We all know that dancers have their own unique style. Welcome to our interview with the founders of Barre Trash, Lucas Labrador and Louis DeFelice as they let us in on ballet’s not-so-glamorous side—with honesty, humor, and a sharp eye for merch. In this episode, they talk about how Barre Trash was born, what the name really means, and how their side hustle turned into a platform for both laughter and change. From surviving on dancer salaries to calling out industry nonsense, Lucas and Louis share why they believe humor is a coping mechanism—and a catalyst for reform. Plus: the Yale detour, the realities of multi-hyphenate life, and what they’d put on a T-shirt if they could sum up ballet in one phrase.

You can shop Barre Trash products on the Ballet Help Desk Summer Intensive Essentials Guide or on the Barre Trash website

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Music from #Uppbeat:

https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future

License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI

Why open a ballet school in San Antonio? Former Pacific Northwest Ballet principals Lindsi Dec and Karel Cruz share what inspired them to found DeCruz Ballet, how their training model stands apart, and where they see their school fitting into the evolving ballet ecosystem. They discuss everything from attracting male students and navigating competition culture, to counseling dancers through audition season and offering guidance on college ballet paths and postgrad training. With honest insight and a dancer-first mindset, Dec and Cruz are shaping the next generation their way.

Learn more about DeCruz Ballet School
Read reviews of the school

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Music from #Uppbeat:

https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future

License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI

Silas Farley walked away from his performing career while he was arguably at the top of his game. In this thoughtful and deeply personal conversation, Farley—former New York City Ballet dancer and current choreographer, educator, and leader—reflects on his journey through the ballet world. He shares how his cultural background shaped his experience, the pressures of representation, and what ultimately led him to step away from the stage at a young age. Silas opens up about the emotional challenges of transition, the role of faith and mentorship, and why he’s committed to building a more inclusive and emotionally intelligent future for ballet. We also explore how training can evolve without losing its rigor, and what he’d say to a young boy considering dance today. This is a must-listen for anyone questioning what it means to succeed in ballet—and how to define that for yourself.

Learn more about Silas Farley and his curent role as Armstrong Artist in Residence, Meadows School of the Arts at Southern Methodist University.

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Music from #Uppbeat:

https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future

License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI