donald Glover, and Estelle. She Street has also formed The Council, an L.A.-based Empowerment Collective that creates space and support for women through the medium of art. The Council is also an undeniably inspiring group of movement artists-follow the links in the description to see some of their work.Our conversation explores her upbringing in Memphis, her organic development as an artist, and the origins and meaning of The Council.We also have a drum and dance exchange that is truly an exchange - She plays drums and we took turns at the kit.CONTENTS00:00:00 - 00:01:33 Introduction00:01:00 - 00:01:33 Conversaton01:18:26 - 01:20:50 Nyboer drum / She dance improvisation01:20:51 - 01:22:30 She drum / Nyboer dance improvisationCREDITSProduction, Writing, Concept, Design, Video, Audio, Music, Photography by John Nyboer/Nyboer PhotographyLINKSShe Street YouTubeThe Council InstagramLaShonté AndersonSmooth Galaxy TikTok Lil Buck YouTubeJon Boogz YouTubeEllen Oscars PromoEstelle New Direction Video

My guest today is dancer and visual artist Jon Jimenez, aka Jon Gifted. As a dancer, Jon is a member of the pioneering Wave Gang, the  Newz Fam trump family , and the Rock Solid crew out of Dallas. He also works behind the scenes as a videographer and film maker. Gifted has a welcoming personality and a calm presence, and beneath all of that is someone intensely dedicated to his craft. When you see him move, as you will at the end of this episode, there is an intrinsic fluidity behind his expression. We talk about the origins of his organic approach to movement, his Latino cultural roots, and the growth of waving within dance. He also asks Me some questions about the roots of my photography. CONTENTS0:00 - 1:14:10 Conversation1:14:11 - 1:24:57 Gifted asks Nyboer about his photography1:24:57 - end Drum/Dance improvisationLINKSNyboer PhotographyNewz FamHampton Williams Boogie FrantickTengo TalentoBomba Estereo/Will Smith Siesta Wave GangKittridge WavesGr818ers

My guest today is Brandon Juezan, aka BeastBoi. Brandon is the Creative Director of Touring and Events for Versa-Style Dance Co., a Hip Hop dance instructor for Steezy Studio, and a member of the international Krump family Beast Camp. This is a unique episode. Before our conversation, I took a dance lesson with Beastboi and in the intro you will see some footage of my attempts at hip hop foundation. When he came to the studio a couple of weeks later, our extensive exchange explored his personal story, what it takes to manage and fund a non-profit dance company, and the significance of Krump’s increasing popularity. He also asked me how I entered into the street dance community, which gave me a chance to talk about the “Why” behind my photography and this podcast. I broke that out into a separate episode. We finished up with a nice drum and dance exchange that you don’t want to miss. Let’s  get into The Real Future with Brandon Juezan.• CONTENTS• 0:00-1:30 Intro1:31-1:02:43 Conversation1:02:44-1:07:00 Drum and Dance Improv• CREDITS •Production, Writing, Concept, Design, Video, Audio, Music, Photography by John Nyboer. Special Thanks to Versa-Style Dance Co. for permission to use dance lesson footage.• LINKS •Versa-Style ⁠Roundball Rock ⁠Rennie Harris ⁠Buddha Stretch Marjory Smarth ⁠Sho Tyme ⁠⁠Beast Camp⁠

My guest today is Randi Freitas aka Rascal Randi. Randi is best known as a B-girl but she’s built a career that goes beyond breaking.  She’s a choreographer whose work has been on prominent stages including the Lincoln Center. As an educator, Randi developed Omega Flow, a floorwork training method, and launched Dancers U, an artist education program that provides creative space along with an entrepreneurial and financial curriculum. I learned about her roots in the California Bay Area breaking scene,  talked about what it takes to fund a full-blown education program, and discussed how the current political environment threatens the arts.CREDITSProduction, Writing, Concept, Design, Video, Audio, Music, ⁠and Photography by John Nyboer⁠LINKSNyboer PhotographyParadox SalBeat FreaksFemme FataleSherry Lin, MFA, RDNPassing the CrownWondersmith (Juliette Jones)Wolfpack pieceOmega Flow

