Shows
Leta's Tap StylesSensory Issues and Dance Costumes: My Top Five Most Hated Dance CostumesSend us a textIn this episode of the Leta’s Tap Styles Podcast, Leta and Amanda look at Leta’s Five Least Favorite Costumes, and the roll Leta’s complex sensory issues had on the list. They discuss the lack of understanding and knowledge most dance teachers have about sensory issues, and how those can affect a dancer’s ability to perform onstage. They touch on the challenges faced by autistic kids in traditional dance environments, emphasizing the importance of understanding the spectrum of sensory sensitivities. The episode also delves into Leta's personal experiences with various recital...2025-05-1448 minLeta's Tap StylesThe Silent Struggle Within: Navigating Imposter Syndrome in DanceSend us a textIn this episode, Amanda and Leta delve into the complexities of Imposter Syndrome, and how it often affects dance students. They discuss how dance is often touted as a confidence booster for children, yet many dancers, including Leta, struggle with feelings of not belonging, not being perfect, and wanting to hide in the shadows. Tears are mixed with dark humor as they dive deep into Leta’s personal struggles with imposter syndrome.2025-05-0749 minLeta's Tap StylesEveryone Can Dance: Autism, Inclusivity and DanceSend us a textIn this episode of Leta’s Tap Styles, we talk about how anyone can dance. It doesn’t matter who you are, you can dance. We talk a bit about some of those people who were told they couldn’t dance or sing, or play a guitar. Yet they became some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry. We also thank Autistic Wings Dance Company’s April Donors and Supporters. And we finally get to tell the world that So Danca is one of the studio’s supporters! We end with a call for e...2025-04-3038 minLeta's Tap StylesDancing Through Life with Autism: with insights from April RatchfordSend us a textIn this episode of the Leta’s Tap Styles podcast, we welcome “Friend of the Podcast” April Ratchford. April brings her knowledge as an occupational therapist, as an autistic person, and as the mother of an autistic child to the table. (He will always be her child, even if he is now an adult.) Together with Leta's personal experiences - and a few mic drops - we discuss who gets to decide what an autistic person's limitations are, and why acceptance is accommodations, not ignoring autistic limitations exist.As always, when April...2025-04-2359 minLeta's Tap StylesThe Power of Therapy Dogs: Enhancing Education and Reducing StressSend us a textIn this episode of Leta’s Tap Styles Podcast, host Leta and her mom, Amanda, discuss the impact of therapy dogs in educational settings with Dr. Barbara Vokatis, half of an amazing therapy dog team, and a professor of Education. They explore the differences between therapy dogs, service dogs, and emotional support animals. Dr. Barb shares unique experiences of including her dog, Carmel, in classroom activities, enhancing learning and reducing stress among children. The conversation also delves into potential applications of therapy dogs in dance studios and other environments, stressing the importance of cr...2025-04-1957 minLeta's Tap StylesThe Spin of Eye Dominance: Understanding Neurodiversity in DanceSend us a textIn this episode of the Leta’s Tap Styles podcast, Leta and Amanda discuss the challenges and experiences involving eye dominance in dance, specifically addressing the left eye dominance and its impact on performing pirouettes. They explore the neurodiversity within dance studios, the importance of tailored accommodations, and the misunderstandings faced by autistic individuals. The episode also touches on the significance of supportive environments, individual preferences like favorite Pokémon and characters from My Little Pony, and the need for better training for educators working with neurodiverse students. Additionally, they highlight the unique asp...2025-04-1648 minLeta's Tap StylesDemystifying Autism: A Conversation with Autism Advocate Sam MitchellSend us a textIn this heartfelt episode of the Leta’s Tap Styles Podcast, host Leta and her mom welcome Sam, an autism advocate a podcaster, and the brain behind 'Autism Rocks and Rolls.' They discuss common misconceptions about autism, the struggles and strengths of autistic individuals, and the importance of creating inclusive spaces. Sam shares his experiences growing up with autism, the therapies that helped him, and the challenges he faced. They also talk about Leta’s nonprofit dance studio for autistic people and the need for greater awareness and acceptance. This episode is a can...2025-04-1254 minLeta's Tap