The Brainy Ballerina Podcast
Caitlin Sloan
108. How the Pandemic Unexpectedly Launched Kendall Lademann's Dance Career
SummaryIn this episode of The Brainy Ballerina Podcast, host Caitlin Sloan sits down with professional dancer Kendall Lademann to discuss her unconventional path to a dance career. The conversation explores how Lademann’s professional journey was unexpectedly shaped by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led her to pivot from university studies to training with Merrick Dance. Lademann reflects on the transition from student to company member, the importance of resilience, and how her work ethic was forged through both rigorous training and supportive mentorship. The discussion highlights the challenges and rewards of a professional dance life, including the realities of performing, navigating company closures, and the necessity of being adaptable when faced with sudden career changes. Lademann shares her experiences with transitioning to the Lexington Ballet and emphasizes the value of community, kindness, and professionalism in such a small industry. She offers heartfelt advice to aspiring dancers, encouraging them to fearlessly put themselves out there and to always be mindful of how they treat those around them. This episode serves as an inspiring look at how dedication and openness to new paths can lead to a fulfilling career.
Updated Jun 25, 2026
About This Episode
In this episode of The Brainy Ballerina Podcast, I’m joined by professional dancer (and one of my former students!) Kendall Lademann for a full-circle conversation on the unexpected twists and turns that have shaped her dance career.
We dive into Kendall’s transition from student to professional at Mareck Dance, including what it was like dancing alongside former teachers and how that environment helped her grow as both an artist and an adult.
We also talk about how Kendall moved forward with her dance career after Mareck Dance unexpectedly folded, finding new opportunities at Lexington Ballet.
Kendall is a true testament to the fact that dance careers never travel in a straight line. She shares so much thoughtful advice for aspiring professional dancers about taking risks, handling rejection, and treating people with kindness in the small world of dance.
Key “Pointes” in this Episode:
- How the teachers, choreographers and directors Kendall has worked with have grown her into the artist she is today
- How the pandemic unexpectedly launched her professional dance career
- Going from dancing as a student in “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” to dancing the title role
- Navigating the sudden closure of Mareck Dance and finding a new path
- Moving away from home and starting fresh with Lexington Ballet
- Unique performance experiences including dancing in a distillery, performing in a music video, and starring as Charlie Chaplin in “A Charlie Chaplin Christmas” with Lexington Ballet
- Kendall’s passion for adaptive dance through Danceability and why teaching became one of the most meaningful parts of her career
Connect with Kendall
INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/kendall_lademann
Links & Resources:
SHOP MSeam Apparel: https://mseamapparel.com/ (use code BRAINY25 at checkout for 25% off all items)
SHOP ORZA: www.orzabrand.com (use code BRAINYBALLERINA for 10% off)
Let’s connect!
My WEBSITE: thebrainyballerina.com
INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/thebrainyballerina
Questions/comments? Email me at caitlin@thebrainyballerina.com
Listen to The Brainy Ballerina Podcast in Podtastic
For listeners, not advertisers
Related Podcasts
All podcast names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Podcasts listed on Podtastic are publicly available shows distributed via RSS. Podtastic does not endorse nor is endorsed by any podcast or podcast creator listed in this directory.