'Designing the Ultimate Dance Curriculum'In this episode, Gui and I offer a concise guide to designing an effective dance curriculum, focusing on concepts and mastery over rigid move lists.We outline core goals for beginners: Timing, Weight Transfer, and Body Awareness (proprioception). We prioritize Horizontal Learning—deepening understanding of existing moves through combinations and quality of movement—over quickly teaching new patterns. We argue that the transition between known moves is the most significant challenge.For curriculum structure, we advise teachers to be adaptable, ready to adjust based on student progress rather than sticking rigidly to a plan. We emphasize setting clear minimum requirements for completing each level (including skills beyond just patterns) to ensure students are truly prepared.We conclude by reminding listeners that a student's true level is determined by their mastery of concepts, not duration or attendance. A strong curriculum ensures every student is prepared for the next stage, making the overall community safer and more cohesive.__What core concept or technique do you believe most students struggle to master before moving to the next level? Share your thoughts and join the conversation!
Saying 'Yes' and 'No' in Social DancingIn this episode, Gui and I tackle the highly sensitive and personal topic of social dance invitations. We confront the biggest anxiety for many dancers: when to say 'yes' and when to say 'no' without feeling guilt.We explain that there is no universal "right" or "wrong" answer. Instead, we encourage dancers to tune into their internal "battery," noting that the decision has more to do with the energy and vibe of a potential partner than their skill level.The episode offers practical advice on navigating these social situations:The "Yes/No" Dilemma: We admit that saying 'no' is often difficult, but we share personal protocols to manage the situation, like saying, "I'll dance later" to avoid making someone feel singled out.The Power of Conversation: I share a powerful story of how a conversation off the dance floor completely transformed a challenging dynamic with a partner. We argue that building a connection through conversation is a valuable tool.The Small Town Mentality: We encourage dancers to adopt a "small town" mentality, where every action has an impact. We remind listeners that a single dance can make the difference between someone staying in the community or leaving it.Ultimately, this episode is a plea for empathy and awareness. We urge dancers to be kind to one another, use their words to connect, and seek to help those who are struggling._____________When do you feel most comfortable or uncomfortable saying 'yes' or 'no' on the dance floor? What do you believe is the most difficult aspect of this social dilemma? Share your thoughts and join the conversation!
The Qualities of a Great Dance TeacherIn this highly requested episode, Alisson Sandi and Gui Prada delve into what truly makes a great dance teacher. They explore this question from three perspectives: that of the dancer, the teacher, and the community leader.-- From a Dancer's PerspectiveDancers are looking for a teacher who can provide clear guidance from scratch and instill a solid understanding of the fundamentals. Beyond just technical skills, they value a teacher with excellent communication skills who can make them feel good and speak at their level. The hosts emphasize that the best teachers are "forever students"—always open, humble, and curious, and they aren't afraid to say "I don't know" in class. They also highlight the power of storytelling, where a teacher can connect dance to life, making the learning experience more engaging and inspiring.-- From a Teacher's PerspectiveA great teacher is highly adaptable, willing to pivot their lesson plan based on the students' needs and feedback rather than rigidly sticking to a pre-planned script. They are engaged in every student's learning process, not just delivering a pre-recorded lecture. The hosts also provide practical advice for new and experienced teachers alike:Music is key: Use apps like AnyTune Pro or Virtual DJ to control tempo and create seamless, flowing music sets.Be prepared: Have a "survival kit" with adapters, chargers, and a backup speaker.Personalize feedback: In a mixed-level class, give specific, personalized tips to more advanced students to keep them engaged.-- From a Community Leader's PerspectiveFor a community leader or organizer, a great teacher is someone who is a genuine part of the community, not just a guest instructor. They're present at socials, workshops, and other events, and they show a genuine interest in the local community's dynamics. The hosts stress that a teacher's character is just as important as their dance skill. They advise organizers to pay close attention to a potential teacher's behavior—how they treat people, whether they are respectful, and if their interactions are warm and welcoming or merely transactional. This holistic view ensures the teacher contributes positively to the community's culture and not just its dance floor.-What do you believe is the single most important quality in a great dance teacher? Share your thoughts and join the conversation!
