Episode 11: Season Finale Breakdown

Summary

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Dancing with the Stars Official Podcast

Episode 11: Season Finale Breakdown

Date: November 27, 2025
Host: Joey Graziadei

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Episode Overview

The season finale episode of the Dancing with the Stars Official Podcast offers an exclusive, behind-the-scenes breakdown of the Season 34 finale. Host Joey Graziadei catches up with all the finalists—Elaine & Alan, Dylan & Daniella, Jordan & Ezra, Alex & Val—and the newly crowned champions, Robert & Whitney, revealing their emotions, journeys, and reactions just moments after the curtain falls. Expect heartfelt reflections, backstage details, and deep dives into the creative process of the season’s most memorable performances.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

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1. Overall Season Reflections & Voting Stats

• Joey reveals staggering voting participation, with double the votes from last season’s finale and over half a billion votes across the season.

  “We got more than double the amount of votes that we had last year's season finale, and there was more than half a billion votes across the entire season.” (00:50)

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2. Elaine & Alan: Rediscovering Passion & Performing Through Adversity

Journey to the Finale

• Elaine details sleepless nights, a sense of spiraling, and finds renewed determination by finale week.

  “I had a few sleepless nights and then I was like. I felt like I was spiraling out of control. But I got a good night's rest now. I have a whole new lease on life and I'm just really determined to enjoy, like, these last moments.” —Elaine (02:01)

• Alan talks about wanting Elaine to feel the achievement:

  “I want this so bad for her. I want Elaine to feel the achievement, the glory, the…[she] put in so much work. She was persistent, you know, resilient through the injuries.” —Alan (02:31)

Elaine’s Injury & the Comeback

• Elaine retells the story of almost losing her dance career due to a car accident, and the emotional journey back.

  “I literally had to pivot when I was hit by a car… I never thought I would be here again. And now here I am. And I've never done ballroom, so it was like, let's really see what I can do.” —Elaine (04:11)

Future Plans

• Elaine intends to return to her theater roots, with ambitions for Broadway:

  “I got my eyes on Broadway, some stuff in the works there…there is nothing like that [audience] exchange.” —Elaine (05:28)

Freestyle Preparation

• Alan’s creative process: 12 versions of the freestyle song, with a narrative inspired by old Hollywood and their season-long tradition of inventing backstories.

  “We’re on V12 of the song, so 12 different versions of the song…but…this isn’t about me as much as it is about our partnership.”—Alan (07:10)

• Fun backstory detail: For the Disney-themed Quickstep, their invented plot involved Elaine studying aliens at “Galactic Community College Online of the Arts.” (08:18)

Post-Finale Reflections

• Both express pride and emphasize the friendships and sense of community forged:

  “I'm going to keep dancing, I'm going to keep performing. All of that will remain. So it's just…these very special, unique people who work on this show.” —Elaine (10:45)

Notable Quote

• “You’ll see me on tour.” —Alan, on keeping in touch after the show (10:41)

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3. Dylan & Daniella: Growth from Zero Experience, Embracing Change

Entry & Experience

• Dylan admits he was initially on the fence, but Joey's encouragement swayed him:

  “I like, I was already leaning towards doing it at that point and you just sealed the deal. So it's been everything I thought and more.” —Dylan (11:51)

Intensity of the Competition

• The pair discuss the exhaustion and pressure of finale week—with six dances to prepare in as little as five days.

  “This has been the longest week of my life.” (12:19)

Teaching a Non-Dancer

• Daniella enjoyed starting from scratch:

  “He's always the last one to leave the studio…he's just so hard working. When a partner is like that, it's so much easier as an experience for me.” —Daniella (13:14)

Milestone Moments & Confidence

• Daniella sees Dylan’s confidence grow, especially when he performed with his sister:

  “That was the first time he was really shining is when he was in the studio with her, and he was so confident…” —Daniella (14:53)

Freestyle Approach

• Original plan was high-energy (“Step Up”-style), but chose a contemporary, emotional number reflecting Dylan’s growth.

  “He felt the best doing the contemporary and barefoot and free and not perfect and just going raw and just emotional. … this is more storytelling and just heartfelt, and I feel like that was our journey.” —Daniella (16:56)

Viral Move — The "Airwalk"

• The season's most shared moment, dubbed by fans:

  “Our fans called it the airwalk… and then I think that translated to stage because within the week we just got so much better at it. I got stronger…and then it turned out great.” —Dylan (19:00)

Post-Finale Reflections

• Daniella:

  “Maybe I always knew I had it in me, but Danny had to pull it out from deep within my toes.” —Dylan (21:28)

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4. Jordan & Ezra: A Standout Partnership Built on Friendship & Family

Unexpected Chemistry

• Both initially unsure, but quickly matched energies, becoming close friends.

  “Walking through the door during our first Heart to Heart…I was like, you know what? This dude is like, he matches me…from our heart to heart to every single day, it was just a lot of fun and a lot of energy.” —Jordan (24:03)

Real Moments and Authenticity

• Both value the “real”—even the disagreements:

  “It wouldn't be authentic if you weren't [butting heads]…that's when you really start connecting with someone…” —Joey (26:03)

Memorable Dance

• Both agree their rumba was special, especially due to thematic restrictions and their inventive workaround:

  “We originally had [the unique handhold] at the end. And they asked us to take it out…they didn't say we can't put it anywhere else…so we put it in the middle.” —Danny (27:27)

Emotional Family Support

• Jordan highlights her parents’ support—her mother never missed a show:

  “My mom has never missed anything in my career…my dad during dedication night…Just to see the joy and pride…is what made me feel very proud to be his daughter.” —Jordan (28:41)

Freestyle as Full-Circle Storytelling

• The freestyle was about Jordan’s whole journey, designed for her to shine:

  “We’re throwing it back in this freestyle…that is not my strong suit at all. …I put something together that I knew Jordan was going to shine no matter what.” —Ezra (30:13)

Reaction to High Praise

• Carrie Ann’s standing ovation:

  “Kerrianne said that that was the best freestyle she's seen in 20 seasons. What does that mean to you?” —Joey (31:10)
  “It means everything…it means the world.” —Jordan (31:15)

Instant Tango: Last-Minute Ad-Lib

• Improvised during their instant tango and still received perfect scores:

  “I looked at her, I said, improvise…And we delivered. Perfect score.” —Ezra (32:10)

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5. Alex & Val: Transformation, Vulnerability, and a Pop Star Moment

Personal Growth

• Alex reflects on the life-changing impact and newfound confidence:

  “It’s been like one of the best things I’ve ever done in my life…helped me grow…it’s given me a confidence that…proving to myself, proving to others that, like, I can work hard at something and succeed at it.” —Alex (32:40)

Coaching Style—Building Trust

• Val discusses pacing his intensity and pushing Alex only as the trust grew:

  “I’m better at getting to know each other, earning my voice, earning my demand. …I was able to pace it better this season and not completely kill her spirit before she’s gained momentum.” —Val (34:23)

Comfort and Vulnerability

• Alex had to learn not to take Val’s intensity personally:

  “He’s, like, yelling at me for the dance, and then…you just have to get in that mindset…he’s frustrated about these steps, not me as a person.” —Alex (36:22)

Raw Emotional Moments

• Alex describes crying in her car and being comforted by production—a process that led to honest vulnerability on TV:

  “It was a beautiful thing because…I think it shows the other side of this, which is the…hard work and determination…and it’s frustrating at times…” —Alex (37:48)

Freestyle Inspiration

• Val wanted to give Alex a true “pop star moment,” echoing the season’s start, but with real confidence.

  “We opened the show with a really pop star moment that she…wasn’t ready for internally…now I think she’s ready…” —Val (38:43)

Parting Words

• Val’s gratitude:

  “You don’t always have moments like that. Freestyle…I only can do that with you…so that, to me, is the win. That, to me, is a personal trophy.” —Val (41:55)

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6. Robert & Whitney: Champions’ Perspective—Joy, Authenticity, and Leaving it All on the Floor

Season-long Energy and Joy

• Robert’s infectious enthusiasm was apparent to all, including Whitney, who doubted anyone could be so nice at first:

  “When I first met him, I was like, no one can be this nice…as the days have gone by, it just. It is just who he is…authentically Robert just excited about life, about everything. It's so infectious.” —Whitney (49:33)

The Viral Jive

• Their very first dance, the jive, went viral and set the tone for the season:

  “That jive, I think, will always be probably the most special dance for me.” —Robert (46:27)

Dedication Dance and Grieving Through Dance

• The dance dedicated to Robert’s mother was a profound, vulnerable experience.

  “[The dedication dance]…was a real story of grief and loss that we didn’t want to shy away from, but we wanted to look at that story through the lens of here’s the person who lifted me out of that.” —Robert (51:47)

• Whitney felt responsible for crafting a dance that would help others as well as tell Robert’s story.

  “I think there was a lot of responsibility in making sure that I tell Robert's story, but also that we created something that would be helpful for others so that they could find their own strength and that they could connect to…" —Whitney (52:48)

Gratitude Upon Winning

• Robert’s final words as champion:

  “Just incredibly grateful…that I got to have this journey with such an amazing group of people that gave it everything…” —Robert (54:42)

• Whitney reciprocates:

  “I honestly can’t think of anyone more deserving than Robert and the Irwin family. Like they are just so pure and kind and this season has been so special to me…I’ll remember it forever.” —Whitney (55:09)

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

| Timestamp | Speaker | Quote | |-----------|---------------|-------| | 02:31 | Alan | “I want this so bad for her. I want Elaine to feel the achievement, the glory...” | | 10:41 | Alan | “You’ll see me on tour.” | | 19:00 | Dylan/Daniella| “Our fans called it the airwalk, but where did that come from?” | | 30:51 | Ezra | “I put something together that I knew Jordan was going to shine no matter what.” | | 41:55 | Val | “…you don’t always have moments like that. Freestyle. I only can do that with you…that, to me, is a personal trophy.” | | 46:27 | Robert | “That jive, I think, will always be probably the most special dance for me.” | | 49:33 | Whitney | “I was like, no one can be this nice…as the days have gone by, it just. It is just who he is…” | | 51:47 | Robert | “[Dedication dance]…was a real story of grief and loss…but we wanted to look at that story through the lens of here’s the person who lifted me out of that.” | | 54:42 | Robert | “Just incredibly grateful and so grateful…that I got to have this journey with such an amazing group of people that gave it everything.” |

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Key Timestamps by Segment

• Elaine & Alan: Rediscovering Dance (01:55–11:16, 44:30–47:20)
• Dylan & Daniella: Zero Experience to Finalist (11:51–21:40)
• Jordan & Ezra: Friendship & Family in Dance (23:25–32:14)
• Alex & Val: Transformation (32:14–42:47)
• Robert & Whitney: Winning & Legacy (44:11–55:24)

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Tone & Style

The episode is emotional and celebratory, balancing humor and honesty. Joey’s relaxed, friendly interviewing style helps the finalists open up about struggles, growth, and what made Season 34 special. The episode is rich in personal anecdotes, gratitude, and creative process, ideal for both longtime fans and newcomers.

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For Listeners: Why This Finale Was Unforgettable

This episode captures the magic, vulnerability, and triumph of Dancing with the Stars. The finalists reflect deeply on their personal growth, the challenges of the show, and the irreplaceable bonds formed on and off the dance floor. The moments of raw honesty and mutual admiration—punctuated by viral dance moves, creative storytelling, and heartfelt gratitude—make for an inspiring sendoff to an extraordinary season.

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Transcript

[Joey Gros]

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[Elaine]

He made up this, like, university that my character went to to study aliens.

[Daniella]

Jump up and do this. And then I, like, oddly, like, throw my arms out and it's like, oh, that's beautiful. Keep that.

[Danny]

I thought I had enough choreo planned for 50 seconds. I did not.

[Joey Gros]

And I feel like it was a faked confidence, which I think is kind of how I was just going about.

[Whitney]

Life when I first met him. I was like, no one can be this nice.

[Joey Gros]

Welcome to finale night here on the Dance with the Stars official podcast sponsored by Sonic. What an incredible finale. We got more than double the amount of votes that we had last year's season finale, and there was more than half a billion votes across the entire season. I'm here right now outside the studio waiting for the finalists to come out, and I'm about to give you exclusive access like you have never seen before. I'll be riding with the finalists to the private jet to send them off to New York City for their appearance on Good Morning America. All season long, I've been bringing you interviews with past celebrities, pros, champions, behind the scenes crew, and this season's cast. But tonight, it's all about our season 34 finalists. Elaine and Allen, Dylan and Daniella, Jordan and Ezra, Alex and Val, and of course, our season 34 champions, Robert and Whitney. Earlier this week, I got the chance to sit down with them all to get their thoughts on how they were feeling going into tonight's finale. You'll be seeing those interviews throughout the show. Up first, here's a look at my chat with Elaine and Alan. Hi, Elaine. Hi, Alan. How are we doing?

[Elaine]

Yeah, doing great.

[Joey Gros]

Good. How's it feeling coming into finale week right now? What's the thoughts? What's the feelings that we're having?

[Elaine]

Well, there were. I had a few sleepless nights and then I was like. I felt like I was spiraling out of control. But I got a good night's rest now. I have a whole new lease on life and I'm just really determined to enjoy, like, these last moments.

[Joey Gros]

One of my favorite things last week, Alan, was your reaction when you guys got into the finale. You were. Every emotion was coming out. You looked excited, you were emotional in terms of Like, I think you cried a little bit, which is. I love it. What was going through your head at that time?

[Alan]

You know, I think I've been in a few finales now. I think this season is by far the toughest one. You know, every week has felt like a semifinals. So then when you're actually in the semifinals, you're like, anyone could go home. Anyone can make it. Anyone can go home. We don't know the votes, the leaderboard is what it is. So it's like you just kind of. You hope for the best. And I gotta spend all 13 weeks. Cause of the two weeks of rehearsal with Elaine, and it's like, I want this so bad for her. I want Elaine to feel the achievement, the glory, the. The results that she deserves. You know, Elaine put in so much work. She was persistent, you know, resilient through the injuries. It's such a hard show, you know how hard it is. And for her to do it and make it look fun and joyful the whole time, I just wanted her to feel the finale.

[Joey Gros]

And Elaine, I think not only. One of the things I think from this whole season that I noticed too, was your love of dance and how you've been able to find it again.

[Jordan]

Yeah.

[Joey Gros]

What has that been like for you? Cause that's been a story since week one. How you didn't know if you're ever gonna be able to do this again. How has that been?

[Elaine]

Yeah, Ellen and I laugh all the time because, like, I'm constantly getting little nicks, and she's very injury prone. And the reason is because I throw myself into everything. If I commit to something, I'm all in. And so I was all in with dance out of high school and then into my early 20s. Like, that was gonna be my life.

[Danny]

And.

[Elaine]

And I literally had to pivot when I was hit by a car, which I say now. And it's like. It's just. It's so crazy. Like, that's just such a crazy event to happen in your life. And I never thought that I would be here again. And now here I am. And I've never done ballroom, so it was like kind of a double. Like, okay, let's really see what I can do. And it's really because of Alan, who every week, every Wednesday and Thursday, I was crying. I was like, I couldn't do it. I hate. It was so hard. And then by Friday, it was like, oh, okay, I can do this. And he kept holding the vision. And as you know, like, it's just. It's so emotional. And it's like I wanted so much for myself. I had so much passion for it, so I really cared and I wanted it to be the best that it could because I do love dance so much. And now here we are. Like, wow.

[Daniella]

Yeah.

[Joey Gros]

I think the part too is your love of dance, but also your love of performing. I think that was the thing that I noticed most from the first dance that you did. There was a sparkle about you when you're on stage and how excited you were to be able to show this love of dance. What's next for you now? After getting this feeling of the show, what do you look forward to doing?

[Elaine]

Going back to my roots to do more theater.

[Joey Gros]

Amazing.

[Elaine]

Yeah. I got my eyes on Broadway, some stuff in the works there, and then more live performing. I just, I've done film and TV for so long and I've done a lot of theater along the way, but I'm ready like this, this exchange between the audience and me when you perform, like, there is nothing like that. And so right now I just want more of that in my life.

[Joey Gros]

So, yeah, that is going to be great. But now we need to talk about the freestyle. I feel like that's huge because this is the last dance. This is something that you guys have built. I heard Lisa Anne is in the freestyle. Can I hear more about what you guys are planning, what you're excited about with this freestyle in particular?

[Elaine]

Yeah, both Lisa and Andy.

[Joey Gros]

Amazing.

[Danny]

Yeah.

[Elaine]

And so kind of them to come make essentially came in my freestyle. And then the 8 combination of pros and troupe and guest dancers. Alan put so much thought and care into this. We went through so many songs and ideas, and I feel like he has captured what has been my life for three plus decades and down to like two minutes to tell this story. And I just think he's done an incredible job. And then watching all the elements come together and everybody attending to it with such thought and care, like, I, I, I mean this is, this is a once in a lifetime event and it's epic and I'm, I'm just beyond grateful for it all.

[Danny]

Yeah.

[Joey Gros]

Allan, how, how did it feel bringing it all together?

[Alan]

Stressful. We're on V12 of the song, so 12 different versions of the song.

[Joey Gros]

Crazy.

[Alan]

But you know what it again, my first thought of, like, when they asked us what you want to do for the freestyle, I was like, this isn't about me as much as it is about our partnership. I want Elaine to have this special moment, you know, So I was like, what's gonna make her stand out. She is Hollywood, you know, she is such an incredible actress. I wanted to do something with Hollywood and I was like, I love old Hollywood, you know, and I want it to be like the whole process of, you know, in the waiting room for the audition, doing the audition, getting the role, doing the big part, the big, the big scene. So it's all of that. It's a lot of storytelling. And all season long, Elaine and I, for every dance, we make a story. You know, when we were in Disney for the quick Step, we had a whole backstory about how I'm the alien. And Elaine went to.

[Danny]

Yeah.

[Elaine]

Do you remember he made up this, like, university that my character went to to study aliens.

[Joey Gros]

And then we got deep.

[Elaine]

We were in a roll.

[Alan]

I forgot what it was called.

[Joey Gros]

It was like the Galactic Community.

[Alan]

The Galactic Community College online of the arts.

[Joey Gros]

Sounds like a great school.

[Alan]

It was a great school. And, you know, she trained to interact with aliens, but this was her first.

[Robert]

Time, you know, actually seeing an alien.

[Alan]

Yeah. So we made a lot of stories throughout every dance and I was like, I want to do that in this dance. I want to make sure we have a fun story to tell.

[Joey Gros]

Yeah.

[Alan]

Freestyle is going to be epic.

[Joey Gros]

It's the biggest story yet. It's the most important one. And it's so special. You guys get to do that in the. It's special that you've made it about your journey, your partnership. I know you guys are gonna crush it. And again, it really has been fun, Elaine, to see you find your love of dance again, to see how much joy you get on the dance floor. And you guys partnership was awesome. So I appreciate you taking the time out of the busy schedule. Good luck with this week, but thank you for being here, guys. Thank you. The finalists are about to arrive and at any minute I'll be chatting with them on their way to the private jet to New York City right after this. What is more perfect than an ice cold Coca Cola? Well, Sonic has taken a classic and remixed it Dance with the stars style. We're talking Coke with green apple and lime, coconut and sweet cream or even cranberry with lime. Smooth, refreshing and made to match your vibe. Mine this week is a green apple and sweet cream. So whether you're celebrating a perfect 10 or just kicking back right after the show, grab a free Coca Cola your way, any size, any flavor in the Sonic app. Live free Eat Sonic limited time offer. See you out for details. Hi, Elaine and Alan. Elaine, I'm coming to you. I think one of the coolest Things of tonight is that you got announced that you're going on tour. How excited are you to be hosting?

[Elaine]

I am so excited. I can't wait for it. I'm going to be out on, like, for, like, six weeks.

[Joey Gros]

Yeah. I'm so. Oh, no. We had a spill. I'm so proud of you guys. I feel like this season was incredible for both of you. I just want. Alan, what was that? Freestyle. Like, how did it feel?

[Alan]

It felt amazing. Honestly, I wanted to make something for Elaine, and I think she was a total star out there. And so, you know, at the end of the day, you'll look back at all of these dances and be proud of yourself.

[Joey Gros]

And that's all I wanted.

[Alan]

And I think that. I think we accomplished that.

[Joey Gros]

I agree. You have so much to be proud of. Elaine. I just want to know, what are you going to miss most? Alan, good answer.

[Alan]

You'll see me on tour.

[Joey Gros]

I know you're not going to be able to get rid of them. I can promise you that.

[Elaine]

No, that's. That's totally fine. It's really. I'm going to miss the people. You know, I'm going to keep dancing. I'm going to keep performing. All of that will remain. So it's just, you know, these very special, unique people who work on this show that I see every day that I get to say hi and bye to and learn about their lives.

[Alan]

So, yeah, Joey loved me so much. He moved right next door to me.

[Joey Gros]

I literally haven't left. I've been in the ballroom. I'm right next to you on the street. It's just. I'm just here. I just stick around. I've done too much. But seriously, I. I love you guys. Congrats on an amazing season. Seriously. Thank you, guys. Up next, we have our chat with Dylan and Danielle. Hi, guys. How are you doing? Good, good, good. I really just want to talk about the whole experience of this. I'm starting with you, Dylan, because it's unique that we actually chatted before this whole season started. If you didn't know. Dylan reached out to me and just wanted to know what he could expect. And I would have to say I probably hyped up this as much as possible. I told you that this was going to be the best experience of your life. You're going to be telling me I can't even hype it up enough. But did I. Did I hype it up too much? Like, how has this experience really been for you?

[Daniella]

No, because you knew I was on the fence and then I heard you talk about it and it was the same way that Dina spoke about it. Just immediate passion about how just this entire experience changed your life. And I like, I was already leaning towards doing it at that point and you just sealed the deal. So it's been everything I thought and more. And I think the best part was you guys prepped me for how hard it was because that no one would expect how hard this is.

[Joey Gros]

And we'll say it again because I feel like there isn't enough to talk about with that. People talk about how this is such a tough experience, how much time and energy are put into it. You guys are literally the same person right now. Hugging your emotional support pillow. I was like, this has been the longest week of my life. How are we feeling right now with finale week? Because you guys have a lot coming into this.

[Danny]

Dani.

[Joey Gros]

Like there's six dances you need to prep for. That is crazy to think about in five days. Crazy to think about. How are we feeling right now with all of that?

[Jordan]

Stressed and tired, but it's bittersweet. Cause the season was so great and it's coming to an end.

[Joey Gros]

It's crazy. So I want to take some time to talk about what you've been able to accomplish. Getting to hear Daniel. I'm coming back to you because everyone's talked about he had zero dance experience and that's a huge thing. But to see where you've come to see you, how you've coached him, how was it teaching him different dance styles and having him at a base of no dance experience whatsoever.

[Jordan]

I love it. I thrive on a challenge. So I feel like, you know, would I want somebody with dance experience probably in the future. But I love starting from scratch because there's no bad habits, you know, so he's always the last one to leave the studio. He's in his knee pads in his apartment, like practicing his stuff. Like he's just so hard working. And when a partner is like that, it's so much easier as an experience for me too. And when they're hard headed and they don't really want it, that's when it gets tough.

