Fit, Fierce and Fearless, presented by GenX Pole Arts

I honestly can’t believe we’re here. Fifty episodes of Fit, Fierce & Fearless, and this milestone episode felt like the perfect moment to bring on a guest who truly embodies everything this podcast stands for.Today I’m joined by Chivon (also known as Firestorm) — dancer, instructor, performer, business owner, and all-around magical force of nature. If you’ve ever wondered what it looks like to fully step into your power after 40, this conversation is it.In This Episode, We Discuss:How pole dance becomes a gateway to self-trust, freedom, and reinventionLetting go of other people’s expectations (and the masks we wear) as we ageThe magic of movement, presence, and storytelling through danceInjury, recovery, and why rest can make you stronger than beforeWhy women-centered spaces feel threatening—and why they’re essentialCreating intentional, heart-centered studios and classroomsSensuality, creativity, and feminine energy as forms of self-care and resistanceAging boldly, unapologetically, and on your own termsWhat it means to live fully—ass out, heart open, fear turned way downChivon shares her 10-year pole journey, how she merged movement with ritual and spirituality, and how her signature classes—like Goddess and Bedtime Stories—give women permission to explore character, sensuality, and expression without rules or judgment.🔗 Connect with Chivon (Firestorm): Follow @firrestorrm on InstagramThis episode is about permission—permission to take up space, to be seen, to be messy and magical, and to live your one wild life fully.Start your journey today!Want to try pole? Join a class at your local studio or download the free GenX Pole Arts Starter Kit⁠ to begin exploring at home.Visit the Linktree for links for upcoming workshops, YouTube videos, and resources to support your pole journey. ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to share, subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps uplift and empower more women over 40 in the pole dance community and beyond!

Welcome to Season 2 of Fit, Fierce, and Fearless — and I honestly can’t believe I’m saying this — this episode marks one full year of the podcast.To kick things off, I had to bring you someone truly special. My guest today is Lauren Hill, and if you’ve seen her on Instagram or in real life, you already know she brings a fearless, rebellious, deeply creative energy that fits this podcast perfectly.Lauren is a pole and aerial artist, a visual artist, and a self-taught mover who lives for anything that involves being in the air. In this episode, we talk about her lifelong obsession with flight, how pole and aerial became a natural extension of that, and why she’s now starting flight school at 40 — yes, actually flying planes.This conversation is about so much more than pole. It’s about control, joy, creativity, embodiment, and what happens when you stop trying to fit into traditional systems and start trusting your own way of moving, creating, and living.In This Episode, We Discuss:Celebrating one year of the Fit, Fierce, and Fearless podcastStarting flight school at 40 and the connection between flying and poleHow aerial movement becomes a moving meditationHow a family plane crash shaped fear, control, and masteryBeing self-taught and breaking away from traditional dance systemsTurning movement into art through pole, aerial, and paintingWhy beginners are already beautiful at any ageThe power of community, collaboration, and connectionThis conversation is a reminder that art, movement, and connection are acts of resistance — especially in a world that often encourages isolation. Pole and aerial arts aren’t just fitness; they’re tools for self-expression, empowerment, healing, and community.Lauren’s story is proof that creativity doesn’t expire — it evolves.🔗 Connect with Lauren: Follow @laurenfuckinghill on InstagramStart your journey today!Want to try pole? Join a class at your local studio or download the free GenX Pole Arts Starter Kit⁠ to begin exploring at home.Visit the Linktree for links for upcoming workshops, YouTube videos, and resources to support your pole journey. ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to share, subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps uplift and empower more women over 40 in the pole dance community and beyond!

Welcome to Fit, Fierce, and Fearless Season 2!In this first episode of Season 2, we revisit the five most-streamed episodes of Season 1.Episode 1 - The GenX Pole Arts Origin StoryEpisode 3 - A Conversation with Deeana GarciaEpisode 6 - A Conversation with FirebirdEpisode 27 - A Special Episode with Shana PereiraEpisode 47 - A Conversation with FirebirdThese five inspirational episodes are the perfect overview of what this podcast is all about. You will feel inspired.