My guest today is Malik Bannister aka Gvmby. Gumby is a professional dancer, fluent in multiple styles with a natural gift for showmanship. He’s also a creative director for film, and a a dance educator, including a role as a teaching artist with Heidi Duckler dance. Malik brought a lot of energy to the studio–and an extra set of bunny ears–for our conversation that touched on everything from his origin story to the strange place that is Los Angeles.CONTENTS0:00 - 14:54 : Conversation14:55 - End : Drum/DanceCREDITSProduction, Writing, Concept, Design, Video, Audio, Music, Photography by John NyboerLINKSGvmbyTvKodachromeKnoxNorman Cunningham aka BrnxFriidom's TEDx TalkSomething New Dance VideoW.E.B. DuBois - Souls Of Black FolkRedlining HistoryBruce’s Beach

My guest today is Jaylin Sanders. Jaylin moved to LA from Nashville in 2021 to both attend college and pursue his dance career. He had been working as a professional dancer since the age of 15, has a level-headed approach to the entertainment industry that belies his years. He’s worked with Dolly Parton, Wayne Brady, and got a lot of exposure in the 18th season of So You Think You Can Dance when he made it to the top 6. Jaylin is a self-described extrovert and I really enjoyed getting to know the real person behind the exuberant personality. I think you will too, so let’s get into The Real Future with Jaylin Sanders.CREDITS:Production, Writing, Concept, Design, Video, Audio, Music, Photography by John NyboerLINKS:Weezy The Phoenix Tee KustinThe Artist Project Dolly PartonJungleShay Latukolan Everything Raw

My guest today is Saleh Simpson aka Robozilla. Since moving to L.A. in the middle of pandemic lockdowns, he’s been winning battles all over California and his reputation has really started to grow, as evidenced by his travels to Paris and Singapore. Choreographers are catching on as well, leading to recent work with Snoop Dog and Bad Bunny.We had a wide-ranging conversation including a story about Twitch, the meaning of “animation” in dance, and how growing up in a tough environment shaped his character. We’ve collaborated on several visuals over the years and I’ve cut some of that footage into the video version of this podcast, including a really unique one at the end. CREDITSProduction, Writing, Concept, Design, Video, Audio, Music, Photography by John NyboerSpecial thanks to Raquan "Chef" Jackson for garage training session and continued support.LINKSTeddy Forance at CLI StudiosQuan TranMegamanBopppin Andre TutorialAnimated J YouTube ChannelBad Bunny iHeart radio Awards 2025

My guest today is Shantel Ureña. Shantel is one of the first dancers I photographed and has experienced incredible growth during her 10 years in Los Angeles. As a dance artist, she’s choreographed her own stage pieces, created films, taught classes, and competed in the battle scene, all while expanding the range and foundation of her expre    ssive movement.We talked about her upbringing in Tampa - Shantel is yet another Florida dancer who brought her dopeness to the Left Coast - about her growing career, and about building a more inclusive scene for younger generations. At the end she made it inclusive for older generations as well by teaching me how to dance merengue. I really enjoyed our conversation and I think you will too, so let’s get into The Real Future with Shantel Ureña.CREDITSProduction, Writing, Concept, Design, Video, Audio, Music, Photography by John NyboerLINKSLas Chicas del Can, “Ta Pillao” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r454DD4EttYVyb Studio https://www.vybdance.comYoe https://www.youtube.com/user/LiitleDancer1234Frantick unimate https://youtu.be/qXjSfLWMj1wShe/THE Council https://www.youtube.com/@TheSHEstreetWhat Happened Miss Simone? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z7jIOawq8y8Toyin https://www.youtube.com/user/toyindanceBoujee Block https://www.youtube.com/@boujeeblocktv/videosGenerational wealth https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F7r-27CaVbwRated F https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hL7rXUMKLsQC Aguilera y Ozuna https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pTqL6pHnAlY

My guest today is Hans Pierre. I met Hans at one of the legendary Battle Games, introducing myself after I saw him perform a headspin in exuberant fashion. After I met him, it confirmed my instincts that his infectious energy is   very much for real. Hans is not only a dancer, but an educator, the producer of Thesis Dance Festival, and in recent times has been the hardest working DJ in street dance. He’s also a major sneaker enthusiast, but that subject is gonna have to wait until next time. You’re about to meet a really special type of person, so let’s get into The Real Future with Hans Pierre.CREDITSProduction, Writing, Concept, Design, Video, Audio, Music, Photography by John NyboerREFERENCE LINKSJetlife ApparelIsiah Beasley SoloJammin Da Beat 2010Flooridians ChannelCrew Love VideoThesis Dance Fest Channel

