Swing Life with Taylor Scanlan

In this very first episode of Swing Life with Taylor Scanlan, I’m giving you a look behind the curtain: who I am, why this podcast exists, and what you can expect moving forward. Whether you’re an aspiring swing, a performer navigating eight-show weeks, or just curious about the backstage world of musical theatre—this space is for you. ✨ 3 Takeaways from this Episode 1. What Swing Life is all about → why I created this podcast and who it’s here to support. 2. My story → from my first audition at 18 to 11+ years as a swing and dance captain. 3. What you can expect → practical swing strategies, behind-the-scenes stories, and conversations with industry pros. 🔗 Links + Resources Mentioned • 🎁 The Swing Starter Kit → Track up to 7 roles in rehearsals with ease • 🎧 Follow the podcast → Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube

In this episode of The Dive Podcast, we explore how emerging artists can build a professional online presence without feeling cringey. Learn how to showcase your authentic self, use social media as a career tool, and show up confidently online.What You’ll Learn:Why online presence matters in today’s industry.How to post authentically without overthinking.Tips for using social media to grow your career.Key Takeaways:If they can't see you, they can't consider you.Consistency doesn't mean constant.Your brand is about being YOU.🚀 Join the Performer's Mindset Hub for FREE: Free community with tools to support your journey. Click here to join now!💻 Check out Momentum 2.0 Program: Watch FREE From Graduate to Pro Masterclass & learn the 3 Steps To Becoming a Sustainable Musical Theatre Professional. Click here to watch now!

In this episode, Taylor chats with the incredible Asmara about her journey into the musical theatre industry, sharing insights, lessons, and moments of growth for aspiring artists.Here’s what you can expect in this episode:🎭 Training Foundations & Hard Work – Asmara reflects on her beginnings, training at PSA, and how a strong foundation shapes your career.🌟 The Reality of the Industry – From cruise ships to Wedding Singer and Miss Saigon, hear about her challenges and triumphs in auditions, training, and performing.💡 Lessons for Emerging Artists – Discover how authenticity, continuous learning, and filling your cup outside of theatre are keys to long-term success.🙌 Navigating Energy & Connection – Tips on managing yourself, building connections, and embracing growth through every experience.✨ Key Takeaway: Never stop learning, stay true to yourself, and enjoy the journey.🚀 Join the Performer's Mindset Hub for FREE: Free community with tools to support your journey. Click here to join now!💻 Check out Momentum 2.0 Program: Watch FREE From Graduate to Pro Masterclass & learn the 3 Steps To Becoming a Sustainable Musical Theatre Professional. Click here to watch now!

In this episode, Taylor dives into setting soulful goals, embracing 100% responsibility, and aligning with your core values for a transformative 2025!🎙 LIVE insights on reflecting, celebrating, and creating a clear, purpose-driven vision for the new year!Here’s what you can expect:The Power of E + R = O – Learn how focusing on your responses rather than external events can unlock self-awareness and growth.Energy Management for Artists – Discover the importance of preserving energy to thrive in high-pressure environments.Reflection & Celebration – Why looking back on your wins and challenges is key to setting meaningful intentions for the future.Emotional Alignment – How releasing limiting beliefs and tuning into your emotions helps you create goals that truly resonate.Soulful Success Strategies – Practical tips on creating goals rooted in your core values, identifying expanders, and celebrating progress authentically.✨ BONUS: Ready to set your 2025 goals with intention? Fill out the 2025 Goal-Setting Form here!✨ Buy The Book - How To Get From Where You Are To Where You Want To Be by Jack Canfield🚀 Join the Performer's Mindset Hub for FREE: Free community with tools to support your journey. Click here to join now!💻 Check out Momentum 2.0 Program: Watch FREE From Graduate to Pro Masterclass & learn the 3 Steps To Becoming a Sustainable Musical Theatre Professional. Click here to watch now!

In this episode, Taylor dives into creating routines, embracing imperfections, and finding your unique worth in the performing arts industry with Samantha!🎙️ LIVE insights from Samantha on building routines, pushing past comfort zones, and discovering self-validation!In this episode, here’s what you can expect:The Power of Focused Practice – Why less can be more and how targeted, intentional training beats over-practicing every time.Pushing Through Fear & Discomfort – Samantha shares how stepping out of your comfort zone unlocks growth, resilience, and unexpected passions.Embracing Imperfection – Why perfectionism holds you back and how committing to your uniqueness brings out your best performance.Community as a Catalyst – How building a strong support system with peers can motivate and accelerate your progress.Self-Worth in the Arts – Practical tips from Samantha and Taylor on self-validation and recognizing your value in an industry full of talented individuals.🌟 BONUS: Samantha shares her favorite "so-bad-it's-fun" Latin class and how it taught her to love the process of imperfection!🚀 Join the Performer's Mindset Hub for FREE: Free community with tools to support your journey. Click here to join now!💻 Check out Momentum 2.0 Program: Watch FREE From Graduate to Pro Masterclass & learn the 3 Steps To Becoming a Sustainable Musical Theatre Professional. Click here to watch now!

In this episode, Taylor introduces an exciting new resource to support performers on their journey!🎙️ LIVE inside Instagram & the newest mindset HUB for performer's!In this episode, here is what you can expect:The Performer's Mindset Hub Explained – What it is, how it works, and why it’s your new go-to community.The Power of Mindset & Community – How these two pillars can transform your career in the arts.Unlockable Tools & Resources – How to access breathwork, mindset challenges, yoga flows, and bonuses to support you in auditions and beyond.🚀 Join the Performer's Mindset Hub for FREE: Free community with tools to support your journey. Click here to join now!💻 Check out Momentum 2.0 Program: Watch FREE From Graduate to Pro Masterclass & learn the 3 Steps To Becoming a Sustainable Musical Theatre Professional. Click here to watch now!

Struggling with audition nerves, rejection, or finding your place in the industry? In this episode, we dive into Charlotte Page’s journey from aspiring performer to a swing in Sunset Boulevard. Learn how she overcame self-doubt, built resilience through rejection, and balanced the demands of musical theatre with self-care. Whether you're navigating your first auditions or dreaming of booking your first show, this episode is packed with relatable stories, mindset hacks, and actionable advice to help you thrive in your musical theatre career.🚀 Join the Performer's Mindset Hub for FREE: Free community with tools to support your journey. Click here to join now!💻 Check out Momentum 2.0 Program: Watch FREE From Graduate to Pro Masterclass & learn the 3 Steps To Becoming a Sustainable Musical Theatre Professional. Click here to watch now!

If you’ve ever stood outside an audition room with your heart racing, hands shaking, and thought to yourself, “Why am I so nervous? I’ve trained for years for this!”—then this episode is for you. In this episode, we’re breaking down the science behind nerves, the fight-or-flight response, and how you can rewire your brain through neuroplasticity to actually handle auditions better over time. Plus, I’m sharing some of my go-to breathwork techniques, visualization exercises, and mindset shifts that will help you stay grounded and centred in the audition room.So if you’re ready to stop letting nerves control your performance and start enjoying the audition process, this episode has everything you need. 🎶💃🔑 In this episode, you’ll learn: 1. Why we get nervous in auditions (and how to understand it instead of fear it). 2. Practical tools to manage nerves, including breathwork and grounding techniques. 3. How to shift your mindset from nervous to excited and confident. 4. Why visualization is a game-changer for audition success. 5. How to approach auditions as exciting opportunities, not scary tests!✨ Resources to help you even more: • Audition Prep Workbook: Get access to my step-by-step workbook that helps you map out your best-case audition scenario and build confidence from the inside out.  • Masterclass Alert: Coming soon! I’ll be hosting a masterclass on how to transition from graduate to full-time professional performer. Keep an eye out! 🎓🎭Let me know if you try any of these tools at your next audition or even in class! I LOVE hearing from you, so drop a comment or send me a DM about your experiences. We’re all in this together, and you’ve got everything you need to shine.You totally got this!—Taylor ✨🚀 Join the Performer's Mindset Hub for FREE: Free community with tools to support your journey. Click here to join now!💻 Check out Momentum 2.0 Program: Watch FREE From Graduate to Pro Masterclass & learn the 3 Steps To Becoming a Sustainable Musical Theatre Professional. Click here to watch now!