Welcome to the final episode of Fit, Fierce, and Fearless for 2025—and the season finale of our very first year.For this special episode, I’m joined once again by Firebird, who is not only a three-time guest on the podcast, but also the guest from our most-streamed episode of the year. Bringing her back felt like the perfect way to close out this season and reflect on growth, creativity, resilience, and the power of pole dance as we move into 2026.We talk honestly about how much can change in a year—physically, emotionally, and creatively—and how pole dance continues to be a grounding, healing, and empowering force for women over 40.In This Episode, We Discuss:Reflecting on the success of Season One and what consistency can createFirebird’s evolution as a dancer and teacherLetting go of “tricks” and industry expectations in favor of embodied, joyful movementThe role of pole dance in emotional processing, healing, and self-expressionThe importance of community, in-person connection, and shared energyLooking ahead to 2026, including retreats, travel, and what’s nextThis conversation is a reminder that growth doesn’t always come from pushing harder—it often comes from listening more deeply to your body, your emotions, and your intuition. Pole dance gives us permission to move slowly, sensually, powerfully, and honestly—exactly as we are, at any age.🔗 Connect with Firebird: Follow @firebirdpole on Instagram💖 Thank You!I am so grateful to Firebird, to every guest who joined me this year, and to all of you who listened, shared, reviewed, and supported the podcast. This show would not exist without this incredible community.Start your journey today!Want to try pole? Join a class at your local studio or download the free GenX Pole Arts Starter Kit⁠ to begin exploring at home.Visit the Linktree for links for upcoming workshops, YouTube videos, and resources to support your pole journey. ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to share, subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps uplift and empower more women over 40 in the pole dance community and beyond!

In this episode of Fit, Fierce, and Fearless, I had the absolute honor of sitting down with someone I’ve admired for years—Makeda, the incredible woman behind Flying Over 50.I’ve been following Makeda since the very beginning of my own pole journey, and having her on the podcast felt full-circle. She is living proof that movement, confidence, sensuality, and strength do not expire with age. At 64, she is still dancing, still inspiring, and still redefining what’s possible for women over 50.This conversation was honest, empowering, funny, and deeply relatable. We talked about aging, pole, body changes, mindset shifts, and the freedom that comes from letting go of who we think we’re supposed to be.In This Episode, We Discuss:How Makeda found pole dance later in life—and why it changed everythingThe origin story behind Flying Over 50 and the importance of representationBreaking societal myths about aging, femininity, and movementNavigating body changes, menopause, and self-acceptance with compassionThe shift from aerial tricks to low flow—and honoring different seasons of movementWhy the pole community is so uniquely supportive, especially onlineThe power of movement as healing, focus, and self-connectionCreating safe, accessible spaces for older women to move—at home and onlineMakeda’s evolution into The Makeda Method, offering private online sessions, deep stretch yoga, and breathworkThis conversation is a reminder that it’s never too late to start something new, reclaim your body, or redefine what strength and beauty look like. Whether you’re a seasoned pole dancer, new to movement, or simply curious, this episode will leave you feeling inspired, validated, and empowered.🔗 Connect with Makeda:Follow @FlyingOver50 on InstagramStart your journey today!Want to try pole? Join a class at your local studio or download the free GenX Pole Arts Starter Kit⁠ to begin exploring at home.Visit the Linktree for links for upcoming workshops, YouTube videos, and resources to support your pole journey. ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍  ‍‍If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to share, subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps uplift and empower more women over 40 in the pole dance community and beyond!

