dance competition

#southasianmenpodcast #mensgroups #podcast 

Episode  10

Jahee- https://www.instagram.com/jaheemani/
Changa- https://www.instagram.com/changaitachi/

The podcast is inspired by the many Men’s groups I have attended, especially the 'MenSpeak Men’s Groups'.

This podcast was created to build an open space for South Asian Men to open up and connect with each other and discuss topics, thoughts, and emotions with no judgment. Furthermore, the podcast is a space for men to be heard and seen, open men’s minds, and open a healthy conversation.

The key values of this podcast are:

- Connection

- Growth

- Vulnerability

- Authenticity

- Self- Expression

The following is adapted from Kenny’s MenSpeak Men’s Group ground rules- this is not a podcast for or against men or women, not a religious group, not a political group, not a group of anything apart from whatever the men present make it.

Guests - Justin Streeter, Angelina and Karlo Familara

Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor

In Episode 177 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, we are joined by Justin Streeter, and Angelina and Karlo Familara, all educators of street styles and hip hop, to discuss their points of view when it comes to the hip hop category at competition.

Topics Include:

•  Why foundations and fundamentals matter in hip hop and street styles just as much as in ballet
•  What they are looking for in hip hop choreography at competition
•  Advice for studio owners looking for quality hip hop teachers

Help support our podcast. Join Making The Impact's Platinum Premium Subscription today! Your membership includes:

• Monthly Q&A episodes released to members-only
• Priority to have your questions answered each month on the live Q&A.
• Ad-free listening for all of Season 4 & 5. No sponsored ads!
• 20% off all IDA Merchandise
• Exclusive bonus content released throughout the year
• Discounted IDA Online Critique
• Group Zoom check-ins 3x per season with Courtney Ortiz!

Your support helps us produce future episodes of Making The Impact for years to come!

Making The Impact's Platinum Premium - Sign up now for only $5/month!

Follow your Hosts & Guests!

• Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz
• Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance
• Justin Streeter - @s.t.r.e.e.t.e.r.j
• Angelina Familara - @angelinafamilara
• Karlo Familara - @karlofamilara, 
• @kachoreography

This episode is sponsored by:

Francisco Gella Dance Works - Season 5 Premier Sponsor!
Educational and developmental programs, intensives, and seminars designed to empower students, parents, educators, and artists.
Register now for an upcoming intensive, workshop or seminar!

Check out our service: IDA Online Judge's Critiques
Send us a video of your dance, and an IDA Judge will critique your routine. You can request a genre-specific specialty judge or add our additional feedback to take your performance to the next level.
Click here to submit your video now!

Check out our IDA Affiliated Competition and Sponsor: Axis Dance Competition!
Visit their website to view their 2024 Tour Dates! 

Join our FREE 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

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 - Kate Biernat and Krysten Danielle

Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor

In Episode 176 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, we focus on the tiniest dancers who defy all expectations, only to burn out at a young age. IDA judge Kate Biernat and dance educator Krysten Danielle give their unique perspectives and advice for the youngest of dancers. 

Topics Include:

•  Typical weekly schedule for high-achieving minis 
•  What happens when minis have to dance with an older age group due to their abilities
•  How to avoid the burnout that comes with over-training at a young age

Help support our podcast. Join Making The Impact's Platinum Premium Subscription today! Your membership includes:

• Monthly Q&A episodes released to members-only
• Priority to have your questions answered each month on the live Q&A.
• Ad-free listening for all of Season 4 & 5. No sponsored ads!
• 20% off all IDA Merchandise
• Exclusive bonus content released throughout the year
• Discounted IDA Online Critique
• Group Zoom check-ins 3x per season with Courtney Ortiz!

Your support helps us produce future episodes of Making The Impact for years to come!

Making The Impact's Platinum Premium - Sign up now for only $5/month!

Follow your Hosts & Guests!

• Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz
• Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance
• Kate Biernat - @kateemily5
• Krysten Danielle - @mskrystendance

Join us for a LIVE Podcast Recording at the Capezio Flagship Store in New York City - Saturday, March 30th, 2024! Swag bags, exclusive merchandise, discounts, freebies, donation jazz class with Courtney and so much more! Mark your calendars! 
Learn more and RSVP now on our website!

This episode is sponsored by:

Francisco Gella Dance Works - Season 5 Premier Sponsor!
Educational and developmental programs, intensives, and seminars designed to empower students, parents, educators, and artists.
Register now for an upcoming intensive, workshop or seminar!

