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Headsmack: Conversations with MisfitsBrandon Coleman Jr / Branding OG. Founder. CEO. Author. SpeakerA Branding's OG - 50 Years in the industryIn this engaging conversation, Brandon Coleman Jr. shares his unique journey from being a young athlete to becoming a branding expert. He discusses the pivotal moments that shaped his career, including the influence of a beloved TV show and the wisdom of mentors. The discussion emphasizes the importance of curiosity, gratitude, and seizing opportunities in life and business. In this conversation, Paul Povolni and Brandon Coleman Jr. explore the significance of gratefulness, the importance of brand alignment, and the evolution of branding and...
2025-01-061h 04
Breaking the Wall Podcast121. Live Interview with Brandon Cournay and the UNCSA Summer Dance Professional Studies StudentsFor our first LIVE podcast interview, I got to chat with my friend and fellow UNCSA Summer Workshop teacher Brandon Cournay.In our #Brandon2Brandon conversation, we dive into the benefits of networking early on, what to look for in a dance job, and how to develope skills/interests outside of the studio that you're interested in. Today, you can't just be a dancer. Finding other work that supports your role as a dancer is a must do.About BrandonBrandon Cournay has performed in the Radio City Christmas Spectacular and with...
2024-07-251h 08Breaking the Wall Podcast113. Navigating an Early NYC Dance Career with Hannah WeinmasterA lot of the time on this podcast, I speak with artists who are established or moved onto other aspects of their career. I'm excited to have Hannah on the podcast today because she is approaching her three year anniversary of NYC living.In this episode, Hannah talks about her journey so far, what she recommends for dancer's who are interested in moving to NYC, and what she didn't expect when she moved here.Hannah Weinmaster graduated from the University of Arizona with a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the School of Dance. As a...
2024-03-2038 minBreaking the Wall Podcast105. The Big Five Personality Types with Danny ColemanI'm in Phoenix for the weekend celebrating my little brother, Connor Coleman. BUT I was hanging out with my older brother Danny and we started diving into the different personality types we work with. The conversation was too good NOT to record.See where you fall in the Big Five Personality Types HEREAbout Danny:As a trainer and coach for 12+ years, I learned that it didn’t matter how knowledgeable I was or how many certifications I got unless I understood people.I became obsessed with psychology and behavior change. I re...
2024-03-0848 minBreaking the Wall Podcast97. The 5 Signs to Stop Pursuing a Company or ShowBooking a job is tough process. As a dancer you either know the struggle or will know the struggle at some point. In some cases, we get so close to booking a job or are always getting cut before the last round. But how long do we go through this process before we move on to another focus? How do we tell the difference between when someone leading us on and when the timing just isn't right?In this episode, Brandon talks about 5 signs to look out for when things aren't resulting in a job. He talk...
2023-10-1120 minBreaking the Wall Podcast96. The 3 Reasons Your Parent Payroll is Hurting YouEarly on in our careers we can get stuck in this mindset of never feeling like we have enough resources. For some dancers, they have the privilege and opportunity to start their careers with the financial security thanks to their parents, guardians, or someone else who helps fund their career early on. Although this is nice and softens the blow of diving into the real world, it could become a crutch that keeps dancers from fully committing themselves to the career they dream about.In this episode, Brandon talks about why it's not always beneficial to have...
2023-10-0318 minBreaking the Wall Podcast95. 4 Ways to Play the Long GameI think one of the main reason dancer's don't continue to pursue a career in dance is because they get defeated before they even start. We face a lot of rejection early on and can't always see the bigger picture when it comes to a successful career.In this episode, Brandon shares 4 ways dancers can stop living in the short term losses and focus on the long term success. Through consistency, awareness, and adaptability, dancers can stay present in their careers without feeling defeated by a wave of rejection.Interested in working with Brandon?
2023-09-1218 minBreaking the Wall Podcast94. The Value of Turning Down a JobSometimes, it's just a no for me dog.Early in our careers we tend to audition for every and any job. We're stacking ourselves against other dancers who are just graduating as well as dancers who have been in the field for years. In all the craziness, we don't always stop to ask if the jobs were auditioning for are right for us.In an effort to unsubscribe from the "a job is a job" mentality, Brandon talks about why you should say no to a job. In this episode, he talks about four filters...
2023-09-0517 minBreaking the Wall Podcast93. Buy Your Way In: Paying For Classes and WorkshopsBefore we graduate or enter the dance field, the world can feel pretty black and white: Dancer goes to an auditon, dancer gets job. In reality, I’ve found this is rarely the case and more often than not, the people on the other side of the table are hiring people they know through workshops, classes, and other long term relationships.I also know that money can be a sensitive subject for dancers and the thought of spending more money on training and experiences after you graduate is hard for dancers to grasp.In this ep...
2023-08-2915 minBreaking the Wall Podcast92. Finding Consistency After a Long BreakWe all navigate our careers in our own time. Some of us find that we love to dance but don't see it as a viable career option right away and decide to take some time off. Dispite what you're hard core ballet teacher has told you, you can always take a break and get back into dance. How you do it safely and consistently is the real question.In this episode, Brandon talks about how to navigate your reentry into the dance world. Through Ihis own experience with taking time away, Brandon shares three things dancers can...
2023-08-0915 minBreaking the Wall Podcast91. It's Not That Deep - When the Career Becomes too SeriousThe wildness of a dance career comes in waves. Between shows, auditions, class, and anything else that can fill our days, we can go for weeks without having a full day off. As we go through these motions, we can start to feel the weight of our careers. In this episode, Brandon shares three ways he finds useful to simplify the role we play as dancers. Through these mindset shifts we can make space for more joy and less intimidating stress in our busy day to day lives.Interested in working with Brandon? ...
2023-08-0118 minBreaking the Wall Podcast90. Freelance Thriving with Christine FloresThe freelance life is no joke. It takes time, energy, and a drive that isn't for everyone. However, if you're able to stick it out, you could have a stellar career like Christine Flores.In this episode, I chat with my good friend and Freelance Queen of NYC, Christine Flores. We talk about the schedule of a freelancer, how we'll never like auditions, and the importance of listening to what you want to do and keeping an open mind.Christine Flores is originally from Toronto, Ontario and has been working with Pam Tanowitz since 2016. She...
