Trigger Warning: This episode discusses panic disorder, which may be distressing for some listeners.

Season Two

Ep:14

I’m happy to share that I have lived panic disorder–free for over 22 years and continue to enjoy a high-performance life supported by meditation, health, and wellbeing practices in my everyday world. 

Over more than two decades of leading my own dance studio, I stepped into my strength and power as a leader; experience that now informs my work as a high-performance mindset coach for dancers and mentor in leadership to educators and parents helping strengthen confidence, emotional awareness, and sustainable success. I also work as an international dance adjudicator.

In this episode, I reflect on last week’s conversation with trauma integration specialist Kellie Rhea about coercive control in the dance industry. I respond to thoughtful questions about my own healing journey, sharing how I navigated panic disorder, the transition from stage to teaching, and the importance of resilience, self-worth, and emotional safety in dance. I also discuss perfectionism, anxiety, and how teachers and parents can create open, supportive dialogue that helps dancers thrive.

After Note: 'In sharing my story, it's important to find the right support for you. For me that meant combining professional guidance with a psychotherapist who had lived through similar experiences and my training in Human Behaviour and somatic practices'. 

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Disclaimer: The Dance Real Podcast is a space for open, honest conversations rooted in real-life experiences within the dance world. What I share—and what my guests share—is based on personal perspective, not professional advice. If you’re seeking support for your mental health, legal matters, or business decisions, I encourage you to speak with a qualified professional. The views expressed by guests are their own and don’t always reflect mine. Any references to people, places, or situations are shared with respect and the intent to spark reflection, learning, and conversation—not to harm or misrepresent. By engaging with this content, you acknowledge and agree that the host, guests, and Dance Real Podcast are not liable for any decisions made based on the information provided.