[Joey Gros]

Yeah. Where do you think that comes from, Dylan?

[Daniella]

I think that's always been how I am. I love just, I love focusing on one thing. I'm like terrible at multitasking. So when I can.

[Jordan]

So six dances this week.

[Daniella]

So when I can fully dedicate myself to something, that's why I thrive.

[Joey Gros]

Yeah.

[Daniella]

But I, I think going back to that question about the no dance experience, like that's been the biggest thing I've noticed from the beginning of this to the end was I remember talking to you about how our week schedule was and that we're learning the dance on, like, Saturday. And that's the hardest part. As a non like, I I, it's hard for me to do a TikTok. Like, it takes me like 30 minutes.

[Joey Gros]

Hate Tik tok dances. Love ballroom dancing. Hate tik tok dances. So we'd rather do that.

[Daniella]

So the learning the choreo, taking three, four days, gives us only like a day or two of perfecting. That's been the hardest part and that's the growth that we've had is like, now we can learn the choreo in a day or two and then we can start polishing earlier. So that's been the coolest growth.

[Joey Gros]

Well, and that's the beauty of the show too, is as soon as you start to get comfortable, they start adding dances and they start adding elements and surprises because it is supposed to take you out of that comfort level. Where have you seen his confidence change the most?

[Jordan]

I feel like when his sister was in our dance is when I first saw it for the first time because he had to step up and be that big brother to her and be confident himself. So I feel like that was the first time he was really shining is when he was in the studio with her and he was so confident and just like moving her around, showing her what to do, and she was just.

[Joey Gros]

Like, okay, the cutest thing ever. I was gonna bring that up. When you look back on the season in general, is there any style, any dance that you really hold on to? I'll be the first to admit I still go back and like, look at my old dances. It's like a bad habit of mine that I'll just like, scroll through Instagram, be like, that one's pretty good. So, like, it's gonna happen. But if you think back now, what are the ones you're, like, most excited about to look back on?

[Daniella]

So dance style. Like, we have paso this week. I really like the paso and I really like the Argentine tango, but I have the most fun with the samba and cha cha.

[Joey Gros]

Yeah, I loved your cha cha.

[Daniella]

I'm really hoping to get that for the instant because I'll just be laughing the whole time.

[Joey Gros]

Yeah, instant dance is a good thing to bring up too. How has that been this week? Getting prepared for that? Because instant crazy.

[Daniella]

It's been chaos. But we've flip flop so many times. Like when we first chose, I was Like, I want foxtrot or quickstep because they're in frame. I'm comfortable now. I'm like, those are so boring. Like, I want to go out there and just laugh.

[Joey Gros]

Yeah.

[Daniella]

And like samba and cha cha. Like, that will be.

[Joey Gros]

It'll be fun and. And that's part of it too. There is supposed to be chaos in the instant, but there is. From doing it, I can tell you there is something about it. Even when it's chaotic, it will probably be one of the things you remember most from the experience.

It's so fun.

Let's get into finale week now, too, because, as we said, there's a lot leading up to it. I want to talk a little about the freestyle. It's something different that I don't think you've ever done before on the show. Where did this come from? How did we get the idea of it? And how are we feeling about coming into the freestyle? As of right now, today, I feel.

[Jordan]

Like our journey, just knowing Dylan as a person, too. He's so chill.

[Joey Gros]

Yeah.

[Jordan]

So I feel like anything originally, I wanted to do step up. That was my original plan.

[Joey Gros]

Okay.

[Jordan]

And, like, having, like, this B boy vibe just. I feel like it was very appropriate for us. But at the same time, I was like, this is about him and his journey. And he felt the best doing the contemporary and barefoot and free and not perfect and just going raw and just emotional. So I was like, I think that is where we go with this, because he feels good in it. It's not about me, and I've done every freestyle I've done so far has been upbeat and just fun. And I feel like this is more storytelling and just heartfelt, and I feel like that was our journey. It wasn't easy, but we got here and he had no dance experience. But hopefully we just tell a story with our freestyle. But it's very different for me.

[Joey Gros]

It is so slow. You guys are going to be the most unique because it is. It is way different than everyone else. I think that's special, too. And your experience was different than everyone else, as you said. So I love the full circle story of it. Are there moments in this dance or things that you are, like, thinking about or most excited about or things that have been a little challenging getting into this week?

[Daniella]

Contemporary beats your body.

[Joey Gros]

Yes. So that.

[Daniella]

That on top of the other dances, this. My body's at its limits right now. So that's the only drawback.

[Alan]

The.

[Daniella]

The beauty and why I love contemporary is like, this whole learning the choreo and Stuff. And it's like, I. They're like. Like, Daniel will be like, all right, so jump up here. And then I jump up and do a spin. And, like, by accident. And she's like, keep that like that. Like, that's contemporary.

[Jordan]

That's her whole journey, though.

[Joey Gros]

Like, do that again.

Cha Cha.

[Jordan]

Keeping it.

[Daniella]

And then it's like, jump up and do this. And then I, like, oddly, like, throw my arms out, and it's like, oh, that's beautiful. Keep that. And it's like, there's no rules. And after a whole season of just, like, drilling these rules, to be able to go out there and just do what your body wants is so refreshing. So that's why I love, like, dancing the contemporary. It's just, like, expression.

[Joey Gros]

We have to talk about the viral move. I feel like every time in choreography, you have this idea of this could be really cool. But you guys had the most viral move of the season. What have you called it now?

[Jordan]

The airwalk.

[Danny]

The airwalk.

[Daniella]

We didn't call it.

[Val]

Hey, hey.

[Danny]

Sorry.

[Joey Gros]

Our fans called it the airwalk, but where did that come from? Can you give me a little more, like, background on that, Danny?

[Jordan]

It was so musical to just, like, pedal my feet. I don't know. And then we kind of just tried it, and it worked.

[Daniella]

You know, this with. With your experience, but the, like, throughout the week, you get stronger, and it's, like, crazy. So, like, we haven't worked out our forearms the entire season. We go that week, we try that lift, and it was, like, stiff. And when Danny would kick, I'd be like, oh, it's a little awkward. And there was a day before the show, we were just, like, filming some stuff. We were hanging out, and we were practicing it, and she felt as light as a feather. It was just like, oh, I'm stronger than before. So I was like, let's go lower. And we just were, like, doing it for fun. And then I think that translated to stage because within the week, we just got so much better at it. I got stronger, and then it turned out great.

[Joey Gros]

That's awesome.

[Jordan]

I also got stronger.

[Joey Gros]

You know, in general, I hope you are leaving this experience as excited as you were in the beginning when we talked about it, because I do remember when I hung up that phone, I was like, he's gonna have the best time. And I'm so happy you got Danny as a partner. I'm so happy this friendship has come together and where it's come to, and you're part of the family now. Every time you come back. It's gonna feel like that. And. Yeah. I hope you've been able to reflect on how special of a journey this has been for you this week.

[Jordan]

Thank you.

[Joey Gros]

Thank you, Jerry. I am here on the bumpy bus right now with Team Daddy, Dylan and Daniella. Dylan, I gotta ask you first thing. Dylan. Dylan. Not Dylan.

[Jordan]

Sorry.

[Joey Gros]

Derek said that that was the best foxtrot he's seen by a male. And it was an instant dance. How I did a good fox shot. I'm aware. But he got the new record.

[Daniella]

I. We looked at each other when we got fox shot.

[Alan]

We did.

[Daniella]

We barely practiced it, so I'm proud of how we went out there and did it. Yeah, that's. That's about all I can say. I don't really remember too much.

[Joey Gros]

It was unreal. What was that like for you in that moment?

Mortifying.

[Jordan]

I. I like one of the. I did not want a fox shot cuz I felt like first of all.

[Joey Gros]

Our fox shot was slow, like, you.

[Jordan]

Know, and I wasn't sure what we were gonna get, but I just. I knew I didn't want that. But the song was really great.

[Daniella]

Yeah, it was what we were thinking. It was like when you're doing a cha cha or samba, you can be loose with it and have fun with it. We're like, foxtrot. You have to be in frame. There's rules. And we're like, oh, we didn't practice this nearly enough. And then it went well.

[Joey Gros]

Last question for you. They really touched on tonight how much you turn into a performer, a dancer. Like, did you ever expect to feel the way you did in this finale?

[Alan]

No.

[Daniella]

And maybe that's why I signed on for the show, is I. Maybe I always knew I had it in me, but Danny had to pull it out from deep within my toes.

[Joey Gros]

We got there.

We got there for sure.

Well, you have so much to be proud of. Honestly, you guys had an amazing season. It's amazing that you got fourth. I think he just. I'm happy for you guys. And I'm gonna be hanging out with Dylan all the time now too. So that's coming to play, guys. Stay tuned because up next, I have my chat with Jordan and Ezra.

[Jordan]

Jordan, I'm hearing it. Hi, chat.

[Joey Gros]

It was so great catching up with Elaine and Al, Dylan and Daniella. But there's still plenty more to come, including my chat with Jordan and Ezra and Alex and Val. And coming up, I'll be chatting with the Len Goodman Mirrorball winners, Robert and Whitney. You do not want to miss that. So good, so good, so good.

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Ezra and Jordan, how are we doing, guys? I'm so glad you're sitting here. I'm glad we're sitting here in this way. Ezra just said earlier he didn't want to be in the studio because it usually means that you. You were eliminated.

[Danny]

Hail to the no.

[Joey Gros]

I did not want to be in.

[Danny]

This seat until we absolutely had to.

[Joey Gros]

This is the time. This is the good time to be here. But I love your partnership. It's probably. I will be biased. It's my favorite of this season. There's just something different about you, too, and how friendly you guys actually are and how close you have gotten. Did you expect that when you came on the season that you guys are going to get along this well, Jordan, or was it kind of a surprise that you connected this much well, walking.

[Jordan]

Through the door during our first Heart to Heart one. I did watch Ezra's season last year and just like, his ability to really, like, yes, things happen, but, like, change his whole game of being, you know, part of the show and doing everything he had to do with all the way until the end. I knew his energy was very high, like, up there. So walking through the door, I was like, you know what? This dude is like, he matches me. Like, he matches my energy. And just from there on, from our heart to heart to every single day, it was just a lot of fun and a lot of energy. And I think it was a surprise in a sense of, okay, who was gonna be my partner because everybody is different on the show, but not so much because I felt like I had a gut feeling that I was gonna get somebody like him.

[Joey Gros]

Yeah.

[Jordan]

Because of how big my personality is and how, like, I can really, you know, put myself out there.

[Joey Gros]

I think that's the way to the word it, though, is you guys match each other's energy. Oh, yeah, for sure. I think it was a story earlier in the season. I saw you were over Ezra and you made him dinner, or I don't know if you were over his. I saw that, and I was like, oh, these two are gonna get close this season. That was the light bulb for me when I saw that.

[Jordan]

Those moments, I think, is what. Is how the show is truly all about. And I'm not just saying that for our partnership, but just like, seeing everybody else's partnerships, I'm just like, it's the little things that happen outside of the show that people truly enjoy. And I think that day, too, like, him being like, you're gonna cook for me. Like, he found out I know how to cook, so he was like, are you gonna ever cook?

[Danny]

And she can cook.

[Joey Gros]

Yeah.

[Jordan]

And so I did. And from there on, it was like, okay. Like, I had him at my Halloween.

[Danny]

Party that I had, and that was lit.

[Joey Gros]

He throws.

[Danny]

She throws a good party, and she goes down. She was throwing it back all night. I was shook. I was like, oh, so this is going to be her freestyle period.

[Joey Gros]

Got it. That's where the inspiration came from. That's amazing.

[Danny]

I was like, oh, this is going to be like.

[Jordan]

But don't get it twisted now.

[Joey Gros]

We.

[Jordan]

We did headbutt a few times.

[Joey Gros]

It's part of it.

[Danny]

It's part of the process.

[Joey Gros]

It's. It would. It wouldn't be authentic if you weren't. But that's when you really actually start connecting with someone is when you start having your own opinions. You start actually trying to morph and have this experience together.

[Whitney]

Yeah.

[Joey Gros]

And that's what you feel.

[Danny]

If I can speak openly. I wish they showed more of that.

[Joey Gros]

Yeah, yeah.

[Danny]

Like. Cause I'm not afraid to talk about the hardships that we've had, because those are, like you said, so important to what truly shapes a good partnership. And I feel like when you watch the show, it's like, yeah, it's very light heart. It's really fun. But I feel like, like, in the past, you had those really, like, hard times that they were showing in those packages, and it just made good tv. But also it helped establish a stronger connection with the audience, to the partnerships.

[Joey Gros]

Is there a dance that you guys look back on now and think about as, like, maybe one of your favorite collaborations or styles that you did?

[Jordan]

I would probably say the Rumba.

[Danny]

The Rumba.

[Joey Gros]

I thank you for saying the rumba. Thank you for Saying that, the rumba. I feel like that was such a special dance that you guys did.

[Jordan]

Thank you.

[Danny]

It was weird because, like, when it came to all the songs from Wicked, like, that was probably the one that we didn't want. Like, honestly, it didn't. Like, when they just didn't fit. Like, her vibe.

[Jordan]

Yeah.

[Danny]

But when we understood the. The story of For Good, I was like, this is our relationship. Yeah. And it fits. It fit it perfectly.

[Joey Gros]

And you did it in your way, too, because you had the moment where you had the finger hold.

[Daniella]

Like, you.

[Danny]

Should we tell them?

[Joey Gros]

Them.

[Danny]

Should we tell them?

[Joey Gros]

Please tell us.

[Danny]

So they asked us to take it out.

[Joey Gros]

Really?

[Danny]

And so they're like, we originally had.

[Jordan]

It at the end.

[Danny]

At the end. And they asked us to take it out. And so we're on the drive and they said. Well, they didn't say, we can put it anywhere else.

[Joey Gros]

There you go. So we put it in the middle and stuff. I love it.

[Jordan]

But the story is the. The reason why they want to take us out. Take it out. And I think we should explain this so it doesn't seem.

[Danny]

No, yeah. 100. Their reason was solid.

[Jordan]

The reason was solid is because we were explaining the part two of Wicked.

[Joey Gros]

Right.

[Jordan]

Right. We were the last song in Wicked 2, and that was from Wicked, the first one, the original. And they didn't want us to end like that because that's not how.

[Danny]

It's not. It's not how that story was in the storyline.

[Joey Gros]

And they were telling a story that night.

[Jordan]

Exactly.

[Joey Gros]

But it was good because it was usually a different handhold. It was in it and it fit naturally. The music. And it was like a little Easter egg.

[Danny]

Really nice.

[Jordan]

And I'm happy because people did find the Easter egg, like, it was crazy. They were like, wait. They collected.

[Joey Gros]

One of my favorite parts about this season was every single time after your dance, they always go to your family and they go to your mom and dad. And your dad is always. I always notice him. He just looks so happy and so proud of you. What has it been like having his support this season?

[Jordan]

It's been.

[Joey Gros]

And your mom, too, obviously.

[Jordan]

Literally, these. I wouldn't change the world for anything that they've done. I have the best parents out there. My mom has never missed anything in my career, so to know that she was like, I'm coming to every show. I do not care what you say. She did this when I was on tour as well. And I was like, lady, this is a lot of shows. Girly pop. Like, this is 10 weeks, 11 weeks straight. Like, okay. But I think what made it even more special was having my dad and my dad during dedication night. And just to see the joy and pride of him really feeling accomplished and feeling like he did something within himself is what made me feel very proud to be his daughter. And just to see the joy that they have on their face. And that was the biggest thing that they always told us is, like, no matter what, we're always going to be proud of you. You just keep doing what you do. So. I love them so much. So, dear, like, it's pretty cool to know that they have been literally with me since I was born.

