ArtsPerforming Arts

Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast

Impact Dance Adjudicators

Have you ever wondered what goes on inside the mind of a dance competition judge? What does it take to impress the people behind the table?

Join your hosts Courtney Ortiz, professional dancer, educator and owner of Impact Dance Adjudicators, and Lesley Mealor, veteran performer and judge, on Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, as they dive into all things dance competition!

Each week, listen as Courtney and Lesley discuss various hot topics with members of the IDA judges’ roster and other special guests in the dance world, from technique, to costumes, to the dreaded question - “Tights…or no tights?” Stay tuned for special spotlight episodes, round table chats and so much more! Weekly episodes launch every Thursday throughout the dance season! @impactdanceadjudicators

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S8 · E272
Today · 1 hr 10 min
The Dance Teachers Who Impacted Us featuring Lesley’s Teachers
Send us Fan Mail Guests - Kristen Cochran and Dawn Parker Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor In Episode 272 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, we honor the teachers who impacted us during our journey in the dance world. Today, Lesley's teachers Kristen Cochran and Dawn Parker join us to share their memories of teaching Lesley in the studio, and celebrate the successes she's had along the way! Topics Include: How the transition from a more relaxed studio atmosphere to a stricter approach went with Dawn at the helm Kristen's memories of choreographing solos via email The effects both teachers had on Lesley throughout the years, not only in dance but in life Help support our podcast! Join Making The Impact's Platinum Premium Subscription today! Your membership includes: Monthly Q&A episodes released to members only Priority to have your questions answered each month on the live Q&A. Ad-free listening for all of Seasons 4 through 8. No sponsored ads! 20% off all IDA Merchandise Exclusive bonus content released throughout the year Discounted IDA Online Critique Group Zoom check-ins 3x per season with Courtney Ortiz! Your support helps us produce future episodes of Making The Impact for years to come! Making The Impact's Platinum Premium - Sign up now for only $5/month! Follow your Hosts & Guests! Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance Kristen Cochran - @Viamholdingsltd Dawn Parker - @dancerdawn5 Check out our guest’s current projects! Catch "Parade" at The Strand Theatre in Marietta, GA, directed by Dawn Parker, through September 20 - Tickets available here! This episode is sponsored by: YoungArts Applications are open for the 2027 National YoungArts Competition, available for artists ages 15-18 or in grades 10-12. Deadline to apply is October 6th, 2026. Learn more at www.YoungArts.org Check out our service: IDA Online Judge's Critiques Send us a video of your dance and an IDA Judge will critique your routine! You can request a genre-specific specialty judge or add on 10 minutes of additional feedback. 24 hour rush delivery available! Submit your video now! Check out our IDA Affiliated Competition: Axis Dance Competition! Visit their website to view their upcoming tour dates! Join our FREE Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community New for Season 8! Making the Impact is now available on video! Find us wherever you watch video podcasts and on Youtube! Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you! Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! Follow Impact Dance Adjudicators on social media @impactdanceadjudicators and for a list of IDA Affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at www.impactdanceadjudicators.com Support the show
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S8 · E271
September 10 · 1 hr
LIVE! From Dance Teacher Web Vegas 2026
Send us Fan Mail Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor In Episode 271 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, Courtney and Lesley are live from Vegas, where they hosted a Q&A at Dance Teacher Web! Thanks to all of the wonderful participants for attending! Topics Include: The never-ending levels discussion Lyrical vs contemporary - how to place routines in the correct category How to hold true to your values as a studio when there is so much outside influence Help support our podcast! Join Making The Impact's Platinum Premium Subscription today! Your membership includes: Monthly Q&A episodes released to members only Priority to have your questions answered each month on the live Q&A. Ad-free listening for all of Seasons 4 through 8. No sponsored ads! 20% off all IDA Merchandise Exclusive bonus content released throughout the year Discounted IDA Online Critique Group Zoom check-ins 3x per season with Courtney Ortiz! Your support helps us produce future episodes of Making The Impact for years to come! Making The Impact's Platinum Premium - Sign up now for only $5/month! Follow your Hosts! Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance This episode is sponsored by: YoungArts Applications are open for the 2027 National YoungArts Competition, available for artists ages 15-18 or in grades 10-12. Deadline to apply is October 6th, 2026. Learn more at www.YoungArts.org Dance Teacher Web Conference and Expo This summer July 27-30, 2027 in Las Vegas, NV! 140+ master classes, seminars, events, & more for continuing education and networking in the dance community! Join our FREE Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community New for Season 8! Making the Impact is now available on video! Find us wherever you watch video podcasts and on Youtube! Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you! Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! Follow Impact Dance Adjudicators on social media @impactdanceadjudicators and for a list of IDA Affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at www.impactdanceadjudicators.com Support the show
