Shows
Behind the Mic MediaAndrew Nemr: Carrying on a Legacy in TapIn this episode of Behind the Mic Media, we welcome tap dancer, educator, and storyteller Andrew Nemr. A protégé of Gregory Hines and a leader in today’s tap dance community, Andrew shares his journey as a performer and the ways he uses rhythm and movement to tell powerful stories. He opens up about carrying forward the legacy of his mentors, the spiritual and personal dimensions of dance, and his passion for preserving and evolving the art of tap. With wisdom and heart, Andrew gives listeners an inside look at the discipline, creativity, and joy that fuel his craft. It’s...
2025-10-0452 min
Dark Night PodcastThe Path of Love and Endurance: What's the Experience? | Ep. 4In this episode, Andrew Nemr and Pastor Mike Freeman dive into Chapter 11 of The Dark Night of the Soul by St. John of the Cross. They discuss the transformative process of enduring spiritual darkness and emptiness as a pathway to deepening love and union with God. Andrew shares his experiences with preparing for his 12-hour overnight performance, while Mike highlights the passive nature of spiritual growth and the significance of enduring through life's challenges.Reading: Book I Chapters 10–1100:00 Introduction to The Dark Night Podcast00:34 Exploring the Theme of Love in St. John's Work...
2025-08-221h 05Dark Night PodcastThrough the Gloom: How Do We Find Light? | Ep. 3In this episode, Andrew Nemr and Mike Freeman continue their journey with Chapters 8–9 of The Dark Night of the Soul by St. John of the Cross, delving into St. John of the Cross's concept of the Dark Night of the Soul and discussing Andrew's spiritual preparation for the presentation of Dark Night Live. They share personal reflections on sense deprivation, spiritual emptiness, and the importance of falling into aridity as it relates to the dark night of the soul.Reading: Book I Chapters 8–9 00:00 Introduction to The Dark Night Podcast00:33 Andrew's Retre...
2025-08-151h 14Dark Night PodcastExploring the Dark Night: What is it? | Ep. 2In this episode, Andrew Nemr and Mike Freeman continue their journey with Chapters 4–7 of The Dark Night of the Soul by St. John of the Cross, exploring the hidden spiritual obstacles that are effectively stripped away in the Night – like spiritual pride and gluttony.Reading: Book I Chapters 4–7 00:00 Introduction to The Dark Night Podcast01:53 Greek Influences and Biblical References04:09 Sins of the Flesh vs. Sins of the Spirit05:21 Historical Anecdotes and Spiritual Lessons20:13 The Challenge of Reading the Bible26:12 Brother Lawrence and Practicing the Presence32...
2025-08-0157 minDark Night PodcastWhen the Darkness Comes: What Do You Do? | Ep.1In this episode of The Dark Night Podcast, tap dance artist Andrew Nemr and Pastor Mike Freeman delve into St. John of the Cross's 'Dark Night of the Soul.' They discuss the spiritual disorientation that occurs when the usual sources of comfort and orientation are stripped away, and how this experience, often misinterpreted as a negative one, can be a profound part of spiritual growth. Reading: Introduction, Prologue, and Book I Chapters 1-3 00:00 Introduction to The Dark Night Podcast01:42 Experiencing Disorientation and Isolation07:44 Reflections on S...
2025-07-241h 11
MosaicsTap Dancer Andrew Nemr on Enduring the Dark Night
Andrew Nemr is an international performer, speaker, author, and teacher. His parents are originally from Lebanon, and in 2015 when civil war escalated in neighboring Syria, Andrew started exploring the idea of what it means to endure and encounter hope in the midst of darkness. His vision will come to fruition in August, when Andrew will tap dance for 12-hours straight in an immersive experience calledDark Night.
Visitors are invited to reflect on and honor the enduring spirit within us all. (Find tickets at https://www.darknightlive.com/.)
Andrew, who has been tap dancing since the age of 3, has a...
2025-05-281h 00
Faith in the ArtsTap Dance and Discipleship (with Andrew Nemr)Today’s guest is internationally acclaimed tap dancer, Andrew Nemr. He leads us on a riveting journey through the history of tap dance, the fracturing of the media landscape, sharing your process, the morning pages and recovering from burnout. Oh, and how art practice can serve as a model for Christian discipleship.
To acquaint yourself with Andrew’s work, visit andrewnemr.com and artistformation.com.
If you’d like to join the conversation, please email us at hello@faithinthearts.show . If you’d like to help us continue to make more episodes like this, you can dona...