Relative Motion - Injury Prevention apparel, teacher trainings, and in-studio workshops to transform your technique while preventing injuries.
Receive 10 % off any apparel/program purchase or $500 off workshop pricing with the code: IMPACT10
Click here to register for their Total Technique Teacher Training Academy!

Check out IDA-Affiliated Competition Gems Dance Competition!
View their 2024 tour dates and register now at www.dancegems.com

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

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 - Drew Burgess and Lisa Curatolo Turpin

Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor

In Episode 175 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, pirouettes are the name of the game! We hear from Lisa Curatolo Turpin, director of Expressenz Dance Center in Indianapolis, Indiana, and Drew Burgess, IDA judge and dance educator, about their thoughts on what makes the perfect recipe for successful pirouettes!

Topics Include:

•  How to set yourself (and your students) up for success when teaching pirouettes
•  Opinions on the best prep position for certain turns
•  The importance of knowing your audience when choreographing turns

Help support our podcast. Join Making The Impact's Platinum Premium Subscription today! Your membership includes:

• Monthly Q&A episodes released to members-only
• Priority to have your questions answered each month on the live Q&A.
• Ad-free listening for all of Season 4 & 5. No sponsored ads!
• 20% off all IDA Merchandise
• Exclusive bonus content released throughout the year
• Discounted IDA Online Critique
• Group Zoom check-ins 3x per season with Courtney Ortiz!

Your support helps us produce future episodes of Making The Impact for years to come!

Making The Impact's Platinum Premium - Sign up now for only $5/month!

Follow your Hosts & Guests!

• Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz
• Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance
• Lisa Curatolo Turpin - @lisacuratoloturpin
• Expressenz Dance Center - @expressenz
• Drew Burgess - @drewdances

Check out our guest’s current projects! 

Join Expressenz for a summer technique intensive focusing on turns!
July 19-21 in Indianapolis -  Register here! 

This episode is sponsored by:

Francisco Gella Dance Works - Season 5 Premier Sponsor!
Educational and developmental programs, intensives, and seminars designed to empower students, parents, educators, and artists.
Register now for an upcoming intensive, workshop or seminar!


Check out our IDA Affiliated Competition and Sponsor: Just Dance Invitational

Join our FREE 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 IDA Affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at

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 - Rachel Edelbrock and Dana Thompson

Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor

In Episode 174 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, we are joined by homeschooling dance mom @dancemomdana Dana Thompson and studio director Rachel Edelbrock to give some enlightening insight into the world of homeschooled dancers. 

Topics Include:

•  The types of homeschooling options that exist for dancers
•  Tips for studio owners who are interested in offering programming for homeschooled dancers
•  Do homeschooled dancers succeed in dance at a higher rate than their public or private schooled peers?
• Ways to determine if homeschooling is right for your dancer

Help support our podcast. Join Making The Impact's Platinum Premium Subscription today! Your membership includes:

• Monthly Q&A episodes released to members-only
• Priority to have your questions answered each month on the live Q&A.
• Ad-free listening for all of Season 4 & 5. No sponsored ads!
• 20% off all IDA Merchandise
• Exclusive bonus content released throughout the year
• Discounted IDA Online Critique
• Group Zoom check-ins 3x per season with Courtney Ortiz!

Your support helps us produce future episodes of Making The Impact for years to come!

Making The Impact's Platinum Premium - Sign up now for only $5/month!

Follow your Hosts & Guests!

• Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz
• Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance
• Rachel Edelbrock - @rachelmichelledance
• Dana Thompson - @dancemomdana

This episode is sponsored by:

Francisco Gella Dance Works- Season 5 Premier Sponsor!
Educational and developmental programs, intensives, and seminars designed to empower students, parents, educators, and artists.
Register now for an upcoming intensive, workshop or seminar!

Apolla Performance
The benefit of a shoe + the comfort of a sock. Try Apolla Shocks and use code IMPACT10 for 10% off at checkout!

Check out IDA Affiliated Competition Dive Dance Competition!

Join our FREE 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 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! 

Guests - Jordan Keyon Moncrief and Ashley Peter

Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor

In Episode 173  of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, we are focusing on the show that goes on backstage at a dance competition! Former backstage manager and event director Jordan Keyon Smith and former competition director and IDA judge Ashley Peter join us to give us all the details about what you should know before you head backstage at competition this season!