2023-07-2544 minBreaking the Wall Podcast89. The Surprise Day OffThe life of a dancer is a busy one. We use a lot of energy physically and mentally each day and can get into routines that don't allow a lot of rest. However, every once in a while we get hit with a random day off and are left searching for ideas of how to fill it.In this episode, Brandon talks about his best practices when it comes to taking advantage of a day off. It's important that dancers find an array of restorative activities they can implement when they have the time to so they...
2023-07-1813 minBreaking the Wall Podcast88. Debating an ApprenticeshipOne of the more common job offers for dancers fresh out of school is and apprenticeship. These positions have varying responsibilities form one company to the next but you can't know what to expect until you're in it....right?In this episode, Brandon talks about what to consider before accepting a role as an apprentice. What questions should you ask up front and what experience are you looking to have? We step into these positions with specific goals or hopeful outcomes. What do you need to figure out so you can have a positive experience and avoid...
2023-07-1113 minBreaking the Wall Podcast87. The Bright Side of Under/UnemploymentUnfortunately, getting a job as a dancer is not the easiest process straight out of college and many dancers will find themselves without work right away. Although this is true, how can dancers find the bright side of the time they have?In this episode, Brandon talks about the highlights of being under or unemployed and the unique opportunities this situation presents. He dives into his own journey and talks about how he used the time to prepare and push Ihis career forward. This career is full of ups and downs, how we spend out time in...
2023-07-0414 minBreaking the Wall Podcast86. Considering Post-Grad Training ProgramsThe options after we graduate or enter the workforce are numerous. For some, the need to fill gaps in training or education bring them to a variety of training programs in order to book the jobs they want.As useful as these programs are, they come with a cost. Between the time, money, and energy commitment, these programs may not be suited for everyone.In this episode, Brandon ways the cost of training programs and highlights some major components that dancers should consider before they register for them. Each program is different and each will c...
2023-06-2716 minBreaking the Wall Podcast85. Making Auditions FunAuditions are one of the most stressful parts of being a professional dancer. For many, especially at the beginning, auditions are the main way to book a job. Between the high stakes and poor conditions that can come with an audition environment, it's easy to feel burned out or avoid this process all together. In this episode, Brandon talks about how to make an audition fun. Through his own experience, he shares five ways to not only make an audition environment bearable, but actually fun to be in. If auditions are a barrier to the jobs we...
2023-06-0618 minBreaking the Wall PodcastEmbracing the Mundane Artist LifeAs artist and performers, we get to do some pretty exciting work. We tour the world, perform on the biggest stages, and get to create work that does not exist in the world. These however are the highlights of the career but not necessarily the norm.In this episode, Brandon talks about the mundane life of the performer and how we can stay engaged in our work. The life of an artist is challenging and dancers need to check in with how their needs are being met and if/when to find fulfillment elsewhere.How can...
2023-04-0620 minBreaking the Wall PodcastBuilding an Anti-Fragile Career: Part 2A part of building a sustainable career means being able to do consistent work. Sometimes that means making the work yourself while you wait for work to show up on your doorstep. The challenges of this career are guaranteed but how we deal with them is up to the individual. In part two of this episode, Brandon continues to shares how to build a career that is sustainable through the highs and lows. To build a more sustainable career we need to:1. Give ourselves many different experiences early on2. Celebrate both the big and...
2023-03-2817 minBreaking the Wall PodcastBuilding an Anti-Fragile Career: Part 1Growing up as dancers, we hear a variety of messages about what to expect in our careers. Teachers, parents, and other mentors tell us how our time is limited, how how competitive the field is, and how only the strongest survive. This does have some truth to it however, this kind of thinking can lead to some limiting ideas that might hold us back from thriving in this career. In this episode, Brandon shares how to build a career that is sustainable through the highs and lows. To build a more sustainable career we need to:
2023-03-2121 minBreaking the Wall PodcastAudition Tips for 2023Were back with new episodes for 2023!With the start of the new year comes many auditions for companies and shows across the country. This can be a stressful time for many dancers who are just diving into the professional world. It's important to find ways to navigate this challenging time in a sustainable way that wont lead to burnout.In this episode, Brandon gives his top four tips for navigating audition season this year. 1. Don't mistake showing your technique with using it2. Don't take "no's" personally3. Don't label yourself too soon...
2023-01-3122 minBreaking the Wall PodcastThe Key to Direct BookingWe all want to book jobs more easily and efficiently. We also all know those people who seem to always be booked. Instead of waiting hours in a cattle call audition, how can we get to a place where were waking up with job offers in our DMs. This is where direct bookings become the goal. In this episode, Brandon talks about how dancers can get on the path to direct booking. Through many small, consistent, and purposeful practices, dancers can create relationships that fuel there career in a way that relieves them from the stressful audition...
2022-09-0818 minBreaking the Wall PodcastBuild it Yourself: Drop-in ClassWhenever we see dancers doing the things that we want to be doing, many times it is because they built the project, tour, event, or show themselves. In the "Build it Yourself" series, I share my own projects and how I built the first iterations of them. I hope these episodes bring some clarity to the potential every dancer holds to build a career they love.In this episode, Brandon talks about how to build your own drop in class and why now is the best time to start. From renting space, promoting, and getting paid for y...
2022-09-0620 minBreaking the Wall PodcastKnowing When to Increase Your RateAsking for money only gets easier with practice but for many dancers, they struggle to justify rate increases even if they know they aren't being paid enough. The world is constantly changing the worth of a dollar and the artists need their price tag to match the value of their work the changing landscape around them.In this episode, Brandon outlines four times when dancers, teachers, and choreographers should consider increasing their rate. Artists can take too much time to increase their rate and it results in them being underpaid and resentful of the jobs they do.
2022-08-3014 minBreaking the Wall PodcastThe Importance of ResiliencyAny professional dancer who can practice resiliency is bound for a great career. Because our industry is riddled with problems and bouts of failure, it's important that dancers are able to navigate that terrain in a healthy way.In this episode, Brandon talks about the importance of resilience and how to become more resilient. More times than not, this industry is about staying in it the longest. It can feel like pushing a boulder up a hill at times. With the right tools we can find ways to deal with failure and bounce back quicker by creating...
