Welcome back to The Real Kiz podcast! In this episode, host Annabelle and her co-host, Ollie the Octopus, welcome a special guest, Hamza, a dancer from Tunisia. Together, they explore the intricacies of the dance community, touching on personal experiences, challenges faced by dancers, and the importance of inclusivity and kindness on the dance floor.

Hamza shares his unique path into the world of dance, starting with his first Bachata class in 2020. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, he was determined to pursue his passion. After an unexpected injury and a shift to Kizomba, he discovered a new love for dance, highlighting the importance of resilience and adaptability in the face of obstacles.

The conversation shifts to the different learning styles in dance classes. Hamza notes the significance of class dynamics and how they affect the learning experience for both leaders and followers. He emphasizes the need for a supportive environment where everyone can thrive, regardless of their skill level.

As they dive deeper, Annabelle and Hamza discuss the transition from classes to social dancing. Hamza reflects on his hesitations and the importance of finding supportive peers. The duo emphasizes the necessity of treating every dancer with respect, regardless of their experience level, and the potential repercussions of toxic behavior within the dance community.

The discussion turns to the more serious topic of toxicity in the dance world. Annabelle and Hamza candidly address how both men and women can perpetuate negative behaviors. They argue for the need to cultivate kindness and empathy, urging dancers to be mindful of their actions and the impact they have on others. The importance of communication is highlighted, especially in giving and receiving feedback during dances.

Towards the end of the episode, Hamza and Annabelle brainstorm ways to create a healthier dance environment. They advocate for a culture of inclusivity, suggesting that all dancers, regardless of skill level, should feel welcome and supported. They also propose establishing channels for reporting misconduct, ensuring that everyone can enjoy dancing without fear of negativity.

In this enlightening episode, Hamza's journey and insights shed light on the dance community's complexities. The key takeaways are clear: foster a supportive environment, treat every dancer with respect, and strive for kindness in all interactions. As the dance community continues to grow, it’s crucial to remember that everyone shares the same love for dance, and together, we can create a more inclusive space for all.

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@hamzayazidbelkhiria @a_belle94 @the_real_kiz_podcast

This episode with Miranda Kittie explores the contrasting experiences of introverts and extroverts in the dance scene, highlighting personal journeys of confidence and self-expression. The conversation delves into how dance serves as a social activity that fosters connection and vulnerability, ultimately building confidence and self-awareness. In the vibrant world of dance, introverts and extroverts alike find a unique space to express themselves. Dance is a social activity that builds confidence. For introverts, dance offers a safe space to express themselves without words, while extroverts thrive in the social interactions it fosters. The dance floor becomes a stage where vulnerability leads to personal growth. Kittie shares her personal journey with dance, illustrating how it has shaped her confidence and self-awareness. Vulnerability in dance leads to personal growth and emphasizes the transformative power of dance. Dance connects people with different personalities, fostering kindness and understanding, highlighting the importance of empathy and connection in the dance community. Whether you're an introvert or an extrovert, dance offers a path to self-awareness and personal growth.

Join us as we explore the social side of dance and discover how it can transform your life.

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Miranda Kittie, cancer survivor and engineer turned full time dancer, is a professional dancer born with passion and purpose for dance. In her 27 years of dancing she has competed, choreographed, performed, and coached many dance styles and considers herself a Jill of all trades. As a teacher, Kittie’s specialty is empowering people to find their confidence through dance. At the heart of her passion is the liberation of both the body and mind from societal expectations and predetermined narratives around feminine sensual expression. As a performer, Kittie lures you into her sensuous world to connect you with your voice within that also yearns to be unleashed. @miranda.kittie.dance @a_belle94 @the_real_kiz_podcast

In this episode of The Real Kiz Podcast, Annabelle engages in a vibrant conversation with Tudor, an urban kiz dancer from Romania. They explore Tudor's dance journey, the challenges faced by new dancers, the importance of connection and respect in dance, and the dynamics of taxi dancing at festivals. Tudor shares insights on the role of dance teachers, the pros and cons of festival workshops, and the ongoing issue of lead-follow imbalance in the dance community. The conversation emphasizes the need for patience, understanding, and mutual respect among dancers to create a positive and enjoyable dance experience. In this conversation, Tudor and Anna explore various aspects of dance, particularly focusing on the emotional and social dynamics involved in partner dancing. They discuss the impact of music on the dance experience, the etiquette surrounding ending a dance, the importance of aftercare, and the potential for romantic connections that can arise from dancing.

Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the lead's experience and the art of dance.

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@kamarad_kizz @a_belle94 @therealkizpodcast