Four-time Emmy award-winning host of Bare Feet, Mickela Mallozzi (@travelbarefeet) joins CREATOR: The Podcast to discuss building an international travel show through the universal language of dance. Host Ross Borden explores her journey from classically trained dancer to independent PBS producer, diving into the challenges of self-funding 8 seasons of a travel show, navigating cultural appreciation versus appropriation, and building authentic relationships with communities worldwide. Mickela offers behind-the-scenes insights about working with tourism boards and creating respectful cultural exchanges, plus practical advice on maintaining artistic integrity while securing sponsorships. Whether you're an aspiring content creator or simply interested in authentic travel storytelling, this conversation delivers valuable perspective on turning passion into sustainable creative careers.

To learn more about CREATOR: The Podcast, visit creatorthepodcast.com

00:00 - Introduction to Mickela Mallozzi

00:28 - Host Introduction and Show Overview

01:34 - From Classical Dance to Travel Content Creation

02:39 - Dancing with Strangers: Building Connections Through Movement

04:16 - Finding Dancers: Studios vs. Street Festivals

05:56 - Making Dance Accessible Across Cultures

07:12 - 40 Countries and Returning to Favorites

08:19 - Favorite Places to Dance: New Zealand and the Haka

11:15 - Cultural Appreciation vs. Cultural Appropriation

15:04 - From Solo Creator to Full TV Production

15:29 - Building the Show: From Pilot to PBS

18:37 - Why PBS Was the Perfect Platform

20:26 - Impact of PBS Defunding on Independent Creators

24:11 - Self-Funding a TV Show: Sponsors and Partnerships

26:13 - PBS Advertising Rules and Brand Partnerships

27:22 - Distribution: Amazon Prime and Go Traveler

29:25 - Season 8 Preview: Maori, Taiwan, and Cuba

30:37 - Three Countries Question: Ireland, Italy, and New York

32:21 - Where to Watch and Follow Bare Feet

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