Tamisha Anthony is an illustrator working for clients such as Penguin Random House, Macmillan Publishers, Little Brown, and Chronicle Books. She recently finished her 6th ⁠picture book⁠ within 4 years, and is now working on her 7th and 8th. Tamisha has taught at the New-York Historical Society and the Harlem School of the Arts, and is currently teaching an art history + illustration class called "⁠Redrawing Black History⁠" with Lilla Rogers for ⁠Make Art That Sells⁠. Her new class "⁠Find Your Art Style with Style⁠" on the same platform will be available in 2025. Tamisha also writes and illustrates the article “Spilling the Tea with T” for ⁠Uppercase Magazine⁠.  In today’s episode, ⁠Tamisha Anthony⁠ discusses her career as an illustrator and children's book author, how her personal style evolved and helps her be seen for who she truly is, & her background in dance and the decision to transition out of it to protect her mental health. She also discusses body image and the pressure to conform to certain standards in the dance industry, & how to identify “good stress” and move through the discomfort. Learn more about ⁠Tamisha Anthony & ⁠The Story Project⁠.   --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/storyproject/support

Karma Jenkins⁠ is a multi-hyphenate artist whose work on screen includes The Time Traveler's Wife (HBO), Ghost: PowerBook II (Starz) and The Last O.G (TBS). She’s appeared in commercials for Amazon Prime & William Hill Winery and is a member of SAG/AFTRA & Actors Equity. Karma has worked across the United States at reputable regional stages such as The Old Globe, 5th Ave Theatre & The MUNY, and has recently joined the production side of upcoming new stage works. Karma believes that the change we want to happen starts in our own backyards and she is dedicated to the idea that art and activism go hand in hand.  In today’s episode, Karma discusses using one’s voice for change, the lack of diversity and representation behind the scenes in the entertainment industry, and the need for more diverse voices and perspectives in decision-making roles. She also discusses taking care of one’s mental health, finding outlets for self-expression and joy outside of the industry, and the power of being true to oneself in auditions. Learn more about Karma Jenkins & The Story Project.   --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/storyproject/support

In today’s episode, Dinah Hampson discusses: The importance of providing performers with the tools and resources to have sustainable career Challenging the narrative that dancers must suffer and have short careers Her online platform, Pivot Dancer, which offers resources and classes to help performers take care of their bodies and prevent injuries The need for empowerment and mental performance skills for dancers Abuse and unsafe practices in dance and the importance of creating a supportive community Injury prevention, the importance of sleep, and the need to normalize strength training in dance Dinah Hampson is a Physiotherapist who is passionate about enjoying life and using her knowledge to promote high performance in others. Dinah holds many certifications including the Sport Physio Diploma and International Sports Physiotherapist qualification, the Diploma of Manual & Manipulative Therapy and Pelvic Health Physiotherapy. Dinah is the Founder of Pivot Sport Medicine, a multidisciplinary clinic in Toronto, Canada and Pivot Dancer, a virtual dance injury prevention platform with worldwide membership. Dinah has been on the Canadian medical team for over 15 multisport games, including the Olympics, Youth Olympics, Paralympic, Pan American, World University and Commonwealth Games. Dinah trained in classical ballet, and brings a technical eye to her treatment of dancers and artistic athletes. Dinah works regularly with professional dancers from companies such as the National Ballet of Canada, Joffrey Ballet, Dutch National Ballet, Canadian Contemporary Dance Theatre, Singapore Ballet and, Cirque du Solei. Dinah is active in dance science research and is a regular conference presenter. RECEIVE 15% OFF OF ALL THINGS PIVOT DANCER USING THE CODE: THESTORYPROJECT Follow along on Dinah’s journey: @dinahhampson @pivotdancer Transcript available on our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/storyproject/support

