This is the audio content for the Kickoff of the Virtual Arts Summit presented by Marching Health and The Breakdown Camp!

Jake Lyons is the Creator and Project Manager of Virtual Arts Inc, the organization behind the Virtual Drum & Bugle Corps. We talk about where the idea for the Virtual Drum Corps came from, the creative and technical challenges the team faced in bringing it to life, and plans for future virtual ensembles. Be sure to check out the Virtual Arts website for more information on how to get involved with future projects from Virtual Arts Inc.!

Are the stresses of being a band director starting to impact your health and relationships? South Carolina Band Director Marcus Morris sat down with us to discuss his PhD research on "Band Director Burnout". We talk about common stressors as well as different stresses directors may have based on their specific jobs. If you want to improve your health as a director join our "Band Directors for Better Health" Facebook group.

Dr. Craig Lindell, DPT, sits down with us to discuss how he and his team at The Prehab Guys are revolutionizing the health and fitness industry. Dr. Lindell and Dr. Elliot Cleveland have been friends since their time in physical therapy school. While in school, Dr. Lindell and his friends decided to start a business aimed at educating the public on preventative health tips. Three years later they are closing in on ONE MILLION social media followers!!! Enjoy this conversation on health and go follow The Prehab Guys afterward.

Natalie Nation is the nutritionist behind Feed That Nation and The Marching Nutritionist. She is currently a student in dietetics and was the Food Operations Lead and Nutrition Specialist with the Madison Scouts 2017-2019. We talk about how to approach healthy eating with a healthy mindset and some pitfalls to avoid. Natalie also shares practical tips and recipe ideas to help you use the resources you have to make meals that are easy to make, nutritious, and delicious!

Claire Wilcox is the current drum major of the Phantom Regiment and 2019 recipient of the Jim Jones Leadership Award. She talks about her journey from high school marching band to leading one of the top drum corps. We also explore the unique role a drum major plays in the daily operations of a drum corps, strategies for developing trust as a leader, and practical steps to fostering a strong team culture.

Today’s show is an interview with Samia Mooney, movement and dance instructor for the Bluecoats and Avon HS. We talk a little about how Samia combines her education and experience in exercise science, kinesiology, and dance to create the best learning experiences for her students. We also cover some of the less obvious physical demands of marching and movement, and how instructors can help performers meet those challenges.

Molly Favret, Tarpon Springs instructor and Crossmen designer, joins us this week on the podcast to talk about the new age of digital media in drum corps, how to build up confidence with your students, and why it's important to look professional at all times!

Carl Huang, former head drum major of Santa Clara Vanguard, joined us on this week's podcast (with his cat!) to talk about auditioning for drum corps, leading your band or corps using "servant leadership", and the 2018 SCV run!

Brandon Olander, former center snare of The Blue Devils Drum and Bugle Corps and I&E Winner, joins us on the podcast! Brandon talks about the internet fame he had while he was younger, his time in drum corps with aging out, and what he plans on doing after drum corps!