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

Episode Summary:

Juliana Spicoluk, a former dancer turned global wellness influencer. Juliana's journey from rhythmic gymnastics in Ukraine to the entertainment world and eventually to creating the Boho Beautiful brand is a testament to resilience, passion, and reinvention.

Juliana shares her personal story, from her beginnings in gymnastics and dance to her breakthrough with Boho Beautiful, which now boasts millions of subscribers and views. Her transition from the entertainment industry to health and wellness—focusing on yoga, Pilates, and mindfulness—was a natural evolution. Her ability to pivot from one career to another without losing her passion for movement is an inspiration to anyone in the arts.

If you're a dancer, wellness enthusiast, or someone seeking to build a meaningful career in the creative industry, this episode is packed with wisdom and motivation. 

Show Notes:

• (0:00) Introduction to Juliana Spicoluk, founder of Boho Beautiful

• (2:00) Juliana’s transition from rhythmic gymnastics to dance

• (6:00) Moving from entertainment to wellness with yoga and Pilates

• (10:00) Creating Boho Beautiful and building a global brand

• (12:30) Importance of cross-training for dancers

• (15:00) How dance influences Juliana’s wellness work

• (18:00) Managing multiple passions and avoiding burnout

• (21:00) Building an authentic personal brand on social media

• (24:00) Growth of Boho Beautiful on YouTube

• (28:00) Overcoming challenges in the entertainment industry

• (32:00) Tips for dancers on staying consistent and focused

• (35:00) Using yoga and Pilates to improve dance performance

• (38:00) Juliana’s focus on healing and trauma recovery

• (42:00) Final thoughts on passion, authenticity, and career evolution

Biography:

Juliana's journey began in Siberia, Russia, and she grew up in a small village in Eastern Ukraine until she was 10. At that age, she, along with her parents and brother, moved to Vancouver, Canada.

Her passion for Rhythmic Gymnastics ignited at the age of 7, shaping her early years into a full-time sports career. Juliana achieved remarkable milestones, becoming a two-time Canadian National Champion, earning silver and bronze medals at the Junior Pan American Games, and representing Canada in global competitions and World Championships. She even trained with the Canadian Olympic Development Team in preparation for the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Unfortunately, a back injury dashed her Olympic dreams, leading her to retire from athletics to focus on her health.

Post-retirement, Juliana discovered a new passion for dance, quickly becoming a competitive dancer and performing professionally with renowned artists like Beyoncé, Michael Buble, and on projects like "Sucker Punch" with Vanessa Hudgens. Additionally, she was part of the Girl Group "VNTY," signed to Universal Music Canada.

Juliana has pursued various certifications in personal training, Pilates, and Yoga, including a 500-hour YTT from schools in Costa Rica and India. She continues to travel the world, learning from different opportunities, friends, and healers.

Juliana's most profound role is that of a mother to her son, Xavian Lionheart Spicoluk, who has become her greatest teacher and spiritual guide. Today, she is known for her content centered around yoga, fitness, guided meditations, vegan food, self-awareness, and conscious living through her company, Boho Beautiful.

Juliana, along with her husband and partner, Mark Spicoluk, has grown Boho Beautiful into a thriving community with over 2.8 million YouTube subscribers, 425,000+ Instagram followers, and a substantial following for their books and online programs. 

Their Boho Beautiful YouTube channel garners approximately 6-7 million monthly views, with a lifetime total of 435 million views since its inception.

Connect on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/juliana.spicoluk

https://www.facebook.com/julianaspicoluk.bohobeautiful

https://www.youtube.com/live/nsOiSMk611w

Website

www.julianaspicoluk.com

Episode Summary:

Lauren Ritchie, a mental skills educator and dance teacher, to explore the importance of mental skills for dancers. Lauren shares her personal journey of transitioning from competitive dance to the professional world, where she faced challenges like identity struggles and an eating disorder. She discusses how her experience led her to develop expertise in mental performance and psychological well-being for dancers.

Throughout the conversation, Lauren offers practical advice for dancers, particularly younger ones, on how to manage expectations, embrace imperfection, and explore their identities beyond just being "a dancer." She shares tools to overcome perfectionism, build self-awareness, and navigate the pressures of a highly competitive industry. This episode is a powerful reminder of the importance of mental wellness in the pursuit of a sustainable and successful dance career.