In today’s episode, Jhansi discusses:  Her recent move from India to America  The process of creating her music video “We Break Up Because of Family Reasons” The challenges she faced as a musical theater artist in India  The cultural expectations and challenges of arranged marriages  Loneliness and struggling to find connection in New York City  Setting goals and exploring many interests  Jhansi is a musical theater director, creator, performer, lyricist, and composer. She takes her audience through a range of emotions from unexpected laughter to abrupt tears. Her candid performances focus on the stirring themes of youth, marriage, women’s equality, aspirations, anxiety, desperation, and hope, something that the masses can relate to in their own lives.  Jhansi was the First Indian to be accepted into the BA in Musical Theatre performance program at Lasalle College of the Arts in Singapore. She was also a part of Queens of Comedy, which aired on TLC, Netflix, and Amazon Prime. She performed in one of India’s biggest Broadway shows, Aladdin, as Iago. She has directed and created multiple Original Musical Theatre shows including "Don't Eat My Face Pizza" and "Terrified of Twenty-Five”, along with countless collaborations for Broadway style music videos and massive scale festivals.  Jhansi moved to the United States to be a part of the BMI Lehman Engel Musical Theatre Workshop in NYC as a lyricist and was also invited to become a permanent member of the American Comedy Group, Broad Comedy.  Follow along on Jhansi’s journey: @thejhansiway Transcript available on our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/storyproject/support

In today’s episode, Heidi Miami Marshall discusses: the importance of celebrating individuality in acting the need to remove the concept of right and wrong in artistic expression the connection between personal experiences and the interpretation of scenes  the challenges of navigating grief while immersed in professional work the spiritual nature of art and the profound impact it can have on both the artist and the audience embracing a non-linear journey and the importance of self-care the empowering experience of challenging limitations  Heidi Miami Marshall’s career has spanned over 25 years as an Acting Coach, Film and Theater Director, Casting Director, and Acting Studio Owner. Originally, Heidi was the lead Casting Director at The Telsey Office for the Broadway musical RENT, as well as for 70+ projects in theater, film, TV, commercial, and voiceover. Heidi has directed on the Broadway shows THE ADDAMS FAMILY, BAZ LUHRMANN'S LA BOHÈME, and THE COLOR PURPLE. Now the owner of a top acting studio, she’s coached countless actors into roles, and her on-camera training classes are highly regarded by reps and casting directors. She is frequently hired by directors and production studios to prep actors for auditions, screen tests and performance. Talent spans from new actors to Emmy award-winning. Notable collaborators include John Turturro, Baz Luhrmann, and Rob Marshall (no relation). Heidi's clients have graced the big and small screen, from indie to blockbuster, plus countless Broadway stages. She recently coached René Pérez (aka Residente) in Sundance Grand Jury Winner and Tribeca Spotlight Narrative film IN THE SUMMERS. Also a director, Heidi’s simultaneous filmmaker career provides a keen sensitivity to what is needed from actors. Her work includes S.P.I.C. (Vail, Soho Intl', Bowery), MORE THAN (LAByrinth Theater Co.), MUSCLE (Cinequest, Sun Valley), AMBER, A THROUGH M (Cinequest, Palm Beach), and more. Heidi is the recipient of a NY Drama League Fellowship and American Film Institute’s Directing Workshop for Women. Follow along on Heidi’s journey: @heidimarshallstudio Transcript available on our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/storyproject/support

In today’s episode, Chryssie Whitehead discusses: Her 25 year career across film, television and theater Making her Broadway Debut in the 2006 Revival of A Chorus Line and being part of the accompanying documentary “Every Little Step” Navigating rejection in the entertainment industry  Discovering the acting bug and the importance of staying true to oneself  Her experiences with depression and mental health, and how she found healing through therapy and medication Creating and performing her show, 'In My Own Little Corner,' which aims to normalize conversations around mental health The unpredictable nature of an acting career, including her experience on Grey's Anatomy  Chryssie Whitehead is an artist, author, director, choreographer, educator, mentor and producer who began her career as a Rockette. She made her Broadway Debut in the 2006 revival of A Chorus Line as Kristine, which was also captured in the hit documentary, Every Little Step. She is also heard on the cast album in "Sing" with Tony nominated actor, Tony Yazbeck. She then joined the international tour of Fosse, played Kitty and understudied Velma in Broadway’s Chicago, performed alongside Neil Patrick Harris in Company at Lincoln Center, and danced on Paul McCartney’s international tour. Chryssie's film and television credits include Stephen Spielberg’s West Side Story, Revenge of the Bridesmaids with Raven Symone, Grey’s Anatomy, and being the dance double in Save the Last Dance with Julia Stiles.  Chryssie is the Co-founder and Co-Director of Broadway Arts Community and its non-profit sister, Broader Than Broadway where she serves as a mentor and coach. She is currently on tour with her autobiographical play with music, In My Own Little Corner: My Moods, My Mom, and Me, as author, artist and lead producer, seeking to normalize conversations around mental health. Follow along on Chryssie’s journey: @chryssiewhitehead Transcript available on our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/storyproject/support

