In this episode of Athletistry: Ballet Evolution, Shane Wuerthner dives deep into the mindset dancers need heading into competition season. Inspired by the story of The Way of the Peaceful Warrior, he unpacks the myth of the "outcome" and why obsessing over results robs dancers of the joy they’ve earned.
You’ll walk away with a grounded, powerful mindset to approach your next performance — not with fear, but with purpose.
🎯 If you've ever felt anxious before walking onstage, this one's for you.
⏱️ Chapters & Timestamps:
00:00 – Welcome back
01:30 – The inspiration: Way of the Peaceful Warrior
03:00 – The flower, the rock, and the real lesson
05:10 – Why dancers fear outcomes — and how to shift it
07:00 – The power of setting expectations instead of goals
08:45 – What to say to yourself before stepping on stage
10:30 – Releasing perfectionism and replacing it with joy
11:30 – Why fear creates panic—and how to stop living in “what ifs”
12:30 – Final mindset reminder for dancers heading into comps
In this episode of Athletistry: Ballet Evolution, Shane Wuerthner dives deep into the misunderstood world of artistry in ballet—what it is, how it develops, and why telling dancers to “show more artistry” is often unhelpful and misdirected.
Shane unpacks his personal journey with artistic growth, shares insights from his time dancing Vronski in Anna Karenina, and breaks down how life experience, emotional maturity, and mentorship shape an artist over time. He also explores how competitions and training environments may unintentionally limit expression by hyper-focusing on technique.
You’ll learn:
Why artistry shouldn’t be expected equally from every age level
How technique, musicality, and storytelling evolve in stages
What teachers can do to nurture expression without pressure
The power of watching professionals—and how to watch them
Why artistry is less about adding more and more about refining what’s already there
Whether you're a student trying to find your voice, a teacher looking to guide dancers more effectively, or a professional reflecting on your own path—this episode will challenge how you think about performance, training, and the true role of artistry in ballet.
🎥 Artistry Workshop Replay – Watch Here
An hour-long deep dive into how artistry develops across stages of a dancer’s career.
💬 Let’s Keep the Conversation Going:
Tag @athletistry and share what part of artistry you’re focusing on this week—headline? musicality? the space between the steps?
Chapters
00:00 Understanding Artistry in Dance
08:28 The Journey of Artistic Development
15:14 Embracing the Artistic Process
17:28 podcast outro.mp4
Keywords
artistry, dance, ballet, performance, storytelling, technique, expression, training, development, critique
In this episode ofAthletistry Ballet Evolution, Shane Wuerthner takes a deep dive into the world of ballet competitions. Do they truly pave the way for a successful career, or are they just another high-stakes performance that rewards tricks over artistry?
Shane shares his personal journey through the competition circuit—from his early days in tap to major ballet competitions like YAGP and the Helsinki International Ballet Competition. He reflects on the lessons learned, the pressures of competing, and why he ultimately realized that winning wasn’t the key to his professional career.
Through candid storytelling and expert insight, Shane explores:
Whether you’re a dancer striving for a gold medal, a teacher guiding students through the competitive landscape, or a ballet lover curious about the inner workings of the industry, this episode challenges common perceptions and offers a fresh take on what truly makes a professional dancer.
Tune in, share your thoughts, and join the conversation! Do you think competitions are essential for success? Let’s discuss!
Takeaways:
Competitions can provide valuable exposure for young dancers.
Winning isn't everything; the experience matters more.
Artistic integrity should be prioritized over competition results.
The pressure of competition can be damaging to young artists.
Ballet is about storytelling, not just technical skill.
Group performances should be valued in competitions.
The process of preparation is as important as the outcome.
Competitions can foster networking opportunities in the industry.
Dancers should focus on their unique artistic voice.
Rethinking competition formats could enhance the ballet experience.
Chapters
00:00 The Role of Competitions in Ballet
10:10 Personal Experiences with Competitions
20:10 The Value Beyond Winning
Summary
In this episode, Shane Wuerthner shares his journey from a young ballet dancer to a professional in the dance industry, and his transition into fitness and personal training. He discusses the challenges he faced after his dance career and how they led him to create Athletistry Academy, a comprehensive dance training facility that integrates academics and professional training. Shane emphasises the importance of community engagement and collaboration in making dance accessible and enriching for future generations.
To support the future of dance and the creation of Athletistry Academy click below to read more and donate to the development.
Summary
In this episode, Shane Wuerthner discusses the evolving landscape of dance and its perception through social media. He reflects on a recent Instagram post that sparked varied reactions, highlighting the subjectivity of art and the impact of audience feedback. Shane emphasizes the importance of communication in dance, the role of critique, and the balance between technique and emotional expression. He invites listeners to engage in a dialogue about the nature of art and its reception in today's digital age.
Takeaways
The way we communicate as artists is evolving with social media.
Audience feedback can significantly influence artistic expression.
Subjectivity in art leads to diverse interpretations and reactions.
Critique can come from anyone, regardless of their background in the art form.
The relationship between technique and emotional response is complex.
Artistic expression is a calling that must be communicated.
Communication in art is an imperfect process that requires understanding.
The fourth wall between artist and audience is breaking down.
Engaging with dissenting opinions can foster meaningful dialogue.
Finding balance between objective technique and subjective experience is essential.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Conversation
05:38 Subjectivity in Art and Dance
10:58 Navigating Critique and Communication in Dance
16:18 Conclusion and check out Athletistry Academy
In this episode, Shane Wuerthner reflects on his recent experiences in Malaysia and Singapore, where he observed the training and discipline of dancers. He emphasises the importance of respect for teachers and the history of the art form. Shane discusses the need to balance discipline and respect with modern approaches to training, such as proper conditioning and support for dancers' body image. He also addresses the issue of ageism in ballet and the importance of allowing dancers to mature and develop their artistry. Shane concludes by highlighting the significance of storytelling and historical context in ballet performances.
Chapters
00:00 Observing Dance Training in Malaysia and Singapore
02:57 The Importance of Respect and Discipline
07:21 Balancing Tradition and Modern Approaches to Training
09:14 Challenging Ageism in Ballet
14:40 The Significance of Storytelling in Ballet Performances
Summary
The conversation discusses the topic of partnering in ballet. The host emphasises that the focus should be on technique rather than weight. He shares his own experience with partnering, starting at a young age and the challenges he faced. He highlights the importance of teaching boys how to put girls on their leg and find balance. The host also discusses the physical strength and muscle development required for partnering, as well as the coordination and communication between partners. He emphasizes the importance of trust, relationship, and technique in creating beautiful art on stage.
Takeaways
The focus in partnering should be on technique rather than weight.
Teaching boys how to put girls on their leg and find balance is important in partnering.
Physical strength and muscle development are necessary for partnering in ballet.
Coordination and communication between partners are crucial in partnering.
Trust, relationship, and technique are key in creating beautiful art on stage.
Chapters
00:00 The Importance of Technique in Partnering
01:25 Supporting and Training Young Men in Partnering
07:57 The Role of Trust and Communication in Partnership
Summary
In this episode, Shane discusses the progression of skills and how they apply to ballet. He shares his experience transitioning from dance to personal training and the importance of coaching and imparting knowledge. Shane explains the four levels of competency in skill development: unconscious incompetence, conscious incompetence, conscious competence, and unconscious competence. He also emphasizes the need for patience, kindness, and effective communication in teaching and learning. Overall, the episode highlights the complexity of teaching movement and the importance of understanding individual learning styles.
Takeaways
Skill development involves progressing through four levels of competency: unconscious incompetence, conscious incompetence, conscious competence, and unconscious competence.
Teaching movement requires breaking down skills and understanding the fundamentals.
Effective communication in coaching involves understanding individual learning styles and adapting teaching methods accordingly.
Patience, kindness, and consistency are essential in imparting knowledge and skills.
Understanding the psychology of others and connecting with students is crucial in coaching and teaching.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:58 Progression of Skills in Ballet
06:44 Fundamental Ballet Skills
08:09 Effective Communication and Learning Styles
09:34 Patience, Kindness, and Consistency
10:29 Conclusion and Call to Action
Summary
The conversation discusses the issue of body image and dysmorphia in the dance world. It highlights the harmful effects of the industry's emphasis on a specific body shape and size. The host shares personal experiences of being criticised for being too thin and the pressure to conform to a certain standard. The conversation also explores the different body compositions and morphologies of individuals and how training in specific sports or activities can shape the body. The historical development of the ideal dancer's body is examined, and the need to shift the focus from appearance to health and technique is emphasised.
Takeaways
The dance industry's emphasis on a specific body shape and size can lead to body image issues and dysmorphia.
Individuals have different body compositions and morphologies, and training in specific sports or activities can shape the body in different ways.
The historical development of the ideal dancer's body has contributed to the pressure to conform to a certain appearance.
The focus should shift from appearance to health and technique, and dancers should be supported in developing strength and understanding of their bodies.
Chapters
00:00 The Harmful Effects of Industry Standards
02:06 Personal Experiences and Body Composition
05:59 Historical Development of Body Ideals
07:55 Unnecessary Criticism and Division
10:46 Shifting the Focus: Health and Technique
11:11 Creating a Healthier and More Inclusive Industry
Summary
In this podcast episode, Shane discusses the importance of artistic expression in dance competitions and the challenges dancers face in developing their artistry. He emphasizes the need for dancers to understand and portray emotion, narrative, and connection in their performances. Shane also explores the idea of dancers explaining their role development and character understanding to judges, sparking a debate about the role of voice in dance. He highlights the significance of punctuation in dance and the stages of development in becoming an artist. Shane concludes by advocating for the integration of master artists into dance spaces to guide and inspire the next generation of artists.
Takeaways
Artistic expression is important in dance competitions, but it can be challenging for dancers to understand and develop.
Dancers should strive to portray emotion, narrative, and connection in their performances.
Explaining role development and character understanding to judges could enhance dancers' understanding and portrayal of their roles.
The use of voice in dance is a topic of debate, with some advocating for dancers to speak about their roles and others believing that dance should be a narrative in itself.
Punctuation in dance, such as pauses and emphasis, can enhance the storytelling and artistry of a performance.
Becoming an artist in dance is a process that involves stages of development, from student to dancer to artist to master.
Integrating master artists into dance spaces can help guide and inspire the next generation of artists.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Welcome Back
02:03 Defining and Developing Artistry
03:54 The Role of Communication and Punctuation
06:48 Stages of Development: From Student to Artist to Master
10:02 The Need for Exposure to High-Level Artists
12:49 Integrating Masters into Dance Spaces
Keywords
artistic expression, dance competitions, artistry, emotion, narrative, connection, role development, character understanding, voice in dance, punctuation in dance, stages of development, master artists
Follow me on Instagram
Summary
In this conversation, Shane Wuerthner shares his dream of creating a 21st century training institute for ballet in Australia. He envisions three pathways: pre-professional elite education, education for young dancers who have a love for ballet but may not want a professional career, and a space for adults to develop an understanding of dance. Shane believes that by expanding access to dance and creating a future generation of respect and love for the art form, ballet can remain relevant and valued in society. He invites others to join him in creating this space and fostering open conversations.
Takeaways
Shane's dream is to create a 21st century training institute for ballet in Australia.
He envisions three pathways: pre-professional elite education, education for young dancers who have a love for ballet but may not want a professional career, and a space for adults to develop an understanding of dance.
By expanding access to dance and creating a future generation of respect and love for the art form, ballet can remain relevant and valued in society.
Shane invites others to join him in creating this space and fostering open conversations.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:47 Three Pathways for Dance Education
06:12 Expanding Access to Dance
07:01 Understanding the History and Culture of Ballet
09:24 Creating Respect and Love for Ballet
11:49 Building a Community for Deeper Conversations
13:17 The Vision for the Future
14:39 Conclusion and Call to Action
Summary
In this episode, Shane Wuerthner discusses the confusion surrounding the concept of performing class. He shares his personal experiences and the feedback he received from teachers and choreographers. Shane emphasises the importance of precision and discipline in dance, both in the studio and on stage. He highlights the idea that performance is the culmination of the work done in the studio and that dancers need to approach their classwork with clarity and intention. Shane also explores the challenge of balancing technique and artistry, emphasizing the need for dancers to master their technical skills in order to fully express themselves artistically.
Takeaways
Performing class requires precision and discipline.
Precision in technique is essential for effective storytelling and artistry.
Classwork is the foundation for performance.
Balancing technique and artistry is a challenge that requires consistent practice and discipline.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
00:28 The Confusion of Performing Class
01:26 The Importance of Precision and Discipline
04:14 The Challenge of Balancing Technique and Artistry
07:00 The Importance of Precision in Performance
07:59 Performing Class: Precision and Discipline
09:14 Utilising Precision to Enhance Artistry
09:44 Conclusion
Summary
In this episode, Shane explores the power of dance as a physical representation of music and its connection to the universe. He discusses the language of dance and its ability to communicate emotions and desires on a deep level. Shane emphasizes the importance of authentic expression in dance and the role it plays in connecting with the vibrations of the universe. He also highlights the communicative responsibility of dance and the need for emotional expression in performances. Ultimately, Shane encourages dancers to embrace dance as a vehicle for expressing the harmonic resonance of the universe.
Takeaways
Dance is a powerful physical representation of music and a connection to the universe.
Authentic expression in dance allows for a deeper connection with the vibrations of the universe.
Dance communicates emotions and desires on a non-verbal level, surpassing spoken language.
Dance has a communicative responsibility to fulfill the emotional desires of the audience and connect with the harmonic resonance of the universe.
Chapters
00:00 The Power of Dance and Music
06:06 The Language of Dance
09:16 Authentic Expression in Dance
12:09 Connecting with the Universe through Dance
13:09 The Communicative Responsibility of Dance
16:27 Dance as a Vehicle for Expression
*Please be aware this podcast includes discussion of eating disorders and body dysmorphia. Listener discretion is advised.*
Summary
In this conversation, Lucy Christodoulou and Shane Wuerthner discuss the impact of body image on dancers and the need for comprehensive support in dance education. They highlight the contradictory aesthetic expectations for male and female dancers and the importance of performance psychology and proper training. They emphasize the role of collaboration and advocacy in the dance industry and the importance of balancing dance and personal development. Lucy shares her own experiences with eating disorders and how she has used her journey to empower and support other dancers. They encourage dancers to seek support and prioritize their overall well-being. In this conversation, Shane and Lucy discuss the importance of mental health, common mental health challenges, seeking help and support, stigma and misconceptions, and self-care and coping strategies. They emphasize the need for open conversations about mental health and the importance of seeking professional help when needed. The conversation highlights the impact of stigma on individuals seeking help and provides practical tips for self-care and managing mental health.
Takeaways
The focus on body image in dance can lead to unhealthy behaviours and eating disorders. It is important to prioritise overall well-being and seek support.
The contradictory aesthetic expectations for male and female dancers can create body image issues and impact their mental and physical health.
Comprehensive support, including performance psychology and proper training, is essential for dancers' success and well-being.
Collaboration and advocacy are crucial in improving the dance industry and providing dancers with the support they need.
Dancers should prioritise personal development and balance their lives outside of dance to enhance their overall performance and happiness. Mental health is important and should be cared for
Common mental health challenges include anxiety, depression, and stress.
Seeking help and support is crucial for managing mental health.
Stigma and misconceptions surrounding mental health can prevent individuals from seeking help.
Self-care and coping strategies are essential for maintaining good mental health.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:00 The Impact of Body Image on Dancers
11:36 The Contradictory Aesthetic Expectations for Male and Female Dancers
20:18 The Need for Comprehensive Support in Dance Education
25:09 The Importance of Performance Psychology and Proper Training
28:57 The Role of Collaboration and Advocacy in the Dance Industry
39:02 The Importance of Balancing Dance and Personal Development
42:32 Connecting with Lucy Christodoulou
02:30 The Importance of Mental Health
10:15 Common Mental Health Challenges
20:45 Seeking Help and Support
30:10 Stigma and Misconceptions
38:20 Self-Care and Coping Strategies
44:02 Conclusion
Summary
In this episode, Caitlin Sloan shares her journey from classical ballet to contemporary ballet and how she found her true passion. She discusses the challenges of transitioning to a different path and the importance of taking risks and trusting your gut. Caitlin also talks about her transition to coaching and mentoring dancers, offering advice for those looking to pursue professional careers. She provides insights on how to get into company class auditions and encourages dancers to ask for help and make personal connections. To learn more about Caitlin and her mentoring services, visit her website or follow her on social media.
Takeaways
Transitioning from classical ballet to a different style can be challenging but ultimately rewarding.
It's important to trust your instincts and pursue what truly makes you happy, even if it means deviating from your original plan.
Asking for help and making personal connections can greatly enhance your chances of success in the dance industry.
When reaching out to companies for auditions, personalize your communication and show genuine interest in their work.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
01:00 Transition from Classical to Contemporary Ballet
04:00 Challenges of Pursuing a Different Path
08:32 Taking Risks and Trusting Your Gut
17:42 Transition to Coaching and Mentoring
21:28 Advice for Dancers Transitioning to Professional Careers
23:27 Getting into Company Class Auditions
31:57 Contacting Caitlin Sloan for Mentoring
Summary
In this conversation, Shane Wuerthner interviews Jessica Spinner from The Whole Dancer. They discuss the importance of balance and self-care in the dance world, the challenges of transitioning out of dance, and the benefits of having a life outside of dance. They also touch on the limitations of identifying solely as a dancer and the need for a holistic approach to dance training. Jessica shares her coaching approach for dancers and offers advice for young dancers in training and dancers in transition. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the importance of self-discovery, self-compassion, and seeking outside support in the dance journey.
Takeaways
Chapters
00:00Introduction and Storytelling
02:24The Impact of Self-Criticism in Dance
05:30The Importance of Balance and Enjoyment in Dance
06:23Transitioning Out of Dance
08:46The Limitations of Identifying Solely as a Dancer
10:12Expanding Skillsets and Rediscovering Yourself
13:28The Importance of a Holistic Approach to Dance
15:26The Benefits of Having a Life Outside of Dance
17:26The Coaching Approach for Dancers
20:41The Challenges of Full-Time Dance Programs
23:21Finding Balance in Intense Training Environments
26:41Making Hard Choices and Seeking Outside Support
29:31Choosing the Right Dance School
35:32Advice for Young Dancers in Training
38:55Advice for Dancers in Transition
42:08How to Connect with Jessica Spinner
Follow Jessica on Instagram at @thewholedancer
Find out more about her work with dancers on her website www.thewholedancer.com
In this episode titled 'Plie Perspectives,' Shane Wuerthner shares his insights and experiences as a dancer and coach. He emphasises the importance of going above and beyond what is expected in order to achieve success in a dance career.
Shane discusses the need to know when to pull back and find balance, as well as setting intentions and focusing on improvement. He also highlights the importance of being part of a team and showing initiative. Shane shares personal stories of setbacks and challenges, and encourages listeners to push boundaries and challenge their comfort zones. He concludes by urging listeners to take action and assess their progress.
