Interview date: October 29, 2024Episode Summary:

Nika Kljun, a renowned dancer, choreographer, and life coach, to discuss her extraordinary journey from Slovenia to Hollywood. Nika shares insights on her humble beginnings in her parents’ dance studio and how her early success in Europe led to major international opportunities. She talks about her experience working with A-list artists like Beyoncé, JLo, and Britney Spears, and the importance of resilience in the dance industry. Nika also opens up about her transition into life coaching, offering holistic support to dancers and non-dancers alike.

Throughout the conversation, Nika discusses the value of perseverance, the impact of social media, and how dancers can handle comparison and negative self-talk. She encourages dancers to trust the process, stay grounded, and embrace their true selves.

Show Notes:

• (00:00) - Introduction to Nika Kljun

• (04:15) - Nika’s Early Dance Journey in Slovenia

• (08:00) - Transition from Slovenia to LA and the O-1 Visa Process

• (15:40) - The Struggles and Successes of Starting in LA

• (24:30) - The Role of Social Media and Comparison in Dance Careers

• (30:45) - Nika’s Transition into Life Coaching and Helping Dancers Mentally

• (36:20) - The Importance of Self-Care, Mental Health, and Physical Wellbeing

• (42:00) - Advice for Dancers: Resilience, Forgiveness, and Personal Growth

• (50:00) - Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

Biography:

World renowned choreographer and professional dancer Nika Kljun was born into a family of respected dance pioneers in Ljubljana, Slovenia. 

The apple didn’t fall far from the tree, and Nika shone from a young age. A national and international champion herself, by the time she was a teenager, she coached and choreographed dancers from her family’s studio, Bolero, to new heights and world titles. Meanwhile, she built her professional resume and impressive reputation across Europe and the world. 

Soon enough, Nika moved to Los Angeles, California to further pursue her dreams. It was not long before she had worked with the likes of Beyonce, Jennifer Lopez, Justin Bieber, and appeared on mainstream televised award shows such as the MTV Video Music Awards, the Latin Grammys, X-Factor, and more. 

All the while, Nika continued to fulfill her passion for education, teaching often sold out classes to dancers at Millennium Dance Complex in Los Angeles, and touring the country and world teaching master classes, both individually, and with elite dance convention programs. 

She is currently on faculty at Jump dance convention. Nika’s choreography can be seen on prime time television shows such as Fox TV’s So You Think You Can Dance and The Masked Singer, CBS’s Come Dance With Me, and more, and in both live and virtual arenas across the world - to name only two of many, Nika choreographed for Taiwanese “Queen of C-Pop” Jolin Cai’s Ugly Beauty World Tour in 2019 and J. Balvin’s Live TikTok Concert Performance in 2021. 

In 2018, Nika was a choreographer for Britney Spears’ Las Vegas Residency “Domination”, a full circle moment following Nika’s portrayal of the megastar during the 2011 VMA Vanguard Britney Spears Tribute Performance. 

Notably, not only has Nika choreographed for pop culture, music, and dance legend Paula Abdul, but she has been her creative right-hand-woman for six years. Her work on Paula’s “Forever Your Girl” Las Vegas Residency in 2019, and her outstanding performance at the Billboard Music Awards in 2019. 

Their collaborative power continues to flourish throughout current projects. Throughout it all, Nika deeply understands and intently spreads the value of wellness. Now a certified life coach, Nika recently and successfully launched “Shaped By Nika” - a professional-level dance intensive marked by an emphasis on how the mind, body, and spirit can work together towards one’s dreams. 

Connect on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/nikakljun/profilecard/

Website: https://nikakljun.com

Interview date: May 19, 2025

Episode Summary:

Dan Galpern, CEO of Dance One, and Mike Minery, VP of Dance One. They discuss the creation and growth of Dance One, a leading organization in the dance industry that produces over 500 events annually through 21 brands. Dan shares how his background as a dance dad led him to invest in the dance industry, culminating in the formation of Dance One, which combines competition events, conventions, and educational opportunities for dancers. Mike, with his extensive experience as a tap dancer and choreographer, talks about his transition into an executive role and his work to bridge the artistic and business sides of the dance world. The episode highlights Dance One’s mission to elevate the dance community through world-class events, global expansion, and creating opportunities for dancers to develop both their skills and careers.

