Interview Date: July 26th, 2026

Episode Summary:

In this episode of The Business of Dance Podcast, Menina Fortunato reconnects with Hollywood Summer Tour alum Angelica Valente, whose journey has taken her from competitive dancer in Thunder Bay, Ontario, to an LA-based director, producer, fashion designer, and creative entrepreneur. Angelica shares how an early trip to Los Angeles changed the trajectory of her life, eventually inspiring her to move to LA at 17 to study dance. While pursuing a professional dance career, her interests in fashion, film, editing, styling, and creative direction began opening doors she never originally imagined.

Angelica opens up about navigating the entertainment industry as an international artist, from OPT and the O-1 visa process to developing the work ethic, resourcefulness, and relationships necessary to build a career in the United States. She shares how she co-founded Spaced Visuals, grew from working with emerging artists to major productions, and eventually launched her own fashion label, VALENTE. Today, her worlds of dance, film, fashion, and creative direction intersect through productions, campaigns, custom stagewear, and visual storytelling.

Throughout the conversation and mentee Q&A, Angelica encourages dancers to remain open to where their careers can lead, take risks before they feel completely ready, and create opportunities rather than waiting for permission. Her journey is a powerful reminder that dance can be the foundation for countless careers beyond performing—and that the skills dancers develop can continue shaping their success in unexpected ways.

Shownotes:

0:00 – Meet director and designer Angelica Valente

3:23 – Growing up dancing in Thunder Bay

5:15 – Discovering Los Angeles and dreaming bigger

8:06 – Expanding from dance into creative direction

9:28 – Film, editing, fashion spark new passions

11:36 – Navigating OPT and the O-1 visa

17:42 – Building Spaced Visuals from the ground up

19:26 – Launching VALENTE and learning fashion independently

21:19 – Designing custom stagewear for KATSEYE

24:33 – Recognizing how far you have come

26:32 – Taking risks before you feel ready

28:45 – How dance strengthens creative direction skills

33:14 – Q&A: Dreaming beyond what you can see

38:40 – Q&A: Create your own career opportunities

47:21 – Exploring careers beyond being the performer

Biography:

Angelica Valente is a director and fashion designer based in Los Angeles. She is the co-founder of Spaced Visuals, a multidisciplinary creative studio known for crafting cinematic campaigns, music videos, and visual identities for artists and global brands including Usher, Chris Brown, Megan Thee Stallion, Meghan Trainor, GIVĒON, Masego, PUMA, Coca-Cola, TikTok, 100 Thieves, and SoundCloud.

Alongside her production work, Angelica is the founder and creative director of VALENTE, a luxury fashion label recognized for its sculptural silhouettes, cinematic storytelling, and handcrafted collections. Since launching in 2021, VALENTE has designed custom stagewear for KATSEYE, with pieces worn during major appearances including the GRAMMYs, as well as custom looks for Paris Hilton. Her designs have also been worn by Jordin Sparks, Tori Kelly on Good Morning America, Rhea Raj, WNBA champion Jackie Young, and Atsuko Okatsuka for the Emmy Awards.

Whether directing a campaign, designing a collection, or shaping an artist’s creative era, Angelica brings together film, fashion, and brand strategy to create immersive visual identities that live seamlessly across multiple mediums. Her work is defined by bold creative direction, cinematic storytelling, and a relentless focus on crafting ideas that leave a lasting cultural impression.

Connect on Social Media:

Website:

www.spacedvisuals.com

www.valenteworld.com

Instagram:

www.instagram.com/angelicavalente_

www.instagram.com/spacedvisuals

www.instagram.com/valenteworld_

Interview Date: August 2nd, 2026

Episode Summary:

In this episode of The Business of Dance Podcast, Menina Fortunato sits down with legendary B-boy, choreographer, creative producer, and three-time World Champion Ivan “Flipz” Velez for a conversation about building a career that lasts.

Ivan shares his journey from discovering breaking and pursuing his passion in New York to becoming a professional dancer, touring internationally, working across major dance films, performing at the Olympics, and eventually expanding his career into choreography, casting, producing, stunt work, and motion capture.

Beyond the credits, Ivan gets candid about the qualities that have sustained his career: professionalism, humility, kindness, preparation, persistence, and being willing to help others. He explains why being the most talented dancer in the room isn't enough and how reputation, relationships, representation, and consistently showing up prepared can create opportunities for decades.

