Episode 23 - Reina
In Episode 23 of The Shuffle Curious Podcast, we had Reina Almendarez! A shuffler from Texas who has found her love for the dance through the music and the community around it!
Reina's fascination with shuffling began amidst the music festivals that she was attending. The experiences intrigued her and left her wanting to know more about shuffling. Her journey truly began when she stumbled upon shuffle videos on social media in 2017. However, her initial attempt was short-lived, as she found the dance challenging and lacked a support system to nurture her enthusiasm.
Fast forward to 2021, Reina’s pursuit to learn the dance took a turn when she crossed paths with the DFW shufflers. This encounter became a catalyst for her growth and passion. Although her practice in 2018 and on saw sporadic progress, it was her newfound friend group within the DFW shufflers that ignited her determination to dance and learn more about the craft.
Reina's journey unfolds through countless meetups and events, where she centered her life around shuffling. Today, she stands as one of the leaders of the DFW shufflers, a role that brings her immense joy as she organizes events, classes, and meetups, offering her community opportunities to embrace the dance.
Beyond the dance itself, Reina emphasizes how shuffling has been an invaluable anchor for her mental health. It serves as a healthy release and an expressive outlet that has seamlessly integrated into her lifestyle, bringing balance and solace.
Join us in this episode to hear Reina's story, a testament to the transformative power of shuffling, community, and the profound impact it can have on one's mental well-being.
Bio:
Reina Almendarez is an active member of the dfw shufflers, born and raised in Texas. Her love for shuffling was sparked back in 2016 at her first electronic dance music festival called, Something Wonderful. It wasn’t until 2018 when she started to dive into learning the dance. From watching videos, dancing at shows and watching others to practicing in the privacy of her home. It wasn’t an easy journey but she pushed through and continues to learn more everyday about the dance.
A special fact about Reina: her and some girl friends participated in their 4th grade talent show, dancing to One, Two Step by Ciara and Missy Elliot. Reina loves to be active whether that’s working out, rock climbing or shuffling. She has always had a huge passion for music, as her love for different genres is wide. From EDM to alternative to country to hip hop + more. Reina is so happy to be a part of the community in Dallas / Fort Worth, Texas with some of her closest friends. With hopes of continuing to grow the community and spread her love for shuffling! Her message to you and all of the dance community is to never stop learning and to be curious from all walks of life!
Links and Resources:
Post Interview Sesh with Reina and Jennifer!
https://www.instagram.com/reel/CttSESjN0Rl/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
https://www.instagram.com/reel/Ct8dtB_NTVC/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
ShuffleCon Recap
https://youtu.be/vv8M8dV0hns?si=tKlE75o623yRMLNX
Ugly Love by Colleen Hoover
https://www.amazon.com/Ugly-Love-Novel-Colleen-Hoover/dp/1476753180
Secrets Of The Millionaire Mind by T. Harv Eker
https://archive.org/details/secrets-of-the-millionaire-mind/page/4/mode/2up
Shufflers Mentioned:
@technofied.will
@sarahloushuffles
@alyssa.wren
@where.is.mcnasty
@saintxhood
@dfwshufflers
@oceandayze
@milehighshufflers
Credits:
Host: Padric "Paddy" Lynch
Producers: Padric Lynch / Ryan Sports
Editor: Ryan Sports
Music: JT Thirakoun
Graphics: Gustaf Linnerborg
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