The Dance Yourself Brave Show

In this episode of the Dance Yourself Brave Show, host Mariana Santos interviews Alan Medina, a dynamic performer and dance instructor. Alan shares his journey into dance, starting later in life and overcoming challenges along the way. He emphasizes the importance of passion, commitment, and finding a supportive community. The conversation also touches on cultural influences in dance, teaching philosophies, and inspiring student success stories. Alan offers valuable advice for aspiring dancers and highlights the significance of surrounding oneself with supportive individuals.Connect with Alan:https://www.instagram.com/mralanmedina..💛 Ready to stop overthinking and start showing up with confidence?Join our free community - Brazily Dance: The Brave Ones - where we use Brazilian dance fitness to help you build the kind of confidence that changes everything.You’ll learn simple moves, get support from a powerful crew, and start stepping into the version of you who goes for it — on the dance floor and in life.👉 Join us here: ⁠⁠https://brazilyfitness.com/brazily-dance-community⁠⁠⁠

In this episode of the Dance Yourself Brave Show, host Mariana Santos interviews Maia Mahosky, a lifelong dancer and dance educator. They discuss Maia's journey in dance, the challenges of balancing a career with motherhood, and the importance of self-discovery in the dance world. Maia shares her experiences as a dance teacher, the impact she hopes to make in her students' lives, and the joy of movement. The conversation emphasizes the significance of compassion, personal growth, and the value of dance as a form of expression and community.Connect with Maia:https://thecasualdanceteacherspodcast.transistor.fm/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/1137983550686406..💛 Ready to stop overthinking and start showing up with confidence?Join our free community - Brazily Dance: The Brave Ones - where we use Brazilian dance fitness to help you build the kind of confidence that changes everything.You’ll learn simple moves, get support from a powerful crew, and start stepping into the version of you who goes for it — on the dance floor and in life.👉 Join us here: ⁠⁠https://brazilyfitness.com/brazily-dance-community⁠⁠⁠

In this episode of the Dance Yourself Brave Show, host Mariana Santos interviews dance teacher Josh Nitkin, who shares his journey in dance, the challenges he faced, and the importance of support systems. They discuss the impact of bullying on personal growth, the significance of understanding and compassion in today's world, and the joy of witnessing student success stories. Josh encourages adults to take the leap into dance and emphasizes the life lessons learned through dance, such as independence and resilience.Connect with Josh:https://www.instagram.com/dancing.with.mr.joshhttps://www.tiktok.com/@mr.josh.dance.geekhttps://www.youtube.com/@mrjoshdance..💛 Ready to stop overthinking and start showing up with confidence?Join our free community - Brazily Dance: The Brave Ones - where we use Brazilian dance fitness to help you build the kind of confidence that changes everything.You’ll learn simple moves, get support from a powerful crew, and start stepping into the version of you who goes for it — on the dance floor and in life.👉 Join us here: ⁠https://brazilyfitness.com/brazily-dance-community⁠⁠

In this episode, Mariana Santos discusses the significance of gratitude, especially during the Thanksgiving season. She emphasizes how dance can be a powerful tool to cultivate gratitude and positivity in our lives. Mariana shares personal experiences and scientific insights on how focusing on gratitude can rewire our brains for resilience. She also provides practical steps for listeners to incorporate gratitude into their daily routines through movement and reflection...💛 Ready to stop overthinking and start showing up with confidence?Join our free community - Brazily Dance: The Brave Ones - where we use Brazilian dance fitness to help you build the kind of confidence that changes everything.You’ll learn simple moves, get support from a powerful crew, and start stepping into the version of you who goes for it — on the dance floor and in life.👉 Join us here: ⁠https://brazilyfitness.com/brazily-dance-community⁠⁠

In this episode of the Dance Yourself Brave Show, host Mariana Santos interviews Torin Ives, a passionate dance teacher and filmmaker. Torin shares her journey from a young dancer to a collegiate competitor and now a teacher who aims to create a positive and encouraging environment for her students. They discuss the struggles faced in the dance community, the importance of building confidence in students, and the need for respect in the dance world. Torin emphasizes that dance should be fun and accessible for everyone, regardless of their background or experience. The conversation highlights the impact of good teaching and the importance of fostering a love for dance in students.Connect with Torin:https://www.instagram.com/torin.iveshttps://www.tiktok.com/@callthemathletes💛 Ready to stop overthinking and start showing up with confidence?Join our free community - Brazily Dance: The Brave Ones - where we use Brazilian dance fitness to help you build the kind of confidence that changes everything.You’ll learn simple moves, get support from a powerful crew, and start stepping into the version of you who goes for it — on the dance floor and in life.