In this episode, I sit down with Hayden Baum to dive into the realities of life in musical theatre. We talk about how to embrace the journey rather than chasing outcomes, the importance of pacing yourself in this demanding career, and how to shift from comparison to confidence. Whether you’re just starting out or deep into audition season, this conversation will give you the tools to trust your unique path and enjoy every step of the way. Tune in for some real talk and helpful insights!Follow Hayden's Journey on Instagram HERE🚀 Join the Performer's Mindset Hub for FREE: Free community with tools to support your journey. Click here to join now!💻 Check out Momentum 2.0 Program: Watch FREE From Graduate to Pro Masterclass & learn the 3 Steps To Becoming a Sustainable Musical Theatre Professional. Click here to watch now!

Welcome back to the Dive Podcast! In this episode, I’m diving into a topic that’s been on my mind lately—burnout and how to reset amidst chaos. As I reflect on my recent busy schedule and birthday celebrations, I want to share some personal insights on managing overwhelm and nurturing your well-being.Highlight:I explore the signs of burnout and exhaustion and offer practical tips for resetting and reconnecting with yourself. From recognizing when you’re overcommitted to implementing quick and effective self-care practices, this episode is all about finding balance and prioritizing your health amidst a hectic schedule.What to expect:Insights into recognizing early signs of burnout and exhaustion.Practical tips for incorporating self-care into a busy schedule.A guided breathing exercise to help you return to a place of calm and peace.Strategies for maintaining balance and avoiding overwhelm.Personal reflections and actionable advice on prioritizing your well-being.SPOTIFY PLAYLIST THAT MIGHT HELP YOU: CLICK HERE🚀 Join the Performer's Mindset Hub for FREE: Free community with tools to support your journey. Click here to join now!💻 Check out Momentum 2.0 Program: Watch FREE From Graduate to Pro Masterclass & learn the 3 Steps To Becoming a Sustainable Musical Theatre Professional. Click here to watch now!

Want to stand out in every audition? In this episode, I break down the mindset shifts, confidence boosters, and authenticity hacks you need to make your mark in musical theatre. If you’re ready to crush self-doubt and elevate your performance game, this one’s for you!What You Will Learn in This Episode:•How to boost confidence and calm nerves before auditions•The power of authenticity and how to showcase your true self•Effective techniques for constructive post-audition reflection•Tips to overcome self-doubt and imposter syndrome•How to focus on steady, consistent growth for long-term success🚀 Join the Performer's Mindset Hub for FREE: Free community with tools to support your journey. Click here to join now!💻 Check out Momentum 2.0 Program: Watch FREE From Graduate to Pro Masterclass & learn the 3 Steps To Becoming a Sustainable Musical Theatre Professional. Click here to watch now!

In this episode of The Dive Podcast, Taylor shares insights on navigating life after full-time education or a structured routine. Broadcasting from Sydney, where he's working on Sunset Boulevard at the Sydney Opera House, Taylor dives into the mindset and steps necessary to successfully transition into this new phase of life.Highlight:Taylor emphasizes the importance of getting clear on what you desire most in life and how to embody the traits of your future self to achieve your goals. He discusses the significance of understanding your "why" and how this can drive you to take the necessary actions to realize your dreams.What to Expect:Tips on how to navigate the overwhelming feeling that can come after leaving full-time education or structured routines.Guidance on identifying and focusing on your top three goals.Insight into the power of embodying your future self now, and how this can propel you towards your goals.The importance of understanding your "why" and how it can fuel your motivation and actions.Practical advice on breaking down your goals into actionable steps, including how to use the exercise of identifying what you don’t want to clarify what you do want.🚀 Join the Performer's Mindset Hub for FREE: Free community with tools to support your journey. Click here to join now!💻 Check out Momentum 2.0 Program: Watch FREE From Graduate to Pro Masterclass & learn the 3 Steps To Becoming a Sustainable Musical Theatre Professional. Click here to watch now!