[Joey Gros]

Yeah. You can feel the support. You can feel the belief they have in you and how proud they are. So it's been cool just to get the little glimpse of it every week. And to see what you guys did in the dedication dance was amazing, too. It was so special.

[Danny]

I think that was my favorite dance I choreographed this season.

[Joey Gros]

Yeah. Well, we gotta talk about this week now. In the finale week, getting into the.

[Jordan]

Freestyle, basically what this freestyle is is about my full story. Throughout season, we've been saying, you know, tiny pieces, but now it's time to say the full thing.

[Joey Gros]

That's awesome. How'd you feel about putting it all together?

[Danny]

Oh, it was probably the funnest part of this whole season, especially because I've never done a freestyle before. And I definitely feel like what I love most about what I've come to discover about a freestyle is, yes, it's about me, but it's their journey. And so I really had to sit there and be like, k, what. What form of freestyle is going to work best for Jordan? And I mean, like. Like, we're throwing it back in this freestyle. I don't have a butt. Like, that's really hard for me. Like, that's like, I put something together that is not my strong suit at all. Like, I put something together that I knew Jordan was going to shine no matter what.

[Joey Gros]

No. You guys have so, so much to be proud of this season. I love the partnership. I know you guys are going to be friends for life. Come on. There it is. But seriously, thank you for speaking with me. I know it's a busy week, but I'm glad I got you. Hi, Jordan. Hi, Ezra. How we doing? First thing I have to ask.

[Jordan]

Yeah.

[Joey Gros]

Kerrianne said that that was the best freestyle she's seen in 20 seasons. What does that mean to you?

[Jordan]

It means everything. I mean, for me to be not knowing if I was ever gonna make the finale and now having an iconic freestyle, it means the world. You know, you go into this as like being a little girl who's dreamed of something, and now you have really, you know, enjoyed the reality of it. So I wouldn't change anything about any experience. To all the cast. You guys are amazing, especially the final five. Like, we dominated in everything that we did. And honestly, that mirror ball was up for grabs. And so I'm very, very proud.

[Joey Gros]

You should be proud. And I need to come to Ezra on this because he told me that you guys literally ad libbed the rest of that tango in the instant dance. Can I just hear a little bit about what happened in that tango?

[Jordan]

I basically led the whole tango, essentially.

[Danny]

So basically what happened was I thought I had enough choreo planned for 50 seconds. I did not. So we went through once and I said, oh, I don't have enough choreo for this.

[Joey Gros]

And then I looked at Jordan and.

[Danny]

It was like 10, nine. I looked at her, I said, improvise.

[Joey Gros]

And we delivered.

Perfect score.

[Jordan]

Yes, we did.

[Joey Gros]

Well, you guys enjoy it. Thank you for talking to me. And then up next, guys, we have our chat with Val and Alex. Alex and Val, thank you for being here. So excited to talk with you guys today. The first thing I want to talk about is you've been doing a really good job over the last few weeks. I think being present, understanding that this is, like, coming to an end, you're excited, you're sad. How did that come together? Like, what? In this experience in general, why do you think it's been so special?

I've been. It's hard for me to put into words exactly like, what this has all meant to me. And I've been obviously doing a lot of reflecting the past week, but, I mean, I knew it was gonna come to an end. And I think I started the past few weeks to try to, like, mentally prepare myself for it coming to an end because I've been so happy. And this is just. It's been like one of the best things I've ever done in my life and making like a best friend along the way and just going in every day so excited. It was a completely new day to day routine for me and it's just helped me grow, it's helped me understand myself and it's given me, like, a confidence that, I don't know, I guess just like, proving to myself, proving to others that, like, I can work hard at something and succeed at it. And I don't know, it's been just a beautiful, transformative Three months for me, and I know that it's gonna be really sad for me when it's over. So I've just been trying to, like, prepare myself the past few weeks, and that's where some of the tears have come out.

Yeah, it's good. Like I said, it's natural. I love that you've been able to do that. And, Val, you've had a lot of times. I mean, we've talked about this a million times, but you put a lot of pressure on yourself. I feel like throughout this, because you want to make sure that your partners have the best experience possible. But I noticed there was kind of a shift this season where you also really started challenging Alex more and trying to get the most out of this partnership and this experience. When do you think that happened? Why do you think that happened? I'd love to, like, learn more about that.

[Val]

Yeah, I mean, I always looked at baseball and I'm like, why do they call them managers versus coaches? Or, you know, and it's like, because they're managing beyond just coaching the techniques and the mechanics. Like, they're managing the seven or the nine innings the same way I'm managing an 11 week game, hopefully marathon, one week at a time. And so I've made the mistake too, of exhausting my partner's excitement with my brutal, you know, pushing very early on. So I try to. I'm better at getting to know each other, earning my voice, earning my demand. Yeah, that arrived, I think around week four or five. I just think I. I was able to pace it better this season and not completely kill her spirit before she's gained some momentum and some excitement for what, what this, this feels like and.

[Joey Gros]

Looks like it's a good way to think about it because you. You also build, I think, confidence in that time. It's not just about getting and getting the comfort, but there's a confidence level that comes out of it. When do you think that happened for you, Alex? Is there still a moment you think back on where you really felt like you started to trust Val, you gained that confidence and really wanted him to start pushing you?

I don't know. I think it was though, maybe Disney week. We did like that maleficent dance and people really loved it. And for me, that felt so rewarding, or I guess I kind of felt that confidence for the first time of like, oh, wow, I can like, put out a dance that everyone's like, oh, I want to watch this on repeat. And that was just like a crazy concept for me.

But.

But I don't know. I mean, it's.

[Val]

I mean, to me, that's also a sign of my excitement and my pride and my confidence. I'm not pushing somebody that I know can't do it. I'm pushing someone that I believe in, and I'm excited to surprise them with this. You know, I'm trying to facilitate a surprising, fulfilling moment for her and for myself in the process, obviously.

[Joey Gros]

Well, I was also gonna say it's takes a minute, I guess, for me at least, too, of, like, this isn't my normal every day. But, like, not taking things personally, you know, like, he's, like, yelling at me for the dance and then learning. Like, it just takes a minute. Like, at first, I'm just like, oh, gosh. Like, I'm like, he hates me. I'm a terrible person because I can't do this wrong day, right? And then I'm like, okay, it's. That's. I don't know. You just have to get in that mindset of, like, he's there frustrated about these steps, not as me as a person. So I think that, like, also took a minute for me to understand as well.

[Val]

I. I think again, I think on paper, when you look at us, you kind of see two very different people. But. And. And we are. But I think the common ground that people don't know is. Is the region where we kind of grew up. She's from Jersey. I grew up in Brooklyn, then in Jersey for a while. Kind of. I don't know. The landscape and the people and the attitude, I feel, like, allowed her to be a lot better at not taking me so personally.

[Joey Gros]

Yeah, the comfort came in the brutal honesty. It's good to have. I'll be honest. I like the brutal honesty. But I also think what happened, too, and it probably is because of the comfort you guys have. You got a lot more vulnerable this season. I know everyone watched it, and I think that's a huge part of this experience, too, is not just getting better as a dancer, but really connecting with America and the audience and having that opportunity to show Alex. How has that been for you through this experience?

