How to Set Real Dance Goals for 2026 (Not Just Wishful Thinking) As dancers, it’s easy to say “I hope I get better” or “I want to improve this year” — but hope is not a strategy. In this episode of Dance Colleges & Careers, Brittany Noltimier breaks down what it actually takes to set real, achievable dance goals and why so many dancers stay stuck despite working hard. We talk about the difference between wishes and goals, how to identify what’s really holding you back, and why lifestyle a...

Do you ever catch yourself waiting until everything is “just right” before you begin? The perfect studio, the perfect costume, the perfect moment? Perfectionism feels safe — but it’s actually what keeps dancers stuck. In this episode, Brittany shares her obsession with cleaning and reorganizing her office, and how it mirrors the way dancers procrastinate on facials, confidence, and performance. You’ll learn why perfection is a moving target, why progress only comes from action, and how confid...

If you're in high school and still unsure what you want to do after graduation, you’re not behind — you’re just standing at the starting line. In this episode, Brittany breaks down the fear of making “the wrong choice” and explains why taking any step forward is better than staying stuck. From her own story growing up in small-town North Dakota to working in New York and Orlando, Brittany shares how each decision — even the messy or unexpected ones — opened new doors. She’ll talk about: Why s...

In this episode of Dance Colleges and Careers, Brittany breaks down one of the most common — and unnoticed — habits holding dancers back: the “focus face.” You know the one — the “uhhh” face, the blank stare, the tight jaw. She shares why this expression (or lack thereof) sends the wrong message to your teachers, judges, and even future employers, and how to replace it with energy, intention, and purpose. From classroom body language to audition etiquette, Brittany shows how your face can ope...

Have you ever thought you were performing one way, only to watch the video back — or get judge feedback — that told a completely different story? That gap is your blind spot. In this episode, Brittany shares her own vulnerable story of being called “spastic” by a judge and how that critique changed her dancing forever. She unpacks how blind spots keep dancers stuck, why feedback can feel uncomfortable but is essential, and how coaching closes the gap between what you intend to show and what t...

Thinking of switching studios? Before you make the leap, listen to this. In this episode, Brittany Noltimier unpacks why the “grass is greener” mindset holds dancers back, and what to do instead. You’ll hear why moving studios doesn’t automatically solve performance problems — and how to create growth opportunities right where you are. 🎁 Grab the free bonus for this episode at www.brittanynoltimier.com/78 And remember — dancers grow faster with guidance. The grass isn’t greener somewhere el...

What does making chili have to do with stage presence? Everything. In this episode, I share a vulnerable story about my discomfort in the kitchen — and how it perfectly mirrors the awkwardness dancers feel when told to “use their face.” You’ll learn why rules alone aren’t enough, why practice matters more than perfection, and how confidence is built through repetition. 🎁 Free Bonus: Get your copy at www.brittanynoltimier.com/77 And remember — you don’t have to figure this out alone. The faste...

Do you ever feel like everyone around you picks up choreography faster than you? It’s frustrating, embarrassing, and can leave you spiraling with self-doubt. I know, because I’ve been there. In today’s episode of Dance Colleges and Careers, we’re diving into how to pick up choreography faster—and it’s not about talent, it’s about strategy. From food and hydration, to self-talk, to finding patterns in the music, I’ll walk you through the practical tools that help dancers of any age learn chore...

Stage presence is not a talent you’re born with—it’s a skill you can train. In this episode of Dance Colleges and Careers, Brittany Noltimier unpacks the myths surrounding stage presence and shows you how to build it with confidence, practice, and strategy. From being bullied for trying facial expressions, to performing six shows a day at Frontier City, to applying stage presence at the ballet barre in college, Brittany shares her personal journey and practical takeaways that you (or your dan...

Is your dancer convinced they need more classes—more ballet, more privates, more conventions—to succeed? The truth is, more hours don’t always equal better results. In this episode of Dance Colleges and Careers, Brittany Noltimier breaks down why quality trumps quantity every single time. You’ll learn: Why “just add another class” isn’t the solution (and can even hold dancers back).How mindset and focus in class separate great dancers from the rest.Simple shifts you can make today to get more...

Your child comes home crying after class—and as a parent, your first instinct is to fix it. But here’s the truth: the way you approach the situation can either support your child’s growth… or hold them back. In this episode of Dance Colleges and Careers, Brittany Noltimier (studio owner, professional dancer, competition judge, and lifelong “studio kid”) shares how parents can navigate tough moments like casting disappointment, favoritism concerns, and front-row frustrations. We’ll cover: Why ...

Should your child have a dance Instagram account? Parents often wonder if it’s the “right” move to help their dancer gain exposure, connect with opportunities, or simply share their journey with friends and family. In this episode, I break down the pros and cons of creating a social media page for your child, including brand exposure, family connection, and safety concerns. We’ll also talk about what to do if your child is too young to manage an account responsibly, how to set clear boundarie...

In this empowering episode of Dance Colleges and Careers, host Brittany Noltimier reminds dancers, parents, and performers that what we see online is a filtered version of reality. From TikTok trends to viral pirouettes, we're often bombarded with “perfect” content that leaves us doubting our own progress. But real growth happens in the rehearsal room—where struggles, stumbles, and perseverance lead to powerful breakthroughs. Brittany shares a heart-to-heart reminder about the value of imperf...

Your next job interview doesn’t have to be a nerve-wracking mess. Whether you're auditioning for a role or applying for a 9–5, the prep strategies are the same — and performers might even have an edge. In this episode, Brittany shares 5 powerful interview tips straight from the stage that will help you show up confident, prepared, and unforgettable. Learn how to exude confidence, dress with intention, and actually connect — not just perform. 🎧 Want the free worksheet and action steps? V...

Think your flawless technique is enough? Think again. In this episode, Brittany breaks down the 75% Rule — the hard truth behind why technically perfect dancers still fall short on score sheets. If you’re ignoring your facial expressions and stage presence, you’re starting at a disadvantage. Learn how competitive dance scores really work, why facials matter just as much as turns, and what you can do to improve. Plus, grab the free self-coaching worksheet and see exactly where you stand....

What you think is helping… might be what’s holding you back. Clean technique? Check. Power tricks? Check. But still not placing? You might be making one of these 3 super common—but wildly misunderstood—competition mistakes. In this episode, Brittany breaks down the real reasons dancers get stuck, why “more classes” isn’t the answer, and what to do if you want judges to actually remember your solo. 🎯 Topics include: Why over-cleaning might be holding you backThe difference between power and pu...

Smarter training, better attitude, and what top dancers actually do in rehearsal Think more classes are the key to success? Not quite. In this episode, I share what I saw at Nationals this year — including one dancer who went full-out during a marked run… and ended up winning the overall. Let’s talk about how to take class with intention, energy, and purpose so you actually get the results you want. 🎓 Registration opens soon for the Fame Academy — a training experience bui...

What’s your mindset going into nationals? In this episode of Dance Colleges and Careers, I break down the difference between regionals and nationals — and how YOU (and your whole family!) can get the most out of the trip. From being brave enough to take a masterclass solo to finding your people in the Top Stars program, we’ll talk about what really matters. Spoiler: it’s not just your scores. If you’re heading to nationals, you don’t want to miss this reminder to think BIGGER, connect with yo...

This week’s episode is a reminder that you don’t have to do it all — you just need to do you really well. I’m coming to you from a pageant venue in Orlando, where I’ve seen firsthand how dancers, singers, and performers thrive when they understand their strengths — and stop trying to copy everyone else. Whether it’s tights, tricks, turns, or two-piece costumes, we talk about what it really means to make a smart first impression on stage. We also dive into: How to use choreography, outfits, an...

Too often, dancers obsess over tricks and forget about the magic that truly makes them unforgettable. In this episode, I share the difference between “quick tricks” and “real feels” — and why emotional connection, storytelling, and soul-driven performance will always outlast flashy moments. Whether you’re a student, a parent, or a studio owner, this is your reminder that the greatest performances are about impact — not just aerials and turns. 🎧 Tune in and ask yourself: What do you want to be...