The conversation also explores agents, managers, publicists, personal branding, social media, and the importance of putting yourself and your work out into the world—even before you feel completely ready. Ivan reminds dancers that their individual talent deserves to be seen and that there is room for everyone to succeed.

During the mentee Q&A, Ivan shares lessons from decades in breaking, including resilience, humility, navigating injuries, and continuing to evolve. His story is a powerful example of how dance can become the vehicle to an entire career in entertainment when artists refuse to limit themselves to a single title.

Shownotes:

00:00 — Meet legendary B-boy Ivan “Flipz” Velez

08:31 — Chasing breaking’s roots all the way to NYC

09:25 — Betting on himself before booking Honey

24:40 — Reflecting on decades of unforgettable career milestones

26:43 — Why helping others can shape your career

30:20 — Professionalism becomes the secret to career longevity

31:02 — Staying humble when someone is always better

40:16 — How representation helped protect and elevate him

44:31 — Building the agent-manager-publicist dream team

48:56 — Understanding publicity as an investment in yourself

54:38 — Put yourself out there before you’re ready

1:13:00 — What breaking taught Ivan about life

1:14:43 — The physical sacrifices behind a breaking career

1:16:25 — Passion and persistence through major injuries

1:23:37 — Commit, execute, and never limit your possibilities

Biography:

Ivan “Flipz” Velez is a host, choreographer, creative producer, three-time World Champion, and renowned B-boy who began his career as a dancer and stunt performer.

Throughout his career, Ivan has toured the world with top international music icons and acted and danced in major dance films spanning the past two decades. He is also the founder of the internationally recognized Skill Methodz Crew, one of the most elite and legendary B-boy crews in the world.

Ivan continues to act in film and on stage while performing and creating across commercial projects. His infectious positive energy, endless creativity, and commitment to excellence have established him as more than an exceptional performer—he has become a trusted collaborator and creative force across entertainment.

Having built his career around his unique style, inventiveness, and out-of-the-box thinking, Ivan has carried that same creativity behind the camera, expanding his work into choreography, casting, and producing.

“See the INVISIBLE… can do the IMPOSSIBLE.” — Ivan “Flipz” Velez

https://www.instagram.com/ivanflipzvelez?utm_source=ig_profile_share&igshid=2i6wdlr5giti

Website: https://www.ivan-flipz-velez.com/

Interview Date: July 19th, 2026

Episode Summary:

In this episode, Brandon Henschel shares his journey from discovering dance at age 12 after being inspired by Michael Jackson to building a successful, decades-long career as a performer, choreographer, director, and educator. He reflects on breaking into the entertainment industry in the 1990s, landing one of his first major opportunities in a Michael Jackson music video, and commuting from San Diego to Los Angeles for auditions and professional jobs.

Brandon shares behind-the-scenes stories from major projects, including touring with Britney Spears, appearing in the iconic Pepsi commercial, performing on Lip Sync Battle, and working alongside some of the entertainment industry’s most recognizable artists and creatives. He also explains why genuine relationships, professionalism, versatility, and a positive attitude are often more valuable than relying solely on auditions.

The conversation also explores Brandon’s transition from performer to creative leader and his current work as the Resident Director of Awakening at Wynn Las Vegas. He discusses the responsibilities of managing a large-scale production, maintaining its artistic integrity, integrating new performers, and leading a diverse cast and creative team. Brandon concludes with valuable advice on accountability, leadership, musicality, audition preparation, partnering, and building a sustainable career in entertainment.

Shownotes:

0:02 – Introduction and Brandon’s entertainment career overview

2:59 – Discovering dance through Michael Jackson at age 12

7:46 – Landing a Michael Jackson video as his first major job

10:00 – Viewing auditions as valuable networking opportunities

13:25 – Why relationships create long-term career opportunities

15:18 – Performing with Britney Spears and booking the Pepsi commercial

17:00 – Navigating massive auditions and intimidating private callbacks

22:17 – Commercial residuals and career-changing performance opportunities

24:00 – Filming From Justin to Kelly in Miami

29:50 – Inside the spectacular Las Vegas production Awakening

35:13 – Transitioning from professional performer to resident director

40:25 – Developing the leadership skills required to manage performers

46:39 – Why accountability is essential in every career

50:00 – Q&A: Audition advice for acrobatic dancers

53:05 – Q&A: Balancing school, training, and professional goals

For over 30 years, Brandon Henschel has worked as a choreographer and director across film, television, live events, and theatre. His clients and collaborators include Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie, Tobey Maguire, Taylor Swift, Carrie Underwood, Britney Spears, and Beyoncé.