Show Notes:

• (00:00) Introduction to today’s guests: Dan Galpern and Mike Minery from Dance One

•  (05:00) Dan’s journey into the dance industry and the creation of Dance One

•  (10:30) The merging of 21 dance brands to form Dance One and its impact on the industry

•  (15:00) Mike Minery’s background as a tap dancer and his transition into an executive role

• (20:00) The vision behind Dance One’s global expansion and investment in dancer education

•  (25:30) How Dance One is enhancing its conventions with technology and innovative experiences

•  (30:00) The importance of combining artistic and business knowledge in building a successful dance career

•  (35:00) Dan and Mike’s insights on the future of ballroom dance with the launch of Ovation

•  (40:00) Creating opportunities for dancers in various industries beyond performance

•  (45:00) Advice for young dancers on building a sustainable career in dance

•  (50:00) The power of community and collaboration in the dance industry

•  (55:00) Closing thoughts from Dan and Mike on their roles in shaping the future of dance

•  (55:12) Conclusion of the episode and Menina’s closing remarks

Biography:

Mike Minery is a Vice President at DanceOne and Executive Director of DanceOne’s Break The Floor Tours. A New Jersey native, he has established himself as one of the finest tap dancers and choreographers working today. Most recently, Mike has been a top faculty member on JUMP for more than 20 years, including six as tour director. Additionally, he was named the 1997 World Tap Champion and was a recipient of a Princess Grace Dance Fellowship Award. He toured the world as a soloist with the internationally acclaimed Manhattan Tap company and has been featured at The Supper Club on Broadway, in the '40s revue This Joint is Jumping. He has also created his own tap company, "Tapaholics", which debuted at the famed Duke Theatre in New York City and has performed in countless theatres and on television as a feature guest on The Tony Danza Show.

Dan Galpern is the CEO of DanceOne, the premier producer of more than 500 yearly elite educational and competitive dance events and largest family of dance brands in the world. Before joining DanceOne, Dan was a senior partner at TZP Group, where he helped lead the initial strategic investments that created DanceOne in 2023. His extensive background includes his role as the Chief Operating Officer and Head of Strategy at CurtCo Media Labs, LLC, a holding company for the Robb Report Family of media brands, which Dan helped to expand from just two magazines to an international integrated media platform with fifteen media brands, producing over 60 live events annually, as well as his ongoing commitment to child welfare through his service as Chairman of the Board of Children’s Rights, Inc.

Connect on Social Media with Dance One:

https://www.instagram.com/danceone

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php

Website:

http://dance.one/

Interview date: December 8, 2024

Episode Summary:

Liz Imperio, a renowned choreographer, director, and educator with an extensive career working with superstars like Jennifer Lopez, Madonna, and Gloria Estefan. Liz shares her personal journey from a young dancer struggling with body image in ballet to becoming a leading figure in the dance industry. She discusses pivotal moments, including her discovery of flamenco, working alongside Kenny Ortega, and choreographing her first world tour at the age of 20.

Liz emphasizes the importance of resilience and the mindset required for longevity in the dance industry. She offers invaluable advice on finding your unique voice, trusting your creativity, and staying true to your craft despite the pressures to conform. Throughout the conversation, she highlights the significance of self-worth and the role of personal relationships in advancing a dance career.

This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for aspiring dancers looking to break through the barriers of self-doubt and achieve success in a competitive and evolving field.

Show Notes:

• (0:00) Introduction to Liz Imperio’s background

• (2:30) Liz’s early dance experiences and discovering her passion for movement

• (5:45) Overcoming rejection in ballet and transitioning to other dance styles

• (11:00) Liz’s first professional dance company at age 14

• (16:30) Working with Kenny Ortega and becoming his associate choreographer

• (20:00) Liz’s journey to choreographing her first world tour at age 20

• (25:15) The power of trusting your creativity and overcoming self-doubt

• (30:00) The role of mindset and belief in a dancer’s career success

• (35:00) Liz’s work as the artistic director of Hollywood Vibe Dance Convention

• (40:30) Building a culture of teamwork and trust in dance environments

• (45:00) Liz’s journey with Success Dance and creating programs for dancers

• (50:00) Networking and standing out in the dance industry

• (55:00) Advice for dancers on navigating the business side of dance

• (60:00) Liz’s perspective on being Latina in the industry and embracing cultural uniqueness

• (65:00) Closing thoughts on passion, self-worth, and perseverance in dance

Biography:
Liz Imperio is a highly acclaimed director and choreographer in the entertainment industry with an impressive list of achievements. Born and raised in Hollywood, California, she has worked with some of the biggest names in music and entertainment, including Jennifer Lopez, Madonna, Gloria Estefan, Cher, and Michael Jackson.

