Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast

Guests - Katie Kruse and Julie Kay Stallcup 

Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor

In Episode 82 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, we are exploring the differences and similarities between recreational and competitive dance with two fantastic guests, IDA judge Katie Kruse and dance educator Julie Kay Stallcup.

Topics Include:

• Definitions of recreational dance and competitive dance (and how those definitions can change depending on venue)
•  Advice for parents and studio owners to streamline their recreational or competitive dance experience
•  The evolution of dance competitions to include recreational and intermediate divisions, and the pros and cons of those decisions

If you love Making The Impact and want to support our podcast, buy us a coffee now on Ko-Fi! Your donation will go directly towards helping create quality content for future episodes. We appreciate your support! ❤️

Follow your Hosts & Guests!

• Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz
• Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance
• Katie Kruse - @Krusekreations
• Julie Kay Stallcup - @Juliekaystallcup

Check out our guest’s current projects! 

Team Julie Kay

CRAVING FRESH IDEAS TO INSPIRE YOURSELF—AND YOUR DANCERS—IN THE CLASSROOM?

Receive expert guidance, group coaching and endless classroom resources EVERY MONTH in Julie Kay’s new membership program for dance teachers.

This episode is sponsored by:

Dance Costumes by Urzúa
Custom Dance Costumes and Dancewear for made every body!
Use code: IMPACT15 for 15% off all costumes and dancewear!


Check out IDA Affiliated Competition DecaDance Competition!
View their 2022 tour dates and register now at www.decdancecompetition.com

Join our NEW Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community

Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you! 

Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! 

Follow Impact Dance Adjudicators on social media @impactdanceadjudicators and for a list of affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at www.impactdanceadjudicators.com

Join your hosts Courtney Ortiz & Lesley Mealor at the Capezio Flagship Store in the heart of New York City for a LIVE podcast recording of Making the Impact!  PLUS - a bonus master class with Courtney, lunch at Capezio, swag bag freebies, dance wear discounts & more!

Saturday, March 30th, 2024 - RSVP and register for class now! 

In the December Edition of Q&A With Courtney LIVE, Courtney and special guest Danny Dwaine Wells II answer your questions on topics including:

•  Tips for new soloists
•  How to bring out artistry in young dancers
•  Ways to help dancers with expressing emotion on stage

CLICK HERE to send in your questions to be answered on a future Q&A with Courtney episode. You can request to stay anonymous or have Courtney give you a shout out live on the air!

If you love Making The Impact and want to support our podcast, buy us a coffee now on Ko-Fi! Your donation will go directly towards helping us create quality content for future episodes. We appreciate your support! ❤️

This episode is sponsored by:

ArrangeUs Dance Formations App. Download  now to manage your formations and transitions for all of your choreography needs!
Click here to try it now for FREE in the App Store!

Follow your Host & Guests!

• Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz
• Danny Dwaine Wells II - @TinyEars

Join our NEW Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community 

Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you! 

Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! 

For a list of affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at www.impactdanceadjudicators.com

Join your hosts Courtney Ortiz & Lesley Mealor at the Capezio Flagship Store in the heart of New York City for a LIVE podcast recording of Making the Impact!  PLUS - a bonus master class with Courtney, lunch at Capezio, swag bag freebies, dance wear discounts & more!

Saturday, March 30th, 2024 - RSVP and register for class now! 

Guests - Cici Kelley and Jenny Oehlwein

Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor

In Episode 80 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, networking is the name of the game! IDA judges and dance educators Cici Kelley and Jenny Oehlwein join Courtney and Lesley in a round table discussion about why networking is one of the key skills dancers should know to find success in the industry!

Topics Include:

•  How to network early by building your community
•  Why social media acts as your digital resume
•  How your worth ethic is tied to networking

If you love Making The Impact and want to support our podcast, buy us a coffee now on Ko-Fi! Your donation will go directly towards helping create quality content for future episodes. We appreciate your support! ❤️

Follow your Hosts & Guests!

• Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz
• Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance
• Cici Kelley - @cicikelley 
• Jenny Oehlwein - @jennyoehlwein 

This episode is sponsored by:

Level Up Dance Supplies - Dance Gear and Dance Bags!
Receive $10 off your next order with code: IMPACT21

Join our NEW Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community 

Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you! 

Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! 

Follow Impact Dance Adjudicators on social media @impactdanceadjudicators and for a list of affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at www.impactdanceadjudicators.com

Join your hosts Courtney Ortiz & Lesley Mealor at the Capezio Flagship Store in the heart of New York City for a LIVE podcast recording of Making the Impact!  PLUS - a bonus master class with Courtney, lunch at Capezio, swag bag freebies, dance wear discounts & more!

Saturday, March 30th, 2024 - RSVP and register for class now! 

Guests - Tracey Boon and Richard Riaz Yoder

Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor

In Episode 79 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, Courtney and Lesley are joined by dance educators Tracey Boone and Richard Riaz Yoder to have an important discussion about cultural appropriation in the competitive dance world.

Topics Include:

•  Thoughts on reasons why we see so much appropriation of other cultures in the dance competition world
•  Should cultural appropriation be penalized at competition?
•  How studio owners can best expose their students to other cultures and their dance styles

If you love Making The Impact and want to support our podcast, buy us a coffee now on Ko-Fi! Your donation will go directly towards helping create quality content for future episodes. We appreciate your support! ❤️

Follow your Hosts & Guests!

• Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz
• Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance
• Tracey Boon - @traboon1
• Richard Riaz Yoder - @richardriaz

Be sure to read Richard's recent article "Racism Has No Place on the Competition Stage: One Judge's Experience Watching 'Modern-Day Blackface'"

This episode is sponsored by:

Dance Costumes by Urzúa
Custom Dance Costumes and Dancewear for made every body!
Use code: IMPACT15 for 15% off all costumes and dancewear!

Check out IDA Affiliated Competition DecaDance Competition!
View their 2022 tour dates and register now at www.decdancecompetition.com

Join our NEW Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community 

Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you! 

Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! 

Follow Impact Dance Adjudicators on social media @impactdanceadjudicators and for a list of affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at www.impactdanceadjudicators.com

Join your hosts Courtney Ortiz & Lesley Mealor at the Capezio Flagship Store in the heart of New York City for a LIVE podcast recording of Making the Impact!  PLUS - a bonus master class with Courtney, lunch at Capezio, swag bag freebies, dance wear discounts & more!

Saturday, March 30th, 2024 - RSVP and register for class now! 

Guests - Richard Elszy and Katia Bode

Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor

In Episode 78 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, we are talking all about the minis! Joined by two phenomenal dance educators, Richard Elszy and Katia Bode, who specialize in teaching the youngest dancers, Courtney and Lesley learn what it takes to train amazing minis! (Hint - it  might be a lot of ballet).

Topics Include:

•  What makes a great mini teacher
•  Are tricks for minis necessary?
•  Tips to help minis focus and retain information

If you love Making The Impact and want to support our podcast, buy us a coffee now on Ko-Fi! Your donation will go directly towards helping create quality content for future episodes. We appreciate your support! ❤️

Follow your Hosts & Guests!

• Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz
• Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance
• Richard Elszy - @richardelszydance
• Katia Bode - @klbode90
• Woodbury Dance Center - @woodburydancecenter

Check out our guests' current projects! 

Don't miss Richard Elszy's upcoming session of Building Blocks of Dance (January 2022)

This episode is sponsored by:

Level Up Dance Supplies - Dance Gear and Dance Bags!
Receive $10 off your next order with code: IMPACT21

Join our NEW Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community 

Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you! 

Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! 

Follow Impact Dance Adjudicators on social media @impactdanceadjudicators and for a list of affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at www.impactdanceadjudicators.com

Join your hosts Courtney Ortiz & Lesley Mealor at the Capezio Flagship Store in the heart of New York City for a LIVE podcast recording of Making the Impact!  PLUS - a bonus master class with Courtney, lunch at Capezio, swag bag freebies, dance wear discounts & more!

Saturday, March 30th, 2024 - RSVP and register for class now! 