In this episode, I sit down with Fran, the powerhouse coach behind Body by Fran — a trainer, pole athlete, physique competitor, and educator who has built a reputation for transforming bodies and mindsets with equal intensity.We explore her evolution from passionate mover to competitive pole athlete to certified bodybuilding coach, and how she blends these worlds to help her clients build strength, mobility, body awareness, and unapologetic confidence. We also talk about her signature certification program for pole instructors, created to elevate coaching standards and equip instructors with evidence-based strength and conditioning principles.This conversation is a masterclass in what it means to pursue strength from the inside out.How Fran discovered pole dance and rose into the competitive pole worldThe discipline and artistry behind training as a pole athleteHer transition from bodybuilding and physique competitions to poleWhy these two disciplines complement each other more than you’d thinkThe training philosophies behind Body by FranHow she coaches pole dancers to build the functional strength, mobility, and endurance required for high-level tricksHow she coaches bodybuilders to develop symmetry, conditioning, and stage confidenceHer specialized certification program for pole instructors, designed to help them safely train students, program intelligently, and understand biomechanicsWhy she rejects one-size-fits-all fitness and builds programs around each client’s unique mechanicsThe mindset work that makes physical transformation possibleFran is a pole athlete, competitive bodybuilder, strength coach, and educator with a dual specialty that sets her apart in the fitness world. Her methodology blends performance training, aesthetic conditioning, biomechanics, and deep respect for the body’s lived experience.She has coached:Competitive and recreational pole dancers working toward inversions, handsprings, ayeshas, power spins, dynamic movement, and stage conditioningBodybuilders preparing for stage, working on symmetry, physique development, glute/hamstring emphasis, and overall conditioningEveryday athletes seeking stronger, more confident, more capable bodiesPole instructors pursuing her specialized certification, which teaches them how to safely progress students, understand movement mechanics, and apply strength and conditioning principles to pole danceFran understands both the artistry of pole and the discipline of bodybuilding — and teaches with the precision, intensity, and compassion of someone who has lived both worlds.This conversation is for anyone who:Wants to understand the real strength and science behind pole danceIs curious about bodybuilding or physique trainingWants a coach who blends compassion with elite-level expertiseIs learning to rewrite old stories around strength, age, or abilityIs a pole instructor seeking deeper knowledge and more effective programmingFran’s work reframes fitness as a form of self-respect and personal power, not punishment or performance.Pole dance is an elite athletic discipline requiring strength, endurance, mobility, and technical skill.Bodybuilding teaches discipline, structure, and intentional muscle development that complements pole perfectly.Instructor education matters — and Fran’s certification fills a major gap in pole teaching standards.Strength begins with the way you think and speak to yourself.It is never too late to build strength, capability, and confidence.Connect with Fran & Explore Her Programs:Fran on InstagramLevel 1 Pole Studio CertificationPole Body BootcampBody by Fran WebsiteStart your journey today!Want to try pole? Join a class at your local studio or download the free GenX Pole Arts Starter Kit⁠ to begin exploring at home.Visit the Linktree for links for upcoming workshops, YouTube videos, and resources to support your pole journey.

Theme of the EpisodeIn this episode, Zen explores how the stories we tell ourselves can distort our sense of ability, identity, and worth. From underestimating our physical capabilities to minimizing the legitimacy of our own careers, this episode digs into the quiet, persistent narratives that shape how we see ourselves — and how often they’re completely false.Zen shares how she spent three years believing she couldn’t do the pole trick Ayesha, despite having the strength and skill to do it long before she finally tried again. That internal script — “I can’t do this” — became truth simply because she repeated it.She also reframes another powerful narrative: the myth that she “doesn’t have a job” because she’s not currently drawing a paycheck. In reality, she is working — building, creating, teaching, producing, and leading — and her entrepreneurial path deserves the same respect as any traditional career. This episode is about reclaiming your own story before someone else defines it for you.So many women in midlife carry outdated beliefs about what they can do, what they’re allowed to do, or what “counts” as real work. GenX women have spent decades prioritizing everyone else. This conversation speaks directly to those who are rewriting their identities, trying new things, building new careers, or reclaiming their physical power later in life. The stories we repeat matter — and it’s never too late to change the narrative.“I have a fucking job. I’m just not getting a paycheck.”This episode invites you to:Question the limiting stories you’ve accepted as truthRecognize where outdated beliefs are holding you backReframe how you talk about your work, your abilities, and your worthAllow yourself to evolve without apologizing for itIf this episode resonated, please subscribe, rate, and share the podcast — it helps the show reach more people who need it.And if you’ve been wanting to try pole dancing but don’t know where to start, download the free GenX Pole Arts Starter Kit and begin safely at home, at your own pace.Episode DetailsWhy It Matters for GenX WomenQuote & TakeawaysSupport the Show

