This is Will Loftis on creativity as an act of service, finding your personal "in," and the Adele approach to sustainable artistry!

In this episode, visionary choreographer and creative director Will Loftis—fresh off his Hollywood Music Video Award nomination for Ariana Grande's "Yes, And?" and his work on the iconic Wicked films—shares wisdom from the biggest stages in entertainment. Will, whose movement has brought life to everything from Met Gala performances to major film musicals, explores:

• The personal "in" philosophy—how working with director John Chu on Wicked taught him that every project demands finding your authentic connection point, why saying no becomes easier when you can't find that spark, and the difference between taking work because you can versus taking work because you must

• The Adele model of artistry—embracing cycles of intense creative output followed by intentional retreat, why "you can miss me" creates space for deeper work, and how thinking about desired lifestyle rather than just career goals shapes better creative decisions

• Creativity as pure service—his revelation that at its truest form, creative work channels something bigger than individual ego, how this perspective removes the pressure of ownership over outcomes, and why remembering "it's never really your thing" liberates artists from perfectionist paralysis

Will Loftis represents the intersection of commercial success and artistic integrity in today's entertainment landscape. Whether you're navigating creative career choices, seeking sustainable approaches to high-pressure industries, or exploring the spiritual dimensions of artistic collaboration, this conversation offers profound insights into building a meaningful creative life while working at the highest levels.

Watch the full episode here.

Show Notes:

Connect with Will on IG

Listen to Mandy’s episode

Listen to Jillian’s episode

Listen to Tyce’s episode

Listen to Comfort’s episode

Listen to the In The Heights episode

Listen to Marty’s episode

Listen to the Seaweed Sisters episode

Watch "Rather Important" by The Seaweed Sisters

Watch “Yes, And”

Watch “Cold Hearted Snake”

This is Taya Lee on assistant choreography, the clarity of movement, and learning while earning in the dance industry!

In this episode, professional dancer and choreographer Taya Lee takes us from her San Diego roots to assisting on Beyoncé's Cowboy Carter Tour and dancing with Doechii. Taya, whose credits span MTV Movie & TV Awards performances to standing in for Missy Elliott, explores:

• The evolution of assistant choreography—how stepping into rooms with legends like Tyrik Patterson means being ready when "choreographer" in your title suddenly demands you create those crucial 8 counts, and learning that every creative partnership requires different skills, from demonstration to invention

• Movement as language—why dancing "like water" isn't enough if you're unclear, and her revelation that fluid movement without punctuation creates run-on sentences that leave both performer and audience breathless

• The myth of complete preparation—discovering that the industry teaches you while paying you, breaking down the assumption that you need to know everything before stepping into professional spaces, and finding freedom in learning through doing rather than studying from the sidelines

Taya Lee represents the new generation of dance artists championing work that amplifies Black womxn experiences. Whether you're interested in the behind-the-scenes reality of major tours, the philosophy of clear movement communication, or navigating creative careers where expertise develops through practice, this conversation offers profound insights into growing as an artist while staying true to your values.

Watch the full episode here.

Show Notes:

Connect with Taya on IG

Listen to How Do Dancers Make Money

For more DANA

For coaching with me, join the WTMM COMMUNITY

To donate to WTMM through our Fiscal Sponsor, THE DANCE RESOURCE CENTER

To shop for GOODIES & SERVIES

Watch and Subscribe on YOUTUBE

Stay connected with us on IG and TikTok