Dancers On Purpose

001: Kaley Jensen & Mindset to Movement

• Kelly Kaba • Episode 1

Share episode

Use Left/Right to seek, Home/End to jump to start or end. Hold shift to jump forward or backward.

0:00 | 1:01:14

Meet Kaley Jensen  and her Mindset to Movement program!

Her inspiring dance journey includes her comeback from a tragic injury and how she's compiled all that she's learned into a mindset and movement program helping dancers take the next step, grab the next opportunity, renew their passion, and/or improve their movement foundations.

Kaley is a professional dancer, dance teacher (both in studios and on college campus), Pilates instructor, wife, and mama. Follow her on Instagram @mindsettomove and @kaleyclaire, and learn more about her at www.kaleyclaire.com.

For the Mindset to Movement program, follow the link in her @mindsettomove Instagram bio for a FREE Mini Course! When registering for the full program, tell Kaley that Dancers On Purpose sent you, and give her the code DOP for a Special Bonus!

Please like, subscribe, share, and write a review to tell us what you loved!
Follow us on Instagram @dancersonpurpose
Check out our inspirational affirmation cards at www.dancersonpurpose.com

Welcome to your Dancers on Purpose podcast. If you're in the dance world and have a message on your heart to bring to life through your work, or if you want to meet these kinds of dancers and companies, then you're in the right place. If you're also looking for success tips on how to dance sustainably, then this is the podcast for you. I'm your host, Kelly Kaba, a dancer, mom, activist, and passionate encourager of people and their dreams. Join me with your inspiration keeper, which is whatever device you use to take notes with and get ready for this episode of Dancers on Purpose. welcome everyone to the very first episode of your Dancers On Purpose Podcast. We are so excited to have Kaley Jensen here as our first guest. Kaley is a wife, a mom, a professional dancer. She's a teacher in both studios and at college campus. She also has an amazing program called Mindset to Movement, which we will dive into probably near the second half of the show. So welcome, Kaley. We are so happy to have you here.

Kaley Jensen

Thank you so much, Kelly. I totally got teary when you introduced just this whole process. It's been amazing for me to see this come from dream to fruition. And I'm just really, really honored to be here. So thank you so much for this opportunity.

Kelly Kaba

Oh, well, thank you. I forgot to mention in the intro that, Pilates as well, that you're a certified Pilates instructor is there anything else I missed that you want to tell us about?

Kaley Jensen

No, I think we'll get into it. You know, in the question, it'll naturally arise. so no worries there.

Kelly Kaba

All right. I always want to do you justice when I introduce you. So tell us your dance journey. How did it all start? Why did you start dancing? Just give us an overview and we'll dive into the deeper parts.

Kaley Jensen

Okay. So I remember from the time I was wanting to be, that's like on stage, right? That we being in the spotlight. I I got remem my family, even as a young going out on the dance fl starting to dance and just loving it and feeling the music. And so whenever I could get that feeling, it's like, I chased that feeling of, a performance of spotlight. and so that's where it started, I would say. just this natural, honestly, just love for it. And even trying several different things like, you know, tennis and swimming, I would always come back to dance. I'd always be dancing, like. When I was supposed to be playing tennis, I would just be dancing on the side. So I think I just knew that that's what I, it was just. My whole love from the very, very beginning and decided to just to take it and run with it. ended up majoring in college and upon graduation. I wasn't I wasn't sure how I wanted to, pursue it per se, but I knew I, I couldn't imagine my life without it. Right? So I decided to pursue my master's right away. And, in the middle of that, I had a. breaking point accident where it was taken from me for a bit But I realized that was the one thing that I had to come back to I had to do everything in my power to get back to what I loved and Although it could have set me back in a lot of ways and I was you know fearful in the beginning that it would it actually set me on an entire different path to Really understand my body, how to heal from the inside out my mind, my body, my spirit. And, um, along that path to just having some really, really incredible mentors to help me, uh, navigate these transitions and these turns and these times when I, I almost. You know, I, I questioned like, Oh, should I pivot? Should I default to something that's quote smart? Or should I do this or that? But ultimately I'm so grateful. I stuck it through and stayed the course. And, you know, now I'll fast forward to now. I am just really, really grateful to be pursuing my professional career. Still alongside motherhood and be helping other dancers to really. Hone into their why and to not only just push through those setbacks, but how to really turn those into something that can catapult them and make them stronger and be able to help them make the impact that they were born for because at the end of the day, we're all born for a purpose for, um, a very unique. Something and just to help, help them realize that and walk in it and help others. We're all here to help each other. So, um, I am so grateful to, to be in that today. So that

Kelly Kaba

that was beautiful. You end with like, everyone has a purpose. do you see why we love her audience? So it sounds like, um, dance for you, it was really an internal thing and it was really like, you just felt alive, you felt like, that's where you just felt the most yourself, yeah.

Kaley Jensen

Yes, and I'm glad that you that you went back to that because there was a real shift. I remember it started even before my accident, really, when I was in my undergrad from, oh, this is for me to, oh, this is so much more than just about me. Right? I think when we're young. Like, okay, it's naturally a little bit more self centered and self focused and the enjoyment and the feeling, which is totally still valid and something that is beautifully part of that. But my eyes were opened when I began to do things like touring to these, just parts of the, parts of the country and schools that, that didn't have, dance easily accessible. And they just appreciated it so much. And it was so Um, it was so moving to them and so inspiring and they just, they just loved it. They were the best audiences. And then I really, it like my, my love for it, my appreciation went deeper. I was like, wow, this is so much more than just me. It's, um, the talent I've been blessed with to impact them and to inspire them and to move them, um, really the gift. That dance has to do that because it's, it's connects on a much deeper level and when we pour everything that we have in it, um, I really, I truly believe it. It's just, it's the greatest gift we can, we can give.

Kelly Kaba

That is so beautiful. I love that. So you really had a, um, I probably really motivated and inspired you to just continue pursuing it. Cause you're like this gift that I thought was kind of just for me. Now I realize it's really for other people and it can really make a difference in people's lives. Yeah.

Kaley Jensen

Yes, absolutely. Yes. It's so much deeper. It's so much more. it's that universal language too, right? That's like beyond words. It really is something that connects us. it breaks barriers and I taught a dance appreciation course, um, earlier this year, actually, and it really helped me kind of refresh and understand just. The universal benefits from cognitive developmental and making dance accessible from no matter what age and just the beauties of it helped me be able to not only refresh for my own, but be able to share with a group of students who. Maybe had little to no exposure, but really by the end be like, this is just as necessary as math and science. Like they really came to this understanding and appreciation of it as well.

Kelly Kaba

Yeah. And that's, too, that's so much of our mission and purpose here at Dancers On Purpose is because we believe that dance does something It has a message, it has a purpose, it can bring change, it, it connects people. Listen to our trailer. If you haven't yet, because so many of the things that Kaley's mentioned in here is like. Again, that's why we love her.

Kaley Jensen

Well, and that's, that's what's connected us, you know, it just, if it wasn't for this if it wasn't for this beautiful art form we would have never connected and just to create those relationships is something that I know that we both. Very much treasure and value in our lives. And so I, I'm just, I'm so grateful for Kelly and, and for this.

Kelly Kaba

Oh, I am too. Let's dive into your accident. Can we talk a little bit more about that? And then you talked about a transition and changing trajectories a little bit and.

Kaley Jensen

Absolutely, so I was in the middle of my. Pursuing my master's of fine art to the University of Arizona. I just married my husband. We were headed to a wedding, um, of our very close friends, you know, three weeks later after ours, and that's when it happened, there was a drunk driver on the road and it was 10 30 PM. he was in his car. Passed out, um, just a really scary situation. We hit him at 70 miles an hour and spun out into traffic. And the first thing I remember is just waking up in the bed of this truck in a lot of pain and a lot of confusion. like what, what just happened? What just happened? And, I just remember so much fear, honestly. In that ambulance, because I didn't know, I didn't know if I was paralyzed or not. I didn't know. And I kept asking, am I paralyzed? Am I paralyzed? And I remember the, whoever was my ambulance, like, he was really funny and really, like, gave me a sense of calm and, Yeah, it just is so crazy to think back to that time. But, I remember getting the diagnosis after all the testing and, it was the initial shock of like, oh, wow. Okay. This summer is not going to look the way that I planned. Like, I had all these things. Like, I was going to do this residency that had been paid for in San Francisco and I was going to train and I was going to choreograph like, This was in line with my plans, right? Like I was gonna do a whole nother year of grad school and then really be ready to audition and take my career to the next level. and then all of a sudden it was like, no, you're not, your summer is going to look real different. But I had to think back to, I think this, mentality That had been instilled in me from, from such a young age from one of my favorite teachers who poured into me and it was the idea that Kaley, it doesn't matter what happens because this was in a moment where I had made a slip on stage or something in a solo and I thought it was like, well, everyone saw and this was a mistake and she was like, I will never forget like, she just took my head and she was like, Kaley, Kaley. It doesn't matter that that happened. It's the way that you came back from it. it's the comeback, you know? And so that idea and kind of theme in my life of like, okay, well, how am I going to come back from this? You know, how am I going to get stronger? How many, how am I going to use this time this summer to really heal? and so then it became this process of. Doing everything in my power and I had had conversations to with people with similar injuries, really trying to get all of the information I could and, because the diagnosis was, a fracture. Luckily, it wasn't as severe. I didn't need surgery, but I was in a full time brace and I had to have help. I couldn't live with my husband in the beginning because we were. In an internship. So I had to live with my in laws with my mother in law who would help me shower and get dressed. It was very humbling. We got very, very close over being like, okay, here it is. But it was a beautiful situation because I had to be still. And I think as dancers, it's really hard for us to rest. It's really hard for us to give our bodies what we actually need. And we think like, no, just keep going, grind harder. And I think it was may have, may have been the first time in my life that I really took that much time off truly because dance never stops. Is it, it's like summer and starting for the right. So it was that time I had all I could do was walk. And boy, did I walk, I walked with my feet in the grass and then became this journey right of physical therapy and I remember bringing my, uh, PT videos I was like, I'm not trying to get back to walking. I'm trying to get back to this. Like, you see that penche? Yeah, you see those leaps? Yes, this is what I need to be able to do again. So, build me a plan, thank you. And he was like, okay. But he said, Kaley, you have to approach this like you are eight years old again. Learning how to dance. From the foundations. I was like, really? Eight? Like, that's a lot of years back. Really? Eight years old? And he said, yeah. but then it was this beautiful process of like re learning and rebuilding and renewing all of my foundations. And so, you know, fast forward, I do my training. I was. Very, very dedicated to those exercises, as I mentioned before, you know, talking to others who had kind of fallen off and had pain now. And I said, well, did you do your exercises still? And they're like, no, not really. I'm like, okay, well, then I'm going to do everything in my power that I need to do to get back. So then it was this journey of PT. I began to really understand my Pilates. I had this, introduction to Pilates and this understanding of what my body was capable of and how to, how to really equipped it with the tools to be able to thrive, to be able to dance again and build those blocks in. And I really think because of that. I was able to come back stronger that next year, right? So took that summer to recover that fall. It was also very humbling to have have to need assistance in my classes. I still couldn't fully demonstrate, you know, the movements and sit on the sidelines instead of auditioning for these pieces. I had to just sit and observe, but there was a lot of power and learning in that. but I think for me, yeah. A really, really memorable experience from that was later on that fall about November, as I was getting back into classes, as I could approach dance again, one of my teachers said, Kaley, I was originally signed up to, assist with this piece this, Christopher Wieldon piece that they brought in and were going to present in February. And she said, you know, we had you on to just be the assistant for this, but she's like, you're, you're doing incredibly. Like you've, I don't, I don't even know how, but we, we want to put you in this piece. And I was just shocked. the accident happened June. I was back the next year performing in that piece in February and. It was just, um, incredible. And I don't, I truly don't think, I don't know if I would have had that same opportunity without it. Like, I think it really gave me this challenge and sense of like, I'm going to get it back. Like, I'm going to do everything that I can. And then. I think coming back with that was just such a beautiful opportunity and I remember her saying, like, yeah, you just just, um, you know, sharing her thoughts and how, just proud of me that she was to witness that come back and so, yeah, from there it, it became that piece and then, graduated, grad school and moved on from that. So, yeah, that's the whole accident story, but I'll, I'll give a little bit there

