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Welcome to Episode 200 of the Salsa Kings LIVE podcast
We have been featured as #1 in “Top 10 Salsa Podcasts” on FeedSpot.
Hey familia! I’m so excited because this is episode 200 of our podcast. I have my good friend, Lester Castrillo, right here with me. I’ve been trying to get him on the show forever, since “episode negative,” and now he’s finally here. We’re talking about something very close to us: your superpower.
This idea reminds me of episode 61 called “You’re a Superhero.” But this time we go even deeper. We share what it means to find your own gift in dance and in life. It’s not about copying someone else. It’s about finding yourself, your flavor, your role, and then living it out fully.
We also talk about the Miami Salsa Cruise coming up in 2026. We’re going on the Carnival Horizon, visiting Jamaica and Mexico, dancing every night, and having an absolute blast. But the heart of this episode is about what makes you, you—on and off the dance floor.
Key Points
- Where “Superpower” Came From
Lester shared how, when he started dancing, he just wanted to be the best. He came from sports, so he was very competitive. His mentor Miguel told him, “It’s not about beating me. It’s about finding yourself in the dance.” That’s where the idea of a superpower comes from—discovering who you are and what you bring to the floor. - Your Role Matters
I compared it to sports. Imagine putting a center in the guard position or a forward as a center. Even the most talented players will lose if they’re not in their role. Same with dance. If you don’t lean into your own gift, your team—or your dance—won’t shine. - Everyone Has a Flavor
Lester said something powerful: “Andres dances like Andres. Pablo dances like Pablo. Lester dances like Lester.” Each of us has our own flavor. That’s the beauty of salsa. We’re all connected to the same roots, but we grow like branches into our own unique selves. - Finding Myself Through Music
Lester told how he used to play trumpet, trombone, and keyboard. Music always gave him stories and colors in his mind. One day he realized he could bring that same power into dance. His body became the instrument. That’s when things clicked for him—he stopped dancing in black and white and started dancing in full color. - Superpowers on and off the Floor
Lester said his superpower on the floor is creating a safe space. He makes sure his partner feels comfortable and can enjoy herself. Off the floor, he does the same—lifting others up and carrying weight so others don’t have to.
For me, my superpower is teaching. I can take a big idea and explain it in just a few words so it sticks. But on the dance floor, it flips. My power becomes fun—letting my partner know, “It’s okay to play. We’re here to enjoy.” - From Math to Art
At first, dance felt like math—right or wrong. But later, it became art. It’s not just about steps. It’s about what life and energy you bring to the moment. That’s when colors appear, and the dance becomes painting, not just counting.
Challenge to Students
We encourage dancers to find their own superpower. Follows, don’t always wait for a lead to create the safe space. Build your own confidence too. Leaders, create the space for your partner to shine. Together, you both bring magic to the dance.
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