How does one take music, rapping, writing, performing and turn that into a career? On our show today is recording artist Derek Demkowicz, aka Demko, and Michael Reiber, head of marketing for Headlights Hip Hop and Derek’s buddy from high school.  We discuss how they started in music, the value of comedy improv training, and the benefits of controlling your own destiny.  Derek and Michael also talk about their hip hop concert they are putting on in Detroit on May 18, 2024.For Demko's Spotify page, go to: https://open.spotify.com/artist/36bOXFMGTOcg3fNGsqVZhi?si=4_X9uuIAShijrEfyKpFHgQFor Demko's Apple Music page, go to https://music.apple.com/us/artist/demko/1557597311Demko's IG: @demkomusicFor more resources on performing arts medicine, go to www.athletesandthearts.comBios:Derek Brian Demkowicz, AKA Demko, is an LA-based rapper, producer, and sound engineer with Detroit and Chicago roots. As an independent artist he has gained over 250k streams worldwide, released songs with Grammy-nominated artists, and connected with fans in 150+ countries. Notable collaborations include: Royce Da 5’9”, Mick Jenkins, GAWNE, and Futuristic. Stream Demko wherever you listen to music.Michael Reiber has years of music industry experience out of New Orleans, Detroit, New York, and currently Nashville. His passion for human connection through music and creative brand storytelling has been the focus of his work since the beginnings of his career at Loyola University New Orleans, where he started his first marketing company in 2016. Today, Michael is the Head of Marketing for Headlights Hip-Hop, a rap start-up headquartered in Detroit, and manages Demko, his lifelong friend that he met through music in high school at U of D Jesuit.

Classical music is pervasive and ubiquitous and yet for many people, it is difficult to connect with. We met one classical pianist who makes it her mission to connect with audiences and bring her joy of classical music to the masses. She is the extraordinary Jeeyoon Kim. a multi-hyphenate musician-author-blogger-podcaster-educator-and-performer. Our Athletes and the Arts founder Randy Dick caught up with Jeeyoon recently and he’s here with her on our show today.For more on Jeeyoon, go to https://www.jeeyoonkim.comInstagram @jeeyoonkimpianistX: @jeeyoon_pianistFor Athletes and the Arts, go to www.athletesandthearts.comBio:  Award-winning classical pianist Jeeyoon Kim has delighted audiences across the United States and the world with her combination of sensitive artistry, ‘consummate musicianship, impeccable technique, and engaging and innovative concert experiences.’ (New York Classical Review)​From the start of her career, beginning with her celebrated 2016 debut album, 10 More Minutes, Jeeyoon has thrilled classical music fans with her artful performances. Through her unique performance presentations, Jeeyoon has connected with concert attendees decidedly younger than the average by engaging in musical conversations from the stage. Her second album and concert project, Over. Above. Beyond., further stretched the mold for classical piano performances by collaborating with New York-based artist Moonsub Shin. Jeeyoon's collaboration with the artist delivered a multimedia experience that was also captured in an award-winning music video. Kim’s following project titled, 시음/si-úm/, began during her 2020 residency at the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity for their 'Concert in the 21st Century' program. This concert project incorporates poetry and black and white photography. Jeeyoon's dedication to pushing the boundaries of traditional classical music to connect with a new audience has inspired a dedicated and passionate fanbase that defies conventional wisdom.Jeeyoon began studying the piano when she was just four years old, and her love of music propelled her through her undergraduate studies in piano performance in her native Korea. After moving to the United States, she received her Master of Music and Doctor of Musical Arts in Piano Performance with Distinction from Indiana University’s renowned Jacobs School of Music.In pursuit of a deeper understanding of music education, she earned a second master's degree in piano pedagogy from Butler University, where she concurrently served as a faculty member. As a testament to Jeeyoon’s abilities as an educator, she was recognized with the 'Top Music Teacher Award' from Steinway & Sons for three consecutive years, from 2016 to 2018.Jeeyoon is an author, educator, public speaker, podcaster, and award-winning performer. In 2021, she published her first book, Whenever You’re Ready, offering readers a personal glimpse into her life. This self-help book in a concert-style structure shares wisdom and insights gained from Jeeyoon's musical experiences. After a successful reception throughout North America and Europe, the book was published in South Korea in 2022. The book, translated into Korean by the author herself, has made it to the top 3 best sellers in South Korea in the self-help category. Jeeyoon Kim currently resides in San Diego. Between a busy concert touring schedule, she happily practices her piano daily, maintains a studio full of dedicated piano students, and surfs each morning at sunrise.

Yasi and Steven welcome prolific researcher and NEAMA Vice-President Dr. Tomi-Ann Roberts PhD to discuss her work on objectification and sexualization in dance.  We also examine the negative effects of social media on one's mental health and how a simple three-day cleanse off of social media had surprising and powerful results. Our conversation delves into college NIL (name, image, and license) money and how this all connects with male athletes as well.  For more about "ways of Seeing" by John Berger, go to https://www.ways-of-seeing.comFor more on Dr. Roberts and her work, go to https://www.tomi-annroberts.comFor more info on Athletes and the Arts, go to https://www.athletesandthearts.comBio: Dr. Roberts has been covered in many media sources including the New York Times about how her experience of being sexually harassed by Harvey Weinstein while a college student motivated her work on sexual objectification, contributing her scholarly voice to the #MeToo movement. In addition to her scholarly publications and teaching, she served on the American Psychological Association’s Task Force on the Sexualization of Girls, the Task Force on Educating Through Feminist Research, and as President of the Society for Menstrual Cycle Research from 2017-2019. She leverages feminist psychological science as a consultant for reproductive health related product brands, and as an expert witness in legal cases involving objectification and sexualization as forms of gender discrimination.