She has directed and choreographed Jennifer Lopez's world tour, Dance Again, as well as Gloria Estefan's last three world concert tours. Liz also directed and choreographed two of Madonna's world tours: the Re-invention Tour and the Confessions Tour. Her work has been seen in various television shows and specials such as American Idol, Dancing with the Stars, American Music Awards, and Disney Channel's Gotta Kick It Up. Liz has also directed and choreographed for movies and commercials.

In addition to her impressive resume, Liz was recently named Honorary Artistic Director and was commissioned to set new works to celebrate Giordano's Jazz Dance Chicago's 50th Anniversary. The piece, La Bellaza de Cuba, premiered to rave reviews and toured throughout Europe in the summer of 2022.

Liz is known for her creativity and unique style, which is heavily influenced by her Cuban-American heritage. Her work has been praised for its fusion of various dance styles, from contemporary to Latin, and her ability to tell stories through movement. Her innovative choreography has earned her several awards, including an Emmy for Outstanding Choreography for the television special, Great Performances: Miami City Ballet Dances Balanchine and Tharp.

Connect on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/lizimperio

https://www.facebook.com/liz.imperio

App

https://success.dance/

Interview date: July 16, 2023Episode Summary:

Bobby Amamizu, a seasoned dancer, educator, and choreographer. Bobby shares his inspiring journey from a competitive dancer at Irvine Dance Academy to working with top choreographers and performing in high-profile productions like Dancing with the Stars. He talks about his early years in the dance industry, including the pivotal moments that shaped his career, such as performing in the Fiona Apple music video at just 10 years old and his experiences with Cirque du Soleil’s Viva Elvis show in Las Vegas.

He reflects on the importance of training in multiple dance styles, including tap, ballet, jazz, and hip-hop, and emphasizes how versatility helped him stand out in a competitive industry. He shares valuable advice for dancers, stressing the need to enjoy the process and cultivate strong relationships within the industry. 

The episode wraps up with Bobby’s heartfelt insights into building lasting connections in the dance world.

Show Notes:

• (1:00) Bobby’s early dance journey and transition to competitive dance

• (5:00) Mentorship from Moni Adamson and his first professional gig at 10

• (10:00) Training at OC High School of the Arts and landing Viva Elvis with Cirque du Soleil

• (15:00) Navigating challenges as a young dancer in a competitive industry

• (20:00) How versatility in ballet, tap, and other styles set him apart

• (25:00) Moving to LA and diving into TV and film work

• (30:00) Teaching at major conventions like Tremaine and Hollywood Connection

• (35:00) Building relationships with top choreographers and mentors

• (40:00) Balancing live performances, TV shows, and teaching

• (45:00) Current projects, including The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and an Amazon ballet show

• (50:00) Final advice: Keep training, stay humble, enjoy the journey, and never give up

Biography:

Bobby Amamizu originally from Irvine, CA is a graduate from Orange County High School of the Arts and holds a BFA in Dance Performance from UC Irvine. 

He is a professional dancer, educator, assistant choreographer, and choreographer who has worked in all varieties of entertainment such as stage, industrials, company, film, commercials, and television.

Stage/Industrials/Company credits include: Cirque du Soleil’s Viva Elvis (original cast), The Power of Music Evening with Hans Zimmer, Freelusion, Cirque du Soleil Worlds Away Roadshow, Loving The Silent Tears (original musical), International Ballet Festival of Miami, Laguna Dance Festival, National Choreographers Initiative, L’Oreal, Mattel, Morinda, Unity LA (Tessandra Chavez), and Commonality (Adam Parson).

