It was so fun to reconnect with Matthew Palfenier for episode 133, part six of our Belhaven Dance Alumni series! We reminisce about our time at Belhaven University and the sense of camaraderie that was built during that season. Matthew and I explore his journey from early foundations in the arts, to his time at Belhaven, to becoming a professional dancer and educator. He shares about the pressure cooker experience of the professional dance world, and the importance of self-reflection in the face of burnout. We also chat about the power of community and mentorship, especially during times of uncertainty.

Matthew gives us insight into his transition from performing to teaching, both the challenges and rewards of learning a new skill set. I love how Matthew values passing on knowledge to the next generation and guiding his students as they learn to embrace their unique path as an artist. He also touches on the significance of choreography as a door to conversation and building deeper connections with others.

Several other Belhaven Dance Alumni have shared their stories on the podcast over the years, so we've gathered all the episodes together in a playlist for you! Check out the ⁠⁠⁠⁠playlist on Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠!

. . . . .

Welcome to The Creative Impact Podcast, where you will find encouragement to live out your calling as an artist.

. . . . .

Watch this episode on YouTube! Check out our YouTube Channel and be sure to like and subscribe!

⁠http://www.youtube.com/@creativeimpactpodcast⁠

Join our Patreon community for behind-the-scenes and bonus content!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/creativeimpactpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Find the show notes and more at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://creativeimpactpodcast.com/episode-133/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Some topics we chat about in today's episode include:

Belhaven University, dance, pandemic impact, teaching, choreography, arts community, personal growth, mentorship, dance education, artistic journey, burnout, self-reflection, community, choreography, artistic perspective, faith-based art, emerging artists

. . . . .

Let's Connect!

Instagram & Facebook:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@creativeimpactpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

. . . . .

The podcast music was produced by Michael Cash.