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S8 · E270
September 7 · 1 hr 1 min
Studio Spotlight - Stacey's Studio of Dance Education
Send us Fan Mail Guests: Stacey Dimberio and Brooke MacIver Hosted by Courtney Ortiz & Lesley Mealor The winner of the Making the Impact Award fan favorite contest from 2026 is Stacey's Studio of Dance Education's routine "Somebody To Love"! We are excited to welcome choreographer Brooke MacIver and owner Stacey Dimberio to the podcast to tell us all about Stacey's Studio of Dance Education in this studio spotlight episode! Follow Stacey's Studio of Dance Education @Staceysstudioofdance and be sure to check out their upcoming projects. Help support our podcast. Join Making The Impact's Platinum Premium Subscription today! Your membership includes: Monthly Q&A episodes released to members-only Priority to have your questions answered each month on the live Q&A. Ad-free listening for all of Seasons 4-8. No sponsored ads! 20% off all IDA Merchandise Exclusive bonus content released throughout the year Discounted IDA Online Critique Group Zoom check-ins 3x per season with Courtney Ortiz! Your support helps us produce future episodes of Making The Impact for years to come! Making The Impact's Platinum Premium - Sign up now for only $5/month! This episode is sponsored by: Check out our service: IDA Online Judge's Critiques Send us a video of your dance and an IDA Judge will critique your routine! You can request a genre-specific specialty judge or add on 10 minutes of additional feedback. 24 hour rush delivery available! Submit your video now! IDA Affiliated Competition - Elevation On Tour! View their upcoming Tour Dates on their website! Follow your Hosts & Guests! Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance Stacey's Studio of Dance Education - @Staceysstudioofdance Join our FREE Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community New for Season 8! Making the Impact is now available on video! Find us wherever you watch video podcasts and on Youtube! Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you! Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! Follow us on social media at @impactdanceadjudicators and for a list of IDA Affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at www.impactdanceadjudicators.com Support the show
- Transcript
September 3 · 36 min
Welcome to Season 8!
Send us Fan Mail Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor Welcome to Season 8 of Making the Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast! Courtney and Lesley have some fun news to share about this season, as well as a recap of the summer! Topics Include: New for season 8 - we're on video! 🎥 Cover art contest winners Exciting opportunities at Dance Teacher Web and Dance One Summit over the summer Help support our podcast! Join Making The Impact's Platinum Premium Subscription today! Your membership includes: Monthly Q&A episodes released to members only Priority to have your questions answered each month on the live Q&A. Ad-free listening for all of Seasons 4 through 8. No sponsored ads! 20% off all IDA Merchandise Exclusive bonus content released throughout the year Discounted IDA Online Critique Group Zoom check-ins 3x per season with Courtney Ortiz! Your support helps us produce future episodes of Making The Impact for years to come! Making The Impact's Platinum Premium - Sign up now for only $5/month! Follow your Hosts & Guests! Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance Join our FREE Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community New for Season 8! Making the Impact is now available on video! Find us wherever you watch video podcasts and on Youtube! Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you! Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! Follow Impact Dance Adjudicators on social media @impactdanceadjudicators and for a list of IDA Affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at www.impactdanceadjudicators.com Support the show
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August 2 · 36 min
Summer Bonus Episode! - Live from The Artistry Tour Nationals 2026
Send us Fan Mail IDA Judges - Brittany Nicholas, Kyle Rostan, Sally Cofield, Marie Choate Hosted By - Holly Shipley Produced By: Making the Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast We are excited to have partnered with IDA affiliated Competition The Artistry Tour to host a live-podcast at their 2026 Nationals event this summer in Michigan. The owner of The Artistry Tour Holly Shipley moderated this chat featuring 4 IDA Judges: Brittany Nicholas, Marie Choate, Kyle Rostan and Sally Cofield. Thank you to The Artistry Tour for sponsoring this episode and we hope you enjoy! Topics Include: What stands out on stage as a judge Career paths in the arts Why networking is so important How artistry plays a role at competition What truly matters to have a career in dance Help support our podcast. Join Making The Impact's Platinum Premium Subscription today! Your membership includes: Monthly Q&A episodes released to members-only Priority to have your questions answered each month on the live Q&A. Ad-free listening for all of Season 4 & 5. No sponsored ads! 20% off all IDA Merchandise Exclusive bonus content released throughout the year Discounted IDA Online Critique Group Zoom check-ins 3x per season with Courtney Ortiz! Your support helps us produce future episodes of Making The Impact for years to come! Making The Impact's Platinum Premium - Sign up now for only $5/month! Follow your Hosts & Guests! The Artistry Tour - @theartistrytour Brittany Nicholas - @brittnnicholas Kyle Rostan - @kylerostan Marie Choate - @marie_choate Sally Cofield - @saldancer To learn more about The Artistry Tour and to register for an event in their 2027 Season, visit their website: www.theartistrytour.com Join our FREE Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you! Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! Follow Impact Dance Adjudicators on social media @impactdanceadjudicators and for a list of IDA Affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at www.impactdanceadjudicators.com Support the show