In today’s episode, Lauren Mariasoosay discusses: The challenges and fulfillment she experienced when crafting the role of Catherine Parr in SIX The Musical The importance of vulnerability in theater Dealing with imposter syndrome The impact of performances on both performers and audience members  The importance of swings and how difficult the job is  How family influence can affect one’s career choices The importance of finding support outside of traditional family structures Body image, finding routines, and caring for your wellbeing Lauren Mariasoosay is an actress, singer, and dancer who is currently playing Eliza in the Hamilton Angelica 2.0 Tour! She previously performed in the original Canadian cast of SIX The Musical as Catherine Parr after being on the national tours of Aladdin and CATS. Lauren worked at the Disneyland Resort as a Dance Swing and Principle Vocalist whilst getting her BFA in Musical Theatre at Cal State Fullerton.  Lauren has spent a huge part of her career creating representation for south asian and mixed-race folks in the industry and is hoping to inspire more to join her on the way. She loves to paint, read, and make playlists when she isn’t screlting her face off for a living! Follow along on Lauren’s journey: @laurenmariasoosay Transcript available on our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/storyproject/support

In today’s episode, Tuan Malinowski discusses: their non-traditional path from musician to grass-roots choreographer imposter syndrome and self-doubt as a choreographer the importance of setting boundaries for mental health and how it has helped ease their anxiety their experiences of quitting jobs because of emotionally unsafe and toxic environments the impact of white supremacy in the theater industry and the need to focus on equity and inclusion in the workplace the importance of challenging traditional practices in the current musical theater space Tuan Malinowski is a New York-based director and choreographer, who most recently choreographed Cabaret at Northern Stage. They were the chosen choreographer for New York Theatre Barn’s Choreography Lab, where they were mentored by Emmy-winning, Tony-nominated choreographer Joshua Bergasse.  Tuan’s work as choreographer has also been seen at Jay Armstrong Johnson’s I Put A Spell On You: The Witches Era, Leg Up On Life’s Night of Life, Weathervane Theatre, as well as at universities such as Texas State University, Ithaca College, Viterbo University and the University of Alabama at Birmingham.  They have associate and assistant credits at theatres such as Goodspeed Musicals, Pittsburgh CLO and Theater Row. Tuan has performed at regional theatres across the country, such as Pittsburgh CLO, Casa Mañana, Kansas City Starlight Theatre and Flat Rock Playhouse. Tuan received their BFA from Ithaca College. They are a member of Actors’ Equity Association and an associate member of Society of Directors and Choreographers. Follow along on Tuan’s journey: @tuanmalinowski Transcript available on our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/storyproject/support

TW: Sexual assault In the final episode of Season 2, Honza Pelichovský interviews Jess to follow up on last week's solo episode. Jess shares: The three changes she believes dance programs can make to improve the lives and careers of their dancers Advice and loving words that she would tell my younger self Whether or not she would take back her traumatic experience because of how it’s shaped her How she feels about publicly sharing her story and the healing that it has offered Her favorite parts of making this podcast (and more about her endless gratitude…) @storyprojectpod⁠ ⁠@jessaltch⁠ ⁠jessicaaltchiler.com⁠ Transcript available on our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/storyproject/support

In this solo episode, Jessica Altchiler dives into her personal journey and the evolution of The Story Project podcast. She reflects on her experiences, sharing anecdotes from her college years that shaped her perspective and fueled her passion for storytelling. Jessica recounts a pivotal moment in her life — her experience with sexual assault — and candidly discusses the profound impact it had on her. She goes on to share how the Me Too Movement influenced her and highlights the power of collective voices in fostering awareness and driving change. @storyprojectpod @jessaltch jessicaaltchiler.com Transcript available on our ⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠⁠! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/storyproject/support

Jenna Ushkowitz is a SAG and Tony Award Winning Actress & Producer, voice actor and Podcast host. She is known for her role as Tina Cohen-Chang on the Fox TV show Glee and has appeared in Broadway shows such as The King & I, Spring Awakening and Waitress.  In today’s episode, Jenna discusses the beauty and pain that came from Glee, how she learned to separate her worth from her career, and the fear and confidence that comes from pursuing new opportunities.  She also shares how motherhood has reconnected her with her desires, how she learned to effectively and respectfully advocate for herself, and how sharing our stories helps us all feel less alone. Follow along on Jenna’s journey: @jennaushkowitz Transcript available on our ⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠⁠! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/storyproject/support