👉 Join us here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://brazilyfitness.com/brazily-dance-community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this episode of the Dance Yourself Brave Show, host Mariana Santos interviews Charlotte Franklin, a Scottish dancer who has performed for major artists and is passionate about giving back to the dance community. They discuss Charlotte's journey into dance, the challenges she faced, including injuries and the impact of COVID-19, and how these experiences shaped her as a person. Charlotte shares her insights on the importance of community, women's rights, and the joy of teaching. She also offers advice for aspiring dancers and highlights the significance of perseverance and self-discovery in the dance industry.Connect with Charlotte:https://www.instagram.com/charlottefranklin7/https://www.instagram.com/btb_intensive..💛 Ready to stop overthinking and start showing up with confidence?Join our free community - Brazily Dance: The Brave Ones - where we use Brazilian dance fitness to help you build the kind of confidence that changes everything.You’ll learn simple moves, get support from a powerful crew, and start stepping into the version of you who goes for it — on the dance floor and in life.👉 Join us here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://brazilyfitness.com/brazily-dance-community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this episode of the Dance Yourself Brave Show, host Mariana Santos interviews Melanie Durham, a seasoned dance teacher and consultant. They discuss Melanie's journey in dance, the challenges she faced growing up, and how her early responsibilities shaped her into a mentor and teacher. Melanie shares her passion for teaching life skills through dance, the joy she finds in mentoring students, and the importance of resilience in today's world. They also touch on encouraging adults to start dancing and the significance of finding joy in movement. The conversation concludes with Melanie sharing how to connect with her and her work in the dance community.....Connect with Melanie: www.Melanie5678.comhttps://www.instagram.com/Ms_Melanie5678..💛 Ready to stop overthinking and start showing up with confidence?Join our free community - Brazily Dance: The Brave Ones - where we use Brazilian dance fitness to help you build the kind of confidence that changes everything.You’ll learn simple moves, get support from a powerful crew, and start stepping into the version of you who goes for it — on the dance floor and in life.👉 Join us here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://brazilyfitness.com/brazily-dance-community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this heartfelt episode, Mariana Santos explores the delicate balance between rest and resilience. Battling a cold, she shares personal insights on the importance of listening to our bodies and embracing the rhythm of life. Drawing from her Brazilian roots, Mariana reminds us that joy and struggle can coexist, and that true bravery lies in both bold and gentle moves. Tune in for a soothing reminder to pause, breathe, and trust that rest is an essential part of growth. ..💛 Ready to stop overthinking and start showing up with confidence?Join our free community - Brazily Dance: The Brave Ones - where we use Brazilian dance fitness to help you build the kind of confidence that changes everything.You’ll learn simple moves, get support from a powerful crew, and start stepping into the version of you who goes for it — on the dance floor and in life.👉 Join us here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://brazilyfitness.com/brazily-dance-community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this conversation, Jessica shares her inspiring journey into the world of dance, starting later than most but finding her passion and confidence through perseverance. She discusses the challenges she faced, the importance of teaching and empowering the next generation of dancers, and her commitment to giving back to her community. Jessica emphasizes that it's never too late to start dancing and encourages others to take that first step towards discovering their passion.Connect with Jess:https://www.instagram.com/choreo_byjess/https://www.facebook.com/Choreographybyjess..💛 Ready to stop overthinking and start showing up with confidence?Join our free community - Brazily Dance: The Brave Ones - where we use Brazilian dance fitness to help you build the kind of confidence that changes everything.You’ll learn simple moves, get support from a powerful crew, and start stepping into the version of you who goes for it — on the dance floor and in life.