Zen breaks down pole dance shoes — Pleasers, Hella Heels, and heel heights — in this watch-worthy episode.

In this episode, Zen gives a practical breakdown of pole dance footwear and why your shoes matter just as much as your grip. She compares Pleasers and Hella Heels, explains how different heel heights (6”, 7”, 8”) affect your movement, and shares tips for choosing the right pair for your style and level.

This is a visual episode: if you can, watch the video version to actually see the differences between brands and heel heights demonstrated side by side.

Whether you’re a beginner looking for your first pair or an experienced dancer curious about upgrading your collection, this guide will help you find the right shoes to support both your movement and your artistry.

Upcoming Events Mentioned:

• Harry Potter–themed comedy pole show with Christina Kalf (Zen as Moaning Myrtle) – September

• PSO Competition in Los Angeles – September

• Secret Pole Dance Studio Halloween Showcase – October

• Ladies of Leisure Halloween Pole Party – October

  
  

  Pleasers IG: @pleasershoes

  Hella Heels IG: @clubhellaheels

  
  

  If you found this episode interesting, please like, comment and share!

In this episode, Zen sits down with Brian Riegel, a true pioneer in the pole community. With more than a decade of experience, Brian was one of the early male performers to step onto a pole stage — challenging stereotypes and carving out space for men in a predominantly female art form.

Brian shares how his journey with pole began as an act of rebellion, a bold decision to push back against expectations and embrace something unconventional. What started as defiance soon turned into a deep source of expression, discipline, and community. Over the years, his passion for pole has taken him across the world — including competing in China, where he represented the artistry and athleticism of the sport on a global stage.

In this conversation, Brian opens up about:

• Why he first turned to pole as a way to break rules and claim his identity

• What it was like to be one of the few men in pole a decade ago

• How his motivations shifted over time, from rebellion to resilience and joy

• His experience competing in China and what he learned from the international community

• Why he encourages everyone to just “give it a try” — because you never know where it will take you

This is a conversation about risk, reinvention, and the unexpected power of saying yes to something new. Brian’s story proves that sometimes the very act of stepping out of line can lead you to your truest self.

✨ Connect with Brian on Instagram @riegelbrian

If his journey inspires you, please share this episode with someone who might need the courage to take their own first step.

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Pole progress isn’t about checking off a list of moves someone else decided you “should” learn—it’s about finding the movements that work for you and leaning into them.

In this solo episode, Nancy (aka Zen) invites you to ditch the frustration of forcing your body into shapes that don’t align with its current strengths, proportions, or flexibility. Instead, she encourages you to discover what comes naturally, build on it, and watch your progress accelerate.

It’s a mindset shift that brings more joy, more confidence, and more breakthroughs—on the pole and beyond. Plus, Nancy shares details about her upcoming beginner pole & movement workshop in Newburgh, NY, and other events on the horizon.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

• How to identify the moves and styles that work best for your body

• Why chasing “should” moves can lead to frustration and stagnation

• The benefits of playing to your strengths to build confidence and momentum

• Reframing success to focus on joy, curiosity, and personal growth

• Details about the next upcoming beginner pole & movement workshop in Newburgh, NY

• A sneak peek at more workshops and events coming soon

💬 Favorite quote:

“If we’re having fun and learning about ourselves each time we step into the studio, that is success.”