Our esteemed guest is Jack Noseworthy, long-time veteran on Broadway, TV, and film, to talk about his career and his process as an actor. He also is a Individual Giving Officer for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. Since 1988 they have led the fight against AIDS, becoming the nation’s leading industry-based nonprofit AIDS fundraising and grant-making organizations. They have raised over $300 million dollars to fight AIDS, as well as COVID-19 and other illnesses.Noseworthy also formed Truworthy Productions with his husband, Tony-award winning choreographer Sergio Trujillo, and they are producing a stage production of the 2002 hit film "Real Women Have Curves". The show opened December 2023 at the American Repertory Theater in Cambridge Massachusetts, and they aim to open on Broadway within the near future.For more about Broadway Cares and how to donate, go to https://broadwaycares.orgFor more about Jack's production company and their shows, go to http://www.truworthy.comInstagram @jack_noseworthyFor more info on Athletes and the Arts, go to https://athletesandthearts.comBio: Jack Noseworthy is the co-founder of Truworthy Productions along with Tony and Olivier Award-winning Director/Choreographer Sergio Trujillo. In their Truworthy venture, Jack is passionate about bringing authentic, diverse, and socially conscious works of theater, film, and television to life. He is an acclaimed producer and dynamic, experienced fundraiser on the Major Gifts team at Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, where he successfully collaborates with colleagues, helping to grow and steward relationships for their annual giving society, the Angels, and Visionary Circle, responsible for raising $4M of the foundation’s annual budget. In addition, Jack manages the Broadway Cares NextGen Network—creating giving opportunities for young professionals with a passion for giving back to the community. In partnership with seven-time Tony winning legendary producers Fran & Barry Weissler, Jack is the lead producer on Lisa Loomer’s new musical Real Women Have Curves, with music and lyrics by seven-time Grammy award winning artist Joy Huerta (Jesse & Joy) and her partner Fred Ebb/ Jonathan Larson recipient Benjamin Velez. Real Women Have Curves – The Musical will premiere at The American Repertory Theater (A.R.T.) in December 2023. For A.R.T., Jack also produced Arrabal (Elliot Norton Award for Best Production and Gala Production at the Ibero- American Theater Festival in Bogotá, Colombia). Jack produced Playbill’s ¡Viva Broadway! Hear Our Voices concert for The Broadway League, Voices for Change at Ars Nova, as well as NextGen Spotlight and Home for the Holidays for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, raising over $350k for artists struggling during the Covid-19 pandemic. His producing career has been bolstered by 33 years as a stage and screen actor. Jack made his Broadway debut in Jerome Robbins’ Broadway, which was followed by Cats, A Chorus Line, Sweet Smell of Success, and the original Toronto company of the international hit, Come From Away. Some of his favorite screen credits include his debut in Encino Man, as well as ALIVE, Event Horizon, The Brady Bunch Movie, Undercover Brother, Cecil B. Demented, Killing Kennedy, and several Jonathan Mostow films including Surrogates, Breakdown, and U-571. His television credits include Elvis, Mrs. Cage, Shades of Blue, CSI, Judging Amy, Crossing Jordan, Law & Order, Law & Order SVU, and Dead at 21. Jack received his Master’s Degree in Performing Arts Administration from New York University and is a proud graduate of The Boston Conservatory at Berklee as well as the Commercial Theatre Institute.

Figure skating is similar to gymnastics and even dance, where there is an aesthetic and athletic component to competition. This is a sport where we see incredible displays of athleticism, as well as beauty and grace. So Yasi and Steven wanted to learn more about the life and training of a competitive figure skater by talking to one of the best in U.S. figure skating history, Todd Eldredge.  We are also joined by Athletes and the Arts founding member--and Todd's skating prodigy--Julie Kirchen.For more about Todd, go to https://toddeldredge.coFor more on U.S. Figure Skating, go to https://www.usfigureskating.orgFor resources and info on Athletes and the Arts, go to http://athletesandthearts.comBio:Todd Eldredge: His World Championship title, six U.S. National Championship titles, six World Championship medals and having achieved three Olympic teams, are testament to his incredible technical skill, consistency, and intense work ethic.Eldredge, began skating at age of 5, winning his first U.S. Championship title (1990) at age 18. He defended his title in 1991 and made his first appearance on the World podium that same year. For the next three seasons he struggled with injury. His return to the top of the U.S. podium in 1995 marked the first time a skater in U.S. history reclaimed the title of U.S. Champion after a 3-year absence from the podium.On March 21, 1996, Todd Eldredge became the first American in 8 years to win the gold medal (since Brian Boitano) at the World Championships.After his third Olympics in 2002, Eldredge joined the renowned Stars on Ice tour where he entertained audiences across the U.S., Japan, and Canada for 11 years. In 2008, he was inducted into the U.S. Figure Skating Hall of Fame.

We shine our spotlight on the New Orleans Musician's Clinic, the only low or no-cost medical clinic in the United State dedicated to caring for performing artists. They have been a founding member of Athletes and the Arts since our launch 10 years ago, and their outreach includes preventing noise-induced hearing loss.  Joining Yasi and Steven on the show are Taylor Cohen, Public Health Director, Kalie Falls, Community Outreach, Ngoma Numu Jordan, New Orleans musician, and Dr. Marshall Chasin, director of research and chief audiologist of the Musicians' Clinics of Canada. For more information on the clinic, go to https://neworleansmusiciansclinic.orgFor Dr Chasin's clinic, go to https://marshallchasinassociates.ca/index.htmFor Athletes and the Arts, go to https://www.athletesandthearts.comTo listen to Ngoma's 2021 album, "Ngoma Numu", go to https://music.apple.com/us/album/ngoma-numu/1578706106