👉 Join us here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://brazilyfitness.com/brazily-dance-community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this episode of the Dance Yourself Brave Show, host Mariana Santos interviews multi-disciplinary performing artist Danielle Marie Fusco. They discuss Danielle's journey in dance, the struggles and triumphs she has faced, the importance of authenticity, and the financial aspects of being a dancer. Danielle shares her insights on teaching, the ripple effect of empowering students, and the significance of community and kindness in the dance world. She encourages those interested in dance to embrace their uniqueness and to not let age or self-doubt hold them back.Connect with Danielle Marie:www.facebook.com/daniellemariefusco https://www.instagram.com/daniellemariefuscohttps://www.instagram.com/american.stregawww.daniellemariefusco.com..💛 Ready to stop overthinking and start showing up with confidence?Join our free community - Brazily Dance: The Brave Ones - where we use Brazilian dance fitness to help you build the kind of confidence that changes everything.You’ll learn simple moves, get support from a powerful crew, and start stepping into the version of you who goes for it — on the dance floor and in life.👉 Join us here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://brazilyfitness.com/brazily-dance-community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this episode of the Dance Yourself Brave Show, host Mariana Santos interviews Nerissa Westcott, a passionate dance director and founder of Artistic Edge Dance Company. Nerissa shares her journey from a young dancer to a dance educator, discussing the challenges she faced along the way, including the struggle for confidence and financial stability in the arts. She emphasizes the importance of community support and the transformative power of dance in promoting mental health and positivity. Nerissa encourages listeners to embrace their passion for dance, regardless of their experience level, and to trust the journey of self-discovery through movement.Get in touch with Narissa:https://www.instagram.com/fellnarissa https://www.instagram.com/artisitcedgedancecompany https://www.instagram.com/dancetheedgecompetition Facebook- Narissa Wescott / Artistic Edge Dance Company ..💛 Ready to stop overthinking and start showing up with confidence? Join our free community - Brazily Dance: The Brave Ones - where we use Brazilian dance fitness to help you build the kind of confidence that changes everything.You’ll learn simple moves, get support from a powerful crew, and start stepping into the version of you who goes for it — on the dance floor and in life.👉 Join us here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://brazilyfitness.com/brazily-dance-community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this episode of the Dance Yourself Brave Show, host Mariana Santos speaks with Laura Armstrong, a mindset strategist and three-time world champion martial artist, about the importance of money mindset for dance instructors. They discuss how instructors can shift their perspectives on pricing, recognize the value they bring to their students, and overcome limiting beliefs about money. Laura emphasizes the significance of understanding the transformation instructors provide beyond just dance, and how to effectively communicate that value to attract ideal clients. The conversation also touches on setting boundaries, empowering instructors to charge what they are worth, and the importance of community in the dance world.Connect with Laura:https://wealthstrategywithlaura.com/https://www.instagram.com/ldrshpwithlaura/.💛 Ready to stop overthinking and start showing up with confidence?Join our free community - Brazily Dance: The Brave Ones - where we use Brazilian dance fitness to help you build the kind of confidence that changes everything.You’ll learn simple moves, get support from a powerful crew, and start stepping into the version of you who goes for it — on the dance floor and in life.👉 Join us here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://brazilyfitness.com/brazily-dance-community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this episode of the Dance Yourself Brave Show, host Mariana Santos interviews Maurryn Sweeney, a dance instructor and makeup artist. They discuss Morin's journey into dance, the challenges she faced, and how these experiences shaped her as a teacher and person. Morin emphasizes the importance of connection, creativity, and community in dance, and shares her aspirations for the future, including opening her own dance studio. The conversation highlights the transformative power of dance and the need for freedom of expression in the art form.Connect with Maurryn:https://www.instagram.com/itsdogear..💛 Ready to stop overthinking and start showing up with confidence?Join our free community - Brazily Dance: The Brave Ones - where we use Brazilian dance fitness to help you build the kind of confidence that changes everything.You’ll learn simple moves, get support from a powerful crew, and start stepping into the version of you who goes for it — on the dance floor and in life.