From Professional Dancer To Pop Sugar Fitness And Boxing Instructor—Deja Riley Talks About The Struggle To “Make It,” Confidence, And Taking Risks To Find Purpose!
In this episode the sisters sit down with Deja Riley: boxing instructor and movement coach, host of Dance Fit Sugar on @popsugarfitness and the creator of #DanceOutofTheBox which combines shadowboxing and dance in a rhythmic cardio workout! During this conversation, Deja gets real about her experience moving to LA to make it as a professional dancer, juggling multiple jobs, struggling to pay rent in a small apartment with her 2 sisters – eventually booking gigs for stars like Lady Gaga, Beyonce, Trey Songz, Katie Perry, JLo and more. She discusses the toll of this physically and emotionally tough career, what it did to her confidence and the moment she decided it was time to leave her “dream career” behind in favor of a more purposeful path—one that is now perfectly aligned with who she is and how she wants to live! In this episode, Deja also shares: The ups and downs of her 10+ years as a dancer The wisdom and support provided by her family and husband, which shaped her work ethic & helped her stay strong despite intense periods of stress Her top strategies for mental strength and focus Her favorite mantras & methods of self-care Tips for finding exercise you love Tips for fitness fashion + advice for dancing in heels! Her work today with pop sugar and the creation of her own dance fitness routine Plus: quick fire questions! Her personal mission, favorite inspiring IG account & what she’s excited about this year! Resources: Deja’s Instagram: @dejariley Deja’s Website: Dance Fit Sugar on Pop Sugar Deja’s “IG account to follow:” Mike Posner Solo 2.0 Instagram: @solo2.0podcast Email us! Solo2.0podcast@gmail.com Jess’s Instagram: @bodyblissbyjess Ryan’s Instagram: @ryeburch Your Hormone Balance website @yourhormonebalance