In this episode of the Lead and Create podcast, Neus Gil Cortes chats with Stuart Waters about innovative leadership in the dance industry. With 24 years of experience, Stuart shares his journey through mental health challenges, addiction, and his approach to collaborative, inclusive practices. They discuss the significance of honesty, flexibility, and active listening in dance spaces, and explore how to bring marginalized communities into the fold. This conversation offers profound insights into creating healthier, more fulfilling artistic processes.00:18 Introduction to the Lead and Create Podcast00:48 Meet Stuart Waters: Performer and Choreographer02:55 Stuart's Journey: From Success to Struggle07:55 The Importance of Honesty in Dance10:05 Balancing Process and Product in Dance14:00 Collaborative and Inclusive Practices16:20 Head On: Activism and Mental Health in Dance19:02 Engaging Marginalised Audiences23:09 What can we learn from working with Disability and Access Needs29:52 Rethinking Leadership in Dance44:05 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsFollow Stuart Waters on Instagram Sign up to our newsletter to receive more information about Rethinking Leadership Conversations and the online Leadership course