Film: A Week Away (Netflix), Valley Girl “Like Totally A Musical”, Fame, A Very Harold and Kumar Christmas, Dear Dumb Diary. Television/Commercials: Young Sheldon, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (Season 5), Physical (Season 2 and 3), Roar, The Voice Promo, Carpool Karaoke, Ford, Lip Sync Battle, Hulu’s “Door No.1”, Home Joy, Miss Universe, Strictly Come Dancing, Fiona Apple music video “Paper Bag,” Jerry Lewis Telethon.

He has taught for different companies, institutions, and conventions including Cirque du Soleil, Houston Met, OCSA, Edge Performing Arts Center, Steps on Broadway, Tremaine Dance Convention, and LA Elite/Elite Dance Convention. He is currently on faculty for Hollywood Connection Dance Convention and an Adjunct Professor at Pace University’s Commercial Dance Department.

Bobby is an assistant to many choreographers such as Marguerite Derricks, Michael Rooney, Bonnie Story, Lane Napper, Dominique Kelley among others. Some of the past projects he was fortunate to be a part of as an assistant choreographer include Happy Socks, AT&T, Carvana, Flirty Dancing and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. 

At the time of taping The Business of Dance Podcast he was working on a new ballet TV show “Etoile” as an assistant choreographer that was filmed in New York and Paris.

Connect on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/bobbyamamizu

https://www.facebook.com/bobby.amamizu.9

Interview date: January 20, 2025

Episode Summary:

Noah Lands, the visionary behind some of the dance industry's biggest platforms—including Kids Artistic Review (KAR), Rainbow Dance Connection, the Industry Dance Awards, and Dancers Against Cancer (DAC). 

Noah discusses the growth of his businesses, the evolution of dance competitions, and the creation of Rainbow and Ultra Dance, as well as the prestigious Industry Dance Awards, which honor excellence across multiple competitions. He also dives into the origin and mission behind Dancers Against Cancer, a nonprofit inspired by a former employee’s battle with brain cancer.

The episode also highlights the debut of Gala of the Stars, a red-carpet event held at the Beverly Hilton featuring iconic names like Liza Minnelli, Paula Abdul, and JoJo Siwa. Noah touches on future projects, including a women-in-dance documentary and a new dance convention, “Refresh,” aimed at reimagining the convention experience.

Show Notes:

• (0:00) Intro to Noah Lands

•  (4:15) Owning a studio & entering the comp world 

• (6:45) Creating KAR after frustration with scoring

•  (9:00) Early days of KAR

•  (11:00) Expanding beyond California 

• (13:00) Why events were Sundays-only 

• (15:15) Turning it into a full-time business

•  (16:45) Acquiring Rainbow & partnership lessons

•  (19:00) Menina’s past judging for Rainbow

•  (21:00) Starting the Industry Dance Awards

•  (24:30) Collaborating with other competitions

•  (27:00) Launching Gala of the Stars

•  (30:00) Starting Dancers Against Cancer (DAC) 

• (33:00) Keeping 90% of DAC funds for dancers

•  (36:00) JoJo Siwa’s record-breaking fundraiser

•  (38:00) Red carpet + celebrity guests

•  (41:00) Upcoming “Women in Dance” doc & Broadway idea

•  (43:30) New dance convention “Refresh” coming soon

•  (46:00) Protege program & mentorship

•  (48:00) Mentee Q&A: advice & how to get involved

•  (51:00) Final thoughts & how to reach Noah

Biography:

Noah Lands is the visionary Founder, Owner, and CEO of KAR Productions, a powerhouse that has revolutionized the competitive dance industry. With more than four decades of experience, Noah has established himself as a leader, innovator, and philanthropist. Under his leadership, KAR Productions has grown into a thriving family of highly regarded brands, including Kids Artistic Revue (KAR), Rainbow Dance Competition, Ultra Dance Competition, KAR Dance Conventions, Rainbow Dance Conventions, KAR Live, Refresh Dance Conventions, Industry Dance Awards, Dancers Against Cancer (DAC), Hollywood Dance Experience, and NYC Dance Experience.

