In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts

In this episode, Robin sits down with arts entrepreneur, author, and motivational speaker Chasta Hamilton, founder and CEO of Stage Door Dance Productions, and founder of the nonprofit Girls Geared for Greatness. Chasta shares how the performing arts became a stabilizing force after she lost both parents as a child, and how that experience shaped her mission to build dancers who are not only technically strong, but confident, resilient, and prepared to lead. Robin and Chasta dig into big industry questions, including: Why Chasta wrote Trash the Trophies and what competition culture can get wrong How studio owners and parents can rethink “success” in dance Building leadership programs for teens and creating stronger studio communities What parents should know about private equity and growing consolidation in the dance world This is a conversation about values, courage, and the kind of training that prepares young performers for the stage and for life. About Chasta: Orphaned as a child, Chasta found comfort in the creativity, play, and catharsis of the performing arts. This led to a life as an arts entrepreneur where she believes that everyone has the power to reach their fullest potential and disrupt the status quo in an empowering and inspiring way. She does this through her entrepreneurial endeavors, writing, corporate consulting and motivational speaking. This niche in change management developed through various personal and professional challenges that forced her to find optimism in her quest for success, happiness, and impact. A true Renaissance woman, thought leader, and disruptor, Chasta is the Founder and CEO of Stage Door Dance Productions and Founder and President of the non-profit Girls Geared For Greatness. She’s also a best-selling author (Trash The Trophies and Handle the Horrible as well as the children’s book The Trophy Trap) and speaker (TEDx: You Weren’t Built to Break). Chasta lives in Raleigh with her husband, John, their son, Bash, and their Scottish Terrier, Elvis. For more information, visitwww.chastahamilton.com. I deeply believe in helping others reach their fullest potential- in dance, and in life, on stage and off stage. I also know that movement has the power to push humanity forward in impactful and meaningful ways. I also love ideas, innovations, and activating conversations that provoke curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. I'm the Founder/ Owner/ CEO of Stage Door Dance Productions in Raleigh, NC, a speaker (TEDx, Fortune 500 Companies), author (Trash the Trophies, Handle the Horrible, The Trophy Trap), and thought leader. I'm also the Founder/ President of the nonprofit Girls Geared For Greatness, which is currently shifting to a think tank model. I live in Raleigh, NC with my husband, John, my 4-year old son, Bash, and our dog, Elvis. When I'm not dancing, I'm traveling, having conversations, watching a show, or creating new projects. Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

Join us this week for our Inside EMC segment where we dive into part two of this two part Summer Guide: Mini Dance Intensive and how our Rising Leaders help facilitate the week, implementing what they’ve learned under supervision Imagine That! Camps Dance Intensive and how they week breaks up with technique and rehearsals Nutcracker Camp and the preparation throughout the whole week for main lead audition roles Dream Team Training Retreat; what it is and what it involves Hot Shots Training Camp and how we elevate young performers Cirque Programming Private Lessons Our Annual Pool Party Preview Get Your Brick and Support the Podcast: For $10 off your brick and to give $10 to the podcast, click HERE.  Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram

What happens when a 10-year-old drummer gets invited on stage at a bustling Broadway bar in Nashville? In this heartfelt episode, Robin sits down with Urzula Lazcano to talk about her son Lucca’s unforgettable moment playing drums at JBJ’s, and how that single experience sparked a family’s leap of faith toward Music City. The conversation weaves together life in Nashville, Lucca’s musical journey from banging on drums as a baby to performing with professional bands, and the realities parents face when supporting young artists in adult spaces. Robin and Urzula explore confidence-building through the performing arts, the importance of safe supervision, and how music uniquely fosters collaboration and leadership in young people. This episode is a must-listen for parents navigating big dreams, unconventional paths, and the delicate balance between protecting their children and letting them shine. It’s a reminder that sometimes, saying “yes” to opportunity (before everything feels perfectly planned) can change everything About Urzula: As a Nashville mom, Urzula is best known in the area as Lucca’s mom her young drummer whose standout performances light up Broadway stages. From her early dreams of a career in advertising, becoming a wife, and raising a family, Urzula is truly living her dream. Her background in advertising and public relations has helped build connections in the music community, paving the way for Lucca to share his gift and grow as a leader on and off stage. She intentionally nurtures independence, grit, joy, discipline, and perseverance in her kid transforming potential into purpose without pressure because she sees perseverance as the ultimate superpower. When not celebrating Lucca’s big moments, Urzula loves unwinding at home with baking and cooking, embracing the delicious chaos of family life. Follow Lucca @‌drumsthatkill on IG Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