Sponsored by School Health: https://www.schoolhealth.comYasi and Steven talk with Ryan Dusick, the founding drummer of Maroon 5 and now licensed therapist and life coach in Los Angeles.  He went from being a Little League baseball phenom to drummer for the world's hottest rock band before injuries and mental illness forced him out of music.  He spent a decade suffering from substance abuse and crippling anxiety.  How he recovered, found redemption, and discovered a new calling is detailed in his book "Harder To Breathe: A Memoir of Making Maroon 5, Losing It All, and Finding Recovery."Ryan's website is www.ryandusick.comRyan's instagram is @ryan_michael_dusickFind Ryan's book here: www.amazon.com/Harder-Breathe-Memoir-Finding-Recovery/dp/1637742339Bio: Ryan Dusick is a registered associate marriage & family therapist and life coach with a BA from UCLA and an MA in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University. Ryan brings his unique journey as a successful creative person in recovery, as well as his many years of education and professional experience, to clients seeking help with their personal challenges. Ryan prefers to think of his work as a collaboration, in which he and his client work together to discover creative ways of addressing their issues, tailoring therapy to the distinctive needs of each individual.As a life coach, Ryan brings his background of success in the fields of music, literature, and mental health advocacy. His work both as an individual and in creative collaboration lends itself well to fostering the talents and ambitions of other creative people looking for help and advice in finding their way.Ryan brings compassion to those suffering through their mental health challenges, and believes his very purpose in life is to offer support, insight, and helpful guidance to each of his clients on their journey from struggling to thriving. He looks forward to working with you as you begin your passage to a life of fulfillment and purpose.

Yasi and Steven talk with the incomparable Galit Friedlander, professional dancer, choreographer for the LA Sparks Dance Team, fitness coach, and host of the DanceSpeak podcast. She is also part of Doctors for Dancers, founded by our second guest, CEO Jennifer DePaola, who work to bring dance medicine specialists together to care for dancers of all ages and levels. Galit and Jennifer join us today to discuss their journeys to advocating health and wellness nationwide. Galit also discusses her personal battles, facing self-doubt, depression and rejection at a young age to assistant choreographing for Prince, dancing with Pharrell Williams and MC Lyte, and now working as a certified personal trainer and conditioning coach. Above all, Galit and Jennifer show us the power of telling yourself "Yes I Can". For Galit's website, go to https://www.gogalit.comGalit's instagram is @gogalitThe DanceSpeak podcast instagram is @dancespeakFor Doctors for Dancers website, go to https://www.doctorsfordancers.comDFD's instagram is @doctorsfordancersFor Athletes and the Arts website, go to https://www.athletesandthearts.comOur instagram is @athletesandtheartspodcastBios:GALIT FRIEDLANDER is a professional dancer, choreographer, coach, and host of the popular podcast DanceSpeak, now entering its 7th year.Although Galit’s training began in New York with Jazz, Ballet, Modern, and West African, she soon fell in love with the world of street dance, where she learned from the best of NYC's underground dancers. At the age of 14, she was accepted to LaGuardia High School, also known as the 'Fame' school, where she studied Theatre and each day  and then train in dance in the afternoons and evenings. Her unique ability to bring these two worlds together has contributed to her style of choreography and dance.In 2011, Galit defied all odds when she worked as the Assistant Choreographer for PRINCE's Welcome 2 America Tour, choreographed the film A Reason To Sing, and began teaching workshops and classes throughout Los Angeles. Credits include Pharrell's record-breaking Happy video, choreographing and dancing in tours across the U.S. and China, MC Lyte (Cravin), and traveling to Guatemala as a ‘Pepsi’ dancer.Recently, Galit has been brought on as Director for the LA SparKids (Dance Team for the National WNBA Champions, the LA Sparks) and continues to travel between Los Angeles, New York, and other cities sharing her love for dance in classes and workshops.Galit is also a recurring host for the Doctors For Dancers online talk series. Galit’s mission is to expand the knowledge and untapped gifts of others through dance, exercise, and intentional choreography.JENNIFER DEPAOLA is the founder of Doctors For Dancers. She started dancing at the tender age of 2, starting with ballet and tap. As she grew, Jennifer developed a deep appreciation for various dance styles, particularly jazz and hip-hop. Her training encompassed prestigious establishments such as Plumb Dance Studio, under the guidance of Sheila and Lisa Plumb, and The Dance Source in Scottsdale, Arizona, where she had the privilege of learning from renowned instructors Judi and Brian Friedman. However, Jennifer's dance career faced setbacks due to persistent back pain. This personal struggle ignited her to establish Doctors For Dancers in 2019, dedicated to connecting dancers with specialized healthcare professionals when they require expert care. Her mission is to serve as a vital resource for dancers worldwide, bridging the gap between Dance Specialists and the dance community. Through educational initiatives, comprehensive resources, and community outreach programs, Jennifer strives to ensure that dancers receive the proper care and support they deserve.