👉 Join us here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://brazilyfitness.com/brazily-dance-community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Join host Mariana Santos as she interviews dancer and choreographer James MahKween about his journey from no formal dance training to studying at AMDA and building a career in Los Angeles. James shares insights on choreography, vulnerability, self-love, and the power of dance communities, plus advice for aspiring dancers navigating social media and the modern dance world.He also discusses his vision for philanthropy in dance and creating opportunities for others, inspiring listeners to embrace their passions and dance boldly.Connect with James here:https://canvasrebel.com/meet-james-mahkween/https://voyageatl.com/interview/daily-inspiration-meet-james-mahkween/https://www.instagram.com/the_mahkween_method?igsh=MW4wbGV3c25ueTV5&utm_source=qrhttps://youtube.com/@mrd0lly?si=UDDnE6pED9xCpGDvhttps://www.facebook.com/share/NVbpsK6824nPFXAF/?mibextid=LQQJ4d..💛 Ready to stop overthinking and start showing up with confidence?Join our free community - Brazily Dance: The Brave Ones - where we use Brazilian dance fitness to help you build the kind of confidence that changes everything.You’ll learn simple moves, get support from a powerful crew, and start stepping into the version of you who goes for it — on the dance floor and in life.👉 Join us here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://brazilyfitness.com/brazily-dance-community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Bree Foerster takes us on her powerful journey from growing up in Germany to becoming an award-winning choreographer and respected contemporary dance teacher. She opens up about the struggles she faced along the way—including health challenges, imposter syndrome, and the pressure of pursuing excellence—while sharing how she transformed those obstacles into fuel for growth. Today, Bree is known not only for her artistry but also for her dedication to building an inclusive dance community that celebrates self-love, diversity, and authenticity. Whether you’re a dancer, teacher, or simply someone navigating your own path of personal growth, Bree’s story will inspire you to embrace your unique journey and step fully into your power.Connect with Bree:⁠https://www.instagram.com/bree_foerster⁠..💛 Ready to stop overthinking and start showing up with confidence?Join our free community - Brazily Dance: The Brave Ones - where we use Brazilian dance fitness to help you build the kind of confidence that changes everything.You’ll learn simple moves, get support from a powerful crew, and start stepping into the version of you who goes for it — on the dance floor and in life.👉 Join us here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://brazilyfitness.com/brazily-dance-community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

What if the key to better public health was as simple as more people dancing together? In this energizing episode of the Dance Yourself Brave Show, host Mariana Santos chats with Justin Tamsett—Australia’s most awarded fitness industry business consultant and international speaker—about why dance fitness is uniquely positioned to get people moving and feeling better.From breaking down industry silos to shifting from scarcity to collaboration, Mariana and Justin unpack why fun and community are essential to participation, how instructors can stand out by owning their “why,” and why strategic planning matters—even for part-time dancepreneurs.They also explore the mental and physical benefits of dance, its power to combat loneliness and depression, and practical ways instructors can position themselves as key contributors to public health. Whether you’re a dance fitness pro, gym owner, or simply passionate about movement, this episode delivers mindset shifts and actionable steps you can put into practice right away.Connect with Justin here:https://www.FitnessBusinessPodcast.com https://www.instagram.com/FitnessBusinessPodcasthttps://www.Patreon.com/FitnessBusinessPodcast..💛 Ready to stop overthinking and start showing up with confidence?Join our free community - Brazily Dance: The Brave Ones - where we use Brazilian dance fitness to help you build the kind of confidence that changes everything.You’ll learn simple moves, get support from a powerful crew, and start stepping into the version of you who goes for it — on the dance floor and in life.👉 Join us here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://brazilyfitness.com/brazily-dance-community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this inspiring episode of the Dance Yourself Brave Show, host Mariana Santos sits down with dance instructor Kyrie Kowalik to explore her powerful journey from competitive gymnastics to rediscovering her true passion for dance.Kyrie opens up about the challenges she faced along the way, including overcoming setbacks and rebuilding her confidence. Together, they discuss the importance of trust, resilience, and support within the dance community, and why celebrating small wins can make a big difference in a dancer’s journey.As a dedicated teacher, Kyrie shares how she fosters a positive and inclusive dance environment, encouraging students of all levels to embrace the belief that dance is for everyone. She also offers valuable advice for new dancers, emphasizing the role of community and connection in personal growth and confidence-building.Whether you’re a beginner, a seasoned dancer, or simply passionate about the transformative power of movement, this episode will leave you motivated to step out of your comfort zone and dance yourself brave!🎧 Tune in now to hear Kyrie’s inspiring story and learn how you can build confidence, resilience, and joy through dance.Connect with Kyrie here:https://www.instagram.com/annekyriehttps://kyriekowalikdance.com..💛 Ready to stop overthinking and start showing up with confidence?Join our free community - Brazily Dance: The Brave Ones - where we use Brazilian dance fitness to help you build the kind of confidence that changes everything.You’ll learn simple moves, get support from a powerful crew, and start stepping into the version of you who goes for it — on the dance floor and in life.👉 Join us here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://brazilyfitness.com/brazily-dance-community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this inspiring episode of The Dance Yourself Brave Show, host Mariana Santos sits down with professional dancer and teacher Ornella Saliba to explore her remarkable journey from Lebanon to Canada and the diverse cultural influences that shaped her unique dance style.Ornella opens up about overcoming personal challenges, including body image struggles and the career setbacks brought on by COVID-19. She shares powerful insights on body positivity, the importance of strong support systems, and how dance can be a bold expression of individuality.This heartfelt conversation also highlights the value of face-to-face connections in today’s digital world and provides practical advice for aspiring dancers looking to build confidence, embrace their uniqueness, and pursue their passion for dance.Whether you’re a dancer, teacher, or simply someone who loves stories of resilience and self-expression, this episode will inspire you to move with courage and authenticity.🎧 Listen now to discover how Ornella transformed challenges into opportunities and how you can dance yourself brave!Connect with Ornella:https://www.facebook.com/share/15j7XQxJS5/https://www.instagram.com/ornellaory?igsh=ZWg0cGczZjRjczc5https://youtube.com/@ornellasaliba4719?si=_BMfTXm1KxYNOkOr..💛 Ready to stop overthinking and start showing up with confidence?Join our free community - Brazily Dance: The Brave Ones - where we use Brazilian dance fitness to help you build the kind of confidence that changes everything.You’ll learn simple moves, get support from a powerful crew, and start stepping into the version of you who goes for it — on the dance floor and in life.👉 Join us here: ⁠⁠⁠https://brazilyfitness.com/brazily-dance-community⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this episode of the Dance Yourself Brave Show, host Mariana Santos sits down with professional dance educator and choreographer Jessica Wellington to explore the powerful role of dance in personal growth and empowerment.Jessica shares her inspiring journey into the world of dance—from early struggles to building a successful career as a dance teacher and choreographer. She opens up about the confidence and life skills gained through dance and how she now helps her students grow both on and off the dance floor.You’ll also hear a candid discussion on the challenges dancers face in today’s social media-driven world, and the joy of using dance as a form of celebration and self-expression. Jessica offers heartfelt advice on how to start dancing at any age—and why it’s never too late.Connect with Jessica here: https://www.instagram.com/jesswellington49https://www.instagram.com/pa_dance_cohttps://www.facebook.com/thepennsylvanadancecompany..💛 Ready to stop overthinking and start showing up with confidence?Join our free community - Brazily Dance: The Brave Ones - where we use Brazilian dance fitness to help you build the kind of confidence that changes everything.You’ll learn simple moves, get support from a powerful crew, and start stepping into the version of you who goes for it — on the dance floor and in life.👉 Join us here: ⁠⁠https://brazilyfitness.com/brazily-dance-community⁠⁠⁠

Ever wonder why it's so hard to stay consistent with your dance or fitness goals—even when you really want it?This solo session of The Dance Yourself Brave Show , we dive deep into the psychology of resistance and why your brain is designed to pull you back the moment you try to level up. Host Mariana Santos shares science-backed insights and mindset strategies every dance lover, instructor, and fitness enthusiast needs to hear.Whether you're leading the class or stepping onto the dance floor for the first time, this episode will help you recognize resistance, build momentum, and keep showing up—bravely and consistently.🎧 Press play, take notes, and Dance Yourself Brave...💛 Ready to stop overthinking and start showing up with confidence?Join our free community - Brazily Dance: The Brave Ones - where we use Brazilian dance fitness to help you build the kind of confidence that changes everything.You’ll learn simple moves, get support from a powerful crew, and start stepping into the version of you who goes for it — on the dance floor and in life.👉 Join us here: ⁠https://brazilyfitness.com/brazily-dance-community⁠⁠