Show Notes:

• (0:00) Introduction to Lauren Ritchie, mental skills educator and dance teacher

• (2:00) Lauren’s transition from competitive dancer to mental performance educator

• (5:00) The importance of mental skills training for dancers

• (8:00) Overcoming identity crises and personal challenges

• (12:00) Self-compassion and breaking free from perfectionism

• (15:30) Mental skills as crucial as physical training

• (18:00) Managing expectations and dealing with disappointment

• (22:00) Mental and physical health for performance

• (25:00) Overcoming comparison and fostering a healthy self-narrative

• (28:00) Building resilience with mental performance techniques

• (32:00) Lauren’s mental skills curriculum for dancers

• (35:00) Tips for young dancers struggling mentally and emotionally

• (38:00) Rest and recovery for optimal performance

• (42:00) Using self-awareness to overcome negative thoughts

• (45:00) How to integrate mental skills into daily routines

• (48:00) Conclusion: Lauren’s advice for dancers navigating their careers

Biography:

Lauren Ritchie has been studying, researching, and educating dancers on the physical, emotional and mental intricacies of dance. Lauren has made it her life’s work to support dancers to be their best – mind, body and spirit. Recognizing the lack of mental skills training in dance, Lauren has created programs and exercises dedicated to educating and empowering dancers mental health and fitness to optimize their training. From her MEd in Coaching Studies to a BA in Professional Communications, to multiple Yoga certifications and an accredited Art & Science of Coaching Certification, Lauren has a unique blend of education and resources that offer a holistic training approach for dancers.

Lauren has firsthand knowledge of the attributes required to achieve and sustain peak performance. She was a highly competitive and decorated dancer having classically trained in ballet, jazz, tap and lyrical.

After completing her Advanced R.A.D, Lauren knew she “wanted to dance” but had little guidance and awareness of the true process of transitioning into a professional dance career. This is why Lauren has created and hosts The Dance Podcast, an invaluable resource dedicated to inspire and educate dancers, teachers, and parents through candid conversations with industry professionals.

Lauren is an established facilitator and speaker, delivering workshops to prestigious schools and training programs like the Alberta Ballet School and Harbour Dance Centre. She is the co-founder of the Dance Teacher reTREAT AND has also facilitated and contributed to the DTRC’s on the Move workshops speaking to aspiring dancers in Calgary.  Her career achievements had also been recognized as she was a recipient of the Edmontonian’s Top 20 under 30.

Connect on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/lauren_m_ritchie

https://www.facebook.com/share/1BQryvrffZ/

Website

https://withlauren.ca/
https://thedancepodcast.com/

Episode Summary:

Sherry Lin, a registered dietitian, nutritionist, and professional dancer. Sherry discusses how dancers and athletes can fuel their bodies effectively to perform at their highest level without resorting to restrictive diets. She highlights the importance of developing a personalized fueling strategy, rather than following rigid meal plans, to ensure long-term energy, recovery, and optimal performance.

Sherry shares insights into the mistakes many dancers make, such as under-eating or focusing too much on dieting, and instead promotes a flexible, sustainable approach to nutrition. She introduces the "performance plate" method, which helps dancers balance carbohydrates, protein, and vegetables according to their activity levels, whether they’re on low, moderate, or high-intensity days. Sherry also addresses the importance of meal timing around training and recovery to enhance muscle repair and energy replenishment.

Throughout the conversation, Sherry emphasizes the importance of self-awareness in understanding nutritional needs and encourages dancers to be their own “badass detective” to assess their unique bodies. She also offers tips on meal prep, even for busy schedules, and discusses her Optimal Performance Nutrition program, which guides dancers through creating their personalized nutrition plans.

This episode is packed with practical tips and advice for dancers looking to improve their energy levels, reduce recovery time, and sustain a healthy career through thoughtful nutrition.