Guests -  Ashley Marinelli and Amy Maze

Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor

In Episode 77 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, Courtney and Lesley are joined by IDA judges and educators Ashley Marinelli and Amy Maze to get real about an often misunderstood category at dance competitions - the open category. 

Topics Include:

•  What dances should (and shouldn't) be entered into the open category
•  How the open category is judged
•  Judges' pet peeves about the open category

If you love Making The Impact and want to support our podcast, buy us a coffee now on Ko-Fi! Your donation will go directly towards helping create quality content for future episodes. We appreciate your support! ❤️

Follow your Hosts & Guests!

• Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz
• Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance
• Ashley Marinelli - @alm433
• Amy Maze - @mazeamy

Check out our guests' current projects! 

Check out Ashley's new work "The True and Unquestionable Account of Dr. Joseph Snodgrass" An Environmental, Musical Play premiering at The Player's Club in NYC 
May 12th-13th, 2022

This episode is sponsored by:

Dance Costumes by Urzúa
Custom Dance Costumes and Dancewear for made every body!
Use code: IMPACT15 for 15% off all costumes and dancewear! 

Join our NEW Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community 

Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you! 

Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! 

Follow Impact Dance Adjudicators on social media @impactdanceadjudicators and for a list of affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at www.impactdanceadjudicators.com

Join your hosts Courtney Ortiz & Lesley Mealor at the Capezio Flagship Store in the heart of New York City for a LIVE podcast recording of Making the Impact!  PLUS - a bonus master class with Courtney, lunch at Capezio, swag bag freebies, dance wear discounts & more!

Saturday, March 30th, 2024 - RSVP and register for class now! 

Guests: Denise H. Latimer & Lynise M Heard
Hosts: Courtney Ortiz & Lesley Mealor

Dancemakers of Atlanta, an NYCDA 2021 Outstanding Studio Winner, has a simple mission - to promote creativity, diversity and innovation while building outstanding leaders with excellent characters. Owners Denise Latimer and Lynise Heard sit down with us to discuss what makes Dancemakers of Atlanta special today on Making the Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast!

Follow Dancemakers of Atlanta on social media @dancemakersatlanta and be sure to check out:

- Photo Patch, a business started by a Dancemakers of Atlanta dancer, to connect children with their incarcerated parents.
- "Matter" NYCDA 2021 Performance
- "Black Panther" The Dance Awards 2019 Performance
- Dancemakers of Atlanta website

If you love Making The Impact and want to support our podcast, buy us a coffee now on Ko-Fi! Your donation will go directly towards helping us create quality content for future episodes. We appreciate your support! ❤️

This episode is sponsored by:

Dance Costumes by Urzúa
Custom Dance Costumes and Dancewear for made every body!
Use code: IMPACT15 for 15% off all costumes and dancewear! 

Follow your Hosts & Guests!

• Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz
• Lesley Mealor  - @miss.lesley.dance
• Dancemakers of Atlanta - @dancemakersatlanta

Join our NEW Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community 

Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you! 

Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! 

For a list of affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at www.impactdanceadjudicators.com

Join your hosts Courtney Ortiz & Lesley Mealor at the Capezio Flagship Store in the heart of New York City for a LIVE podcast recording of Making the Impact!  PLUS - a bonus master class with Courtney, lunch at Capezio, swag bag freebies, dance wear discounts & more!

Saturday, March 30th, 2024 - RSVP and register for class now! 

Guests - Danielle Ardizzone and Kelly Phinney

Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor

In Episode 75 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, we sit down with real-life dance moms Danielle and Kelly to find out how they budget for their kids' busy dance lives!

Topics Include:

•  What gets sacrificed to afford competitive dance
•  Tips and tricks to saving on dance essentials
•  Fundraising ideas

If you love Making The Impact and want to support our podcast, buy us a coffee now on Ko-Fi! Your donation will go directly towards helping create quality content for future episodes. We appreciate your support! ❤️

Follow your Hosts & Guests!

• Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz
• Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance
• Danielle Ardizzone - @thedancingdancemom
• Kelly Phinney - @kelly.phinney

Check out our guests' current projects! 