A defining aspect of Noah’s leadership is his deep commitment to the well-being of dancers. In 2013, after the tragic loss of a beloved dancer and employee to cancer, Noah founded Dancers Against Cancer (DAC) as a way to support families facing the devastating financial burden of cancer. DAC ensures that 100% of the funds raised through donations and events go directly to assisting dancers and their families during these challenging times. Through DAC, Noah has formed partnerships with some of the most prominent figures in dance and entertainment, including Derek and Julianne Hough, Paula Abdul, Kenny Ortega, Vanessa Hudgens, and the late Olivia Newton-John. 

One of DAC’s signature events, the annual Industry Dance Awards Gala, has become a major fundraiser that honors the most influential figures in the dance industry while raising significant funds to support DAC’s mission. In 2024, Noah’s commitment to giving back took another monumental step with the creation of the KAR Productions Scholarship Foundation. This initiative is dedicated to helping dancers from underprivileged backgrounds pursue their dreams by offering financial support to those who may otherwise be unable to afford the costs associated with dance education and competition.

Connect on Social Media:

https://www.facebook.com/noah.lands.5

https://www.instagram.com/papawizard

Interview date: February 9, 2025

Episode summary:

Alex Wong, a dynamic dancer, choreographer, and social media influencer with over 4 million followers. From his early training in Vancouver to becoming a principal dancer at Miami City Ballet, Alex’s journey spans ballet, Broadway, commercial dance, and TV/film work. He opens up about his time on So You Think You Can Dance, his transition into commercial dance, overcoming injuries, and leveraging social media to grow his career. Alex shares valuable insights on making career decisions, staying happy in a competitive industry, and embracing the variety of opportunities that come with being a versatile artist.

Show Notes:

• (0:00) – Introduction to Alex Wong’s Multifaceted Dance Career

Menina introduces Alex Wong, highlighting his remarkable journey from ballet to commercial dance, Broadway, and social media stardom.

• (2:30) – Early Training and Transition to Ballet

Alex discusses his start in dance, from jazz and tap to the rigorous world of ballet.

• (6:00) – Joining So You Think You Can Dance and the Shift to Commercial Dance

Alex reflects on his decision to audition for So You Think You Can Dance, the challenges he faced, and the realization that commercial dance was the path he wanted to take.

• (9:00) – The Struggles of Injury: Overcoming Achilles Tendon Tears

Alex shares the impact of two Achilles injuries on his career, how he used the time to explore other creative outlets, and his determination to return to dance.

• (13:30) – Broadway Debut and Transition into Film and TV Work

From Newsies on Broadway to working with artists like Taylor Swift and Ariana Grande, Alex discusses his experiences in the world of Broadway and commercial entertainment.

• (18:00) – Building a Social Media Empire: Over 4 Million Followers

Alex talks about his rise as a social media influencer, how he grew his following, and the opportunities for brand collaborations with major companies like Amazon and Google.

• (22:00) – Navigating a Diverse Career: Dance, Acting, and Influencing

Alex shares his thoughts on juggling multiple career paths, staying balanced, and making time for what truly brings him joy, both professionally and personally.

• (26:00) – Making Career Decisions: Listening to Intuition and Avoiding Regret

Alex explains how he makes decisions about which jobs to take, using his gut feeling and the fear of missing out (FOMO) as his guide.

• (30:00) – Advice for Aspiring Dancers: Embrace Variety and Keep Learning

Alex offers advice to young dancers on diversifying their skills, staying humble, and understanding the importance of ongoing training and professional growth.

• (35:00) – Reflecting on Career Milestones: Proud Moments and Takeaways

Alex reflects on the milestones of his career, including his favorite performances, challenges faced, and the lessons he’s learned along the way.

• (40:00) – Looking Forward: Future Goals and Career Aspirations

Alex shares what lies ahead for him in the dance world, including future projects and his thoughts on touring with major artists or taking on new creative ventures.

• (45:00) – Final Thoughts: Finding Happiness and Fulfillment in Your Career

Menina and Alex wrap up the episode, discussing the importance of staying true to oneself, finding happiness in the work, and how to maintain a sense of fulfillment in an ever-changing career.

• (50:00) – Q&A with Business of Dance Mentees: Advice and Inspiration

Alex answers questions from Business of Dance mentees, sharing valuable advice on technical training, artistic development, and building a career in dance and entertainment.