2022-08-2516 minBreaking the Wall PodcastMake Your Dance Career "Plan A"I work with two types of dancers:1) The dancer thats knows what they want and we're striving for a specific goal2) The dancer who that doesn't have a clear idea of what they want and might subconsciously be putting their dance career on the back burner.There's nothing wrong with not knowing what you want, BUT we need to know that a dance career doesn't "just happen." You need to go all in if you want the career you envision for yourself.In this episode, Brandon breaks down three steps dancers need to t...
2022-08-2314 minBreaking the Wall PodcastCollaboration in the Studio: Speaking UpAs dancers, many of us grow up in a discipline that teaches us to be seen in not heard. But for many dancers, they find themselves in professional environments that ask them to give input and collaborate with a choreographer. When we are in these situations, we need to know when and feel confident about the ideas we're presenting to a choreographer or director.In this episode, Brandon talks about the importance of speaking up in a collaborative environment and how timing is everything. Dancers need to have an idea/solution and be able to articulate it...
2022-08-1814 minBreaking the Wall PodcastCollaboration in the Studio: Manipulating PhraseworkIn the contemporary world, collaboration is a daily practice. If we can hone our skills as a collaborator, we will prove to be more valuable in creation process and also get a head start on our own choreographic or teaching journeys. In this episode, Brandon kicks off the "Collaboration Series" by talking about manipulating phrases. How do we take information or movement provided by a choreographer and make our own or improve it to support the greater piece? How can we practice manipulating movement before we are in professional settings? In this episode, Brandon offers ideas and t...
2022-08-0214 minBreaking the Wall PodcastFinding Community in the Dance IndustryWhen we find ourselves in the real world after college it can feel like a challenge to find our place in a new city. We crave connection and community but don't know where to find it or where we fit in.In this episode, Brandon talks about the ways he found community when he moved to NYC and the obstacles he felt were in his way. He offers ideas in how you can create better connections with the people you meet and the importance of patience when it comes to building a community that will last.
2022-07-2114 minBreaking the Wall PodcastSchool Should Feel OverwhelmingI sometimes forget what the college work load was like, but when I think back to it, I remember how dense the schedule and workload actually was. Between school work, technique classes, rehearsals, and trying to my #LifeLongFriends, I remember feeling overwhelmed at times. However, I also feel like there was great value to what that experience brought me.In this episode, Brandon talks about the value of overwhelm and why it can be good to seek out while you're in school. How do we look at our schedules and fill in space where we can challenge...
2022-07-1915 minBreaking the Wall PodcastReframing Imposter SyndromeImposter Syndrome can feel like you're in the wrong room or will be found out as a fraud. This idea is common in our community and can stem from the idea that dancers have to pay their dues in order to earn a place in a respectable show, company, or class. The truth is, we have to believe we belong and that may require a little faking at first.In this episode, Brandon breaks down a real life imposter syndrome moment he felt in 2017 and how it affected his ability to be hired from auditions. He talks...
2022-07-0516 minBreaking the Wall Podcast"You Should Quit"It's really hard for dancers to know when to move on. It's also a challenge for them to have the courage to make a big change after working so hard to achieve a life long dream. Most of the time, the picture we build in our head isnt the reality when we book the job. This is when we have to get honest and take action that is going to be the most beneficial to our physical, emotional, and mental health.In this episode, Brandon breaks down the differences in dance jobs and how we don't always k...
2022-06-0714 minBreaking the Wall PodcastDocument Everything: Your Creative WorkWe're in an industry where paid opportunities are few and far between. When it comes to solidifying one of these opportunities (teaching jobs/choreographic commissions) for ourselves, we need to be able to clearly show how capable we are to do these jobs.In this episode, Brandon talks about why it's so important to document your work and why you need to start NOW. Clear video footage, behind the scenes photos, and in-process documentation are vital parts in advancing your career and work. Get good footage of your phrase work and piece (both finished and in process).
2022-06-0313 minBreaking the Wall PodcastDo Things That Make Your Armpits SweatYou ever get that nervous butterfly feeling when you’re stepping outside of your comfort zone? It’s that kind of energy I’m constantly looking for. I want to engage in activities that make my armpits sweat… at least a little bit.In this episode, Brandon talk about why it’s important we challenge our nervous systems and step out of our comfort zones regularly. With summer approaching it’s important for dancers to hone new skills and learn skills that they can’t learn in their normal day to day training schedule.Interested in...
2022-05-1016 minBreaking the Wall PodcastMental Shifts and Integrating Your Passions with Kelly Ashton ToddThrough this podcast, I hope to share new ideas and shifts so that you can incorporate your many different interests in your dance career. In my conversation with director, producer, choreographer and environmental activist, Kelly Ashton Todd, we dive into we can continue to create work that reflects what we care about most.About Kelly:Kelly Ashton Todd is a performing artist, filmmaker, and environmental activist. She received a Master’s in Sustainability Leadership from Arizona State University 2021. She currently performs with Sleep No More, NYC. Todd’s choreography has been awarded the Brooklyn Arts...
2022-05-0338 minBreaking the Wall PodcastWriting Your First BioI see it time and time again. When I go to a show and open my program the longest dancer bios will be from the youngest dancers. I think we feel pressure early on to match the caliber of artist that we share the stage with, but in fact, those dancers will end up having the shortest bios.In this episode, Brandon talks about how to write your first bios and the value of keeping them short and sweet. How do we cut down the embellishment, the word count, and added extras that end up shining a...
2022-04-2611 minBreaking the Wall PodcastPSA: Stop Wasting Time on Shiny ObjectsWhen we start our careers, we have a desire to have all the things to make us look more professional. The best websites, 150 business cards, a email footer/signature. In reality, these things generally take away from what we can do to move our career forward.In this episode, Brandon reflects on the mistakes he made when he was first starting his career and talks about the ONLY four things you need when you're stepping into your career. Instead of focusing on making ourselves look more professional, we can add value to ourselves and our community by s...
2022-04-1909 minBreaking the Wall PodcastRaise the Stakes of Your Self Tape AuditionsRemember that adrenaline rush you got in auditions for jobs you really wanted? That's the energy that is probably missing from your self tapes. This form of auditioning isnt going away anytime soon so it is important for dancers to learn how to separate themselves from the 1,000 other self tapes landing in casting directors inbox's. In this episode, Brandon breaks down four ways to raise the stakes of your audition tapes and why it's so important to let them see you sweat/be polarizing. How do we drop into a phrase with the right amount of energy w...