My guest today is Madaline Riley. Like most people in the street dance community, I first knew her as Mad Linez, the angular mover who constantly challenged herself to integrate new foundations into her ever-evolving style.Over time I learned that Madaline is a multi-disciplinary artist who works in both visual arts and performance production. She creates and collaborates on works that blend choreography, acting, fashion, and painting. I’ve had the privilege of seeing a wide range of her output;  it’s always compelling and never boring.  Her pieces may be challenging and rooted in multiple traditions, but behind all of this is someone who just wants everyone to f*¢k!ng dance!We talked about her origins as a non-conformist, about  the evolving roles of women in street dance, and about where she’s headed as an artist. I’m pretty sure that  this won’t be the last time you hear from her, but for now, let’s get into The Real Future with Madaline Riley.Reference LinksGhostRyatThe Corner SessionDread/UltraZheaniEmma PortnerAm I Falling or FlyingIf I Was Your Body

My guest today is Keumsae Pae, one of the world’s best robot dancers. The robot style is not simply about imitating mechanical movement; rather, it embodies a philosophy of a robot trying to become human. This implies an emotional struggle, and Keumsae, with her subtle, detailed, movement,  creates narrative arcs that bring this struggle to the surface. She is, quite honestly, the rare dancer who can bring tears to my eyes.She is also an essential member of the L.A. street dance community . When all of us were struggling during the pandemic lockdowns, Keumsae organized the legendary  Bridge Sessions. While everything else was closed, this pedestrian bridge on 3rd and Figueroa Streets became a vital gathering spot 2 nights a week, from 9pm until verrryyyy early the next morning. It started small but as things opened up, it became a required destination for anyone who was in town. Boppin Andre and Tabo started to come out, and it evolved into a place to learn from legends. We had a great conversation and concluded the with a drum and dance exchange. Let’s get in to The Real Future with Keumsae Pae.

My guest today is Darrel “Friidom” Dunn. Friidom is a dancer, and we’ll discuss how he got started in the Dallas-area krump scene. Friidom is a choreographer, and he’s in his first year as a MFA candidate at The California Institute of the Arts.Friidom is a philosopher, and he’s innovated a movement philosophy he calls Epiic.Friidom is a producer - he has produced countless improvisational narrative works that take dancers and audiences to new places in the context of live performances.But what makes Friidom really special is his ability to bring people together. Artists join his productions because he puts them in roles that  maximize their abilities. And for audiences, his unique approach to staging creates connections that build community.I’ve had the privilege to photograph many of these productions and whether they’re in a theatre or a parking lot, on a rooftop  or in a barbershop, they obliterate the 4th wall in a way that is more connective than it is confrontational. So let’s keep the connection going and get into The Real Future with Friidom.Credits:Production, Writing, Concept, Design, Video, Audio, Music. Photography: John Nyboer

My guest today is Dustin Payne, aka DPayne.You might know him from SYTYCD15 where he made the Top 20, or from music videos with DaBaby, Kid Cudi, or Kurtis Blow.If you participate in the LA dance scene you DEFinitely know D Payne, and near the end of 2024 you might have seen him win the hip hop category of Versa-Style’s 18th LTMMY battle. CREDITS:Production, Writing, Concept, Design, Video, Audio, Music, and ⁠Photography by John Nyboer⁠.

Son Lam Nguyen happened to be in town just as I was launching this podcast, and I was lucky enough to be able to book him as my first guest! 0:00 - 2:00 Introduction 2:01-49:14 Conversation 49:15 Drum/Dance Improvisation Son Lam came to Los Angeles in 2017 on the heels of winning So You Think You Can Dance Vietnam. His talent, commitment, and open personality have earned him a lot of love and respect in the L.A. street dance community, and that reputation has gone global.He won the 2024 Red Bull Dance Your Style U.S. Championship in Atlanta, which sent him to the World Final in Mumbai. To finish off the year, his all-Vietnamese team with MT Pop and Rufu won the Flava Of The Year 3 on 3 title.Back home in Ho Chi Minh City, he co-founded Movement Art Research, a Yoga and Dance Studio.CREDITS:Production, Writing, Concept, Design, Video, Audio, Music, and Photography by John Nyboer.Photographs of SonLam Nguyen in Ho Chi Minh City by Phu Thanh Tran.