Brandon currently serves as the Resident Director of Awakening, named Best Production Show in Las Vegas, at Wynn Resorts. He has held the position for three consecutive years, overseeing the performers and helping maintain the artistic integrity of the large-scale production.

In addition to his professional work, Brandon has taught internationally for more than 20 years. He is passionate about developing the next generation of performers through foundational technique, musicality, professionalism, and a strong work ethic.

Connect on Social Media:

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/thebrandonhenschel/

Interview Date: July 12th, 2026

Episode Summary:

In this episode, Tanya Jane shares her journey from a young professional dancer in Australia to building a thriving career in Los Angeles—and ultimately transitioning into a seven-figure success energetics coaching business. After moving to LA at just 19, she navigated visas, broke into the industry without connections, and built a decade-long career performing on some of the world’s biggest stages alongside major artists.

Tanya opens up about the realities of the dance industry, including rejection, audition pressure, and the mental resilience required to sustain long-term success. She shares practical advice on securing representation, standing out in auditions, and creating opportunities for yourself—emphasizing the importance of persistence, preparation, and taking bold action even when the path is uncertain.

The conversation then shifts into her transition out of dance and into entrepreneurship, where she built a 7-figure coaching business rooted in mindset and “success energetics.” Tanya breaks down how shifting internal beliefs can transform external results, offering tools to help dancers overcome rejection, reframe setbacks, and step into aligned, expansive success. The episode closes with a Q&A, where she answers questions on moving cities, building confidence, and navigating fear in the entertainment industry.

Show Notes 

0:00 – Introduction and Tanya’s career overview

2:30 – Early dance training and professional start

6:05 – Moving to LA and visa challenges

7:18 – Booking contract and preparing financially

9:42 – First LA audition and getting signed

11:31 – O-1 visa process and requirements

14:41 – Securing sponsorship and staying in LA

17:10 – Taking risks and asking for opportunities

20:11 – Building credentials and industry positioning

25:51 – Favorite jobs and performance experiences

27:25 – Transition from dance to entrepreneurship

30:00 – Mindset shift and career transformation

34:41 – Four-step energy flip for rejection

44:07 – Q&A: moving to a new city mindset

53:27 – Q&A: fear, confidence, industry advice

Biography:

Tanya Jane is a former professional dancer turned success energetics mentor for high-achieving women ready to 10x their life, business, and income—without burnout.

Originally from Sydney, Australia, she moved to Los Angeles at 19 to pursue her dream of becoming a professional dancer. She went on to build a decade-long career performing on some of the world’s biggest stages and television productions, working with artists including Cher, Nick Jonas, Bad Bunny, Will Smith, Marc Anthony, and Bebe Rexha.

Today, Tanya is the founder of a 7-figure coaching business where she blends her experience of pursuing “unrealistic” dreams with scalable wealth strategies and aligned action. Through her work, she helps women break through limiting beliefs, elevate their mindset, and create extraordinary success—while fully living an extraordinary life.

Connect on Social Media:

Website: https://www.thetanyajane.com/so

dInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetanyajane/

Interview: July 5th, 2026

Episode Summary:

In this episode, German Morales—talent agent, manager, producer, and founder of MGMT Artists—shares an inside look into the entertainment industry and what it truly takes to build a sustainable career as a performer. With over 20 years of experience, German walks through his unconventional journey from aspiring actor to becoming a leading talent representative, highlighting how his background in business and passion for entertainment ultimately shaped his career path.

German breaks down the day-to-day role of an agent, from reviewing casting breakdowns and submitting talent to negotiating contracts and developing artists long-term. He emphasizes the importance of strong branding, professional materials—especially headshots and reels—and the value of persistence when seeking representation. A key takeaway from this episode is the power of being a multi-hyphenate performer. Dancers who can also act, sing, or model significantly increase their opportunities and marketability in today’s industry.

