Kick Ball Change Podcast

Kick Ball Change Podcast

Join in to the Kick Ball Change Podcast, and discover how artists from all around the world have used their "step backs" as their power to move forward in their goals and dreams.

  1. 1d ago

    Kick Ball Change with William “Bill” Waldinger ; Honoring the Legacy of Luigi | Kick Ball Change Podcast

    What happens when an unexpected path leads you to a legendary teacher who changes the way you move, teach, and see the world? In this episode of Kick Ball Change, we sit down with William “Bill” Waldinger, dance educator, performer, master teacher, and faculty member at Joffrey Ballet School in New York City. Bill’s journey is a powerful reminder that there is no single path to a life in dance. His connection to the legendary jazz dance pioneer Luigi began a lifelong journey of learning, movement, and mentorship. After studying with Luigi for 23 years and receiving his certification to teach Luigi’s groundbreaking jazz technique, Bill has made it part of his mission to preserve and share this extraordinary legacy with future generations of dancers. With a career spanning classical ballet, jazz, musical theatre, and performance, Bill brings a wealth of experience to his work as an educator. But beyond the credits and accomplishments is a deeper story about finding your place, recognizing the impact of a mentor, and understanding the responsibility that comes with carrying someone’s work forward. Join us as we explore how one unexpected turn can shape a career, why the teacher-student relationship can leave a lifelong imprint, and what it means to honor the past while inspiring the future. Because sometimes, your path isn't about becoming who you thought you would be. It's about discovering who you are meant to become.

    Kick Ball Change with William “Bill” Waldinger ; Honoring the Legacy of Luigi | Kick Ball Change Podcast
  2. 2d ago

    Kick Ball Change with Julie Kay Stallcup: A conversation about movement, resilience, and finding your rhythm through life’s unexpected turns.

    without. In this episode of Kick Ball Change, I sit down with Julie Kay Stallcup, known for her work with LA Dance Magic and now the founder of her own company and mastermind dedicated to supporting dance teachers. Julie opens up about one of life's hardest lessons: learning to let go of a studio and a friendship because she knew there was more growth waiting for her. It's a powerful reminder that sometimes the next chapter requires us to release the familiar, trust ourselves, and take that leap forward. “Growth doesn't happen when you're sitting. It happens when you're dancing.” We also dive into the importance of honesty in the dance world. How can teachers give honest feedback that helps dancers grow? How do we create environments where constructive criticism builds confidence instead of breaking it down? And what role do parents play in helping young dancers navigate challenges? One of my favorite takeaways is the importance of parents learning to listen first, rather than speak first. Sometimes, the most supportive thing we can do is give our children the space to process their own experiences before stepping in with our opinions. This conversation is about so much more than dance. It's about knowing when it's time to move on, having the courage to be honest, embracing change, and allowing ourselves and others the space to grow. Whether you're a dance teacher, studio owner, dance parent, or someone navigating a personal or professional transition, this episode will remind you that growth requires movement, honesty, and the willingness to take the next step. Tune in to Kick Ball Change with Julie Kay Stallcup — because sometimes, the best thing you can do is change direction and keep dancing.

    Kick Ball Change with Julie Kay Stallcup: A conversation about movement, resilience, and finding your rhythm through life’s unexpected turns.
  3. Jun 30

    How a martial arts move Spinkick opened doors for Brian BT Thomas

    BT reflects on his journey from feeling like he didn't belong to discovering the power of being fully present. He shares how embracing mindset, resilience, and self-belief helped him navigate the "kick-ball-changes" of his career, turning uncertainty into opportunity and healing through life's biggest transitions. In a true full-circle moment, BT recounts the incredible path from auditioning to dance with the King of Pop to eventually becoming one of Michael Jackson's choreographers—a testament to perseverance, growth, and trusting the process. Today, BT channels his passion into creating powerful dance films through Spinkick Pictures, where movement becomes a vehicle for storytelling, transformation, and hope. He discusses his collaboration on Amy's Victory Dance, the remarkable story of Amy Jordan. On May 1, 2009, Amy—a former professional dancer based in New York City—was struck and run over by a 15-ton NYC Express bus, leaving her pinned beneath the wheel with devastating injuries that crushed her right leg. As she regained consciousness, her first thought was, "Am I ever going to dance again?" Her second was, "If I survive the night, there will be a Victory Dance." This conversation is about far more than dance. It's about identity, resilience, purpose, and the courage to stay present through life's most pivotal moments. Whether you're an artist, entrepreneur, athlete, or anyone navigating change, BT's story is a powerful reminder that our greatest transformations often begin when we stop striving to belong and simply allow ourselves to be fully present.

    How a martial arts move Spinkick opened doors for Brian BT Thomas

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Join in to the Kick Ball Change Podcast, and discover how artists from all around the world have used their "step backs" as their power to move forward in their goals and dreams.