In this episode of ZoukNerds, hosts Alisson Sandi and Gui Prada delve into the intricate interplay between technique and emotional expression in dance. They share personal experiences and insights, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing pleasure and connection in learning movement. Drawing from events in Singapore and Bali, they discuss a method that values enjoyment first, which then naturally leads to a greater desire to learn structured techniques. The conversation explores...

Overcoming Intermediate Plateaus and Achieving True Proficiency In this engaging episode of ZoukNerds, hosts Alisson Sandi and Gui Prada explore the 'Intermediate Purgatory' that many dancers encounter. They provide valuable insights and actionable tips for advancing from intermediate to advanced levels. Discussions emphasize the importance of mastering fundamentals, maintaining a proactive learning attitude, and balancing safety with growth in class settings. The episode covers the...

In this episode of ZoukNerds, hosts Alisson Sandi and Gui Prada delve into the challenges dancers face with FOMO (fear of missing out), pressure, and staying grounded in the fast-paced arts community. They discuss personal anecdotes, including Gui's experience at a retreat in Bali and observations of students' growth after breaks from intense learning. The conversation touches on managing societal expectations in dance, the importance of pacing personal improvement, and the value of...

In this episode of Zouk Nerds, hosts Alisson Sandi and Gui Prada discuss the challenges of maintaining physical and mental health while pursuing dance as a hobby or profession. They share personal experiences and insights on pacing, injury prevention, and setting boundaries to ensure longevity in dance. The conversation covers the psychological and physical pressures faced by artists and students, strategies for effective time management, and the importance of rest and recovery. The...

In this episode of ZoukNerds, Alisson Sandi and co-host Gui Prada explore the evolution of teaching methods and techniques in the context of Brazilian Zouk. They discuss how their approaches have changed over the years, emphasizing the importance of patience, pacing, and focusing on foundational skills. Reflecting on their experiences at District Zouk in Washington, DC, and during travels, they highlight the impact of adapting curricula and incorporating continuous review. Through...

In this episode of ZoukNerds, Alisson Sandi and Gui Prada discuss the importance of recognizing and aligning your internal and external expectations in your dance journey. The conversation dives into a recent story shared by Gui, highlighting the challenges and reflections around students’ learning experiences and the expectations they may bring to a dance class versus what they truly need. It emphasizes the role of teachers in guiding students and the significance of being present, open,...

In this episode of ZoukNerds, hosts Alisson Sandi, Gui Prada, and Adayl Iost explore the concept of dance addiction. They discuss how it manifests among students, professionals, and organizers and offer insights from their personal experiences. The episode delves into the physical, mental, and financial impacts of dance addiction, addresses the dangers of overcommitment, and provides practical tips for maintaining a healthy and sustainable relationship with dance. Emphasis is placed on...

In this episode of ZoukNerds, hosts Alisson Sandi, Gui Prada, and Adayl Iost discuss their personal journeys to becoming full-time dance teachers. They share insights into the struggles and benefits of this career path, including their initial transitions from other professions, managing multiple income streams, and organizing finances effectively. The hosts emphasize the importance of passion, continuous innovation, and seeking mentorship in building a sustainable dance career. They also...

In this episode of ZoukNerds, hosts Alisson Sandi, Gui Prada, and Adayl Iost delve into a detailed comparison of different event types within the dance community—educational events, holiday events, and dance marathons. They discuss the unique features, benefits, and experiences each event type offers, sharing their personal insights and preferences. The conversation also touches upon the importance of matching event choices to individual needs and energy levels, encouraging listeners to...

In this episode of ZoukNerds, hosts Alisson Sandi, Gui Prada, and Adayl Iost dive into the differences between various dance events such as festivals, weekenders, and retreats. They explore the benefits and challenges of each type, share personal experiences, and provide recommendations for dancers at different stages of their journey. The discussion includes insights on large expo events, the immersive nature of weekenders, and the multifaceted experiences found in retreats. The...

In this episode of ZoukNerds, host Alisson Sandi, along with co-hosts Gui Prada and Adail Iost, delve into the nuances of social dancing versus Jack and Jill competitions in the Brazilian Zouk community. They explore the differences observed in social dance floors and Jack and Jill events, discussing whether practice for competitions during social dances is beneficial or detrimental. The conversation touches upon the pressures of Jack and Jill competitions, the importance of mindset in...

In the Season 5 premiere of ZoukNerds, hosts Alisson Sandi, Gui Prada, and Adayl Iost delve into the sources of inspiration for social dancers, specifically comparing what is learned in class versus what is seen in demos or on social media. They discuss the impact of different types of demos and the importance of balancing inspiration, creativity, and social dancing standards within the Brazilian Zouk community. They emphasize the need for maintaining a healthy and enjoyable social dance...