• (55:00) – Closing Remarks: Embracing the Journey and Enjoying the Ride

Menina closes the episode with final words of encouragement for aspiring dancers, emphasizing the importance of loving the craft and staying adaptable in the pursuit of success.

Connect on Social Media:

https://www.facebook.com/alexdwong

https://www.instagram.com/alexdwong

Website:

https://www.thealexwong.com/

Interview date: March 16, 2025

Episode Summary:

Mfoniso Akpan, Artistic Director of Step Afrika, shares her unique journey from a science student at Stony Brook University to leading a renowned dance company. With training in various dance styles, she combines creativity with analytical problem-solving, using skills from her science background to enhance her choreography.

She discusses her extensive travels with Step Afrika, performing in 60 countries and 49 U.S. states, and the company’s mission to preserve African American stepping traditions. The episode emphasizes the importance of professionalism and discipline in managing the logistics of touring and rehearsals, while also highlighting the business skills dancers need.

Mfoniso encourages aspiring dancers to combine their passions with persistence and curiosity, offering valuable advice on building a sustainable career in dance.

Show Notes:

• (1:00) Mfoniso Akpan’s early dance journey and starting with percussive dance

• (5:00) Balancing dance with academics: Majoring in biochemistry and molecular genetics

• (8:00) Joining Step Afrika in 2005 and her transition from dancer to Artistic Director

• (12:00) Step Afrika's mission to preserve and promote African American stepping traditions

• (15:00) Performing across 49 U.S. states and 60 countries with Step Afrika

• (18:00) Breaking the Guinness World Record for the most steppers in a live performance

• (22:00) The importance of professionalism: Timeliness, responsibility, and teamwork on tour

• (25:00) Combining science and dance: How Mfoniso uses problem-solving in choreography

• (30:00) Teaching dancers the business side of dance: Professionalism, contracts, and logistics

• (35:00) Networking and building relationships in the dance industry

• (40:00) Mfoniso’s approach to balancing multiple passions and staying organized

• (43:00) Final advice: Believe in yourself, keep learning, and make the most of every opportunity

Biography:

Mfoniso Akpan is a distinguished dancer and the Artistic Director of Step Afrika!, a Washington, D.C.-based arts organization dedicated to the African American tradition of stepping. Her extensive training encompasses tap, ballet, jazz, modern, African dance, hip-hop, and step. While attending the State University of New York at Stony Brook, she majored in biochemistry and molecular genetics, minored in dance, and honed her stepping skills as a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

Akpan began her dance training at the Bernice Johnson Cultural Arts Center and has performed at prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall, Avery Fisher Hall, the Apollo Theater, the Brooklyn Academy of Music, and Lincoln Center. She also toured with the off-Broadway show "Hoofin’ 2 Hittin," where she was a featured stepper and dancer.

Since joining Step Afrika!, in 2005, Akpan served as a performer and leader, becoming the Artistic Director in 2015. Under her leadership, the company has premiered off-Broadway, continued extensive national and international tours, headlined President Barack Obama's Black History Month Reception at the White House, and is featured prominently at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African-American History & Culture with the world’s first stepping interactive exhibit.

Akpan maintains that stepping is a national treasure, an American cultural art form that is a keeper of history—past, present, and future—that should be preserved, innovated, and shared with the world. She continues to share her love of movement and education with students and art lovers globally.

Connect on Social Media:

https://www.facebook.com/mfoniso.akpan.9

https://www.instagram.com/kokoma22

Interview date: November 17, 2022

Episode Summary:

Kyle Ponte, a dancer, choreographer, and international model who started his journey as a competitive dancer in Massachusetts. Kyle shares his incredible story, from winning a scholarship to the Hollywood Summer Tour at 17 to becoming a professional dancer in Los Angeles. He opens up about his experiences working with artists like Alicia Keys and touring with Lady Gaga, as well as his time living and working in China.

Kyle reflects on his journey and offers invaluable advice for aspiring dancers, emphasizing the importance of networking, self-promotion, and staying grounded. He discusses the balance between teaching and performing, explaining how building strong relationships in the dance community helped him secure stability in a gig-driven industry. Kyle also highlights the importance of mental health, the need to overcome self-doubt, and the power of being a genuinely good person in an often-competitive environment.

