Dance like you were born in a holler...no matter where in the world you live!

The only online Flatfooting & Clogging Academy that combines 8 generations of Kentucky tradition with a unique Flatfooting Formula, so you can dance authentically to any tune.

Master the dance techniques you'll be proud to showcase at any festival

Want to Turn Any Porch into your Personal Dance Stage?

I KNOW WHAT IT'S LIKE TO yearn to dance, but feel frozen to the spot

I’m here to help you with every step as you learn to dance and improvise in Appalachian Flatfooting & Clogging, at your own pace!

I know how challenging it can be to learn all the steps, while trying to figure out how to put them together, with each other and with the tunes.

(Because I’ve been there.)

But I’ve figured out what works best to break down the process of improvising so that anyone can learn it.

And what doesn’t.

AS SEEN IN/AT:

I've developed a Flatfooting Formula that will take you from shy beginner to confident improviser faster than you can say "yee-haw!"

Whether you're looking to connect with tradition, get some fun exercise, or become the star of every late-night jam, I've got you covered. So put on your dancing shoes, and let's get moving!

It's difficult to put a finger on what makes a dancer truly shine at a hoedown or festival... but it's easy to know when something's missing.

When your footwork flows effortlessly with the music, when your body instinctively responds to every fiddle riff and banjo lick, when you can confidently join any jam session without missing a beat—that's when you know you've truly mastered Appalachian dance.

At the Appalachian Flatfooting & Clogging Academy, we help you get it right.

In our recorded classes and live videos, we combine authentic traditions with modern teaching methods, and cultural context with step-by-step instruction. Whether you're reconnecting with your heritage or discovering these dances for the first time, my Flatfooting Formula will help take you from hesitant newbie to confident improviser.

So when the music starts up and your heart says 'dance,' you'll be ready to answer the call—anytime, anywhere.

Because THAT'S what it's all about!

OBSESSED WITH

Murder Mysteries, Mason Jars,

and All Things Corn

SECRET DREAM

Mainstage at Philly Folk Festival

PET PEEVE

Raisins when you’re expecting chocolate chips

FAVORITE THINGS

Banjos, Ballads, Books, & Boots

76%

Reduced dementia risk through regular dancing — per a 20-year NEJM study

0%

Dementia risk reduction from swimming, biking, or golf. Dance wins.

3

Ways dance fights depression: chemical, cognitive, and social — simultaneously

30+

Years Carla has been performing & teaching Appalachian dance

It’s never too late to heal through the power of dance.

"After a spine injury left me unable to walk, I vowed to never stop dancing if I could recover. Later, overwhelmed by grief from losing my husband, I joined Carla’s Academy and it’s been one of the best things I’ve ever done for myself. Despite my age and past injury, the patient teaching and supportive community helped me regain confidence and joy through dance. Fast forward — I am now in a band and we meet weekly! I have my dance board and I flatfoot and clog as the percussionist! I’m living proof it’s never too late to heal through the power of dance."

DIANN B. / AFCA STUDENT

The most enriching decision of my retired life.

"I had fears about joining the program because I’m 67. I wondered, ‘Am I too old to do this? Am I fit enough?’ The Academy has been the perfect fit, because you can do it at your own speed. Joining was a leap of faith, but it turned out to be the most enriching decision of my retired life. I encourage anyone doubting themselves to take the leap, because the rewards are immeasurable."

CHERYL / AFCA STUDENT

Are you ready to do something awesome?

WHERE TO NEXT?

Grab your free dance video

The Appalachian Flatfooting Quick Start — four foundational steps, the Flatfooting Formula, and you'll be on your way to dancing like you were born in a holler!

Get your free video →