The conversation also explores the current audition landscape, where self-tapes dominate, along with practical advice on how to stand out, avoid common mistakes, and leverage tools like social media and AI. German also shares insights into iPOP, a global talent showcase that connects performers with industry professionals, and how opportunities like this can accelerate exposure and career growth. The episode concludes with a live Q&A, offering real-time guidance for dancers navigating representation, submissions, and long-term career strategy.

Show Notes

0:00 – Introduction to German Morales and career

2:03 – From aspiring actor to talent agent

6:08 – Inside an agent’s daily responsibilities

7:49 – Types of talent and notable clients

11:31 – How to get signed by an agent

13:33 – What iPOP is and how it works

15:40 – Notable success stories from iPOP

17:10 – How to apply and audition for iPOP

20:06 – Importance of being a multi-hyphenate performer

21:42 – How to become a talent agent

28:00 – What makes a strong submission stand out

33:24 – Why dancers should learn acting

38:03 – When and how to submit to agencies

50:07 – Self-tapes vs in-person auditions today

53:00 – Closing

Biography:

German E. Morales is a talent agent, manager, producer, and founder of MGMT Artists. With more than 20 years of experience in the entertainment industry, he has helped launch and develop the careers of actors, models, singers, and performers who have appeared in major television shows, films, national commercials, and even Academy Award-nominated productions.

He is also a managing partner of iPOP!, one of the world’s leading talent discovery events, connecting aspiring performers with top agents, managers, casting directors, and producers. A voting member of the Television Academy, German is passionate about helping the next generation of talent break into the entertainment industry and build lasting careers.

Connect on Social Media:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/german_mgmtartists_/

Website: https://mgmtartists.com/

Interview Date: June 28th, 2026

Episode Summary:

In this episode, Tina Oleff, agent at MSA Talent Agency, shares her dynamic journey through the dance industry—from her early days as a competitive dancer in Ohio to building a multifaceted career across performance, production, broadcasting, and talent representation. She highlights how there is no single path to success, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, curiosity, and trusting your instincts when navigating a career in dance.

Tina gives an inside look at what agents are truly searching for when signing dancers, breaking down the importance of professionalism, strong training, clear submissions, and authenticity. She explains that talent alone is not enough—dancers must also be reliable, coachable, and easy to work with. She also shares actionable insights on how dancers can get noticed today, whether through classes, conventions, or digital submissions.

Throughout the episode, Tina answers questions from dancers, offering guidance on breaking into major markets, avoiding common submission mistakes, and building lasting industry relationships. Her message is clear: focus on becoming undeniable through consistency, character, and connection—because success in this industry is built on more than just talent.

Shownotes:

0:00 – Introduction and Tina’s career journey overview

2:00 – Early training and starting teaching young

4:00 – Moving to NYC and industry immersion

6:20 – Injury leading to unexpected career pivot

8:00 – Transition into conventions and agency work

9:30 – Joining MSA and career breakthrough

11:20 – How dancers get signed today

12:00 – What makes a strong submission stand out

13:20 – Demo reels vs single clips explained

14:10 – Education pathways and industry exposure

17:30 – College training vs commercial dance reality

19:30 – Red flags agents notice immediately

21:00 – What agents look for beyond talent

22:00 – Importance of relationships and networking

28:30 – Reality of training after getting signed

41:00- Benefits of industry systems like ICDR

43:30 – Handling negativity and industry pushback

48:20 – Q&A: Maintaining relationships and networking authentically

Biography:

Tina Oleff, originally from Cleveland, Ohio, began her dance training at age six and grew up dancing competitively. She started teaching at just 16 years old before continuing her dance studies at Arizona State University.

She later relocated to New York City, where she trained at Broadway Dance Center, Steps on Broadway, and Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. During this time, she immersed herself in the dance community—assisting faculty, building meaningful industry relationships, and teaching extensively throughout the New York metropolitan area.

Tina holds a bachelor’s degree in Communication Arts and Marketing from Marymount Manhattan College and brings a diverse professional background spanning dance, production, and broadcast. Her experience includes working with top dance conventions and competitions, serving as an assistant to a prominent on-air sports broadcaster at ESPN, and gaining early experience within a leading dance agency. This multifaceted background gives her a unique and well-rounded perspective on the entertainment industry.