Topics Include:

•  How early you should arrive backstage before your routine
•  Backstage etiquette and behavior expectations
•  Things you should absolutely tell your backstage manager before you hit the stage

Help support our podcast. Join Making The Impact's Platinum Premium Subscription today! Your membership includes:

• Monthly Q&A episodes released to members-only
• Priority to have your questions answered each month on the live Q&A.
• Ad-free listening for all of Season 4 & 5. No sponsored ads!
• 20% off all IDA Merchandise
• Exclusive bonus content released throughout the year
• Discounted IDA Online Critique
• Group Zoom check-ins 3x per season with Courtney Ortiz!

Your support helps us produce future episodes of Making The Impact for years to come!

Making The Impact's Platinum Premium - Sign up now for only $5/month!

Follow your Hosts & Guests!

• Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz
• Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance
• Jordan Keyon Moncrief - @jordankeyon
• Ashley Peter - @ashleypeternyc

This episode is sponsored by:

Francisco Gella Dance Works - Season 5 Premier Sponsor!
Educational and developmental programs, intensives, and seminars designed to empower students, parents, educators, and artists.
Register now for an upcoming intensive, workshop or seminar!


Check out our IDA Affiliated Competition and Sponsor: Axis Dance Competition! Visit their website to view their 2024 Tour Dates! 

Join our FREE 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 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! 

Guests - Kimberly Soel and Kevin Grant

Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor

In Episode 172 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, dance educators and IDA judges Kimberly Soel and Kevin Grant join us for a discussion about dance parents - specifically, the ones who seem to live vicariously through their dancer. 

Topics Include:

•  Discussions of the possible causes of overzealous parents
•  Repercussions in the classroom for students who are being pushed to be in class by parents
• Advice for dance parents who want to understand how to stay supportive of their dancer but not become overbearing

Help support our podcast. Join Making The Impact's Platinum Premium Subscription today! Your membership includes:

• Monthly Q&A episodes released to members-only
• Priority to have your questions answered each month on the live Q&A.
• Ad-free listening for all of Season 4 & 5. No sponsored ads!
• 20% off all IDA Merchandise
• Exclusive bonus content released throughout the year
• Discounted IDA Online Critique
• Group Zoom check-ins 3x per season with Courtney Ortiz!

Your support helps us produce future episodes of Making The Impact for years to come!

Making The Impact's Platinum Premium - Sign up now for only $5/month!

Follow your Hosts & Guests!

• Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz
• Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance
• Kimberly Soel - @kimba2484
• Kevin Grant - @Kgrant623 & @Granttrainingprogram

This episode is sponsored by:

Francisco Gella Dance Works - Season 5 Premier Sponsor!
Educational and developmental programs, intensives, and seminars designed to empower students, parents, educators, and artists.
Register now for an upcoming intensive, workshop or seminar!

Apolla Performance
The benefit of a shoe + the comfort of a sock. Try Apolla Shocks and use code IMPACT10 for 10% off at checkout!

Check out IDA Affiliated Competition Gems Dance Competition!
View their 2024 tour dates and register now!

Join our FREE 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 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! 

Guests - James Murphy and Maria Pomerleau

Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor

In Episode 171 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, we go deep into one of the most confusing parts of the competitive dance world - awards ceremonies! IDA judge and dance educator Maria Pomerleau and Star Talent Productions host and emcee James Murphy join us for this informative discussion!

Topics Include:

•  Types of awards and what they mean
•  How levels affect how many 1st places exist at any given competition
• Awards ceremony etiquette

Help support our podcast. Join Making The Impact's Platinum Premium Subscription today! Your membership includes:

• Monthly Q&A episodes released to members only
• Priority to have your questions answered each month on the live Q&A.
• Ad-free listening for all of Seasons 4 & 5. No sponsored ads!
• 20% off all IDA Merchandise
• Exclusive bonus content released throughout the year
• Discounted IDA Online Critique
• Group Zoom check-ins 3x per season with Courtney Ortiz!

Your support helps us produce future episodes of Making The Impact for years to come!

Making The Impact's Platinum Premium - Sign up now for only $5/month!

Follow your Hosts & Guests!

• Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz
• Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance
• James Murphy - @xtremedanceur
• Maria Pomerleau - @mariapomerleau

This episode is sponsored by:

Francisco Gella Dance Works - Season 5 Premier Sponsor!
Educational and developmental programs, intensives, and seminars designed to empower students, parents, educators, and artists.
Register now for an upcoming intensive, workshop or seminar!