2025-01-311h 13
The Notes with Andrew NemrThree Things that Solve the Problem of SpeedHow a single mislabeled photo sent me on a rant of eliminating rumors, gossip, guessing, and hurry from my life. All for the sake of engendering trust is a world bent towards speed.LINKS: Berry Brothers Video This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2024-12-1411 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrAssuranceThe final turn in a multi-part exploration on Psalm 23. Here Andrew explores the wonder of relational assurance, what it stands on, and how we might start to approach it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2024-12-0709 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrThe Table and The CupWhat if where we set our attention can transform our reality? What if the receiving of good things happens in the midst of challenges? Andrew explores the next line in Psalm 23 as he continues this series. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2024-11-2308 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrThe Shadow of Death“Okay,” we might say, “we get that you dig this cat. You’ve gotten some good things from Him – a life of plenty, rest, restoration, and training in the ways of righteousness. But you also got this journey through the valley of the shadow of death. Surely your good shepherd can’t be that good?” Andrew explores the valley of the shadow of death in the context of Psalm 23. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2024-11-0909 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrWhat Happens After RestWhen we are rested and restored, the question of what next becomes available for consideration. What action? For what purpose? These are the next considerations of the writer of Psalm 23 and what Andrew explores in this episode. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2024-11-0208 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrRest and RefreshmentFollowing three days at the Designing for Empathy Summit and Workshops, Andrew reflects on progression from rest to restoration. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2024-10-2609 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrDesire and RestAndrew explores of the connection between desire and rest continuing his journey through the 23rd Psalm. Reconciled desires lead a unique experience of rest, not just the ceasing of work. This episode explores what this kind of rest looks like, and how we might get there. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2024-10-1908 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrTo Want or Not to WantHuman desires are a fundamental part of life. How we think about them and relate to them will shape the kind of life we get. Here is a bit of my own journey with this idea. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2024-10-1211 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrPutting Something AwayHere are three parts of some of what happens in the process of formation. There is the moment of being captured by a vision to such a degree that you simply leave what you have behind. There is the intentional reorganization of one’s life for the sake of a particular vision. There is the process of training to become a different kind of person. These aren’t everything, but they are a part of it. Of these analogies the one that we will explore here is the idea of reorganization by putting things away. This is a...
2024-10-0508 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrLack of KnowledgeHow does knowledge function in concrete pursuits? What happens when knowledge isn't pursued? This week I explore both with some anecdotes from Tap Dance Land. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2024-09-2809 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrAnger is EasyExploring experiences with anger in and out of Tap Dance Land.LINKS: Identity Short Film, Rising to the Tap. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2024-09-2110 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrFinding What was LostWith every shift in culture there are things that get lost. New things garner more attention. It is normal. Yet, some of the things that get lost warrant remembering. For over twenty years I’ve been carrying the question of loss and remembrance as it applies to oral traditions. Considering tap dance specifically, Tap Legacy™ has been the place where I learned the challenges faced by oral traditions in a market-based digital culture. Here I explore the more general question of how to recover what is lost.LINKS: Tap Legacy™ This is a public episod...
2024-09-1509 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrSpiritual but not ReligiousHow can we think about the reality of the spiritual and the requirement of specificity? The separation of spirituality from religion seems to hinder this line of thinking. Here I explore reconnecting the two for the sake of a fuller life. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2024-09-0710 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrWho are You?When it comes to understanding ourselves there are plenty of models to use. The one I explore here, first brought to my attention through Dallas Willard's work, is worth considering. LINKS: Dallas Willard’s book, Renovation of the Heart, a teaching of Jesus Christ found in the book of Matthew, the Spiritual Formation for Artists Course, The Easy Yoke, spiritual formation is all about you. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2024-08-2409 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrEverything is About YouThe central figure of your spiritual formation is you – it is really all about who you become. Or is it? This week we explore the connection between individual and relationship, and how they aren't really as separate as we might think. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2024-08-1712 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrYou Get a Spiritual FormationImagine your favorite game show. The contestants are all vying for the prize – a large some of cash, a dream vacation, or a car, perhaps. They’ve all given time and effort towards this pursuit, and now their efforts in training are being put the test. Will they reach their goal? Will they get the thing they are aiming for?In end, regardless of what we thought we were aiming for, we all get a spiritual formation. In this episode we explore exactly what this is. This is a public episode. If you'd like to d...