The U.S. fitness industry is valued at almost $90 billion, ranging from health clubs to boutique studios, online platforms to digital home machines.  Yoga to HIIT, Pilates to barre, Tonal to Peloton...the fitness world is vast and diverse.  So how does it all work behind the scenes? If you're a performing artist, how do you break into the fitness industry? How do you stand out? Become a fitness celebrity? Develop your very own fitness brand?Yasi and Steven sit down with someone who has LITERALLY done everything we just described in the fitness industry, Frances Flores.  A former professional dancer, she used her training and experience on cruise ships to move into the fitness industry, eventually becoming a nationally renowned yoga instructor, personal trainer & wellness coach.  She is a former coach and manager at various Equinox clubs in Los Angeles CA, a former coach on Tonal, and numerous online platforms like Sweat Factor. She is now focused on her own fitness brand, ShapedbyFrances.  Her journey is inspiring and instructive for understanding how performance and fitness are intertwined.For Frances' website, go to www.ShapedByFrances.comFrances can be also found on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/francesflores/For read some of Frances' prior interviews, go to: http://voyagela.com/interview/meet-frances-flores-shaped-frances-los-angeles-online-workouts-accessible-anywhere-private-person-sessions-public-events-mostly-west-side-not-restricted/https://www.oxygenmag.com/training-tips-for-women/sports-medicine-for-women/flexibility-and-mobility/10-tips-for-more-effective-stretching/https://shoutoutla.com/meet-frances-flores/https://www.marthastewart.com/8073988/is-yoga-really-exerciseFor more from Athletes and the Arts, go to www.athletesandthearts.com or follow our Instagram @athletesandthearts.Bio: Frances Flores: A Former Professional Dancer, Frances Has Quickly Made A Name For Herself As One Of The Most Sought-After Yoga, Fitness & Health Professionals In Los Angeles And Around The World. Bilingual Celebrity Trainer, Wellness Expert, Former Coach On Tonal, And Guest Coach On Multiple Platforms, Frances Combines Her Training In Dance, Yoga, Strength Training, Overall Fitness And Nutrition, In A Balanced Approach To Well-Being.Born And Raised In The Beautiful Island Of Enchantment: Puerto Rico. This Fiery Latina Is Known To Bring Her Positive Energy, Humor, Creativity, And Her Infectious & Bubbly Personality To Everything She Does. After Witnessing The Transformative Effect That Her Coaching And Training Has In Many Of Her Clients, She Felt Inspired To Create The #SHAPEDBYFRANCES Movement.

Yasi and Steven explore college dance education at one of the largest performing arts programs in the country, the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance. Specifically, we talk about adapting to a rapidly evolving post-COVID educational environment, the effects of the Michigan State University shooting on students and faculty, integrating Black activism into one's artistic journey, the effects of competition dance on college dance education, and mental health.Our guests on this exploration are Jillian Hopper, assistant professor of dance at the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance, and Brooke Taylor, senior dance major at SMTD and founder of Black Scholars in Dance. For more about University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance, go to https://smtd.umich.edu/For Brooke Taylor's dance reel, go to youtu.be/wUAZJUmmHBQFor more information on Jillian's Dance Legacy Project at the University of Michigan, go to https://smtd.umich.edu/the-dance-legacy-project/Brooke's Instagram is @brooke.alexandria.taylor Jillian's instagram is @hopperjillianFor more about Athletes and the Arts or to find resources, go to http://athletesandthearts.com/Bios:Jillian Hopper: Jillian Hopper is an assistant professor of dance at the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance and is the Artistic Director of The Dance Legacy Project at Michigan alongside creative partner Prof. Christian Matijas-Mecca. She specializes in the dance technique of Doris Humphrey with the aim of preserving the technique for future generations as a Trustee of the Doris Humphrey Foundation, UK (England). Hopper also focuses her physical practice on methods of embodiment for the purpose of increasing empathy and sensitivity in practice and performance. These skills have assisted Hopper as a director of the DLP and within her own choreography. Her latest project Mirror Ritual: a chamber ballet in three tableaus premiered on Feb 2, 2023, at the Power Center for Performing Arts in Ann Arbor, MI, and is a collaboration with composer Griffin Candey. She has taught professionally for Hillsdale College, Eastern Michigan University, Middlesex University (London, UK) The Place (London, UK), and Northern School of Contemporary Dance (Leeds, UK). As rehearsal director for U-M, Hopper has had the pleasure of rehearsing guest works by Ohad Naharin, Richard Alston, Lucinda Childs, Urban Bush Women, Alessio Silvestrin, and Shannon Gillen (Vim Vigor) among others. Hopper received her BA (Hons) choreography from Middlesex University London, UK (2007) and her MFA Dance Performance from the University of Michigan (2012). She is on the board of directors for ConteXture Dance Detroit. In her own work, Hopper explores ritualistic movement concepts with an emphasis on nature’s powerful spirituality. She has performed in works by Doris Humphrey, Peter Sparling, Monica Bill Barnes, Sidra Bell, Danny T. Reid, Tracy Halloran, and many of her own compositions throughout the Midwest and Europe.Brooke Taylor: Brooke Taylor is a senior at the University of Michigan pursuing Dance and a minor in Education for Empowerment. As a 17 year trained dancer in ballet, modern, tap, and jazz, her passion is the intersection of art and activism. This new found passion has led Taylor in creating work that fo

Never before have so many excellent films, docuseries, and TV shows been produced about many important topics…historical events, political upheaval, stories of courage and personal triumph, true crime, and of course…athletes and artists.  To learn more about this golden age of documentary filmmaking, Yasi and Steven talk to award-winning filmmaker Marius Markevicius.  His new film that just debuted at the Austin Film Festival is “Thug Rose”, about famed UFC straw-weight champion Rose Namajunas. Her career is legendary, and Marius goes behind the scenes to capture her training, fighting, and performing…classical music on piano.  Marius also talks about his 2012 Sundance award-winning documentary “The Other Dream Team”, focusing on the Lithuanian Olympic Bronze-medal winning basketball team in 1992, whose story of perseverance and success amid political strife in a war-torn country fighting for its own independence would have been the main story that year, had the NBA not sent their own Dream Team to Barcelona.  To see the trailer for "Thug Rose", go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CEKwzbxDb80For information on Marius' film career, go to https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2101256/Biography:Marius Markevicius is an award-winning filmmaker and founder of Sorrento Productions based in Santa Monica, CA.In 2022, Marius completed “THUG ROSE”, the feature length documentary about Rose Namajunas, a two-time mixed martial arts world champion fighter who is an advocate for mental wellness and also a classical pianist. "THUG ROSE" will be premiering at the Austin Film Festival October 30, 2022 and will be released on UFC's Fight Pass network on November 9th, 2022He is currently producing a documentary film “THE WIFE OF”, about the Women of the Belarus independence movement featuring opposition leader Svetlana Tsikhanouskaya.In 2018, Marius directed and produced "ASHES IN THE SNOW”, the film adaptation of the New York Times best-selling novel “Between Shades of Gray”. The film stars Gotham Award winning actress Bel Powley (Diary of a Teenage Girl) and Martin Wallstrom (Golden Globe winning TV series Mr. Robot).Marius also directed, produced & wrote the documentary feature film “THE OTHER DREAM TEAM,” which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival. The film was distributed internationally by Lionsgate and Disney and was nominated for Best Documentary of the Year by the Producers Guild of America (PGA).He was a producer and raised financing for the 2016 feature film “1 Night” starring Kyle Allen (Westside Story) which premiered at the Austin Film Festival and was distributed by Level Films.Marius was a co-producer on "LIKE CRAZY," the 2011 Sundance Film Festival Grand Jury Prize-winning film starring Felicity Jones (Academy Award Nominee) and Jennifer Lawrence (Academy Award Winner). The film was purchased and distributed by Paramount Pictures.In 2010, Marius served as Associate Producer on "THE WAY BACK," a feature film from Academy Award-nominated director Peter Weir starring Ed Harris, and Colin Farrell.Marius attended the University of California Los Angeles for graduate studies, where he received a Master’s Degree in fine arts (MFA) from the UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television.

When COVID-19 caused schools to keep students of all grades at home, those arguably most disadvantaged by this were musicians. Many barriers stood in the way of getting students back in the music room: aerosolization from instruments and voice, close proximity between students, secretions from brass instruments, and antiquated ventilation systems in thousands of school buildings. Early projections indicated that musicians would not get back in the room for 2 YEARS! Well, that didn't happen, and our guests are a huge reason why. Steven and Yasi talk to Dr. Mark Spede, Director of Bands and Conductor of the Symphonic Band at Clemson University, and Dr. James Weaver,  Director of Performing Arts and Sports for the National Federation of State High School Associations. These two gentlemen collaborated on expedient and collaborative research that helped crack the code on how to play music in a post-pandemic school environment. To read more on their groundbreaking research, go to https://www.nfhs.org/articles/unprecedented-international-coalition-led-by-performing-arts-organizations-to-commission-covid-19-study/For more on National Federation of State High Schools' online education platform, go to https://nfhslearn.com/For more resources, go to https://athletesandthearts.com/Bios: Dr. James Weaver is the Director of Performing Arts and Sports for the National Federation of State High School Associations. He has been a teacher and administrator at the district, state, and national level. As the Director of Performing Arts and Sports, Dr. Weaver oversees student participation, professional development, and awareness of performing arts activities throughout the nation’s 19,500+ high schools. Dr. Weaver has been a part of several national projects for performing arts educators including serving as the co-chair of the International Performing Arts Aerosol Study, creating copyright compliance resources, and developing national trainings for performing arts adjudicators. He most recently became the President of the National Music Council (NMC) in the Fall of 2021. Dr. Weaver specializes in educational administration and leadership focusing on professional development and teacher job satisfaction and retention. Dr. Weaver has degrees from Concordia College - Moorhead, Northern State University, and the University of South Dakota.Dr. Mark J. Spede is Professor of Music, Director of Bands, Director of Tiger Band, and Conductor of the Symphonic Band at Clemson University. He is the recipient of the Clemson University 2009 Dean’s Award for Excellence in Teaching (College of Architecture, Arts, and Humanities), and three Clemson University Board of Trustees Awards for Faculty Excellence (2008, 2009, and 2012). He has served the College Band Directors National Association (CBDNA) in a number of capacities; he is currently national president. Dr. Spede previously served on the faculties at the University of Texas and the University of Florida and has degrees from the University of Michigan, Ball State University, and the University of Texas.

Your voice...perhaps the most underrated and misunderstood human ability.  For an ankle sprain, you go see a trainer, a physical therapist, a sports doc, you wear a brace, get taped, do some exercises.  For vocal injuries, for vocal dysfunctions, what do you do? How do you make your voice better? How do you improve your performance? Well, just like athletes, vocalists have vocal coaches, speech therapists, and voice doctors whose life’s work is dedicated to keep vocalists performing.  So to learn more about caring for the professional voice, Yasi and Steven talk to Robert Sataloff, MD, world renowned otolaryngologist and the leader of The Voice Foundation, the world’s oldest and leading organization dedicated to voice research, medicine, science, and education. He is joined by Deanna McBroom, AATA liaison to The Voice Foundation, Singing Teacher and Singing Voice Specialist through the Voice Institute at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, SC.For the Voice Foundation, go to https://voicefoundation.org/For Athletes and the Arts, go to https://www.athletesandthearts.com/For more on Dr Sataloff, go to https://drexel.edu/medicine/faculty/profiles/robert-sataloff/Bios:Deanna McBroom, MM is a Singing Teacher and works as a Singing Voice Specialist through the Voice Institute at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, SC. She has worked closely with MUSC laryngologist Dr. Lucinda Halstead to treat injured singers since they both attended The Voice Foundation’s annual symposium in 1986. She recently retired from college-level teaching at The College of Charleston, where she led the voice program in providing conservatory-level training in a Liberal Arts & Sciences environment. She’s also maintained a singing career for 40+ years, performing in recitals, orchestral concerts, and operas throughout the US and in Europe. Ms. McBroom is the Steering Committee representative to Athletes and the Arts from both The Voice Foundation (TVF) and from the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS) and currently serves as a member of the Board of Directors for the Performing Arts Medicine Association (PAMA). Her passion for healthy singing led her to assist both NATS and PAMA with their 2019-2021 guidelines and research tools for singers and teachers to deal with Covid-19. She frequently presents research papers and workshops at international meetings; journals with articles published include Journal of Voice and College Music Symposium.  Robert T. Sataloff, MD, DMA, FACS is Professor and Chairman, Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery and Senior Associate Dean for Clinical Academic Specialties, Drexel University College of Medicine. Dr. Sataloff is Director of Otolaryngology and Communication Sciences Research at the Lankenau Institute for Medical Research, and Director of Otolaryngology Education at Lankenau Medical Center. He also holds Adjunct Professorships in the Departments of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery at Thomas Jefferson University, Temple University and the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine; and he is on the faculty of the Academy of Vocal Arts. He serves as Conductor of the Thomas Jefferson University Choir. Dr. Sataloff is also a professional singer and singing teacher.Dr. Sataloff is Chairman of the Boards of Directors of the Voice Foundation and of the American Institute for Voice and Ear Research. He is Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Voice; Editor Emeritus of Ear, Nose and Throat Journal; Associate E

Perhaps no field in medicine is fraught with as much misinformation and confusion as nutrition. This directly impacts the dance world, as many restrict the very food elements that fuels a dancer to perform. So Yasi and Steven get into it with two of Yasi's colleagues and mentors from the Sports and Human Performance Nutrition practice group, Michelle Macedonio MS, RDN, LD and Roberta Anding MS, RD/LD, CSSD, CDE. Joining the conversation is former professional dancer and current dietitian-in-training, Astrid Zuluaga-Lopez.For more information about SHPN, go to https://www.shpndpg.orgTo attend the next Food and Nutrition Conference & Expo on October 8-11, 2022, go to https://www.shpndpg.org/shpn-fnce For more about Athletes and the Arts, go to https://athletesandthearts.comFor more about Astrid, go to https://astridzlg.wixsite.com/mysiteFollow Astrid on Instagram at @undesastridBios:Michele Macedonio, MS, RD, CSSD, LD: a registered, licensed dietitian and Board Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics, she is the owner of Nutrition Strategies®, LLC a nutrition consulting business providing nutrition communications, education, and counseling specializing in sports and human performance, cardiovascular health, and wellness. Michele works with physically active people including youth, high school, collegiate, and professional athletes. Her clients have included two professional soccer teams, Xavier University Men’s Basketball team, and the University of Dayton Men’s Basketball team. She served as the Cincinnati Bengals’ team dietitian for eight years and 11 years as team dietitian with the Cincinnati Reds MLB baseball team.Michele has served as a consultant and spokesperson for members of food and beverage industry, has authored nutrition articles and education materials, book chapters including the 3 rd , 4 th , 5 th and 6 th editions of SCAN Sports Nutrition: A Practice Manual for Professionals, and is co-author of The Athlete’s Guide to Making Weight.Her professional volunteer and leadership positions have included Editor-in-chief of SCAN’S PULSE, SCAN Chair, Director of Sports-Dietetics USA, SHPN Keynote Sessions Committee, and CDR’s Board Certification Specialty Panel.Roberta Anding MS, RD/LD, CSSD, CDE: Director of Performance Nutrition at Rice University, Assistant Professor in the Baylor College of Medicine Department of Orthopedic Surgery. She is the former sports dietitian for the 2017 World Champion Houston Astros, Houston Texans NFL franchise, Director of Sports Nutrition at Texas Children’s Hospital, and the Houston Ballet.Astrid Zuluaga Lopez: Former professional ballet dancer with 20 years of experience in ballet training as a performer and instructor. Trained pre-professionally at Allegro Estudio de Ballet and Miami City Ballet School, and danced professionally in Ballet Nacional de Panama and Arts Ballet Theater of Florida. She is currently a ballet and Pilates instructor at Ballet and Pilates by Victoria and Ellie Paige Dance Company in Houston, Texas. She is also an MS student in Exercise and Sports Nutrition and an RDN-to-be aspiring toward a dietetics career in the fields of dance and athletics.

Perhaps nothing embodies the idea of "Athletes and the Arts" than professional wrestling. For 52 weeks a year, AEW (All Elite Wrestling) tours the world, putting on shows that combine athleticism, power, theatricality, performance, and toughness that thrills audiences everywhere. So how in the world can they do it week after week? How do they perform gravity-defying stunts and falls without fracturing their spines? How does one become a champion wrestler and stay sane doing it? Steven and Yasi go backstage with AEW Medical Director Dr. Michael Sampson to find out. He brings with him two of AEW's biggest stars, AEW TNT Champion Wardlow and TNT Women's World Champion Thunder Rosa. Get ready for an exciting show that will thrill and inspire you!Opening music for Wardlow and Thunder Rosa owned and supplied by All Elite Wrestling. For more information on AEW Wrestling, go to https://www.allelitewrestling.com and https://aewlinks.com. Check out exclusive AEW action on YouTube.com/AEW.For more info on Athletes and the Arts, go to https://athletesandthearts.comFollow Thunder Rosa on Twitter at @thunderrosa22, instagram at @thunderrosa22 and her website at thunderrosaofficial.comFollow Wardlow on Twitter at @RealWardlow and Instagram at @realwardlow.Follow Dr. Michael Sampson on Twitter at @DocSampson13.

