#Intimacycoordinator #Intimacychoreographer #CircusArts #Consent #Liveperformance 

For More Info:

https://www.rjintimacy.com

On this episode of the Circuspreneur Podcast, host Shenea Stiletto interviews Rebecca Johannsen who is an Intimacy Coordinator and educator specializing in performer safety, consent, and communication across live and filmed entertainment — including circus, theatre, and dance. With a Ph.D. in theatre and decades of experience as a producer, director, and performer, Rebecca brings a collaborative and trauma-informed approach to creating safer rehearsal and performance spaces. She leads the Intimacy Choreography for Live Performance certification program through the Intimacy Professionals Association and has become a trusted advocate for artists working in high-risk and movement-based disciplines. Her work bridges the worlds of performance, psychology, and education — ensuring that creative expression and performer well-being go hand in hand.

Embodying Trust: Intimacy in Modern Circus with Rebecca Johannsen- Circuspreneur Podcast Ep.108

#VegasVarietyCircusFestival #Circus #LasVegasEvents #CircuspreneurPodcast

In this episode of the Circuspreneur Podcast, we celebrate the return of the Vegas Variety Circus Festival, happening October 22–27 in Las Vegas.

Following the success of its 2024 debut, the Festival promises an even more extraordinary showcase this year:

 * Awe-inspiring circus performances ✨
 * Innovative and daring new acts 🎭
 * Stunning visuals and international artistry 🌍

But beyond the spectacle, the Festival stands for something bigger:

 * Global cultural exchange – bringing together artists and audiences from every corner of the world.
 * Community and economic impact – enriching Las Vegas’ cultural landscape and driving tourism.
 * Social responsibility – for every ticket sold, a donation supports transformative programs for foster children.

🌟 The Visionaries Behind the Festival

Maxim Popazov – Founder & Entrepreneur

Maxim Popazov carries forward the legacy of the Popazov-Koch Russian circus dynasty, a family tradition spanning more than 150 years and seven generations. A globally recognized hand-balancing artist, Maxim is celebrated for three unique performances:

 * Hand Balancing on a Pedestal, inspired by Anatoly Zalevsky.
 * The Advocate, a book-themed act choreographed by Ruslan Ganeev.
 * Chair Balancing, directed by Valentin Gneushev.

Maxim has performed on the world’s most prestigious stages, including Circus Krone (Munich), Monte Carlo International Circus Festival, Swiss National Circus Knie, Royal Theater Carré (Amsterdam), World Christmas Circus (Stuttgart), and Friedrichstadt-Palast (Berlin). His artistry also captivated millions on America’s Got Talent, where all four judges voted him through to the Judge Cuts.

Currently based in Las Vegas, Maxim has been a celebrated original cast member of “Absinthe” at Caesars Palace since 2011. His vision of creating an international circus festival came to life in 2024 with the launch of the Vegas Variety Circus Festival, featuring a distinguished jury including Dr. Alain Frère, co-founder of the Monte Carlo International Circus Festival.

Julia Makarova – Artistic Director & Co-Founder

Julia Makarova is a fourth-generation circus artist whose aerial performances have earned her international acclaim. She has appeared on television around the world, with her most memorable moment on Britain’s Got Talent, where Simon Cowell declared her “the best aerialist he had ever seen.”

Julia has won top honors at some of the most prestigious international festivals, including the Festival Internacional del Circ Elefant d’Or (Spain), International Circus Festival of Italy Latina, and the Chimelong Hengqin International Circus City Festival (China).

As Artistic Director, Julia combines her heritage and global achievements with a passion for innovation. She leads a team of talented artists who bring the Festival’s productions to life, ensuring every performance embodies both tradition and modern creativity.

🎟️ Why It Matters

The Vegas Variety Circus Festival is not just a show—it’s a movement. By celebrating circus as both heritage and innovation, Maxim and Julia are creating an event that inspires wonder, builds community, and strengthens Las Vegas as the world’s entertainment capital.

👉 Learn More & Get Tickets: https://vegasvarietycircusfestival.com
👉 Subscribe for more Circuspreneur insights.

Vegas Variety Circus Festival with Julia Makarova & Maxim Popazov- Circuspreneur Podcast Ep.107

#Circusagreements #Circuspartnerships #Circuspreneur #CircusBiz

Partnerships are the lifeblood of many circus acts, but what happens when things don’t go as planned? In this episode of the Circuspreneur Podcast, host Shenea Stiletto dives into the importance of partnership agreements for circus professionals. From protecting creative work to ensuring financial fairness, these agreements act as a safety net for both business and artistry.

