Podcast · Arts & Books

Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast

by Impact Dance Adjudicators · English · Arts & Books

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 Makin

New episodes: Weekly
Typical length: 1 hr 8 min
Latest: 8 Oct 2026
Language: English

Latest episode

8 Oct 2026 · 1 hr 7 min

Throwback! S6 Ep 203 - How To Stand Out at Auditions

Send us Fan Mail Guest - DJ Smart Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor Today's throwback episode brings us back to Season 6, with guest DJ Smart, where we talked about what it takes to stand out at auditions. Good audition advice never gets old, so this conversation is worth a re-listen as dancers head into convention season as well as college auditions. This episode originally aired November 28, 2024. Topics Include: Why first impressions really do countThings NOT to do at audit...

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Earlier episodes 29 most recent

S8 · E274 · 1 Oct 2026 · 1 hr 8 min
A Crash Course on College Dance Program Auditions
Send us Fan Mail Guests - Lauren Gaul and Ashley Thorndike Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor In Episode 274 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, we're diving into the topic of dance in college, with two experts in the field. Lauren Gaul is the co-founder of the commercial dance program at Pace University in New York City, and Ashley Thorndike is the owner of Dance and College Counseling, a service dedicated to helping high school dancers navigate the college applic...
S8 · E273 · 24 Sep 2026 · 1 hr 1 min
Throwback! S2 Ep 45 - A Look At Competitive Dance Through the Years
Send us Fan Mail Guests - Clarice Ordaz and Amber Nadelkov Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor We are bringing back our Throwback episodes in Season 8 of Making the Impact, and today we're heading to 2021 to discuss what the competitive dance scene was like in the decades before! Enjoy this look back into the past with guests Clarice Ordaz and Amber Nadelkov. This episode originally aired on January 7, 2021. Topics Include: The days before levels, age groups, and platinum...
S8 · E272 · 17 Sep 2026 · 1 hr 11 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 atmosphe...
S8 · E271 · 10 Sep 2026 · 1 hr 1 min
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 ...
S8 · E270 · 7 Sep 2026 · 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 @Staceysstudioofdan...
S8 · 3 Sep 2026 · 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 Subscriptio...
S7 · 2 Aug 2026 · 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. Than...
2 Jul 2026 · 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 pret...
S7 · E270 · 28 May 2026 · 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 Se...
S7 · E269 · 28 May 2026 · 1 hr 10 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 pret...
S7 · E268 · 21 May 2026 · 1 hr 35 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 air...
S7 · E267 · 14 May 2026 · 1 hr 20 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 ol...
S7 · E266 · 7 May 2026 · 51 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 judg...
S7 · E265 · 30 Apr 2026 · 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 ...
S7 · E264 · 23 Apr 2026 · 57 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 Pendlet...
S7 · E263 · 16 Apr 2026 · 1 hr 4 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...
S7 · E262 · 9 Apr 2026 · 1 hr 1 min
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...
S7 · E261 · 2 Apr 2026 · 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! ...
S7 · E260 · 26 Mar 2026 · 1 hr 6 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 i...
S7 · E259 · 19 Mar 2026 · 1 hr 8 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&nbs...
S7 · E258 · 12 Mar 2026 · 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! Yo...
S7 · E257 · 5 Mar 2026 · 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...
S7 · E256 · 26 Feb 2026 · 1 hr 28 min
Throwback! - S5 EP 176 – Mini Dancers Who Peak Too Early
Send us Fan Mail Guests - Kate Biernat and Krysten Danielle Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor Our next throwback episode of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast takes us back in time to 2024 for a conversation about the mini dancers who peak too early. Judges and educators Kate Biernat and Krysten Danielle share their experiences with the tiniest talented dancers in a chat that still holds relevance today, as dancers continue training at increasingly higher levels and ...
S7 · E255 · 19 Feb 2026 · 1 hr 21 min
The Transition From Junior to Teen - Pivotal Times in a Dancer's Training
Send us Fan Mail Guests - Carlos de Barros and Krystal Madan Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor In Episode 255 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, IDA judges and dance educators Carlos de Barros and Krystal Madan join us for a discussion about the junior and teen divisions. Without the right support and guidance, the transition from junior to teen can be challenging. Today, we chat about the best ways to guide young dancers through this journey! Topics Include: ...
S7 · E254 · 12 Feb 2026 · 1 hr 17 min
Throwback! S4 EP 111 - Adding the Shock Value - A Discussion on Triggering and Sensitive Themes
Send us Fan Mail Guests - Amanda Nicole DiTullio and Daniel Longo Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor Our next throwback episode takes us back to Season 4 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, with one of our most popular episodes about triggering and sensitive topics on stage. Judges Amanda Nicole DiTullio and Daniel Longo share their insights from behind the table in this important conversation. This episode originally aired on September 15, 2022. *Trigger Warning ...
S7 · E253 · 5 Feb 2026 · 1 hr 15 min
What Dance Competition Judges Want To See On Stage This Season
Send us Fan Mail Guests - IDA Judges Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor In Episode 253 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, IDA judges from across the country chime in to give listeners the inside scoop on what they want to see at competition this season - from choreography to costumes and everything in between! Topics Include: Transitions, transitions, transitions! Why musicality can make or break your score Teamwork on and off stage - judges see...
S7 · E252 · 29 Jan 2026 · 1 hr 7 min
Spotlight Feature - International Competitive Dancer Registry
Send us Fan Mail Guests: Jamie Hodgins and Rebecca Brettingham-Filice Hosted by: Courtney Ortiz & Lesley Mealor The International Competitive Dancer Registry, or ICDR, is a new organization that aims to protect, verify, and safeguard competitive dancers' personal information. Today on Making the Impact, we are joined by Executive Director of the ICDR, Jamie Hodgins, and studio owner and advisor Rebecca Brettingham-Filice to learn more about what the ICDR stands for and how dancers, stu...
S7 · E251 · 22 Jan 2026 · 1 hr 9 min
Partnering and Lifts - Tips and Tricks from the Pros
Send us Fan Mail Guests - Jonathan & Oksana Platero Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor In Episode 251 of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast, professional dancers and educators Jonathan and Oksana Platero share their extensive experience with partnering and lifts. From stints on So You Think You Can Dance, Dancing With The Stars, and Strictly Come Dancing, as well as years of teaching on the convention circuit, these two bring both performer and educator perspectiv...
S7 · E250 · 15 Jan 2026 · 1 hr 9 min
Throwback! S4 EP 120 - Stage and Costume Malfunctions - What To Do During Onstage Mishaps
Send us Fan Mail Guests - Halle Mastroberardino and Donna Michelle Vaughn Hosted By - Courtney Ortiz and Lesley Mealor Our throwback episode of Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast covers the many ways things can go wrong at a live dance performance, from costume malfunctions to dropped props and more! Joining us for this discussion are professional dancers and IDA judges Halle Mastroberardino and Donna Michelle Vaughn to give you some tips and tricks to salvage any mishaps tha...

About Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast

Making The Impact - A Dance Competition Podcast is a English arts & books podcast from Impact Dance Adjudicators. Melo plays each episode straight from the publisher's own feed — no ads added, no account needed — and remembers where you stopped, in this browser only.

Publisher: Impact Dance Adjudicators
Language: English
Category: Arts & Books
New episodes: Weekly
Typical length: 1 hr 8 min
Latest episode: 8 Oct 2026
Feed: RSS — paste into any podcast app
Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1482584144

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