She is currently an agent within the Talent and Education Departments at MSA Agency, where she leads the Los Angeles MSA KATS Division and MSA Education. Tina uses her expertise and network to support young artists, connect educators and choreographers with meaningful opportunities, and guide industry professionals in achieving their goals. Driven by her passion for dance and mentorship, she believes every artist has the ability to dream boldly, grow with confidence, and build an extraordinary career both in and beyond the industry.

Connect on Social Media:Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/teenie0/

MSA:

https://www.instagram.com/msa_kats/

https://www.instagram.com/msa_education/

https://www.instagram.com/msaagency/

Interview Date: June 21st , 2026

Episode Summary:

In this powerful and expansive conversation, Jeff Thacker—executive producer of So You Think You Can Dance—shares his journey from an untrained school dancer to one of the most influential figures in global dance entertainment. He walks through each stage of his career evolution—from performer to choreographer to producer—emphasizing that longevity in the industry comes from adaptability, curiosity, and the willingness to start over at the bottom of a new ladder.

Jeff dives deep into the realities of the dance industry, challenging dancers to move beyond the idea of “dreams” and instead take ownership through action, discipline, and choice. He highlights the importance of being well-rounded, building strong technical foundations, and developing a distinct personal identity. Drawing from his experience casting over 60,000 dancers, he reinforces that success is not just about talent—it’s about being memorable, coachable, and aligned with opportunity.

The episode also explores the legacy and impact of So You Think You Can Dance, the creation of the Dance Hall of Fame, and the importance of honoring dance history while creating future opportunities. Through candid Q&A with young dancers, Jeff offers practical advice on auditions, career transitions, and avoiding common mistakes. His core message is clear: dancers have the power to shape their own path—through consistency, resilience, and the choices they make every day.

Shownotes:

0:00 – Jeff Thacker introduction and career highlights

3:30 – Early dance journey and late formal training

6:00 – Transition from dancer to choreographer

9:50 – Career evolution into production and TV

12:30 – Building So You Think You Can Dance

15:30 – Creating opportunities for dancers and choreographers 18:30 – Audition insights and casting perspective

21:30 – Dance as a lifelong evolving career

24:00 – Importance of versatility and technical foundation 27:30 – Advice for young dancers and training mindset

30:30 – Dance Hall of Fame mission and impact

34:30 – Industry legacy and honoring dance history

41:30 – Q&A: career transitions and biggest mistakes

51:30 – Navigating professional dance opportunities

58:30 – Future of So You Think You Can Dance and final advice

Biography:

Jeff Thacker is recognized as one of the foremost entertainment producers in both American and British television. With a career spanning dance, choreography, and production, he has worked with some of the biggest global names in the entertainment industry.

He began his career as a dancer with the BBC’s renowned group The Dougie Squires Second Generation, performing on a weekly live television show that built his foundation in performance and production. Transitioning into choreography, Jeff created iconic work including Robert Palmer’s Addicted to Love, which became a global phenomenon.

Over the years, Jeff has earned numerous prestigious awards, including a BAFTA, an Emmy, multiple nominations, and international television honors. His work spans major productions with artists such as Elton John, Celine Dion, Jennifer Lopez, Cher, and Diana Ross, among many others.

In 2005, Jeff became a Senior Producer and original judge on So You Think You Can Dance, later serving as Executive Producer for 17 seasons. He played a pivotal role in shaping the show’s global success, contributing to its 70+ Emmy nominations and international adaptations across more than 30 countries.

Beyond television, Jeff has produced major events including the BAFTA Awards, Royal Variety Performances, and American Idol specials. Most recently, he served as Executive Producer and Showrunner for the Dance Hall of Fame, continuing his mission to elevate and honor the legacy of dance worldwide.