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July 2 · 56 min
Judging Horror Stories - Why Treatment On Events Needs an Industry-Wide Overhaul! - Part 2
Send us Fan Mail Guests - Robb Gibbs, Brittni Johnson, and Anonymous Submissions Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor To close out Season 7 of Making the Impact, we are getting real about the often unspoken truths in the dance competition judging space. Veteran IDA judges Robb Gibbs and Brittni Johnson, as well as anonymous submissions from judges around the country, share what it can really be like during those long weekends behind the table. Spoiler alert - sometimes it's not pretty. This is part 2 of this episode. Part 1 which released back on May 28th, 2026. Click here to listen to part 1. Topics Include: Discussing the reasons we love judging - and the reasons that it becomes harder and harder each season Travel nightmares and lodging snafus - all to save a dollar The realities of trying to stay true to your values while adhering to company policies Help support our podcast! Join Making The Impact's Platinum Premium Subscription today! Your membership includes: Monthly Q&A episodes released to members only Priority to have your questions answered each month on the live Q&A. Ad-free listening for all of Seasons 4 through 7. No sponsored ads! 20% off all IDA Merchandise Exclusive bonus content released throughout the year Discounted IDA Online Critique Group Zoom check-ins 3x per season with Courtney Ortiz! Your support helps us produce future episodes of Making The Impact for years to come! Making The Impact's Platinum Premium - Sign up now for only $5/month! Follow your Hosts & Guests! Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance Robb Gibbs - @robb.gibbs Brittni Johnson - @being_brittni, @alignment.in.dance Check out our service: IDA Online Judge's Critiques Send us a video of your dance and an IDA Judge will critique your routine! You can request a genre-specific specialty judge or add on 10 minutes of additional feedback. 24 hour rush delivery available! Submit your video now! Join our FREE Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you! Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! Follow Impact Dance Adjudicators on social media @impactdanceadjudicators and for a list of IDA Affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at www.impactdanceadjudicators.com Support the show
- Transcript
S7 · E270
May 28 · 34 min
Season 7 Wrap Up!
Send us Fan Mail Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor That's a wrap on Season 7 of Making the Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast! Thank you to all our loyal listeners who have been here since the beginning for all your support, and to our new fans who have joined us this year! We can't wait to share season 8 with you - but for now, happy summer! MARK YOUR CALENDARS: Season 8 is scheduled to release on Thursday, September 3rd, 2026. Topics Include: Favorite episodes of Season 7 Info on summer bonus episodes What's new for Season 8 Help support our podcast! Join Making The Impact's Platinum Premium Subscription today! Your membership includes: Monthly Q&A episodes released to members only Priority to have your questions answered each month on the live Q&A. Ad-free listening for all of Seasons 4 through 7. No sponsored ads! 20% off all IDA Merchandise Exclusive bonus content released throughout the year Discounted IDA Online Critique Group Zoom check-ins 3x per season with Courtney Ortiz! Your support helps us produce future episodes of Making The Impact for years to come! Making The Impact's Platinum Premium - Sign up now for only $5/month! Follow your Hosts! Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance Impact Dance Adjudicators - @impactdanceadjudicators Join our FREE Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you! Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! Follow Impact Dance Adjudicators on social media @impactdanceadjudicators and for a list of IDA Affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at www.impactdanceadjudicators.com Support the show
- Transcript
S7 · E269
May 28 · 1 hr 9 min
Judging Horror Stories - Why Treatment On Events Needs an Industry-Wide Overhaul! - Part 1
Send us Fan Mail Guests - Robb Gibbs, Brittni Johnson, and Anonymous Submissions Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor To close out Season 7 of Making the Impact, we are getting real about the often unspoken truths in the dance competition judging space. Veteran IDA judges Robb Gibbs and Brittni Johnson, as well as anonymous submissions from judges around the country, share what it can really be like during those long weekends behind the table. Spoiler alert - sometimes it's not pretty. This is the first episode of a two episode series, so stay tuned for part 2 releasing as a summer bonus episode in June! Topics Include: Discussing the reasons we love judging - and the reasons that it becomes harder and harder each season Travel nightmares and lodging snafus - all to save a dollar The realities of trying to stay true to your values while adhering to company policies Help support our podcast! Join Making The Impact's Platinum Premium Subscription today! Your membership includes: Monthly Q&A episodes released to members only Priority to have your questions answered each month on the live Q&A. Ad-free listening for all of Seasons 4 through 7. No sponsored ads! 20% off all IDA Merchandise Exclusive bonus content released throughout the year Discounted IDA Online Critique Group Zoom check-ins 3x per season with Courtney Ortiz! Your support helps us produce future episodes of Making The Impact for years to come! Making The Impact's Platinum Premium - Sign up now for only $5/month! Follow your Hosts & Guests! Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance Robb Gibbs - @robb.gibbs Brittni Johnson - @being_brittni, @alignment.in.dance Check out our service: IDA Online Judge's Critiques Send us a video of your dance and an IDA Judge will critique your routine! You can request a genre-specific specialty judge or add on 10 minutes of additional feedback. 24 hour rush delivery available! Submit your video now! Join our FREE Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you! Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! Follow Impact Dance Adjudicators on social media @impactdanceadjudicators and for a list of IDA Affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at www.impactdanceadjudicators.com Support the show
- Transcript
S7 · E268
May 21 · 1 hr 34 min
Throwback! - S3 EP 96 – How to NOT be a Stage Mom!
Send us Fan Mail Guests - Summer Aiello & Shannon Thomas Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor Our final throwback episode is one for the dance moms out there! Being a dance parent requires learning a lot of new information, from theatre etiquette to competition structures. But one thing that’s not covered in any studio handbook is how not to be a stage mom. Join studio owner Shannon Thomas and veteran dance mom Summer Aiello for this informative chat! This episode originally aired on March 24, 2022. Topics Include: Understanding boundaries between your dancer and your studio owner Learning what is acceptable dance parent behavior How to stay involved without pushing limits Help support our podcast! Join Making The Impact's Platinum Premium Subscription today! Your membership includes: Monthly Q&A episodes released to members only Priority to have your questions answered each month on the live Q&A. Ad-free listening for all of Seasons 4 through 7. No sponsored ads! 20% off all IDA Merchandise Exclusive bonus content released throughout the year Discounted IDA Online Critique Group Zoom check-ins 3x per season with Courtney Ortiz! Your support helps us produce future episodes of Making The Impact for years to come! Making The Impact's Platinum Premium - Sign up now for only $5/month! Follow your Hosts & Guests! Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance Summer @Summerbellies Shannon @legacydance386 This episode is sponsored by: Check out our service: IDA Online Judge's Critiques Send us a video of your dance and an IDA Judge will critique your routine! You can request a genre-specific specialty judge or add on 10 minutes of additional feedback. 24 hour rush delivery available! Submit your video now! Join our FREE Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you! Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! Follow Impact Dance Adjudicators on social media @impactdanceadjudicators and for a list of IDA Affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at www.impactdanceadjudicators.com Support the show
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S7 · E267
May 14 · 1 hr 19 min
Raising the New Generation - Former Dancers Who Are Now Competitive Dance Parents
Send us Fan Mail Guests - Lynne McNelis and Jennifer Lobaito Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor In Episode 267 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, two former dancers join us to chat about what it's like to raise competitive dancers in this new era in the industry. From memories of "the good old days" to current challenges and joys, this is an episode you don't want to miss! Topics Include: The search for the right dance studio Differences between the old generation and the new generation of dancers Setting your dancer up for what success looks like for them using your knowledge of dance Help support our podcast! Join Making The Impact's Platinum Premium Subscription today! Your membership includes: Monthly Q&A episodes released to members only Priority to have your questions answered each month on the live Q&A. Ad-free listening for all of Seasons 4 through 7. No sponsored ads! 20% off all IDA Merchandise Exclusive bonus content released throughout the year Discounted IDA Online Critique Group Zoom check-ins 3x per season with Courtney Ortiz! Your support helps us produce future episodes of Making The Impact for years to come! Making The Impact's Platinum Premium - Sign up now for only $5/month! Follow your Hosts & Guests! Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance Lynne McNelis - @lynnemcnelis Jennifer Lobaito - @Dancefixwithjenn This episode is sponsored by: The DanceOne Summit The premier event for dance teachers and studio owners to unite. share. inspire! This summer in New York City - August 13-16th, 2026. Register now for $100 off using promo code: DOS26IMPACT Check out our service: IDA Online Judge's Critiques Send us a video of your dance and an IDA Judge will critique your routine! You can request a genre-specific specialty judge or add on 10 minutes of additional feedback. 24 hour rush delivery available! Submit your video now! Check out IDA affiliated competition True Dance Challenge! www.truedancechallenge.com Join our FREE Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you! Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! Follow Impact Dance Adjudicators on social media @impactdanceadjudicators and for a list of IDA Affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at www.impactdanceadjudicators.com Support the show
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S7 · E266
May 7 · 50 min
Throwback! - S1 EP 21 – Beyond the Barre - Why Ballet Matters in Competitive Dance
Send us Fan Mail Guests - Carrie Euker, Holly Gannett Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor Today's throwback episode takes us back to Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast's very first season! This episode features IDA judges Carrie Euker and Holly Gannett discussing ways to keep ballet fun, relevant and beloved in the dance competition world. This episode originally aired on March 30, 2020. Topics Include: Ideas for keeping ballet class interesting What judges look for in a ballet competition routine How ballet can benefit other styles of dance Help support our podcast! Join Making The Impact's Platinum Premium Subscription today! Your membership includes: Monthly Q&A episodes released to members only Priority to have your questions answered each month on the live Q&A. Ad-free listening for all of Seasons 4 through 7. No sponsored ads! 20% off all IDA Merchandise Exclusive bonus content released throughout the year Discounted IDA Online Critique Group Zoom check-ins 3x per season with Courtney Ortiz! Your support helps us produce future episodes of Making The Impact for years to come! Making The Impact's Platinum Premium - Sign up now for only $5/month! Follow your Hosts & Guests! Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance Carrie Euker - @CMEuker Holly Gannett - @Hollcoll77 This episode is sponsored by: The DanceOne Summit The premier event for dance teachers and studio owners to unite. share. inspire! This summer in New York City - August 13-16th, 2026. Register now for $100 off using promo code: DOS26IMPACT Join our FREE Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you! Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! Follow Impact Dance Adjudicators on social media @impactdanceadjudicators and for a list of IDA Affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at www.impactdanceadjudicators.com Support the show
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S7 · E265
April 30 · 1 hr 7 min
All About Pointe For Training Dancers
Send us Fan Mail Guests - Kathryn Morgan and Tommie Lin Kesten Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor In Episode 265 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, guests Kathryn Morgan and Tommie Lin Kesten join us for an eye-opening chat about pointe! From pointe-readiness to shoe preparation, we dive into the challenges and joys of dancing en pointe! Topics Include: The real amount of training that should occur prior to going en pointe Tips for finding the right pointe shoe for you Is pre-pointe class necessary? Help support our podcast! Join Making The Impact's Platinum Premium Subscription today! Your membership includes: Monthly Q&A episodes released to members only Priority to have your questions answered each month on the live Q&A. Ad-free listening for all of Seasons 4 through 7. No sponsored ads! 20% off all IDA Merchandise Exclusive bonus content released throughout the year Discounted IDA Online Critique Group Zoom check-ins 3x per season with Courtney Ortiz! Your support helps us produce future episodes of Making The Impact for years to come! Making The Impact's Platinum Premium - Sign up now for only $5/month! Follow your Hosts & Guests! Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance Kathryn Morgan - @Kathryn_Morgan Tommie Lin Kesten - @tommielin This episode is sponsored by: The DanceOne Summit The premier event for dance teachers and studio owners to unite. share. inspire! This summer in New York City - August 13-16th, 2026. Register now for $100 off using promo code: DOS26IMPACT Check out IDA Affiliated Competition Star Talent Productions! View their 2027 season tour dates and register now at www.startalentproductions.com Join our FREE Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you! Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! Follow Impact Dance Adjudicators on social media @impactdanceadjudicators and for a list of IDA Affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at www.impactdanceadjudicators.com Support the show
- Transcript
S7 · E264
April 23 · 56 min
IDA Competition Spotlight - Star Talent Productions
Send us Fan Mail Guests: Jennifer Armstrong, Devin Pendleton and James Murphy Hosted by: Courtney Ortiz Today's IDA Competition Spotlight episode features Star Talent Productions, based in North Carolina and celebrating their 20th season this year! Owner Jennifer Armstrong and emcees Devin Pendleton and James Murphy join Courtney to chat about their journeys in the competition space, and what makes Star Talent Productions stand out from the crowd! Follow Jennifer Armstrong, Devin Pendleton and James Murphy on social media - @StarTalentDance, @startalentdevin, @startalentjames and be sure to check out their upcoming projects. Help support our podcast. Join Making The Impact's Platinum Premium Subscription today! Your membership includes: Monthly Q&A episodes released to members-only Priority to have your questions answered each month on the live Q&A. Ad-free listening for all of Season 4 & 5. No sponsored ads! 20% off all IDA Merchandise Exclusive bonus content released throughout the year Discounted IDA Online Critique Group Zoom check-ins 3x per season with Courtney Ortiz! Your support helps us produce future episodes of Making The Impact for years to come! Making The Impact's Platinum Premium - Sign up now for only $5/month! This episode is sponsored by: Check out IDA Affiliated Competition Star Talent Productions! View their 2027 season tour dates and register now at www.startalentproductions.com Check out our service: IDA Online Judge's Critiques Send us a video of your dance and an IDA Judge will critique your routine! You can request a genre-specific specialty judge or add on 10 minutes of additional feedback. 