2022-04-1216 minBreaking the Wall PodcastYour Dream Company Might be Toxic: Part 1- EmployerAs a coach/mentor, I have to bight my tongue sometimes when dancers tell me their career goals. After being around the block for a few years now, I've experienced my fair share of toxic work environments. I'm here to provide tool, insight, and resources to help these dancer's navigate their careers but I never want to tell them what they should or shouldn't do with their careers. In this episode, Brandon shares three situations dancers should lookout for when negotiating if their work situation is potentially harmful. Is your employer defensive when confronted with problems? Do t...
2022-04-0516 minBreaking the Wall PodcastWhy Dancers Need a CoachDancer's are generally pretty familiar with in-studio coaching. They are use to honing their technique and artistic voice in the studio but when it comes to creating and navigating a career in dance, they can feel lost, unsure, and frustrated with the process. This is where career coaching comes in.In this episode, Brandon talks about why dancers today need a coach more than ever. With the ever changing audition world, limited job opportunities, and a variety of paths to take, dancers are feeling stuck and not sure what action to take. Brandon breaks down the reasons...
2022-03-2916 minBreaking the Wall PodcastKeeping Your Career LocalSometimes I talk to dancers who feel like they need to move to a big city in order to have a fulfilling career. However, if there is anything this pandemic has taught us, it's that dance can happen anywhere.In this episode, Brandon makes an argument for NOT moving to the big city and investing in smaller communities. When considering your own values, does a life in NYC, LA, or Chicago really offer you what you want? When it comes to having a fulfilling career, where can add the most value and fell valued for our work?
2022-03-2213 minBreaking the Wall PodcastWhy Your Current Relationships MatterWhen we think of networking, we sometimes think that it's about how it happens in "the real world." We don't always realize that the networking we need and can utilize right away has been happening for years.In this episode, Brandon talks about networking and why your current relationships matter more than the ones you think you need. It's important that we invest in new relationships but we also need to realize that our first jobs are probably going to come from the people we know and who are already in our corner. Interested i...
2022-03-1515 minBreaking the Wall PodcastHappy 1 Year! Energy Management and Trying to Do it AllBreaking the Wall Podcast is 1 year old! Thank you to everyone who has joined me for any part of this wild ride.As dancers, we only have so much time and energy in a day. We want to take class, go to rehearsal, post on IG, write grants, meal prep, connect with our loved one, and it can be completely exhausting. In this episode, Brandon gives his tips on how to create a more sustainable schedule and focus in on your priorities. He talks about when he has the most energy in his day and...
2022-03-1015 minBreaking the Wall PodcastMajor Actions for 2022I'm not a big resolutions person BUT I think it's important to have big dreams and take important action towards those dreams. Every pre-pro and professional dancer has a variety of ways to get to where they want to be but if we do what everyone else is doing, how are we going to get to the place we want to be specifically?In this episode, Brandon outlines three major action steps that dancers can take right now and why they are game changers.1) Invest in your education2) Be proactive instead of reactive3) T...
2022-01-1111 minBreaking the Wall PodcastImproving Your Contemporary ClassWhether your are a new teacher or have been teaching for years, I think there is always a way to tweak and improve our class offerings. In the contemporary class world, the range of techniques, style, and information is vast. One contemporary class is not like any other. Because of this, it's important that we take steps to clarify the kind of class we teach so that our students to better grasp the ideas we want to share.In this episode, Brandon shares three ways to improve your contemporary class in 2022. The ideas are broad but can...
2022-01-0613 minBreaking the Wall PodcastGetting Specific about Summer WorkshopsIt's the New Year and we're already thinking about summer! It's about this time when all the summer workshops and intensives start putting out their dates for summer 2022 and it's important that we know what we're looking for.In this episode, Brandon talks about why it's important to get more critical about the summer intensives we attend. What do you really want to get out of the experience once the week is over. He will break down when it's the best time to jump into new experiences and techniques and when it's time to get specific about...
2022-01-0417 minBreaking the Wall PodcastFinding a Mentor Outside of EmploymentAs we navigate our childhoods and move through our college careers, we gain a wide range of mentors from our parents to teachers etc. When we step into adulthood, I think we crave that same guidance and sometimes bestow that responsibility on our employers. Of course people can be both, however, separating the two has its benefits.In this episode, Brandon talks about the importance of having a mentor and why it's important to know the difference between a mentor and an employer. Interested in working with Brandon? SIGN-UP for a FREE Coa...
2021-12-3011 minBreaking the Wall PodcastSuper Serve MeIn the Fall, I had some performing plans fall through and because of that I had to pivot and find a new way of making money. I decided to conduct a mini experiment and see how a serving job would affect my physical, mental, and emotional heath.In this episode, Brandon breaks down how his four month serving job affected his overall energy and motivation. He dives into positive aspects of quick cash or "knick knack" money but how his creativity, drive, and desire to work on his craft started to dwindle. Interested in w...
2021-12-2816 minBreaking the Wall PodcastGo All In and Let the Back-Up Plan Take a Back SeatYoung dancers are bombarded with messages about how a career in dance is risky, short term, and not a viable career choice. This leads to many dancers taking time and energy away from their dream of becoming a pro to focus on a back-up plan. I'm no stranger to the dual degree/ back-up plan journey, but we need to go all in if we want a career in dance to work. In this episode, Brandon talk about why it is so important for dancers to invest full in their career early on. Sometime's we become so fearful o...
2021-10-2211 minBreaking the Wall PodcastLetting Go of Outside ExpectationsPursuing a career in dance means you'll have to navigate the expectations of the friends, family, and mentors around you. These people may want the best for you, but navigating their expectations of what you "should" be doing, is not your responsibility.In this episode, Brandon talks about the ways to ignore the expectations of others and refocus on what you're currently doing. By realizing you'll never measure up to the expectations of others, you'll be able to engage with more projects that better serve you.Interested in working with Brandon? SIGN-UP f...
2021-10-1914 minBreaking the Wall Podcast4 Audition Tips for In-Person AuditionsAudition season is here and seems to be happening on a rolling basis this year. This is great news because it means there are so many opportunities for dancers to book jobs they love. Whether we are auditioning professionally for the first time, or a seasoned pro, I hope these tips will help you navigate the scary audition process in a more proactive and relaxing way.In this episode, Brandon gives his best audition practices that anyone can bring with them into the studio.1. Know what you're auditioning for2. Don't wait for an audition...