The Art of Being a 'Great Contributor'In this impactful episode, Alisson Sandi and Gui Prada, joined by personal transformation coach Nelly Caldeira, delve into what it truly means to be a great contributor to the dance community. This isn't just about dance skills, but a deeper conversation about intention, purpose, and personal well-being.The hosts begin by defining their own "whys" for contributing, which center on connection, human interaction, and making others' lives better. Nelly introduces a powerful concept: recognizing the value in the "nos" you give. She argues that by selectively choosing what you don't do (like Alisson stepping back from extensive travel and DJing), you free up energy to excel in the things you truly care about.The discussion pivots to the pressures faced by dancers and professionals alike. Nelly and Gui lament the "autopilot" mode many fall into, believing they should do everything—from teaching to DJing to organizing—to be relevant. Nelly shares a crucial insight: you can be a great contributor by stopping to contribute in the same way everyone else does. She stresses that true value lies in quality and unique offerings, not in quantity or conforming to a one-size-fits-all model.Alisson shares his personal journey of burnout, revealing how he found a renewed sense of purpose by reconnecting with his "why" and learning to say "yes" only when he was saying "yes" to himself first. Nelly adds that this alignment not only prevents burnout but also increases personal value, as people are drawn to authenticity and a clear sense of purpose.The episode concludes with a profound message from Nelly: the most powerful combination for a healthy dance life is gratitude and forgiveness. This practice allows you to learn from mistakes without shame, making space for greater self-awareness and personal growth. The hosts emphasize that contributing to the community is a privilege, and the most valuable contribution is a dancer who is present, purposeful, and happy in their own journey.
'Intimacy, Sensuality, and the Confusing 'High' of Dance'In a highly-anticipated episode, Alisson Sandi and Gui Prada welcome personal transformation coach Nelly Caldeira to unpack the complex topic of intimacy and sensuality in dance. This episode is a crucial guide for dancers seeking to understand these powerful, and often confusing, energies.Nelly redefines intimacy as a space of vulnerability where one feels seen and acknowledged, emphasizing it's a quality of connection, not a specific move. She describes how it manifests as a feeling of synchronicity where leading and following dissolve and dancers become "co-creators." The conversation delves into differentiating this from sensuality, which Nelly describes as a focused, "addictive" pleasure tied to specific parts of the body.The hosts explore the unique challenges of the dance world, where partner dancing can create a physiological "high" of feel-good hormones. This, Nelly warns, can lead to a state of confusion that makes it difficult to distinguish emotions or make rational decisions. She argues that the most effective way to navigate this is to normalize not knowing and to do the difficult work of self-awareness off the dance floor, through daily practice.The episode offers powerful advice on navigating these intense connections:Acknowledge and Process: Nelly shares a personal story of finding catharsis on the dance floor by allowing herself to feel sadness, which eventually transformed into a sense of safety and pleasure.Seek Closure: She recommends intentional communication outside of the social to process the energy of a dance, offering a sense of closure that prevents confusion from festering.Set Boundaries: Nelly gives a practical example of getting multiple "yeses" to confirm consent, and Alisson shares his own disciplined practice of taking time to make major life decisions.Have you ever felt a confusing 'high' from dancing? What is one strategy you use to manage your emotions and boundaries on the dance floor? Share your thoughts and join the conversation!
'The Reality Check'In this candid episode, Alisson Sandi and Gui Prada deliver a powerful "reality check" for dancers who say they want to improve but whose actions tell a different story. They expose the contradiction between wanting to be a great dancer and the behaviors that sabotage that very goal.They begin with a simple analogy: you can't run a marathon by only reading about it. The hosts argue that many dancers are caught in this trap, "talking the talk" without "walking the walk." This is especially evident in a dancer's ability to adapt, a skill many say they want but struggle to achieve in practice.Gui explains that this struggle often stems from a "fear of the silence"—an aversion to moments of pause or subtle movement where true connection can be built. He shares an anecdote about a leader in class who prioritized completing a movement over adapting to a partner's clear signals of non-compliance, highlighting how a rigid mindset can hinder growth.Alisson introduces the concept of "100/100" dancing, where both partners bring their full selves to the dance, creating a dynamic conversation rather than a one-sided lecture. He shares his personal journey of learning to prioritize his own happiness in a dance, a crucial step for a sustainable and joyful experience.The hosts offer actionable advice for dancers seeking to bridge the gap between their goals and their reality:Ask for Feedback: Overcome the fear of rejection and ask dance partners for specific, constructive feedback on what they enjoyed.Question Your Justifications: Be mindful of when you're justifying your actions to avoid trying a new technique. This "justification" is often a powerful limiting force.Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how your partner's body responds and adapt accordingly. A dancer who is "not happy" with your moves may not tell you verbally, but their body will.This episode is a call to honesty, encouraging dancers to reflect on their own habits and commit to the small, consistent actions that lead to big results.________Do you ever find your actions contradicting your dance goals? How do you overcome the mindset that holds you back? Share your thoughts and join the conversation!
