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

Hi Ivan, do you have any habits that you feel contribute to your effectiveness?
As a dedicated professional ballroom dancer and instructor, my journey in the world of dance began at the age of 6. The fundamental habits that have fueled my success revolve around the unwavering commitment to discipline and consistency. In the ballroom dance, excellence is not achieved in an instant but through a daily dedication to mastering one’s skills. The intricacies of this particular dance style require a relentless pursuit of mastery, driving me to dedicate countless hours to practice.

Discipline has been my guiding principle, motivating me to show up for practice regardless of external factors like mood or weather. It’s the persistence in pushing through challenges that have allowed me to improve my technique continually. Whether improving individual skills or dancing with a dance partner, the commitment to daily improvement is the key to my success. This disciplined approach has not only shaped me as a dancer but has also become a philosophy I instill in my students as an instructor and coach.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’ve achieved my current standing in professional ballroom dance through daily hard work with my dance partner. Our attention to detail not only sets us apart but also defines our teaching style.

The journey to where I am today has been marked by challenges, especially as immigrants in a new country and continent, far from our home in Ukraine. Coming here 5 years ago, not knowing anyone, was a shocking change for my dance partner and wife, Alisa, and me. However, this country has brought so many new opportunities and heights and introduced us to great and kind people, including coaches and students who support us. We will be forever grateful for this!

What sets me apart is the belief that success is built on a foundation of consistent effort. I am most proud of our community of dedicated students, each investing countless hours to practice and master their new dancing hobby. As an artist and instructor, I want the world to know that my philosophy of teaching stands for a commitment to excellence, a passion for the art of dance, and a dedication to imparting these values to future generations.”

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’m typically quite busy during the week, and sometimes weekends are occupied with dance competitions, either for us or with our students. When I do find some free time, I enjoy starting my day with a cup of coffee. Here are a few of my favorite coffee places in town: Press Coffee, Caffio Espresso Bar, Futuro Coffee, and Giant Coffee.

A recent discovery for me is the Nash Jazz Club — an absolutely amazing place if you appreciate jazz. Additionally, I’ve had the pleasure of attending pottery classes at the Sunshine Sunflower Studio, an art and pottery school. The owners are incredibly kind, making it a delightful experience. These are some of my top recommendations.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I am truly blessed to have been guided by a constellation of remarkable coaches and mentors throughout my dance career. Each of them, having achieved the highest levels in the professional ballroom dance industry, has not only been a source of inspiration but a driving force behind my success. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Nikolay Voronovich, Maria Nikolishina, Eugene Katsevman, Slavik Kryklyvyy, Karina Smirnoff, Carmen Vincelj, Ruud Vermeij, Dekatra Lapaeva, Barbara McColl, Maurizio Vescovo, and many more.

Their expertise, passion, and commitment have not only elevated my skills but have shaped the dancer and instructor I am today. Their invaluable mentorship goes beyond the dance floor, instilling in me the dedication, discipline, and artistry required to excel in this highly competitive field. I owe a significant part of my success to their unwavering support, and I am truly grateful for the privilege of having such distinguished figures as my coaches and mentors.

Website: https://khdlslznv.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/khudoliyseleznova/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivankhudoliy94/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/khudoliyseleznova/

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/ballroom-dance-lessons-with-ivan-and-alisa-phoenix

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQXmkt1grRheinqbZjQRDxw

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutArizona is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.