65. Guest: Lauren Messina - Shifting Your Identify When You No Longer Dance Full-time

Guest Lauren Messina and I discuss what it's like to build your own community in the dance world, the unexpected changes in your life when you have children and what happens when you no longer dance full-time and how your identity changes. We both get deep and share personal expereinces and some of our "hows" of coming out on the other side. If you enjoy genuince conversation that organically finds its way, then this is the podcast for you.    Guest Bio: Lauren Ashlee Messina, M.F.A. (she/her/hers) is a Big Easy Award-winning dance choreographer with a heart for community. Born in Springfield, Illinois, Lauren has developed her career in the Greater New Orleans area in collaboration with a variety of dance related organizations, in addition to the Contemporary Arts Center of New Orleans and NOVAC. She is a 2023-2024 cohort member for New Orleans Museum of Art's Creative Assembly and founder of Dance Hub Community on Skool.   Highlights: The crossroads of community and dance How motherhood changes your dance path What happens with your identity as dancer when life changes   Links/Free Resources: Skool Dance The Dance CEO Society™ Community Dance CEO Masterclass Series   Follows & Contact: @laurenashleemessina @skooldance @thedanceceocoach [email protected] 

In this solo episode I pull back the curtain on my 30's. That may not seem like a big deal, but my 30's were frought with so many challenges that I am in awe of where I am at 40 today. I've shared a little of my story here and there, but now I go all in. I share this to help you grow on your journey and learn what you need to from my own experiences.  Running a dance business is not easy. Living life is not easy. But it doesn't have to stay in a long season of difficult. It CAN change. Topics Discussed: Why my first marriage ended What caused me to leave my Director of Dance position What it was like being a single mom for 4 years The process from being homeless to where I am now How many challenges led to the life I am blessed with today   This episode is for anyone who feels they will never get out of the slog. That there will always and only be challenges. And maybe even hold onto a little hope that things can improve.   Follows & Contacts: @thedanceceocoach [email protected]

In this solo episode, I’m breaking down five common (and harmful) beliefs that too many dance business owners carry — often without even realizing it. These lies sound like truth until burnout creeps in, passion fades, and running your business starts to feel like a grind. We’re unpacking beliefs like: “I have to say yes to everything or I’ll miss opportunities.” “If I’m not constantly working, I’m falling behind.” “I shouldn’t invest in myself until things slow down.” “It’s selfish to prioritize my needs.” “Money and art don’t mix.” You’ll hear honest reframes, grounded encouragement, and a reminder that you don’t have to burn out to build your dream. This episode is for the dance entrepreneur who’s ready to thrive — not just survive.   Links: May 13 - Free Masterclass! Dance CEO Self-Care Routine Blueprint Follows & Contact: @thedanceceocoach [email protected]

April 2nd is World Autism Awareness Day and is close to my heart because I am thriving with adult diagnosed autism and ADHD. In this episode I share education about autism, my personal story and how it connects to dance. You'll gain understanding and skills to improve how you show up to support others in the dance world, especially those with similar challenges. Highlights: Basic challenges of autism How autism can negatively impact a dancers experience What to be mindful of as a dance teacher, choreographer and business owner  My personal challenges of undiagnosed autism and dance training Links: May 13 - Free Masterclass! Dance CEO Self-Care Routine Blueprint Follows & Contact: @thedanceceocoach [email protected]

