We were lucky to catch up with Vanessa Fuller recently and have shared our conversation below.

Vanessa, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Have you been able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen? Was it like that from day one? If not, what were some of the major steps and milestones and do you think you could have sped up the process somehow knowing what you know now?

Yes, I have been able to earn a full time living from my creative work since I was 19 years old. I started out as a dance teacher at local studios, teaching several classes per week as well as leading my own dance company and producing shows. I picked up freelance choreography work and coached high school dance teams in my area as well. When I turned 23, I opened my first dance studio space that lasted about 2 years, and ultimately, was a Fail. Owning a business was so much different than working for one, and even though I knew a lot about studio life, I knew nothing about running a studio. Initially, I tried to do what everyone else in town was doing. I tried to emulate their classes and programming, their pricing structure, marketing… I thought that in order to be successful I needed to fit in because that’s what people were buying. Turns out, I was very wrong. After closing the doors on that studio myself and my then husband at the time and my one year old went on a tour across the country where I busked on street corners with my tap shoes from NYC all the way out to Hawaii. I developed grit, people skills, and a tough skin through that experience. I also saw so much of the country and performed and danced in many amazing places. FAST FORWARD, at 28 I was approached with the opportunity once again to open my own dance studio. I said NO immediately because I was scared from the failure of the first studio, and I was working a regular job supporting now two kids and trying to find more stability. My mom, who was my biggest supporter, busted into my office on day and told me that I should quit my job because my dream had always been to dance and own a studio, and take the opportunity. I thought about it deeply and I had to ask myself WHY my first business failed. I realized that the reason I was unable to thrive was because I was not authentic to who I was or what I wanted to be. I tried to fit it, and I tried to hide what makes me stand out. I knew that if I were to create a successful business, it would have to be based on being my FULL AUTHENTIC self… from classes to energy to teaching style to branding and marketing, I had to be authentic to the core and let it grow into an extension myself. I started Xcape dance academy in 2014 and it is still alive and thriving today, 11 years later, as one of th e best studios in our region.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

Vanessa Fuller, a multi-talented dancer, choreographer, and artistic director, is making waves in the entertainment industry with her recent appearance on Second Chance Stage on HBO Max and the Magnolia Network. Known for her thrilling, inspiring, and passionate performances, Vanessa is bringing her vibrant energy to the screen, further solidifying her place as a powerhouse in the dance world.

Hailing from Eugene, Oregon, Vanessa’s journey in dance began at the tender age of three. With over 20 years of experience teaching dance and more than a decade of professional pursuits, she is a seasoned artist with a deep love for the craft. In the past 11 years, she has built Xcape Dance Academy from the ground up, turning it into one of the most successful and well-regarded dance studios in the area.

Vanessa‘s ability to overcome challenges, especially after the passing of her mother—the greatest supporter of her dreams—has fueled her determination. From creating a dance studio amidst personal grief, overcoming the pandemic’s obstacles, Vanessa has remained steadfast in her pursuit of excellence, innovation, and her passion for dance.

Vanessa is the owner of Xcape Dance Academy, where dancers of all ages and levels come together to experience freedom of movement and self-expression. The academy offers a wide range of dance styles, from beginners to professional dancers. Xcape Dance Academy is more than just a dance school—it’s a vibrant community where passion, artistry, and creativity thrive.

The company has also ventured into the fashion world with Xcape Dancewear, providing high-quality dance apparel designed for comfort and style, making waves in the hip-hop costume market.

Vanessa’s influence extends beyond the studio, as she has been featured in major events and television shows. She appeared as a contestant on CBS’s Let’s Make a Deal, has been a headlining performer for the World Track and Field Championships sponsored by ASICS, and even starred in a pilot casting for MTV’s Made.
In addition to her work as a choreographer and educator, Vanessa has embraced the role of content creator, sharing her dance journey and experiences with a broader audience. Through her YouTube reality show, XTRA, viewers get a behind-the-scenes look at her day-to-day life as a studio owner and the highs and lows of running a dance business.

Her podcast, The Come Up, is another extension of Vanessa’s vision to inspire others. The show features raw, unscripted conversations with accomplished individuals, exploring their unique journeys and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. As Vanessa continues to grow in this space, she aims to reach a wider audience and create a platform for stories of greatness, perseverance, and inspiration.
Vanessa’s latest achievement comes with her appearance on Second Chance Stage, which premiered on Thanksgiving Day. The show is a thrilling opportunity for Vanessa to showcase her talents and passion on a national stage, and it’s a moment that is sure to further solidify her position as one of the most promising figures in the entertainment industry. Her electrifying performance on the show, filled with energy and grace, captured the attention of viewers and judges alike.

Radical accountability,” Vanessa shares, reflecting on her path. “It’s all about making choices that move you closer to your purpose, no matter how difficult the road may seem. I’ve learned that everything is a choice—and nothing will keep me from achieving my dreams.”
Vanessa’s vision for the future is ambitious yet attainable. She dreams of working as a choreographer and creative director for major projects like the Super Bowl, music videos, and award shows. With her passion for dance and her unwavering commitment to success, Vanessa hopes to continue elevating the art form and making a lasting impact on the industry.

Vanessa Fuller’s story is one of resilience, determination, and undeniable talent. From her humble beginnings in Eugene, Oregon, to her groundbreaking performance on Second Chance Stage, she is proof that with passion, dedication, and a deep belief in oneself, anything is possible.

To learn more about Vanessa and stay updated on her journey, follow her on Instagram at @vanessafullerdance and Facebook at Vanessa Fuller Dance.

Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?

DAY TRADING ATTENTION by Gary Vee, which is also how I have been building my social media for the last few years. I attended VEE CON this year for the first time and it changed my life. I ended up starting a dance costume company as a way to vertically integrate my business and establish another place in my industry. He has a ton of free content that is so valuable and has helped me greatly to get where I am .

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding part of being mg a creative is to be able to inspire others to live their lives in a way that is true and authentic to them. Bringing light into someone’s day, lifting the energy in the room, and cultivating more safe spaces on earth.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Vanessafullerdance.com
• Instagram: Vanessafullerdance
• Facebook: https://Facebook.com/vanessafullerdance
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vanessa-fuller-037832195?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@xcapedancetv?si=V9vfurxRUm5uFv4Q
• Other: Tik tok : vanessafullerdance

Image Credits

Second chance stage, hbo max and magnolia network