Lisann Valentin, an established film and television Actor, a New York Times Best Selling Author, and Certified Spiritual Coach guiding creatives into personal transformation. From hit shows like Manifest, Narcos, and The Blacklist, to the New York Times best-selling anthology Eat Pray Love Made Me Do It, Lisann captivates audiences and readers with her raw vulnerability and empowering wisdom.  In today’s episode, Lisann shares her journey of self-exploration, authenticity, and reconnecting with spiritual roots, how she allows her heart’s calling to dictate the medium of expression, and the importance of honoring the union of all parts of oneself.  She also discusses her creative process and embodying characters as an actor, what she offers as a spiritual coach, and how we can be grounded in the present moment.  Follow along on Lisann’s journey: @lisannvalentin Transcript available on our ⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠⁠! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/storyproject/support

Kaia Goodenough is a freelance curator, writer and facilitator in London, particularly interested in interdisciplinary and collaboratively embodied practices. Kaia originally trained as a contemporary dancer at London Studio Centre and her choreography has been performed at Lillian Bayliss, Sadlers Wells, DanceEast, Battersea Arts Centre, The Place and the Point, and Eastleigh. She recently studied at the Royal College of Art graduating with a Masters in curating contemporary Art. In today’s episode, Kaia discusses how she took her complicated relationship with dance and worked to reclaim it as her own, how being a dancer influences her art, producing, and curation, and the beauty of dancing explicitly to have a good time.  She also shares how having her work funded was the least creative she’s ever been, how the choreographic project empowering students led to her never being asked to return,  and how she explores femininity and womanhood through movement. Follow along on Kaia’s journey: kaiagoodenough.co.uk Transcript available on our ⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠⁠! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/storyproject/support

Lee Hubilla is an actor whose performances have graced the screen on Law & Order: SVU, Dash & Lily, and FBI: Most Wanted and on the stage at The Magnet, The PIT, and Ars Nova. She was an acting mentee under Lena Waithe’s Hillman Grad Mentorship Lab and had a writing mentorship under Giant Leap’s inaugural accelerator program. In today’s episode, Lee and Jessica discuss the deeper rewards and empowerment that came from chopping their hair, the impact of dance on identity and self-perception, and the process of reconnecting with your body after trauma.  Lee shares how she transitioned from dancer to actor and writer, what she learned from taking conscious breaks from her chosen crafts, and how to embrace the messiness of life.  Follow along on Lee’s journey: @butactuallee Transcript available on our ⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠⁠! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/storyproject/support

Lexi Garcia-Toye is a distinguished dancer currently enchanting audiences with the Walt Disney World Company in Orlando, Florida. She previously performed in Broadway's "Hamilton," the touring productions of "Finding Neverland" and "Hamilton," as well as "Mamma Mia" at The Fireside Theater, "Whiskeyland" at the Orlando Fringe Festival, and "Le Cirque Bijou" on Norwegian Cruise Line.  In today’s episode, Lexi talks about the onset and recovery of her eating disorder, her magical connection to Finding Neverland, and her experience auditioning and performing in Hamilton.   She also discusses how the COVID pandemic altered the course of her life for the better, the difficulties and joys of working at Magic Kingdom, and how she is grateful and excited for the uncertainty of the future.  Follow along on Lexi’s journey: @lexi_toye Transcript available on our ⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠⁠! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/storyproject/support

In today’s conversation, Thomas Hodges bravely shares his journey through the past six months of sobriety. He shares the impact it has had on his creative process, how we can become curious about toxic cycles and what no longer serves us, and what challenges have arose thus far.   Thomas and Jessica discuss the power of creating art from the feelings you are currently struggling with, the ability for artists to create meaningful connections and impact other people’s lives through their work, and one surefire way to get yourself to write a cabaret.  *Transcript available on our ⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠⁠! About Thomas Hodges: Thomas Hodges is an award-winning composer and educator who received the 2018 Arch and Bruce Brown Foundation Grant and The Anna Sosenko Assist Grant for his musical Sonata 1962, which won the 2018 New York Musical Festival Award for “Outstanding Musical Arrangements and Orchestrations.'' His musical Underground was part of the 2019 NYMF Reading Series and he was most recently the Developmental Music Consultant for Life Jacket Theatre’s The Gorgeous Nothings. Thomas’s score for Dear Harvey (Playscripts Inc.) has had 50 international productions, 3 language translations, earned him a commendation from the City of San Diego, and an award from the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival. His Commissions include The Harvey Milk Foundation, Diversionary Theatre, and Borough of Manhattan Community College.  In addition to performing his album release “Time Travelers” at Joes Pub, he’s performed across the country at notable venues including The Kennedy Center, California Center for the Arts, and 54 Below. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/storyproject/support