Join us this week for our Inside EMC segment where we dive into part one of this two part Summer Guide: Dance Technique Evening Classes Kreative Kidz and Tumblers Journey Into The Enchanted Forrest Dance Foundations Classes AcroGymnastics Classes Music Lessons and what’s available The Musical Experience and the Broadway Classics Rising Leaders Training Program Get Your Brick and Support the Podcast: For $10 off your brick and to give $10 to the podcast, click HERE.  Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram

What if dance and performing arts studios could become a direct bridge to professional opportunities without losing sight of confidence, character, and care for young artists? In this episode of In the Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts, Robin sits down with award-winning talent agent, studio owner, and founder of Studio Talent Collective, Josephine Lancuba, for a powerful conversation about talent management, access, and advocacy in the entertainment industry. Josephine shares her journey from performer to studio owner to representing over 500 young talents worldwide, and why she believes studio owners are uniquely positioned to support students beyond the classroom. Together, they explore the growing movement of in-house talent agencies and how studios can ethically and effectively prepare students for professional opportunities through self-taping skills, audition techniques, resume building, and regular headshot updates. They also dive into: Why parents often struggle to navigate auditions and industry platforms on their own How agents protect young performers from unfair contracts, scams, and predatory practices The importance of teaching students how to speak to camera and show up confidently on screen How audition experiences, booked or not, build resilience, confidence, and real-world skills Ways studios can create new revenue streams while increasing student retention and engagement At its core, this episode is about access with integrity. Josephine reminds us that talent management isn’t just about landing jobs, it’s about helping young performers grow into confident, informed, and empowered humans. Whether you’re a studio owner, educator, or parent supporting an aspiring artist, this conversation offers practical insight, inspiration, and a fresh perspective on what leadership in the performing arts can look like. About Josephine: Josephine Lancuba is an award-winning talent agent, podcast host, and the Founder of Studio Talent Collective. With a background as a performer for over 2 decades, Josephine spent years on stages and screens before moving behind the scenes. That lived experience shapes her work today as she supports talent and studios to better understand how the industry actually works, not just how it looks from the outside. Josephine now works with performing arts studio owners to build in-house talent agencies and create pathways for their students into professional work within the entertainment industry. She is the creator of Talent Manager Bootcamp, a world-first program designed to help people step into talent management with confidence, structure, and care. She also hosts the popular show, Studio Talent Collective ~ the podcast, from her home in Sydney, Australia. Josephine believes in the social, emotional and physical benefits of the performing arts. She is an advocate for creating inclusive, accessible and positive opportunities for talent and industry alike. Performing Arts Business Coach and Talent Agent Director of Studio Talent Collective Ph: 0410 621 791 hello@josephinelancuba.com SOCIALS: @‌studiotalentcollective and @‌josephinelancuba Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

This week, the conversation between Robin and Santina, touches on all things understanding the Rungs of the Ladder within EMC.  Get Your Brick and Support the Podcast: For $10 off your brick and to give $10 to the podcast, click HERE.  Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram

In this episode Robin sits down with Britt Mergler, Kreative Kidz Director at EMC Performing Arts Studio, for an in-depth conversation about Showstoppers, EMC’s youngest performing company. Together, they walk families through what Showstoppers really is: a carefully designed introduction to dance company life for young dancers, typically ages 7–10. Miss Britt explains how dancers are invited into the program (and why auditions aren’t part of the process at this age), what teachers are truly looking for in the classroom and on stage, and how performance quality, focus, kindness, teamwork, and leadership all play a role. They also break down: The structure of the Showstoppers class and how it fits alongside Dance Foundations Performance opportunities throughout the year, including Holiday Celebration, Spring Concert, Fall Tour, and more Attendance expectations and why consistency matters (with practical ways families can help dancers catch up when life happens) Summer requirements, including the Mini Intensive and why it’s such a cornerstone of the program How mentorship, community, and “big sister” relationships shape the EMC experience Perhaps most importantly, Robin and Miss Britt address what it means not to receive an invite, why “not yet” is not the end of the story, how families can seek feedback, and how perseverance, patience, and steady effort are central to a dancer’s long-term growth. Whether you’re an EMC family exploring Showstoppers for the first time or a parent at another studio curious about why performing companies are structured the way they are, this episode offers transparency, encouragement, and insight into how young dancers are supported, challenged, and prepared for what comes next, on and off the stage. Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

Join us this week for our Inside EMC segment where we chat: Our Spring Concert (Theme) Big Reveal Free Form Friday: Family Jam Night Company Field Trip, what it’s about, what styles are being learned, and who it’s for Imagine That! Mini Event, theme, and what to expect Upcoming Open Gym and bringing a friend along Get Your Brick and Support the Podcast: For $10 off your brick and to give $10 to the podcast, click HERE.  Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram

In this episode, Robin Snyder-Wiencek interviews Menina Fortunato, a seasoned dancer and entrepreneur, sharing her journey from a competitive dancer to a successful business owner in the performing arts industry. Menina discusses her background, including her early exposure to dance through her family's dance studios and her eventual move to Los Angeles to pursue a career in commercial dance. She highlights the challenges dancers face in transitioning from training to professional work and emphasizes the importance of building a strong foundation in both artistic and business skills. Menina explains her mentorship program, which offers guidance to dancers aiming for careers in various aspects of the performing arts, from commercial dance to Broadway. She also stresses the significance of networking, self-promotion, and developing a strong online presence for dancers today. The episode concludes with Menina offering advice for parents and studio owners on preparing students for potential careers in the performing arts and encouraging them to pursue their dreams with determination and a well-rounded skill set. Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

Join us this week for our Inside EMC segment where we chat: Our next Free Form Friday Event: Family Jam Night New Boys Class on Saturdays and how to join us Sparkle Days coming up in January for our Kreative Kidz classes Imagine That! Mini Event and announcing our first theme Spaghetti with Eddie and when the next cookout will be Get Your Brick and Support the Podcast: For $10 off your brick and to give $10 to the podcast, click HERE.  Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram

Robin sits down with fellow performing arts mom Kim Treloar to talk honestly about what it’s like to raise children in the spotlight. From Broadway auditions and national anthems to rejection, resilience, and redefining success, Kim shares her sons’ very different journeys through theater and music. Together, they explore the courage it takes to pursue the arts, the tight-knit community that forms among families, and the powerful realization that the skills gained through performing arts matter, even when the path takes an unexpected turn. Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

This week we reflect on the magic of The Holiday Celebration, a performance that brought our community together through music, movement, and meaning. From the dedication shown in rehearsals to the joy felt on stage, this episode is about honoring the heart behind the performance and the dancers who made it shine. As the lights come down and the season begins to slow, we take a moment to celebrate creativity, growth, and the shared experience of bringing art to life during the holidays. This episode is both a thank-you and a reflection, a reminder of why we gather, perform, and celebrate together. Get Your Brick and Support the Podcast: For $10 off your brick and to give $10 to the podcast, click HERE.  Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram

In this episode, Robin Snyder-Wiencek engages in a deep conversation with Denise Carr, a passionate dance educator and esthetician. Denise shares her journey from a young dancer to a teacher, discussing the importance of training, the challenges of transitioning from student to teacher, and the impact of different teaching methodologies. They explore the significance of college dance programs, the value of a dance degree, and the personal choices that shape a dance career. Denise also talks about her experience with the Horton technique and her journey into the esthetics field, highlighting the balance between her teaching and business endeavors. The conversation emphasizes the importance of diverse dance experiences and the role of teachers in shaping young dancers' lives. About Denise: Denise started dancing at the age of 4 and has continued to dance through high school and college. She graduated in May 2017, receiving her BFA in dance performance from Towson University. Denise trained with many different teachers and choreographers including Linda-Denise Fisher-Harrell, Runqiao Du, Vincent Thomas, and Catherine Horta-Hayden. During her time at Towson she performed with the Towson University Dance Company and performed excerpts choreographed by Runqiao Du, Darrell Moltrie, and Kim Bailey. Since graduating, she has taught at many different dance programs and studios in the Maryland and Southern PA area for over 10 years. While she loves teaching, Denise also enjoys choreographing. She has choreographed for various different productions by Harford Dance Theater and the John Carroll Ballet Academy. She has choreographed routines for different competitive studios in the Maryland area as well. Denise's passion is educating and inspiring her students and seeing them progress and grow into smart and healthy artists. While Denise is currently teaching and choreographing, she also undergoing a Ailey Horton Teaching Certification and will be graduating in May 2026 from the Ailey School in NYC. Connect with Denise on Instagram @deenise_nicole Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

Join us this week for our Inside EMC segment where we chat: Holiday Celebration and supporting your local dancers while making this show your annual family tradition Free Form Friday on December 19th and the Dancer Photo Shoot with Meghann Bulls plus free Poms classes with Alli Walker Rockstar Ballet Masterclass on Dec 29th, which will be a lovely way to get your body moving while on break, with Christian Richards Get Your Brick and Support the Podcast: For $10 off your brick and to give $10 to the podcast, click HERE.  Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram

In this conversation, Robin Snyder-Wiencek & Norma Pera, discuss the multifaceted nature of dance education, emphasizing the importance of setting students up for success, the art of teaching, and the life lessons learned through dance. They highlight the significance of performance experience, the role of structure in dance classes, and the necessity of fostering resilience and independence in students. The conversation also touches on the emotional challenges faced by teenagers and the empowering nature of dance as a form of self-expression and personal growth. About Norma: Norma Pera began teaching at the Baltimore School for the Arts (BSA) when it opened in 1979 and assumed leadership of the Dance Department in 1992 following the retirement of renowned classical dancer Sylvester Campbell. Her dance training began at the age of three in a children’s ballet class at Carnegie Hall, and continued from age seven in the studio of Martha Manners on Long Island, NY. Norma went on to perform with the ballet company at Radio City Music Hall, Rudolf Nureyev and Friends, and the Maryland Ballet. She trained extensively under Elena Tchernichova and later taught ballet classes at both Carnegie Hall and in Baltimore. Campbell, her colleague at the Maryland Ballet, recruited her to join him at the then newly established BSA. At the time, many students had no prior ballet training, and Norma embraced the challenge of designing a curriculum that taught not only ballet technique but also its history and traditions. As Dance Department Head, she expanded the curriculum to include men’s classes, pas de deux, and men’s and women’s variations classes. Under her leadership, BSA became one of the few high schools in the nation granted permission to perform works by the legendary choreographer George Balanchine. Dancers trained under Ms. Pera have gone on to perform with esteemed companies including Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Aspen Santa Fe Ballet, Béjart Ballet, Charlotte Ballet, Complexions Contemporary Ballet, Kidd Pivot, Lines Ballet, Pennsylvania Ballet, Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre, Sacramento Ballet, and the Washington Ballet. Beyond the world of dance, BSA alumni under her guidance have also found success in a wide range of fields. They have worked with organizations such as DreamWorks Animation, the Kennedy Krieger Institute, and the NYC Department of Consumer Affairs, and have become doctors, social workers, and dance studio owners, among many other professions. Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

Join us this week for our Inside EMC segment where we chat: Production Rehearsals All Things Holiday Celebration Hub Get Your Brick and Support the Podcast: For $10 off your brick and to give $10 to the podcast, click HERE.  Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram

In this engaging conversation, Robin Snyder-Wiencek speaks with Samantha Jo Harvey about her journey in the performing arts, from her early influences and training in dance to her experiences as a Rockette. They discuss the challenges and triumphs of pursuing a career in dance, the transition to coaching and entrepreneurship, and the balance of motherhood with a thriving career. Samantha emphasizes the importance of authenticity, self-acceptance, and the lessons learned along the way, inspiring future generations of dancers to follow their passions. About Samantha:  Sam is a former pro dancer + fitness expert turned podcast host, coach, and guide for ambitious women who refuse to be put in a box. She’s a multidimensional mama showing the world that you can hold it all: the baby and the business, the softness and the fire, the money and the magic. During her 10-yr Rockette career she was chosen for prestigious performance opportunities like JLO on SNL, Pitbull on America’s Got Talent, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, Wendy Williams Show, the Today Show and more. Other credits include Nike Master Trainer, Ted 2, MAC, Toyota, Beachbody’s 21 Day Fix, Denise Austin + more. After a decade kicking eye-high with the Radio City Rockettes, initiating a divorce, and building two multiple 6-figure businesses, Sam became a mindset ninja and champion of women living unapologetically full out. Her work is an invitation to every woman to stop shrinking, take up space, and write her own rules—because having it all isn’t just a dream, it’s a way of being. Sam’s clients have left jobs to travel the world, walked away from unfulfilling relationships, built empires from side hustles, and reignited intimacy in their partnerships—all while prioritizing their own body, mind, spirit, and joy. She’s trained on mindset + energetics across the US and internationally, and when she’s not dropping truth bombs on the Full Out podcast, you’ll find her in ballet class, sipping her favorite greens drink or soaking up snuggles with her son. To work with Sam, email sam@samanthajoharvey.com or connect with her on Instagram Follow on Instagram Listen to the Full Out Podcast Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

Join us this week for our Inside EMC segment where we chat: Celebrating the Podcasts 1 Year Anniversary Costume Parade: What it is and why it’s important Holiday Celebration Production Kick-Off Production Rehearsals How to stop mindlessly scrolling using Brick Get Your Brick and Support the Podcast: For $10 off your brick and to give $10 to the podcast, click HERE.  Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram

In this episode, Robin Snyder-Wiencek interviews Julie, The Musical Experience director at EMC Performing Arts Studio. They discuss Julie's journey into the theater world, her experiences in college, the evolution of auditions, and the importance of preparation and mentorship. Julie shares her insights on the challenges of staying focused in New York, the value of diverse roles in performing arts, and her reflections on her journey beyond Broadway. The conversation highlights the significance of passion, resilience, and the various paths within the performing arts. Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here

Join us this week for our What's Happening at EMC segment where we chat: Ticket Pre-Sale and what to expect Holiday Celebration Hub Ballet & Tap Basics in the Holiday Celebration Tutu Under The Tree and how to join us for this special gift of dance Free Form Friday Recap for What’s the Pointe? How to stop mindlessly scrolling using Brick Get Your Brick and Support the Podcast: For $10 off your brick and to give $10 to the podcast, click HERE.  Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram