In performing arts education, there are some students who love the spotlight, and others who just love to be there, participating, without the pressure and responsibility of being the lead role. Samuel Auguste was one of the latter. Tune in to learn three of the most important lessons Sam learned during his time in the rehearsal studio and on stage. Blog at staceytirro.com

Watch on YouTube Changed for the Better Theme: written and performed by Brianna Knight Graphic Design: Michael DelPup © Changed for the Better, 2023

Not all of my guests craved the spotlight. Some were very happy behind-the-scenes, putting their production talents to good use in quieter ways. Matthew Hochberg, class of 1998, spent his senior year assimilating back into public school life through Thespian Troupe 721. There, he leaned on the safe community as he figured out what would inspire his future. Changed for the Better Blog Changed for the Better Theme: written and performed by Brianna Knight Graphic Design: Michael DelPup © Changed for the Better, 2023

A running theme on this podcast is the non-linear path to now. Whether for a change of heart or change of circumstance, the road people take often diverge multiple times from the one they set out upon. Sometimes, you have a few guardian angels to help lead the way. From teen mom to LPN to NP, Esskee Nance-Doucet has climbed mountainous terrain in order to smell the sweet, clean air of success. Tune in for her story. Changed for the Better Blog Changed for the Better Theme: written and performed by Brianna Knight Graphic Design: Michael DelPup © Changed for the Better, 2023

Tina Vasquez is the owner and CEO of Emerging Equity, a consulting firm that focuses on cultural transformation in institutions and systems. Tune in to hear how this powerhouse entrepreneur, mom, and dancing queen used the lessons from the studio to tap into her creativity, intuition, and find her voice. Blog: staceytirro.com Music: written and performed by Brianna Knight Graphic Design: Michael DelPup ©Changed for the Better, 2023

Welcome to season four! Ornely Aubourg was one of my tried and true students, my tiny dancer, so to speak. In school, the dance studio was her safe space, a leotard and tights was her outfit of choice, and being in the spotlight was her comfort zone. Now, this working mom is a healer and a teacher as a first responder. Tune in to learn how she has connected her performing arts training to her role as an EMT. Blog: staceytirro.com Music: written and performed by Brianna Knight Graphic Design: Michael DelPup ©Changed for the Better, 2023

Welcome to the final episode of season three of "Changed for the Better!" I can't think of a better person to have join me for this momentous occasion.

Karema Brown has an educator's heart. Her mission is to do all she can to improve the school experience for her kids. Tune in to hear her story of service, how she processed her complicated roles as a Black woman, educator, and daughter of the badge, and how the dance studio taught her that vulnerability is a strength to be cherished.

Read the blog at staceytirro.com

Watch the full episode on YouTube

MUSIC written and performed by: Brianna Knight

GRAPHIC design: Michael DelPup

Joseph "Royalty" Wallace, once a pulsing ball of energy, has focused his creativity and discipline to become a successful man in finance and entrepreneurship. Trustco Bank manager by day, owner of House of Kings, LLC after hours, and always a family man. Tune in to learn how dance was the catalyst for his leap into leadership.

Read the blog at staceytirro.com

Watch the full episode on YouTube

MUSIC written and performed by: Brianna Knight

GRAPHIC design: Michael DelPup

Bria Manning is someone who sees what she wants and she gets it. Back in high school, she poured her energy into the Spring Valley community as a class officer, cheerleader, and active Thespian and dancer. Now entrenched in her quarter-century status, she is finding ways to balance the requirements of adulting with her need for community, creativity and dancing. Tune in to hear her story!

Watch the full episode on YouTube

Read the Blog about Bria

MUSIC: Brianna Knight

GRAPHIC: Michael DelPup