Denise shares her journey from a curious 16-year-old walking into a salsa class for the first time, to building one of the most inclusive dance communities in Windsor. Guided by a mentor who shaped her values and vision, Denise turned dance into more than just movement—it became a safe haven for self-expression, connection, and healing. She opens up about building her studio from scratch after moving cities and becoming a mother, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the power of teaching beginners to believe in themselves. With honesty and grace, Denise reminds us that dance isn’t just about steps—it’s about creating belonging.
It's Open House week at Art of Dance! Aug 25-28.
Attend select classes for free: www.artofdance.ca
https://www.instagram.com/artofdancewindsor
TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 – How Denise Found Dance at 16
05:30 – Creating a Legacy Like Her Coach
10:00 – Motherhood & Performing Again
14:30 – Entrepreneurship, Rest, and the Hustle Culture Trap
18:00 – Advocating for Beginner Dancers
20:00 – Body Movement vs. Styling – A Class That Heals
Denise Art of Dance Windsor
how to start a dance studio
inclusive dance community
beginner dance journey
mentorship in dance
emotional healing through movement
salsa and bachata teacher story
creating safe spaces for dancers
dance as therapy
Tina’s Arena podcast episodes
#DanceJourney
#WomenInDance
#Latindance
#TinasArenaPodcast
#SalsaStory
#BodyMovement
#DanceHealing
#InclusiveDance
#CommunityOverCompetition
#FlowState
Also! Are you interested in coming to Tales of the Town? It's the last Saturday of every month! Purchase tickets here: www.talesofthetown.ca