StylesThe Autistic Dancer: Understanding, Acceptance, and AwarenessSend us a textIn this episode of 'Leta's Tap Styles', Leta and Amanda delve into their personal experiences with autism, focusing on how it defines their identity. They discuss how well-meaning people will often ignore that someone is autistic, using the phrase “I don’t see autism.” They discuss the misconceptions surrounding acceptance (especially when it comes to claiming acceptance is ignoring autism and the limitations autistic people face), the importance of true acknowledgment, and the necessity of accommodations. Highlighting their dance studio experiences, they recount the challenges of masking, the misunderstandings by teachers, and the emotio...2025-04-0942 minLeta's Tap StylesDance, Dogs, and Derpy on the RanchSend us a textThis week features Leta discussing her latest video and photo shoot, and how autism does or does not affect her ability to handle shoots. Leta also discusses her experiences dancing and interacting with animals. The conversation covers various subjects including filming for her tap dance career, how she manages sensory issues, and why she isn’t afraid of doing improv. Leta also shares her encounters with the “Not Hollywood” trained farm dogs during a video shoot on her grandfather's farm. (Along with a discussion about how cool the farm dogs are, and how fluffy...2025-04-0232 minLeta's Tap StylesKerie Logan on Parenting and the Power of AuthenticitySend us a textIn this episode, host Leta and her mom welcome guest Kerie Logan, a therapist, empowerment specialist, podcast host, and parent of an autistic child with PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance). They delve into topics such as autism, masking, the importance of parental understanding, and how technical difficulties impacted their recording session. Carrie shares personal experiences and professional advice on diagnosing autism, managing masking behaviors, and the significance of creating supportive environments for neurodivergent individuals. The conversation also critiques traditional approaches like ABA therapy and emphasizes the value of being authentic. C...2025-03-2147 minLeta's Tap StylesEach Step Speaks: Communication, Autism, and the Dance of LifeSend us a textIn this episode of Leta's Tap Styles podcast, Leta and Amanda host guest Mario Wissa, who shares his journey from Cairo, Egypt to the United States, his diverse professional background, and his passion for communication. The discussion delves into the challenges and nuances of communication, and how it is different for each and every individual. Mario takes some time to question Leta about her communication preferences, and discusses how little things like asking others how they communicate can help build bridges. Leta shares her creative projects, including clay artworks and the Lego polybag...2025-03-081h 15Leta's Tap StylesBeyond the Mask: Teaching Dance AuthenticallySend us a textIn this engaging conversation, Amanda and Leta discuss the intersection of autism and the dance studio. They focus on the importance of true authenticity and the detrimental effects of masking. They explore the challenges faced by autistic dancers in traditional dance environments, the role of teachers in fostering inclusivity, modeling true authenticity to their students, and the impact of generational trauma on perceptions of both physical and “hidden” limitations. (Such as physical disabilities, dyslexia, autism, and other disabilities.)Leta and Amanda emphasize the need for supportive spaces where everyone – dance teachers and da...2025-03-0549 minLeta's Tap StylesDiverse Beats: Life’s Dance Through NeurodiversitySend us a textIn this heartwarming and informative episode of 'Leta Tap Styles', hosts Leta and Amanda welcome Dr. Kristen Williamson, a licensed professional counselor with a PhD in Behavioral Health Management. Join them as they discuss living with autism and ADHD and how it affects their every day life. Come along as they share personal stories, the challenges of masking behaviors, and the unique experiences of military families. Shared anecdotes provide insights into the struggles and triumphs of managing neurodiverse conditions.Places you can find Dr Kristen Williamsonhttps://www.tiktok...2025-03-0157 minLeta's Tap StylesThe Pallet Cleanser Epsiode: A Little Bit of FluffSend us a textJoin Leta and Amanda on this week’s “Tap Tuesday” where they take a break from serious topics and discuss a little bit of fluff and toss in a breakdown of Chloe Arnold's choreography. You'll get a glimpse of their fun interactions, quirky discussions, and spontaneous moments. They also touch upon special events