Show Notes:

• (0:00) Introduction to Sherry Lin, registered dietitian and professional dancer

• (2:30) Sherry’s journey from Chicago to LA and booking her first commercial

• (6:00) Nutrition’s impact on dancer performance

• (9:00) Common mistakes dancers make with diets and fueling

• (12:30) The "performance plate" and adapting meals for intensity levels

• (16:00) Why fueling strategies are better than rigid diets

• (18:30) Intuitive eating and why it's not ideal for high performers

• (22:00) Balancing physical, emotional, and mental health with food

• (25:00) Post-training nutrition for recovery and energy

• (28:00) Sherry’s Optimal Performance Nutrition program

• (32:00) Easy meal prep tips for dancers

• (35:00) Sherry’s approach to self-awareness and healthy eating

• (38:00) How to get started with Sherry’s program

• (40:00) Conclusion and actionable steps for creating fueling strategies

Biography:

Hailing from Chicago, Sherry Lin is a certified registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) and dancer 

Within her first year in LA, Sherry booked her first commercial, two print advertisements, and a guest appearance on a mini-series directed by Lulu Wang, starring Sarayu Blue, Nicole Kidman, and Ji-Young Yoo.

She performed for several years with Hip Hop ConnXion Dance Company and earned a Master’s in Fine Arts in Dance from the University of Michigan.

Sherry is also the founder of Rhythm and Nutrition, INC, a nutrition counseling service helping high achievers fuel their bodies so they can sustain doing what they love to their highest ability! 

Sherry completed her nutrition degree at the University of Illinois at Chicago and has over ten years of experience working as a dietitian specializing in performance nutrition and eating disorder recovery. She promotes holistic wellness through dance, nutrition, faith, and community.

Connect on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/sherrylin.rd

Website

https://www.sherrylinrd.com/

Episode Summary:

Galit Friedlander, a multi-talented professional dancer, choreographer, coach, and personal trainer. Galit shares her inspiring journey from growing up in New York City to becoming a successful industry professional. She discusses the challenges of pursuing a dance career, the importance of mental and physical fitness, and how to balance auditioning with training. Galit also talks about the value of cross-training for dancers, emphasizing that just like any athlete, dancers need to strengthen their bodies outside of dance to avoid injury and improve performance. 

She highlights her passion for teaching and choreographing, specifically in hip hop and street styles, and gives valuable tips for dancers on how to approach auditions, cultivate relationships in the industry, and stay grounded in their unique self. The episode wraps up with Galit sharing her expertise on nutrition and fitness, offering practical advice for dancers who are constantly on the go. This episode is packed with insights on how to build a sustainable and successful dance career through hard work, continual learning, and self-care.

Show Notes:

• (0:00) Introduction to Galit Friedlander

• (2:00) Galit’s early dance journey and how she reconnected with dance at 12

• (5:30) Transitioning from theater to dance and attending USC for a degree

• (9:00) The lack of a clear roadmap for becoming a professional dancer in LA

• (12:00) The importance of learning through experiences and the inspiration behind her podcast

• (15:00) Lessons learned: why you’re never too old to be a dancer

• (18:00) The value of taking classes vs. auditioning and finding the balance

• (21:00) The pressure of fitting a certain “look” and staying true to your authentic self

• (25:00) Galit’s focus on fitness and cross-training for dancers to prevent injury and improve performance

• (28:00) How fitness plays a key role in a dancer’s longevity and ability to book work

• (32:00) The role of mindset in achieving success as a dancer

• (35:00) Advice for dancers on how to approach auditions and the importance of being yourself

• (38:00) Galit’s experiences choreographing for the WNBA’s LA Sparks and dancing for Pharrell

• (42:00) The significance of building relationships and networking in the dance industry

• (45:00) Tips for balancing dance, fitness, and personal health for optimal performance

• (50:00) Closing advice: embrace what makes you unique and continue learning and growing in your journey

Biography:

Galit Friedlander is a professional dancer, choreographer, coach, and host of the popular podcast DanceSpeak.

In her 17+ years in the industry, Galit has choreographed for the musical artist Prince and the WNBA’s LA Sparks.

She has danced on projects for Pharell and MC Lyte. Galit is also a recurring host for the Doctors 4 Dancers online talk series. 

Galit’s mission is to expand the knowledge and untapped gifts of others through dance, exercise, and intentional choreography to empower them to own their essence and boost their artistry in and out of this dance space.

Connect on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/gogalit

https://www.facebook.com/galit.friedlander

Website

https://www.gogalit.com/