Check out IDA Affiliated Competition Dive Dance Competition!

Join our FREE 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 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! 

Are you a teacher or aspiring competition adjudicator looking to enhance your AcroDance expertise? Look no further! In this episode Acrobatic Arts company Principal Sandra Elliott takes you through the details of the Adjudicator Certification for AcroDance, an online study-at-your-own-pace program designed just for you. Certify yourself before your next adjudication contract and set yourself apart in the world of AcroDance! Listen NOW!

Need some visuals? Check out Sandra's Weekly Mini presentation on YouTube!

About Sandra Elliott

With over 30 years teaching experience, Sandra has also been enjoying her role as a course conductor and examiner with Acrobatic Arts since its inception in 2012. She assisted in developing the Module 1 Teacher's Certification Course. In addition, she developed the Graduate Student Teacher's Certification course, the Adjudicator Certification for AcroDancecourse and the Pin Examiner Certification course.

Sandra is a registered teacher with the Royal Academy of Dance and has her Bachelor of Education Degree, with a major in dance. Throughout her teaching career, she has successfully prepared students for all levels of RAD exams. One of her students achieved her Royal Academy of Dance Solo Seal while another student participated in the RAD's Margot Fonteyn International Ballet Competition (formerly ‘The Genee') who later became a member of the Citie Ballet Company and is currently a member of Ballet Kelowna. Sandra has also been closely involved in the training of many students who have gone on to dance in professional shows including The Music Man (Broadway), Radio City Music Hall Rockettes, Movin' Out (Canadian Tour), Cirque Du Soleil (Las Vegas), So You Think You Can Dance Canada, Celine Dion and Taylor Swift. One of those students was the 2013 winner of UK's Got To Dance and a competitor in World of Dance Season 2. He is currently running his own contemporary company ‘Untitled' out of the UK.

Sandra's choreography has won many overall, title and choreography awards. She is passionate about not only developing artistic dancers that have excellent technique but she also loves helping dancers to understand how the things they learn in dance can translate into their personal lives helping them to push themselves to be the best they can be.

If you'd like more amazing content more tips and ideas check out our Acrobatic Arts Channel on YouTube. Subscribe Now!

Connect with Acrobatic Arts on your favourite social media platform:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acrobaticarts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Acroarts

Twitter: https://twitter.com/acrobatic_arts/

Learn more and register for our programs at AcrobaticArts.com

Guests - Jessica Olinik and Amy Tully

Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor

In Episode 169 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, we are joined by two IDA judges who also wear other hats in the dance world to chat about what goes on during a day of dance competition, from dance parent to dance studio owner to dance judge!

Topics Include:

•  Advice for dance parents approaching their first competition season
•  The ins and outs of the duties of a dance teacher or studio owner during the competition weekend
•  The process of preparing for a long event as a dance competition judge

Help support our podcast. Join Making The Impact's Platinum Premium Subscription today! Your membership includes:

• Monthly Q&A episodes released to members only
• Priority to have your questions answered each month on the live Q&A.
• Ad-free listening for all of Season 4 & 5. No sponsored ads!
• 20% off all IDA Merchandise
• Exclusive bonus content released throughout the year
• Discounted IDA Online Critique
• Group Zoom check-ins 3x per season with Courtney Ortiz!

Your support helps us produce future episodes of Making The Impact for years to come!

Making The Impact's Platinum Premium - Sign up now for only $5/month!

Follow your Hosts & Guests!

• Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz
• Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance
• Jessica Olinik - @jwodance
• Amy Tully - @amyttully

This episode is sponsored by:

Francisco Gella Dance Works - Season 5 Premier Sponsor!
Educational and developmental programs, intensives, and seminars designed to empower students, parents, educators, and artists.
Register now for an upcoming intensive, workshop or seminar!


Apolla Performance 
The benefit of a shoe + the comfort of a sock. Try Apolla Shocks and use code IMPACT10 for 10% off at checkout!


Check out our IDA Affiliated Competition and Sponsor: Just Dance Invitational

Join our FREE 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 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! 

Guests - IDA Judges and Podcast Fans!

Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor

In Episode 166 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, we hear from YOU, our listeners, as well as special guest IDA judges about the ridiculous expectations of the competitive dance world! 