Kelly Kaba

that is, that is incredible. Like, I've never heard the full story and just to see that it still tears you up at that emotion and like that. It's such a moving part of your story. Um, thank you so much for sharing that. I love too, how you mentioned that part of how you kind of got through it was from a dance teacher in the past who said, it's about the breakthrough. It's about what do you do on the other side? It's about the comeback. Um, so it was like, it was, it was already prepared. It was already set up that you had this experience in your past to help you through this. What else? How did you keep your mindset strong? That was from, you said, June too, I mean, three weeks after your wedding, right? And then to be with your in laws, like, you still have a really close relationship.

Kaley Jensen

I really do. Actually, it's really interesting because my mother in law is someone that is. and I hope she listens to this because she is a living angel on this earth. Like she is so patient and calm and when I could have had a lot of distress and a lot of anxiety over the future and just unsurety, like, she was just that sense of calm for me. She was that sense of like, just. Absolute, angel in my life at the time. And so, yeah, I think we, we have a really special relationship and I think I'm, I'm really grateful for that experience for that.

Kelly Kaba

That's amazing. So that was one of the strong things that kept you through one, like the words of your dance teacher, your mother in law, what else helped you stay mentally, like in the game, this was, this was at least what, five, six months until you could really start doing anything, but how did you stay mentally? In the game to get better.

Kaley Jensen

That's a really great question. Kelly. I remember from the very beginning, instead of focusing on gosh, I'm not in San Francisco. I'm not doing this because I not going to lie. I had those days where, especially when I could go back to New Mexico after a while when I, um, could. Increase a little bit like we I was in New Mexico for a while. So after my in laws, I can actually go be with Mitchell for the remainder of the summer. And gosh, those were, those were a little bit dark days of like, I'm stuck here with no 1 in this crappy apartment complex that like, I should be here. Like, it's really easy for us to be like. This is where I was supposed to be. So why am I here? So I really had to remind myself of what can I still do. I'm so grateful that I can walk. I'm so grateful. I'm getting gratitude first and foremost, like laying that foundation of like, say, I'm grateful that. I'm alive, that I'm not paralyzed, that I can walk in the grass, that the sun is shining. I actually focus a lot that time, uh, writing thank you notes from my wedding, like live, I think just living in this, like gratitude and like what I'm able to do and celebrating just these small little milestones, like, Oh, I can add in this exercise. Great. You know, and looking forward to the future and then ultimately just trusting that that this was all gonna all get to pan out, you know, but believe me, you there were those moments of, like, having to really remind myself and really strengthen, but it was a daily Fortitude, I would say.

Kelly Kaba

I feel like all of that kind of lead into your program, but oh, when you got back, and being like, okay, I'm just going to be an assistant and then, having this, even bigger role gifted to you that, like, a few months before you're like, I don't even, is it even possible? Give me a little more about that.

Kaley Jensen

Yeah, yeah, Those are such vivid days. And you know what's interesting too? I remember when I was getting back into class, having, like, it wasn't even my back anymore. Like, I feel like that I had a pretty good handle on. so within the accident too, I, Not broke by toe, but severely bruised it. Like, I, I wanted to say, I, I swear it was broken because it was so, it was so painful. And so you can imagine getting back into pointe shoes. That was the what you think it's like, just a toe, right? It became like a really, really painful element. And I remember there was 1 day I'm like journaling. In the, in the student gym and I'm like, I don't understand my back is starting to really feel better, but now it's my toe, you know, so it's like my stinking toe and I really need it and I was going like all the way across campus, getting this care, getting like scraped up. I just had some scar tissue and damage and so it was like, even when you think you're progressing, you're still going to have those little things, but I think for me, it was hanging on to the fact that I could. Get into class again, and after having that time off, having to have to have those funds, I think it was like an even stronger, just more renewed appreciation. So, being in class, it's almost like, maybe I can only do this much. Right? But. I was so in it and I was so grateful to just be moving my body, but I almost got so much more, right? Because it can be really easy when everything's fine. You're just in the groove, just kind of go through the motions because I was so, I was so sure that that's what I wanted. I was so unbelievably sure. Like it would just was like, I, I, I love this so much that I think I got more out of it in that time.