Ramita Ravi is a startup founder and artist. She is a professional dancer, choreographer, and educator with Bloc Talent Agency NY/LA. As a dancer, she’s worked on John Oliver and NYFW, and was one of the first South Asian dancers on So You Think You Can Dance and in the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. Ramita’s choreography credits include Coachella, Miss America, and Lincoln Center. She is the co-founder of Artswrk - a tech platform that connects artists with flexible work. She is passionate about representation, equity, and innovation in the arts.  In today’s episode, Ramita discusses the empowerment that comes with being a multi-hyphenate artist and entrepreneur, the importance of exploring multiple avenues of both employment and fulfillment, and how the company she built aims to disrupt the financial struggles that artist’s face. She also shares what it means to be one of the first South Asian artists performing and choreographing in multiple spaces, the most empowering choreographers and directors she’s worked with, and what she’s most interested in diving into next.  Follow along on Ramita’s journey: @ramita.ravi Transcript available on our ⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠⁠! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/storyproject/support

Honza is a professional dancer who traveled across the country as the Dance Captain on the Dirty Dancing National Tour and the Fiddler on the Roof National Tour. He’s performed with numerous dance companies in New York City and is now living in Charlotte, NC with his partner and puppy, where he is navigating the next stage of his career.  In today’s episode, Honza shares the struggles in balancing personal and professional goals, how he chases his dreams while leaving room for those dreams to evolve, and his relationship with the natural craving for positive reinforcement as an artist.  Honza and Jess discuss how success is defined by the individual, how navigating auditions requires finding a balance between authenticity and standing out, the challenges that comes with living in the United States as an artist (including visa limitations and financial constraints), and the hope that conversations and storytelling have the power to create change.  (Part 2 of 2) TW: Brief mention of sexual assault. Follow along on Honza’s journey: @honzapelichovsky Transcript available on our ⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠⁠!  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/storyproject/support

Honza is a professional dancer who traveled across the country as the Dance Captain on the Dirty Dancing National Tour and the Fiddler on the Roof National Tour. He’s performed with numerous dance companies in New York City and is now living in Charlotte, NC with his partner and puppy, where he is navigating the next stage of his career.  In today’s episode, Honza expresses how he brought his ballroom dance training into his college training and professional work and how he deals with criticism and disappointment as both a student and professional.   Honza and Jess discuss how while college education in dance can be valuable it often does not align with the realities of the professional dance world and how words and feedback given to dancers can have a lasting impact on their self-confidence and artistic development. (Part 1 of 2) TW: Brief mention of sexual assault. Follow along on Honza’s journey: @honzapelichovsky Transcript available on our ⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠⁠!  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/storyproject/support

Jessica emphasizes the importance of sharing stories and experiences as a way to connect and ignite empathy. She voices her belief that creating a supportive community is crucial for artists and humans to feel safe and well. Jessica also highlights the need for to take care of oneself holistically in order to sustainably fight for change. Transcript available on our ⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠⁠! TW: Sexual assault, eating disorders --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/storyproject/support

TW: This episode mentions sexual harassment and assault.  Jessica Chen is an American dancer, choreographer and Founder and Artistic Director of J CHEN PROJECT, a 501c3 nonprofit contemporary dance company. Her work has been presented at MoMA, Lincoln Center’s Restart Stages, Kennedy Center Millennium Stage, and MACY’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, to name a few. She’s currently on the director's team for The Messenger at Palm Beach Dramaworks and will next be choreographing Cabaret at Center Repertory Company.  In today’s episode, Jessica discusses the ins and outs of establishing her own dance company, what she looks for in cast members and collaborators in her commercial theater projects, and the kind of supportive environment she establishes as a leader, and requires from others. The Jessicas dive into what it means to be truly safe in a working environment, how they have been taken advantage of in the past, and how fearful yet important it is to use their voices to address issues within the industry.   Jessica C. then flips the mic and asks Jessica A. questions about her own healing journey and what comes next.  Follow along on Jessica’s journey: @jessicachen.arts Transcript available on our ⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠⁠! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/storyproject/support

