Dita Von Teese: The Untold Story Behind Burlesque, Playboy & Reinventing Femininity

What does it take to create an entirely new career that nobody believes is possible? In this captivating conversation, Sarah Grynberg sits down with the world's most iconic burlesque performer, Dita Von Teese, to explore the discipline, creativity and unwavering self-belief that transformed a young woman obsessed with vintage glamour into an international icon. Dita opens up about her childhood fascination with old Hollywood, how Playboy became the platform that launched her global career, the surprising phone call from Taylor Swift, and why she refuses to let criticism define her. She also shares her beauty philosophy, daily routines, meditation practice, and the mindset that has allowed her to remain authentic in an industry built on image. This isn't just a conversation about burlesque—it's about building a life that's completely your own. In this episode, you'll learn: How Dita created a career that had never existed before The surprising history and art of burlesque How Playboy transformed her career The story behind her iconic martini glass act What Taylor Swift said when she invited Dita to collaborate Her philosophy on confidence, beauty and ageing The wellness habits that keep her performing around the world How she handles criticism and public judgment Why gratitude has been the foundation of her extraordinary life If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe, leave a review and share it with someone who needs this conversation. 00:00 – Introduction 01:34 – Welcome and introducing Dita 01:39 – Childhood, vintage glamour & working in a lingerie store 03:50 – Why she transformed herself with black hair 06:11 – Doing her own hair and makeup before every show 08:40 – What burlesque actually is 10:41 – From strip clubs to becoming a global performer 11:20 – How Playboy changed her life and career 13:07 – The story behind the iconic martini glass 14:45 – Performing for the world's biggest luxury brands 16:18 – The unexpected phone call from Taylor Swift 20:11 – Bringing the Nocturnal Tour to Australia 22:56 – Fitness, nutrition & staying stage ready 25:58 – Dita's beauty routine and skincare secrets 28:30 – Meditation and protecting her mental health 31:13 – Handling criticism and life in the public eye 35:12 – What a Life of Greatness means to Dita Von Teese Listen to the full episode of A Life Of Greatness: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast... Purchase Sarah's book: https://bit.ly/sarahgrynberg-book Purchase Sarah's Kid's Meditation: https://bit.ly/3kfVJMh Follow Sarah for more wisdom and inspiration: Website https://sarahgrynberg.com/ Instagram:   / sarahgrynberg   TikTok   / sarahgrynberg   Facebook   / sarahgrynberg   Twitter   / sarahgrynberg