CAREER

In 2003, Shawn had his first breakthrough success with in-person seminars about the time he and Joanna found out they were expecting their first child. He built a complete sports-related dance curriculum that was marketed to couples who were getting ready for their “First Dance,” and another for first time dancers called , “Dance Lessons 101.”

Two years later, Shawn created and launched his first online product, a DVD called “Line Dance Groundwork.” He followed that up with three other dance lesson DVDs and would soon remove and replace each one after a breakthrough customer survey revealed more than what he had bargained for. He learned more from that experience than he did in all of his MBA program and previous schooling.

One year and 25 DVDs later, and Shawn received his first book deal with his wife, Joanna. The two of them developed the entire teaching model for the “Picture Yourself” series that would go on to be used in over 100 books worldwide. Thomson Publishing released their book, “Picture Yourself Dancing” and sold out their initial 10K book order in the first year.

Over the next several years, Shawn would go on to develop and produce over 75 full-length DVDs while building his own studio and production facility as well as a warehouse for all fulfillment. Shawn’s products were widely distributed and sold in over 140 countries worldwide.

In 2016 Shawn led his team to a complete digital makeover and began selling his Signature Collection while working with students online, building his consulting business and writing on the side. In 2023, Shawn is set to release at least 4 different books with more already in the works. 

GETTING PERSONAL

Shawn is a family man, married to the love of his life and business partner, Joanna Trautman. Shawn spends his days working with students, building businesses, writing stories & meeting people. Together, they have four high performing children and live outside of Nashville, TN.

Shawn grew up in New Hampshire until age 10 when he moved to Clearwater, FL. Shawn met Joanna when he was in the middle of his MBA while working as an Engineering Planner at Raytheon and she was shifting from college graduation to her own career. A year after meeting they were married and she was working with the Dept. of Veteran’s Affairs and making waves with her vast number of strengths and assets related to learning.

Two years later Shawn & Joanna would be a year into their new venture while also still both working for the Govt. and they’d welcome their first of four children over the next six years. The “family” part rerouted their attention and they then focused on building a business that would allow them to spend more time at home and that’s exactly what they did. Fifteen full time employees later, their online business had exploded and Shawn’s dream to get his lessons to “the masses” was well underway.