2021-09-3012 minBreaking the Wall PodcastEmerging as a Curator with Georgia UsborneI took a trip to Brooklyn last week to chat with Georgia Usborne about her life as a dancer and curator here in NYC. In our discussion, we dive into what it's like to transition into roles outside of just being a dancer, and why it's important for dancers to be open to more than just performance opportunities. Georgia continues to dive into her career and unveil more opportunities that align with her natural gifts and interests. Through our discussion, Georgia shows us why "success" is a relative term and why it is important for...
2021-09-2849 minBreaking the Wall PodcastTurning Down a JobWe're taught to be grateful for any job that comes our way and "a job is a job." Most recently I heard the phrase, "don't be one of those dancers..."The truth is, we are allowed to be picky and should be picky if we want the vision of our careers to align with reality. The days of being grateful for every/any opportunity are over IF you make choices and take scary action to make it so.In this episode, Brandon talks about why you should turn down certain jobs and how to better...
2021-09-2113 minBreaking the Wall PodcastCreate Outside the Structure of Your SchoolEach college and university program is unique and offers different opportunities and resources to their students. The truth is, these institutions don't have the time or resources to offer their students every opportunity they would like to. In fact, these schools would prefer to limit their offerings in order to differentiate their program from others. For that reason, dancers need to create their own opportunities outside of the confines of the school.In this episode, Brandon asks his listeners to think outside of the box their college/university has created for them. In the real...
2021-09-1612 minBreaking the Wall PodcastMake Better Small TalkDancers are notoriously poor communicators and since the pandemic, certain small talk questions prove to prompt basic responses or just feel impersonal. As artists, we're meeting new people all the time. How do we navigate conversations to build strong relationships both professionally and personally.In this episode, Brandon provides three questions for dancers to delete from their vocabulary and some alternatives that support more open-ended conversations.Interested in working with Brandon? SIGN-UP for a FREE Coaching Consultation HEREBrandon helps pre-professional dancers find their voice as t...
2021-09-1416 minBreaking the Wall PodcastNavigating a Choreographic Career with Omar Román De Jesús: Part 2In part 2 of 2, Brandon and Omar dive into the specifics of navigating a career as a choreographer. What do dancers need to know when pursuing this path? How do you find creative/administrative balance? What are the best practices of being a freelance choreographer?Omar Román De Jesús (Bayamón, Puerto Rico) is a recipient of the 2020 Jacob's Pillow: The Ann & Weston Hicks Choreography Fellowship. He has been commissioned twice by Instituto de Cultura de Puerto Rico to create work for the International Dance Festival of Puerto Rico, where he was awarded the Ambassador of Dan...
2021-08-1123 minBreaking the Wall PodcastIndustry Standards and Creative Pressures with Omar Román De Jesús: Part 1In part one of this two part interview, Brandon sits down with dancer, teacher, and choreographer Omar Román De Jesús to talk about his journey as a choreographer and how he views his place as a choreographer. Omar Román De Jesús (Bayamón, Puerto Rico) is a recipient of the 2020 Jacob's Pillow: The Ann & Weston Hicks Choreography Fellowship. He has been commissioned twice by Instituto de Cultura de Puerto Rico to create work for the International Dance Festival of Puerto Rico, where he was awarded the Ambassador of Dance medal. Omar has won chore...
2021-08-1031 minBreaking the Wall PodcastBuild it Yourself: Teaching TourWhenever we see dancers doing the things that we want to be doing, many times it is because they built the project, tour, event, or show themselves. In the "Build it Yourself" series, I share my own projects and how I built the first iterations of them. I hope these episodes bring some clarity to the potential every dancer holds to build a career they love.In this episode, Brandon talks about his experience of building his first teaching tour and the benefits that came from it. He talks about organizing, promoting, and executing each step of th...
2021-08-0315 minBreaking the Wall PodcastGo to More Live PerformancesAs the pandemic (hopefully) comes to a close in the US, our in-person lives are getting more and more busy. We'll start to fill our time with class, rehearsals, meetings, and other work but I want to encourage you to keep seeing live shows. Outside of the entertainment aspect, seeing live shows is a great way to connect to your community, experience new ideas, and network.In this episode, Brandon share his reasons why seeing live performances is a MUST. Whether you're new to a city or have been a part of a community for a long...
2021-07-2212 minBreaking the Wall PodcastBreaking Future CommitmentsWe're taught from a young age to be true to your word and stick with your commitments. However, in a freelance career, you need to take the great opportunities that come your way and that may mean letting go of commitments that no longer fit into your schedule.In this episodes, we talk about the strategies and possibilities that go along with breaking future commitments. These can be both teaching obligations that you can no longer commit to and even dance jobs that you have to step away from. It a complex situation and there is no...
2021-07-2015 minBreaking the Wall PodcastThe Truth About An Audition ResumeResumes are a staple in the dancer audition process. The issue is resumes are not a "one size fits all" situation. We have to tailor our resumes for each individual job and make sure we are highlighting the content that is most important to the people hosting the auditions.In the episode, Brandon outlines the important aspects every resume needs to have. He also tackles myths about what casting directors value on a resume. How do we organize our resumes to paint us in the best light possible and how do we know whats going to be...
2021-07-0812 minBreaking the Wall PodcastPhotoshoots on a BudgetDancers need new photos all the time. Whether thats for audition headshots or social media content, photoshoots can get expensive. Of course we want to make sure our photographers get the pay they deserve, but we can't always afford regular photoshoots for hundreds of dollars a session.In this episode, Brandon shares his tips to have great photoshoots on a budget. How can we get more bang for our buck and find more creative ways to get the photos we want.Episode ShoutoutMallory Peetee— @maljpetphoto on Instagramwww.maljpetphoto.comI...
2021-07-0612 minBreaking the Wall PodcastInvest in Your City for More than a YearI always hear dancers who want to move to a new city say, "I want to give it a shot and see how it goes in a year." The problem is, a year doesn't allow you enough to for you to immerse yourself in what the city has to offer. It takes at least two years to build connections and have those connections turn into potential jobs.In this episode, Brandon talks about why it's important to invest more than just one year in a new city. He shares ways dancers can stay actively involved in their...
