We recently had the chance to connect with Linda Green and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Linda, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
My day begins with a twenty to thirty minute meditation followed with either a floor barre stretch, pilates or yoga workout at home. Then it’s time to make and enjoy my protein smoothie with a slice of my homemade oat bran loaf while I check my emails and catch up on the day’s news. .
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am the proud mother of three loving, talented, and compassionate young men, and the grandmother of six beautiful grandchildren. After founding and directing the St. Louis Academy of dance for nearly 40 years, I retired from studio life but continued my passion for dance through an event I created – National Dance Week, St. Louis. This annual celebration now in its 27th year has become a cherished tradition in our community. Since moving to St. Louis in 1969, the dance world has brought me tremendous joy, friendship, and fulfillment. As the Missouri State Director for the National Dance Week, I am deeply grateful to continue giving back to the St. Louis dance community that has given me so much.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
I believe that what breaks the bonds between people can be many things, but most often begins with a loss of trust, loyalty and a failure to truly communicate. When words are misunderstood or intentions are questioned, distance begins to grow where closeness once was. What restores those bonds is patience, genuine effort, and honest intention – taking the time to listen, to understand and to care enough to rebuild what was lost.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
We all experience suffering in one way or another – it’s simply part of life. What truly matters is what we do with that suffering.. For me, it has taught me that every day is special, and it’s up to me to make it so. It’s shown me the importance of surrounding myself with people who are kind, supportive, and compassionate. Most importantly, it has taught me to love myself.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
The cultural value I uphold is inclusion and respect for everyone – embracing people of all races, genders, identities, and religions. I believe in excepting our differences and recognizing the worth and dignity of every individual. When we open our hearts to understanding others, we create stronger, more compassionate communities. Acceptance also allows us to learn from one another, build trust, and celebrate the richness that diversity brings to our lives. I have always loved the diversity of dance, as each cultural form of expression tells a story and reflects the beauty of its people and traditions.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
That I have had so many loving and generous people in my life personally and professionally. I look back to the dance studio I founded with pride and try to always give back to the St.Louis dance community for which I am forever grateful.
My hope is that I have modeled the important things in life which I believe aren’t the external things but the inner places of Love, Generosity, Kindness and Family.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.NationalDanceWeekSTL.com
Image Credits
ShyVsion Photography