Topics Include:

•  The tiny costumes
•  Full makeup on 5 years olds
•  The time and money invested in dance competitions

Help support our podcast. Join Making The Impact's Platinum Premium Subscription today! Your membership includes:

• Monthly Q&A episodes released to members only
• Priority to have your questions answered each month on the live Q&A.
• Ad-free listening for all of Seasons 4 & 5. No sponsored ads!
• 20% off all IDA Merchandise
• Exclusive bonus content released throughout the year
• Discounted IDA Online Critique
• Group Zoom check-ins 3x per season with Courtney Ortiz!

Your support helps us produce future episodes of Making The Impact for years to come!

Making The Impact's Platinum Premium - Sign up now for only $5/month!

Follow your Hosts!

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

This episode is sponsored by:

Francisco Gella Dance Works - Season 5 Premier Sponsor!
Educational and developmental programs, intensives, and seminars designed to empower students, parents, educators, and artists.
Register now for an upcoming intensive, workshop or seminar!


Apolla Performance
The benefit of a shoe + the comfort of a sock. Try Apolla Shocks and use code IMPACT10 for 10% off at checkout!


Relative Motion - Injury Prevention apparel, teacher trainings, and in-studio workshops to transform your technique while preventing injuries.
Receive 10 % off any apparel/program purchase or $500 off workshop pricing with the code: IMPACT10
Click here to register for their Total Technique Teacher Training Academy!


Check out our IDA Affiliated Competition: Axis Dance Competition!
Visit their website to view their 2024 Tour D

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 - Chase Haley Bowden and Julie Swartz

Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor

In Episode 165 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, duo/trios take over! The dance competition world can feel solo-heavy sometimes, so we are focusing on the small but mighty duo/trio category with guests Chase Haley Bowden and Julie Swartz.

Topics Include:

•  Best practices for casting duo/trios at the studio
•  What judges wish they would see more of in a duo/trio routine
•  Benefits of duo/trio routines for dancers' growth 

Help support our podcast. Join Making The Impact's Platinum Premium Subscription today! Your membership includes:

• Monthly Q&A episodes released to members only
• Priority to have your questions answered each month on the live Q&A.
• Ad-free listening for all of Season 4 & 5. No sponsored ads!
• 20% off all IDA Merchandise
• Exclusive bonus content released throughout the year
• Discounted IDA Online Critique
• Group Zoom check-ins 3x per season with Courtney Ortiz!

Your support helps us produce future episodes of Making The Impact for years to come!

Making The Impact's Platinum Premium - Sign up now for only $5/month!

Follow your Hosts & Guests!

• Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz
• Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance
• Chase Haley Bowden - @chasehaleybowden
• Julie Swartz - @julieswartz86

This episode is sponsored by:

Francisco Gella Dance Works - Season 5 Premier Sponsor!
Educational and developmental programs, intensives, and seminars designed to empower students, parents, educators, and artists.
Register now for an upcoming intensive, workshop or seminar!

Check out IDA Affiliated Competition Star Talent Productions!

Join our FREE 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 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! 

Guests - Jamie Harris and Rebecca Tyler

Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor

In Episode 164 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, dance educator Jamie Harris and studio owner Rebecca Tyler join us for an informative discussion on the best continuing education opportunities for dance teachers!

Topics Include:

•  Favorite programs and courses
•  Benefits of continuing education
•  Suggestions for low cost or free continuing ed opportunities

Help support our podcast. Join Making The Impact's Platinum Premium Subscription today! Your membership includes:

• Monthly Q&A episodes released to members only
• Priority to have your questions answered each month on the live Q&A.
• Ad-free listening for all of Season 4 & 5. No sponsored ads!
• 20% off all IDA Merchandise
• Exclusive bonus content released throughout the year
• Discounted IDA Online Critique
• Group Zoom check-ins 3x per season with Courtney Ortiz!

Your support helps us produce future episodes of Making The Impact for years to come!

Making The Impact's Platinum Premium - Sign up now for only $5/month!

Follow your Hosts & Guests!

• Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz
• Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance
• Jamie Harris - @msjamiedance
• Rebecca Tyler - @limitlesspac, @beckysadventures

This episode is sponsored by:

Francisco Gella Dance Works - Season 5 Premier Sponsor!
Educational and developmental programs, intensives, and seminars designed to empower students, parents, educators, and artists.
Register now for an upcoming intensive, workshop or seminar!

