Michael Bearden, Director of the University of Oklahoma School of Dance, joins us to talk about what makes OU’s program stand out. With three distinct tracks—ballet, modern, and pedagogy—OU offers a robust performance schedule, new choreographic opportunities, and wellness support for its students. We dig into the admission process, scholarship landscape, and what career outcomes look like for OU grads. Michael also shares advice for dancers choosing between college and company life, and gives insight into how public university dance programs are navigating ongoing funding cuts.

Learn more about OU's Dance Program

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https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future

License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI

Allison DeBona took the road less traveled—college before company—and it led to a successful ballet career. In this episode, she breaks down why she chose Indiana University, what she gained from the experience, and how the college route stacks up against full-time conservatory training. We talk about career outcomes, adjustment challenges, and shifting industry perceptions around college ballet programs. She also answers whether or not she would choose the same path again. If you're weighing college offers against trainee spots, or wondering what kind of future the college path can offer, Allison brings clarity—and candor.

If you're a college student, be sure to check out the artÉmotion Collegiate Ballet Summer Intensive that Allison and Rex Tilton run.

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Music from #Uppbeat:

https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future

License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI

Pointe shoe fittings can feel like a mystery—but Riley Weber, a well-known pointe shoe fitter for Nikolay, is here to break it all down! In this episode, we talk about what to expect at a fitting, how to tell if a fitter knows what they’re doing, and why dancers shouldn’t just settle for “fine.” Riley addresses common fitting issues (like sinking!), the truth about toe pads, and why some shoes are impossible to get in stock. Plus, we get into listener questions on hypermobility, online fittings, crazy pointe shoe hacks, and more.

If you're a dancer, parent, or just pointe shoe curious, this episode is packed with insights (and some wild fitting stories). Tune in!

Learn more about Riley:

Instagram: @rileythomasweber
TikTok: rileythomasweber

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Music from #Uppbeat:

https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future

License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI

Boys in ballet face unique challenges—but also unique opportunities. In this episode of #NoThirds, Fran Veyette gets real about training, summer intensives, scholarships for boys, and what needs to change to better support young male dancers on their journey.

• Learn more about Fran and Veyette Virtual Ballet School

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Music by Sergio Prosvirini from Pixabay

Before stepping onto pointe, make sure you're ready. Dr. Selina Shah, a sports and dance medicine specialist, shares what dancers and parents need to know— from the ideal starting age to strength exercises, medical evaluations, and the impact of hypermobility. With experience treating professional dancers, Broadway performers, and Olympic athletes, she also offers tips on working with fitters, toe pads, and turnout to ensure a safe transition to pointe.

• Learn more about Dr. Shah:

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Music from #Uppbeat:

https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future

License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI

Pacific Northwest Ballet School operates differently from many other company-affiliated programs. In this episode, Denise Bolstad, Managing Director of PNB School, breaks down what sets it apart. We explore the structure of the Professional Division, how dancers are selected, training expectations, performance opportunities, and the path from PD to the main company. Denise also shares insights on recruitment, summer intensive considerations, and how PNB supports dancers who don’t get promoted. If you're interested in PNB’s Professional Division, this episode is a must-listen!

• Learn more about Pacific Northwest Ballet School
• Read Summer Reviews of Pacific Northwest Ballet School
• Read Year-Round Reviews of Pacific Northwest Ballet School

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Music from #Uppbeat:

https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future

License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI

Elizabeth Yntema and Tracey Bonner, from the Dance Data Project, join us to discuss their mission to shine a light gender inequity in ballet. They share how their data-driven research highlights gaps in leadership roles, how parents and dancers can use their findings, and the changes they've seen since launching the organization. Hear how DDP is working to create a more inclusive ballet world — and what steps they believe are still needed.

Learn More about the Dance Data Project on their website

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Music from #Uppbeat:

https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future

License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI

Tai Jimenez, Director of the Dance Theatre of Harlem School, joins us to discuss her journey in ballet and her vision for training the next generation of dancers. She breaks down the school’s structure, why DTH remains an afterschool program, her plans for future growth of their trianing programs as well as how they help students transition into professional careers. We also explore the current job market, the challenges of rebuilding boys’ programs post-COVID, and DTH’s efforts to change perceptions about male dancers. Plus, in our Ballet Lightning Round, Tai shares pivotal moments from her own training, the best advice she ever received, and what excites her about the future of ballet.

Learn More about the Dance Theatre of Harlem School on their website

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Music from #Uppbeat:

https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future

License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI