#Intimacycoordinator #Intimacychoreographer #CircusArts #Consent #Liveperformance  For More Info: https://www.rjintimacy.com On this episode of the Circuspreneur Podcast, host Shenea Stiletto interviews Rebecca Johannsen who is an Intimacy Coordinator and educator specializing in performer safety, consent, and communication across live and filmed entertainment — including circus, theatre, and dance. With a Ph.D. in theatre and decades of experience as a producer, director, and performer, Rebecca brings a collaborative and trauma-informed approach to creating safer rehearsal and performance spaces. She leads the Intimacy Choreography for Live Performance certification program through the Intimacy Professionals Association and has become a trusted advocate for artists working in high-risk and movement-based disciplines. Her work bridges the worlds of performance, psychology, and education — ensuring that creative expression and performer well-being go hand in hand.

#VegasVarietyCircusFestival #Circus #LasVegasEvents #CircuspreneurPodcast In this episode of the Circuspreneur Podcast, we celebrate the return of the Vegas Variety Circus Festival, happening October 22–27 in Las Vegas. Following the success of its 2024 debut, the Festival promises an even more extraordinary showcase this year: * Awe-inspiring circus performances ✨ * Innovative and daring new acts 🎭 * Stunning visuals and international artistry 🌍 But beyond the spectacle, the Festival stands for something bigger: * Global cultural exchange – bringing together artists and audiences from every corner of the world. * Community and economic impact – enriching Las Vegas' cultural landscape and driving tourism. * Social responsibility – for every ticket sold, a donation supports transformative programs for foster children. 🌟 The Visionaries Behind the Festival Maxim Popazov – Founder & Entrepreneur Maxim Popazov carries forward the legacy of the Popazov-Koch Russian circus dynasty, a family tradition spanning more than 150 years and seven generations. A globally recognized hand-balancing artist, Maxim is celebrated for three unique performances: * Hand Balancing on a Pedestal, inspired by Anatoly Zalevsky. * The Advocate, a book-themed act choreographed by Ruslan Ganeev. * Chair Balancing, directed by Valentin Gneushev. Maxim has performed on the world's most prestigious stages, including Circus Krone (Munich), Monte Carlo International Circus Festival, Swiss National Circus Knie, Royal Theater Carré (Amsterdam), World Christmas Circus (Stuttgart), and Friedrichstadt-Palast (Berlin). His artistry also captivated millions on America's Got Talent, where all four judges voted him through to the Judge Cuts. Currently based in Las Vegas, Maxim has been a celebrated original cast member of "Absinthe" at Caesars Palace since 2011. His vision of creating an international circus festival came to life in 2024 with the launch of the Vegas Variety Circus Festival, featuring a distinguished jury including Dr. Alain Frère, co-founder of the Monte Carlo International Circus Festival. Julia Makarova – Artistic Director & Co-Founder Julia Makarova is a fourth-generation circus artist whose aerial performances have earned her international acclaim. She has appeared on television around the world, with her most memorable moment on Britain's Got Talent, where Simon Cowell declared her "the best aerialist he had ever seen." Julia has won top honors at some of the most prestigious international festivals, including the Festival Internacional del Circ Elefant d'Or (Spain), International Circus Festival of Italy Latina, and the Chimelong Hengqin International Circus City Festival (China). As Artistic Director, Julia combines her heritage and global achievements with a passion for innovation. She leads a team of talented artists who bring the Festival's productions to life, ensuring every performance embodies both tradition and modern creativity. 🎟️ Why It Matters The Vegas Variety Circus Festival is not just a show—it's a movement. By celebrating circus as both heritage and innovation, Maxim and Julia are creating an event that inspires wonder, builds community, and strengthens Las Vegas as the world's entertainment capital. 👉 Learn More & Get Tickets: https://vegasvarietycircusfestival.com 👉 Subscribe for more Circuspreneur insights.

