Let us know what you enjoy about the show! What happens when a 12-year-old decides to stop living a lie and pursue her true passion? For Broadway dancer Valeria Yamin, it was the moment that changed everything. In this captivating conversation, Valeria takes us on her journey from Venezuela to Broadway, revealing the pivotal moments that shaped her remarkable career. From tearfully confessing to her father that she wanted to be a performer (not an eye doctor), to facing rejection from her dream school only to find her way there through an unexpected encounter – Valeria's story is a masterclass in resilience and authenticity. Currently performing in the original Broadway cast of "Just In Time" after four seasons as a Radio City Rockette, Valeria speaks candidly about battling impostor syndrome, particularly when transitioning from dance to singing. "I don't have as much singing experience and training as I do with my dancing," she admits. "When I'm singing, I feel a lack of tools." Yet rather than letting this hold her back, she embraced vulnerability and gradual growth, showing how even accomplished performers continue to evolve. The conversation takes a thoughtful turn as Valeria, now 25, reflects on gaining perspective in her career – moving from being "on the train" of non-stop performing to seeing her life from a "bird's eye view." This shift allows her to appreciate her journey while considering what colors and textures she wants to add next. Her approach to setbacks is equally enlightening: "Not now, maybe not ever, but not now, but maybe someday." Throughout the episode, Valeria's definition of living in the moment shines through – being "out of your head and in the world." Her story reminds us that authentic living requires courage, resilience, and the willingness to embrace both successes and redirections as part of our growth. Have you been putting your true passions on hold? Listen to this episode and find the courage to follow your heart, just as Valeria did when she decided to live her truth. If you are enjoying the show please subscribe, share and review! Word of mouth is incredibly impactful and your support is much appreciated! Support the show 🌟✨📚 ** Buy 'The Places Where There Are Spaces: Cultivating A Life of Creative Possibilities '** 📚✨🌟 Dive into a world where spontaneity leads to creativity and discover personal essays that inspire with journal space to reflect. Click the link below to grab your copy today and embark on a journey of self-discovery and unexpected joys! 🌈👇 🔗 Purchase Your Copy Here: https://a.co/d/2UlsmYC 🌟 **Interested in finding out more about working with Lisa Hopkins? Want to share your feedback or be considered as a guest on the show?** 🔗 Visit Wide Open Stages https://www.wideopenstages.com 📸 **Follow Lisa on Instagram:** @wideopenstages https://www.instagram.com/wideopenstages/ 💖 ** SUPPORT THE SHOW :** [Buy Me a Coffee] https://www.buymeacoffee.com/STOPTIME 🎵 **STOPTIME Theme Music by Philip David Stern** 🔗 [Listen on Spotify] https://open.spotify.com/artist/57A87Um5vok0uEtM8vWpKM?si=JOx7r1iVSbqAHezG4PjiPg