In this episode of Fit, Fierce, and Fearless, I chat with the incredible Mary Caryl, a 72-year-old multi-talented artist, pole dancer, performer, designer, and entrepreneur who is an inspiring example of living a heart-led, joyful life.From revealing her secrets for candy-making, skincare, wellness, and staying active, to diving deep into her love for pole dancing, Mary Caryl shares  how she maintains strength, beauty, and joy while juggling performances, travel, design work, family, pets, and all of life’s challenges.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The story of how Mary discovered and fell in love with pole in her late 50sPractical wellness and skincare routines that support aging gracefully.The benefits of collagen, vitamins, and supplements for overall health.Why stress-free eating and a balanced approach to life and diet matter for longevity.How pole dancing keeps Mary Caryl physically and mentally strong.The importance of studio energy versus at-home practice for pole skill growth.Tips for embracing life changes, fashion, and your evolving self with confidence.Behind-the-scenes of designing pole dance apparel for all types of women.Upcoming pole performances and competitions and the story behind Mary Caryl’s other creative projects.Nothing ever stays the same. Embrace the changes, embrace the new you, and give attention to your soul and spirit—they will keep you young, vibrant, and fearless.Follow Mary Caryl @marycarylglam and @marycaryldesignWebsite: marycaryldesigns.comDiscount code for Mary Caryl Designs PCW2025Start your journey today!Want to try pole? Join a class at your local studio or download the free GenX Pole Arts Starter Kit⁠ to begin exploring at home.Visit the Linktree for links for upcoming workshops, YouTube videos, and resources to support your pole journey. ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍  ‍‍If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to share, subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps uplift and empower more women over 40 in the pole dance community and beyond!

In this powerful and honest episode of Fit, Fierce, and Fearless, I talk with the incredible Jacq—multi-disciplinary artist, self-published author, performer, and deeply insightful human navigating a season of uncertainty, growth, and courageous self-reinvention.This conversation is honest, warm, and full of truth-telling about creativity, fear, self-expression, and the importance of community during challenging times. Together, we explore what it means to stay rooted in authenticity—especially when the world feels uncertain—and how art, embodiment, and connection can anchor us through it all.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Jacq’s journey as a writer and the reality behind creating her first bookHow a super-successful, 10-year career as a stripper led to the invention of Jacq the Stripper, and ensuing creative endeavorsLessons learned about the vulnerability and freedom of self-publishing after writing 6 booksNavigating fear, censorship, and major life transitions as an artist The healing power of community, connection, and in-person experiencesRediscovery through movement, creativity, and embracing joy at any ageGet ready to be inspired, challenged, and reminded that it’s never too late to step into your power, express yourself fully, and embrace life with courage and creativity!Follow Jacq @jacq_francesConnect with Jacq & Explore Her Work:Linktree - Sign up for painting classes, get info on her books, and explore more of her art and creative projects—all in one place.Start your journey today!Want to try pole? Join a class at your local studio or download the free GenX Pole Arts Starter Kit⁠ to begin exploring at home.Visit the Linktree for links for upcoming workshops, YouTube videos, and resources to support your pole journey. ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to share, subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps uplift and empower more women over 40 in the pole dance community and beyond!

About This EpisodeThis week, Zen shares the heartbreaking news that her dear friend — and former Fit, Fierce & Fearless guest from Episode 28 — Shana Pereira has passed away. Many listeners will remember Shana’s strength, humor, and perspective, and may be stunned to learn of her loss. In honor of Shana’s life and message, Zen shares the full audio of her TED Talk within this episode.A personal update on Shana’s passing and the impact of her lossThe complete audio of Shana’s TED Talk, shared in her memoryZen’s reflections on grief, emotional heaviness, and showing up during a difficult weekA symbolic moment where her neon “Zen Pole” sign won’t turn on — unintentionally capturing exactly how she’s been feelingAn invitation for listeners to watch Shana’s TED Talk on YouTube to help amplify her messageA note about next week’s guest and Zen’s hope to return with more lightShana’s story touched many people, and this episode offers the chance to hear her voice and message again. If you’ve ever lost someone you love, or felt your own light dim in the aftermath, this conversation may bring comfort, connection, and reflection.Please watch her TED Talk on YouTube — linked below. Your view helps push her words to more people who may need them.Shana's TedTalk