Raymond Meade has been in the UK music industry for over two decades, first as a singer/songwriter for the Ronelles, a solo artist and session musician, and current bassist for Ocean Colour Scene. He also made a BBC documentary about the music of Auschwitz. His life is literally in his hands.So what happens when those hands start tingling during a concert...and it doesn't stop? When you suddenly can't play music? When your doctors tell you that you have Multiple Sclerosis? Listen to Yasi and Steven's interview with Raymond as they talk about him facing his own mortality, the strength of friendship and family to survive, and the perils of a music career on the edge. Also, meet Dr. Mark Janicki, an neurologist and MS specialist from Indiana, whose "always leave a patient with a smile" approach and early intervention from across the pond helped Raymond tackle the biggest challenge of his life.Follow Raymond on Twitter at @raymeade82Follow Raymond on Instagram at @ray_meade82For more information on Multiple Sclerosis (MS), go to https://www.nationalmssociety.orgFor more about Raymond's music career, go to https://www.powerpopaholic.com/artist-interviews/raymond-meadeTo listen to Ocean Colour Scene, go to https://www.oceancolourscene.comFor a link to Raymond's documentary, "The Railway People", go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ht0BuOhU_RQFor information about Mark Janicki, MD, go to https://www.witham.org/provider/mark-j-janicki-md-neurologyFor information about Athletes and the Arts, go to https://www.athletesandthearts.comBios:Raymond Meade: Raymond Meade is a session musician from Glasgow, best known for his work with Ocean Colour Scene and Gerry Cinnamon.  He has played on gold selling #1 albums and toured internationally for over 20 years, performing with some of the biggest names in music.Raymond also wrote and produced the New York Festivals Award winning documentary "The Railway People" which told the story of Holocaust Survivor Eva Kor and Raymond returning to Auschwitz together in 2016. The film was shown across the world. Eva and Raymond remained close friends until her death in 2019. During the pandemic years, Raymond produced a series of true crime podcasts which revisited The West Murders of 1994. Titled "Where No Shadow Falls", these podcasts featured key players in the case and were very well received.He is currently studying a degree course and learning the Polish language with a view to realising his ambition of becoming an Auschwitz tour guide in the future.He writes the occasional article for the men's lifestyle magazine GQ.In 2021, Raymond was diagnosed with relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis. He is married and lives in Glasgow with his wife Leanne.Mark Janicki, MD: He is a board certified neurologist, a fellow of the American Academy of neurology. He has been involved in over 15 clinical trials regarding disease modifying therapies for multiple sclerosis. He trained at Indiana University medical school and residency in neurology at Indiana University Medical Center. He has lived in Practice in the metropolitan Indianapolis area for the past 35 years. He is a diehard Indianapolis Colts fan. Married to Maribeth, he has five children and five grandchildren. He loves golf...it doesn't love him back.

On this episode, Steven and Yasi talk with the artistic and wellness pros behind Diablo Ballet, a professional dance company and ballet school in Walnut Creek, California. As they celebrate the end of their 28th season, we find out how they manage to keep health and wellness a priority, while maintaining artistic excellence. We also delve into the working relationships among the artistic director, principal dancers, and music composer in creating original ballets, while reflecting on staying afloat during a pandemic and handling the pressures of social media. Our guests are Dr Selina Shah MD, company physician for Diablo Ballet; Lauren Jonas, artistic director and co-founder, Diablo Ballet, Raymond Tilton, company dancer and School Principal and teacher of the Diablo Ballet School, and and Justin Levitt, award-winning music composer for the Ballet.   To learn about Diablo Ballet, go to https://diabloballet.org. Follow their Twitter at @diabloballet.For more about International Association of Dance Medicine and Science, go to https://iadms.org.For more about Athletes and the Arts, go to http://athletesandthearts.comGuest bios:Selina Shah, MD, FACP, FAMSSM is a board certified sports medicine and internal medicine physician in private practice in Walnut Creek, CA. She is the company physician for several dance companies and dance studios in the San Francisco Bay Area including Diablo Ballet, AXIS Dance Company, Contra Costa Ballet, San Francisco Ballet School, and Tiffany’s Dance Academy. She is a team physician for USA Artistic Swimming, USA Weightlifting, and USA Figure Skating. She also cares for Broadway shows and Cirque du Soleil when they come to the San Francisco Bay Area. She is past Treasurer and Board Member for the IADMS and is now on the board for The Bridge Dance Project and serves on the Executive Committee for the Taskforce on Dancer Health for Dance/USA. She has lectured nationally and internationally on various dance medicine topics, has published papers in medical journals and books, including criteria on determining readiness for pointe and her original research on demographics and dance injuries in modern dance and other injury case reports.Lauren Jonas trained at the Marin Ballet. She performed with the Milwaukee Ballet, the Oakland Ballet, the Southwest Ballet, and toured the United States with the Moscow Ballet. Since Diablo Ballet's premiere in 1994, Ms. Jonas has recruited dancers from around the world to present the finest in contemporary and classical ballets. A firm believer in the need to stimulate the cultural development of future generations, she co-created the Ballet’s PEEK Outreach Program in 1995. Ms. Jonas’ awards include the 2005 National Philanthropy Day honor, the 2000 Arts and Culture Commission Award of Contra Costa County, and the1998 Contra Costa County Woman of Achievement Award for the Arts. She is the 2014 recipient of the Contra Costa Commission for Women Contributing to the Arts, Hall of Fame award and was an honoree at the State Assembly’s Women’s History Month. In 2016, Ms. Jonas was honored at the Djerassi’s Women’s Residency Program for empowering women as leaders in the field of ballet. She is also the Co-Founder and Director of Diablo Ballet School. Raymond Tilton received his ballet training at San Elijo Dance Academy and San Francisco Ballet School. In 2010, he danced as an apprentice with the San Francisco Ballet and was promoted to the Company in 2011 dancing in ballets by some of today's most sought-after choreographers. Since joining Diablo Ballet in 2015, Mr. Tilton has performed the lead in numerous ballets including Christopher Wheeldon's Carousal (A Dance) and George Balanchine's Apollo. Mr. Tilton is the School Principal and teacher of Diablo Ballet School.Justin Levitt was first

