Episodes

In this episode of Passion for Dance, Dr. Chelsea tackles the pervasive issue of favoritism in dance studios and teams. She explains what favoritism looks like, why it happens, and how it impacts dancers emotionally and socially. Dr. Chelsea also shares actionable strategies to mitigate favoritism, including advice for teachers on creating a fair and inclusive environment, tips for dancers on how to handle perceived favoritism and seek constructive feedback, and guidance for parents on supportin...

In this episode of Passion for Dance, Dr. Chelsea interviews Rhee Gold, an esteemed dance professional with over four decades of experience. Rhee shares his journey, emphasizing the importance of mental toughness, resilience, and staying true to one’s values in the dance industry. He discusses the evolution of his career, the significance of community and passion, and offers practical advice for dance studio owners and teachers on building a successful dance business. The conversation also touch...

In this episode of Passion for Dance, Dr. Chelsea discusses the common issue of performance slumps in dancers. She explores the causes, including physical, environmental, and psychological factors, and provides evidence-based strategies for overcoming them. Dr. Chelsea emphasizes the importance of realistic goal setting, maintaining an optimistic mindset, utilizing social support, and employing mental skills like imagery and reflection. Listeners will learn actionable steps to bounce back from a...

In this episode of 'Passion for Dance,' host Dr. Chelsea talks with high-performance coach Amber Fahey about the benefits of integrating meditation, breath work, and journaling into dance practices. Amber, who has worked with nationally ranked dance...

In this episode of Passion for Dance, Dr. Chelsea addresses jealousy and teammate tension. She discusses the common causes of jealousy, including social relationship threats, competitive environments lacking emotional support, and low self-esteem...

In this special episode of 'Passion for Dance,' host Dr. Chelsea reveals her proven process for cultivating a dance team with a strong sense of purpose and lasting motivation. Joined by guest Coach Ali James, they discuss setting team values and goals...

In this episode of Passion for Dance, Dr. Chelsea explores the evolving landscape of leadership within dance teams in both school and studio settings. She highlights how the traditional role of a team captain is changing, with a shift towards shared...

In this episode of 'Passion for Dance,' host Dr. Chelsea explores the complexities of choosing a career in the performing arts. Joined by master certified life and career coach Cheryl Polk, they discuss holistic approaches to finding fulfilling...

In this episode of Passion for Dance, host Dr. Chelsea explores the phrase "leave it at the door" in the dance industry and its relevance in 2025. Joined by guest expert Dr. Audrey Schnell, a psychologist and coach with over 40 years of experience,...

In this episode, host Dr. Chelsea talks to distinguished dance educator Anabella Lenzu about the shifting focus in the dance community from artistic expression to technical perfection and competitive achievements. Anabella, originally from Argentina...

In this episode of Passion for Dance, Dr. Chelsea addresses the growing pessimism among teenage competitive dancers. She emphasizes the importance of optimism for competitive success and mental resilience, differentiating it from toxic positivity. Dr....

In this milestone episode, host Dr. Chelsea reflects on 200 episodes of the Passion for Dance podcast, sharing key insights and lessons from the four pillars of the show: mindset, motivation, resilience, and community. She emphasizes the need for...

In this episode of Passion for Dance, host Dr. Chelsea is joined by professional dancer Nia Lonette. The two dive into Nia's journey from Maryland to becoming an acclaimed dancer in LA, featuring her work with prominent artists and appearances at...

Dr. Chelsea tackles the challenges dancers face during the intense competition season including losing and offers valuable insights into three aspects worse than losing: regret, blame, and lack of improvement. Dr. Chelsea shares personal stories and...

In this episode of Passion for Dance, Dr. Chelsea speaks with Jared Redick, a third-generation professional ballet dancer and current Dean at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts. Mr Redick shares his extensive dance journey and...

In the third installment of 'Emotional Intelligence for Dancers,' Dr. Chelsea delves into coping strategies for managing emotions over the long term, helping dancers recover from disappointment and frustration. She emphasizes the importance of...

In this episode of Passion for Dance, Dr. Chelsea continues her series on emotional intelligence for dancers, focusing on strategies for managing negative emotions. She provides five proactive techniques including mindfulness, building a support...

In this episode of 'Passion for Dance,' Dr. Chelsea, discusses how emotions impact a dancer’s ability to focus, move, and connect with the audience. With competition season in full swing, she delves into the importance of understanding and...

In this episode, guest artist Galit Friedlander shares her personal dance journey from starting her professional career as a young teen to working as an assistant choreographer for Prince. She discusses the impact of being highly sensitive and...

In this episode of Dr. Chelsea delves into the benefits of mindfulness for dancers. She clarifies the difference between mindfulness and meditation and discusses how mindfulness can improve both mental well-being and dance performance. Dr. Chelsea...

In this episode of Passion for Dance, Dr. Chelsea addresses the common struggle dancers face with comparison. From defining why we compare ourselves to others to exploring its psychological impacts, Dr. Chelsea provides a deep dive into this common...

Dr. Chelsea announces updates for the Passion for Dance podcast in 2025, including a slight shift in focus towards more dancer-focused episodes while maintaining content for dance educators and coaches. There's also a new website: , for easier access...

Would you want to know that your last time onstage was the last time? Would that knowledge bring closure or would it be too difficult to perform if you knew it was your last time? My guest in today’s episode was a professional dancer who battled...

Today’s episode is all about making it as a professional dancer. My guest, Justine Menter, has over 15 years of experience in LA's entertainment industry as a choreographer, educator, and entrepreneur. She hosts her own podcast, Dance Careers...