We had the good fortune of connecting with Lesley Mcintosh and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lesley, what do you attribute your success to?
My students! Developing a strong relationship, with each and every student that walks through the door. I so enjoy getting to know each individual person, and why they decided to learn to dance. Most of the time it really isn’t about the dancing,

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’ve always believed that anyone can dance, and I’ve been helping singles and couples feel more confident on the dance floor for over 25 years.

Helping wedding couples prepare for their first dance, enjoy, and gain confidence on the dance floor. I also help couples and singles develop social ballroom dance skills in preparation for upcoming parties, cruises, and socials. I’ve taught for the LGHS Boys Club, SJSU, The Terraces of Los Gatos, LGS Recreation, Debonair Dancers, and Mates & Dates Ballroom Dance Clubs.

I spent four years as a professional rhythm competitor and several years as a pro/am competitor, competing all over the US. I’ve been a member of NDCA for over 20 years. I am also a regular judge for the San Jose State Ballroom Competition.

As long as I can remember, I’ve wanted to be a teacher, and dancer/performer! Gathering the neighborhood kids to play school in my parents garage, or put on a show in the backyard where I was always Shirley Temple. .

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I actually have a friend visiting from New York in October. We will be heading up to San Francisco, meander around Union Square and have dinner at Johns Grill my favorite restaurant! See “Dear San Francisco” A fabulous aerial show in the former Club Fugazi theater in North Beach. On the way home, we will stop at Fioli historic house and gardens. Try and catch a jazz show at Montalvo in Saratoga. And of course, Santa Cruz Beach and Boardwalk.

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?
In the beginning working at Arthur Murray, dance studios, taught me so much more than just learning the steps & syllabus. I learned more about the dance business. &, being able to adapt my teaching to the personality, & the different ways in which people learn.

When I started competing professionally, Wendy Johnson was my coach, and mentor.. Choreographing, and helping me to navigate the competitive dance world.

Website: https://lesleydance.com

Instagram: ballroomlesley

Yelp: Ballroom dancing with Lesley

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