2021-06-1709 minBreaking the Wall PodcastAsking Strangers for FavorsI am here to help dancers thrive and open any door that I can. However, when a relationship feels one-sided or like they only want to connect when they need something... it can feel frustrating. No one likes to feel used and it actually can hurt more than help.In this episode, Brandon tells a story about a person named "John" who only slides into Brandon's DM's when he they need a favor. How do we avoid transactional relationships and find better way to get what we want out of our career? Interested i...
2021-06-1509 minBreaking the Wall PodcastLiving the Freelancer LifeThe number of dancers who are working as freelancers throughout the US is growing. With a decline in full time dance company positions, dancers are finding more opportunities to connect with multiple choreographers instead of joining rep based companies.In this episode, Brandon talks about the methods and the pros+ cons of working as a freelancer. As a freelancer, he's learned that not all jobs are going to make him fulfilled but finding autonomy in your career is worth the trial and error period. It's important to get specific and be open about what you're looking for...
2021-06-0814 minBreaking the Wall PodcastNailing Interviews and Personal Artist StatementsThese days, directors and choreographers want to know more about dancers as individuals. Of course, they want to see your dancing but they also want to know your intentions, goals, and ideas for the company. It's important to that in your interviews and artist personal statements you make it clear about why you want to be a part of this company or show.In the episode, Brandon breaks down important information that needs to be shared during an interview or personal artist statement. Many dancers make avoidable mistakes at this stage of the audition process and it...
2021-06-0313 minBreaking the Wall PodcastHow Opportunity Contributes to SuccessWhen asked about their success in celebrity interviews, I remember them saying things like, "I just worked very hard from a very young age." For me, that is only part of the story. There are so many other factors that contribute to success outside of "hard work."In this episode, Brandon talks about how opportunities play into someones individual success. Based on work by Malcom Gladwell, Brandon dives into three factors he finds that contribute to someones opportunities. He outlines Malcom Gladwell's story of Bill Gates and then talks about his own journey of success and opportunity.
2021-06-0113 minBreaking the Wall PodcastIgnoring the AlgorithmAs Instagram and other apps continue to evolve, their software and how they decide which posts get seen is getting more complex. I see a lot of artist getting frustrated with their work, posts, and stories not being seen and they feel like the algorithm is working against them. For me, there are other aspects of this creative life id rather focus on than cracking the algorithm.In this episode, Brandon explains why the Instagram Algorithm is so complex and why it's best to just ignore it. Throughout the episode, he shares three things to focus on...
2021-05-2712 minBreaking the Wall Podcast"Slide Into My DMs"- Messaging EtiquetteSocial media makes it easier than ever for us to connect, communicate, and share. These days, you're more likely to get some to reply to your DM than an email. Being able to communicate effectively and create positive relationships in your DM's is a great way to utilize this tool.In this episode, Brandon talk about when, why, and how to reach out in the DM's. Past that, he also talks about some common mistakes dancers make and why they should let go of expectations. Interested in working with Brandon? SIGN-UP f...
2021-05-2514 minBreaking the Wall Podcast#AskBTW: Separating Professional + Personal AccountsWhen I coach dancers, many of them wonder if they should separate their personal and professional lives on social media. I understand the desire to do so BUT labeling our accounts as only one thing, limits the sharing possibilities and doesn't represent us as whole people. These day's, directors are not only hiring dancers/teachers/choreographers for their talents but also for their personalities, values, and beliefs. It is all important. In this episode, Brandon explains why he believe one IG account is more than enough. He talks about why it's important to run a consistent and...
2021-05-2012 minBreaking the Wall PodcastMake Your Social Media More InclusiveThe best art reflects the times and society. I also think that the best art challenges the times and society. Dancers (and artists in general) have a responsibility to create spaces that support creativity, new ideas, and reflect our community. In this episode, Brandon shares four ways to make your social media accounts more inclusive. Making changes like, sharing your pronouns, capitalizing each word in hashtags, and adding image descriptions and closed captions to your videos are effective ways to promote inclusion on social media. In this episode, Brandon talks about these strategies and why they're important...
2021-05-1808 minBreaking the Wall PodcastUtilizing Instagram Part 4- ReelsWe've made it to the end of our 4 part Utilizing Instagram series and in this episode we are talking about one of IG's newest features, reels! These are a great way to engage with the social media sight because the add an editing element that was missing in the past.In this episode, Brandon will share three types of reels that dancers should be creating and sharing. There are a lot of ways to use this instagram feature but overall it's a great way to show off your creativity. Interested in working with B...
2021-05-1312 minBreaking the Wall PodcastUtilizing Instagram Part 3- StoriesSocial MAY-dia continues and today we are diving into part three of our Utilizing Instagram series. Stories are a great way to take followers into your day-to-day lives. It gives everyone the opportunity to be the star of their own reality show. What makes stories even better is that they create easy access for people to connect.In this episode, Brandon talks about ways we can utilize stories as dancers. He shares ideas of what people can share throughout their days both professionally and personally. In these days, it's important that casting directors know both the dancer...
2021-05-1118 minBreaking the Wall PodcastUtilizing Instagram Part 2- PostsAs Social MAY-dia continues, we bring you part two of four in our Utilizing Instagram series. Some dancers don't know what to post and some get annoyed or frustrated that they need to be posting at all!In this episode, Brandon talks about what makes a good IG post and what dancer's should focus on as the use Instagram. He talks about the power of good quality videos, images, and captions and how dancers can construct these themselves or with the help of others.Episode Shoutouts:Alice Klock and Florian Lochner of FLOCK...
2021-05-0615 minBreaking the Wall PodcastUtilizing Instagram Part 1- The Visual ResumeWe are celebrating Social MAY-dia over here at Breaking the Wall Podcast!All month long, look out for 8 new episodes focused on how dancers can better use these online platforms. How can make them personal, interesting, and enjoyable to use. My goal is to make using social media less of a chore and more of a thing you enjoy.In this episode (Part 1 of 4), Brandon talks about how Instagram is a great visual resume for dancers. We can share photos, videos, bio info, and external links to share our personal AND professional lives. He talks...