Visit Danielle's blog The Dancing Dance Mom for great deals on dance essentials! You can also check out her Facebook page for daily dance deals and to share the dance mom experience.

This episode is sponsored by:

Level Up Dance Supplies - Dance Gear and Dance Bags!
 Receive $10 off your next order with code: IMPACT21
 

Spirit of Dance Awards - IDA Affiliated Competition!
New England based dance competition committed to providing a fun, fair and exciting venue for dancers of all levels to showcase their passion in a positive environment!
Visit their website for 2022 season schedule and fall convention dates.


Join our NEW Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community 

Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Ko-Fi! We would love to hear from you! 

Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! 

Follow Impact Dance Adjudicators on social media @impactdanceadjudicators and for a list of affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at www.impactdanceadjudicators.com

Join your hosts Courtney Ortiz & Lesley Mealor at the Capezio Flagship Store in the heart of New York City for a LIVE podcast recording of Making the Impact!  PLUS - a bonus master class with Courtney, lunch at Capezio, swag bag freebies, dance wear discounts & more!

Saturday, March 30th, 2024 - RSVP and register for class now! 

Guests - Colin Shea Denniston and Kaelyn Gray

Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor

In Episode 74 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, we revisit a favorite topic from Season 2! Courtney and Lesley chat with IDA judge Colin Shea Denniston and industry professional Kaelyn Gray about why the right (or wrong) music can make or break a routine!

Topics Include:

•  Overused versus classic competition songs
•  Tips for finding unique music
•  Controversies surrounding music choices in the competitive world

If you love Making The Impact and want to support our podcast, buy us a coffee now on Ko-Fi! Your donation will go directly towards helping create quality content for future episodes. We appreciate your support! ❤️

Follow your Hosts & Guests!

• Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz
• Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance
• Colin Shea Denniston - @colindenniston
• Kaelyn Gray - @kaegraydance

Check out our guests' current projects!

-  “Three + A Break!” Series by Kaelyn Gray, from her Bring Tap To The People Tap Dance Tutorials
- Be sure to follow BTTTP @bringtap_tothepeople

This episode is sponsored by:

Download the ArrangeUs App now to manage your formations and transitions for all of your choreography needs!
Click here to try it now for FREE in the App Store!


Check out IDA Affiliated Competition Gems Dance Competition!
View their 2022 tour dates and register now at www.dancegems.com

Join our NEW Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community 

Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you! 

Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! 

Follow Impact Dance Adjudicators on social media @impactdanceadjudicators and for a list of affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at www.impactdanceadjudicators.com

Join your hosts Courtney Ortiz & Lesley Mealor at the Capezio Flagship Store in the heart of New York City for a LIVE podcast recording of Making the Impact!  PLUS - a bonus master class with Courtney, lunch at Capezio, swag bag freebies, dance wear discounts & more!

Saturday, March 30th, 2024 - RSVP and register for class now! 

Guests - Casie Goshow and Kat Martyak

Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor

In Episode 73 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, your hosts Courtney and Lesley are joined by dance company director Kat Martyak and convention faculty member Casie Goshow to break down the ins and outs of the dance convention scene!

Topics Include:

•  How to choose the right convention for your studio
•  Convention etiquette for dancers
•  The differences between competitions and convention-competitions

If you love Making The Impact and want to support our podcast, buy us a coffee now on Ko-Fi! Your donation will go directly towards helping create quality content for future episodes. We appreciate your support! ❤️

Follow your Hosts & Guests!

• Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz
• Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance
• Casie Goshow - @bgirltynee
• Kat Martyak - @katmartyak

Check out our guests' current projects! 

Be sure to visit Casie's clothing line at www.goshowyourself.com!

This episode is sponsored by:

Thrive Dance Experience offers one-day convention events in PA, NC, OH and NJ! Registration for their fall events is now open!
Use code: THRIVEWITHIDA for 5% off your registration!


Spirit of Dance Awards - IDA Affiliated Competition!
New England based dance competition committed to providing a fun, fair and exciting venue for dancers of all levels to showcase their passion in a positive environment! 
Visit their website for 2022 season schedule and fall convention dates.

