Ep. 36: Taking the lead, with Chloe Misseldine

Spotlight, pressure, and the power of example. In this episode of The Leadership Dance, Chloe Misseldine, Principal Dancer at American Ballet Theatre, talks about her surprise promotion on stage after her debut as Odette/Odile at The Met, how she prepares for the technical and emotional demands of taking on leading roles in Swan Lake, Giselle, and Sylvia, and what she’s learned about artistry, setbacks, and confidence along the way. She also reflects on growing up with her mother (Yan Chen) who danced with ABT, the difficulties of performing through injury, being named to Forbes 30 Under 30, and the importance of staying humble — especially when younger dancers are watching. Timestamps: 0:00 Episode Trailer 0:59 Introduction to Chloe Misseldine 2:11 Promotion to Principal Dancer at ABT 4:35 Training for Swan Lake Performance 7:17 Chloe’s Childhood Influences 10:18 Growing Up with a Ballet Mom at ABT 14:42 Favorite Roles and Most Memorable Performances 19:28 Overcoming Setbacks on the Path to Becoming Principal Dancer 26:44 What Still Challenges Chloe in Dance 27:44 Forbes 30 Under 30 29:20 Defining Leadership On and Off the Stage 31:09 How her Chinese Background Shapes her Identity 33:56 Joy Outside of Ballet 38:20 Closing Thoughts 💡 Key Takeaways: ◦ Kindness is a form of leadership. How you treat people matters, whether that’s in the studio, at the stage door, or online. ◦ Do the work so you can trust yourself. Preparation allows you to step on stage with freedom instead of fear. ◦ Confidence grows over time. Sticking to the basics, staying humble, and trusting the process builds lasting strength. Photo Credits: Emma Zordan, HELI, Laura Sukowatey, LK Studio and Jennifer Curry Wingrove, Nir Arieli, Quinn Wharton, Rosalie O'Connor Connect with Chloe: Instagram:   / chloemisseldine   _____________ ▶️ Subscribe to the channel:    / @theleadershipdancepodcast   ✅ Sign up for newsletter: https://theleadershipdance.substack.c... 👉 Links to listen and connect: https://linktr.ee/theleadershipdance Music from InAudio: https://inaudio.org/ "Catwalk Queen"