In this episode, We sit down AGAIN with Kim 🥰 an accomplished theater performer currently starring in Six the Musical. Kim reflects on her journey from dream roles like Anita and Catherine to the high-energy demands of Six. She shares personal insights on overcoming challenges, maintaining vocal and physical health, and the importance of self-compassion in a demanding career.Highlight: Kim discusses her recent roles' emotional and physical challenges, particularly in West Side Story and Six. She opens up about the tough decision to leave a dream role early due to exhaustion and how embracing self-kindness has been crucial to her performance growth.What to expect:Kim’s experience juggling intense roles and ✨maintaining her health✨Insight into the rigorous demands of performing in SixTips on handling audition nerves and managing expectationsThe importance of self-care and realistic goal-setting in a performing career🚀 Join the Performer's Mindset Hub for FREE: Free community with tools to support your journey. Click here to join now!💻 Check out Momentum 2.0 Program: Watch FREE From Graduate to Pro Masterclass & learn the 3 Steps To Becoming a Sustainable Musical Theatre Professional. Click here to watch now!

GRAB HERE YOUR WORKBOOK: ✨ 5 EMPOWERING STEPS TO AUDITION CLARITY & CONFIDENCE ✨In this episode, we dive into the often nerve-wracking world of audition preparation. Learn how to approach auditions with clarity, confidence, and a genuine sense of enjoyment. Taylor shares practical tips, mindset hacks, and actionable steps to help you feel more in control and excited about your audition experience.Highlight:Taylor's personal audition story and how she overcame the fear of the unknown.Introduction of the free "Ultimate Audition Prep Workbook" designed to guide aspiring musical theatre performers through the audition process.Key exercises to envision your best-case scenario, define clarity and confidence, and break down barriers holding you back.What to Expect:A breakdown of the workbook’s five essential steps, including envisioning success, defining clarity, and transforming actions into confidence.Insights on how to shift your mindset from focusing on the outcome to embracing the process.Practical advice on taking daily actionable steps to become the confident performer you aspire to be.This episode is packed with actionable advice and resources to help you show up as your best self in every audition room.Book Reference: Atomic Habits by James Clear🚀 Join the Performer's Mindset Hub for FREE: Free community with tools to support your journey. Click here to join now!💻 Check out Momentum 2.0 Program: Watch FREE From Graduate to Pro Masterclass & learn the 3 Steps To Becoming a Sustainable Musical Theatre Professional. Click here to watch now!

In this episode, we speak with Jacob, a young musical theatre performer, who shares his journey from a small dance school in Melbourne to starring in major shows like Mary Poppins and Groundhog Day. Highlights:Jacob's early dance training in Melbourne and the pivotal moment when his first dance school shut down.The unexpected audition and subsequent casting in "Mary Poppins," which set a high standard for Jacob's future endeavors.The challenging yet transformative experience of being let go from "Moulin Rouge!" and how Jacob used that setback to fuel his determination.Transitioning from "Moulin Rouge!" to "Groundhog Day" in a matter of weeks and the valuable lessons learned along the way.The importance of maintaining routines and continually working on skills, even while performing professionally.Insights into the Australian musical theater scene and the mindset needed for long-term success.What to Expect:Candid and motivational conversation with Jacob about his career journey.Behind-the-scenes anecdotes from his time in major musical productions.Practical advice for aspiring performers.Insights into maintaining routines and skill development.Encouragement for anyone pursuing their dreams in the performing arts.Valuable lessons learned from setbacks and triumphs in the industry.🚀 Join the Performer's Mindset Hub for FREE: Free community with tools to support your journey. Click here to join now!💻 Check out Momentum 2.0 Program: Watch FREE From Graduate to Pro Masterclass & learn the 3 Steps To Becoming a Sustainable Musical Theatre Professional. Click here to watch now!

Welcome back to another episode! Today, we're diving into how to pick up choreography faster, especially during auditions and classes. Whether you're new to dance or looking to sharpen your skills, this episode provides practical steps to boost your confidence and clarity. Thank you for being part of this amazing community!Highlights:Personal Story: Insights from my own experiences with picking up choreography and overcoming challenges.Mental Preparation: Strategies for boosting confidence and staying positive before auditions.Physical Preparation: Importance of warming up and getting your body ready for the demands of auditions.Observation Skills: How to keenly observe choreographers to capture style and nuances.Patterns and Sections: Breaking down choreography into manageable chunks for better retention.Awareness: Techniques for staying present and aware during auditions to enhance performance.Reflection: The power of reflecting on your audition experiences to identify strengths and areas for improvement.Feedback and Follow-Up: Importance of seeking feedback and how to use it constructively.What to Expect:Part 1: Preparation:Mental Preparation: Techniques for boosting your mindset and confidence.Physical Preparation: Effective warm-up routines to prepare your body for auditions.Part 2: Performance:Observation: Tips on how to watch and learn from the choreographer.Patterns and Sections: Methods for breaking down choreography into sections to make learning easier.Awareness: Importance of staying present and breathing techniques to enhance focus.Part 3: Reflection:Self-Review: How to reflect on your performance to identify what went well and what to improve.Feedback and Follow-Up: Tips on asking for and utilizing feedback to grow as a dancer.By the end of this episode, you'll have actionable steps to help you pick up choreography faster, ensuring you walk into auditions and classes more confidently and clearly. Enjoy the episode and thank you for tuning in!🚀 Join the Performer's Mindset Hub for FREE: Free community with tools to support your journey. Click here to join now!💻 Check out Momentum 2.0 Program: Watch FREE From Graduate to Pro Masterclass & learn the 3 Steps To Becoming a Sustainable Musical Theatre Professional. Click here to watch now!

Today, we chat with Geoffrey Castles, the amazing musical director currently working on Miss Saigon. Geoffrey shares his journey from playing the piano to becoming a musical director for big shows. He gives us great tips on preparing for auditions, especially for singing.Highlights:Geoffrey’s Journey: Learn how Geoffrey started playing the piano at age 10 and found his love for musicals.First Time Conducting: Hear about Geoffrey’s first time conducting Wicked and what he learned from that experience.Audition Tips: Get valuable advice on how to prepare for auditions, including being yourself, practicing well, and having a good set of songs ready.Vocal Training: Understand the difference between a singing teacher and a vocal coach, and why you need both.Handling Nerves: Discover ways to manage performance anxiety and stay calm during auditions.Touring Abroad: Geoffrey talks about the challenges and fun of touring internationally with Miss Saigon.What to Expect:This episode is full of useful tips from an expert in musical theatre. Geoffrey shares easy-to-follow advice on how to shine in auditions, keep learning, and take care of yourself.Connect with Geoffrey:Instagram: @geoffreycastlesFor more information and to send us questions, email us at info@thedive.com.au. Don’t forget to follow and subscribe for more fun and helpful episodes!Show Notes:Geoffrey’s background and journey in musicFirst conducting experience with WickedTips for preparing for auditionsThe roles of a singing teacher and a vocal coachManaging nerves and staying authenticInsights on touring with Miss SaigonGeoffrey’s contact information and social media handlesTune in to learn how to succeed in the musical theatre world!🚀 Join the Performer's Mindset Hub for FREE: Free community with tools to support your journey. Click here to join now!💻 Check out Momentum 2.0 Program: Watch FREE From Graduate to Pro Masterclass & learn the 3 Steps To Becoming a Sustainable Musical Theatre Professional. Click here to watch now!