What You’ll Learn

 * Why partnership agreements are essential in the circus industry
 * Common challenges: injuries, relocations, financial disputes, and creative conflicts
 * Key protections every agreement should include:
   * Roles & responsibilities
   * Income & expense sharing
   * Intellectual property rights
   * Exit and buyout strategies
 * Real-world scenarios where agreements prevent chaos and preserve trust

Why It Matters

Without clear agreements, partnerships can unravel, leading to lost income, broken trust, and disputes over creative ownership. With agreements in place, performers can focus on what matters most—artistry, collaboration, and building lasting careers.

Call to Action

Subscribe to the Circuspreneur Podcast for more insights on balancing creativity and business in the circus world. Don’t forget to like, comment, and share this episode to support fellow circus professionals.



Circus Partnership Agreements- Circuspreneur Podcast 

#WorldAcro #Acrobatics #HallofFame #CircusLegends #Gymnastics

The Circuspreneur podcast, hosted by Shenea Stiletto, went live at the prestigious World Acro Society Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony held in Las Vegas. This special episode featured exclusive interviews with the 2025 legends being inducted from around the globe, celebrating their remarkable achievements and contributions to the world of acrobatics and related disciplines.

Learn more about the Legends Achievements:

https://worldacro.com/gallery-of-legends-hall-of-fame/

World Acro Youtube Page:

https://www.youtube.com/@worldacro/videos

2025 Hall of Fame Inductees-

Leslie Bush – Diving Legend

Recognized for groundbreaking achievements in diving, Leslie Bush’s career has inspired generations of athletes with her skill, dedication, and sportsmanship.

Ron Galimore – Lifetime Achievement Award

Honored for a lifetime of dedication to the advancement of acrobatics and gymnastics, Ron Galimore’s influence spans decades, shaping the future of the sport.

Tatiana Gutsu – Artistic Gymnastics Legend

A trailblazer in artistic gymnastics, Tatiana Gutsu’s performances and competitive spirit have left an indelible mark on the sport worldwide.

Stacie Hansen – Charlie Pond Service Award

Awarded for exceptional service and commitment to the acrobatic community, Stacie Hansen’s contributions have elevated the standards of support and organization within the field.

Steven Gluckstein – Tumbling/Trampoline Legend

Celebrated for excellence in tumbling and trampoline, Steven Gluckstein’s athleticism and achievements have set new benchmarks in these disciplines.

Michael Rodrigues & Kristin Allen – Acrobatic Gymnastics Legends

This dynamic duo has redefined acrobatic gymnastics through their innovative routines, teamwork, and championship titles, inspiring athletes worldwide.

Gary Hedrick – Action Sports Legend

A pioneer in action sports, Gary Hedrick’s fearless approach and dedication have expanded the boundaries of what is possible in acrobatic action sports.

Dr. Jerry Michael Cline – Golden Achievement Award

Recognized for outstanding contributions and lifelong commitment to the advancement of gymnastics, Dr. Jerry Michael Cline’s impact is felt across the community.

Michel Rios & Medhi Rios (Rios Brothers) – Professional Acrobats

The Rios Brothers have captivated audiences globally with their extraordinary acrobatic performances, showcasing artistry, strength,and innovation.

World Acro Society Hall of Fame Ceremony- Circuspreneur Podcast Live in Las Vegas Ep.106

#ComedyLegend #CircusComedy #AcrobaticLegend #Mensgymnastics 

WAS Hall of Fame Video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=19WJkb8recs

Attend World Acrobatics Society Congress 2025-

https://worldacro.com

On this episode of the Circuspreneur Podcast, host Shenea Stiletto interviews gymnastics and circus acrobatic comedy legend Bobby Dixon. Bobby began his entertainment career in water shows, sports shows, and half-time shows, performing comedy trampoline, tumbling, comedy P-bars, hand-balancing, comedy diving & high-diving, and even comedy flying trapeze. He was the “Head Clown” every year for the annual Dolphin Show at the University of Iowa. After the final Olympic Trials in 1972, Bobby studied comedy acrobatics with Iowa gymnastics legend, Larry Griswold, and began performing Larry’s comedy act with a 3 meter diving board and a trampoline in 1973.

Bob started out performing in gala shows and circuses. His first contract outside the United States was in a South African circus in 1974. From Africa he went to a season of amusement parks in Scandinavia and then to a Spanish circus for a couple of years. After that, he began expanding his possibilities to include other venues. From 1999 he also performed several visual comedy acts with his much funnier companion, best friend, and personal sports massage therapist for the past 40 years… his wonderful Dutch wife Anoushka.

Bobby is an Acrobatic Legend and is now Associate Editor of ACROnews for the World Acrobatics Society, which has its upcoming congress in Las Vegas this coming September 5-7th and is open to the circus public.