Kelly Kaba

Yeah, there was so much more purpose because it had been taken more purpose. Yes. I keep hearing gratitude and staying present. And those are, principles for any part of your life. Like, that's what. And I think that's what makes you successful is when you have gratitude and you can stay present. I just feel like that's what moves us forward. some things that I'm learning and working on myself as well And again, it's a daily practice too. so I'm eight months pregnant right now. and I have two kiddos already and some days are better than others. Happy days. I'm like. How can it be my life, but then when, I get a good night's rest and the next day I'm like, okay, that was just a crappy day that doesn't have to be every day. So, it's just really it's not getting lost in where you're at of like, oh, I've had this accident and all this PP or today is really depressing or my kids are crazy today or I'm crazy today. but it's like, okay, there's another moment, like, might be tomorrow, it might be a week down the road, but nothing lasts forever.

Kaley Jensen

with that too, having a really clear vision of where you're going. That's something I learned a little bit later, but I think having at least a hope and a real clear picture of where I'm headed can get you a little bit out of the weeds of the fields of the now, like, you know what? This is where I'm going. And that is so motivating. And like the clarity of what's ahead. And sadly, I feel like When I had these conversations, a lot of people are like, Oh, I haven't even thought about it. I don't know what my future looks like. I'm like, what do you mean? What do you mean? And it's really hard to get through those times when you don't know where you're headed. When that's unclear, it can feel scary, you know?

Kelly Kaba

Yeah. There's like so much. I just want to dive in so deep here. Um, but tell me a little about Pilates. You said that was really helpful in getting you through the back injury. give us the rundown because now you teach it. and you're still dancing. So it's obviously beneficial for dancers.

Kaley Jensen

I obviously love it so, so much. when I discovered this is intentional, intentional movement. I just, I love it because the principles of Pilates cross over into. All of your movement. So not just dancing, but, um, you're cross training, you're running, you're walking, you're breathing, like the importance of breath and being able to center and have that awareness of your body in relationship to the space and movements of your spine, especially with having a back injury, like keeping that healthy and being able to really move effectively. With strength, with power, with stamina, with ease, a lot of these principles, just became my foundation. And when I went on to do the full course and scope of training, I feel like it's given me so much as a dancer myself to pull from as well as a teacher, as well as a choreographer. just so many tools and it's such a gift when you know how to sustain your body when you know how to train it correctly and recover and warm up properly. Like these are all gifts and tools to just have and to share and that's why I love it so much.

Kelly Kaba

you mentioned the PT said pretend like you're eight years old again. Do you feel that with the PT, with Learning to do all these movements again, and then adding Pilates in and when you come back in the studio, like, did you really feel different? Did you feel that you move differently? I'm sure you were a lot more conscious in your movement, but was there anything that changed like, Oh, I've been doing this wrong my whole life of dancing

Kaley Jensen

Oh, that's such a good question. I'm trying to think back to when I was in class, like how different did I feel? I would say a hundred percent. I felt more aware, just like you said, more intentional, more connected I think for me. The big switch was from going harder and just doing more. I was always that, just to paint you a picture, I was always that dancer when the teacher is giving combination, I'm like over here stretching and doing other stuff because I have to just like. More, more, more. But it dialed me back and made me more careful, having this injury now. just the awareness, the intention behind my movement, and actually the importance of being still and just all those other factors that play into like basically working smarter and not just harder, you know? Yeah. Which we need as dancers, yes. We're just like more and more classes. I have found and I will tell you to Kelly that being a mom. I'm blessed to be in the studio still quite a bit, but not nearly as much as say, you know, pre pregnancy when it was like, 6 days a week hours and hours a day. But the time I am. In and between my other cross training regimen, I feel in some ways stronger in the studio and just all around that I have ever in my life. Like post baby, it's actually incredible when you realize what your body does need. It doesn't need more classes. You just need to supplement correctly. You need to know what works for your goals and your training. That's a beautiful place to be in is like, Oh, yeah. Okay, more is not better. You know,

Kelly Kaba

there. There is actually balance in dance?

Kaley Jensen

There can be exactly. And that's what I am so passionate. I'm helping dancers really find, it's going to look different to every person. 1st of all, you know, there is no perfect balance. It's always a work in progress, but, you can find it. You can find it and you can know how to, Prioritize and be flexible and adapt so that you just feel good.

Kelly Kaba

I love that. like you said, it's, it looks different for every person and it doesn't look the same for your whole life. Yes. You have things come and go. Like you were at this stage of real life and now, you know, you got married and you had a baby or you're in a different kind of company or you move across the country or across the world, like balance looks different all the time I love that balance itself and I don't remember where I learned this, but we think it's been, but balance is 10 million little tiny movements all the time that make it look like they're standing down and make it look like you're, just suspended in time. So it. It's little adjustments, sometimes it means a big change, but and reflection, I think is a really big part of that. you know, when you had to rest, you had a lot of time for that reflection and it's so amazing that life gives you what you need, not necessarily what you think you want, but what you need. I love that. phrase life is working for you.

Kaley Jensen

Yes. I'm loving you mentioned reflection though, because that was also a huge part about that time is I pulled out all the old journals, all the old things that I had kept of, you know, important quotes, or just these moments that helped get me through because it reminds you that you've been through hard things. Everyone has these hard times physically, mentally, emotionally, like. Raise your hand if you haven't, like, we're all going hard, hard things in our life, hard things. And, you've probably walked through at least one of those. You know, and, I think if you can keep that perspective of like, Oh, I did this once and will do this again, making that decision and reminding yourself of those truths is so powerful going back to those, moments of reflection. A hundred thousand percent

Kelly Kaba

and then realizing that you're not alone through these things sure it may not look a hundred percent exactly the situation but the feelings of pain and of i'm lost and confusion and what's next We all are human beings, and we all have those feelings, so that's, I think, something else that's really consolation because when you feel you're alone again, it's just, I always say we're not made to be islands, if we didn't need other human beings, we'd be on an island by ourselves, so, tell me then, we kind of glossed over Pilates, maybe we should just do a fuller episode on that, but, I want to learn more, hear more about Mindset2Movement. How did all of this, you know, your history, your past, how did you create Mindset2Movement? What's it about? Give us the rundown. Yes,

Kaley Jensen

yes, yes, yes. Well, the great year of 2020, you know, where everything shut down and there was no in person stuff for a little bit. it was what can I do during this time? How can I continue my passion and be able to teach? You know, given the circumstances we're in and another funny, interesting note was, I think the year previous I was working for a studio here, which I still love. He's one of my mentors here. I used to teach for this, Great woman. Her name is Margo for ballet burn. It was her own creation of basically her rehab process process through her injury. Really cool. You should connect with her. She's awesome. And so she built this whole studio and like concept, right? So I was teaching for her at the time and she taught me so much. but Kurt said to me, he goes, you know, Kaley. You can probably do your own thing one day. You probably create your own. And I was like,

Kelly Kaba

huh, maybe I

Kaley Jensen

will. And I think of that still, because I'm like, maybe he saw something and maybe he like, maybe he called it. I don't know. It's just, just kind of a funny moment that I remember. But anyways, when I decided to do this, it was this, app program That had launched, you know, and it kind of exploded and I just saw this opportunity to create something saw this opportunity to create something of my own and I thought, why not? I got the time these days. Let's make it. Let's make it cool. You know, so this like six week challenge was born. I launched it and, I remember talking with a good friend, Meredith, who's still. As one of my dear friends today, and, she helped me brainstorm even like the concept. I'm like something with, you know, mindset and movement and like, you know, just those moments of coming up with the name and coming up with the concepts and basically taking like everything that I feel like. I would have wanted to have, you know, how do I build this and how do I bring all the elements together? Because I think there's, there's pieces of it out there. There's great information as far as, you know, these mindset concepts and different movement training and personal training, as well as, this career. Kind of tangible aspect that came later, so it started with that right? And I ran a couple different challenges and programs until I had my son took a little break with that. I was like, you know, I'll just focus on in person for now. But then I remember about 6 months after. I had him feeling like, okay, I need to come back to this. I need to keep developing. I need to keep growing. I just felt this very, very strong pull that more and more dancers needed this and more and more people needed this. So decided to relaunch and, kind of restructure and reformat in a way that would be. More digestible for dancers more, you know, just a work in progress, right? And really kind of tie in this, this tangible element of, career, like, networking and really being able to create opportunities because, in essence, when you're in alignment. in your mind and your body, it's such a natural flow to then be presented with opportunities that are in alignment. and I strongly know that when you're clear on who you are and where you're going, it's like, that's that's where it all comes from. Right? And then that's going to dictate a lot of decisions in your life regarding career. And so how do we tie all the elements together? Right. And so I'm excited to be, you know, continually evolving and pulling in this, aspect of nutrition as well, because that's something that I've been listening to as I speak to these dancers of like, okay, like I struggle with this. I have these 14 hour days legitimately, like, how am I supposed to get enough feel my body? So. Excited to pull that piece in too and just keep listening and keep evolving, and, you know, let it grow and I have hopes to be able to continue to build a team and to make impact and be able to help as many dancers, As I can and bring us together, too,

Kelly Kaba

be your target dancer. Who's your target kind of person that

Kaley Jensen

that's a good question. I feel like there's 3 kind of different stages that I would say, um, and I'm excited to build more on this kind of. Pre professional track this year. Um, and that is that, that pre professional that is in that really vulnerable stage. Maybe like middle school, high school, they're, they love it, but they just don't know where they want to take it. It's overwhelming the different directions of like, where do I go with this? Or what are my options? Right? It's not just. Performing in a company or teaching like there's so much you can do and I don't want dancers to feel limited, right? So that's the first category second category. I would say is, you know dancer in the professional realm that feels like okay I'm burning out. How much longer can I sustain this? Do I need to pivot? Ooh, I don't know right like I've worked so hard, but I'm not ready to quit yet, but what is that thing that I feel like it has been worth it? And I feel like I'm in the right place and I'm on the right path, right? Then category three would be that kind of post professional, maybe you stepped away from a bit. You've had a baby, you had a couple of kids, you taking some time off and you realize. That part of you is missing, you know, you want to restore that passion and be able to come back to that part of you that is calling. So, yeah, I would say those because I have been in all 3 of those stages legitimately, you know, like, I felt all of the fields of, almost burning out as a kid and then having those milestones within my professional and kind of. Now the stage of life as well.

Kelly Kaba

Yeah, that's awesome. Three different levels, three different places. And I can tell you, Kaley is awesome we'll get you all her handles and connect with her at the end. when you reach out, she is just so genuine and so caring so enthusiastic and like, the cutest I've ever loved her videos that I've watched. Like, she's just adorable. She really cares so much for, for people and for dancers specifically and helping them find their path and their growth and their vision. And, again, like she's a cheerleader and an encourager and she has all of the skills and the knowledge and the experience to be like, yeah, you do this. this is an option. Try this. and her program builds an amazing base. what I love so much about your program. Is the mindset piece again this is dancers on purpose as well we get so much technique we get so much movement and choreography and skills and tricks and dance isn't just that especially when you want to take it to a certain level like there is so much that happens up here between your ears that you need to learn about to understand again, that thing, that's on top of our shoulders. that is what I love so much. So she, did a choreography, masterclass the other day, like how to pick up choreography. And again, she didn't just start with, here's all the technical, it was mindset, mindset. And I just was like, yes, yes. So much mindset. so target audience, we kind of hit that when somebody starts your program, what does it look like? I know that you have a program you're running now and that you're kind of shifting, changing, starting something new in January. If the old ones still running, tell us what that looks like and if it's not, it's just a new thing. And then tell us about the new thing.

Kaley Jensen

Yes. Yes. Yes. so this coming year, we're integrating, I want to offer a special bundle and kind of combining, an idea from the past, but bringing it again, evolving and connecting and, Making it even greater. I feel like it's, it's the greatest culmination. I get so excited talking about it. So, basically starting you in. Yes, the core offer is still running of the base, like that foundational building block program, but then there's this new year's edition that is going to integrate this nutrition piece and really. Act as more of that month challenge to get the habits to get like the carving and the routine. Because a lot of people, what I'm hearing is like, oh, my gosh, I just need to get into better routine. Right? like routine and time management again, going back to that balance. Right? So if we can restore and rebuild, it's all these R word themes. That's the new year. Rebuild, renew, realign ideas. so that you can kick off that month, feel amazing and not only feel amazing for the month, but be able to continue that to the remainder of the year. So it really sets you up for success. Like you're building those habits cause. If you can't sustain it, then what's the point? Right. But that you're feeling so amazing that it doesn't even become like checkboxes, that it just becomes a part of you. So then you can walk into the core offer even, even more ready and even more, Just fast tracked to your version of success and your, transformation, what I love about this program is everybody walks in for a slightly different reason. And I was just talking to 1 of our members last night and she's like, you know, I just didn't even know how much, like, I would feel different even after 8 weeks, you know, so I just love, I love hearing that. And I live for. The big moments, but also all the little wins in between are like, Hey, this little tweak shift of just believing that I could be open and then boom, you know, it's like, it's so crazy to me. And I'm, I'm literally here for all of it, you know, just as you said, it truly makes me so excited because I remember those people in my life that stepped in as mentors and we're like, Hey, let me help you. And they didn't have to, but for me, it made all the difference. Made all the difference and knowing that I was supported and knowing that I could have that sense of clarity because it can be overwhelming. Sometimes we know where we need to go, but we're just like, uh, but all the little steps in between, I can just help you get there faster. Why not, you know, we were designed for

Kelly Kaba

and in a more healthy manner. Yes. Yes. What else? You mentioned that you almost had burnout as a kid. Uh, tell me a little bit about that. You didn't even mention that before.

Kaley Jensen

Yes, I did. Yeah. So there's a few different times that I had to come back to my why, that I had to come back to, okay, this is something that I really love, right? And the first of which I remember is actually in Within high school, I actually had to switch studios for a moment because there was some really, I mean, if I had to describe it, it just was like the movie Mean Girls, like times 10. It was, it was that, like the kind of bullying that went on and, stuff being said on the sidelines. Like, you know, I hope this girl. Breaks her foot or her ankles. Not okay. So I can take her part. Like, just really vindictive, like very, very unhealthy environment and, um, could have quit, but decided to pivot, go to another, you know, healthier place. So, but I think that's where a lot of dancers can just get caught, right? Like they burn out of dance. I'm like, no, it's not dance. It's the people. It's the environment. It's all the external factors, unfortunately, that sometimes come along the competition that like, it's not dance, but that's my biggest thing that I'm like, no, dance itself is so beautiful. It's so whole. It's so perfect. Okay, it's these other pressures and everything else. I'm like, come back to that. You have to keep holding on to that

Kelly Kaba

How do we change that? How do we change that environment

Kaley Jensen

Well, 1st of all, I mean, it comes from within yourself a lot of it is being strong enough knowing how to handle and equip yourself. 1st and foremost, so that you can. Be that strong person, because I will tell you too, even within the professional environment, I've been around the healthiest environments or the people that weren't so positive, but I held my own. And it's amazing to see, like, how those relationships, like, just a genuine, Want to understand those people. I think at the end of the day and like be kind how that able to change a lot for me. Right. And actually, create some close relationships when I thought from the outside of this person just hates me, you know, but, uh, kill them with kindness. Right. Seriously. It's a thing. So, first and foremost, that, but then. Actually, knowing where your boundaries are so that if you do need to make a change, if you do need to leave the company, if it's really not right, like, you don't use that instead of, saying, oh, I'm just going to burn out and change. or stay there like you make a switch because there are healthy environments. There are help. Like, there is a place for you. Don't feel like you have to abandon your love because you're in a bad situation, but you need to know where you deserve to be and where your boundaries are so. Understanding that first and foremost, and, having the courage to make a change, but staying true to your love and who you are.

Kelly Kaba

Yeah. So knowing yourself and that again, again, like the two sides of it, there's the dancer with him who, and what do you know that you can know, okay, do I keep in this environment or can I change it? And just like, like you said, knowing that there's a possibility, like knowing that something else is out there, that place is there for you. Something we'd love to create here at Dancers On Purpose is some kind of directory where companies and studios, they have their vision and their purpose. And like, this is the kind of person that really fits in here or who we're looking for, who we need so that dancers can go there and just do this search. Like, that's a big dream. We'll see what happens with that. But, um, it's coming. Yeah. That's why we're doing these interviews too, is because. We want dancers to know what is out there, what's possible have people they can make connections with. And that was some of my struggle too as a dancer was after college, I was like, how do I find a company that I I love both their movement and the topics and themes that they danced about because usually I would be like, I was dancing with the place where I loved their movement, but like some of the themes I was like, I don't really want to dance about this. It doesn't connect with me. And there were others that like, I love their themes and their topics, but I was like, movement's not, not exciting to me, like not my style or like it just didn't connect. So for me, I think it was How do I find both? And I feel like that's kind of what, why Dances On Purpose started as well. Part of that in this podcast is helping other dancers who have been in that spot.

Kaley Jensen

Right. I think so many people can relate to that, Kelly, like finding that alignment and the fact that you took the leap to create it. That's another thing I was going to say is like, if you don't find it, maybe you need to create it. Exactly. Maybe you create it. Like that's your responsibility, because I guarantee you are not alone in that feeling.

Kelly Kaba

I love to like not taking things personally. curiosity, kindness, and not taking things personally when you're in an environment that's not the best fit. It doesn't gel.

Kaley Jensen

Oh, yeah. And this is, this is parenting tip as well. wanted to share one more thing with not taking things personally because. I think people will be able to relate to this, another time I was about to burn out for real was in college well before the accident and I remember I cared so deeply about what my, director at the time, like what she, the casting essentially. and herself, she was a very like. You never knew how she was going to behave. one day it was great. Next day wasn't great. And so then therefore my emotions were up and down and all around. And it was like, I had no surety. It was all based on her affirmation, which was so unhealthy, you know, which was, which can be so, easy to get as dancers, we need to fit the mold, we need to get the part, you know, it's like all of these. Um, If we don't get it, then, you know, and then we tie our worth to that, which can get really dicey. And so I had to step away to really like, okay, wait, why do I do this? my value as a person is. unchangeable no matter what, you know, and that was a major shift for me as well. So getting more dancers to understand that it's not about the trophies and the casting and the, you know, it's more, and you have to be confident in your own beyond any title, beyond any role.

Kelly Kaba

It's like keeping up with the Joneses. Like you buy things you don't want and don't need to impress people you don't like and who don't like you.

Kaley Jensen

Right. Exactly. It's like, come back to your love

Kelly Kaba

and fascinating too, what you just said about the dance teacher and one day they were on and one day they were off. And you know, Jekyll and I and you as a student were like, you are my guide. And I'm locked now because you're lost. Yes. Such parallels to parenting. My goodness. I think a lot of students as well, they come to the studio and whether it's dance or whether it's show school, like that teacher becomes another parent or a replacement parent or like, again, sometimes, so often what we're missing at home, we find in the sport or, you know, the music instrument that we play the band Yeah, we could talk about parenting a lot, but I think it brings dance teachers, that responsibility and that privilege again, like, am I in the right place to teach? Um, well, that's going on bunny trails, but

Kaley Jensen

no, but that's, I mean, honestly, for me, that just made like a real light bulb moment. Because I realized in my own situation at home, my parents, went through a pretty bad divorce and I, I had that lack of. Well, individually, they're, they're amazing, right? But there was a little bit of lack and insecurity. it's even more apparent to me. of how important that studio time and those teachers were in my life for the, for the better or for the worst. So, wow, that was just like. Full circle moment for me to realize it was an even bigger deal for me because that was something that I lacked at home. Whoa. Crazy. Crazy.

Kelly Kaba

I think one more thing too, is like, when you know who you are, when you are grounded, you are, you are present, you're secure in yourself. That's when you can be more others. again, you don't take it personally, but You can be that calm in the midst of the storm and whether that's just for you or whether someone else actually sees that and is attracted to that and is like, can I be your friend? Like, can you help me? Or how do you do that? and maybe that's somewhat of your journey as well. Like, you've been through so much and come so far and you know what you want and who you are and sure there might still be days again that it's like, What am I doing? What am I doing this? but it doesn't take you that long to come back and then to be that guy you might for others like I think that that's a lot of what you do and who you are with mindset to movement as well. So two more things as we're getting close to the hour. Tell me a little bit about transition as a mama. it was during COVID that you had your baby so you weren't dancing anyways in the studio.

Kaley Jensen

No, after COVID 2021. So we were coming out of the depths. I can't remember days anymore. I know, right? It's very weird when you think about it. but transition into motherhood. Is that what you mean? Yeah. Yeah. So come back to dance. Oh my goodness. Well, you know, it's interesting because during pregnancy, I fully was prepared to be like, maybe I'm just going to be done. Like, maybe I, like laughed so hard. how could I ever think I was going to like, he was like, you're going to be done. Yeah. Right. It was like, maybe I'm just going to be home. I laughed because I was very active during my pregnancy. I was really sick at the beginning, but I pushed through it because I didn't feel any better sitting around. So I just was like, I'm going to go take class. I'm going to teach. I was pretty crazy, but in a safe way. But I was just like, I'll get it out of my system, almost. before I can't anymore. And maybe, maybe I'll just be, like, done. Here I am with Barrett, just to paint the picture. He's in his little sling, like, I'm an adult. I'm not, like, doing bar here. He's my baby. So, but that being said, I had no idea what I wanted. I just, I didn't know. It was honestly a big question mark, but I think I was okay with it. I was like, I'm not going to put any pressures I'm just going to see how I feel, you know, like I'm just literally just gonna see what comes. I had zero plans, which is like, so not like me, but I think I just surrendered to this idea of like, I'll figure it out when he gets here cause you just don't know, you don't know. And that's the other thing too. Stepping into motherhood. I want less dancers to feel scared and feel like that's the end of the chapter for them, because there's so much more on the other side. And I strongly believe that when you just follow those little inklings of like, okay, this is what's right. coming back to that self trust, you're going to know, like, you're going to take those steps. It's going to feel good. You keep going, or maybe it doesn't see you dial back. and people will come into your life that will also create these little opportunities, you know? So as I got back in, I really started out with just like getting my like body back in the studio of like, okay, this is a new feeling. Okay, well, once I had a baby here and I'm going to try and figure this out, but it was very much like I took my time of getting back in class for me. And then, you know, starting to integrate teaching or starting these opportunities. And then 1 of my good, uh, friends and previous clients actually. She, uh, put this buzz in my ear for, well, maybe you should contact, you know, this, there's these couple gals that have this college here and also have this dance company. Like, it might be really great for the season that you're in. And anyways, 1 thing led to another. And so it's just been this, like. Okay. Wow. And, this evolution of back into things as well as, growth in the program and just taking it step by step, but then just trusting that like, okay. And I am so, so grateful to feel like. I've been able to do both, like, I just really, I couldn't picture, a more handpicked situation, you know, to where I feel like, okay, I can still be present as a mom and be fully involved, but also pursue this love and continue to grow in that and help others, like, it's legitimately just such just a big blessing in my life and, um. I'm so grateful. I feel like that's just God's plan. He's so perfect, but there's all this little timing and people and the way he lays that out. and I think it really helped to see that. I remember glimpses of that over the years of like meeting dancers. Like I met a couple back in 2017. 1 was a mom of 5 kids, 1 other 3 kids that I did this project with. So just kind of having those little encounters, like, not neglecting any of those small moments because. Truly, it's all those little Small learnings. It's like we expect these big answers like, okay, I'm going to figure it all out. No, it becomes a little bit over time, you know, so I have these small counters with these dance mothers and I was like, wait, you're still dancing your company. You have childcare for your dance company and you like, Oh yeah, I know. I almost moved to Kansas when I heard that. I was like, so, I think just the possibility, right. I've like, Oh, this might be possible. So to then see it come to fruition and. it's a reality here on this side.