2021-05-0413 minBreaking the Wall PodcastThe Value in Your First Five YearsIn reference to @Garyvee's viral call to action to new graduates, people between the ages of 22-26 have the most time, energy, and lack of responsibilities they will ever have in their lives. Therefore, the first five years of you creative/artistic lives are the best time to dream big and take risks.In this episode, Brandon outlines the first five years of his post grad life and the risks he's happy to have taken in that time. He will also explain why you should you should do more NOW and why he views this career as...
2021-04-2916 minBreaking the Wall PodcastWhy I Don't Pay for Auditions AnymoreIn every other industry outside of dance, interviewing or auditioning for a position is free for the person applying. In some cases, companies pay people to audition for them. Somehow, the charging dancers audition/application fees has become a common practice in our community.In this episode, Brandon talks about why he's resistant to paying audition fees. This year hit the arts (and specifically dance) community especially hard and may dancers and companies are struggling to stay afloat. However, this year has also given our community time to reflect, restructure, and create new/better practices as we mov...
2021-04-2713 minBreaking the Wall PodcastInvesting in Your Career (with Money)When we think of how we invest in our careers, we may think about all the time and energy we've put in to get to where we are. However, there's something to be said about investing with money. In the dance industry, money can be tight for a lot of dancers but when we invest our money in the right places (and the right people), we can see incredible returns.In this episode, Brandon talks about why it's important to invest in opportunities that provide an experience, information, or access. He'll also explain why class, workshops/intensives...
2021-04-2215 minBreaking the Wall PodcastAuditioning For Jobs You Can't DoIn college we are told to "get good at auditioning" or "auditioning will be your job." But what happens when you are already booked and another opportunity is presented to you? You might feel inspired to go and "just be seen" or use it as a "networking opportunity." Before you show up and put on that number, theres a few things and alternatives you should consider.In this episode, Brandon talks about why you should stop auditioning for jobs you cant do. He'll offer solutions and alternatives that will help dancers maintain positive relationships with new and...
2021-04-2014 minBreaking the Wall PodcastWorking for "Free"People LOVE asking dancers to work for zero to no money. And when I say people, I'm talking about directors, choreographers, and other people who want to exploit a dancers love for their career. Advocating for fare pay for dancers is a must, but what do you do in situations when money is limited? What should we consider to be a fair payment for our expertise and services?In this episode, Brandon breaks down forms of payment that might actually be acceptable in place of cash. How can we do the projects we enjoy and still get...
2021-04-1512 minBreaking the Wall PodcastAvoiding the Comparison TrapAs many of us found our social media scrolling time increase in the last year, we may have also found ourselves comparing ourselves even more to our peers. Sometimes it can feel like everyone else is working or doing big things and meanwhile we feel stuck, unsuccessful, or unhappy with how we are spending our time.In this episode, Brandon talks about his own struggle with the comparison trap and his solutions to this epidemic facing creative social media users. How can we better focus on ourselves and our achievements and stop comparing our success to what...
2021-04-1316 minBreaking the Wall PodcastCreate Your Own Work NOWIt's audition season and I know you're all working hard to book jobs from other people. However, what do we do when no one is offering us a job? Answer: We build the job ourselves!Many of us think of our careers happening in this order: Dancer ---> Choreographer ---> Teacher. However, each of these take years of practice and play to master. What we need to do is start investigating these other avenues now.In this episode, Brandon talks about the importance of creating your own work and the benefits and adds...
2021-04-0817 minBreaking the Wall PodcastInternship, Apprenticeship, Work Study, Oh My!Job descriptions for these types of positions vary from company to company. Unfortunately, many of these positions are unpaid and many dancers agree to them without understanding the responsibilities that they include. What questions do we need to ask and how do we make sure we have all the information we need to make good and informed decisions.In this episode, Brandon explains the benefits and shortcomings of working as an apprentice or intern. He also talks about how these positions are traditionally misleading and what to be aware of when you take on this kind of...
2021-04-0613 minBreaking the Wall PodcastTalking to Your Parents About a Career in DanceWhen you're growing up, it's normal to hear "You can do anything you want in life!" But there's a moment (or a few moments) when you're approaching adulthood that your parents start asking what "actual" plans you have for the future.It's not easy to dive into a career in dance but convincing your parents you're going to make it work is a challenge in and of itself. In this episode, Brandon reflects on his own talks with his mom and how their conversations evolved over time.Interested in working with Brandon? ...
2021-04-0116 minBreaking the Wall PodcastA Beginners Guide to Finance for DancersMore often than not, dancers find themselves lacking the financial education they need to generate wealth in their lives. Although many dancers have consistent income throughout their careers, they lack the skills the manage their money and understand how their money comes in and out.In this episode, Brandon will introduce B-A-S-E, which is a framework designed to help dancers build healthy money habits through generating income, understanding how their money comes in and goes out, the benefits of a emergency fund, and how to continue their financial education moving forward.Resources mentioned:...
2021-03-3020 minBreaking the Wall PodcastHow to Slate...and What Not to DoAs the COVID-19 pandemic continues to run its course, companies and shows are utilizing virtual auditions and video submissions more than ever. Many of these institutions are strongly considering permanent implementation of these practices moving forward. Even after the pandemic comes to an end.Slating is a short introduction which usually includes your name, agency, and other basic info about yourself. This part of your submission SHOULD be short and simple. However, many dancers tend to make mistakes. Some are technical, like lighting and background noise, while others have to do with speaking too fast or adding d...
2021-03-2509 minBreaking the Wall PodcastReels... Not the Instagram KindMaking a performance reel is a right of passage for dancers as they approach graduation. Some people edit and create new reels for every audition they submit for. We want to present ourselves in the best light but don't always know how to put our reels together.What do casting and artistic directors want to see?What's a good length and how do we pick the right footage.In this episode, Brandon provides an outline for dancers to create a great reel they can be proud of. Interested in working...
2021-03-2312 minBreaking the Wall PodcastBefore You Take the Gig: Three Money QuestionsGig work is super popular right now and a great way to make some cash in a short amount of time. Sometimes, details can get lost in translation when you're accepting a job and you might be signing up for more than you thought (or less when it comes to money).In this episode, Brandon will three money questions you should ask before you accept a gig:Whats the pay?Whats the time commitment?When/How will you be paid?Interested in working with Brandon? SIGN-UP for a F...