The 'Right and Wrong' of TechniqueIn this episode, Alisson Sandi and Gui Prada revisit their beginner's curriculum, responding to questions about right vs. wrong technique and the seemingly countless variations of Zouk movements. They argue that in an art form like Zouk, "right" and "wrong" are not absolute, but depend on context, goal, and comfort.The hosts reflect on Zouk's evolution, noting how what was once considered good technique 15 years ago is now seen as physically demanding or unsafe. They advocate for a mindset that views technique as a tool that is always evolving, rather than a rigid set of rules. For them, a good technique is one that is safe, efficient, and inclusive for the dancer's and partner's level of experience.A key point of the discussion revolves around the importance of prioritizing what a student needs. For beginners, they stress focusing on comfort, rhythm, and flow, and layering more complex technical details as the student progresses. This approach, they argue, is key to retention and creating an inclusive community where everyone can feel successful from the start.Alisson and Gui also urge dancers to stay open and curious. They share personal anecdotes of initially rejecting a certain technique only to find it worked beautifully when they tried it with an open mind. They challenge workshop-hoppers to commit to a class, see it through, and understand that valuable lessons can be learned even from approaches they may not initially agree with.What do you consider a "wrong" technique in dance, and what makes it so? Share your thoughts and join the conversation!The episode's core message is to be a lifelong student, constantly questioning, and trying new things. This mindset not only improves your dancing but also helps you connect with a wider range of partners and ultimately builds a more cohesive and welcoming dance community.
'The Art of Adaptability in Social Dancing'How can you be everything your dance partner desires? Alisson Sandi and Gui Prada tackle this intriguing question from a recent Q&A, diving into the art of adaptability in social dancing.Gui reveals his "ease of motion" process, focusing on subtle physical cues to gauge a partner's comfort and preference, rather than mind-reading. Alisson echoes this, emphasizing an ongoing "conversation" of reactions to understand what a partner doesn't want, constantly listening for negative feedback.The hosts delve into the societal issue of lack of bodily awareness, where dancers may unconsciously push partners beyond their comfort zones. They highlight the importance of leaders focusing on reducing effort and building a dance with their partner, rather than just performing movements for them. Alisson shares a recent class exercise where students gained "fun" by focusing on their own body's desires in the dance, emphasizing that pleasing oneself first leads to better connection.The episode explores the vulnerability of true connection, especially through eye contact, revealing how shyness often stems from discomfort with showing one's inner self. It also touches on the tricky balance of managing your own energy at socials: knowing when to conserve, when to seek out trusted partners for a "recharge," and the social dilemma of saying "no" to some while saying "yes" to others who match your current energy.---Do you prioritize what your partner wants, or what your body needs when social dancing? How do you navigate the unspoken expectations on the dance floor? Share your thoughts and join the conversation!
'Dance Epiphanies - Moments That Changed Everything'Have you ever experienced a sudden "Aha!" moment that completely transformed your dancing? In this imaginative episode, Alisson Sandi and Gui Prada share their most profound "dance epiphanies" – those unexpected breakthroughs that fundamentally shifted their understanding and connection to movement.Gui recounts his earliest epiphany in Buenos Aires, where a dance with an older woman revealed the effortless fluidity of Tango, proving that a great dance has "nothing to do with the body necessarily, with the age, with the shape, with the height." Alisson shares his own Tango revelation in Australia, discovering a new level of bodily sensitivity and how every subtle movement communicates to a partner. They both emphasize that these kinesthetic experiences, where something is truly "felt, not just understood," leave a lasting mark.The conversation then explores other pivotal moments, including Alisson's Ballroom experience, which taught him the radical concept of not "babying" her follower and the importance of a leader's self-responsibility. This led him to embrace constant adaptability in his social dancing, aiming to meet followers' needs for space or presence. Gui reflects on the blessing of dancing with strong followers early in his journey, who elevated his understanding of connection.The hosts delve into Zouk-specific insights, including Gui's realization that one can excel in a single aspect of Zouk (like head movements) while still struggling with basics, and Alisson's journey to accept the dance's diverse interpretations despite contradictory feedback.This episode encourages listeners to embrace a mindset of continuous learning, take that "first step" with new teachers or partners, and remain open to profound "epiphanic moments" that redefine their dance journey with @everyone.
