Today we’d like to introduce you to Meghan Greenwood.
Hi Meghan, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
As a lifelong dancer and bookworm, I have incorporated these interests into multiple business ventures. I hold a PhD in Immunology, but science was never enough. I worked in labs and in big pharma, yet still had a calling to do more – especially more for the community I lived in.
Rewind to 2015, when I just finishing up my PhD and desperately needed an outlet. I started BaM Choreography LLC with my sister Brianna Pato. For the first almost decade of the business, we traveled to different studios, schools, etc to provide on-site dancing and fitness instruction. In addition, I always taught a steady weekly class for adults. When COVID hit, the on-site model had to change, and instead, I converted my home basement into a small studio, where I offer virtual classes – and eventually when the world opened, in-person classes. Even after moving out of the inner city of Pittsburgh, I am still working with the community at multiple venues, besides my own studio, to encourage health and wellness of kids, adults, and senior citizens.
At the same time as the in-home studio was created, I, along with the rest of the world, was feeling very isolated. I have worked from home for my W2 job since 2016, however, the lack of friend and family gatherings was weighing on me. And I realized I wasn’t alone. There was a major need for helping people get through this trying time and stay on track. Hence, I created Pgh Dreamer Productions LLC, with my main service offering of being a Virtual Accountability Buddy. I chat with folks 1:1 about their goals, we break them down into attainable chunks, and check back in often to work through challenges and other barriers. I am able to connect with people across the US and really understand that we’re all so similar in our efforts to be better humans.
Other services offered by Pgh Dreamer Productions include hosting the Pgh Dreamer’s Pod, where I interview local women business owners of Pittsburgh, and the My Little Dreamer Book Series, where I write children’s STEM books in a very simple way, introducing them to esoteric science-based careers.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Neither of my business ventures have been a smooth road. I had zero business background when I applied for the BaM Choreography LLC. When you build the bike and ride it at the same time, things will surely pop up. Figuring it out year after year in terms of marketing, insurance, software, etc, is quite the humbling experience. I lean on other business owners and Google a lot – and just recently, have finally taken the first steps toward finding my own business coach.
I also struggle with balance. I want to do so much and there’s only so much time in the day. I’ve really honed in on my priorities the last 6 months, and I’ve learned to let go of things that were just noise.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I love to create with my words and my body.
As an author, I’ve primarily focused on kids’ nonfiction. I have 16 books in the My Little Dreamer Book series with the goal of reaching 20 by end of 2027. Eventually, I’d like to branch into creating my first true fiction book and potentially, a first nonfiction book for adults.
As a dancer/choreographer, I especially love making people feel comfortable moving their bodies. Our mission is to be accessible and accepting of every body, no matter the age and stage of life. I break routines down into simple steps and encourage even the most novice of dancers to give my classes a try. I also really love creating dance concept films, where I tell a story through choreography. I have completed many videos over the past 10 years with my volunteer adult group, the BaM FaM, and just this year, have set my sights toward pre-professional adult dancers and producing a longer dance film for festival entries.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Networking is all about being vulnerable. You have to be willing to reach out and start a conversation; but more importantly, you have to be open to collaboration and know the right people to work with. Networking is only as good as the energy you can put into it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/BaM_PghDreamer
Image Credits
Ashley Fortuna Photography