The power of music and sound to heal the mind and body is being unlocked through new neuroscience research and education. Exciting developments are showing how music and sound can tap into important brain functions and even treat such conditions as Autism, concussion, Alzheimer's, and even aging. Yasi and Steven talk to two people at the forefront of this exploding field.Acclaimed soprano Renèe Fleming is not only one of the most famous performers in our history, she also spearheads multiple health initiatives involving Arts and Health, such as the Healing Breath Initiative, the NeuroArts Blueprint, the Sound Health Network, and the Music and Mind Live web series. She is joined today by Professor Nina Kraus of Northwestern University, founder of the BrainVolts Auditory Neuroscience Laboratory, and leader of an NIH-funded investigation at Northwestern to look at treating concussions with sound and rhythm. She also wrote "Of Sound Mind - How Our Brain Constructs a Meaningful Sonic World."For more about Renèe Fleming, go to https://reneefleming.comFor more about Nina Kraus and her BrainVolts lab, go to https://www.brainvolts.northwestern.edu.For Nina's book, "Of Sound Mind", go to https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/675902/of-sound-mind-by-nina-kraus/For more about Athletes and the Arts, go to https://www.athletesandthearts.com

Marching band, drum corps, bugle corps...it's part of sports worldwide, but it's also its own entertainment industry, and competition is fierce and deep. Drum Corps International is Marching Music's Major League, celebrating their 50th year of performance. They hold over 100 events and competitions, including Drumline Battles. One of the top competitors is the Colts Drum & Bugle Corps from Dubuque, Iowa, and today, Yasi and Steven talk with members of the Colts to find out just what it takes to make it into drum corps and marching bands...and stay healthy doing it!Our guests are Vicki McFarland, director of the Colts Drum & Bugle Corps in Dubuque Iowa and Board member of Drum Corps International, Jennifer Pohlman, athletic trainer for the Colts Drum & Bugle Corps and DCI, and Steven Rock, MD, physician for the Colts Drum & Bugle Corps and Member of Drum Corps International's Marching Arts Safety and Health Advisory Board.For more information on Athletes and the Arts, go to https://www.athletesandthearts.com.For more about Drum Corps International, go to https://www.dci.orgFor more on the Colts Drum & Bugle Corp, go to https://colts.orgYouTube video heard in the episode of the Colts 2021 performance at the DCI Championships in Indianapolis, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2woDCVxcR5g&t=87s

Breaking, or Break Dancing, exploded in popularity in the 80s but thanks to TV and social media, it's more popular than ever, so much that it will become an Olympic sport at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. Yasi and Steven talk to one of the U.S. Olympic hopefuls, Bboy Morris, and the medical team that helps him get there, Aaron Ngor and TeeJay Lee, founders of Offset Med. We get in deep about the Breaking community, its growth from the 80s to today, and how much physical stamina and training it takes to be one of the best in the world.For Athletes and the Arts, go to https://www.athletesandthearts.comFor Offset Med, go to https://www.offsetmed.comFor video of Bboy Morris on World of Dance on NBC, https://youtu.be/RIARfQuc2HYTo see Bboy Morris win the 2021 Red Bull BC One Cypher championship, https://youtu.be/ULKfAk9BqzAFollow Bboy Morris on Instagram at @bboymorris_Follow Aaron Ngor on Instagram at @aaronngor or his Doctors for Dancers page at https://doctorsfordancers.com/546/doctorsfordancers-aaron-ngor/Follow Teejay Lee on Instagram at @teejaylee or his Doctors for Dancers page at https://doctorsfordancers.com/directory/tj-lee-atacp-cota-l-fmt/Morris “Bboy Morris” Isby, III began breaking as a high school student in Sacramento, CA., after watching Battle of the Year: 1998 on VHS. The artistry and athleticism he saw in the battles inspired him to begin practicing daily in his parent’s garage. Whether competing solo or alongside crew members, b-boy Morris has maintained his status as a champion competitor, boasting over 120 competitive wins under his belt to date. When he’s not competing or performing, Morris is dedicated to ushering in the next generation of breakers through volunteering and mentorship. He is currently training to compete in the 2024 Paris summer games.Aaron Ngor, ATC is the co-founder and CEO of Offset Med, a company that aims to co-create the future of health and performance for artist-athletes worldwide. His early experiences as a dancer highlighted the inequities and lack of qualified healthcare professionals that are commonly seen serving traditional sports. Aaron  is a sherpa for the overlooked athlete, an investor for the undervalued artist, and a diplomat for the movement arts. His previous work experience includes the Clinic for Science and Health in Artistic Performance (SHAPe Clinic) at Ohio University, Disneyland Resort (Anaheim, CA), AMDA College of the Performing Arts (Los Angeles, CA), and University of Southern California (Los Angeles, CA). Aaron’s personal guiding mission is to create opportunities that facilitate the intersection of art, movement, and community development.Taejun “TeeJay” Lee has a background in Occupational Therapy and strives to help people be the best they can be in their daily lives. Teejay has his Bachelor of Science in health education and earned his Occupational Therapy Assistant License in 2015. His personal experience with a disability and knowledge of pain through certifications in different techniques and modalities has led him to work on clients of all backgrounds. Notable clients include Emmy Awarded Dance Crew Quest Crew and World of Dance Season 2 Winners: The Lab.