'Authenticity, Nationality, & Pay in Dance'In this candid episode, Alisson Sandi and Gui Prada challenge the notion that a dance teacher's nationality dictates their authenticity, skill, or pay. They tackle the common bias that being from Zouk's "motherland" automatically makes one a better teacher.Both hosts, having unique teaching careers primarily outside Brazil, share insights on why local teachers are often more effective for beginners. They critically examine the "perceived authority" granted by nationality, which can inflate prices and overshadow the dedication of non-Brazilian instructors.The discussion delves into the economics of event organizing, where perceived fame can unfortunately influence hiring over true teaching quality. However, Alisson and Gui emphasize that hard work, dedication, and adaptability are the real markers of a valuable teacher. They advocate for organizers to diversify lineups and invest in local communities, fostering a "homemade meal" of consistent, quality instruction over fleeting trends.What are your thoughts on authenticity in dance? Have you experienced situations where nationality seemed to influence perception or opportunities? Share your reflections and join the conversation!
'Navigating Behavioral Issues & Trust in the Community'Alisson Sandi and Gui Prada are joined by returning guest Laura Riva to tackle the complex and sensitive topic of behavioral issues within the Zouk community. This episode provides a vital framework for understanding how to navigate misconduct, both inside and outside the dance scene.The discussion opens with a recent, severe case, exploring why such an external incident deeply affected the Zouk community. Laura, known for her measured perspective, offers crucial insights for event organizers on managing crisis when a principal is involved, emphasizing the need for safeguards and a value-first approach.The hosts delve into the difficult reality of public perception, where emotional reactions can overshadow rational judgment, especially when trust is broken. They confront the "police report or no police report" debate, arguing it's often a "scapegoat" to avoid deeper investigation. Laura, drawing on her legal background, stresses the importance of thorough investigation and distinguishing between minor transgressions and severe risks.The episode also examines the "parasocial relationships" common in dance, where fans feel they know artists personally, influencing reactions to misconduct. They discuss the societal tendency to excuse "geniuses" while condemning others.Crucially, Laura emphasizes the perpetrator's ownership and willingness for true self-reflection as key to potential rehabilitation, distinguishing it from a desire to simply "return to normal." The conversation concludes by stressing the collective responsibility to respond constructively, heal wounds, and prioritize community well-being over social media validation or personal biases. Laura's insights offer a powerful call for empathy, nuance, and responsible leadership in handling these challenging situations.
'Teacher Burnout & Longevity in Dance'In this episode, Alisson Sandi and Gui Prada, joined by guest Raven Benko, explore the critical topic of teacher burnout and longevity in the dance community. They discuss how the transition from dancer to teacher profoundly changes one's relationship with dance, introducing pressures like constant availability and managing student expectations.Raven shares her challenges balancing a full-time job with teaching, often depleting her energy for social dancing. Gui offers the strategy of "compartmentalization," while Alisson emphasizes setting strong boundaries to protect personal well-being and ensure 100% presence when teaching.The hosts also highlight the unique pressures faced by female teachers, including safety concerns and the need to be conscious role models. They explain how these factors can diminish a teacher's personal freedom on the dance floor.Ultimately, the episode stresses that self-care, clear boundaries, and managing expectations are crucial for a sustainable and joyful career in dance instruction.
'Expectations vs. Reality - The Dance Teacher's Journey'Join Alisson Sandi and Gui Prada for their 40th episode, featuring special guest Raven Benko, as they pull back the curtain on becoming a dance teacher. This episode is a must-listen for anyone considering teaching, or those curious about the realities behind the glamour.Raven, a seasoned Zouk instructor who balances teaching with another career, shares her unique journey, from flying weekly to teach in different cities (like Seattle to Denver!) to building curricula. The conversation quickly dives into a core truth: teaching basics is incredibly hard, emotionally taxing, and often underestimated. They highlight the challenge of motivating beginners, dealing with "downloading" students, and accepting that some won't stay.The hosts emphasize the vital importance of learning the opposite dance role for comprehensive teaching, advocating it as "mandatory" for instructors. They distinguish between the "fun, easier" classes for advanced, already-addicted students versus the demanding work of community-building local teachers, who must constantly inspire and guide newcomers.Raven reveals how teaching transformed her own relationship with dance, forcing her to refine her technique and find new joy in observing student progress, even after a severe injury. They discuss the "problem-solving aspect" of adapting to diverse student bodies and the subtle art of "sneaking" essential foundational knowledge into classes, even if it means calling it "Toalha."Discover the profound personal changes that come with teaching, from increased self-awareness to the surprising shift in how you experience social dancing. Learn why patience, empathy, and a deep love for helping people are non-negotiable for teachers, and get practical advice on how to prepare for the rewarding, yet challenging, realities of dance instruction.
'Trends vs. Tradition – What's "Cool" in Zouk?'Alisson Sandi and Gui Prada debate what's truly "cool" in Zouk: the flashy trends or the comforting fundamentals? They discuss Gui's focus on Sacadas and the "dark side" and Alisson's deep dive into Lambada's influence and the "Clock" concept for head movements.The hosts delve into Zouk's "fashion cycles," recalling past popular moves like Avião, Pretzels, and the ubiquitous Toalha, noting their complexity often makes them less accessible for social dancing. They champion the "yummy, chill stuff" like Soltinhos and Viradinhas for their universal comfort and connection.A fascinating tangent explores rhythm displacement, with Alisson's theory that Hustle dancers grasp it faster than many Zoukers due to varying timing training. They also highlight the Pião as the ultimate "Joker card" for resetting in any dance dilemma.Ultimately, the episode emphasizes balancing trendy challenges with solid basics to ensure Zouk remains inclusive and enjoyable for everyone.
'Sexual Energy: The Blurry Lines in Partner Dance'Get ready for a candid and crucial conversation on Zouk Nerds! Hosts Alisson Sandi and Gui Prada tackle a "touchy" and often misunderstood topic: sexual energy in partner dance. They bravely dissect the immediate discomfort and misinterpretations that arise, emphasizing that this isn't about sexual intent, but a natural, multifaceted human connection.Gui, drawing on his extensive knowledge of human connection, redefines sexual energy as "vital energy" or "life force"—the fundamental energy that keeps us alive and fuels our senses in every interaction. They explore how this energy is constantly at play on the dance floor, from gentle connection to fiery movement, involving touch, sight, smell, and sound.The episode addresses the critical issue of misunderstanding and boundary crossing, stressing that fear often leads dancers to tense up and avoid genuine connection. They share powerful anecdotes, like a dance so intense it felt like a "rollercoaster" yet ended with a simple "hi" the next day, highlighting the difference between a powerful energetic exchange and romantic interest.A key revelation comes from a workshop breaking down sexual energy into five uses beyond procreation and physical pleasure: inspiration, creativity, and healing/personal transformation. The hosts explain how this energy is channeled daily in dance to create new movements, inspire artistic growth, and even serve as a personal catalyst, as it did for Gui when he started Zouk.'Sexual Energy: The Blurry Lines in Partner Dance'Alisson opens up about his own past struggles as a teacher, fearing misinterpretation and blocking natural connections. They emphasize that the goal isn't to normalize inappropriate behavior, but to normalize understanding and open communication so dancers can differentiate feelings, manage their energy, and build a safer, healthier community.This episode is a profound conversation starter, encouraging you to rethink your perceptions and explore the deeper layers of connection in dance.
