Misty Copeland: podcast appearances and interviews

Misty Danielle Copeland, born on September 10, 1982, is an American ballet dancer and author. She is primarily affiliated with the American Ballet Theatre, one of the United States' leading classical ballet companies. On June 30, 2015, Copeland made history by becoming the first African American woman to be promoted to principal dancer at ABT in its 75-year history. Copeland is recognized as a prodigy who achieved stardom despite not beginning ballet until the age of 13. Her journey was marked by legal and personal challenges; in 1998, her ballet teachers served as her guardians while her mother was engaged in a custody battle. Both sides eventually dropped legal proceedings, and Copeland commenced studies under a new instructor who was a former ABT member. Her early talent earned her the 1997 Los Angeles Music Center Spotlight Award as the best dancer in Southern California. She joined ABT's Studio Company in 2000, the corps de ballet in 2001, and became a soloist in 2007. As a soloist, she developed a more contemporary and sophisticated style, continuing her career until her retirement from ABT in 2025. Beyond dance, Copeland has established herself as a public speaker, author of two autobiographical books, and narrated a documentary titled A Ballerina's Tale. Her visibility increased through performances on Broadway, touring with Prince, and appearances on television. She has also endorsed various brands, including T-Mobile, Coach, Inc., Dr Pepper, Seiko, The Dannon Company, and Under Armour.