#Circusagreements #Circuspartnerships #Circuspreneur #CircusBiz Partnerships are the lifeblood of many circus acts, but what happens when things don't go as planned? In this episode of the Circuspreneur Podcast, host Shenea Stiletto dives into the importance of partnership agreements for circus professionals. From protecting creative work to ensuring financial fairness, these agreements act as a safety net for both business and artistry. What You'll Learn * Why partnership agreements are essential in the circus industry * Common challenges: injuries, relocations, financial disputes, and creative conflicts * Key protections every agreement should include: * Roles & responsibilities * Income & expense sharing * Intellectual property rights * Exit and buyout strategies * Real-world scenarios where agreements prevent chaos and preserve trust Why It Matters Without clear agreements, partnerships can unravel, leading to lost income, broken trust, and disputes over creative ownership. With agreements in place, performers can focus on what matters most—artistry, collaboration, and building lasting careers. Call to Action Subscribe to the Circuspreneur Podcast for more insights on balancing creativity and business in the circus world. Don't forget to like, comment, and share this episode to support fellow circus professionals.

#WorldAcro #Acrobatics #HallofFame #CircusLegends #Gymnastics The Circuspreneur podcast, hosted by Shenea Stiletto, went live at the prestigious World Acro Society Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony held in Las Vegas. This special episode featured exclusive interviews with the 2025 legends being inducted from around the globe, celebrating their remarkable achievements and contributions to the world of acrobatics and related disciplines. Learn more about the Legends Achievements: https://worldacro.com/gallery-of-legends-hall-of-fame/ World Acro Youtube Page: https://www.youtube.com/@worldacro/videos 2025 Hall of Fame Inductees- Leslie Bush – Diving Legend Recognized for groundbreaking achievements in diving, Leslie Bush's career has inspired generations of athletes with her skill, dedication, and sportsmanship. Ron Galimore – Lifetime Achievement Award Honored for a lifetime of dedication to the advancement of acrobatics and gymnastics, Ron Galimore's influence spans decades, shaping the future of the sport. Tatiana Gutsu – Artistic Gymnastics Legend A trailblazer in artistic gymnastics, Tatiana Gutsu's performances and competitive spirit have left an indelible mark on the sport worldwide. Stacie Hansen – Charlie Pond Service Award Awarded for exceptional service and commitment to the acrobatic community, Stacie Hansen's contributions have elevated the standards of support and organization within the field. Steven Gluckstein – Tumbling/Trampoline Legend Celebrated for excellence in tumbling and trampoline, Steven Gluckstein's athleticism and achievements have set new benchmarks in these disciplines. Michael Rodrigues & Kristin Allen – Acrobatic Gymnastics Legends This dynamic duo has redefined acrobatic gymnastics through their innovative routines, teamwork, and championship titles, inspiring athletes worldwide. Gary Hedrick – Action Sports Legend A pioneer in action sports, Gary Hedrick's fearless approach and dedication have expanded the boundaries of what is possible in acrobatic action sports. Dr. Jerry Michael Cline – Golden Achievement Award Recognized for outstanding contributions and lifelong commitment to the advancement of gymnastics, Dr. Jerry Michael Cline's impact is felt across the community. Michel Rios & Medhi Rios (Rios Brothers) – Professional Acrobats The Rios Brothers have captivated audiences globally with their extraordinary acrobatic performances, showcasing artistry, strength,and innovation.

#ComedyLegend #CircusComedy #AcrobaticLegend #Mensgymnastics  WAS Hall of Fame Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=19WJkb8recs Attend World Acrobatics Society Congress 2025- https://worldacro.com On this episode of the Circuspreneur Podcast, host Shenea Stiletto interviews gymnastics and circus acrobatic comedy legend Bobby Dixon. Bobby began his entertainment career in water shows, sports shows, and half-time shows, performing comedy trampoline, tumbling, comedy P-bars, hand-balancing, comedy diving & high-diving, and even comedy flying trapeze. He was the "Head Clown" every year for the annual Dolphin Show at the University of Iowa. After the final Olympic Trials in 1972, Bobby studied comedy acrobatics with Iowa gymnastics legend, Larry Griswold, and began performing Larry's comedy act with a 3 meter diving board and a trampoline in 1973. Bob started out performing in gala shows and circuses. His first contract outside the United States was in a South African circus in 1974. From Africa he went to a season of amusement parks in Scandinavia and then to a Spanish circus for a couple of years. After that, he began expanding his possibilities to include other venues. From 1999 he also performed several visual comedy acts with his much funnier companion, best friend, and personal sports massage therapist for the past 40 years… his wonderful Dutch wife Anoushka. Bobby is an Acrobatic Legend and is now Associate Editor of ACROnews for the World Acrobatics Society, which has its upcoming congress in Las Vegas this coming September 5-7th and is open to the circus public.