Join our NEW Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community 

Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you!

Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! 

Follow Impact Dance Adjudicators on social media @impactdanceadjudicators and for a list of affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at www.impactdanceadjudicators.com

Join your hosts Courtney Ortiz & Lesley Mealor at the Capezio Flagship Store in the heart of New York City for a LIVE podcast recording of Making the Impact!  PLUS - a bonus master class with Courtney, lunch at Capezio, swag bag freebies, dance wear discounts & more!

Saturday, March 30th, 2024 - RSVP and register for class now! 

For our first Q&A with Courtney LIVE episode of Season 3, Courtney is joined by IDA Judge Joey Ortolani to sit down and answer your questions on topics including:

• What dance parents should know before investing in competitive dance
• The ingredients to a winning routine
• Studio habits judges see at competition
• How to know when it is time to change studios 
•  Career options for Dancers

If you love Making The Impact and want to support our podcast, buy us a coffee now on Ko-Fi! Your donation will go directly towards helping us create quality content for future episodes. We appreciate your support! ❤️

This episode is sponsored by:

Level Up Dance Supplies - Dance gear and Dance bags!
Receive $10 off your next order with code: IMPACT21

Dance Costumes by Urzúa
Custom Dance Costumes and Dancewear for made every body!
Use code: IMPACT15 for 15% off all costumes and dancewear! 

Follow your Hosts & Guests!

• Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz
• Joey Ortolani - @joeyorto
• IDA - @ImpactDanceAdjudicators

Join our NEW Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community 

Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you!  

Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! 

For a list of affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at www.impactdanceadjudicators.com

Join your hosts Courtney Ortiz & Lesley Mealor at the Capezio Flagship Store in the heart of New York City for a LIVE podcast recording of Making the Impact!  PLUS - a bonus master class with Courtney, lunch at Capezio, swag bag freebies, dance wear discounts & more!

Saturday, March 30th, 2024 - RSVP and register for class now! 

Guests - Mary Roberts and Christine Jones

Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor

In Episode 71 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, your hosts discuss the trends of overstretching and extreme flexibility with special guests Mary Roberts, IDA judge and jazz dance educator, and Christine Jones, owner of mUvmethod, a progressive conditioning program for dancers.

Topics Include:

•  True definitions of overstretching and hypermobility
•  Safer ways to achieve flexibility
•  Thoughts on stretching tools

If you love Making The Impact and want to support our podcast, buy us a coffee now on Ko-Fi! Your donation will go directly towards helping create quality content for future episodes. We appreciate your support! ❤️

Follow your Hosts & Guests!

• Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz
• Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance
• Mary Roberts - @msmaryroberts
• Christine Jones - @muvmethod

Learn more about mUvmethod and their courses!

The Stretch Solution - mUvmethod's  Level 1 flexibility training program, which trains instructors in the fundamentals of safe and effective stretching and provides access to our comprehensive weekly stretch curriculum for dancers ages 5 and up. 

This episode is sponsored by:

Dance Costumes by Urzúa
Custom Dance Costumes and Dancewear for made every body!
Use code: IMPACT15 for 15% off all costumes and dancewear!

Check out IDA Affiliated Competition Gems Dance Competition!
View their 2022 tour dates and register now at www.dancegems.com

Join our NEW Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community 

Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you! 

Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! 

Follow Impact Dance Adjudicators on social media @impactdanceadjudicators and for a list of affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at www.impactdanceadjudicators.com

Join your hosts Courtney Ortiz & Lesley Mealor at the Capezio Flagship Store in the heart of New York City for a LIVE podcast recording of Making the Impact!  PLUS - a bonus master class with Courtney, lunch at Capezio, swag bag freebies, dance wear discounts & more!

Saturday, March 30th, 2024 - RSVP and register for class now! 

Guests - Kausha Campbell and Nick Silverio

Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor

In Episode 70 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, the TikTok phenomenon is the name of the game! Joined by TikTok sensations Kausha Campbell and Nick Silverio, Courtney and Lesley chat about how these two former competitive dancers transitioned into the world of social media!