2024-08-1010 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrRestOne of the most powerful practices in the journey of spiritual formation is that of the interruption. If the way that we’ve always done something has lead to a particular organization of thought of action, and we want something different, the current patterns require interrupting. This note is a quick description of my plan to rest in July.LINKS: The Notes archive. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2024-06-2903 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrWhy Values Fall ShortIn a long talk about transformation John Maxwell centers the sharing of values as the catalyst for transforming. He is not wrong, but I disagree with the premise that sharing good values is what does the transformation. In this episode of the Talking Notes I explore why values fall short.LINKS: the short, the longer talk, the renewing of the mind, love, the meeting of two worlds. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2024-06-2209 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrContempt is Sneaky!A few months ago, a video of Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker was making the rounds entitled, "How to spot an idiot." While part of a larger speech, the "idiot" clip went viral. Contempt is sneaky.LINKS: writing talks, or shows. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2024-06-1510 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrOn Being ImmovableHow does how we think about positioning and change relate to our ideas of movement and propositions of life?LINKS: Peter Boghossian’s Street Epystemologies, a one-day retreat on spiritual formation and rest, the four great questions of life, conversation – the type that leads to deeper discovery. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2024-06-0808 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrEcstatic and Formal DancingWhat do the existence of both ecstatic dancing and formal dancing about our relationship to forms and the desire for freedom. This note explores this idea at the nexus of tap dancing, apprenticing to become a pastor, and life.LINKS: Sanctuary Ministries, Hillary McBride, Pheeroan AkLaff, Rashied Ali, DayBreaker, Henry LeTang. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2024-06-0108 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrProtection and CorrectionThe tap dancer Bubba Gaines, in taking on Bettye Morrow as an apprentice, told her that he was happy to teach her because she hadn’t been taught wrong. Wrong teaching is everywhere, and by it comes the need for correction. Correction is described as a painful experience, but does it have to be? In this episode I wander through Psalm 23, Tap Dance Land, and my own relearning to explore... This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2024-05-2510 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrEverything has MeaningIn a world in which we have had to define posed purpose and meaning as a thing to have to experience the good life, and made meaning something we can pull out of thin air, it is as if we have forgotten that meaning is everywhere, already. Here, through my experience in Tap Dance Land, I explore this idea.LINKS: TiDii This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2024-05-1810 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrTalking Notes – with Esther MunSpecial Guest – Esther MunAndrew and Esther discuss the journey of the creative person. We meander through conversations about dream, projects, prayer, and what growth looks like in the middle of the work. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2024-05-111h 04
The Notes with Andrew NemrImprovised or UnpracticedExploring improvisation as a mode of being – a framing of the skill of choice-making that can be trained towards. In this note I start with my experience of improvisation in Tap Dance Land, then draw a bridge to the improvised life as it relates to the journey of spiritual transformation.LINKS: a song performed by Sammy Davis, Jr., Studio Notes. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2024-05-0410 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrHonesty and ForgivenessKeeping with the theme of spiritual transformation, this note explores how the ideas of honesty and forgiveness conspire to create a unique way for transformation.LINKS: the last note, spiritual formation for artists course, Dallas Willard’s Renovation of the Heart, John Maxwell's 4 seasons of change. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2024-04-2712 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrSpiritual Transformation Part IJudging rightly is one of the key aspects of spiritual formation. but judging rightly doesn't only have to do with the answer we arrive at, it has to do with how we are judging. In this episode Andrew explores how processes of judgement, definitions of knowledge, and visions of the good life all interact. Underneath it all? The idea that we can change – spiritual transformation.LINKS: Thoughts on anger in the letters to the Ephesians and Colossians, the instagram video that started it all. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss th...
2024-04-2012 min
Art & Faith ConversationsSeason 9 EP6: The Artist & Burnout w/ Andrew NemrAndrew Nemr is an international tap artist, TED Fellow, speaker, mentor, and writer. Andrew started tapping at the age of 3 being mentored by Gregory Hines starting at a very young age. He’s a solo artist in dance, visual art and music but also travels the world as a speaker, mentor, and coach in a variety of settings and has had his life story featured in an independent film by Windrider called Identity. We discuss a significant moment in his life when he hit a wall and experienced burnout throughout his whole body, mind, and spir...