2021-03-1810 minBreaking the Wall PodcastStop Dancing Like a StudentYou may be seeing "2 years professional experience required" on a handful of audition postings. The truth is, dancers are booking these jobs without meeting this requirement. So why not you?In this episode, Brandon will explain how he made the jump from dancing like a student, to dancing like a professional. Many collegiate dance programs prepare dancers to be strong technicians and help dancers prepare for long careers. When it comes time for dancers to work professionally, what can they bring to studios and auditions that take them past being strong technically?**This episode is...
2021-03-1611 minBreaking the Wall Podcast#AskBTW: Book Recommendations for Early Career ArtistsWe are accepting all questions through the Breaking the Wall Podcast Instagram page! Last week, a dancer wanted to know: "What books do we recommend for early career artist?"Check out these MUST READ books and hear Brandon's thoughts about them in the episode!I Will Teach You to be Rich by Ramit Sethi The Defining Decade by Meg Jay, PhDBig Magic by Elizabeth GilbertIf you have a book you love, reach out and let us know!Interested in working with Brandon?
2021-03-1108 minBreaking the Wall PodcastSetting Your Teaching RateSetting your rate is such a challenge! With every studio facing challenges and costs of business, we need to keep our rate fluid and changing on a case-by-case basis. How do you put a numerical value on your teaching ability? At first, talking about money can feel weird or uncomfortable, but we have to be able to articulate how much our time and knowledge are worth. More importantly, we need to be able to talk about WHY our time and knowledge are valuable. In this episode, Brandon talks about four factors to consider when setting your rate...
2021-03-0915 minBreaking the Wall PodcastStart Teaching Dance OnlineThe covid pandemic really turned the dance industry upside down and in March of 2020, dance teachers around the world moved to teaching virtually. Some chose to share their class via social media like Facebook or Instagram, while others brought their class to Zoom. Anyway, they chose to do it, teaching online provided greater accessibility to dancers who wouldn't have the opportunity to take teachers classes in person.In this episode, Brandon talks about his own teaching journey and how to start your own process of teaching online. There are a lot of tough realities we have to...
2021-03-0415 minBreaking the Wall PodcastThe Joy of a Side HustleBrandon in no stranger to the side hustle. He worked at a late night jobs at a pizza shop, walked dogs, sold his plasma, served ice cream, and delivered wine by foot. In this episode, he'll talk to you about the importance of finding a side hustle that works for you and your life. As dancers, we are resourceful and creative. How can we make use we utilize the time we have and make the money we need to continue to live our dreams?Here, Brandon will take you through four questions to ask yourself as you g...
2021-03-0212 minBreaking the Wall PodcastDealing with RejectionRejection is just part of the deal. Some of us will feel the burn of rejection on a daily basis while others will only feel it from time to time.In this episode, Brandon shares four way for dancers to better deal with rejection through proactive strategies and stories of rejection from his life. There are a variety of reasons we don't get the jobs and opportunities we want and think we deserve. We need to know how to acknowledge and manage these upsets to keep moving forward. Episode Shoutouts:Abe LincolnJames Co...
2021-02-2613 minBreaking the Wall PodcastDealing With and Understanding SetbacksSometimes we picture our careers being a consistent upward trajectory in terms of success. Every year will lead to more money, more touring, and more status. Maybe we see ourselves starting with smaller jobs and then work our way up to bigger and better opportunities. But what happens when the plans and dreams you have don't work out the way you plan?In this episode, Brandon gets personal about his success and shortcomings through great dance jobs, drowning in thousands of dollars in debt, sleeping on air mattresses, and riding a roller coaster of highs and lows.
2021-02-2511 minBreaking the Wall PodcastThe Art of Following UpConnecting with dancers, teachers, and choreographers after a class or audition can feel intimidating. Putting ourselves out there can feel super vulnerable because we don't want to come off as needy or annoying. How do we instead come off confident and excited about the relationship moving forward?In this episode, Brandon helps you get clear about your goals when writing a following up email and when reaching out is a good idea. With these ideas, you'll feel confident when reconnecting with someone you want to work with again.Interested in working with Brandon?
2021-02-2408 minBreaking the Wall PodcastKickstart Your Career Before it StartsIn the final months leading up to the start of your career, it's easy to feel stuck and unsure of how to best utilize the remaining days you have in school. With the lack of in-person auditions and online class burnout, it's easy to feel unmotivated.In this episode, Brandon shares six ways to make the most of your final weeks in school. He shares what he wish he took advantage of in his final days of undergrad and the practices that saved him repeatedly throughout his career.Episode Shoutouts:Whim W'Him (@WhimWhimgram)R...
2021-02-2316 minBreaking the Wall PodcastDeciding What You Really WantWhen Brandon asks pre-pro dancers what they want to do, the most common answer he gets is "I want to do it all!" As dancers, we have many options in our career path. We want to dance on Broadway, background for celebrities, and in Europe. The issue is, we need to be specific about what we want to do first, and go all in. How do we make choices and then take action?In this episode, Brandon gives four ways for dancers to make some hard decisions on what direction they want to take in their careers...
2021-02-2214 minBreaking the Wall PodcastIntroducing Breaking the Wall Podcast"Please welcome to the podcasting stage.... Breaking the Wall Podcast!Hosted by NYC based dancer, teacher, and career coach Brandon Coleman, this podcast provides tools and stories that are designed to help early career artists THRIVE!In each short episode (all under 20 minutes), Brandon will help emerging dancer navigate the exciting, uncertain, and beautiful world of a career in the arts.Cover art by Abby Tatro (@AbbyTatroDesign)Cover photo by Spencer Weidie (@SpencerWeidiePhotography)Connect with Brandon!Instagram: @itsBrandonColeman | @BreakingTheWallPodcastWebsite: www. BrandonColemanDance.com/BTWPSend Brandon...
2021-02-1003 min
The Best Life PodcastEp. 79: Finding Fulfillment Every Single Day with Brandon ColemanProfessional dancer and younger brother of Jill, Brandon Coleman, joins the girls in this week’s episode to chat about his career as a dancer, how his relationship to his passion has changed as he gets older, and the turmoil of entering in to a long term relationship after years without one. Even at the young age of 26, Brandon knows that in order to live your Best Life, you have to live each day to its fullest potential. @itsbrandoncoleman thehappinessdiet.com About Brandon and his career as a dancer [3:47]
2019-05-0838 min