Today we’d like to introduce you to Linda Chaney.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
How Evolution Dance Studio came about started with a memory from my childhood in elementary school.
I used to dance in our basement with friends from the neighborhood. We would create choreography, have little competitions between ourselves, and simply enjoy genuine fun and happiness through dance. Sometimes we would move upstairs or even outside onto the front porch, but no matter where we were, we were always dancing, creating, and expressing ourselves freely.
As time went on, the boys in the neighborhood noticed how much fun we were having and wanted to join in and learn the skills we were practicing. They would be outside in the street throwing footballs, running plays, and enjoying their own games, but one day they asked us, “If we teach you how to play football, will you teach us how to dance like you do?”
Of course, the answer was yes.
That moment stayed with me because it showed me how dance could bring people together, create joy, build confidence, and form community. Those childhood memories became the foundation and inspiration behind starting Evolution Dance Studio — a place where people of all ages and backgrounds can feel connected, empowered, and free to express themselves through movement.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It’s not that it has been smooth. Learning to put the puzzle together for a dance studio collectively in the community with people and instructors can take some time to organize.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Professionally, I am the owner and founder of Evolution Dance Studio, where I specialize in dance education, youth development, wellness, and community engagement. My background is rooted in movement, creativity, and creating spaces where people feel seen, encouraged, and empowered through dance and wellness.
Over the years, I’ve worked with children, teens, adults, instructors, and families from many different backgrounds. What I’m most passionate about is helping people build confidence, express themselves freely, and reconnect with joy through movement. My work goes beyond teaching choreography; it’s about creating experiences, mentorship, and a positive environment where people can grow emotionally, mentally, and physically.
I’m also building my wellness platform, “Wellness with Linda,” which connects movement, self-care, healing, and healthy living. My goal is to show people that wellness is not just about fitness; it’s about balance, community, mindset, and learning to pour back into yourself.
What I’m most proud of is building a studio and platform that people genuinely feel connected to. I’ve created a welcoming atmosphere where families feel comfortable, students feel supported, and instructors feel inspired. Many people tell me that the energy inside the studio feels uplifting, safe, and motivating, and that means everything to me.
What sets me apart is that I lead with heart, authenticity, and purpose. I truly care about the people connected to my brand and community. I don’t just want people to come take a class — I want them to leave feeling better than when they walked in. My vision has always been bigger than dance; it’s about impacting lives, building confidence, inspiring wellness, and creating a lasting community through movement.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
I believe networking is really about building genuine relationships and connections with people over time. For me, what has worked best is being authentic, staying consistent, and creating real community connections instead of focusing only on transactions or opportunities.
Throughout my journey with Evolution Dance Studio, I’ve learned that some of the best relationships come naturally through showing up, supporting others, collaborating, and being passionate about what you do. I’ve connected with instructors, parents, creatives, business owners, and community members simply through conversation, shared goals, and creating positive experiences.
I also think it’s important to stay open to learning from people around you. Mentorship does not always have to look traditional. Sometimes guidance comes through everyday conversations, observing others’ experiences, or connecting with people who inspire you in different ways.
My advice would be to lead with authenticity, treat people well, and build relationships that are meaningful and genuine. Long-term connections are built through trust, consistency, and positive energy.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.evolutiondances.com/
- Instagram: evolution_dancestudio
- Facebook: Linda Chaney
- Youtube: Evolution Dance Studio
- Other: TikTok: evolutiondancestudio