Trigger Warning: this episode discusses domestic and sexual violence and abuse.In this inspiring episode, Zen dives into a raw and empowering conversation with comedian, pole coach, and all-around badass Orchid, as she opens up about rebuilding life after loss, owning her identity, and redefining strength as a woman over 40.We explore what it means to rise from a chapter you never asked for — to choose resilience, joy, and self-expression in a world that often underestimates women over 40. Through comedy and movement, Orchid continues to rewrite what confidence, beauty, and boldness can look like in midlife.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Orchids journey from profound grief to reclaiming joyWhy embracing your feminine power is NOT anti-feministThe power of movement — especially pole — to heal and transform confidenceHow women over 40 are rewriting the conversation around strength, sexuality & agingThe role of community in rebuilding identityWhy it’s never too late to try something totally newHow to step into your “stadium era” — believing your dreams deserve big stagesPrepare to feel seen, understood, and wildly empowered. You’re not behind… you’re right on time for your comeback.Follow Orchid @orchidcameronStart your journey today!Want to try pole? Join a class at your local studio or download the free GenX Pole Arts Starter Kit⁠ to begin exploring at home.Visit the Linktree for links for upcoming workshops, YouTube videos, and resources to support your pole journey.Upcoming Workshops:November 8 – Santa Fe, NMIf this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to share, subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps uplift and empower more women over 40 in the pole dance community and beyond!

In this inspiring episode of Fit, Fierce, and Fearless, Zen sits down with Panther, a 55-year-old dynamic, passionate, and beloved pole dance instructor with over 15 years of experience. From her first class and competition, to teaching countless students of every size and shape how to move with confidence, Panther shares her wisdom about growth, community, and owning your lane—no matter your age, body type, or skill level.Together, we dive into what it truly means to feel comfortable in your own skin, celebrate your strengths, and find joy in movement—without comparison or pressure. This conversation is full of laughter, heart, and lessons that every dancer (and woman!) can relate to.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:What it means to show up and push through, even when you don’t see anyone else in the room who looks like youThe importance of staying true to your own journey and letting go of comparisonWhy you’re never too old or out of shape to try something new, to start dancing, or to feel sexyHow to find your unique style and embrace what works for your bodyThe power of community, encouragement, and showing up authentically in classYou’ll walk away from this episode reminded that growth has no timeline, strength has no age, and your lane is exactly where your magic lives. Whether you’re stepping into the studio for the first time or rediscovering your fire, this episode will inspire you to move boldly, live fully, and dance like it’s your time—because it is.Follow Panther @Panther_4uStart your journey today!Want to try pole? Join a class at your local studio or download the free GenX Pole Arts Starter Kit⁠ to begin exploring at home.Visit the Linktree for links for upcoming workshops, YouTube videos, and resources to support your pole journey.Upcoming Workshops:November 8 – Santa Fe, NM ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍  ‍‍If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to share, subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps uplift and empower more women over 40 in the pole dance community and beyond!

Welcome to Fit, Fierce, and Fearless, the podcast by GenX Pole Arts! I’m Zen (Nancy Adzentoivich), here to celebrate women over 40 finding strength, confidence, and community through pole dancing.In this inspiring episode, Zen sits down with Kristina, a World Champion pole artist, to talk about her evolution in pole dance—from her athletic beginnings as a runner to becoming an international competitor. Kristina shares how pole has not only transformed her physically but also opened doors to creativity, community, and self-discovery.She opens up about the challenges of learning tricks, the joys of performance, and the surprising new skills she’s picked up along the way (like rhinestoning costumes and stage makeup!). Zen and Kristina explore the importance of patience, structure, and embracing the process of growth in pole.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How Kristina transitioned from running to pole dance.The role of community and competition in personal growth.Why patience and structure matter when learning pole tricks.How performing led to unexpected creative skills (costumes, makeup, dance classes).The importance of breaking down stigmas and respecting privacy in the pole world.Kristina’s upcoming plans and what’s next in her pole career.Christina’s journey is a reminder that pole is more than movement—it’s empowerment, artistry, and a celebration of resilience.Follow USPF @uspolesportfederationStart your journey today!Want to try pole? Join a class at your local studio or download the free GenX Pole Arts Starter Kit⁠ to begin exploring at home.Visit the Linktree for links for upcoming workshops, YouTube videos, and resources to support your pole journey.Upcoming Workshops:October 12 – Newburgh, NYNovember 8 – Santa Fe, NM ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍  ‍‍If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps uplift and empower more women over 40 in the pole dance community and beyond!