What if embracing failure could be your secret weapon in musical theatre? Join me, Taylor, as I share how my journaling practices have reshaped my approach to auditions and performances. In this episode, we explore ways to build unshakable confidence by: Viewing ourselves as structures needing strong foundationsGaining clarity and managing daily stressorsLetting go of the myth of perfectionTrusting yourself and persisting through setbacks Expect to learn about: The importance of resilience and a growth mindsetHow to convert thoughts into actions and resultsPractical steps like reflecting on performances and journaling insightsTurning setbacks into stepping stones toward improvement Actionable steps for building confidence: Create a list of goals and short affirmationsCelebrate others and create a supportive environmentAttract opportunities for personal growth Plus, I’ll introduce the Momentum program, designed to boost your confidence significantly. Stay tuned for our next episode featuring a special guest who will share strategies for peak performance on stage. I wish you a week filled with love and anticipation! 🚀 Join the Performer's Mindset Hub for FREE: Free community with tools to support your journey. Click here to join now!💻 Check out Momentum 2.0 Program: Watch FREE From Graduate to Pro Masterclass & learn the 3 Steps To Becoming a Sustainable Musical Theatre Professional. Click here to watch now!

Have you ever been propelled into a new chapter of life by a single phone call? Join us as we chat with the incredible Mel, who shares her transformative journey from Adelaide to Melbourne, sparked by a pivotal call from Todd Patrick. Mel opens up about her intensive year of training at PSA, the guidance of exceptional teachers, and the joy of being part of a tight-knit, dedicated group. Her story underscores the importance of following your heart, staying true to yourself, and the constant reinvention needed to thrive in the performing arts.Reflecting on our own career paths, we explore the rollercoaster of success and rejection in the performing arts industry. From the fortune of early career breaks to the emotional toll of more frequent rejections, we share personal anecdotes on how these experiences pushed us to reinvent ourselves continually. We discuss the lessons learned from every role and gig, expected or not, and how expanding our skills to include singing and acting has shaped our artistic journey.This episode is a heartfelt exploration of embracing versatility and stepping out of comfort zones. We highlight the importance of perseverance, the support of mentors and peers, and maintaining a sense of joy and reinvention through music and movement. Imagine dancing through the streets with headphones on, capturing that dreamlike essence in your everyday life. Whether you're a seasoned performer or just starting out, this conversation is filled with inspiration and the magic of following your heart in the performing arts.🚀 Join the Performer's Mindset Hub for FREE: Free community with tools to support your journey. Click here to join now!💻 Check out Momentum 2.0 Program: Watch FREE From Graduate to Pro Masterclass & learn the 3 Steps To Becoming a Sustainable Musical Theatre Professional. Click here to watch now!

Can you imagine a world where your passion for performing arts connects you with a global community of like-minded individuals? As we kick off season two of the Dive podcast, we're thrilled to reflect on six months of exceptional growth and community support. From a heartwarming chat with my mum that sparked the idea, to celebrating 4,549 downloads across 40 countries and 178 cities—our journey has been nothing short of inspiring. Join me as I recap some of the most insightful conversations we've had with industry professionals, tailored to meet the unique challenges faced by emerging musical theatre performers. And as we look ahead, your voice matters more than ever; share your thoughts on topics and guests you want to hear, ensuring that this podcast remains a vital resource for your artistic journey.But that’s not all! This season, we're doubling down on the importance of community interaction.Imagine transforming from a passive listener to an active participant in this vibrant space, where your engagement fuels our collective growth. I’m committed to supporting each of you through every step of your performing arts journey, and I couldn’t be more excited about what’s to come. Stay tuned for some exciting changes designed to make your experience even more user-friendly and impactful. Welcome to an exciting new chapter with the Dive podcast—let's make it unforgettable!🚀 Join the Performer's Mindset Hub for FREE: Free community with tools to support your journey. Click here to join now!💻 Check out Momentum 2.0 Program: Watch FREE From Graduate to Pro Masterclass & learn the 3 Steps To Becoming a Sustainable Musical Theatre Professional. Click here to watch now!