In this episode with guest Rachel Jenks, founder of Booty Kicking Ballerina, she shares an anything but ordinary journey from stopping being a professional dancer due to injury, to where she is now. We also talk deeply about internal healing and what it takes to embrace and love who you are regardless the title of dancer we are so used to embodying. Stick around til the end of the episode because we both share some deeply personal transitions we have had to undergo to be where we are today.  Guest Bio: Rachel Jenks is a seasoned coach, NASM certified Corrective Exercise Specialist, personal trainer, and health coach who helps dancers and high performers reconnect with their bodies to move pain-free and achieve their best. Known as the Booty Kicking Ballerina, Rachel combines her expertise in movement, her professional ballet background, and her deep understanding of the mind-body connection to deliver transformative results for her clients. Her journey into coaching was deeply personal. After injury and unhealthy mindsets ended her professional ballet career and threatened her freedom of movement, Rachel refused to accept a life defined by chronic pain. Instead, she embarked on a decades-long healing journey that shaped her approach to movement and well-being. Along the way, she discovered her passion for helping others heal from the inside out, strengthening not just their bodies but their whole selves. Rachel is dedicated to coaching and empowering her clients with the tools, knowledge, and support to thrive both physically and emotionally. Rachel is also the author of the Amazon bestseller Morning Tea: Daily Encouragements for Entrepreneurs and a sought-after public speaker. When she’s not coaching or training, she loves creating in the kitchen for her food blog, going on adventures, and spending time with friends and her two beloved cats. Highlights: It's possible to be to committed to dance What happens when forced to stop dancing How dance experience can influence a path outside of it The healing journey with oneself The mindset that shows you're thriving What it means to Rachel to be the CEO of her life and business   Links/Free Resources: https://mindset2movement.com/kaley https://www.thedanceceocoach.com/society Dance CEO Self-Care Routine Blueprint Dance CEO Masterclass Series   Follows & Contact: @mindsettomove @thedanceceocoach [email protected] 

This is usually one of the last things a dance business owner does for themselves, but is one of the most important! Becoming proactive in our rest is THE key to ensuring success and the ability to move our businesses and dreams forward. Listen on to learn the why and how to make this a realistic part of your life, without add to the burnout you're feeling.  Highlights: what is active rest and why we need it the 4 elements to holistic self-care how to realistically apply active rest without jeopardizing your business  what I do to make this happen Links:   March 11 - Free Masterclass! Dance CEO Self-Care Routine Blueprint Follows & Contact: @thedanceceocoach [email protected]

  So many dance business owners go to the traditional business world to seek Information for themselves. But then struggle when what they learn isn't working in their own dance business. This is normal! And there is a way to work around this and even experience growth and success while you're at it.   Highlights: 4 traditional business practices that don't work How to adjust to what does work for your dance business Personal experiences with self and clients Resources to help you achieve this Links: NEW Dance CEO Society™ membership Feb 18 - Free Masterclass! Dance CEO Self-Care Routine Blueprint Follows & Contact: @thedanceceocoach [email protected]

  Season 3 is here! We are almost 60 episodes in and have had so many guests. I can't wait to share with you the guests lined up for this season! I share a quick recap of the holidays and all the exciting things to look ahead this season. I also divulge some workshops coming up and ways we can work together.   Highlights: New format for season 3 Permission granted to take time to need Quick recap of holidays Masterclasses coming up Ways to work together  Links: NEW Dance CEO Society™ membership Feb 11 - Free Masterclass! Dance CEO Self-Care Routine Blueprint Follows & Contact: @thedanceceocoach [email protected]

It's time to reflect on this past year. And boy did it go so differently than I envisioned at the start of 2024. From coming out of survival mode, to launching a new membership and completing the practitioner AND mastery level of 3 certifications. So many things occurred. And I get into the juicy details about it. Also, this is the final episode for season 2. We are going on a holiday break and will be back for season 3 in January, with an amazing line up of high caliber guests! Links: https://www.thedanceceocoach.com/society https://www.thedanceceocoach.com/masterclass Follows: @thedanceceocoach

  An entrepreneurial mindset is often overlooked or not even recognized, especially in the dance world. But it is so crucially important to develop and have one. This week I share exactly what an entrepreneurial mindset is and how to develop it. And why it may be such a challenge for you and your dance business or career.   Highlights: Defining an entrepreneur  The unique approach in the dance world Why many in the dance world struggle with this identity How to embrace the entrepreneurial mindset Links: https://www.thedanceceocoach.com/society   Follows: @thedanceceocoach