Sometimes the shortest updates are the most important. In this quick solo check-in, Zen shares news on upcoming GenX Pole Arts workshops and how you can get involved with the pole community near you.In this episode:Why supporting your local Pole Sport Organization (PSO) competitions matters for the growth of the communityWhere to find GenX Pole Arts swag featured on the podcast (DM or visit the shop)Registration info for upcoming workshops in Santa Fe, NM (Nov 8) and Newburgh, NY (Oct 12)An invitation for women over 40 who want to bring a GenX Pole Arts “Intro to Movement & Pole Dance” workshop to their cityLinks to ZenPole Instagram videos of recent competition performances for inspirationFor women over 40, this is your reminder: pole is for you. Whether you start at home with the free GenX Pole Arts Starter Kit or join a local class, movement is your chance to reconnect with strength, joy, and confidence.Share this episode, subscribe, and help spread the message that pole belongs to every body, at every age.

Welcome to Fit, Fierce, and Fearless, the podcast by GenX Pole Arts! I’m Zen (Nancy Adzentoivich), here to celebrate women over 40 finding strength, confidence, and community through pole dancing.In this episode of Fit, Fierce, and Fearless, Zen sits down with Susan to explore the journey of body image, strength, and self-acceptance through the art of pole. From navigating pregnancy and postpartum, to embracing body changes in midlife, they dive into how pole dance becomes more than just movement—it’s a powerful practice of creativity, resilience, and empowerment.Susan shares her personal story of finding confidence, rediscovering creativity, and learning to celebrate her body’s capabilities rather than focusing on aesthetics. Together, they remind us that it’s never too late to build strength, find community, and redefine how we see ourselves.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How pole dance helps shift focus from aesthetics to body capability.Why consistency matters during life transitions such as pregnancy, postpartum, and menopause.How strength training and movement can transform body image and confidence.The role of creativity in pole and how it can become a form of art.Why it’s never too late to become stronger than ever before.Whether you’re a mom, mom-to-be, or simply looking to reconnect with your body, this conversation is a heartfelt reminder to give yourself grace and embrace your unique journey.Follow Susan on IG: @SusususanjoStart your journey today!Want to try pole? Join a class at your local studio or download the free GenX Pole Arts Starter Kit⁠ to begin exploring at home.Visit the Linktree for links for upcoming workshops, YouTube videos, and resources to support your pole journey.Upcoming Workshops:October 12 – Newburgh, NYNovember 8 – Santa Fe, NMIf this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps uplift and empower more women over 40 in the pole dance community and beyond!

If you’ve ever wondered how to build more strength, endurance, and body awareness outside of pole, this episode is for you. Zen shares her first-hand experience trying Lagree Pilates, a high-intensity, low-impact workout designed to challenge your entire body.In this short solo episode, Zen talks about:What Lagree Pilates is and how it compares to traditional PilatesWhy it’s an effective cross-training option for pole dancersThe specific ways it targets strength and stability to support movementHow new workouts can expose weaknesses and help you growAn invitation for listeners to share other effective full-body training methodsFor women over 40, this is a reminder that pole progress doesn’t just happen on the pole—cross-training builds resilience, prevents injury, and helps you stay strong and confident.Ready to begin? Take a class at your local studio, or download the free GenX Pole Arts Starter Kit to start your journey at home.Check out the Linktree for links to upcoming workshops, YouTube, and to get the free pole dance starter kit and start your pole journey at home. Upcoming Workshops:October 12 – Newburgh, NYNovember 8 – Santa Fe, NM

