A Helmet Doesn’t Go Far with a Viennese Waltz (DWTS: The Next Pro 106)
Aug 18, 2026 · 1h 32m
Summary
Val Chmerkovskiy joins the show to discuss his preparation for the upcoming Dancing with the Stars season, emphasizing constant practice and his roles as a teacher and performer. He reflects on the viral nature of dance moments, arguing that emotional connection matters more than intentional "wow" factors. The episode also covers DWTS Season 31, Episode 6, where pros teach amateurs, with Val analyzing the critical balance between teaching technique and managing student expectations.
Topics discussed
Sponsors: ChatGPT for Business and Truist Securities
Val Chmerkovskiy on preparing for DWTS and his career ecosystem
The importance of viral moments and performance drama on DWTS
Guest judge Whitney Carson and the necessity of teaching skills
Val's coaching philosophy and balancing passion with technique
Sponsors: ChatGPT Work and Indeed Sponsored Jobs
Sponsor: Vela products for hormonal health
Influencer casting and the impact of height differences in dance
Rehearsal breakdowns: Adele, Anthony, and the challenge of teaching
Managing expectations and last-minute choreography changes
Sponsors: ChatGPT, Indeed, and Vela
Social media pressure and judging ambition vs. execution
Coaching styles: Selena, Jeremy, and the 'bang for your buck' strategy
Influencer feedback on coaches and confidence levels
Performance reviews: Adele, Anthony, Alan, and Zyra
Sponsors: Reese's and Indeed
Sponsor: Vela and Alan's pro-ready potential
Results: Selena in jeopardy and the reality of pro life
Outro and final sponsor messages
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