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.

Simon and Sonji dancing in Chicago
Discover Chicago Stepping
Grown Folks Energy
Inside the Culture

Chicago Stepping: The Struggles Everyone Faces When Learning

The truth is, every smooth stepper you admire today once stood exactly where you are now: learning the rhythm, figuring out the timing, and working through the early challenges. Because we’ve all walked that path, it’s important to share those experiences so you know what to expect and can move through the journey with confidence. Common Challenges When Learning Chicago Stepping Finding the Right Instructor Starting with the right instructor builds a strong foundation. Seek referrals from experienced steppers whose style you admire. Sometimes this turns to jumping between multiple instructors. Jumping Between Multiple Instructors Learning from too many teachers…

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Feature Stories - Blog
Culture and Code
For Insiders
Contests
Find Instructors

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.

Ready for the Culture Code?

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

Gifts and hearts

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.

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.

Hearts

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.

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.

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

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

Black couple dancing
Ericka and Selwynn dancing

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.

Sonji Stewart at Worlds Largest 2024
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