2024-04-1947 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrChanging the WarThinking about what creates the climate for war and how to undermine that is what this week's episode is about. In particular, I explore the framework of the tribe in terms of formation and interaction, and what a different frame might look like. LINKS: My past writing on war, about conversations, and the hermitic life. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2024-04-0612 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrPerfectionBeing a perfectionist and aiming for perfection are not the same thing. In this episode I share a little of my journey with this idea. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2024-03-3011 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrSelf-JustificationA ladder on the highway, a self-justifying driver, and a contemplative drive home. I’m driving on the highway. This episode explores self-justification – by way of achievement orientation or the idea of authenticity – as one of the great lies that prevents true transformation.LINKS: Identity: The Andrew Nemr Story, Saving Private Ryan This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2024-03-2310 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrUnity of SpiritThere is a lot of talk about polarization and division. In times of extreme division a vision of extreme unity may help provide balance. This is exactly what is explored in this episode.LINKS: Starts With Us, Braver Angels, Gangstagrass, Cats Paying Dues. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2024-03-1612 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrThe Arts are a Perilous LandIn this episode I explore what the current Amazon Prime Video series Reacher, the arts, and faith have to do with one another. Or said another way, I comment on an Acton Institute article and a minor controversy around the show.LINKS: this article by Acton Institute, Ritchson's YouTube channel, The Acton Institute website, being mostly at war, Ritchson's response video. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2024-03-0914 min
Vancouver Eastside Vineyard ChurchAndrew Nemr, "The Ignatian Way: Engaging Scripture with our Imagination,” Sunday, Feb 18, 2024Andrew Nemr, "The Ignatian Way: Engaging Scripture with our Imagination,” Sunday, Feb 18, 2024
2024-03-0440 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrDrinking from the RootIn episode I explore the experience of hanging with older tap dancers, my predisposition to 100% cranberry juice (and none of the mixed cocktail variations), and what drinking from the root is like.LINKS: The movie TAP, the challenge scene, Gregory Hines, bringing each other into our worlds, Asking the Questions. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2024-03-0212 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrAcknowledgementWhat does our own acknowledge or agreement with regards to authority (spiritual or otherwise) have to do with our experience of life? The episode explores this questions dipping into the areas of language, immersion, apprenticeship, and inspired by John Lennox.LINKS: Getty Music’s Sing Conference, John Lennox, an example of exploring different worldviews, and how language has a lot to do with how with think. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2024-02-2410 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrAbstractionAbstraction is attractive and a place where artists play. Yet, it is also a detriment to the kind of connection required for trust...even love. I explore in this episode.LINKS: Foo Fighter’s performance of “My Hero” with Shane Hawkins, Simon Sinek, in his book, Leaders Eat Last. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2024-02-1710 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrLanguage and TransformationThis episode I explore the idea that our language can affect our thinking which in turn affects how we organize our life. If this is true, than we can hack our language to shift our thinking. I share a trick I've used.LINKS: the nature of language, Kevin Adler, Miracle Messages. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2024-02-1010 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrA Transformational CoreChange is at the core of life. We all witness change in the physical sense as we grow. We experience the shifts in relationship to others and the world around us as we live. Change is everywhere, and for many it is a thing to be avoided. We may yearn for a sense of stability – and confuse it with sameness. The person or community that works towards and sustains a transformational core, functions in a different paradigm. I explore exactly that in this episode. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with ot...
2024-02-0310 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrThe Hiding PlaceHow does solitude and hiding help make us into better kinds of people? This is the question I explore in this week's note – from practical strategies for hiding, expectations of what might happen, and what we might come up against as we try. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2024-01-2712 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrAppropriate OutcomesExploring how a particular presentation of reality should be enough to elicit a response. Spoken plainly and simply, a description of the life with God just might be enough to make a change. Dallas Willard thought so...here I explore. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2024-01-2012 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrFalling in LoveAn exploration of how falling in love is the quickest and easiest way to transform a life.LINKS: C.S. Lewis’s The Four Loves, the communal nature of people. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2024-01-1312 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrDefining Terms - KnowledgeExploring a functional definition of knowledge that is true to its function and development on a daily basis.LINKS: idea of love, moral responsibilities. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2024-01-0617 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrDefining Terms – LoveContinuing the pursuit of defining words – exploring the language we take for granted – this week Andrew explores the word, love. Both personal and universal, this exploration bounces from personal experience to philosophical ideal.LINKS: The Define Love blog, the first poem in Khalil Gibran’s The Prophet, letter to a group of Corinthians, wisdom of children defining love, a tap dance story about love, John 3:16, John 15:13, C.S. Lewis. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2023-12-1612 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrDefining Terms – FreedomThis episode I explore the idea of freedom. The tension between desiring to do whatever we want, whenever, however, and with whomever we want and the natural consequences of such a pursuit. Plus, what love might have to do with any of this.LINKS: Creativity, All things are permissible, but not everything is good, Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom, Love fulfills the law. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2023-12-0914 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrDefining Terms – CreativityIn the next few episodes I'll be exploring the defining of terms foundational to the conversation about spiritual formation and creativity. This week's episode explores Creativity. What is it? What is it not? How do we think about it and engage in it?LINKS: Tap dance, Dallas Willard, Jesus Christ, What We Leave Behind. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2023-12-0213 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrGiving ThanksA personal note of thanks.2023 Gift Ideas now available at andrewnemr.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2023-11-2511 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrConversation with Kevin AdlerThis week's episode of Talking Notes welcomes special guest Kevin F. Adler (@kevinfadler). Kevin is an advocate and leader in the world, doing what he can to care for his unhoused neighbors. Through his organization Miracle Messages (@miraclemessages), Kevin has brought together a community of people to care through a series of relationally focused programs. Our conversation wanders from his start in the work, key insights and turning points, setbacks and trials, and touch of World War II history.Links: whenwewalkby.com, miraclemessages.org, kevinfadler, When We Walk By, The Last Black Man in San Francisco, Jonathan...