With insights on handling setbacks, pursuing choreography, and maintaining confidence, Kyle’s story serves as a powerful reminder that success in dance requires hard work, perseverance, and a positive attitude. Tune in for a dose of inspiration and practical advice on how to build a sustainable career in dance.

Show Notes:

• (1:00) Kyle Ponte’s journey from competitive dancer to choreographer and model

• (5:00) How the Hollywood Summer Tour scholarship shaped his career

• (10:00) Working with Alicia Keys and Lady Gaga

• (15:00) Living and working in China

• (20:00) Balancing teaching, choreography, and performing

• (25:00) Networking and building relationships in the dance industry

• (30:00) Overcoming rejection and staying motivated

• (35:00) The importance of mental health and positive self-talk

• (40:00) Managing social media presence

• (45:00) Final advice: Be kind, stay prepared, and enjoy the journey

Biography:

Kyle Ponte is an internationally recognized dancer, model, and choreographer, known for his dynamic presence in both the fashion and entertainment industries. Recently, he joined Lady Gaga’s Chromatica Ball tour as one of the featured dancers, marking a major milestone in his career as part of Gaga’s highly anticipated 6th world tour.

Kyle’s career spans across multiple continents and elite events, with performances in Shanghai alongside global icons such as Alicia Keys, Karlie Kloss, Jolin Cai, and Bella Hadid. He has also collaborated with prestigious brands including Cartier, Adidas, Aston Martin, Bvlgari, and Martell, showcasing his versatility not only as a performer but also as a sought-after model.

In addition to his live performances, Kyle starred in the Moschino Musical, Lightning Strikes, a groundbreaking production that earned a featured spotlight on Vogue online. His unique combination of dance, choreography, and modeling has made him a standout in the global entertainment scene, continuing to inspire audiences worldwide with his artistry and commitment to excellence.

Connect on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/kyleponte_

https://www.facebook.com/kyle.ponte.5

Interview date: October 9, 2022

Episode Summary:

Menina Fortunato speaks with longtime friend and professional dancer Shirlene Quigley, who was touring with Lizzo at the time of taping The Business of Dance Podcast. Shirlene shares her inspiring journey from a late starter in dance to booking major gigs with artists like Beyoncé, Missy Elliott, and Rihanna. She talks about the challenges she faced, including body image issues and industry expectations, and how her faith, supportive family, and relentless hard work have been key to her success.

Shirlene also opens up about the struggles dancers face in maintaining confidence, particularly when confronted with rejection or criticism, and offers invaluable advice for aspiring dancers. She emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself, continuing to train, and trusting in one’s abilities, even when faced with doubts.

Shirlene also reflects on her journey with Lizzo, discussing the body positivity movement and how her own experiences have shaped her perspective. This episode is filled with motivational insights on overcoming obstacles, staying grounded in faith, and the power of resilience in the competitive dance industry.

Show Notes:

• (03:00) Shirlene’s late start in dance and how she overcame early challenges

• (06:00) Pushing forward after not making the dance team

• (09:00) The role of Millennium Dance Complex in Shirlene’s growth

• (12:00) Her first big break with Beyoncé and embracing body positivity

• (16:00) From no agent to booking major jobs: Shirlene’s journey of persistence

• (20:00) Maintaining confidence in a competitive industry

• (24:00) Shirlene’s advice on building a standout resume

• (28:00) The role of faith and family support in Shirlene’s career

• (32:00) Navigating body image and societal standards in the dance world

• (35:00) Working with artists like Missy Elliott, Lizzo, and Rihanna

• (39:00) Shirlene’s perspective on body positivity and inclusivity in dance

• (42:00) Maintaining longevity and relevance in a fast-paced industry

• (45:00) How Lizzo’s tour is reshaping industry norms

• (48:00) Balancing personal life with life on tour

• (52:00) Shirlene’s vision for the future and ministry work

• (55:00) A message of confidence, faith, and resilience for aspiring dancers

• (58:00) Final thoughts on pursuing passion and trusting the process

Biography:
Shirlene Quigley is an accomplished professional dancer, internationally recognized heels instructor, and a powerhouse performer. Born and raised in Los Angeles, California, Shirlene's dance career took off at the age of 18 when she was cast as one of the original "Uh-Oh Girls" in Beyoncé's iconic "Crazy in Love" music video. This pivotal moment catapulted Shirlene into the spotlight, and the very next day, she was touring the world with Beyoncé to promote her debut album, performing on television and in arenas worldwide.