Connect on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/jeffthacker

Interview Date: October 20th, 2025Episode Summary:This special red carpet episode of The Business of Dance Podcast takes you inside the Gala of the Stars at the Beverly Hilton, a powerful evening supporting Dancers Against Cancer. Host Menina Fortunato interviews some of the most influential names in dance and entertainment, capturing real-time insights, career advice, and heartfelt moments from industry legends, rising stars, and changemakers.Throughout the episode, guests like Debbie Gibson, Abby Lee Miller, Robbie Blue, Allison Holker, and Vincent Paterson share what it truly takes to build a sustainable career in the dance industry. From mastering your craft and showing up prepared, to understanding your value, building relationships, and thinking long-term, a common theme emerges: success in dance is as much about professionalism, mindset, and business awareness as it is about talent.Beyond career insights, the episode highlights the deep sense of community within the dance world—celebrating mentorship, friendship, philanthropy, and resilience. With emotional stories, legacy reflections, and powerful advice, this episode serves as both inspiration and a reminder that dance is not just an art form, but a vehicle for impact, connection, and purpose.Show Notes 0:00 – Red carpet kickoff at Gala of the Stars2:30 – Debbie Gibson on longevity and performer value5:45 – Advice: be early, prepared, and unique9:10 – JoJo Siwa on impact and fundraising excitement12:00 – Abby Lee Miller on professionalism and presentation16:45 – Robbie Blue on Tate McRae VMA concept20:30 – What choreographers look for in dancers25:15 – Allison Holker on vision, goals, and longevity30:40 – Julie McDonald on treating dance as a business35:20 – Vincent Paterson on podcast inspiration story40:10 – Sabrina Bryan on career longevity and adaptability45:55 – Autumn Miller & Sophia Lucia on growth and goals52:30 – Industry leaders on philanthropy and impact57:40 – Business advice: training, finances, and branding1:02:45 – Closing reflections on community and purposeConnect on Social Media:https://www.instagram.com/industrydanceawards/https://www.facebook.com/IndustryDanceAwards/https://www.instagram.com/imadanceragainstcancer/https://www.facebook.com/iadacfoundation/Websitehttp://industrydanceawards.com/http://imadanceragainstcancer.org/Connect with GuestsDebbie Gibson - https://www.instagram.com/debbiegibson/Jojo Siwa - https://www.instagram.com/itsjojosiwa/Abby Lee Miller - https://www.instagram.com/therealabbylee/Robbie Blue - https://www.instagram.com/itsrobbiesworld_/Allison Holker - https://www.instagram.com/allisonholker/Julie Macdonald- https://www.instagram.com/juliemcdonaldmsa/Vincent Paterson - https://www.instagram.com/vlpla/Sabrina Bryan https://www.instagram.com/sabrina.bryan/Sophia Lucia https://www.instagram.com/_sophialucia/Autumn Miller - https://www.instagram.com/autumnmiller/Danielle Guillermo - https://www.instagram.com/daniellestenguillermo/Lance Guillermo -https://www.instagram.com/lancefreshness/Enola Bedard - https://www.instagram.com/enola.bedard/ Anita Mann - https://www.instagram.com/anitamannprod/Jeff Thacker -https://www.instagram.com/jeffthacker/Richard Jay Alexander - https://www.instagram.com/broadwaydick/Tia Stokes - https://www.instagram.com/thetiabeestokes/Mandy Moore- https://www.instagram.com/nopenother/Michelle Webb -https://www.spotlightevents.com/about-index

Interview Date: June 14th, 2026

Episode Summary:

In this episode, Julian Mireles shares his unconventional journey into dance, beginning with a background in martial arts and overcoming early physical limitations. Starting later than most, Julian developed a deep curiosity for movement, leading him to study anatomy, biomechanics, and performance science to accelerate his growth and prevent injury.

Julian breaks down how his personal struggles shaped the creation of the BodyTech Method—a system built on the belief that strength must come before flexibility. He dives into the gaps within traditional dance training, emphasizing the importance of stability, alignment, and long-term dancer health. Through trial, rejection, and persistence, he transformed his knowledge into a globally recognized training system used by dancers and athletes worldwide.

Beyond technique, the conversation explores entrepreneurship, scaling a business, and building authority in a competitive industry. Julian shares insights on mindset, resilience, and creating opportunities, leaving dancers with actionable advice on how to build sustainable, long-term careers both on and off the stage.