coming up, like the Hollywood and DC Tap Fests, and Leta’s admiration for her mentor, choreographer Chloe Arnold. Special mention of Aaron Watson, Leta's favorite singer of all times, liking Leta's dance video on Instagram adds a personal touch to the e...2025-02-2627 minLeta's Tap StylesRedefining Education and Inclusion with Dr. Bibi PirayeshSend us a textIn this episode of Leta Tap Styles podcast, guest Dr. Bibi Pirayesh, an educational therapist and adjunct faculty at Pepperdine University, joins us to discuss neurodiversity as a social justice. Especially when it comes to the needs of neurodiverse students in the world of education. Leta shares her personal experience with dance teachers. Dr. Bibi emphasizes the need to see neurodiversity as a social justice issue. She also discusses the need to critique the educational system's neurotypical structures. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals, the importance of inclusive teaching...2025-02-2251 minLeta's Tap StylesHow Masking Impacts the Autistic Dance StudentSend us a textIn this episode of the Leta’s Tap Styles, Leta and Amanda discuss the lifelong impacts of masking on autistic dancers. They discuss how dance studio owners and teachers – while well meaning – often cause harm by not understanding what masking is, how it manifests itself, and the physical and emotional harm masking causes. Even the most “inclusive” space seems to demand that their autistic dancers mask in order to make the studio owners and dance teachers not feel uncomfortable.Amanda and Leta share personal stories of when they were forced by adults to...2025-02-1946 minLeta's Tap StylesSticks and Stones: Teachers Inability to Understand Leaves Lasting ConsequencesSend us a textThis week, thirteen years old co-host, Leta, gets a bit personal as she discusses how her dance teachers words left deep wounds. Coming at the discussion from her invisible hip issues, Leta and Amanda discuss how dance teachers never fully understood how Leta's hip works. They talk about how dance teachers inability to fully comprehend the extent of Leta's hip problems have led to issues; from pushing Leta to the point of Leta hurting her hip again, to convincing Leta she will never be able to dance. Even the love and acceptance from...2025-02-1239 minLeta's Tap StylesChloe Arnold's Syncopated Ladies 2025 Concert Tour ReviewSend us a textChloe Arnold's Synco;ated Ladies have officially kicked off their 2025 Concert Tour. Join Amanda and Leta as they give their review of the two shows they watched. (Greeley on Feb 1st and Lone Tree on Feb 2nd.)Get your tickets - or let the Ladies know where they shoulg go next - by visiting https://www.syncopatedladies.comHelp Chloe and Maud keep tap dance alive for the next generation by donating at https://www.chloeandmaudfoundation.org/donateVisit our website for more information about Leta, Amanda...2025-02-0529 minLeta's Tap StylesThe Magic of Gene Kelly and Jerry the Mouse: A Choreography BreakdownSend us a textOn this week's "Tap Tuesday", Leta and Amanda breakdown the iconic Gene Kelly and Jerry the Mouse duet from "Anchors Away" (1945).Then, Leta and Amanda talk about what tap dancing means to Leta. The conversation transitions into the nonprofit dance studio Leta founded, Autistic Wings Dance Company. They discuss that the fact that Autistic Wings Dance Company has outgrown its current home. They talk about the studio's current fundraiser, 350 in 365, where they are hoping to raise enough money to pay the rent on a new, larger studio space.To...2025-01-2944 minLeta's Tap StylesSkiing, Climbing, and Living Beyond Labels: a conversation with Robert and Ryan DelanaSend us a textIn this episode of 'Leta's Tap Styles,' Leta and Amanda welcome Rob and Ryan Delana. We chat a bit about everyone's experiences dealing with neurodivergent diagnosises, and discuss what hasn't quite changed about the way we look at people who are different.. Then, Ryan shares his journey from being a misunderstood child with various diagnoses to becoming a successful skier and rock climbing guide. We talk about the importance of allowing children the freedom to explore their interests.We also discuss how parents need to trust themselves, and r...2025-01-251h 19Leta's Tap StylesNew Year, New Beginnings at Leta's Tap StylesSend us a textIn this lively conversation, Amanda and Leta kick off the new year by reflecting on their holiday experiences and discussing the upcoming season of the podcast. They delve into the world of tap dance, share their excitement for future guests, and explore the representation of tap in film, particularly in the musical Wicked. The duo also touches on the importance