She's just a dancer artwork

She's just a dancer

67 episodes - English - Latest episode: over 1 year ago -

Two world champion dancers discuss the glitz, glamour, sweat and tears of the wonderful world of professional dancing. She's Just a Dancer takes a look behind the scenes and discovers what it took successful female dancers to reach the top of their game in the performing arts industry. Fun episodes about the glittery side of dancing alternate with some real talk about discrimination, eating disorders and psychological pressures of a professional dancer's career and make the listener realise just what it takes to be successful in our world. Musical theatre, ballet, acting, singing and dancing are what we're passionate about- welcome to our world!

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Episodes

Work Life Balance

November 30, 2022 16:00 - 40 minutes - 27.7 MB

How do you balance your professional and private life? Is it more or less difficult for those of us who are in the entertainment & arts industry? There are many books, lectures, and experts out there who can give you professional advice on the subject but today we're here to tell you as it is- we're horrible at it!  Take the first baby steps towards a somewhat balanced life in this episode and feel free to have a laugh at how utterly awful we are at juggling our busy professional schedules w...

A memorable summer

September 20, 2022 06:00 - 27 minutes - 18.9 MB

In this bonus episode (yes, we have another one coming up this Thursday!) we look back on what has probably been one of the most exciting summers ever for us. From bringing dance events back to life in Italy to dancing on a reunion tour- we've been up to all sorts of things. What's it like when you perform a show that you know will probably be one of the last of your career? How does it feel to be standing on the floor judging one of the biggest dance events in the world- one you have danced...

The Queen

September 10, 2022 16:00 - 31 minutes - 22 MB

Queen Elizabeth II is dead but her memory will live on forever. This memorable time has made us look back on those special female dancers and performers who have inspired us during our careers- our very own queens of dance and performing arts. Our way of paying tribute to the late Queen is to talk about the remarkable women we looked up to and still do so every day. You can see the video of Bobby Irvine MBE lecturing here. Listen to all episodes here. Follow our Instagram for all the upda...

Growing up with dance today- what's it like?

September 01, 2022 17:00 - 40 minutes - 28.1 MB

Having a hobby, a sport, art, or any other activity you love is fundamental for every child and teenager out there. You've heard what it was like growing up on the dancefloor for us both and what it took to become world champion dancers and performing arts professionals. But what's it like growing up in the world of dance today? The pros and cons? Does it make you see the world differently and does it guide your priorities? Find out today as we're joined by a young dancer named Elin who shar...

Valda Aviks, a force of life

August 20, 2022 14:00 - 52 minutes - 36.1 MB

Valda Aviks is like everyone's favourite grandmother...if the said grandmother would be a singing and acting legend that is bursting with energy and humor. From Germany to the USA, Canada to Austria, Moscow to London- Valda has lived her life on the biggest stages of the world. Talking about her decade-spanning career,  what's it like performing Cats in German, and what it takes to be a part of a long-running show. This episode was impossible to wrap up and hopefully you'll enjoy it as much ...

Living with Osteoarthritis- Joanne's story

May 24, 2022 05:00 - 36 minutes - 25.1 MB

Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage that cushions the ends of bones in your joints gradually deteriorates. It's more common in older people, but through wear and tear due to high workload, it can appear at any age. What happens when a dancer gets diagnosed with early-onset osteoarthritis? Your career, your whole life depends on your body working as it should- what happens when it doesn't? Joanne has been diagnosed with osteoarthritis in 2015 and she's here today to share her experience...

The Dance Psychologist Is Back!

May 06, 2022 13:00 - 38 minutes - 26.5 MB

We're joined by our fave dance psychologist Lucie Clements to talk some more about performance anxiety, where it comes from and how to start dealing with it. A super important episode for every performer, do join us and enjoy the show!

Matt Cole and his world of dance

April 20, 2022 05:00 - 47 minutes - 32.6 MB

Matt Cole is an Olivier Award-nominated Choreographer and the founder of LONDON THEATRE RUNWAY,  a musical theatre training and connectivity programme for industry professionals. Today he sits down with us to talk about his work and what is THAT special something he looks for when choosing his dancers. What makes you stand out and does technique win over performing skills? Find out today. Also guys, our MasterClass is back in London at Pineapple Studios on 1st May! We're soooo looking forwar...

What to do when it all gets too much

April 15, 2022 09:00 - 38 minutes - 26.8 MB

In today's episode: Why we've been missing in action, how to deal with times when it all gets too much to handle, and an exciting announcement!  We all have times when our schedules seem to require 8-day weeks and 36-hour days and today we're talking about what's our way of dealing with (or trying to) with over-filled schedules and stress. We're back to our weekly episodes now, so thank you for your love and patience :) Our 2nd MasterClass is back at Pineapple Dance Studios London and live...

A VERY delayed episode!

March 30, 2022 11:00 - 28 minutes - 19.4 MB

Apologies everyone but due to an absolutely crazy month of March we've been missing in action. Today we're back with a long-overdue episode that we recorded on 8th  March, right after our London Masterclass took place. Joining us is the amazing Ruth Mair Howard Jones of the Jones Ballet- enjoy!

Performance anxiety and why mental health matters

February 22, 2022 06:00 - 36 minutes - 25.2 MB

It happens to everyone- whether you're on stage for the very first time or a star; chances are you'll experience performance anxiety at some point in your career. Today we're talking about Jo's recent experience and trying to find out why there seem to be situations where performing is harder than normal. Our minds are tricky things and the best chance we have of being successful, happy, and healthy is to get to know ourselves and take care of our mental health. Our shesjustadancer.com webs...

Surviving injury and a funny story

February 15, 2022 16:00 - 42 minutes - 29.4 MB

This episode is quite something! Not only is our friend and showbiz powerhouse Gary Lee back, you'll hear us losing it a few times during the show- it was impossible not to as he tells it like it is about his recent injury. Why are we laughing at an injury? We're not, listen and you'll understand:) From coming back on stage after lockdown to starring in a hit Everybody's Talking About Jamie and then suffering what could have been a career-ending injury- Gary's sharing it all and being his us...

Lindsay Atherton and her Magnetic Movement

February 08, 2022 12:00 - 42 minutes - 29.2 MB

The pandemic has been awful for the performing arts industry-shows canceled, theatres closed, and the uncertainty of shows reopening just to close down again. But in the case of Lindsay Atherton it has been the catalyst for a one-of-a-kind idea- a platform for performers to train, share their experience and improve their skills online.  Thus Magnetic Studios were born - an endless choice of classes, seminars, and workshops on more topics than we can mention. A dancer, choreographer, and busi...

Performing during covid times, our MasterClass is happening and a new website!

February 02, 2022 06:00 - 37 minutes - 26.1 MB

Hello world, welcome to Season 2 of your fave performing arts podcast! During our break from recording we've done lots of shows and events and today we're telling you about what's it been like performing during covid times. Also- our MasterClass is FINALLY happening and we'll have a new website for you to check out very soon! This is the first of Season 2 episodes and we can't wait for you to hear all of them! Follow us on Instagram for daily updates!

Season 2 is coming!

January 28, 2022 13:00 - 58 seconds - 721 KB

It's Season 2! A year ago our podcast was just an idea but a year later and after over 50 episodes we're starting the second season of our show! Our guest line up is as amazing as ever and this season we'll be diving deeper into some of the  most common challenges performers face: injury, dealing with rejection, body dysmorphia, eating disorders and dealing with success. Serious chats and entertaining episodes sprinkled in between- there's lots to look forward to! We start on 2nd February! ...

Highlight 5: Ed Watson MBE

December 16, 2021 10:00 - 46 minutes - 31.7 MB

Another of our favourites from Season 1 is Ed Watson MBE, the longest-serving principal dancer of The Royal Ballet and an absolutely amazing performer. We spoke to Ed before his retirement about his career, what's it like growing up as a male dancer and how he changed the stereotypical view of what a principal dancer should look like forever. Follow Joanne Clifton & Tjaša Vulič (@shesjustadancer) • Instagram photos and videos for daily updates!