24 hour rush delivery available! Submit your video now! Follow your Host & Guests! Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz Jennifer Armstrong - @StarTalentDance Devin Pendleton - @startalentdevin James Murphy - @startalentjames Join our NEW Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you! Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! Follow us on social media at @impactdanceadjudicators and for a list of IDA Affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at www.impactdanceadjudicators.com Support the show
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S7 · E263
April 16 · 1 hr 3 min
Bringing Inclusivity and Diversity to Competitive Dance
Send us Fan Mail Guests - Ty Williams, Tonysha McIntosh, Haley Everett Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor In Episode 263 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, we are joined by studio owners Ty Williams and Tonysha McIntosh, and dance educator Haley Everett to talk about the many ways competitive dance can be more inclusive and diverse. Dancers from all walks of life deserve to feel welcomed and included at dance competitions, and our guests are doing great work in the field to contribute to that positive atmosphere. Topics Include: What Haley's All Needs dance classes are all about, and advice for others who are interested in adding inclusive programming The types of diversity that people often overlook in competitive spaces (diversity of style of dance, age, and race on judging panels, diversity of competition leadership) and why it's important for everyone to be represented What work still needs to be done to make competition spaces more inclusive Help support our podcast! Join Making The Impact's Platinum Premium Subscription today! Your membership includes: Monthly Q&A episodes released to members only Priority to have your questions answered each month on the live Q&A. Ad-free listening for all of Seasons 4 through 7. No sponsored ads! 20% off all IDA Merchandise Exclusive bonus content released throughout the year Discounted IDA Online Critique Group Zoom check-ins 3x per season with Courtney Ortiz! Your support helps us produce future episodes of Making The Impact for years to come! Making The Impact's Platinum Premium - Sign up now for only $5/month! Follow your Hosts & Guests! Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance Ty Williams - @Ty.Williams.5, @tntdanceacademy_ Tonysha McIntosh - @nyshfaith, @tntdanceacademy_ Haley Everett - @haley_everett19, @studio19dancecompany This episode is sponsored by: Check out our service: IDA Online Judge's Critiques Send us a video of your dance and an IDA Judge will critique your routine! You can request a genre-specific specialty judge or add on 10 minutes of additional feedback. 24 hour rush delivery available! Submit your video now! Join our FREE Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you! Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! Follow Impact Dance Adjudicators on social media @impactdanceadjudicators and for a list of IDA Affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at www.impactdanceadjudicators.com Support the show
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S7 · E262
April 9 · 1 hr
Throwback! - S3 EP 77 - The Open Category - Expectations from Your Judges
Send us Fan Mail Guests - Ashley Marinelli and Amy Maze Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor Today's throwback episode was one of our most popular episodes in season 3 - expectations in the open category! This conversation is far from over even five years later, and IDA judges Ashley and Amy don't skimp on the advice for dancers entering in this nebulous category. This episode originally aired on November 11, 2021. Topics Include: What dances should (and shouldn't) be entered into the open category How the open category is judged Judges' pet peeves about the open category Help support our podcast! Join Making The Impact's Platinum Premium Subscription today! Your membership includes: Monthly Q&A episodes released to members only Priority to have your questions answered each month on the live Q&A. Ad-free listening for all of Seasons 4 through 7. No sponsored ads! 20% off all IDA Merchandise Exclusive bonus content released throughout the year Discounted IDA Online Critique Group Zoom check-ins 3x per season with Courtney Ortiz! Your support helps us produce future episodes of Making The Impact for years to come! Making The Impact's Platinum Premium - Sign up now for only $5/month! Follow your Hosts & Guests! Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance Ashley Marinelli - @alm433 Amy Maze - @mazeamy This episode is sponsored by: Check out our service: IDA Online Judge's Critiques Send us a video of your dance and an IDA Judge will critique your routine! You can request a genre-specific specialty judge or add on 10 minutes of additional feedback. 24 hour rush delivery available! Submit your video now! Join our FREE Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you! Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! Follow Impact Dance Adjudicators on social media @impactdanceadjudicators and for a list of IDA Affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at www.impactdanceadjudicators.com Support the show
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S7 · E261
April 2 · 1 hr 13 min
A Day in the Life of a Competition Staff Member
Send us Fan Mail Guests - Haley Crocombe and Cat Milone Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor In Episode 261 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, we go backstage with the folks who keep competitions running to find out what a day in their lives look like on a busy event weekend! Our guests today serve as tally manager, backstage manager and emcee and the show can't go on without them. If you've ever wanted to work for a dance competition, this is the episode for you! Topics Include: A brief run down of the weekend's duties from start to finish What load in and load out entail A look at the most rewarding parts of competition from behind the scenes Advice for studio owners and teachers to help competitions run smoothly Help support our podcast! Join Making The Impact's Platinum Premium Subscription today! Your membership includes: Monthly Q&A episodes released to members only Priority to have your questions answered each month on the live Q&A. Ad-free listening for all of Seasons 4 through 7. No sponsored ads! 20% off all IDA Merchandise Exclusive bonus content released throughout the year Discounted IDA Online Critique Group Zoom check-ins 3x per season with Courtney Ortiz! Your support helps us produce future episodes of Making The Impact for years to come! Making The Impact's Platinum Premium - Sign up now for only $5/month! Follow your Hosts & Guests! Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance Haley Crocombe - @haleycrocombe Cat Milone - @catmillermilone Check out our guest’s current projects! Visit ActorsNET of Bucks County Summer Stars Program to sponsor full and partial scholarships for children ages 7-17. Donations are tax deductible and help local children in Bucks County, PA access theatre programming during the summer! This episode is sponsored by: Check out our service: IDA Online Judge's Critiques Send us a video of your dance and an IDA Judge will critique your routine! You can request a genre-specific specialty judge or add on 10 minutes of additional feedback. 24 hour rush delivery available! Submit your video now! Join our FREE Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you! Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! Follow Impact Dance Adjudicators on social media @impactdanceadjudicators and for a list of IDA Affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at www.impactdanceadjudicators.com Support the show
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S7 · E260
March 26 · 1 hr 5 min
Throwback! - S4 EP 122 – The World of College Dance Teams - What You Need to Know
Send us Fan Mail Guests - Melissa McGhee and Carsen Rowe Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor Our next throwback episode of Making the Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast brings back a fan favorite, with more dance team talk! Our guests share what it's like to be on a college dance team, what recruitment looks like, and ways to prep for auditions! This episode originally aired on December 1, 2022. Topics Include: The differences and similarities in the training that goes into preparing for dance teams and other kinds of dance Recruitment strategies and how to audition for a dance team Breaking down the circuits and divisions of dance teams for all ages Help support our podcast! Join Making The Impact's Platinum Premium Subscription today! Your membership includes: Monthly Q&A episodes released to members only Priority to have your questions answered each month on the live Q&A. Ad-free listening for all of Seasons 4 through 7. No sponsored ads! 20% off all IDA Merchandise Exclusive bonus content released throughout the year Discounted IDA Online Critique Group Zoom check-ins 3x per season with Courtney Ortiz! Your support helps us produce future episodes of Making The Impact for years to come! Making The Impact's Platinum Premium - Sign up now for only $5/month! Follow your Hosts & Guests! Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance Carsen Rowe - @tribe99official, @carsen.rowe Melissa McGhee - @mmcghee65 This episode is sponsored by: The DanceOne Summit The premier event for dance teachers and studio owners to unite. share. inspire! This summer in New York City - August 13-16th, 2026. Register now for $100 off using promo code: DOS26IMPACT Join our FREE Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you! Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! Follow Impact Dance Adjudicators on social media @impactdanceadjudicators and for a list of IDA Affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at www.impactdanceadjudicators.com Support the show
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S7 · E259
March 19 · 1 hr 7 min
What To Expect When Transitioning From Studio Dance to Dance Team