From Still Rings to The Circus Ring with Bobby Dixon- Circuspreneur Podcast Ep.105

#RougeShow #PoleArtist #SexiestShow #LasVegas 

On this episode of the Circuspreneur Podcast, host Shenea Stiletto interviews Pole Artist and Rouge Show at the Strat original cast member, Yasilda Slonova. She was a finalist on So You Think You Can Dance Ukraine, received 4 YESES on Das Super Talent, was recognized with a special jury prize at the Monte Carlo 36th Festival with Circus Bingo, and has appeared on the acclaimed French television show " Patrick Sebastien." 

 Yasilda Slonova is an internationally awarded rhythmic gymnast, choreographer, and pole artist with over 15 years of experience in circus, dance, and stage performance. She was recognized for pioneering a pole act using light tissue as a unique visual and technical element.

"Rouge Sexy Show"   with Yasilda Slonova- Circuspreneur Podcast Ep.104

#Circussmirkus #YouthCircus #CircusCamp #Circusaccident

Contact Senator Blumenthal's office and urge him to support the SafeArt/SafeCircus Act:

https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/contact/write-to-senator-blumenthal

In this episode of the Circuspreneur Podcast, host Shenea Stiletto dives into a serious topic: preventable accidents in the circus industry. While the circus is known for its thrills and daring feats, behind the scenes, safety is a constant concern. Many accidents that make headlines could have been avoided with the right precautions. In this episode, Shenea Stiletto will explore the culture that leads to circus accidents, and why the need for increased safety and regulations within the industry is urgent. 



Preventable Circus Accidents in the Industry "Smirkus" - Circuspreneur Podcast 

#MentalHealth #CircusHealth #Research #CircusStudy 



In this episode of the Circuspreneur Podcast, host Shenea Stiletto interviews Dr. Melanie Stuckey, a researcher in human performance and social innovation at HUPR (Human Potential Research Centre) affiliated with the National Circus School in Montreal. Her main focus is on factors affecting human performance through the lens of inclusive, holistic well-being alongside social innovation to support the flourishing of individuals and communities. Melanie is the co-editor-in-chief of the Circus: Arts, Life, & Sciences journal, member of the Surveillance of Injuries for Research on Circus (SIRC) working group, and member of the Canadian College Research Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion Community of Practice Planning Committee. She is also a former pole dance and circus artist and coach.



Mental Health Research in Circus Arts with Dr. Melanie Stuckey - Circuspreneur Podcast Ep.103

#Mongoliancontortion #Contortionconvention #Circuspreneur #Contortion 

On this episode of the Circuspreneur Podcast, host Shenea Stiletto interviews founder of the Mongolian Contortion Convention Erdenechimeg Jamiyan Janov also known as “ Angelique Janov. “

Angelique studied the art of contortion at the Mongolian State Circus, and became a professional contortionist in 1970. With over fifty years of experience, she made history by creating and performing the groundbreaking “Double Marinelli” Trick. She served as the coach and contortion expert for the Cirque Du Soleil show “O” in Las Vegas from 1998-2020. She has also received numerous awards from international circus festivals, such as the Queen of Contortion title, and the Merited Actress of Mongolia. In 2023, Angelique founded the Mongolian Contortion Convention, which will take place later this fall of 2025.

Drawing on decades of teaching experience, Angelique authored the book Supple. The book covers the history and unique features of Mongolian contortion, and for the first- time provides a step-by-step instructions on key techniques. Angelique has also been a Board member of the Mongolian Contortion Association since 2016.

Mongolian Contortion Convention 2025 with Angelique Janov- Circuspreneur Podcast Ep.102

#Diddytrial #Diddycourtcase #Abuseofpower #Performingarts #Entertainment 

On this episode of the Circuspreneur Podcast, host Shenea Stiletto discusses the recent verdict in the Diddy Trial, and how it speaks to the systematic abuses of power that are prevalent in the entertainment/performing arts industry, and how these often go unchecked. Shenea also highlights the need for more transparency and accountability within these industries. 

The Diddy Verdict - Circuspreneur Podcast 

Two-Time World Acrobaticgymnastics Champion, USA Gymnastics Hall of Famer, Cirque Du Soleil artist and RAINN Advocate Shenea Stiletto discusses the Circus Arts Industry Lifestyle, Innovation within the Circus Arts, and explores circus and acrobatic gymnastics competitive life as she has lived it from past to current and what the future may bring. Each episode of Circuspreneur Podcast, Shenea Stiletto will bring you insight through her own experiences with the addition of special guests as well.

Circuspreneur Podcast 

Circuspreneur Podcast 's Show

Two-Time World Acrobaticgymnastics Champion and  Cirque Du Soleil artist, discusses the Circus Arts Industry Lifestyle.

Circuspreneur Podcast

Shows