Live podcast episode! Our plans and New Year's resolutions

December 15, 2021 20:00 - 38 minutes - 26.3 MB

Today's episode is very special as we were joined by some of our listeners who chatted to us about their goals and dreams for 2022. We spoke about where we're taking the podcast next, what we're hoping to achieve and, most importantly, do New Year's resolutions work? As always make sure you're following us on Joanne Clifton & Tjaša Vulič (@shesjustadancer) • Instagram photos and videos for daily updates and don't forget to enter our Christmas giveaway, all info in the post on our grid :)

Highlight 4: Janette Manrara & Katya Jones

December 12, 2021 10:00 - 41 minutes - 28.5 MB

These two ladies need no introduction- our dear Janette and Katya are bona fide powerhouses of dance. Both super successful and with enviable careers as TV personalities and pros on Strictly Come Dancing they chatted to us about the importance of goal-setting. Here are some episode highlights, enjoy! Follow us on Joanne Clifton & Tjaša Vulič (@shesjustadancer) • Instagram photos and videos for daily updates and join us LIVE on 15th December at 6.30pm GMT by signing up for your free Zoom link...

Festive Season of Performers

December 11, 2021 18:00 - 25 minutes - 17.5 MB

Most of us love Christmas and many say that December is their favourite month of the year. But when you're a performer, it's usually also the busiest time of the year. What's it like being a dancer, actor or singer during the festive season? How do you fit Christmas into a busy schedule on stage? And for those who are not from the UK- what IS panto?? Find out today! Our LIVE ZOOM podcast recording is happening on 15th December at 6.30pm GMT! Email [email protected] to get your FREE l...

Highlight 3: Dame Arlene Phillips

December 08, 2021 16:00 - 53 minutes - 36.9 MB

How do you choose just a few moments from a conversation with Dame Arlene Phillips? You can't. This is why for our third season 1 highlight we're re-sharing the whole episode we recorded with this showbusiness legend. Dancer, choreographer, presenter, talent scout, director...there's just nothing this amazing, inspirational woman can't do. Can we please be her when we grow up?  Follow our instagram Joanne Clifton & Tjaša Vulič (@shesjustadancer) • Instagram photos and videos for daily episo...

Gift Guide for Dancers

December 07, 2021 15:00 - 23 minutes - 16 MB

What are the best Christmas presents to buy for your friends or family members who are dancers and performers? What are the things that will truly be useful and make our aching feet feel better (hint hint). Today we talk about the ultimate gift guide for dancers and you can read more detail about suggested items on our blog BLOG - LT-Dance.eu tonight! Make sure you follow our Instagram page Joanne Clifton & Tjaša Vulič (@shesjustadancer) • Instagram photos and videos to enter our fantastic C...

Highlight 2: Kevin Clifton & Luca Bussoletti

December 04, 2021 15:00 - 31 minutes - 21.4 MB

Today we're looking back to the very first He's Just a Dancer episode, where we mix it up and chat to inspirational male performers. Luca won two World Professional Championship titles, is an international coach, adjudicator, choreographer and- Tjaša's partner. Kevin Clifton, the star of Strictly Come Dancing, Burn the Floor, Singing in The Rain and Rock of Ages and- Jo's big brother. They joined us for a chat all about their experience growing up as male dancers and a hot topic of why the w...

A Huge Giveaway, Live Zoom Podcast Recording and New MasterClass date!

December 03, 2021 15:00 - 15 minutes - 10.4 MB

Welcome back to She's Just a Dancer Christmas Countdown! Today we're telling you all about the amazing prizes we're giving away as part of our Christmas Giveaway- make sure you listen to this episode and follow us on Instagram to find out how to enter! Ballroom gowns, MasterClass tickets, private lessons and more are up for grabs, so make sure you enter. Also- find out why you most definitely need a Santa hat this December and what's happening on the 16th!  Follow us Joanne Clifton & Tjaša V...

Highlight 1: Oti Mabuse

December 02, 2021 18:00 - 11 minutes - 8.08 MB

Our first ever guest was Oti Mabuse- the dancing, presenting, entertaining powerhouse who is going from strength to strength in her incredible career. From training in South Africa, to moving half way across the world for dancing and breaking out of the "you're a dancer, stick to it" box, here are the highlights from our conversation. Enjoy!

Christmas Is Coming to She's Just a Dancer!

December 01, 2021 15:00 - 1 minute - 1.1 MB

Ho Ho Ho and all of the December vibes are happening here on our show! Tune into our merry December where we'll bring you an episode EVERY SINGLE DAY- looking back to what has been an amazing year for our podcast, bringing you some of our fave moments, new episodes and exciting giveaways! Make sure you listen and let's get into that Christmas spirit together! Follow us on instagram for daily updates and giveaway info Joanne Clifton & Tjaša Vulič (@shesjustadancer) • Instagram photos and vid...

The Idea Mindset

November 30, 2021 13:00 - 45 minutes - 31.1 MB

We are joined today by Gary Crotaz PhD who talks about his new book The IDEA Mindset- a book that takes you on a journey to discover your perfect work life. What drives you? What are your real priorities and what is your true work identity like? Find out today as we chat to a brilliant man who has had a most diverse and fascinating career path. Did we mention that he was a professional ballroom dancer? No? Well, he most certainly isn't Just A Dancer! The Idea Mindset is available on pre-ord...

Cambridge PhD while dancing...can it be done?

November 23, 2021 06:00 - 33 minutes - 23.2 MB

Oh, now you're off to university you better kiss your dancing goodbye...you want to be a successful student? Stop performing and focus on your studies..Right? Wrong! We are joined today by Marta Tomaselli and Katjana Lange, two brilliant ballroom dancers who have danced their hearts out while studying for their Phd at Cambridge no less. How did they do it? Was it hard? And would they be as successful academically as they are have it not been for their dancing? Find out today. Join the discu...

Is it a man's world?

November 10, 2021 14:00 - 47 minutes - 32.6 MB

Mirjam Zwijsen joins us on the podcast today to talk about the importance of women supporting women, her experience of flying the flag for strong females in dance world and why it's still a man's world out there. Multiple ballroom dance champion, international teacher and adjudicator and, most importantly, a role model for dancers everywhere. Get in touch at [email protected] and follow us on insta!

Burnout: what is it and Tjasa's story

November 02, 2021 06:00 - 54 minutes - 37.3 MB

What is burnout and why does it happen? What are the signs and how to avoid it- today we're back with a bit more of a serious episode, but we think it's an important one. Tjasa shares her experience with burnout, why it happened and what it felt like. A condition more common than you think in today's busy world, burnout is quite common amongst performers.  Join our dance family by following us on instagram Joanne Clifton & Tjaša Vulič (@shesjustadancer) • Instagram photos and videos and let...

Best things & our MasterClass!

October 26, 2021 11:00 - 31 minutes - 21.4 MB

What's the best part of being a dancer? What's the one thing we love most about our teaching? We discuss why we still get nervous about doing lectures and performing and tell you all about our upcoming London MasterClass-our first ever! Follow us on instagram Joanne Clifton & Tjaša Vulič (@shesjustadancer) • Instagram photos and videos and reach us on [email protected]

Does non-stop hustle work?

October 19, 2021 07:00 - 42 minutes - 29.6 MB

Today we're joined by our fabulous friend Ruth Mair Howard-Jones and her ballerina daughter Agnes who is well on her way to achieve her goal of becoming a prima ballerina at one of the most prestigious dance companies in the world. At just 16 Agnes has already earned her ARAD and the mother- daughter team are here today to talk about the importance of not pushing yourself too hard...sounds strange? Not at all-tune in to learn about why non-stop hustle definitely isn't the way to go. Follow ...

Jo&Tjaša: Best Advice Ever

October 05, 2021 08:00 - 42 minutes - 29.4 MB

"Be a nice person" is the advice our podcast guests have given most often during our chats. But what does it mean? Smiling all of the time? Accepting people walking all over you? How can you be "nice" all of the time and what does it have to do with being successful? We believe in the power of treating people with respect and attracting positivity with positivity- find out how it can work for you. Get in touch via [email protected] and give us a follow on insta @shesjustadancer

Technique is not an opinion, our rant and a new way to reach us

September 28, 2021 08:00 - 32 minutes - 22.5 MB

Today we're having a little rant. Apologies for a somewhat negative episode, but as dancers who were trained for decades based on fundamental notions of posture, efficiency of movement and biomechanics of the human movement we are very passionate about preserving the basics of our dancing. On a positive note-  we have a new email address where you can send us your thoughts, comments and suggestions. Reach us at [email protected] and give us a follow on insta @shesjustadancer

Off-stage Swing and why everyone should do it

September 21, 2021 04:00 - 34 minutes - 23.7 MB

Is it a new dance that is danced off stage we hear our non-actor listeners ask. No- the off-stage swing is an incredibly talented person who basically saves the day whenever an injury, illness or simply a day off stops the actors/dancers cast in shows to perform. In comes the off-stage swing- they have to learn up to eight roles of the show they're working on and be ready backstage at all times to step in whenever the need arises. Eight! Our guest Agnes Pure tells us why this is such a deman...

Regrets & would we do things differently

September 14, 2021 05:00 - 46 minutes - 32.2 MB

For our 30th episode we're looking back on our careers and talking about things we maybe regret not doing, what if anything we would have done differently and what would be our message to our younger selves. They say there's power in hindsight but would changing things end up changing the outcome of our career? 

What's it like for the parents?

September 08, 2021 06:00 - 43 minutes - 30 MB

As dancers and performers we get so tied up in our training, successes and failures, that we often forget there are some very special people who are with us every step of the way and who make our career possible- our parents. Today you'll hear from two "dancing mums" who share what's it like to be on the other side, supporting their children through thick and thin and helping them navigate their careers. Alice and Hayley are here to tell us what's it like for the parents and show that the re...

Mildred is back! How do you find your superpower?

August 31, 2021 07:00 - 59 minutes - 41.1 MB

Our favourite talent agent is back! Mildred Yuan gets serious and explains her framework of finding your superpower and how that can shape your career and help you find success. What is your superpower? What does it take to be great and does everyone have talent? Follow Mildred Mildred Yuan (@mildredyuan) • Instagram photos and videos and  join our She's Just a Dancer Family She’s Just a Dancer Podcast (@shesjustadancer) • Instagram photos and videos

Coach or Teacher?

August 25, 2021 07:00 - 50 minutes - 34.9 MB

Alina Nowak is one of the world's leading ladies of Latin American dance and today she joins us on the podcast today. What's the difference between a coach and a teacher? Why should every dancer have a coach? What was her most horrifying experience on a dance lesson? Bad teachers, great coaches and what it takes to be the best- join us to hear all about it! And by the way- how did a Polish girl dancing with a Spanish guy end up living in Italy? Follow us on insta She’s Just a Dancer Podcast...

The Ultimate Performer with Garry Lee

August 18, 2021 09:00 - 52 minutes - 35.8 MB

Garry Lee is Mr. Ultimate Performer- we're still trying to find something this man can't do! As if singing, acting and dancing were not enough, he takes on roles of dance captain and assistant choreographer in huge productions such as Flashdance . Talk about multitasking! He tells us about the importance of grafting in any performer's career, his West End debut and how the only way to get what you want is to get up and get it yourself. Catch him starring in Everybody's Talking About Jamie an...

A very special episode with Judy Clifton

August 10, 2021 19:00 - 42 minutes - 29.4 MB

It's Joanne's mum everyone! Judy Clifton joins us today for a very special chat- an ultra decorated champion dancer herself Judy talks about her dance career, how it brought her success AND love and what was it like bringing up not one, but two talented dancers. Role of parents in world of dance, what was it like when Jo moved all the way to Italy and how did THAT special evening go when Kevin and Jo went head to head in the Strictly final.

DANCE PSYCHOLOGY

July 27, 2021 12:00 - 54 minutes - 37.5 MB

Dancers and performers have to deal with a lot of stuff- pressures of performing, dealing with rejection, motivational issues, negative body image (we do spend a lot of time in front of the mirror). How can we deal with it all in the best possible way? How do we deal with trauma of injuries? Lucie Clements has a PhD in psychology and focuses all her attention on helping dancers navigate their careers and dealing with it all in the best possible way.  Today she talks most common issues dancer...

DANCE PSYCHOLOGY

July 27, 2021 12:00 - 54 minutes - 37.5 MB

Dancers and performers have to deal with a lot of stuff- pressures of performing, dealing with rejection, motivational issues, negative body image (we do spend a lot of time in front of the mirror). How can we deal with it all in the best possible way? How do we deal with trauma of injuries? Lucie Clements has a PhD in psychology and focuses all her attention on helping dancers navigate their careers and dealing with it all in the best possible way.  Today she talks most common issues dancer...

A dancer's life with Victoria Martin

July 20, 2021 06:00 - 58 minutes - 40.4 MB

What is "normal life" like for a dancer? Find out today as we chat to Victoria Martin- from competitive ballroom world to Dancing With The Stars and Burn The Floor, Vicky talks about her many achievements. How do you end up with such a long career? What's life on tour really like? And how do you come back after a health scare that would stop many in their tracks? Find out today! Follow us on insta @shesjustadancer https://www.instagram.com/shesjustadancer/ for your dose of dance inspo and l...

HE'S JUST A DANCER: Ed Watson MBE

July 13, 2021 05:00 - 46 minutes - 32 MB

Ballet powerhouse and Royal Ballet's longest serving principal dancer, Ed Watson is the man behind some of the company's most iconic performances. Talking about his career, the misconceptions of being a male ballet dancer and what comes next after he retires from his principal post- nothing is off limits. Tune in to hear us chat to one of the loveliest, most talented people out there. Enjoy!

Ballet Myths, Body Image & Success

July 06, 2021 18:00 - 1 hour - 41.4 MB

Who better to talk to about the issues of body image amongst ballet dancers, busting myths and misconceptions about dance and success than Katie Deacon- a bona fide ballet superstar turned West End leading lady.  From ultra strict ballet teachers to the importance of being a good person no matter what you do, nothing is off limits during our relaxed chat.

Changing Lives

July 01, 2021 08:00 - 52 minutes - 36.2 MB

When we think of a real-life inspirational woman to look up to, Ruth Mair Howard-Jones is the person we would like to be. Hear her story of how dance changes lives from UK to  Nigeria, Brazil to North Korea and how she helps amazingly talented dancers from every corner of the world reach for their dream. Her short film Sono Con Te is a touching tale of dancers from all over the world giving their hearts to their art during this pandemic and brings the message that no matter where you are and...

Body acceptance coach on positive body image

June 15, 2021 11:00 - 28 minutes - 19.5 MB

Taylor Behringer is a dancer and a body acceptance coach working with dancers who suffer from negative body image due to pressures they face during their dance careers. From eating disorders to simply feeling good in your skin, Taylor focuses on acceptance that we're all different and special in our unique ways and learning to love the bodies we've been given. 

Life of a principal dancer with Ashley Shaw

June 08, 2021 16:00 - 49 minutes - 34.3 MB

The Nutcracker, Swan Lake, Edward Scissorhands and Sleeping Beauty are just some of the masterpieces of Matthew Bourne's New Adventures where Ashley Shaw performed in leading roles, casting a spell over audiences with her unique storytelling and grace. She talks about the life of a principal dancer, what makes her get up and dance even on the hardest of days and what is the ultimate end goal of any performer. From her role as Vicky Page in Red Shoes to her practice routine, we chat about it ...

Anabel Kutay: Storytelling & Creating

June 01, 2021 06:00 - 54 minutes - 37.4 MB

From principal dancer at Mathew Bourne company to actress, writer, director and founder of Kutay Kollectiv production company- Anabel Kutay is the person to talk to when it comes to creativity and storytelling. So that's what we did! She shared her experience and thoughts about what makes a story great, what was it like for creatives to live through an entire year of lockdowns and her plans for the future. Take a look at her haunting short film The Final Bow  The Final Bow - YouTube

Goal Setting with Katya & Janette

May 26, 2021 09:00 - 59 minutes - 41.2 MB

What's the difference between a dream and a goal? Is it ok for our goals to change and what do you do when someone sets an unrealistic goal for themselves? Do you tell them? Should you? And what does WHOOP have to do with it all? Joining us today are Janette Manrara and Katya Jones and believe us when we say that you're up for a treat. Enjoy!