The Resilient Dance Teacher Podcast

Reed Cech
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Performing Arts
  • Updated Weekly

This podcast is for dance educators who want to grow into stronger, more confident teachers—so they can better support, inspire, and elevate their students. Each episode is filled with simple, practical tools and real-life strategies—from mindset and intention setting to lesson planning and studio insights—designed to help you show up prepared, grounded, and effective in every class you teach. Because when you feel clear, creative, and supported, your students feel it too. It’s time to strengthen your teaching, expand your impact, and give your students the experience they deserve.

  1. 20h ago

    24 - Feeling stuck? Let's get re-inspired as a dance educator.

    Are you heading into a new season of teaching feeling stuck, creatively drained, or overwhelmed by too many ideas? You're not alone. In this episode, we're talking about simple, practical ways to reconnect with your inspiration and reignite your passion as a dance educator. Whether you're planning classes, creating choreography, or simply looking for a fresh mindset, this episode will help you refocus your creativity with actionable strategies you can start using right away. In this episode, we'll discuss: Why getting organized can create more space for creativity.How hobbies and experiences outside of dance can make you a stronger artist and teacher.Simple ways to refresh your perspective, from taking a nature walk to exploring a museum or learning a new skill.A powerful monthly reflection practice: choosing one thing to let go of, one thing to call in, and one thing to "research" as you continue growing as an educator.Remember, inspiration isn't something you have to wait for—it's something you can intentionally cultivate. Join me for a conversation that will help you step into your next teaching season feeling energized, curious, and ready to create. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow dance educator who could use a little creative spark. Happy dancing! Join my mailing list: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/resilientnewsletter  Order your copy of the RDT Reboot: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/reboot  RDT Website: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/homepage  Email me: reed@theresilientdanceteacher.com Let’s connect on Instagram! @theresilientdanceteacherpod

  2. Aug 13

    23 - A Conversation on Dance Teaching, Adjudicating & Finding Balance (with Alice Bruter)

    In this special guest interview, I sit down with fellow dance educator Alice Bruter to discuss the lessons that have shaped her teaching journey. From rediscovering dance after stepping away from it, to navigating the challenges of starting a teaching career, we explore the experiences that have influenced her approach in and out of the studio. We also dive into her perspective as a dance competition adjudicator, what she's learned from watching dancers take the stage, and the advice she wishes she could give her younger dancer self. Whether you're a new teacher, an experienced educator, or simply passionate about dance, this conversation is full of honest reflections, encouragement, and practical wisdom. Let's dive in! Join my mailing list: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/resilientnewsletter Order your copy of the RDT Reboot: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/reboot Email me: reed@theresilientdanceteacher.com Instagram - @theresilientdanceteacherpod

  3. Aug 6

    22 - Leading With Kind Authority As A Dance Educator

    In this episode, we're diving into what it really means to teach with kind authority. How do you create a classroom where students respect you, feel safe, and are inspired to grow—without relying on fear, harshness, or losing the professional boundaries that help everyone thrive? If you've ever found yourself wondering, "Am I being too strict?" or "Am I being too lenient?" you're not alone. Whether you're a brand-new dance teacher or have years of experience, finding the balance between warmth and leadership can be one of the most challenging parts of teaching. In this conversation, I share lessons I've learned throughout my own teaching journey, including how to: Clearly communicate expectations in a way that feels encouraging rather than intimidating.Lead with curiosity before jumping to consequences when challenges arise.Build trust and respect through consistent, professional conduct.We'll also talk about why discipline and empathy can coexist, how healthy boundaries create a positive studio culture, and why calm, confident leadership ultimately benefits both you and your students. If you're looking to cultivate a classroom built on mutual respect, professionalism, and genuine joy for learning, this episode is for you. Join my mailing list: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/resilientnewsletter Order the RDT Reboot: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/reboot Email me: reed@theresilientdanceteacher.com

  4. Jul 30

    21 - (Pt. 2 with Brandon Coleman) - The Spaces We Choose: Performing History, Teaching, and Finding Your Path

    Welcome back for Part 2 with Brandon Coleman! If you missed episode 20, I highly recommend going back to listen to it before this episode for a little more context on where we are picking up from. Brandon is a wonderful NYC-based choreographer, educator, and performer with so much knowledge and experience to share, and I just really appreciated our conversation. In part 2 we explore: finding your path in your dance teaching careerperforming historydance teaching experiencesand MORE! Join my email list: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/resilientnewsletter

  5. Jul 23

    20 - (Pt. 1 with Brandon Coleman) - Navigating Early Career, Building Connections, and Teaching Mixed-Level Classes