2023-11-181h 19
The Notes with Andrew NemrMaterial MattersWhat material are we made of? Sometimes we don't know, can't even find out, until we are cut. Here I explore a metaphor that brought this idea to life for me. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2023-11-1109 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrWar is HellI posted this as a blog a few weeks ago, and am reposting it here, with some additions, as it seems still relevant. If you have experienced the ravages of war, you may want to skip the rest of this…you already know everything I will share. If you haven’t experienced the ravages of war, please take a moment to read these words – and consider the great blessing you have had to be spared.War is hell. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access...
2023-11-0409 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrBearing WitnessThinking about bearing, witnessing, and bearing witness, to the externalities of life and the internal landscape of the person. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2023-10-2113 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrThe Body Never DiesIn the Christian tradition, there is a lot of language around the body. That might be an interesting thing to hear when we consider some of the history the Christian Church has had with thinking about the body. For example, we can look at records of how various branches of the institutional church has approached dance – the heightened expression of the body – across time to find contention, dismissal, and embrace (with guidelines of course). Nevertheless, Jesus came in a body. Baptism and the Lord’s Supper, two key activities in the life of a follower, are things that happen with o...
2023-10-1411 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrFinding a FloorA few years ago, at the beginning of the pandemic – that thing that everyone remembers but fewer people talk about now – I found myself in a new city. I had a safe place to stay, solid friends, and just enough stability to work on what needed to get done and what might be next. It was a soft landing in a tumultuous time, and I am grateful for everyone who helped me. There was just one thing that was missing: wood. This is a story of searching for tap dance floors and finding people.Quick Links: Cats Payi...
2023-10-0710 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrConversation with Christian HarbinTaking the scope of talking notes at face value, I’ve invited Christian Harbin into the conversation. We discuss spiritual formation, creativity, and the nature of joy.About Christian Harbin // Xndrsn D’ArtistChristian is self-taught in the disciplines of realism, abstract painting and digital art. Born and raised in Mobile, AL, he honed his love for music and art from a very young age. In 2019, he moved to New York City and, soon after, began working in hospitality, serving the homeless. He now pursues a budding career in fine arts, utilizing his influences of musi...
2023-09-3051 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrPlaying a Good GameIn this week's note Andrew explore the idea of games, popularized by Simon Sinek, with an additional twist. How can shifting our attention to how we want to play a game change the way we show up in the games of work and life?LINKS: Andrew's coaching servies, Simon Sinek.For a deeper dive into the theme of this episode visit, Asking the Questions. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2023-09-2309 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrThe WordThis week I explore the idea of the word, some of forms it takes, and differences inherent in each.LINKS: Book of JohnExplore powerful questions based on the themes of Talking Notes by visiting, Asking the Questions. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2023-09-1615 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrRemembering Al HeywardRepublishing this piece remembering Al Heyward, a cornerstone of the tap dance community in New York City. Not a dancer himself, but a key proponent of the craft.Mentions: Florence Mills, Bert Williams, the Tap Legacy™ FoundationOriginally published at andrewnemr.com on April 2, 2020.For a deeper dive into the theme of this episode visit, Asking the Questions. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2023-09-0905 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrA Response to VeritasRepublishing this article here originally from May 4, 2020. Adding to the conversation around lament and the arts produced by the Veritas Forum.Mentions: Veritas Forum's wonderful conversation, Makoto Fujimura (visual artist), Lecrae (musician), Alissa Wilkinson (writer), and Andy Crouch.For a deeper dive into the theme of this episode visit, Asking the Questions. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2023-09-0211 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrHero's JourneyThis week I explore education theory, the Hero's Journey, individualism and communal formation. I share a little of what my early years with Savion Glover were like, too.Mentions: Wonder (a new school),the Acton Academy, and The Book of Acts.For a deeper dive into the theme of this episode visit, Asking the Questions. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2023-08-2610 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrSafe or ComfortableIn this episode a quote from Winston Churchill spawns an exploration of the ideas of safety, comfort, and change – especially as they apply to the process of spiritual formation.Episode Links:The Splendid and the Vile, by Erik LarsonFlipping Maslow's Hierarchy of NeedsFor a deeper dive into the theme of this episode visit, Asking the Questions. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2023-08-1911 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrYour World or Mine?This week I explore a way of looking at what happens when two people meet. If we envision each person as an entire world, maybe we will approach the encounter of another person differently.• the idea of communal imagination • a workshop for teams •For powerful questions around the theme of this episode check out, Asking the Questions. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2023-08-1212 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrContempt and AngerThis week I explore the connection between anger and communal formation. Including ways around it, through it, and what it might look put it away.• The Beatitudes• Sermon on the Mount (or hill)• Who citizens of the Kingdom of Heaven are• current religious law• Matthew 5:21-24 KJV• Book of Matthew, Chapter 18, (NKJV)• Anger is worth putting away •For powerful questions around the theme of this episode check out, Asking the Questions. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr
2023-08-0513 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrFor the Sake ofIn this episode I explore the 10th beatitude, from the teachings of Jesus Christ as recorded in the book of Matthew. The Beatitudes have been played a central role in working out what I believe, and I feel like I'm just scratching the surface.For powerful questions along the theme of this episode visit, Asking the Questions. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2023-07-2911 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrI Will Make You HurtThis week I'm exploring my journey from acceptance of the wounded healer model to aspirations and commitments toward the healed healer model. Using resonance as way to discern my inner world as I go. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2023-07-2210 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrBelief and KnowledgeThis week I explore Dallas Willard's definition of the word "belief" and the process of moving from belief to knowledge. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2023-07-1512 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrA Book To RememberIn this episode I explore how finding and reading books my dad would have enjoyed – namely two new offerings by Malcom Gladwell and Erik Larson – allowed me to remember my dad in a special way.Mentions and Links:DryBar – https://www.youtube.com/@DryBarComedyJim and Phil Wharton – https://www.whartonhealth.com/The Bomber Mafia – https://a.co/d/58isQXIThe Splendid and the Vile – https://a.co/d/5xjYNQVTraining me up in the way to go – https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs%2022:6&version=KJV T...
2023-07-0812 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrFormed by FillingIn this episode I explore the common question of what matters most – nature or nurture, chicken or egg, inherent or environment. These are common questions that come up as I have explored the area of individual and communal formation. We know that at least these two areas are at work. There is all the stuff that we become aware are working within us AND all the things that act upon us. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2023-07-0112 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrWe Change Each OtherOver the past few years, I have found myself taking significant amounts of time and effort to understand the idea of boundaries. I am not a professional psychologist, psychotherapist, or neuroscientist. However, I have led and been a part of several communities of practice, lived a life in a family that effectively has no boundaries (and thrived), and experienced numerous old world style apprenticeships. This is what I have learned... This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2023-06-2411 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrResting My ThinkingAndrew explores the connection between his formation as a tap dancer, propositions of Jesus, and rest.For a deeper dive in the theme of this episode visit, Asking the Questions. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2023-06-1714 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrTalking Notes – Guest: Eva TingContinuing the conversation around navigating grief, I invited my friend Eva Ting, founder for Here to Honor, for a stimulating conversation. Eva is my first guest on Talking Notes, and I couldn’t have asked for a better conversation partnerAsking the QuestionsWant to go deeper? Check out guided questions available to paying supporters here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2023-06-101h 15
The Notes with Andrew NemrTalking Notes – A Grief Observed Part 5A Grief Observed Part 5 – Likely the last scheduled part in a mutli-part series in which I’ve been sharing a realtime exploration of my personal journey in the wake of my dad’s unexpected passing on March 14, 2023. Originally recorded on April 8, 2023. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2023-06-0316 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrTalking Notes – A Grief Observed Part 4Exploring the connection between ugly crying, pop songs, shining shoes, and the desire to honor my dad. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2023-04-0621 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrTalking Notes – A Grief Observed Part 3I’m going to brag about my friends (and my dad) in this episode. It has been a balm to my soul to see the friends that I have come through for my mom and I in a multitude of ways. And I continue to process the legacy of love that my father has left for me. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2023-04-0117 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrTalking Notes – A Grief Observed Part 2The learning continues…I learned a new term, and navigate a different sense of time… This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2023-03-2907 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrTalking Notes – A Grief Observed Part 1On March 14, 2023 my dad went home to Heaven. The past days and weeks have been life altering in a way that nothing before could have been. Here I attempt to describe what the time has been like. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notes.andrewnemr.com/subscribe
2023-03-2627 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrTalking Notes – Burning Out in Real TimeComing out of my burnout in 2019, I had many helpful conversations. Each one helped me attempt to reconstitute my life. One in particular was with a friend, David. We had had conversations before. He knew me, and I trusted him. As I shared my experience, what had happened, and the pain I was walking through, he was compassionate and helpful. Towards the end of conversation, he said something I didn’t expect. “You will likely feel this way again.” It wasn’t what I wanted to hear. It definitely wasn’t encouraging. I remember chuckling through my tears at the time...
