What behaviors and attitudes ensure freelance dancers' career longevity? Does compassion help?

Episode 13. Shannelle ‘Tali’ Fergus' Journey in the Performing Arts

"I think there's a level of acceptance that needs to come with being where you are because of what you're doing and not thinking that you're doing all you can and the world just hasn't rewarded you for your efforts yet." Tali, explores her multifaceted career from commercial dance to choreography and beyond. Tali shares her journey through the dance scene, her transitions between different styles and companies, and how she manages her identity within the ever-evolving dance industry. * 00:00 - Introduction * 00:02 - Tali's start in dance and early influences * 02:13 - Auditioning for 'Into the Hoods' and the shift to a full-time dance career * 04:05 - Working with top artists and transition to teaching * 05:03 - Development of 'Identity Ideas Industry' * 07:05 - Balancing passion and career * 10:41 - The impact of social media on dance careers * 15:21 - Financial realities of commercial dance vs. teaching * 22:39 - Well-being practices and the importance of support systems * 36:30 - Balancing multiple roles in the dance industry * 42:48 - Conclusion and reflections on personal growth and career paths Tali is a renowned figure in the dance community known for her dynamic approach to hip hop theatre and commercial dance. With a career spanning over two decades, she has performed with notable artists like Pink, Rihanna, and Kylie, and has significantly contributed to dance education and choreography. Contact Tali here: Website [https://taliii.co/about-tali] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/tali_1301/?hl=en]

Episode 15. Harnessing Compassion for Career Sustainability

"Compassion is what sets this whole thing apart." In this episode, Rachel delves into the intricacies of Paul Gilbert’s model of compassion and its application to freelancers, particularly freelance dancers. Rachel, a student at the University of Salford, explores the psychological and physiological impacts of compassion, discussing how it can foster career longevity and well-being among freelance dancers. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to compassion and its importance 05:00 - Understanding the brain and social mentalities 12:30 - The threat system and its effects on freelancers 20:45 - The role of society in shaping our responses 25:00 - The soothe system and the power of self-compassion 35:00 - Implications for freelance dance artists 45:00 - The physiological impact of compassion 55:00 - Conclusion and preview of next episodes * Balanced Minds. (n.d.). Three system model. Balanced Minds. Retrieved July 24, 2024, from https://balancedminds.com/three-system-model/ [https://balancedminds.com/three-system-model/] * Gilbert, P. (2010). The compassionate mind: A new approach to life's challenges. London: Constable.

Episode 14. Community, Careers, and Creativity with Karen Wood

"Artist-led networks put the artist in charge, creating their own opportunities." In this episode, we delve deep with Karen Wood, a seasoned dancer and researcher, into the intricacies of the dance community and freelance careers. Karen discusses her journey through dance, the significance of artist-led networks, and the challenges and opportunities within the dance sector. Timestamps: * 00:32 - Karen’s background in dance and academia * 01:31 - Access to dance and motivations for research * 02:01 - Policy engagement and social change research * 03:23 - Formation of the Manchester Dance Consortium * 05:09 - Integration of research and practical application in dance * 06:02 - The impact of artist-led networks on professional development * 09:17 - Challenges of freelancing and union roles * 13:31 - Financial instability and support systems for freelancers * 21:10 - The role of creative identities and artist-led initiatives * 27:16 - Essential skills for freelancers and leaders in the dance sector * 34:11 - Policy implications and future directions in dance freelancing * 41:50 - The potential of artist-led networks in shaping the dance industry Guest Information: Karen Wood - Dancer, Researcher, and Advocate for the dance community. Karen has extensive experience in both performing and academic aspects of dance, focusing on policy engagement and community-led initiatives. Resources https://www.mcrdansortium.com/ https://birminghamdancenetwork.co.uk/ https://freelancedance.uk/about/

Episode 12. Self-Compassion in Performance-Oriented Environments with Courtney Walton

"The compassionate approach isn't to say, 'This is too hard, let's just avoid it.' It's to turn towards that difficulty and find a way through." "Taking a more compassionate approach is really helpful for managing some of the distress that will come up somewhat inevitably through some of those things that people like freelance dancers will face." In this episode, Courtney Walton, a researcher and psychologist, discusses the importance of self-compassion in performance-oriented environments such as elite sports and performing arts. He explains how self-compassion can help performers manage distress, overcome perfectionism, and foster a supportive community. Courtney also shares practical strategies for developing self-compassion and highlights the need for compassionate approaches within training environments. Timestamps: * 00:02 – Introduction to Courtney Walton and her background * 00:32 – Courtney’s work in elite sports and performing arts * 01:28 – Experience at a dance school and its impact on her research * 02:22 – Discussion on self-compassion in performers * 03:16 – Defining a compassionate approach * 05:12 – How understanding the brain helps in managing distress * 06:38 – Compassion-focused therapy in practice * 08:06 – The role of self-compassion in handling criticism and comparison * 10:24 – Addressing resistance to self-compassion * 11:20 – Misconceptions about self-compassion * 14:17 – The analogy of compassionate vs. critical teaching * 17:22 – Developing self-compassion as a skill * 20:02 – Practical exercises for nurturing self-compassion * 23:44 – The impact of compassionate meditations on performers * 27:11 – The role of compassion in combating perfectionism * 32:48 – Community support and self-compassion for freelancers * 38:08 – Future research directions in compassion and performance Check Courtney's website here [https://www.courtneycwalton.com/publications]

Episode 11. Embracing Creativity and Leadership with Dannielle ‘Rhimes’ Lecointe

"Learning to grieve a project is essential for creative rest." "Your gift will make room for you." In this episode, we chat with Dannielle Rhimes LeCointe, a prominent figure in the hip-hop theater and creative arts scene. In this episode, Dannielle discusses her transition from a performer in hip-hop theatre to a leadership role in the creative arts. She emphasises the importance of recognising and leveraging one’s strengths, dealing with creative fatigue through unique rest methods, and seeking support and mentorship. Dannielle also shares her journey into coaching, highlighting the value of reinvention and self-awareness for long-term career success. Timestamps: * 00:02 - Introduction and Danielle's background * 01:28 - Transition from performer to leadership roles * 03:19 - The importance of leadership in Danielle's journey * 05:16 - Milestones and recognizing leadership qualities * 09:28 - Dealing with creative fatigue and finding rest * 13:33 - The importance of unique rest methods for creatives * 17:54 - Prioritizing and grounding oneself amidst various projects * 19:22 - Support systems for freelancers and the importance of mentorship * 25:06 - Danielle's transition into coaching and mentorship * 32:44 - Key factors for career longevity and reinvention * 36:39 - Understanding identity outside of creative work Dannielle's creative account [https://www.instagram.com/rhimesthecreative/] Dannielle's Biz account [https://www.instagram.com/thisdannielle/?hl=en]