CULTURE

CODE + CONVERSATION

Who We Serve and
Our Mission

LivingThe8Count serves every stepper and all lovers of Chicago Stepping — new steppers who want to understand; experienced steppers who value the culture; Steppers trying to move smart in Chicago; and people who care about respect on and off the floor. Our mission is simple.

Share Stepping Culture through meaningful expression
Educate new steppers through dialogue
Guide steppers who travel to dance
Call out what’s being done wrong – respectfully.

Stories of the Culture

These featured stories offer a first look into Chicago Stepping – including its culture, its people, and our own firsthand experiences and connections. For readers who want more, our Insider Membership takes it a step further, unlocking deeper insights and perspectives, unfiltered conversations, additional editorial content, and exclusive features.

Five Things Westside Mike Said

Fulfilling a promise to myself, I went to Chicago at a time of year when…

The Davneys and the Magic of Work It Out Wednesday

A stepper weekend trip to Chicago is incomplete unless it starts in the middle of…

Asking A Woman to Dance on the Stepper Set

Sometimes, in the comfort of the steppers set, it’s easy to forget that the world…

Ready for the Culture Code?

Join thousands of steppers who are committed to moving through every experience with confidence, clarity, and respect.

Learn More

Insider Benefits

Don’t guess the culture – learn it. With Insider access, you’ll gain opinion articles to spark meaningful conversations, read exclusive interviews with legends and influencers, history perspectives, enjoy special discounts for steppers, and more.
Upcoming Contests, Store Discounts, Instructor Referrals, Community Social Groups, World’s Largest History, & 100 Songs List for Steppers.

Become an Insider

Shop ForTheCulture.Life

Find the right tee for your a-tee-tude. For every stepper. For every mood. Celebrate the culture and your individuality. Visit our store.

Plan Your Trip to Chicago

Every stepper should make it to the Mecca of Stepping – Chicago. Find classes, stepper sets, suggested itineraries and suggested restaurants from steppers. Visit StepintheChi.org.

Be an Insider

Find the right tee for your a-tee-tude. For every stepper. For every mood. Celebrate the culture and your individuality.

Shop the Store

Every stepper should make it to the Mecca of Stepping – Chicago. Find classes, stepper sets, suggested itineraries and suggested restaurants from steppers.

Visit StepintheChi.org

Thank you for putting words to a beautiful steppin community. Btw my niece read my article and she said “ TeTe I’m so proud of you I remember when.” One of my proudest moments.

Lynette B.Reader

Your blog on reading is so full of great insights. You always have good humor in your posts/blogs. So much fun and easy to read! Keep up the Amazing Work and continue to share this positive energy you exude for ALL in the community.

Harmony M.Reader

Livingthe8count is always so very informative. I find most my information right here through this page concerning all things important to me.

Simon W.Reader

You are an excellent writer. Very articulate. The story on Kim Bowie was an awesome article. Been friends with Kim over 30 yrs. He was my walking partner on Thursday at MVK. Continue your journey I’m a faithful follower of your posts.

Ruby M.Reader

Wonderful blog, I had to rush through it but I’ll definitely go back and enjoy it in detail as soon as time permits. Thank you!

Andres W.Reader

Chief Culture Officer

Sonji Stewart, Chief Culture Officer, is the founder and creator of LivingThe8Count.com, a platform built from deep respect for Chicago Stepping and the people who carry the culture forward. With a genuine love for the dance, the stories continue.