2023-03-1315 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrTalking Notes – The Future is HappeningThere is a lot of conversation around artificial intelligence these days. It was once thought that art making or creativity in general was something that AI could not emulate, something uniquely human. Sure, it could solve technical problems with speed, but a drawing or music? That was the domain of the creative human. However, the work coming from projects like DALL•E and others begs to differ. Even robots have the ability to dance. With the amount of innovation (a lot) and the rate of it (very quick), we are finding ourselves in a new world. Notably not on th...
2023-03-0415 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrTalking Notes – The Journey So FarI thought I’d take this week to make some space to breathe. To take in, again, all that has been explored around the beatitudes so far. To sit in contemplation of the journey – what mine has been like, what I’m currently working through, and what I may look forward to – all with God. I would encourage you to do the same.Related Links* Poverty (read or listen)* Mourning (read or listen)* The Meek (read or listen)* Hungry and Thirsty (read or listen)* Mercy (read or listen)
2023-02-2503 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrTalking Notes – The PeacemakersI’m telling my fourth joke of the night. They have all been puns. I’ve been on a roll, but this one is a swing and a miss. I chuckled to myself and said to the audience, “I guess I am my father’s son.” My dad loves to play with words. So much so that it’s a sport to keep up with him. He’s got three solid languages under his belt, too. Imagine conversations sprinkled with multilingual puns and dad jokes. I’ve been immersed in this world for much of my life. Add to this my own pred...
2023-02-1810 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrTalking Notes – Pure in HeartI’m listening to the radio when this song comes on. The lyric in the chorus catches my attention.If I traded it all // If I gave it all away // For one thing // Wouldn’t that be somethingMy heart resonates with the singleminded intention. It reminds me of the focus of pursuit that great artists and athletes endure to reach the heights of their craft. It reflects the discipline I’ve seen in people of integrity – even successful people in business and life. As an improvisational tap dancer, a lot of my time is spent di...
2023-02-1111 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrTalking Notes – MercyYears ago (some may say many years ago) there was a common stereotype of the self-righteous individual. It was the cigarette smoker who had just quit. This person, for whom the habit had been a mainstay, upon quitting becomes the most outspoken, imposing, and sometimes outright oppressive proponent of the evils of cigarette smoking and the virtues of quitting. Their policy is not in question. Their rigid approach in relationship to sharing said policy with others is what made the stereotype pervasive. Have you encountered such a person? Someone so sure that they are right about something, that they...
2023-02-0414 minVancouver Eastside Vineyard ChurchAndrew Nemr, "A Journey Through The Beatitudes," Sunday, Jan 29, 2023Andrew Nemr, "A Journey Through The Beatitudes," Sunday, Jan 29, 2023.
For more on Andrew Nemr, please check out his website, www.andrewnemr.com.
2023-01-3057 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrTalking Notes – Hungry and ThirstyWelcome to the hard road. We’ve faced poverty, mourning, and the challenge of gentleness together so far, and it doesn’t get any easier. Transformation is difficult, for all the reasons we’ve mentioned before. The cross as presented by Jesus, as a vision for the necessary (even willing) death of our person, in order to be born again, formed again, into a new kind of person is realistic – it’s not melodramatic. While the giving up of everything at one time is a common experience, I’ve have noticed God work in a more focused way with me as well...
2023-01-2817 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrTalking Notes - Thank You – A Year In ReviewThis last note of the year is a little different. At the end of the year have learned to turn my thinking towards reflection. As an artist, the work I do is never far from my experience of life, the things I’m actually thinking about, and what I’m working out in myself. As a freelancer, however, I often jump from project to project without much time to reflect in the middle of the season. So it has come to the end of the year to be a time of reflection for me. That said, I wanted to shar...
2022-12-2308 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrTalking Notes - Being the JoyI’m in Tacoma, Washington, at the inaugural Zion International Film Festival. Identity: The Andrew Nemr Story is an official selection, and I’ve made the trip to support the film, meet some people, and make myself available to whatever else might happen (one never knows). In a scene from the film, I’m driving in my car pontificating on the nature of my relationship to my dancing. I say, “The way my dancing is now, it’s more about the joy of dancing in the presence of my Lord, than working anything out.” In one of the post-screening Q&A sessions...
2022-10-0111 min
Forefront 360Interview: Andrew Nemr on Spiritual Formation for ArtistsNate and Zack talk to tap dance artist & TED fellow Andrew Nemr about his all-new virtual course developed in partnership with Forefront, Spiritual Formation for Artists.