Throughout her career, Shirlene has toured the globe with some of the most influential artists of our time, making her mark on stage, in commercials, films, and music videos. Her impressive resume includes performances with Beyoncé, Rihanna, Lizzo, Missy Elliott, Jamie Foxx, Chris Brown, Destiny’s Child, Mary J. Blige, Ashanti, Fantasia, and many more.

Shirlene's work spans a range of high-profile events, having performed on major award shows like the Grammys, MTV Video Music Awards, Teen Choice Awards, BET Awards, Soul Train Awards, Billboard Awards, and Fashion Rocks. She has also appeared on popular television and talk shows including Ellen, Good Morning America, X Factor, Saturday Night Live, America's Got Talent, Oprah, The View, So You Think You Can Dance, and David Letterman, among others.

In addition to her incredible performance career, Shirlene is an internationally respected heels instructor, known for her unique style and infectious energy. 

Connect on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/shirlenequigley

https://www.facebook.com/shirlene.quigley

Website

https://www.shirlenequigley.com/

Episode Summary:

Alisha Tallarico, a dancer, model, creative director, and producer who has worked with top artists like Jennifer Lopez, TLC, and the Pussycat Dolls. Alisha shares her inspiring journey from Vancouver to Los Angeles, where she began as a dancer and model before shifting into creative production. She discusses her experience assisting industry legends like Robin Anton and Nappy Tabs, which opened doors to opportunities with JLo and other high-profile projects.

Alisha emphasizes the power of persistence, highlighting how reaching out and asking for opportunities led to significant career growth. She also touches on the importance of balancing passion with practicality, learning from mentors, and carving out a unique path in the entertainment industry. Today, Alisha works as a talent coordinator for JLo’s team and has gained invaluable experience in both creative direction and production.

This episode offers valuable insights into the evolving nature of a dance career, encouraging aspiring dancers to think beyond performance and explore opportunities in creative roles. Alisha’s story proves that with dedication, hard work, and a willingness to learn, dreams can become reality—even when the path is not always clear from the start.

Show Notes:

• (03:00) Alicia's journey from Vancouver to Los Angeles

• (08:00) The importance of assisting to gain industry experience

• (12:00) How Alicia transitioned from dancer to creative director

• (16:00) Working with Robin Anton and Nappy Tabs

• (20:00) How to network and create opportunities in the entertainment industry

• (24:00) The role of social media in casting and job opportunities

• (28:00) Overcoming setbacks and staying resilient in a competitive field

• (32:00) The value of asking for what you want and not waiting for opportunities

• (35:00) Alicia’s current role working full-time with Jennifer Lopez

• (39:00) Balancing work, personal life, and finding career fulfillment

• (42:00) Advice for dancers transitioning to creative and production roles

• (45:00) Final thoughts on persistence, tenacity, and embracing new career paths

Biography:

Alisha Tallarico is a professional dancer, model and creative director, originally from Vancouver, now residing in Los Angeles, who has worked with some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry. 

She has an extensive background in high fashion modeling in LA Fashion Week, Miami Swim Week, Vancouver Fashion Week

She started her journey in LA by assisting Menina Fortunato with The Hollywood Summer Tour, then ROBIN ANTIN (founder of the Pussycat Dolls) & has been assisting NAPPY TABS for several years on endless projects as an associate creative director and producer.

Her career highlights include working on JLo's Concert in Italy, Netflix film “HalfTime”, iHeart Radio Fiesta Latina performance, TLC Summer Tour, and producing multiple Disney Channel Specials. 

She worked with Kylie Cantrall, helping to design merchandise, building a website, editing photos and videos, and more.  

Alisha's determination and ability to overcome setbacks have been key to her success in the industry. 

She has had to navigate difficult challenges, such as obtaining an entertainment visa and green card, but has persevered and carved out a successful career for herself both on stage and off stage. 

Connect on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/alishatallarico