I mean, that's been the other beautiful part of this is. I think it's, I don't know, scary at times to be vulnerable. But there was days I was leaving and just, like, crying in my car. Cause I was frustrated with myself, and I think it was. I don't know. One day I was crying in the bathroom. And not because of anything other than just me wanting to be better and, like, wanting to Push myself and just getting frustrated with myself. And one of the producers was in there, and she was like, we're gonna grab you for an interview. And I was like, okay. And I think that was the week that was kind of, like, shown for the first time. And it ended up being a beautiful thing because I think it shows the other side of this, which is the, like, you know, hard work and determination. And it's frustrating at times. Like, it is so much fun. But I think that's been really cool for people to see and see that side of me.

I have to ask about it while you guys are here. Where did the inspiration of the freestyle come from? I think there's.

[Val]

I'm a romantic for, like, bookending things, you know, that just, like, bringing it back full circle. I. I think there was a little bit of that essence in it. I think we opened the show with a really pop star moment that she didn't necessarily. I don't think, was ready for internally. Not external, but internally. I don't think she had the confidence to really pull that off. But now I think she's ready, and I wanted this moment to kind of give her another chance at being the centerpiece of this halftime super bowl show.

[Joey Gros]

Yeah, I was so nervous, and I feel like it was a faked confidence, which I think is kind of how I was just going about life. Like, oh, it's like, oh, you know, fake it till you make it, whatever. But, like, it didn't feel like, I don't know, I was fully able to do that. I was just. I was so scared and so nervous in that moment. And then I think in this and how I've grown throughout this experience, we wanted this to be like, okay, well, now I can do it. And we want it to be fierce and powerful. And we were going back and forth with, like, songs for a while too, and I was like, you know what? I just want to do something that, like, other people are able to watch and be like, oh, like, that makes me want to go out and accomplish something and feel, you know, so empowered from seeing.

Well, I know people are gonna love it. If you haven't gotten enough love this season, I will say it again. Your guys partnership has been unbelievable. I was lucky to be able to be a little bit a part of it, and I appreciate that. But I hope you look back on this with nothing but amazing memories. And I'm just excited you guys got a chance to really experience this whole show. Cause it's been special to watch.

It's been the most amazing thing in the world, and Val's just been the best partner.

[Robert]

Thanks.

[Joey Gros]

I'm gonna miss it.

All right, guys, we are here with Alex and Val. I just wanna know how are right now after that.

Good. I think I just got hit by a truck, like, in there. I was like, oh, my God, I'm good. I'm so happy. And all of a sudden, a wave came over me when everyone started clearing out of the ballroom that I was like, oh, this is really over. And then it hit me, and then I was, like, crying happy tears. And now I'm good. I'm excited.

Overstimulated.

Yeah, Overstimulated over tired and just so happy.

Like, one of the things you said tonight that I want to talk about was how you wanted to have your pop star moment. You wanted to show how much confidence you got through this experience. What was it like in that freestyle to be to able to have that moment and just show everything that you built this season.

The freestyle was so fun. Like, I just can't wait to just sit down, watch it back. We haven't even really gotten a chance to see it, but just being out there, it felt so good, so strong, so fun. Like, it just flew by. And it was the longest dance we had done all season. And every time we practiced it, I was, like, heaving at the end. But this one, I just. I don't know. Something came over. It just, like, flew by in 10 seconds. I barely remember it.

It was incredible. It was incredible. Val, what do you want to say to Alex after all this?

[Val]

Damn, that's a heavy question. Just talking about the freestyle.

[Joey Gros]

Hey, what do you want to talk about the freestyle yet? Fireball.

[Val]

The fire. I was like, o.

[Joey Gros]

This warm.

[Val]

What do I want to say to her?

[Daniella]

Just.

[Val]

Just do this again In. In another arena, you know, just commit yourself to anything you want to commit yourself to. I mean, I just. There's been so many cliches throughout the night. I. It's. I don't want to go that route. I just want to tell you how grateful again and proud I am of the gift that you gave me. So I'll just reflect on that. I've done the show many times. I've danced for a long time. You don't always have moments like that. Freestyle. I only can do that with you. I only can do that with a partner that's willing to work that hard. And so that, to me, is the win. That, to me, is a personal trophy.

[Joey Gros]

That I appreciate very much.

[Val]

Much everything else you've already heard and seen and we've said. I just want to thank you again for that. Moments like tonight, I cherish very much. Winning aside. So that's it.

[Joey Gros]

Thank you. You guys are the best. So proud of you this season, honestly. Thank you for letting me just bother you guys on the bus, but I know I'm in my velvet suit still. Up next, guys, we have our chat with Whitney and Robert.

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[Danny]

Coca Cola for the big, for the.

[Jordan]

Small, the short and the tall.

[Joey Gros]

Peacemakers, risk takers for the optimists, pessimists.

[Jordan]

For long distance loads for introverts and.

[Joey Gros]

Extroverts, the thinkers and the doers for old friends and new Coca Cola for everyone. Pick up some Coca Cola at a store near you.

[Robert]

Joey. Joey.

[Joey Gros]

I'm gonna. I feel like we already got in the cabo here.

[Robert]

No, we are at a point where we are delirious.

[Joey Gros]

I get this week, we. It's insane. Hi, Whitney. Hi, Robert. It is understandable that you're a little delirious right now. I know. Finale week is crazy. So how are we? Are we delirious? Are we tired?

[Whitney]

We are all the things right now. I mean, we're very emotionally, physically drained at this point. I mean, it's been a very grueling and hard season. Very fun.

[Val]

Yeah.

[Robert]

Honestly, like, this week feels like it's the ultimate culmination of this whole experience. You know, all of the highs and lows. You know what it's like. It's so intense. You feel everything. It's so raw. It's you. You have no filter. Your guard is gone because you've just given yourself to this process. And it just feels so beautiful and so special that we're able to see it all the way to the end. You know, that we've been able to dance every dance we could have. And it's just such a gift.

[Joey Gros]

Yeah. No, and it's something about the finale where you're tired. You're, like, ready for it to be done because you don't have much left to give, but you also don't want it to be done. No, I want to start going Back to week one, your jive. That performance, I think, was one of the biggest viral moments of this whole show of just, like, how much a performer you were right from the get go, having no dance experience.

[Robert]

Thank you.

[Joey Gros]

Did you expect the reaction that you got right away?

[Daniella]

No.

[Joey Gros]

Cause it was crazy.

No, I.

[Robert]

Well, see, you gotta, like, I've got. I had nothing to base it off of. And, you know, Whitney and I. Cause for that first dance, you've got two weeks instead of one week, which is nice. So we had a lot of time to.

[Danny]

To.

[Robert]

To put into this. And we used every second because it really was starting from ground zero. I mean, Whitney was starting with the blankest of canvases. And I knew. I mean, as a fan of the show, and I've been watching Whitney for, well, 10 years. I know her choreography is just second to none, and I was so excited to do that, but I had no reference point. I didn't know if the moves I were doing were right or what. And Whitney's guidance, we felt like we had something really fun and that we both loved. But then to feel the reaction from everybody around America, that is what I feel like set me on this path and made me realize, wow, this. This dream is coming true. That jive, I think, will always be probably the most special dance for me.

[Whitney]

There was a lot of pressure on that first dance because I think Bindi's legacy and her reputation and winning and, you know, being with Derek and having these incredible dances, there was a lot of pressure being like, okay, well, can Robert Irwin meet those expectations? And I think from the judges and from America and from everyone, everyone was so, you know, they were anticipating this jive. So there was a lot of. A lot of pressure. And to feel like the response that we did just felt so good. And it gave us that motivation week after week after week.

[Joey Gros]

You're the jive guy. Let's just say it out. You are the jive. You are the jive, guys. You are the jive.

[Whitney]

We actually had some cute moments in there, like when. So Bindi, her first jive, she actually did a wardrobe change. So we added that in as well, in a different way. And then, you know, your pose that you do that, your dad always does. Like, I feel like you just naturally did that.

[Robert]

No, I didn't even really plan it. It just kind of happened.

[Whitney]

Yeah, it was a really good.

[Joey Gros]

There was magic caught in that dance. It's hard. It's hard to recreate it. I saw you guys doing it, obviously, leading up to that week, and you Smashed it too, like on the live show, which is hard to do. Were you shocked how much of a performer he is though? Because that's something you just can't figure out until you get into it.

[Whitney]

I was so shocked because you know how it is when you're training and you're training. You cannot teach someone how to react and how to perform on live television. You just either have it or you don't, or you can learn it and you can get better at it. But I feel like from the get go, from that first dance, I was like, okay, he didn't mess up.

[Joey Gros]

He thank goodness. That's the first step.

[Whitney]

He performed the heck out of it. And it surprised me and it gave me so much confidence going into the next week. Cause I was like, okay, he's got that.

[Joey Gros]

I didn't realize that. Thank you, Whitney.

[Whitney]

Yes. Cause I mean, it's every pro's nightmare.

[Joey Gros]

By the way, if you don't know. Like that is. It is always talked about that you could have so much confidence going into it, but that first week tells you a lot about how the season's gonna go.

[Whitney]

Yeah, exactly. And it's that star quality that you cannot teach. And you either have it or you don't. And you have it.

[Danny]

It just.

[Robert]

For me, it just felt like being in that ballroom was like all of a sudden I was 11 years old again. Like all of a sudden that. That wonder and that awe of this place, it was just back and I could feel it in my heart. And I was just like, this is it, this is the dream. Let me add it. I was just like, let me at it. I want to give everything. I just like, I want my heart and soul to just be like, boom, in this ballroom, you know, like, that's what it's about. Passion and enthusiasm is, I think, the most important thing in life. I mean, Whitney, you've got the skill side of it covered. Like you could teach me that. But like, if you approach something with a genuine love and passion, doesn't matter what you do, it's going to be.

[Joey Gros]

Fun, you know, I don't know where this energy comes from, man. It's like, it's unbelievable. And I know, right? Like, I wanna, I wanna tap into it and take some of it, but you got that. But the thing is, the thing about you that's so different is if people see it right, they get doses of it on this show. But being around you for all these months, it's. It's the most authentic and genuine thing ever. Like, it just oozes out of you, oozes out your family. But there's. There's something about it that's so raw and authentic with this energy. And I don't. I don't know, it just. And it fits in this style in this ballroom and what we do on this show, but it's amazing.

[Whitney]

I'm a bit of a pessimist, so when I first. When I first met him, I was like, no one can be this nice. I mean, come on. Like, this is a facade. And then, as you know, the days have gone by, it just. It is just who he is, just to his core. Just authentically. Robert just excited about life, about everything. Like, it's so infectious. It really is.

[Robert]

Life goes by so fast. Like, it's. It's too short not to give it everything, you know, you gotta just. I don't know, I feel like it was just built in for me. I think it's the Irwin Genetics are.

[Joey Gros]

In there, which are pretty, you know, which are.

[Robert]

Which are pretty energetic. But then also, I think, like, you know, through everything I've. I've had in my childhood, growing up, you know, a lot of lessons that sort of taught me how life is very fleeting and you just don't know how long you've got, got, and you might as well just live it to the fullest. And I feel like the most instrumental people in my family, namely my parents, my mom and dad are the people who showed me what it is to just truly live at, well, 110%, you know, and give everything. How you do anything is how you do everything. And if you find what you love, you better give it everything, you know, and, yeah, you owe it to yourself to do that. I really believe it.

[Val]

Yeah.

[Joey Gros]

That's so special. And you can tell it just. It feels right coming from your family. And I want to talk about, too, because we. We had Bindi on earlier this season and she was so excited that you got the chance multiple times in the season now to be able to express and dance the art of it and to be able to, like, take in those emotions and find ways, as you said, to, like, actually show gratitude in a form of something, to be able to look back and experience things. What was that experience like for you? Because I know you can't really prep for that when you come on the show.

[Robert]

No, and that's not something I expect. I really appreciate you asking about that because that was probably what hit me most about this show. Like, I had an idea of what it entailed because of Bindi.

[Danny]

And.

[Robert]

And I. I knew the. The what all of the highs and lows kind of felt like, but I didn't realize the gift that I would be given here, which was this gift that Whitney gave me. Creating choreography and creating an avenue to.

[Alan]

Express.

[Robert]

Some of the most challenging parts of my life in a positive way with a sense of gratitude. I immediately look at the dedication dance that we did to my mom. I think that was a real story of grief and loss that we didn't want to shy away from, but we wanted to look at that story through the lens of here's the person who lifted me out of that. And I think in our own lives, we all have that person, or sometimes we are that person who's helping to lift someone up out of a dark time. And I just didn't realize how profound the stories could be that you can tell through dance. And again, I think the most important part of that dance that I really think people need to remember is the fact that it was a dance that I think was about that grief journey, but it was also a celebration of mums.

[Joey Gros]

How was that for you? I know that's. That was a moment I could see when it was on tv, too. Like, you were getting emotional. You had this.

[Danny]

This.

[Joey Gros]

This. This responsibility, but this connection that you guys got to be able. What was that like for you?

[Whitney]

I think that's, yeah, greatly worded. I think there was a lot of responsibility in making sure that I tell Robert's story, but also that we created something that would be helpful for others so that they could find their own strength and that they could connect to, because that's. That's what we're about too, is we're telling stories. And that's what I really love about dances. When you don't have the words. Dance can be that avenue to share your soul and share your feelings in your heart. And it was a very special dance that I will always remember forever. Because you only get those, like, you know, every once in a while, those special moments that just go beyond the technique, go beyond the scores, go beyond anything else other than just the story that you're trying to tell and the emotions and the feelings. So it was a special one.

[Joey Gros]

It's special. And you can tell people resonated with it because how much it meant to you guys. That's the difference, too. Like, it just felt like it was something you were leaving out on the floor.

[Robert]

Yeah, yeah, it was funny. Like, when we actually came down for it, when it came down to it, we were on that floor. Whitney was covering my ears during the package because it was really emotional. And I remember like just sitting there and thinking, just, just be strong, just get through it. Just the whole time I'm just thinking, don't break down, don't you know, because it was a really hard one to get through because there's so many emotions that were like sitting right at surface level. And then when the music started playing, I just remember it's like this little voice in my head just went, let go. Just let go.

[Joey Gros]

There's not enough words to describe what that dance was for you guys, but that's really amazing that you felt that. Thank you guys. We appreciate you sitting in. I know it's a busy week. We'll see you the rest of it.

[Robert]

Awesome, man.

[Joey Gros]

Thank you so much. Thank you guys. Let's do this. Come on. What was that? Alright, guys, I am here with your season 34 champions, Robert and Whitney. Robert, how are you feeling right now?

[Robert]

Just incredibly grateful and so grateful more than anything else that I got to have this journey with such an amazing group of people that gave it everything. I mean, everybody just deserves to be here and everybody was representing themselves, you know, and we were so proud to bring all of our passion and positivity and everything into and I'm just so happy that I got to have this experience with Whitney. I'll remember this forever. It means the absolute world.

[Whitney]

I honestly can't think of anyone more deserving than Robert and the Irwin family. Like they are just so pure and kind and this season has been so special to me. Like, you know this, I tell you all the time but so, so special and I'll remember it forever.

[Joey Gros]

You guys are the best. I'm so proud of both of you.

[Danny]

Thank you, Joe.

[Joey Gros]

Thank you. I'm actually gonna follow you guys out because it's gonna be fun to see you go off on the jet and I have to let everyone want to know, don't forget next Tuesday. Make sure you watch Dancing with the Holidays on abc, Disney plus or the next day on Hulu filming this. I want to remember this ever, ever, ever. That is a wrap on the Dance with the Stars official podcast. Thank you so much for tuning in every week, guys. I'm your host Joey Gros. Today we'll see you sa. This has been a BBC studios production for abc and disney plus.