Send us Fan Mail Guests - Erin Alvarado and Kristin Daniel Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor In Episode 259 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, LSU Tiger Girls choreographer Kristin Daniel and Texas Tech dance team coach and dance faculty member Erin Alvarado school us on the similarities and differences between dancing at a studio and being a part of a dance team. Topics Include: How studio training can inform your college dance team experience The realities of college dance team training Tips for the audition process Help support our podcast! Join Making The Impact's Platinum Premium Subscription today! Your membership includes: Monthly Q&A episodes released to members only Priority to have your questions answered each month on the live Q&A. Ad-free listening for all of Seasons 4 through 7. No sponsored ads! 20% off all IDA Merchandise Exclusive bonus content released throughout the year Discounted IDA Online Critique Group Zoom check-ins 3x per season with Courtney Ortiz! Your support helps us produce future episodes of Making The Impact for years to come! Making The Impact's Platinum Premium - Sign up now for only $5/month! Follow your Hosts & Guests! Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance Erin Alvarado - @erinmalvarado Kristin Daniel - @KristinDaniel Check out some of the routines we mentioned in the episode! Oops!...I Did It Again - Kristin Daniel choreo, LSU Jazz Finals 2026 Are You That Somebody - Kristin Danciel choreo, LSU 2024 This episode is sponsored by: Check out our service: IDA Online Judge's Critiques Send us a video of your dance and an IDA Judge will critique your routine! You can request a genre-specific specialty judge or add on 10 minutes of additional feedback. 24-hour rush delivery available! Submit your video now! IDA-affiliated competition Uproar Dance Competition! Visit their website for more info on their 2026 season Join our FREE Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you! Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! Follow Impact Dance Adjudicators on social media @impactdanceadjudicators and for a list of IDA Affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at www.impactdanceadjudicators.com Support the show
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S7 · E258
March 12 · 1 hr 13 min
IDA Competition Spotlight - Elevation on Tour
Send us Fan Mail Guests: Brie Peña & Kristina Cross Hosted by Courtney Ortiz IDA affiliated-competition Elevation on Tour leads with integrity and innovation, but most of all, a heart for being of service to dancers, teachers, and families. Owners Brie Peña and Kristina Cross sit down today with Courtney to share more about what makes Elevation on Tour's competitions and conventions so special! Help support our podcast. Join Making The Impact's Platinum Premium Subscription today! Your membership includes: Monthly Q&A episodes released to members-only Priority to have your questions answered each month on the live Q&A. Ad-free listening for all of Season 4 & 5. No sponsored ads! 20% off all IDA Merchandise Exclusive bonus content released throughout the year Discounted IDA Online Critique Group Zoom check-ins 3x per season with Courtney Ortiz! Your support helps us produce future episodes of Making The Impact for years to come! Making The Impact's Platinum Premium - Sign up now for only $5/month! This episode is sponsored by: IDA Affiliated Competition - Elevation On Tour! View their upcoming 2026 Tour Dates on their website! Follow your Hosts & Guests! Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance Elevation on Tour - @elevationontour Join our NEW Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you! Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! Follow us on social media at @impactdanceadjudicators and for a list of IDA-affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at www.impactdanceadjudicators.com Support the show
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S7 · E257
March 5 · 1 hr 10 min
Keeping the Artistry in Competitive Dance - Creating Choreography That Stands Out
Send us Fan Mail Guests - Brittany Sprung and Giovanni Allen Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor In Episode 257 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, we're discussing how to keep artistry at the forefront of competitive dance choreography in an arena where it can sometimes feel like tricks have overtaken the stage. Topics Include: The creative process and tips for choreographers of all ages and levels What aspects of artistry the judges are looking for on stage How to help your students develop their own creative and artistic voice Help support our podcast! Join Making The Impact's Platinum Premium Subscription today! Your membership includes: Monthly Q&A episodes released to members only Priority to have your questions answered each month on the live Q&A. Ad-free listening for all of Seasons 4 through 7. No sponsored ads! 20% off all IDA Merchandise Exclusive bonus content released throughout the year Discounted IDA Online Critique Group Zoom check-ins 3x per season with Courtney Ortiz! Your support helps us produce future episodes of Making The Impact for years to come! Making The Impact's Platinum Premium - Sign up now for only $5/month! Follow your Hosts & Guests! Courtney Ortiz - @courtney.ortiz Lesley Mealor - @miss.lesley.dance Brittany Sprung - @bsprung514 Giovanni Allen - @Giovannicallen, @Groundworksdanceco This episode is sponsored by: The DanceOne Summit The premier event for dance teachers and studio owners to unite. share. inspire! This summer in New York City - August 13-16th, 2026 Register now for $100 off using promo code: DOS26IMPACT Check out IDA-affiliated event Uproar Dance Competition! Visit their website for more info on their 2026 season! Join our FREE Facebook Group and connect with us! Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast Community Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! We would love to hear from you! Join our Newsletter for weekly episode releases straight to your inbox! Follow Impact Dance Adjudicators on social media @impactdanceadjudicators and for a list of IDA Affiliated dance competitions, visit our website at www.impactdanceadjudicators.com Support the show
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