Misty Copeland is the truest definition of the trailblazer, most notably making history as the first Black woman to be promoted to a Principal dancer at American Ballet Theatre. After 25 years with the company, she took her final bow last fall...and yet her life’s work has only just begun.
Through the Misty Copeland Foundation and her role on the boards of Lincoln Center and other arts institutions, Misty today has a seat at the table to drive change and create a more inclusive future for all dancers. She joins us to share how, and takes us through her singular career journey.
0:00 - Introduction
2:18 - Healing from Hip Replacement
3:40 - Growing Up In Survival Mode
6:50 - Discovering Dance at 13
10:33 - My First Ballet Teacher Changed My Life
16:30 - Pursuing a Career & American Ballet Theatre
23:15 - Moving to New York at 17
24:24 - Do Dancers Get Career Advice?
29:12 - Injured The First Year at ABT
33:14 - How Prince Became Her Champion
37:32 - Pancaking Ballet Shoes
40:29 - Advocation For Yourself
43:46 - Promoted To Principle Dancer
52:32 - Taking a Final Bow
58:01 - Advice For Future Trailblazers
55:07 - The Misty Copeland Foundation & Retired Life
58:40 - Advice For Future Trailblazers
1:00:03 - Would You Rather?
On Sali: Argent Double Breasted Blazer, Tank, and Single Pleat Trouser
On Misty: Argent Slim Blouse and Soho Trouser
Hosted by Sali Christeson @salichristeson
Produced by Gina Marinelli @ginaalilbit
Edited by Ryan Woldoff @c__biz
Theme Song by Karina DePiano @sheplaysdepiano & Melanie Nyema @melanienyema
Recorded at Podstream Studio @podstreamstudio