Topics Include:

•  The early days of dance for Kausha and Nick
•  Their TikTok origin stories
•  How being TikTokkers has changed their lives
•  The benefits and detriments of so much social media influence on dancers

If you love Making The Impact and want to support our podcast, buy us a coffee now on Ko-Fi! Your donation will go directly towards helping create quality content for future episodes. We appreciate your support! ❤️

Follow your Hosts & Guests!

• Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz
• Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance
• Kausha Campbell - @kausha_campbell 
• Nick Silverio - @nicksilverioo

Check out our guest’s current projects! 

Join the Artswrk community, the peer-to-peer professional network for artists!

Check out some of the videos we watched in the episode! 

Kausha's First TikTok
Kausha's Shuffle Swap
Carl's Jr. BLT Ranch
Nick's First TikTok
Nick's 5 Least Favorite Dance Competition Moves
Emcee Announcing Next Category

This episode is sponsored by:

Thrive Dance Experience offers one-day convention events in PA, NC, OH and NJ! Registration for their fall events is now open!
Use code: THRIVEWITHIDA for 5% off your registration!

Check out IDA Affiliated Competition Gems Dance Competition!
View their 2022 tour dates and register now!

Join our NEW Facebook Group and connect with us!

Join your hosts Courtney Ortiz & Lesley Mealor at the Capezio Flagship Store in the heart of New York City for a LIVE podcast recording of Making the Impact!  PLUS - a bonus master class with Courtney, lunch at Capezio, swag bag freebies, dance wear discounts & more!

Saturday, March 30th, 2024 - RSVP and register for class now! 

Guests - Angela Carter and Maddie Kurtz

Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor

In Episode 69 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, Courtney and Lesley are joined by veteran judge and educator Maddie Kurtz and choreographer and author Angela Carter to discuss the pros, cons, and everything in between of dancing in college.

Topics Include:

•  The best reasons to go to college for dance
•  Things to consider when choosing a dance college
•  Differences between BA, BFA, BS and BPA
•  Choices you can make besides going to college for dance

If you love Making The Impact and want to support our podcast, buy us a coffee now on Ko-Fi! Your donation will go directly towards helping create quality content for future episodes. We appreciate your support! ❤️

Follow your Hosts & Guests!

• Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz
• Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance
• Angela - @msangelacarter
• Maddie - @maddiekurtz92

Check out our guests' current projects!
Volume 3 of The Genius Guide to College Dance Programs by Angela Carter releases September 2021! Download e-book now on Amazon! 

This episode is sponsored by:

YoungArts
Applications are open for the 2022 National YoungArts Competition, available for artists ages 15-18 or in grades 10-12. Deadline to apply is October 15th, 2021. Learn more at www.YoungArts.org

Check out IDA Affiliated Competition Star Talent Productions!
View their 2022 season tour dates and register now at www.startalentproductions.com

Join our NEW Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community

Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you! 

Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! 

Follow Impact Dance Adjudicators on social media @impactdanceadjudicators and for a list of affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at www.impactdanceadjudicators.com

Join your hosts Courtney Ortiz & Lesley Mealor at the Capezio Flagship Store in the heart of New York City for a LIVE podcast recording of Making the Impact!  PLUS - a bonus master class with Courtney, lunch at Capezio, swag bag freebies, dance wear discounts & more!

Saturday, March 30th, 2024 - RSVP and register for class now! 

Guests - Erin Demers and Robb Gibbs

Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor

In Episode 68 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, props are the name of the game! Courtney and Lesley kick off Season 3 with IDA judges Robb and Erin to talk about prop use, prop pet peeves, and prop no-no's at competition!

Topics Include:

•  How to effectively use a prop
•  When props are and aren't necessary
•  Prop pet peeves from your judges
•  Proper prop etiquette

The blog that inspired this episode was released in March 2017, and titled “Prop Potential - The Do's and Don'ts For the Competition Stage!”. Read now!

Follow your Hosts & Guests!

• Courtney - @courtney.ortiz
• Lesley - @miss.lesley.dance
• Robb - @robb.gibbs 
• Erin -  @erindance2014

If you love Making The Impact and want to support our podcast, buy us a coffee now on Ko-Fi! Your donation will go directly towards helping create quality content for future episodes. We appreciate your support! ❤️

This episode is sponsored by:

Download the ArrangeUs app now to manage your formations and transitions for all of your choreography needs!
Click here to try it now for FREE and download in the App Store!

Check out IDA Affiliated Competition DecaDance Competition!
View their 2022 tour dates and register now!

Join our NEW Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community 

Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you! 

Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! 

Follow Impact Dance Adjudicators on social media @impactdanceadjudicators and for a list of affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at www.impactdanceadjudicators.com

Join your hosts Courtney Ortiz & Lesley Mealor at the Capezio Flagship Store in the heart of New York City for a LIVE podcast recording of Making the Impact!  PLUS - a bonus master class with Courtney, lunch at Capezio, swag bag freebies, dance wear discounts & more!

Saturday, March 30th, 2024 - RSVP and register for class now! 

Season 3 of Making the Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast kicks off with our very first Studio Spotlight Feature episode, showcasing Project 21, owned and operated by Molly Long in Orange County, CA. A professional training program which aims to prepare young dancers for a career in the commercial dance world, Project 21 has been seen on World of Dance, gracing the cover of Dance Spirit Magazine, and receiving recognition by The Dance Awards like Top Jazz Studio. Tune in to hear about how Project 21 evolved into the program it is today and how they are so successful!

Follow Project 21 @project21official and be sure to check out...
Dance Spirit Magazine article
"Post That" jazz routine
Project 21 Youtube
Project 21 website

Is there a studio you'd like to see featured on our upcoming Studio Spotlight Features? Share your recommendations by shooting us an email at podcast@impactdanceadjudicators.com.

Follow your hosts and guests!

• Courtney Ortiz- @courtney.ortiz
• Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance
• Molly Long - @mollylong21
• Impact Dance Adjudicators - @impactdanceadjudicators

If you love Making The Impact and want to support our podcast, buy us a coffee now on Ko-Fi! Your donation will go directly towards helping us create quality content for future episodes. We appreciate your support! ❤️

This episode is sponsored by:

Level Up Dance Supplies - Dance gear and Dance bags!
Receive $10 off your next order with code: IMPACT21
 
Spirit of Dance Awards - IDA Affiliated Competition!
New England based dance competition committed to providing a fun, fair and exciting venue for dancers of all levels to showcase their passion in a positive environment! 
Visit their website for 2022 season schedule and fall convention dates.

Join our NEW Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community 

Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you! 

Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! 

For a list of affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at www.impactdanceadjudicators.com

Join your hosts Courtney Ortiz & Lesley Mealor at the Capezio Flagship Store in the heart of New York City for a LIVE podcast recording of Making the Impact!  PLUS - a bonus master class with Courtney, lunch at Capezio, swag bag freebies, dance wear discounts & more!

Saturday, March 30th, 2024 - RSVP and register for class now! 

Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor

In the Season 3 Opener of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, your hosts Courtney and Lesley catch up on their summers, reminisce on Season 2, and share some fun news about the upcoming season!

Topics Include:

•  Welp Magazine ranking as one of the Top Dance Podcasts of 2021
•  Recap of Season 1 and Season 2 highlights
•  Podcast cover art contest and winners
•  New Studio Spotlight Feature episodes in Season 3 

Follow your Hosts:

• Courtney - @courtney.ortiz
• Lesley - @miss.lesley.dance

If you love Making The Impact and want to support our podcast, buy us a coffee now on Ko-Fi! Your donation will go directly towards helping us create quality content for future episodes. We appreciate your support!

Join our NEW Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community

Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you! 

Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! 

Follow Impact Dance Adjudicators on social media @impactdanceadjudicators and for a list of affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at www.impactdanceadjudicators.com

Join your hosts Courtney Ortiz & Lesley Mealor at the Capezio Flagship Store in the heart of New York City for a LIVE podcast recording of Making the Impact!  PLUS - a bonus master class with Courtney, lunch at Capezio, swag bag freebies, dance wear discounts & more!

