Cassandra Trenary is a force on and off stage. A principal dancer with American Ballet Theatre, she’s known for her emotional depth and creative fearlessness in both classical and contemporary work. She’s starred in Giselle, Romeo & Juliet, and Sleeping Beauty, originated roles with Twyla Tharp and Sir Wayne McGregor, and recently debuted her own photography exhibit, Embodied, capturing the raw in-between moments of life backstage. Soon, she’ll step into a new role—joining Vienna State Ballet under the direction of Alessandra Ferri.
“So much of our job as dancers is to embody other people’s stories. Sometimes, the hardest part is learning how to embody ourselves again.”
When Cassandra shared the quote above on The Leadership Dance, I felt it in my bones. I’ve lived that experience—just in a different kind of costume.
For years, I led in the way I thought I was supposed to. I checked every box: high-performing marketer, multitasking mom, devoted daughter of Chinese immigrants. But it wasn’t until I started embracing all the parts of who I am that I became the kind of leader people actually wanted to follow.
Authenticity isn’t a liability—it’s a leadership advantage.
And the best leaders—like the best dancers—know that growth often comes from risk, not comfort.
🎧 In this episode, you’ll hear:
How major setbacks became creative turning points
What it takes to say yes to reinvention
How discipline, freedom, and curiosity fuel artistry
Three big takeaways:
Major setbacks can become catalysts for unexpected growth and new passions.
Nothing is forever, but the career has a timeline—so why not go for everything?
Balancing discipline with freedom and play can unlock deeper creativity and fulfillment.
✴️ What happens when you stop performing—and start leading as yourself?
🎧 Tune in to Cassandra’s full story → Listen Now
Until next time, keep dancing!
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