    Welcome to episode 20! On this first time two-part series on the RDT podcast, I sit down with Brandon Coleman. Brandon is an NYC-based choreographer, educator, and performer. He is a former cast member and rehearsal director for Punchdrunk’s SLEEP NO MORE in NYC and has worked with companies including Visceral Dance Chicago, KEIGWIN + COMPANY, the Metropolitan Opera ballet, VIM VIGOR Dance Company and Hubbard Street Dance Chicago. Brandon currently leads classes at Steps on Broadway and Peridance in NYC and has been commissioned by various contemporary companies and universities across the country. In Part 1 we discuss numerous elements of the dance world including: early careernavigating connectionsbecoming a dance teacher inspired by those who shaped our individual journeysand MORE! Email me: reed@theresilientdanceteacher.com RDT Website: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/homepage Join my mailing list: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/resilientnewsletter Connect with Brandon: @itsbrandoncoleman (Instagram)

  6. Jul 16

    19 - Simple Ways to Make Every Student Feel Seen

    Every student wants to know they matter—and as dance teachers, we have more influence than we often realize. In this episode, I'm sharing simple, intentional ways to help every student feel seen, valued, and supported in your classroom. Reflecting on my own experiences as a student, I talk about the lasting impact of feeling overlooked versus receiving genuine encouragement, and why the little moments of connection can shape a dancer's confidence for years to come. We'll discuss practical strategies you can start using right away, including: Using every student's name alongside meaningful, body-neutral positive feedbackIncorporating mental and emotional check-insCreating opportunities for one-on-one connection during classUsing reflection prompts to better understand your students' goals and challengesBuilding a classroom culture where healthy friendships and belonging can flourishMaking space for creativity, exploration, and playThese practices may seem small, but they can have a profound impact on the way your students experience your classroom—and themselves. Whether you teach preschool dancers or pre-professionals, this episode will encourage you to lead with intention and create an environment where every student feels like they belong. Join my mailing list: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/resilientnewsletter Order your copy of the RDT Reboot: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/reboot Email me: reed@theresilientdanceteacher.com

  7. Jul 9

    18 - 5 Tips to Owning Your Unique Dance Teaching Style

    In this episode, we're exploring how to define and confidently own your teaching style so you can lead your classes with authenticity, purpose, and confidence. We'll discuss ways to clarify the experience you want your students to have, identify the energy you bring into every class, establish healthy professional boundaries, and embrace the artistic voice that feels most natural to you. We'll also talk about why your students don't need a copy of another teacher—they need the version of you that teaches with heart, intention, and confidence. Whether you're just beginning your teaching journey or looking to reconnect with your purpose, this conversation will help you step into your role with greater clarity of your teaching philosophy. In this episode, you'll learn: How to define the experience you want your students to leave with.Why your personal energy shapes every class you teach.The importance of setting healthy, professional boundaries.How to embrace your authentic artistic voice while continuing to grow.Why discovering your teaching style is an ongoing journey—not something you have to perfect overnight. Join my mailing list: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/resilientnewsletter RDT Reboot: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/reboot Download Dance Philosophy Template: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1T0PpjAu5g4XTZ4juVwqWL89BjRAfvm4P/view?usp=sharing Website Homepage: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/homepage

  8. Jul 2

    17 - The Holistic, Authentic Approach to Dance Teaching (ft. Shannon Dooling-Cain)

    In this episode, I sit down with Shannon Dooling-Cain, the founder of The Holistic Dance Teacher to explore what it truly means to take a holistic approach to dance education. Moving beyond the latest buzzword, we unpack how teaching the whole dancer—not just their technique—can create more confident, creative, and resilient students. We discuss tools and strategies that every dance teacher can use to support their students' physical, emotional, and personal development, the career experiences that inspired the creation of The Holistic Dance Teacher, and simple changes teachers can make to bring more intention into every class. We also dive into the role of play and exploration in dance training, including dance games that foster creativity, connection, and learning. Whether you're a dance teacher looking for fresh inspiration or passionate about creating meaningful learning experiences, this conversation is packed with practical ideas and thoughtful insights to inspire you! Join the newsletter: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/resilientnewsletter Email me: reed@theresilientdanceteacher.com RDT Products: https://www.theresilientdanceteacher.com/educational-resources

See All (25)

Trailer

About

This podcast is for dance educators who want to grow into stronger, more confident teachers—so they can better support, inspire, and elevate their students. Each episode is filled with simple, practical tools and real-life strategies—from mindset and intention setting to lesson planning and studio insights—designed to help you show up prepared, grounded, and effective in every class you teach. Because when you feel clear, creative, and supported, your students feel it too. It’s time to strengthen your teaching, expand your impact, and give your students the experience they deserve.

Information