Saturday, March 30th, 2024 - RSVP and register for class now! 

Guests - Holly Gannett and Rachel Gentry

Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor


In Episode 66 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, co-hosts Courtney and Lesley are joined by IDA judges and teachers Holly and Rachel to discuss the upcoming summer dance season as well as the 2022 competition season, and all the emotions that come with looking ahead!

Topics Include:

• How to keep dancers motivated as we conclude this year of training and competition and head into the summer
• The obstacles that we have faced this season and what methods and tactics we will take with us into the next dance year
• Nationals preparation tips
• Summer training and continuing education

Follow your Hosts & Guests!

• Courtney - @courtney.ortiz
• Lesley - @lesley.mealor
• Holly - @hollcol7
• Rachel - @rachgentry

This episode is sponsored by:

Werk Dancewear - Activewear for dreams in motion.
Enter code werkdance20 at checkout to save 20% today.

Join our NEW Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community

Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you! 

Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! 

Follow Impact Dance Adjudicators on social media @impactdanceadjudicators and for a list of affiliated dance competitions, visit our website atwww.impactdanceadjudicators.com

Join your hosts Courtney Ortiz & Lesley Mealor at the Capezio Flagship Store in the heart of New York City for a LIVE podcast recording of Making the Impact!  PLUS - a bonus master class with Courtney, lunch at Capezio, swag bag freebies, dance wear discounts & more!

Saturday, March 30th, 2024 - RSVP and register for class now! 

Hosted by Courtney Ortiz & Lesley Mealor

After 41 episodes, 75 guests and over 75K downloads, Season 2 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast is coming to a close! Join your hosts for a Season 2 wrap up with a look back at some favorite highlights, many shoutouts and thank you's, and a sneak peek at what's to come for S3! 

Follow your Hosts

• Courtney @courtney.ortiz
• Lesley @ lesley.mealor
• IDA @impactdanceadjudicators 

This episode was sponsored by:

Dance Device Lab - In-studio workshops and Adjudication Showcases!
Learn more on their website to have a DDL event come to your studio!

Level Up Dance Supplies - Dance Gear, Bags, and Accessories!
Use our promo code: BRAVO5678 at checkout to receive $10 off your order!


What topics do you want to see on Season 3 of Making the Impact? Shoot us an email and share as we prep and brainstorm for next season over the summer! Email us with your ideas and requests at: podcast@impactdanceadjudicators.com


Be sure to join our new Facebook Group to stay connected during the off-season - Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community.

Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you!

Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! 

Thank you for an amazing Season 2! We will see you for Season 3 starting Sept 2nd with episodes launching everything Thursday throughout the dance season! Until then, keep #MakingTheImpact

Join your hosts Courtney Ortiz & Lesley Mealor at the Capezio Flagship Store in the heart of New York City for a LIVE podcast recording of Making the Impact!  PLUS - a bonus master class with Courtney, lunch at Capezio, swag bag freebies, dance wear discounts & more!

Saturday, March 30th, 2024 - RSVP and register for class now! 

Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor

In Episode 65 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, we hear from over 20 IDA judges about the most common corrections judges give at competition - just in time for nationals! 

Topics Include:

• Movement quality
• Technique
• Presentation
• Pirouettes + so much more!

Follow your Hosts and IDA!

• Courtney - @courtney.ortiz
• Lesley - @lesley.mealor
• Impact Dance Adjudicators @impactdanceadjudicators

This episode is sponsored by:

Dance Xchange App
Dance Xchange is a resale app designed for Dancers by dancers! Buy and sell pre-owned dancewear, costumes, shoes, and gear! Download the app in the Apple app store now!


Join our NEW Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community 

Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you!

Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! 

For a list of IDA affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at www.impactdanceadjudicators.com

Join your hosts Courtney Ortiz & Lesley Mealor at the Capezio Flagship Store in the heart of New York City for a LIVE podcast recording of Making the Impact!  PLUS - a bonus master class with Courtney, lunch at Capezio, swag bag freebies, dance wear discounts & more!

Saturday, March 30th, 2024 - RSVP and register for class now!