#RougeShow #PoleArtist #SexiestShow #LasVegas  On this episode of the Circuspreneur Podcast, host Shenea Stiletto interviews Pole Artist and Rouge Show at the Strat original cast member, Yasilda Slonova. She was a finalist on So You Think You Can Dance Ukraine, received 4 YESES on Das Super Talent, was recognized with a special jury prize at the Monte Carlo 36th Festival with Circus Bingo, and has appeared on the acclaimed French television show " Patrick Sebastien."   Yasilda Slonova is an internationally awarded rhythmic gymnast, choreographer, and pole artist with over 15 years of experience in circus, dance, and stage performance. She was recognized for pioneering a pole act using light tissue as a unique visual and technical element.

#Circussmirkus #YouthCircus #CircusCamp #Circusaccident Contact Senator Blumenthal's office and urge him to support the SafeArt/SafeCircus Act: https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/contact/write-to-senator-blumenthal In this episode of the Circuspreneur Podcast, host Shenea Stiletto dives into a serious topic: preventable accidents in the circus industry. While the circus is known for its thrills and daring feats, behind the scenes, safety is a constant concern. Many accidents that make headlines could have been avoided with the right precautions. In this episode, Shenea Stiletto will explore the culture that leads to circus accidents, and why the need for increased safety and regulations within the industry is urgent. 

#MentalHealth #CircusHealth #Research #CircusStudy  In this episode of the Circuspreneur Podcast, host Shenea Stiletto interviews Dr. Melanie Stuckey, a researcher in human performance and social innovation at HUPR (Human Potential Research Centre) affiliated with the National Circus School in Montreal. Her main focus is on factors affecting human performance through the lens of inclusive, holistic well-being alongside social innovation to support the flourishing of individuals and communities. Melanie is the co-editor-in-chief of the Circus: Arts, Life, & Sciences journal, member of the Surveillance of Injuries for Research on Circus (SIRC) working group, and member of the Canadian College Research Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion Community of Practice Planning Committee. She is also a former pole dance and circus artist and coach.

#Mongoliancontortion #Contortionconvention #Circuspreneur #Contortion  On this episode of the Circuspreneur Podcast, host Shenea Stiletto interviews founder of the Mongolian Contortion Convention Erdenechimeg Jamiyan Janov also known as " Angelique Janov. " Angelique studied the art of contortion at the Mongolian State Circus, and became a professional contortionist in 1970. With over fifty years of experience, she made history by creating and performing the groundbreaking "Double Marinelli" Trick. She served as the coach and contortion expert for the Cirque Du Soleil show "O" in Las Vegas from 1998-2020. She has also received numerous awards from international circus festivals, such as the Queen of Contortion title, and the Merited Actress of Mongolia. In 2023, Angelique founded the Mongolian Contortion Convention, which will take place later this fall of 2025. Drawing on decades of teaching experience, Angelique authored the book Supple. The book covers the history and unique features of Mongolian contortion, and for the first- time provides a step-by-step instructions on key techniques. Angelique has also been a Board member of the Mongolian Contortion Association since 2016.

#Diddytrial #Diddycourtcase #Abuseofpower #Performingarts #Entertainment  On this episode of the Circuspreneur Podcast, host Shenea Stiletto discusses the recent verdict in the Diddy Trial, and how it speaks to the systematic abuses of power that are prevalent in the entertainment/performing arts industry, and how these often go unchecked. Shenea also highlights the need for more transparency and accountability within these industries. 