Kelly Kaba

Yeah, again, like, patience, staying open, trusting the process, that's what I heard. And then again, like, life, life set you up for this, like, it prepared you for this, it connected you with the things you needed, or the people you need to hear, the messages you need to hear, and now you're in this space, and you're like, oh, it is possible to dance when I have a child, it is possible to have the balance. You can have it all. You can have it all. you're making me cry almost now. Like, you said you needed tissues for sniffles, I realize now I should probably bring tissues to every interview because I'm a crier, and when people cry, or when things they say move me, like, Oh, same, same. And learning to embrace that, too, we both have talked about, like, it's a good thing when we feel, and it's to be celebrated. So if anyone feels like they're extra sensitive out there, don't be embrace it. And it's it's 1 of your superpowers. I am all about people crying. I think because you have emotion because you're feeling something. Yes, absolutely. If you just numb it and keep it in, we don't want that. Okay. So where can people find you? Because obviously after this interview, they're going to be like, she's amazing. probably, where can they find you? How do they, how do they connect with you?

Kaley Jensen

Yes, so you can find me on the I. G. Um, I can put my personal account. I would love to connect and honestly hear more about your journey and your goals and where you want to take this as well as, where you might be struggling, where you feel like you're stuck and how I can potentially just. I'll be on on your journey and bring you into our community. Of course, because Kelly is such a, she's such a wonderful part of that process as well. So, I can put my personal handle as well as the mindset to move account. But my personal 1 is Kaley Claire type that out. and then mindset to move is the other account. So feel free to message me on there.

Kelly Kaba

Perfect. So 2 places on Instagram. Also, there's your website, Kaley Claire dot com, which. I was looking at it last night and I just the pictures in it. Just I could look at pictures for days. So I, I love it. There's also an updated link that you could get an idea and a more comprehensive context a mini course. That is a free resource that gives you just a little bit closer idea of. what this is, and again, more of that context. Perfect. Do you have the link off the top of your head? If not, we'll put it in the show notes for sure. Not on the top of my head, but it it is in my bio. Okay, perfect. So Mindset2Move, Katie Claire, both on Instagram. It's all there. And we'll put all that in the show notes. Um, assuming I know how to do that since this is our first interview. Final thing for our interview. So, a dancer on purpose is someone who has a message to share. What is your message that you share to dance?

Kaley Jensen

My message is to always come back. To your why and to your passion and trust, trust that because ultimately, you know, and ultimately you have that impact to make and that's to share and gift that only you can bring you have such a unique, Skill set and experience that nobody else has, like that is truly your superpower. So trust that and do everything you can to come back to and to build that continually build that belief and trust in yourself.

Kelly Kaba

Thank you so much, Kaley. That was so beautiful. Thank you for being here for being our first guest. I'm so excited to get this message out to the world, to dancers, to dance aficionados.

Kaley Jensen

Woohoo! Thank you so much, Kelly.

Kelly Kaba

Thank you so much for listening to our very first episode of the Dancers on Purpose podcast. We have to apologize for any technical glitches, for the volume levels. We definitely are working to get better as we go along. But if you love this episode, please subscribe, please share, and please go check out Kaylee and support her in Mindset2Movement. The best place to find her is on Instagram at Mindset2Move. If anything she said resonated with you, if you're a dancer who's wondering what your next step should be, or you're trying to get that next big opportunity, If you've lost your passion or you're trying to come back to it after a break, then connect with Kaylee and you will be so glad you did. As we recorded this interview a while ago, we got an update from her on her program. The New Year's Habit Setting piece was so successful that she's adding it as a regular part of the Mindset to Movement program. So you didn't miss out. And if you tell her that Dancers On Purpose sent you, and give her the promo code D. O. P., she'll have a special bonus for you when you sign up for her program. We can't wait to see you for our next podcast episode all about chiropractic care. Until then, please come interact with us on Instagram at Dancers On Purpose and check out our inspirational affirmation cards on dancersonpurpose. com.