The TalkBack Podcast

Creating Space for Conversations That Matter

One of the things I love most about art is that it opens doors. A performance can move someone emotionally before they ever have words for why. Dance, music, storytelling, and creativity have this incredible ability to connect us to each other and to something deeper.

That is really the heart behind the TalkBack Podcast.

I wanted to create a space where conversations could continue beyond the stage. A place where artists, audiences, leaders, and creatives could speak honestly about process, purpose, faith, culture, struggle, inspiration, and the humanity behind the work we create.

Too often, people only see the finished product. They see the performance, the production photos, the polished moments. But what deeply interests me are the stories underneath it all: the questions artists wrestle with, the experiences that shape us, the purpose behind creating, and the ways art can impact both individuals and communities.

The TalkBack Podcast is an invitation into those conversations.

Why “TalkBack”?

In the performing arts world, a talkback usually happens after a performance. The audience stays, the artists come out, and together they process what was experienced. Questions are asked. Ideas are explored. Connections are made.

Some of my favorite moments in theater and dance happen there.

The TalkBack Podcast takes that idea and expands it beyond a single performance or production. It creates an ongoing dialogue about art and life, and how the two constantly shape one another.

Because I don’t believe art exists in a vacuum.

Art reflects culture. It challenges us. It comforts us. It exposes truth. Sometimes it asks questions we are afraid to ask ourselves. Sometimes it reminds us we are not alone.

And I think those conversations are worth having.

What You’ll Hear

Each episode will look a little different because creativity itself is never one-dimensional.

Some conversations will focus on dance and the creative process. Others may explore leadership, faith, collaboration, storytelling, education, identity, or the challenges artists face today. There will be behind-the-scenes discussions about Ballet 5:8 productions, conversations with guest artists and collaborators, and honest reflections about what it means to create meaningful work in today’s world.

More than anything, I want these conversations to feel human.

Not overly polished. Not performative. Just thoughtful, honest dialogue about the things that matter most to us as artists and people.

The Goal

My hope for the TalkBack Podcast is simple:

That it creates connection.

Connection between artists and audiences. Between creativity and purpose. Between people who may come from very different backgrounds but are all searching for meaning, beauty, truth, and belonging in some way.

I hope listeners leave feeling inspired, challenged, encouraged, and reminded that art still has the power to move us toward deeper understanding of ourselves and one another.

Because at the end of the day, I believe beautiful art should not just entertain us.

It should invite us into conversation.