Kristin Yancy is an actor/dancer/singer/creator living in Brooklyn. Her long list of theater credits include Summer, The Donna Summer Musical and The Cher Show on Broadway, Guys and Dolls at the Kennedy Center, Gaslight with the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company, and playing Roxie in Chicago directed by Patrick O' Neill.  In today’s episode, Yancy talks about not going to college for dance and how she got into professional shape when she first moved to NYC, how she finds fulfillment in between jobs by creating her own work including her own immersive theater company, and how to navigate the heartbreak that comes with rejection.  She also describes how she insists on bringing joy into her training, how she works hard to create a sustainable career for herself, and the necessity of figuring out what brings you out of a funk, which for her includes taking classes and lessons, walking around the city… and mac and cheese.  *A note from Yancy on MinuteZero: At the time of this interview, my co-founders and I had decided to close the business, and transition into spending more time on our individual projects. But we hadn't yet announced it publicly! This conversation with Jess now represents one of the last really in-depth conversations I had about the company, and it's pretty cool to have it recorded. P.S. My co-founders and I still love each other, and still work together!-- just in a less formalized, more free and independent format :) Follow along on Yancy's journey: @kristinyancy Transcript available on our ⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠⁠!  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/storyproject/support

Daisy Infantas-Lagdamen is a bicoastal professional dancer who can be seen dancing in the films In The Heights and Hocus Pocus 2, as well as working for top choreographers and directors such as Luz Frias, Luam, Bo Park, Jon Rua, Neil Shwartz, Ian McKenzie, and Candace Brown.  In today’s episode, Daisy discusses what was required of her on her path from training to professional work, how past trauma still influences her current dance journey, and the importance of shifting from external to internal validation.  She also voices the deep connection between students and teachers, how it is vital to find and fight for what fuels you, and how to practice grace both with yourself and others. Follow along on Daisy's journey - @d.flo_ Transcript available on our website! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/storyproject/support

Austin Sora is a professional dancer who has showcased her versatility through theater, concert dance, music videos, commercials, and work in the nonprofit sector. Her career has included performing in The Phantom of the Opera National Tour, dancing at Jacob’s Pillow with Bruce Wood Dance, assisting Marguerite Derricks, choreographer of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, and becoming the Program Manager for the Broadway Green Alliance.  In today’s episode, Austin shares how experiences in her youth impacted her dancing long term, how her serious injury impacted her perspective on dance, and the unexpected joy of her simultaneous career in the nonprofit sector.   Austin and Jessica discuss the need to find and fight for supportive environments, the difference that kindness makes in audition rooms, and they both share their most embarrassing singing audition stories. Follow along on Austin’s journey: @austin.sora Transcript available on our ⁠⁠website⁠⁠! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/storyproject/support

Gabrielle Sprauve is a freelance dance artist and model who danced for Ballet Hispánico and is a founding and ongoing member of PARA.MAR Dance Theatre. She's performed in renown venues and festivals around the world, and has been featured on PBS and CBS, at the Kennedy Center, and in publications such as the New York Times and Dance Magazine. In today’s episode, Gabrielle describes her journey towards advocacy, what it takes to speak up for yourself and those around you, and what is required of a leader.  She also expresses what challenges she had to overcome in her training and professional life, the environment she creates for her own students, and what gifts can come from taking risks.  Follow along on Gabrielle’s journey: @gabriellesprauve_ Transcript available on our ⁠⁠website⁠⁠! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/storyproject/support

In this solo episode, Jessica Altchiler gives a peek into her own story as she follows up on her conversation with Nando Morland. She shares a profound memory with him that sparked reflection on complicated relationships with movement, the importance of vulnerably sharing our stories, and how we can find rituals that best support our entire selves. Transcript available on our ⁠⁠website⁠⁠! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/storyproject/support

Nando Morland is a dancer, actor, and singer who has danced for Gallim, Madboots, and Punchdrunk’s Sleep No More. He has performed in the Broadway productions of West Side Story and Bob Fosse’s Dancin’, as well as the Fiddler on the Roof and Wicked National Tours.  In today’s episode, Nando describes his experience making his Broadway Principal Debut, the feelings that arise after a show closes, and how he maintains a healthy relationship with his career.  He also expresses his relationship with movement and his body, what he values both as a performer and an audience member, and what he is currently healing in his life. Follow along on Nando’s journey: @nandomorland Transcript available on our ⁠⁠website⁠⁠! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/storyproject/support