'Zouk & Scroll: How Social Media Shapes Our Dance'Are you addicted to Zouk demos on your phone? Does online validation affect how you feel on the dance floor? This episode of Zouk Nerds is for you. Hosts Alisson Sandi and Gui Prada expose the profound ways social media is transforming the Brazilian Zouk community, for better and for worse. Â They reveal how the quest for likes and views creates "unreal perceptions" of relevance and discuss the anxiety dancers face if they're not constantly posting. The conversation tackles the rise of the "internationally famous dancer" vs. the experienced local teacher, and how the "business of attention" is influencing event lineups.Alisson and Gui break down how algorithms prioritize flash over substance, warning against the "sugar high" of viral trends compared to the essential "vegetables" of foundational training and connecting with the dance's roots. They share why they personally seek out older, less-seen content and highlight how even dance demonstrations have evolved from teaching tools to marketing performances on the "mobile phone stage."Discover the enduring power of word of mouth and personal connection in an era dominated by algorithms. This episode is a critical look at navigating the modern dance world consciously, encouraging you to take control of your influences and prioritize what truly matters for your growth and the health of the community. Watch this episode to understand the hidden forces shaping your Zouk journey!
'Unmasking the Dance: The Controversial Truth About Flow and Connection'In this episode of 'Zouk Nerds', hosts Alisson Sandi and Gui Prada delve into the concept of Neuro Coupling in social dancing. They discuss how dance partners, musicians, and others can sync up, creating a deeply connected experience where both partners feel as if they become one. Inspired by a question from their Facebook group, they explore the research behind this phenomenon, share personal stories, and offer insights into achieving this state of flow. Key resolutions include the importance of trust, empathy, and mental health in reaching Neuro Coupling. They highlight how being present and tuning into body signals can enhance the dance experience. Both hosts recount personal anecdotes where music acted as a catalyst for deeper connection, and they emphasize the potential of partner dancing to heal and regulate the nervous system. Finally, they encourage listeners to practice being observant of their own and their partner's body language and to engage in reflective conversations post-dance to better understand these experiences, ultimately enhancing their social dancing connections.
'Are Jack and Jill Competitions Destroying Social Dancing?'In this episode of Zouk Nerds, hosts Alisson Sandi and Gui Prada delve into the impacts of Jack and Jill dance competitions on personal growth, social dancing, and the dance community at large. They start by sharing their personal experiences, with Gui initially resisting Jack and Jill competitions before embracing them, and Alisson being involved since their inception. The hosts discuss the potential benefits of competitions for setting personal milestones and goals, but they also caution against equating competition success with overall dance ability. They emphasize the importance of social dancing skills and community engagement, citing examples from the DC and Taipei dance communities. The episode also explains the Jack and Jill scoring system to clear up common misconceptions. Ultimately, the hosts advocate for a balanced approach where competitions are one of many ways to enjoy and grow in dance, urging dancers to focus on what truly makes them happy. They conclude by encouraging listeners to seek guidance and support in their dance journey, ensuring they remain aligned with their personal dance goals and well-being.
'Is Technique Ruining Your Dancing and Learning Joy?'In this provocative episode of Zouk Nerds, hosts Alisson Sandi and Gui Prada delve deep into the controversial topic of whether technique might be ruining your dance. They question the traditional emphasis on technical perfection versus the adaptability and feeling essential in social dancing. Key topics include distinguishing between precision and technicality, understanding the purpose of technique, and how technique can either enhance or hinder your dance progression. The episode explores quotes from influential figures like Isadora Duncan, Elliott Erwitt, and Bruce Lee, questioning if a rigid focus on technique could stifle creativity and connection. The hosts also provide vivid analogies and real-life examples, discuss the role of adaptability in dancing, and the importance of finding the organic feeling in movements rather than just executing them. Tune in to challenge your preconceived notions about dance technique and discover a more balanced approach to learning and teaching dance.
'How Your Past Training Could Be Holding You Back in Zouk'In this episode of Zouk Nerds, Alisson Sandi and Gui Prada explore the impact of learning other dance styles on mastering Brazilian Zouk. They discuss how different backgrounds, such as ballroom, salsa, bachata, west coast swing, and hustle, can both aid and challenge students in their Zouk journey. Emphasizing the importance of approaching dance as a beginner and focusing on internalizing movements rather than just executing them, they offer insights into understanding the nuances specific to Brazilian Zouk.They also share personal anecdotes and experiences from teaching various students, explaining how muscle memory from other styles can be both a benefit and a hindrance. The episode provides practical advice for dancers transitioning from other genres and underscores the value of continuous, open-minded learning.