The Resilient Dance Teacher Podcast

11 - Balancing High Standards with Compassionate Teaching (ft. Emma)

In this podcast episode, I invited on my dear friend and coworker Emma Lochner. In this thoughtful and honest conversation, we explore one of the most important topics in dance education today: how to create classrooms that are both supportive and structured. For many dancers, training environments rooted in fear, shame, or harsh criticism were once considered “normal” in the pursuit of excellence. While the dance world continues evolving toward healthier teaching practices, many educators are also navigating the challenge of maintaining discipline, accountability, and high standards without becoming overly passive. In this episode, we discuss what it truly means to lead with both compassion and authority. We reflect on personal experiences with harmful teaching moments that stayed with us, how those experiences shaped our own teaching philosophies, and the ongoing work of building studio cultures rooted in respect, consistency, and trust.

10 - Intentional Lesson Planning for the Busy Dance Teacher

Lesson planning doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. In this episode of The Resilient Dance Teacher, we’re talking about how to create intentional, effective dance classes without overcomplicating the process or burning yourself out. Whether you’re teaching ongoing weekly classes, semester-based programs, workshops, or drop-in classes, this episode breaks down practical strategies to help you plan with more clarity and purpose. You’ll learn: * The difference between planning for progressive class structures vs. one-off classes * How to organize technical skills from foundational to advanced * Ways to create intentional class “units” that support long-term growth * Why repetition is essential for student confidence and retention * How to use motifs and recurring concepts throughout class for deeper understanding * Simple strategies for planning combinations with a clear focus * Why effective teaching is about intentional progression—not proving yourself through overly complicated choreography We also discuss how to let your authentic teaching voice shine through while building classes that feel purposeful, supportive, and sustainable for both you and your students. Plus, we reference Episode 9 for warm-up planning and preparation strategies. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed trying to constantly create brand-new material every week, this episode will help you simplify your planning process while still delivering meaningful, high-quality dance education. Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share the podcast with another dance teacher who could use encouragement and support! Love ya'll! - Reed ❤️ Ebook: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/reboot Website: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/homepage

09 - Smarter Warm-Ups: Engaging Your Dancers from the Start

In this episode we'll discuss why warm-ups matter more than we sometimes give them credit for—from building heat and mobilizing joints to preventing injury, activating key muscles, and mentally centering dancers for the work ahead. Because a warm-up isn’t just a routine—it’s preparation for performance. I also get real about what warm-ups aren’t (hint: they shouldn’t be boring, mindless, or just a box to check), and introduce the structured framework I’ve been using: the H.I.P.-C.D. Method. This approach helps you create warm-ups that are purposeful, progressive, and actually support your dancers’ needs. And yes—we’re talking about how to make it fun. Because when dancers are engaged, everything works better. Think music, creativity, and bringing artistry into the room from the very start. We’ll also touch on the power of repetition and why keeping some consistency in your warm-ups can actually deepen focus and improve performance over time. If you’re a dance teacher who’s ready to move beyond “just getting through it” and start using warm-ups as a powerful teaching tool, this episode is for you. As you listen, consider this: Are your warm-ups truly preparing your dancers… or just filling time? If this episode resonates, try out the H.I.P.-C.D. method in your next class, and don’t forget to grab my Dancer Warm-Up Guide linked in the show notes. Join my mailing list: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/resilientnewsletter Download FREE Dancer Warm Up Guide: Dancer Warm Up Guide [https://drive.google.com/file/d/10JANmOXyRYJwHOHVlqql-UEmYMnoRDpU/view?usp=sharing]

08 - Confidently Teaching Life Skills Through Dance

Being a dance teacher is about so much more than teaching steps—it’s about shaping people. In this episode, we dive into one of the most complex and meaningful parts of the role: understanding the responsibility that comes with guiding students not just in technique, but in growth, resilience, and self-awareness. We explore research-backed insights on the benefits of dance within structured environments, highlighting how elements like physical exertion, teamwork, mentorship, and shared purpose naturally foster physical health, emotional well-being, cognitive development, and social connection—even before technical mastery enters the picture. From there, we unpack the concept of resilience and how educators play a key role in building it. What does it really mean to create a “facilitative environment”? Think high challenge paired with high support—and the powerful impact that balance can have on a dancer’s development. Of course, dance teachers are constantly juggling multiple priorities: technique, creativity, emotional growth, and life skills that extend far beyond the studio. It’s a lot. So we take a moment to reframe the pressure—because while the responsibility is real, it’s also a privilege. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, this episode offers a reminder: that feeling often comes from a place of deep care—and that care is part of what makes you effective. We also get practical, discussing how to support both your students and yourself through clear boundaries, expectations, and accountability. From setting the tone on day one to modeling professionalism and creating space for honest communication, we break down actionable strategies you can start using right away. Because great teaching isn’t just about what you give—it’s also about how you sustain yourself while doing it. Let’s get into it. The Resilient Dance Teacher Reboot: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/reboot Join my mailing list!! https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/resilientnewsletter

07 - Tips for Balancing Technique and Creativity in the Studio

In this episode, we’re diving into the art of balancing technique with creativity in the dance classroom. While strong technique provides structure, growth, and consistency, it’s only one part of the equation. Dance is a performing art, and without creativity, expression, and connection, we’re missing what truly brings it to life. We explore why creativity isn’t just an “extra,” but an essential component of dance education—supporting cognitive, emotional, and social development. You’ll hear practical, easy-to-implement strategies for keeping students engaged while still building technical skills, including improvisation prompts, partner work, and intentional lesson planning. Enjoy! I'd love to hear from you! Email me at reed@theresilientdanceteacher.com Instagram: @theresilientdanceteacherpod Link to The Resilient Dance Teacher Reboot: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/reboot [https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/reboot] Link to article "“Childhood Adversity and the Creative Experience in Adult Professional Performing Artists": https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2018.00111/full [https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2018.00111/full]