If you’ve ever wanted to try pole dancing but felt too nervous, too old, or unsure where to start, this episode is for you. It’s also for anyone who knows the pull of creativity and the fear that often comes with trying something new.Zen sits down with Bryan, a dancer with nearly 40 years of training and almost two decades on the pole. In addition to her movement background, Bryan is a stand-up comedian, singer, songwriter, clothing designer, painter, and multimedia artist. She’s spent her life stepping into new forms of expression, even when they were intimidating—and her advice on how to manage fear, stay curious, and keep your body safe comes from that deep well of experience.In this episode, Bryan shares:Why curiosity drives growth: She talks about teaching herself hard and scary things—whether it was trying a new pole move, stepping into an aerial hoop, or walking onto a comedy stage.Breathwork to calm nerves: She explains how simple breath techniques help her move through the anxiety that always comes with new challenges.Injury prevention tips: With decades of training behind her, Bryan shares the practices that keep her body strong enough to support her creativity.Seeing fear as part of progress: She reminds us that anxiety is a natural part of learning, and the key is to keep going anyway.Encouragement to start now: Her message is simple—don’t wait for the perfect time. Take a breath, step forward, and give it a try.Follow Bryan on IG: @bryanleighsmithFor women over 40, Bryan’s story is proof that you can reinvent yourself again and again. Pole—and movement in general—is not about age, but about expression, vitality, and the courage to take risks.Ready to begin? Take a class at your local studio, or download the free GenX Pole Arts Starter Kit to start at home. Visit www.genxpolearts.com

Zen breaks down pole dance shoes — Pleasers, Hella Heels, and heel heights — in this watch-worthy episode.In this episode, Zen gives a practical breakdown of pole dance footwear and why your shoes matter just as much as your grip. She compares Pleasers and Hella Heels, explains how different heel heights (6”, 7”, 8”) affect your movement, and shares tips for choosing the right pair for your style and level.This is a visual episode: if you can, watch the video version to actually see the differences between brands and heel heights demonstrated side by side.Whether you’re a beginner looking for your first pair or an experienced dancer curious about upgrading your collection, this guide will help you find the right shoes to support both your movement and your artistry.Upcoming Events Mentioned:Harry Potter–themed comedy pole show with Christina Kalf (Zen as Moaning Myrtle) – SeptemberPSO Competition in Los Angeles – SeptemberSecret Pole Dance Studio Halloween Showcase – OctoberLadies of Leisure Halloween Pole Party – OctoberPleasers IG: @pleasershoesHella Heels IG: @clubhellaheelsIf you found this episode interesting, please like, comment and share!

In this episode, Zen sits down with Brian Riegel, a true pioneer in the pole community. With more than a decade of experience, Brian was one of the early male performers to step onto a pole stage — challenging stereotypes and carving out space for men in a predominantly female art form.Brian shares how his journey with pole began as an act of rebellion, a bold decision to push back against expectations and embrace something unconventional. What started as defiance soon turned into a deep source of expression, discipline, and community. Over the years, his passion for pole has taken him across the world — including competing in China, where he represented the artistry and athleticism of the sport on a global stage.In this conversation, Brian opens up about:Why he first turned to pole as a way to break rules and claim his identityWhat it was like to be one of the few men in pole a decade agoHow his motivations shifted over time, from rebellion to resilience and joyHis experience competing in China and what he learned from the international communityWhy he encourages everyone to just “give it a try” — because you never know where it will take youThis is a conversation about risk, reinvention, and the unexpected power of saying yes to something new. Brian’s story proves that sometimes the very act of stepping out of line can lead you to your truest self.✨ Connect with Brian on Instagram @riegelbrian If his journey inspires you, please share this episode with someone who might need the courage to take their own first step.Start your movement journey at home! Get the FREE Pole Dance Starter Kit at www.gexpolearts.com and use the discount code "FREE"

Pole progress isn’t about checking off a list of moves someone else decided you “should” learn—it’s about finding the movements that work for you and leaning into them.In this solo episode, Nancy (aka Zen) invites you to ditch the frustration of forcing your body into shapes that don’t align with its current strengths, proportions, or flexibility. Instead, she encourages you to discover what comes naturally, build on it, and watch your progress accelerate.It’s a mindset shift that brings more joy, more confidence, and more breakthroughs—on the pole and beyond. Plus, Nancy shares details about her upcoming beginner pole & movement workshop in Newburgh, NY, and other events on the horizon.What you’ll hear in this episode:How to identify the moves and styles that work best for your bodyWhy chasing “should” moves can lead to frustration and stagnationThe benefits of playing to your strengths to build confidence and momentumReframing success to focus on joy, curiosity, and personal growthDetails about the next upcoming beginner pole & movement workshop in Newburgh, NYA sneak peek at more workshops and events coming soon💬 Favorite quote:“If we’re having fun and learning about ourselves each time we step into the studio, that is success.”