We were lucky to catch up with Jocelynn Johnson recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Jocelynn thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.

I’ve always dreamed of hosting a dance production of my own, not running a studio, but creating something uniquely mine. I’ve been dancing since I was three years old, and in 2019, I launched Freedom Reigns Productions Dance Company (FRP) as a personal passion project. I funded everything myself, but when the pandemic hit, I had to shut it down.

In 2024, I felt a strong pull to finally produce my own show. I’ve been choreographing and producing shows for others since 2009, but this time, it was my turn. Putting on the show cost me thousands of dollars. I’m a wife and a mother of two toddlers, so taking this leap meant having a serious conversation with my husband, asking for his support in something that felt uncertain. We didn’t make all the money back but sometimes, you just have to follow your heart and take the leap anyway.

So in May of 2025, I hosted that show and had 185 participants attend. As a believer in Jesus Christ, I centered the show around Him. And even though it wasn’t financially profitable, the impact was priceless. People gave their lives to Christ because of the message of the show. So while it cost me time, money, and moments with my family, I believe the reward was far greater. Sharing my vision and stepping out in faith was worth it.

Jocelynn, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I started my dance journey began at the tender age of three with Spirit Wings Dance Company, where I trained until the age of 12. Due to health challenges related to asthma, I had to pause my dance training. However, I passion never left. At 16, I returned to dance, this time not only as a student but also as a teacher at Dynamic Moves Dance Studio and Company.

Navigating the dance world as a “thick and dark-skinned” woman, I faced intense challenges in an industry that often favors lighter skin tones and slimmer body types. Despite these obstacles, I persevered and carved out my own path. At 19, I began choreographing at her former church and teaching at different dance studios where I found freedom, creativity, and purpose. Over time, I produced eight successful shows that cemented my calling: creating space for dancers to be wholly themselves.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, I authored and self-published my first book, Thickems and the Dance Floor, a heartfelt exploration of the stereotypes and struggles faced by plus-size dancers. My writing and work continue to empower those who feel unseen in traditional dance spaces.

In 2019, Jocelynn founded Freedom Reigns Productions, a faith-based, DMV-based adult dance company for artists ages 18 and up. FRP is committed to nurturing dancers by building self-esteem, self-love, and strong technical foundations. The company prepares its dancers not just for workshops, auditions, and scholarships, but for life beyond the stage—grounded in confidence, respect, and community.

With every step, I wanted to redefine what a dancer looks like and reminding the world that freedom, artistry, and faith have no size limit.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding part of what I do is knowing that the God within me can inspire others. I’ve received messages from people saying they chose not to end their lives after watching one of my dance performances. I’ve had students break down in tears during class because it gave them a safe space to release the weight of what they’re carrying. Women have told me, “I’m just glad you created this space where we can be free.” Others have said, “I feel so much lighter after this class or performance.” I do this to impact lives and ultimately, to bring glory to God.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

I choose not to compare my journey to anyone else’s, especially to the dancers I’ve taught who may seem further along.
My path is my own. Just like fingerprints, no two journeys are the same and that’s by design. We were never meant to be copies of each other. There was a time I felt sadness seeing others’ success on social media, but I remind myself of who I am: fearfully and wonderfully made. I am uniquely crafted, with my own timing, gifts, and purpose. I honor that. I am enough, just as I am, and just where I am.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjocelynnj/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@IAmJocelynnJ
• Other: https://www.instagram.com/freedomreignsproductions/

Image Credits

@dee_productionzz
@theshawphotographygroup
@just.captured.it