Relative Motion - Injury Prevention apparel, teacher trainings, and in-studio workshops to transform your technique while preventing injuries.
Receive 10 % off any apparel/program purchase or $500 off workshop pricing with the code: IMPACT10
Click here to register for their Total Technique Teacher Training Academy!


Check out our IDA Affiliated Competition and Sponsor: Just Dance Invitational 

Join our FREE 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 IDA Affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at

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! 

- Encore Dance Competition- https://www.instagram.com/encore.dancecomp/
- Aaron- https://www.instagram.com/aaronn.edc/
- Sid- https://www.instagram.com/mohamedsiddhique/

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The podcast is inspired by the many Men’s groups I have attended, especially the 'MenSpeak Men’s Groups'.

This podcast was created to build an open space for South Asian Men to open up and connect with each other and discuss topics, thoughts, and emotions with no judgment. Furthermore, the podcast is a space for men to be heard and seen, open men’s minds, and open a healthy conversation.

The key values of this podcast are:
-Connection
-Growth
-Vulnerability
-Authenticity
-Self- Expression

The following is adapted from MenSpeak Men’s Group ground rules -  this is not a podcast for or against men or women, not a religious group, not a political group, not a group of anything apart from whatever the men present make it. 

Guests - Amanda Carter and Sarah Matteson

Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor

In Episode 163 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, studio owner Amanda Carter and dance educator, adjudicator, and dance mom Sarah Matteson join us to discuss the pros, cons, and everything in between when it comes to dance competitions and dance conventions!

Topics Include:

• Descriptions of what makes competitions and conventions different from each other
• Reasons why some studios choose conventions over competitions and vice versa
• The benefits of taking dancers to both kinds of events

Help support our podcast! Join Making The Impact's Platinum Premium Subscription today! Your membership includes:

• Monthly Q&A episodes released to members-only
• Priority to have your questions answered each month on the live Q&A.
• Ad-free listening for all of Season 4 & 5. No sponsored ads!
• 20% off all IDA Merchandise
• Exclusive bonus content released throughout the year
• Discounted IDA Online Critique
• Group Zoom check-ins 3x per season with Courtney Ortiz!

Your support helps us produce future episodes of Making The Impact for years to come!

Making The Impact's Platinum Premium - Sign up now for only $5/month!

Follow your Hosts & Guests!

• Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz
• Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance
• Amanda Carter - @Amandarcarter 
• Sarah Matteson - @Sarah_m9642

Check out our guest’s current projects!
 
In the NC area in January 2024? Join No Limits Dance Company's winter intensive, open to all dancers! Registration opens December 1!
www.nolimitsdancecompany.com 

This episode is sponsored by:

Francisco Gella Dance Works - Season 5 Premier Sponsor!
Educational and developmental programs, intensives, and seminars designed to empower students, parents, educators, and artists.
Register now for an upcoming intensive, workshop or seminar!


Check out IDA Affiliated Competition Gems Dance Competition!
View their 2024 tour dates and register now at www.dancegems.com

Join our FREE 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 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! 

Guests - Ashley Marinelli and Kalie-Ann Nassoura

Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor

Happy Thanksgiving! In Episode 162 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, we tackle a topic that has been requested for years - pay rates in the professional dance world! From gigs to long contracts, commercial work to Broadway, professional dancers Ashley Marinelli and Kalie-Ann Nassoura give you the details on how much you can make as a dancer!

Topics Include:

•  A brief overview of union vs non-union as it applies to pay scale
•  Typical pay rates for common jobs in the dance industry
•  Advice about how to choose what jobs to take and not to take when the pay may not be ideal

Help support our podcast. Join Making The Impact's Platinum Premium Subscription today! Your membership includes:

• Monthly Q&A episodes released to members-only
• Priority to have your questions answered each month on the live Q&A.
• Ad-free listening for all of Season 4 & 5. No sponsored ads!
• 20% off all IDA Merchandise
• Exclusive bonus content released throughout the year
• Discounted IDA Online Critique
• Group Zoom check-ins 3x per season with Courtney Ortiz!

Your support helps us produce future episodes of Making The Impact for years to come!

Making The Impact's Platinum Premium - Sign up now for only $5/month!

Follow your Hosts & Guests!

• Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz
• Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance
• Ashley Marinelli - @alm433
• Kalie-Ann Nassoura - @_KalieAnn_

This episode is sponsored by:

Francisco Gella Dance Works - Season 5 Premier Sponsor!
Educational and developmental programs, intensives, and seminars designed to empower students, parents, educators, and artists.
Register now for an upcoming intensive, workshop or seminar!

Check out our service: IDA Online Judge's Critiques
Send us a video of your dance, and an IDA Judge will critique your routine within 72 hours. You can request a genre-specific specialty judge or add on our additional feedback to take your performance to the next level.
Click here to submit your video now!

Check out IDA Affiliated Competition Star Talent Productions!
View their 2024 season tour dates and register now at www.startalentproductions.com
 

Join our FREE 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

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! 

Guest: Nicole Wells

Hosted by Courtney Ortiz & Lesley Mealor

Our first international studio spotlight features Dance Force Australia, owned and directed by Nicole Wells! Dance Force's programming includes several unique offerings for students who want to train at a pre-professional level, as well as a full recreational program for those who just want to have fun!

Follow Dance Force Australia on social media @danceforce  and be sure to check out their upcoming projects!

Help support our podcast. Join Making The Impact's Platinum Premium Subscription today! Your membership includes:

• Monthly Q&A episodes released to members-only
• Priority to have your questions answered each month on the live Q&A.
• Ad-free listening for all of Season 4 & 5. No sponsored ads!
• 20% off all IDA Merchandise
• Exclusive bonus content released throughout the year
• Discounted IDA Online Critique
• Group Zoom check-ins 3x per season with Courtney Ortiz!

Your support helps us produce future episodes of Making The Impact for years to come!

Making The Impact's Platinum Premium - Sign up now for only $5/month!

This episode is sponsored by:

Francisco Gella Dance Works - Season 5 Premier Sponsor!
Educational and developmental programs, intensives, and seminars designed to empower students, parents, educators, and artists.
Register now for an upcoming intensive, workshop or seminar!

Check out our service: IDA Online Judge's Critiques
Send us a video of your dance, and an IDA Judge will critique your routine within 5 business days. You can request a genre-specific specialty judge or add on our additional feedback to take your performance to the next level.
Click here to submit your video now!

Check out IDA Affiliated Competition Diva Dance Competition!
America's Live Judging Competition! Head to their website to view their upcoming tour dates at www.divacomps.com 

Follow your Hosts & Guests!

• Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz
• Lesley Mealor  - @miss.lesley.dance
• Dance Force Australia - @danceforce 

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 us on social media at @impactdanceadjudicators and 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! 

From Spray Tan Mishaps to Self-Discovery: Lessons on Life's Stage.
Ever had the feeling of stepping onto the stage in autopilot mode, engulfed in self-doubt and comparison? Join me, your host Jana, as I share my nerve-wracking yet exhilarating journey through the National Dance Competition. I'll walk you through the culture shocks, beauty preparations, and the panic moments, like that spontaneous spray tan removal! Amidst all these, I’ll reveal how I overcame my fears and insecurities and learned to see other dancers as inspiration, not competition. This journey was not just about the dance, but also about self-discovery and personal growth.

But don't worry, our co-host Jason has not been forgotten. Despite being on the road, traveling to Dallas, Austin, and back, Jason will be dialing in to keep our conversations about life and self-improvement alive. We will give you an insider's view of long-distance podcasting, the highs and lows, and the lessons we've learned along the way. Together, we'll continue to navigate life's challenges, share behind-the-scenes stories, and inspire each other to create the lives we desire. So, tune in as we dance our way through life's stage!

In our next episode, Co-host Jason, despite being on the road, dials in to keep the conversation about life and self-improvement vibrant. Together, they navigate the highs and lows of long-distance podcasting and life's challenges. Tune in to explore how transforming comparison into inspiration and facing fears can lead to an extraordinary life. Whether you're a dance enthusiast or seeking motivation, this episode is a testament to embracing authenticity and pursuing personal growth. Dive into "Living Lucky" for a humanistic and inspiring narrative that resonates with everyone striving to create a life they crave. 🌟💃

The Dance: https://www.youtube.com/live/9jPBOGkKuT4?si=c_mjY2ji6PEhn9oN&t=3038

🎙️#LivingLucky #DanceCompetition #SelfImprovement  #Podcast #SelfDiscovery #PersonalGrowth #SelfImprovement #Inspiration #Authenticity #LifeChallenges #Motivation #OvercomingFears #NationalDance #LivingLuckyPodcast #EmotionalResilience #LifeLessons #MindsetShift #ConfidenceBuilding #SelfDoubt #Comparison #InspirationalStories #PodcastingExperience #JanaShelfer #JasonShelfer