#Clown #AmericanClown #CircusArts #Clowns  On this episode of the Circuspreneur Podcast, host Sheneas Stiletto interviews writer, director, and circus documentarian Guilford Adams. American Clown is a feature-length documentary exploring the plight of clowns in a country that looks on them with a growing sense of apprehension and disdain. Guest appearances include John C. Reilly, Steve-O, David Arquette, and Matt Morgan. Guilford Adams has worked as a professional clown for nearly two decades. In recent years, he's watched media reports of "clowns" terrorizing neighborhood streets at night, the reboot of "IT" and Pennywise, the shuttering of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus and the unceremonious end to the regional Ronald McDonald program, where "assistants" to Ronald appeared at grand openings, community events and elementary school shows. Guilford was one of those dismissed assistants to Ronald. As he felt the culture shifting, he started thinking about what it might mean for him, his family and all of his clowning comrades. The film follows Guilford's quest as he surveys the current state of clowning with his friends who are also struggling to adapt, as well as legendary performers of past eras and their take on the history and art of clowning. American Clown premieres today at the Chinese theater in at the Los Angeles Dances with Films Festival.

#Circusinjuries #CircusResearch #Circusmedicine #CircusArts  On this episode of the Circuspreneur Podcast, host Shenea Stiletto interviews founder of Artletic Science Dr. Stephanie Greenspan. Dr. Stephanie Greenspan earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy from the University of Southern California. Her post-graduate training included residencies in orthopedic and neurologic physical therapy, and a fellowship in orthopedic manual therapy. She is a board certified specialist in both orthopedic and neurologic physical therapy, and an Associate Professor of Physical Therapy at Samuel Merritt University. As a clinician she works with recreational to professional dancers and circus artists with a focus on decreasing injury risk and optimizing performance. This includes working as the physio for the resident 7 Fingers show "Dear San Francisco" at Club Fugazi since it's installation in 2021. Stephanie brings her background as a dancer, aerialist, aerial coach, and researcher into her clinical practice. She also offers workshops and wellness screenings for pre-professional and professional training programs including Spire pre-professional program at Kinetic Arts Center in Oakland, FlyCo at AWOL Dance Collective and the Elements Training Company at the Circus Project, both in Portland, Oregon. Her research focuses on the study of injuries and movement in the circus arts.

#NEA #NationalEndowmentForTheArts #CircusArts #Circus  Please consider Signing our Change.org Petition Seeking Circus Arts Recognition in the U.S:   https://www.change.org/CircusArtsRecognition On this solo episode of the Circuspreneur Podcast, host Shenea Stiletto discusses the recent impacts to the Circus Arts industry after the National Endowment for the Arts was forced to cancel Arts Grants awarded all across America. The current Administration is also seeking to issue a zero budget for the NEA moving forward, and Shenea Stiletto discusses what efforts are being made in Congress to prevent this. Plus how do these recent developments affect pursuing Circus Arts Category Recognition in the U.S by the NEA. 

#RollerSkater #CancerSurvivor #MentalHealthAwarenessMonth Support Trey Knight's GOFUNDME for Ongoing Medical Expenses: https://gofund.me/a2969401 On this episode of the Circuspreneur podcast honoring Mental Health Awareness Month, host Shenea Stiletto interviews World Champion Artistic Roller Skater, Founder of Stilt world, and Stage Four Cancer Survivor Trey Knight. Trey Knight is a six time National Champion Artistic Roller Skater, who has worked with mega celebrities such as Gwen Stefani, Katy Perry, and Usher. After approximately 1.5 years of severe pain and several misdiagnoses, he was finally diagnosed in October 2019, where he found himself already in stage 4 cancer, which included the primary tumor, involvement of three lymph nodes, and a small tumor in his right lung. Trey started harsh chemotherapy the Friday following the seven-show run of Debbie Allen's annual Christmas show, "Hot Chocolate Nutcracker." Just a few months before the COVID shutdown in March 2020, which led to the cancellation of sporting events and entertainment gigs. In this powerful episode, Trey bravely discusses nearly six years of treatments, his optimistic outlook on life as a creative, and the support of the Circus and Entertainment community during his time of need.

#WorldCircusDay #CircusDay #Circus #CircusArts On this special episode of the Circuspreneur Podcast, host Shenea Stiletto celebrates World Circus Day, and reflects on the importance of representing the Circus Arts industry all over the world. 

#Acrobatics #Nominations #HallofFame #CircusArts #Acro  Please consider Signing our Change.org [http://change.org/] Petition Seeking Circus Arts Recognition in the U.S: https://www.change.org/CircusArtsRecognition Discover: https://worldacro.com On this episode of the Circuspreneur Podcast, host Shenea Stiletto interviews World Acrobatics Society Secretary and Chairperson for the Gallery of Legends Hall of Fame Stacie Hansen. The World Acrobatics Society (WAS) is an exciting, growing world-wide organization whose members share a love of acrobatics. Their mission is to advance the education, communication and cooperation among all individuals and organizations interested in fostering the growth, development and safety of the various acrobatic disciplines along with preserving their histories. Shenea Stiletto  and Stacie Hansen discuss the nomination process In the lead up to the upcoming Hall of Fame Class of 2025 announcement in April. Tune in to learn how you can nominate an Acrobatic Legend for 2026, and attend the Induction Ceremony happening in Las Vegas Sept. 2025. 

#Congressional #RAINN #TakeitDown On this special episode of the Circuspreneur Podcast, host Shenea Stiletto discusses her participation in RAINN's upcoming Congressional Day of Action in Washington D.C. The Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network is an American nonprofit anti-sexual assault organization, the largest in the United States. Shenea will use her experience as a Survivor of USA Gymnastics to advocate for the following bills, TAKE IT DOWN ACT, SHIELD ACT, DEFIANCE ACT, PROTECT OUR CHILDREN ACT, NO TIME LIMITS ACT,  Protect Our Children Act, the Debbie Smith Grant Program, and RAINN Hotline funding. 

#VIVAFEST #LASVEGAS #Circusfestival #Podcast  Tell Congress to Support the National Endowment for the Arts  in Recognizing the Circus Arts As An Official Art Form 👇🏽   https://www.change.org/CircusArtsRecognition On this special episode of the Circuspreneur Podcast, host Shenea Stiletto goes live at this years Viva Fest in Las Vegas. The Vegas International Variety Act Festival is for Circus Professionals and Amateurs to compete, meet, and learn under a bigtop in Las Vegas. Tune in for interviews with Special Guest Arthur Morel Van Hyfte, Viva Fest Judge and Aerial Clinician, and Adam Vazquez founder of local Las Vegas Circus School  Integral Arts. 

#DuoCyrWheel #CircusFestival #WorldChampion  Please Sign & Share our  @changeorg  petition to support the Circus Arts Industry in a Historic way ! 🎪          Tell Congress to Support the National Endowment for the Arts  in Recognizing the Circus Arts As An Official Art Form 👇🏽 https://www.change.org/CircusArtsRecognition On this episode of the Circuspreneur Podcast, host Shenea Stiletto interviews Lea Toran Jenner of Duo Unity, who with her partner Francis Perreault, are an innovative Circus Cyr Wheel Duo. Duo Unity is currently performing at the prestigious Moulin Rouge in Paris, and is fresh off of their invitation to compete at the Festival International du Cirque de Monte-Carlo in Monaco. Their other accomplishments include winning the Bronze Medal at the prestigious Festival Mondial du Cirque de Demain, and the Silver Award at the Budapest Lyrical Circus Festival.

#NIL #Circus #Collegegymnastics #Cirquedusoleil  On this episode of the Circuspreneur Podcast, host Shenea Stiletto discusses the opportunities available to competitive gymnasts beyond their Olympic Dreams in the form of NIL, Collegiate Gymnastics, or the Circus and Performing Arts.  Please Sign & Share our  @changeorg  petition to support the Circus Arts Industry in a Historic way ! 🎪          Tell Congress to Support the National Endowment for the Arts  in Recognizing the Circus Arts As An Official Art Form 👇🏽 https://www.change.org/CircusArtsRecognition