In this episode, the hosts of ZoukNerds conclude their season four recap by delving into the significant topic of 'bolsistas' in Brazilian dance, discussing its past and present relevance. Alisson Sandi, Gui Prada, and Adayl Iost explore the merits and challenges of the scholarship system, specifically its application in current dance schools. They also dive deep into different teaching methodologies, comparing structured curriculums with more open and adaptable approaches. The discussion...

In this episode of ZoukNerds, Alisson Sandi and his co-hosts recap Season 4, discussing key interviews and topics, focusing on the differences between being a local and traveling teacher. Joined by Gui Prada in São Paulo and Adayl Iost in Portland, they delve into issues like local teacher recognition, cultural influences on teaching, the importance of local dance communities, and challenges faced by local instructors. The episode highlights guest insights from Pedro, Ana, and other dance...

In this engaging episode of ZoukNerds, host Alisson Sandi together with co-hosts Gui Prada and Adayl Iost continues the conversation with renowned Brazilian Zouk dancers Pedro and Ana from Rio de Janeiro who now reside in Toronto. The discussion delves into balancing professional partnerships, social dancing, and personal life challenges, including being far from family and their journey within the dance community. Guests Pedro and Ana share their inspirational stories about mentorship,...

In this episode of ZoukNerds, hosts Alisson Sandi, Gui Prada, and Adayl Iost interview Pedro and Ana, talented dancers from Rio de Janeiro now residing in Toronto, Canada. They discuss the challenges and joys of building a successful dance partnership, their journey from starting in Brazilian Zouk to becoming established teachers, and their transition to life in Canada. They also share insights on the importance of local dance communities, the influence of their mentors, and their...

In this episode of ZoukNerds, hosts Alisson Sandi, Gui Prada, and Adayl Iost continue their interview with Leandro and Nayara. They delve into the unique, inclusive teaching methodology developed by Leandro and Nayara, exploring how it caters to students of different skill levels and interests. The discussion includes how this approach was adapted post-pandemic and its implementation in their travels and workshops. The episode also covers insights into Jack & Jill competitions,...

In this episode of ZoukNerds, host Alisson Sandi, along with co-hosts Gui Prada and Adayl Iost, delve into the significance of location on success in the Zouk dance world. Featuring special guests Leandro and Nayara, the podcast explores their journey in Brazilian Zouk, their teaching methodologies, and how staying in São Paulo influenced their careers. Leandro and Nayara share personal stories about their early dance experiences, the competitive atmosphere of São Paulo, and their...

In this episode of ZoukNerds, hosts Alisson Sandi and Gui Prada engage in an in-depth conversation with Fernando and Olga, renowned for their 'Zouk Atoms' methodology, about their experiences and insights on becoming prominent figures in the international Zouk dance community. They discuss the need for dance instructors to create an engaging, human-focused learning environment that prioritizes social connections and fun in dance education. Fernando and Olga highlight their approach to...

In this episode of ZoukNerds, hosts Alisson Sandi and Gui Prada engage with guests Fernando and Olga to explore their unique Zouk teaching methodology known as 'Zouk Atoms.' The conversation delves into Fernando and Olga's journey from local teachers in Bremen, Germany, to international instructors. They discuss the importance of being authentic, connecting with students on a human level, and the significance of local teaching for developing a deep understanding of dance and teaching...

In this engaging episode of ZoukNerds, hosts Alisson Sandi, Gui Prada, and Adayl Iost delve into the second part of a heartfelt conversation with Pedro and Cibele, a dance duo from São José dos Campos, SP - Brazil. The pair shares their inspirational journey from dreaming of dance in their youth to becoming renowned professionals on the international stage. They discuss the power of persistence, positive mindset, and kindness in achieving success in the dance industry. The conversation...

This episode of ZoukNerds features hosts Alisson Sandi, Gui Prada, Adayl Iost, and special guests Pedro and Cibele. They discuss the journey from being students to becoming professional dancers and instructors in Brazilian Zouk and Lambada, exploring the steps and mindset necessary to succeed in the dance world. They emphasize the importance of hard work, believing in oneself, and being kind and accessible as instructors. The discussion also highlights the value of therapy in coping...

In this episode, your host Alisson Sandi together with Freddy & Andressa deep dive into a rich discussion about the balance between aesthetic and functional movement in dancing. They explore the importance of aesthetics in attracting newcomers to the dance and emphasize why maintaining functional movements ensures sustainable and safe dance practices. The session also touches on cultural influences and how these aspects shape the dance style. Other topics include the importance of...