As artists, we are always in the act of formation: crafting sentences, mixing colors, shaping sounds, cultivating audiences. But as we practice our disciplines, how are we being formed? Taught by Andrew Nemr, an internationally renowned tap dance artist & TED fellow, this course will consider the link between our art practices and who we are becoming as we create. Sessions will include discussion on spiritual formation and disciplines, artistic practices in...
2022-08-2429 min
Mere ChristiansAndrew Nemr (Tap Dancer)Jordan Raynor sits down with Andrew Nemr, Tap Dancer, to talk about how to hear the applause for your work before you go on the metaphorical (or literal) stage of your job, how he came to realize that God doesn’t need us but wants us, and why we should view failure as a gracious gift from God. Links Mentioned:Andrew NemrAndrew Nemr on InstagramAndrew Nemr on TwitterIdentity: The Andrew Nemr StoryA Grief ObservedRenovation of the HeartJordan Raynor
2022-07-2744 min
The Notes with Andrew NemrTalking Notes - SnapbacksWhat are the things that keep us from growing? In thinking about this question I’ve come to identify the experience of the snapback. That is, that moment when we find ourselves pulled back into an old habit, reactive decision, or norm. The things we used to do, and the people and places associated with them, can have immense pull in opposition to our own growth and transformation.EPISODE LINKS* Andrew teaching* Andrew speaking* Lisa Marten* Lisa Marten blog post on reentryEnjoy! This is...
2022-03-1211 minForefront 360Special: Identity with Andrew NemrAt a recent Forefront virtual event, we screened the short film "Identity" featuring internationally known tap dance artist Andrew Nemr. The film joins Andrew as he navigates being the only son of immigrants, a trusted keeper of the oral tradition of tap dance, and a follower of Jesus Christ. Through many challenges we see Andrew as he literally dances his way through questions about family, ethnicity, race, art, community, and where one’s identity really comes from.
In this special podcast episode, listen to the conversation that Forefront director Nate Mancini had with Andrew about what it me...
2021-07-2130 min
Intrinsic Drive®Tapping Into Purpose with Andrew NemrAndrew Nemr is an internationally known performer, choreographer, educator, and speaker. Andrew has performed with Grammy award-winning musicians, Jazz icons such as Harry Connick Jr, Duke Ellington Orchestra, the Lionel Hampton Orchestra, and the legendary Les Paul. The New York Times referred to Andrew as a "master tapper." Nemr's work has been recognized with a TED Fellowship. Andrew founded the tap dance company Cats Paying Dues and co-founded the Tap Legacy Foundation, along with his mentor tap icon Gregory Hines. In this episode, Andrew shares his early motivation after watching Gregory Hines and Savion Glover in...
2021-05-1944 min
The Fake PodcastTFP | S2, EP 3 w/ tap dancer, culture-maker, spiritual guide, and bonafide TED Fellow, ANDREW NEMRWe are back, with what we consider our first legitimate, bonafide celebrity guest ... the renown tap dancer, educator, official TED Fellow, spiritual guru and culture-maker, Andrew Nemr! Mentored by tap legend, Gregory Hines, and having shared the stage with pretty much every performer that you've most likely admired from afar, Andrew has circled the globe performing and speaking about the beauty and complexity of tap, won numerous awards, and even spoke at the main TED Conference as an official TED Fellow (be still our nerdy hearts) ... that both Ben and I are still stunned that he agreed...
2020-06-261h 29
Inspired Wisdom PodcastMusings on Mastery with Andrew Nemr, Master Tap Dancer, Ted Fellow, Millennial Master Tapper Andrew Nemr
The New York Times described Andrew Nemr as a “masterly tapper”. Today, he is considered one of the most diverse tap dance artists. An international performer, choreographer, educator and speaker, Andrew:
mentored with Savion Glover and Gregory Hines
has played with Grammy Award-winning musicians across multiple genres
danced at the
opening ceremony of the Cannes Film Festival
the Jerry Lewis Telethon
Winter Olympics Arts Festival
Nijinsky Awards in Monaco
To name only a few of his awards. On Inspired Wisdom, I’ve added show notes, links to Andrew's bio and several videos of Andrew ta...
2018-06-2554 min
The 7th Avenue ProjectTap Dancer and Hoofing Historian Andrew NemrAndrew Nemr has been tapping practically since he was out of diapers. He's studied and performed with some of the best, including Gregory Hines and Savion Glover. He's also a tap historian and co-founder of the Tap Legacy Foundation. Andrew told me about his life in tap and the tradition he's a part of as he retraced his own steps and those of his predecessors, occasionally letting his feet do the talking.
2014-07-0600 min