Takeaways
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Plie Perspectives
01:27Starting Out in a Dance Career
03:46 Going Above and Beyond
06:03 Knowing When to Pull Back
07:23 Setting Intentions and Focusing on Improvement
09:09 Avoiding Overworking and Finding Balance
10:35 Being Part of a Team and Showing Initiative
11:33 Dealing with Setbacks and Challenges
16:18 Pushing Boundaries and Challenging Comfort Zones
17:08 Putting Effort in the Right Places
19:32 Taking Action and Assessing Progress
19:59 Conclusion and Call to Action
In this inspiring episode of "Athletistry Ballet Evolution" we interview 14-year-old ballet prodigy Daisy Sexton. Daisy shares her journey of overcoming a major ACL injury at 11 and the challenges she faced in the demanding world of ballet training. She discusses her recovery, her innovative approach to training, and her excitement about her upcoming full-time ballet training with Sander Blommaert in the UK. Daisy also reveals her aspirations to join her dream company, The Royal Ballet. Join us for this intimate conversation, unveiling the resilience and passion of a young dancer poised for greatness.
Be sure to follow Daisy's journey on Instagram here @_dancingwithdaisy_
In this enlightening episode of Athletistry Ballet Evolution, host Shane Wuerthner engages in a captivating conversation with Dr. Jemimah Simms @doctorwhodances on instagram, a seasoned physical therapist with a rich background in dance and personal training. Titled "Harmonising Movement and Healing: Navigating the Dance of Physical Therapy in Ballet," this episode delves deep into the often-overlooked realm of injury prevention, rehabilitation, and the essential role of physical therapy in the world of dance.
Listeners will embark on a journey through personal anecdotes and professional insights, as Shane and Dr. Simms share their experiences with injuries and the profound impact these have had on their approaches to movement and health. The episode challenges common misconceptions in the dance community, particularly around the severity and finality of injuries, shedding light on how they can be a path to greater understanding and resilience rather than career-ending events.
Key discussions centre on the critical importance of proper rehabilitation, strength training, and an in-depth understanding of body mechanics. This is not just about recovery; it's about empowering dancers to enhance their performance and extend their careers. Dr. Simms emphasises the need to treat dancers as athletes, deserving of specialised care and training tailored to their unique physical demands.
Further, the episode explores the evolution of dance training and healthcare, advocating for a more anatomically informed approach in dance education. It underscores the necessity of a collaborative environment where healthcare professionals and dancers work hand in hand, creating a supportive network that caters to the specific needs of the dance community.
Whether you're a dancer, a physical therapist, or someone fascinated by the intersection of art and science in the realm of physical performance, "Harmonising Movement and Healing" offers valuable insights and a fresh perspective on the integral role of healthcare in the art of ballet.
Find out more about Dr. Simms at her website: https://www.fluidmotionphysicaltherapy.com/
In this insightful episode of "Athletistry Ballet Evolution," host Shane Wuerthner delves into the nuances of professional ballet training through a comprehensive Q&A session. Shane shares his expert advice on the ideal age to begin full-time ballet training, the necessity of intensive practice, and tips for creating impactful audition videos. He emphasizes the importance of balancing physical training with academic pursuits, preparing for the rigors of a dance career, and the implications of early training on physical development and injury prevention. Furthermore, Shane addresses goal setting in ballet, offering a unique perspective on aligning emotional elements with aspirations to foster progress and success. The episode culminates with Shane recounting a personal story from his teenage years, revealing the challenges of bullying in the ballet world and the profound impact it had on him. His narrative underscores the importance of kindness and support in competitive environments, resonating with anyone navigating the complexities of ballet training and personal growth. Tune in for an episode filled with practical advice, emotional depth, and valuable insights for dancers at all stages of their journey.