Side Kicks

Megan and Sean McElaney

Hosted by siblings working in different areas of dance, Sidekicks dives into the full journey—from early training and auditions to performance pressure, industry expectations, and life beyond the stage. Each episode brings honest conversations, personal experiences, and insider perspective on what it truly means to pursue dance at a high level.

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13 episodes
Updated Yesterday

Episodes13

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Yesterday · 21 min
The Fear of Starting Over | Episode 12
Starting over is exciting... but it's also terrifying. In this episode of Side Kicks, Megan opens up about the possibility of moving to New York City and what it really feels like to leave behind what's familiar in pursuit of a dream. We talk about the fear of reinventing yourself, stepping outside your comfort zone, and taking leaps of faith even when nothing feels certain. From wondering if you're making the right decision to embracing the unknown, we share our honest thoughts on chasing opportunities, finding confidence through change, and why some of the biggest risks can lead to the greatest growth. Whether you're thinking about moving, changing careers, or simply taking a chance on yourself, this conversation is for anyone who's ever been scared to start over. 🎧 New episodes every Thursday. Follow us! Instagram: @thesidekickspod TikTok: @thesidekickspod
July 30 · 32 min
A Family Affair! | Episode 11
Welcome to the Sidekicks Podcast, where siblings Sean and Megan bring a unique blend of humor, nostalgia, and family bonding to the airwaves. In this episode, they introduce their special guests: their parents! The sibling pair invite Jim and Teresa onto the mic as their first guest to share childhood chaos, dance career stories, and a few unforgettable family secrets. Tune in for laughs, heart, and lessons on resilience, support, and loving big. New episodes of Side Kicks are released every Thursday! 🎧 Follow us! Instagram: @thesidekickspod TikTok: @thesidekickspod #SidekicksPodcast #DancePodcast #ProfessionalDance #dcc #dallascowboyscheerleaders #EntertainmentIndustry #SiblingPodcast #cheerleader #cheerleading #funny #funnystories
July 23 · 30 min
Putting Dancers On Trial - Side Kicks Court | Episode 10
Ever wondered what counts as a dance crime? In this episode of Sidekicks, Megan and Sean put the biggest dance offenses on trial, from talking while the choreographer is teaching and showing up late to copying freestyles and skipping warm-ups. Megan and Sean, your favorite judgy sibling duo, are here to judge the funniest dance "crimes" happening in studios everywhere. From showing up late to side-line dancing and even disrespecting your instructors, nothing is safe in their sibling court. With ridiculous punishments, hilarious stories from the studio (and beyond), and plenty of sibling banter, they decide which dance habits deserve a warning... and which deserve straight-up dance jail. Whether you're a dancer, dance teacher, or just love a good laugh, you'll definitely recognize a few of these "crimes"—and you might even be guilty of one yourself. Court is now in session... what's your verdict? New episodes of Side Kicks are released every Thursday! 🎧 Follow us! Instagram: @thesidekickspod TikTok: @thesidekickspod #SidekicksPodcast #DancePodcast #ProfessionalDance #dcc #dallascowboyscheerleaders #EntertainmentIndustry #SiblingPodcast #cheerleader #cheerleading #funny #funnystories #court #trial #wigs #dancetrial
July 17 · 30 min
Can Dancers Ever Relax? | Episode 9
Can dancers ever truly take a vacation? In this episode, we're talking about the struggle of taking time off when dance is such a big part of your life. From feeling like we have to earn every meal or drink with a workout, to missing family vacations because of competitions, rehearsals, and performances, we're sharing the realities that come with growing up in the dance world. Plus, we're swapping some of our craziest travel stories, describing what our perfect vacations would look like, and laughing about the habits that dancers just can't seem to break when they're supposed to be relaxing. 💬 Let us know in the comments: What's the craziest travel story you've experienced? And what does your perfect vacation look like? New episodes of Side Kicks are released every Thursday! 🎧 Follow us! Instagram: @thesidekickspod TikTok: @thesidekickspod #SideKicksPodcast #DancePodcast #ProfessionalDance #DCC #DallasCowboysCheerleaders #EntertainmentIndustry #SiblingPodcast #DanceLife #TravelStories #Vacation #FunnyStories #Cheerleader #Cheerleading
July 9 · 38 min
Every Dancer Starts Somewhere... Our Dance Side Gig Stories | Episode 8
What’s the weirdest dance job you’ve ever had… or heard of? In this episode, we’re sharing some of our very first side gigs in the dance world, from teaching tiny dancers who say the most unfiltered things to doing unexpected jobs that came along the way. Plus, we're sharing some behind-the-scenes moments from our dance journeys, laughing about the unexpected challenges that come with side gigs, and ending the episode with a fun game of This or That: Dance Edition to see where we agree and where we definitely don't. 💬 Let us know in the comments: What's the funniest thing you've heard a kid say, or what's the weirdest job you've ever worked? 🎧 Follow us! Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok: @thesidekickspod #SidekicksPodcast #DancePodcast #ProfessionalDance #dcc #dallascowboyscheerleaders #EntertainmentIndustry #SiblingPodcast #EntertainmentIndustry #SiblingPodcast #cheerleader #cheerleading #sidejobs #funny #funnystories
July 3 · 34 min
Who Knows Their Sibling Better? Megan vs Sean | Episode 7
In this episode, Megan and Sean put their sibling relationship to the test to find out who really knows each other best. They compete through a series of games, answer questions about one another, and discover whether growing up together actually gives them an advantage, or just more reasons to argue. They also revisit some of their funniest childhood memories, share stories they've never publicly told before, and play a "Who's Most Likely To..." game that leads to plenty of laughs, friendly competition, and a few moments that completely expose each other. Whether you have siblings of your own, love hearing funny family stories, or just want a lighthearted episode full of laughs, this conversation is packed with nostalgia, sibling chaos, and moments that prove no one knows you quite like your brother or sister. New episodes every Thursday! Follow Sidekicks: Instagram: @thesidekickspod TikTok: @thesidekickspod #DancePodcast #ProfessionalDance #SidekicksPodcast #Siblings #humor #funny #siblingchallenge
June 26 · 38 min
America's Sweethearts Recap - Behind the Scenes with a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader | Episode 6
Season 3 of America's Sweethearts is finally here, and we're taking you behind the scenes of what it was really like. In this episode, Megan reflects on her experience as a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader following the release of the latest Netflix season. She shares what filming with Netflix was actually like, the moments viewers never got to see, how she balanced leadership and personal challenges throughout the season, and what it meant to finish her five-year journey with the organization. Sean also shares his perspective watching his sister's story unfold on a global stage, leading to an honest conversation about the realities of professional dance, the importance of teamwork, and the friendships that made the experience unforgettable. Whether you're a longtime Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders fan, just finished watching America's Sweethearts, or you're curious about what life is really like behind the uniform, this episode offers an authentic insider perspective beyond what made it to the screen. New episodes every Thursday! Follow Sidekicks: Instagram: @thesidekickspod TikTok: @thesidekickspod #AmericasSweethearts #DallasCowboysCheerleaders #DCC #Netflix #DancePodcast #ProfessionalDance #SidekicksPodcast
June 18 · 34 min
Behind The Boots - Megan's Dance Journey to DCC | Episode 5
In this episode of Side Kicks, Sean turns the tables and puts Megan in the hot seat for an honest conversation about her journey through the world of dance. From childhood dance classes and competitive dance to college dance team life, leadership, and five seasons as a Cowboys Cheerleader, Megan shares the experiences, challenges, and lessons that have shaped her both on and off the field. The conversation dives into some of Megan's favorite memories growing up, her experience as a dance major at San Diego State, the realities of collegiate dance team training, and what surprised her most when she joined DCC. She also opens up about navigating social media criticism, leadership, public perception, and the unique experience of having millions of people watch and form opinions about your life through a television show. With the release of Season 3, Megan also shares her perspective on reality television and what fans may not always see behind the scenes. Whether you're a dancer, performer, DCC fan, or simply interested in hearing the story behind a successful career in the entertainment industry, this episode offers a candid look at the journey, resilience, and determination required to perform at the highest level. New episodes of Side Kicks are released every Thursday. Follow Side Kicks: Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok: @thesidekickspod #SidekicksPodcast #DancePodcast #ProfessionalDance #dcc #dallascowboyscheerleaders #EntertainmentIndustry #SiblingPodcast #cheerleader #cheerleading #PodcastEpisode #BehindTheScenes
June 11 · 39 min
Sean Unfiltered - From Sibling Shenanigans to Center Stage | Episode 4
In this episode of Sidekicks, Megan sits down with Sean for a fun, unfiltered conversation all about his journey—from growing up as dance siblings to performing on some of the biggest stages in the industry. Sean shares what it was really like growing up with Megan, including their dance studio rivalries, sibling fights, and the hilarious memories that shaped their childhood. The conversation follows Sean's path through dance, from his early training and college years to auditioning for Disneyland, booking professional jobs, and eventually landing his dream role at Radio City. He reflects on how college helped him grow as a dancer and performer, shares some of his favorite memories from Radio City, and gives a behind-the-scenes look at the experiences that have defined his career so far. Filled with funny stories, sibling banter, embarrassing childhood memories, and plenty of laughs, this episode is all about getting to know the real Sean beyond the performances and headshots. From childhood chaos to center stage, Sean shares the moments that shaped his journey and the lessons he's learned along the way. Whether you've followed his career for years or you're meeting him for the first time, this episode offers a fun look at the person behind the performer. New episodes every Thursday! Follow Sidekicks: Instagram & TikTok: @thesidekickspod #SidekicksPodcast #DancePodcast #ProfessionalDance #RadioCity #DisneylandEntertainment #EntertainmentIndustry #SiblingPodcast #GetToKnowSean #DancerLife #PodcastEpisode #BehindTheScenes
June 4 · 42 min
Audition Stories, Fails, & Successes | Episode 3
In this episode of Sidekicks, Megan & Sean dive into the world of auditions—from college dance teams and professional opportunities to the unexpected moments that happen along the way. They share what the audition process was really like for some of their biggest career milestones, the lessons they learned, and the advice they wish they had known sooner. Along the way, they swap funny audition stories, discuss the nerves, excitement, and pressure that come with putting yourself out there, and react to audition fails submitted by listeners. Whether you're preparing for your next audition or just love a good behind-the-scenes story, this episode is packed with honest insights, laughs, and practical advice. This episode is a candid, lighthearted conversation about taking chances, handling rejection, trusting the process, and showing up as your best self when it matters most. New episodes every Thursday! Follow Sidekicks: Instagram & TikTok: @thesidekickspod #DancePodcast #ProfessionalDance #EntertainmentIndustry #DallasCowboysCheerleaders #Rockettes #Auditions #DanceAuditions #Podcast
May 28 · 32 min
Broke, Busy, & Booking Jobs | Episode 2
In this episode of Sidekicks, Megan & Sean get real about the less glamorous side of pursuing a career in dance and entertainment. From side jobs and financial stress to injuries, they share the realities that often happen behind the scenes of dream jobs. Sean talks about his time delivering for Uber Eats, Megan opens up about dancing on a broken leg, and together they discuss the sacrifices, setbacks, and funny moments that came along the way. Even through the chaos, they reflect on why they kept going and what made it all worth it. This episode is an honest, lighthearted conversation about resilience, hustle, and the reality of building a career in the arts. New episodes every Thursday! Follow Sidekicks: Instagram & TikTok: @thesidekickspod #DancePodcast #ProfessionalDance #EntertainmentIndustry #DallasCowboysCheerleaders #Rockettes #SideHustle #Podcast
May 21 · 43 min
"I Can't, I Have Dance" | Episode 1
In this episode of Sidekicks, Megan & Sean dive into the story of how dance became more than just a hobby — and the moment they realized they wanted to pursue it professionally. From their early beginnings in the studio to the challenges, sacrifices, injuries, and breakthrough moments that shaped their journeys, they share the reality behind building careers in the entertainment industry. They also talk about competition dance, memorable milestones, and the experiences that pushed them to keep going. Whether you’re a dancer, performer, athlete, or someone chasing a dream of your own, this episode is all about passion, perseverance, and finding your path. New episodes every Thursday! Follow Sidekicks: Instagram & TikTok: @thesidekickspod #DancePodcast #ProfessionalDance #DallasCowboysCheerleaders #Rockettes #EntertainmentIndustry #Podcast
May 15 · 19 min
Welcome to Side Kicks - Intro Episode
Welcome to the very first episode of Side Kicks! In this episode, siblings Megan & Sean introduce the podcast and share the story behind how they each found their way into two unique worlds of professional dance and entertainment. From growing up together to pursuing careers with the Rockettes and the Cowboys cheerleaders, they talk about their upbringing, dance backgrounds, career journeys, sibling dynamic, and what inspired them to start the show. They also share what listeners can expect from future episodes — including behind-the-scenes stories from the professional dance industry, entertainment experiences, guest interviews, career insights, personal challenges, and plenty of fun conversations along the way. New episodes every Thursday. Follow the show: Instagram, TikTok, & YouTube: @thesidekickspod