of creativity, inclusivity in dance, and the joy of welcoming new students to their dance studio.2025-01-0833 minLeta's Tap StylesEmpowering the Underserved Through Grants and Community Initiatives with Special Guest Matthew LeskoSend us a textAre you old enough to remember watching a guy in a suit filled with question marks talk all about free money? Or rushing to Tattered Cover to buy his latest book filled with government grants and lists of other places that gave away money. Before the rise of the internet search engine, there was Matthew Lesko's infomercials, books, and segments on Oprah. And Amanda geeked out on all of them.This week, Amanda and Leta welcome Matthew onto Leta's Tap Styles to discuss Matthew's latest venture, Lesko Helps, and other places...2025-01-0432 minLeta's Tap StylesA Christmas Eve Choreography Breakdown: Reacting to Chloe Arnold's "Ripple" from "Spirited: the Movie"Send us a textMerry Christmas! In today's holiday themed "Leta's Tap Styles", Leta and Amanda discuss Christmas cookies, Santa's upcoming visit, and breakdown one of Leta's favorite pieces of tap choreography of all time; "Ripple" from the movie "Spirited". (Choreographed by Leta's mentor, Chloe Arnold.)What's your favorite piece of Christmas Choreography? What's your favorite Holiday Treat? Text us your response.Happy Holidays from Leta and Amanda2024-12-2523 minLeta's Tap StylesSpreading Holiday Joy: A recap of Tapped into the Holidays 2024 with LetaSend us a textJoin us for a lively chat in this episode of "Leta's Tap Styles Tapped Into Tuesdays," where Leta humorously reflects on her experiences joining "Tapped Into the Holidays, LA" this year by Zoom. Try not to roll on the floor laughing as Leta discusses the challenges of joining master class weekends by Zoom, and in trying to learn Chloe and Maud Arnold Choreography in a couple of days. There may even be some self-deprocating humor about Leta's autism affecting her ability to quickly pick up choreography, especially over Zoom.This Holiday...2024-12-1834 minLeta's Tap StylesDancing Through Challenges: Leta's Inspirational TV Debut and the Dreams of Autistic Wings Dance CompanySend us a textWhat happens when a 13-year-old tap-dancing prodigy with autism and severe dyslexia takes on live television? Join us for a heartwarming episode as Letashares her experiences dancing on live television for the first time. From navigating the chaos of live TV, to charming audiences with the help of her sleepy dog co-host, Jack Elvis, to discussing coming up with a team to write and present an academic paper about Autistic Wings Dance Company's innovative Dance Studio IEP, this week's Leta's Tap Styles is filled with humor, resilience, and a touch of amazing dreams...2024-12-1447 minLeta's Tap StylesExploring the Festive Tap Dance Magic of Chloe and Maud's "Carol of the Bells"Send us a textIn the spirit of the holiday season, we turn our Tap Tuesday discussion towards festive choreography. Leta breaks down Chloe and Maud's rendition of "Carol of the Bells", and she recounts the fun of trying to teach her father Chloe's choreography. Join us for a conversation that blends humor, insight, and holiday cheer, as we appreciate the artistry and shared experiences that make tap dance so enchanting.Check out the original video and the songChloe and Maud's "Carol of the Bells"VideoMusicTo help...2024-12-1134 minLeta's Tap StylesUnwrapping Tap Treasures for the Holidays with LetaSend us a textEver wonder what's on co-host Leta's Tap Dancer's Holiday Wish List? Don't worry, she's here to tell you. From shoelaces to dance boards, to everything in between, here's her list of things to buy your favorite tap dancer.We promised you links to all of her favorite things she talked about in the show. (These are not a paid endorsement. Leta just loves these products.)Dance Daze Dance Boards Jet SetterDance Daze Dance Boards DistrictSo Danca Taylas TA800Vs So Danca Eat, Dance, S...2024-12-0436 minLeta's Tap StylesWicked Reflections: Autism, Music, Dance, and Life with LetaSend us a textSpoiler Alert: Contains Discussions About Music from "Wicked: Part 1"Autism, Dance, and 'Wicked': A Heartfelt DiscussionIn this episode of 'Leta's Tap Styles,' Amanda and 13-year-old Leta discuss their recent experience watching 'Wicked' and delve into how the themes and characters resonate with Leta's experiences as an autistic individual. They explore Leta's love for urban tap, her challenges fitting into traditional dance studios, and the significance of representation and inclusivity in the arts. The conversation traverses emotional landscapes, including the stigmas Leta faces, her unique views on stimming...2024-11-3059 min