Meet Aubrey Ares-hernández | Founder, Creative & Dance Industry Strategist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Aubrey Ares-hernández and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Aubrey, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
Growing up, pursuing an artistic career was seen as an impractical choice. Success, as I was taught, meant earning a degree, securing a 9-to-5 job, and following a conventional path. Despite dancing my entire life, when I was offered a scholarship to the University of Arizona for dance, I turned it down and chose to study business at Arizona State instead—because that’s what I believed I was supposed to do.

But life has a way of redirecting us back to what we’re meant for. When things didn’t unfold as I had expected, I turned to the one thing I knew I was truly great at: dance. That’s what led me to audition for the Laker Girls—not just for the chance to perform, but because I knew that if I could make a living doing what I loved, I would be happy. Taking that leap meant breaking free from the expectations I grew up with and choosing fulfillment over fear.

Becoming a Laker Girl was a dream come true, but at 19, I had no idea that beyond the stage, I was getting a masterclass in business, branding, and leadership. Working for one of the most prestigious franchises in sports shaped me in ways that business school never could. I learned firsthand the power of systems, culture, and excellence—lessons I would later apply as an entrepreneur.

I pursued an artistic career not just because I had the physical ability to dance, but because I realized that artistry and business were not separate—they were meant to coexist. By combining my passion for movement with the strategic mindset I developed through my experience with the Lakers, I built Empowered Movement. What once felt like an impossible choice became the foundation of my purpose: to elevate, inspire, and empower others to turn their creativity into something bigger than themselves.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
The journey to where I am today hasn’t been easy—it’s taken years of consistency, resilience, and an incredible village of support. Empowered Movement isn’t just a dance company where people show up, practice, and leave. It’s a space where individuals discover they are capable of far more than they ever imagined.

At EMDC, we create an environment where belief in oneself grows stronger with every step, every challenge, and every breakthrough. I won’t pretend to be perfect—I’ve made mistakes, faced obstacles, and learned tough lessons. But every challenge has only strengthened the foundation of what EMDC stands for.

If there’s one thing I want people to know about my business, it’s that we are deeply committed to guiding our dancers toward success—whether that means confidently performing on stage, competing at the highest level, or simply finding the courage to dance in front of a mirror. Success looks different for everyone, and at EMDC, we celebrate all of it.

Dance isn’t just movement; it’s a catalyst for confidence, discipline, and self-discovery. When you step into our company, you’re not just learning choreography—you’re gaining the tools to take on life with strength, passion, and purpose.

With all these tools and experiences, I realized I have so much to share about building a creative brand. That’s why I launched In The Studio, which is a podcast dedicated to helping dancers, choreographers, producers, and creatives turn their passion into success.

In each episode, I dive into practical tips, strategies, and inspiring stories to elevate your dance career or creative projects. Whether professionals are just starting out or looking to level up, this is the space to learn, grow, and feel supported on your journey.

This podcast is a new venture I’m incredibly proud of because I know firsthand what it’s like to build something from the ground up. I want dancers and creatives to know—they’re not alone. I’ve been there, and I’m here to guide, inspire, and help you navigate the path through the greatest journey of all time.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Dedicated to my Laker Girl coach, Lisa Estrada.

From the very beginning, she saw something in me that I hadn’t yet seen in myself. She believed in me when I was young and held me to a standard I didn’t know I was capable of reaching. Her guidance, leadership, and unwavering support shaped not just the dancer I became, but the leader I am today. I am forever grateful for the impact she has had on my journey and for her ability to cultivate strong women.

Website: https://Aubreyares.com

Instagram: @Fulloutaubs

Youtube: Aubrey Ares