Thanks for joining us.
CONNECT with us in our PRIVATE COMMUNITY

*** The Living Lucky Community is experiencing what it feels like to create a life of inspiration where dreams come true. Check it out HERE *** or at https://www.startlivinglucky.com/sendusyourdreams

!!! SEND US A MESSAGE: Are you ready to unlock your path to a more inspired life where you're Living Lucky®? Email me directly and let's chart your course toward realizing your dreams and creating a life that fills you with daily inspiration.
Email Jason Shelfer HERE

The 4 pillars of Living Lucky
Believe in yourself
Believe in the people around you
Believe in your circumstances and
Believe that God is working through you, for you, and always conspiring in your favor.

*Previously Recorded

Guests - Amy Gibson and Morriss Partee

Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor

In Episode 153 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, we are joined by IDA judge and dance educator Amy Gibson, and Morriss Partee, owner of Squirrel Trench Audio, to give you the scoop on why you need to edit your music for  the competitive dance stage!

Topics Include:

•  Tips and tricks to get the best edits possible
•  Common music editing mistakes and how to fix them
•  Why viewing your dance with a cinematic perspective can help you make better music editing choices

Help support our podcast. Join Making The Impact's Platinum Premium Subscription today! Your membership includes:

• Monthly Q&A episodes released to members only
• Priority to have your questions answered each month on the live Q&A.
• Ad-free listening for all of Season 4. No sponsored ads!
• 20% off all IDA Merchandise
• Exclusive bonus content released throughout the year

Your support helps us produce future episodes of Making The Impact for years to come!

Making The Impact's Platinum Premium - Sign up now for only $5/month!

Follow your Hosts & Guests!

• Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz
• Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance
• Amy Gibson - @mazeamy
• Morriss Partee - @squirreltrenchaudio

Check out our guest’s services! 

Squirrel Trench Audio - view their huge catalog of performance-ready music! And if you're looking for recital welcome music, they have you covered - Magical Recital Welcome Soundtrack

This episode is sponsored by:

YoungArts
Register now for their 2024 National Arts Competition to win scholarships, mentorship, and a trip to YoungArts Week in Miami! Deadline to submit is by October 13th, 2023. 

Check out our IDA Affiliated Competition and Sponsor:
Axis Dance Competition . Visit their website to view their 2024 Tour Dates! 

Join our FREE 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 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! 

Guest: Mary Giattino

Hosted by: Courtney Ortiz & Lesley Mealor

Studio Spotlight episodes continue into Season 5 of Making the Impact with Stage Door School of Dance in Long Island, NY. Owner Mary Giattino joins us to give insight into how she successfully took over the family business and continues to train not only excellent dancers but also excellent people. Stage Door School of Dance is the very first recipient of our Making the Impact Award to receive a full studio spotlight feature on our podcast after winning our fan favorite Instagram contest this summer! 

Follow Stage Door School of Dance on social media @StageDoorDancer and be sure to check out their upcoming projects!

Who would you like to see featured on our upcoming Spotlight Interviews? Share your recommendations by shooting us an email at podcast@impactdanceadjudicators.com.

Help support our podcast. Join Making The Impact's Platinum Premium Subscription today! Your membership includes:

• Monthly Q&A episodes released to members only
• Priority to have your questions answered each month on the live Q&A.
• Ad-free listening for all of Season 4. No sponsored ads!
• 20% off all IDA Merchandise
• Exclusive bonus content released throughout the year

Your support helps us produce future episodes of Making The Impact for years to come!

Making The Impact's Platinum Premium - Sign up now for only $5/month!

This episode is sponsored by:

YoungArts
Applications are open for the 2024 National YoungArts Competition, available for artists ages 15-18 or in grades 10-12. Deadline to apply is October 13th, 2023.

Check out our IDA Affiliated Competition - High Demand Dance Competition
Visit their website to view 2024 Season Tour Dates!

Follow your Hosts & Guests!

• Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz
• Lesley Mealor  - @miss.lesley.dance
• Stage Door School of Dance - @StageDoorDancer

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 us on social media at @impactdanceadjudicators and 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!