Shownotes:

0:01 – Introduction and unconventional start in dance
3:28 – Starting late and accelerating development
5:34 – Learning anatomy to improve performance
6:14 – Pandemic pivot to online training platform
7:41 – Turning setbacks into scalable opportunities
9:00 – Building a business independently
11:33 – Facing rejection and proving credibility
14:20 – Leveraging relationships for growth
19:27 – Developing long-term vision and mindset
24:45 – Positioning within the dance industry
30:05 – Gaps in traditional dancer training
36:15 – Shifting from dancer to entrepreneur
42:10 – Building authority and industry trust
48:50 – Systems for sustainable growth
1:02:45 – Final reflections on discipline and success

Biography:

Julian Mireles is a flexibility, strength, and biomechanics specialist, entrepreneur, and educator, best known as the founder of Bodybreaker Corp and creator of the BodyTech Method. With over 20 years of experience in dance and athletic training, he has built a global reputation for redefining flexibility through strength, stability, and functional movement.

His method integrates anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and injury prevention to help dancers and athletes improve performance safely. Developed through years of research and experience, his system includes over 1,700 exercises targeting flexibility, mobility, turnout, jump mechanics, and overall body control.

Through private coaching, studio intensives, teacher education, and online platforms, Julian has trained thousands of dancers worldwide. His students have earned top scholarships, titles, and industry recognition. Rooted in his philosophy, “strength creates safe flexibility,” his work focuses on longevity, measurable progress, and building resilient, high-performing bodies.

Based in Miami, he continues to expand the BodyTech Method globally while educating the next generation of dancers and athletes.

Connect on Social Media:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bodytechmethod/?hl=en

Interview Date: June 7th, 2026

Episode Summary:

This episode dives into Sienna Morris’s journey from a dedicated young dancer to a working professional in Los Angeles, highlighting the mindset, preparation, and initiative required to succeed in today’s dance industry. From choosing dance over gymnastics at an early age to navigating a short-lived opportunity in Monaco, Sienna demonstrates the importance of trusting your instincts and making bold decisions that align with your long-term goals. Her transition into the LA scene, including joining Ballet Red, marked a pivotal shift into the professional world and set the foundation for her evolving career.

Throughout the conversation, Sienna emphasizes the power of self-advocacy, networking, and consistency. She shares how introducing herself in rooms, building genuine relationships, and staying visible have directly led to opportunities. A standout mindset she lives by is her “24-hour rule” for handling rejection—allowing herself time to process before moving forward with clarity and focus. She also speaks on the importance of versatility, expanding into acting and performance, and developing multiple skill sets to remain competitive in a fast-paced industry.

The episode also explores preparation and personal branding. Sienna discusses how having strong materials—reels, a professional website, and a clear online presence—helped her enter the LA market with confidence. She reflects on mentorship through Business of Dance, landing brand deals, and learning to confidently negotiate her worth. Ultimately, her story reinforces that success in dance goes beyond talent—it requires ownership, resilience, and strong relationships. Her message is clear: the dancers who take initiative and build connections are the ones who create lasting careers.

Shownotes:

0:01 – Introduction and Sienna Morris full-circle journey

2:57 – Mentorship experience and early career reflections

4:05 – Early training and choosing dance path

6:37 – Monaco opportunity and trusting your instincts

9:42 – Moving to LA and Ballet Red experience

10:22 – Networking, visibility, and self-advocacy

14:12 – Handling rejection with “24-hour rule”

17:45 – Building versatility across dance and acting

18:48 – College path versus going professional early

23:00 – Preparing materials before entering LA market

26:44 – Business of Dance impact on branding

30:00 – First brand deal and negotiating value

32:20 – Social media strategy and consistency

41:34 – Agents vs self-submissions and ownership

49:55 – Relationships matter: contacts equal contracts

Biography:

Sienna Morris is an LA-based dancer, actor, model, choreographer, and educator whose work blends contemporary ballet with the versatility of today’s entertainment industry. Known for combining the control of classical ballet with the musicality and storytelling of contemporary movement, she moves seamlessly between concert dance, commercial performance, film, and live entertainment.

Her credits include work with Halsey, Evanescence, Derek Hough, and Mark Ballas, as well as collaborations with leading creatives such as Marguerite Derricks, Kyle Hanagami, and Chris Scott. She has appeared in campaigns for FP Movement, Gap, and Jo+Jax.

A defining milestone in her career was her appearance on the Star Search, expanding her reach to an international audience. Most recently, she served as associate choreographer on My Boyfriend Is a Demon, continuing to grow her work in choreography, movement direction, and film.

Alongside performing, Sienna teaches, choreographs, and mentors the next generation while building a career centered on proving that contemporary ballet can thrive within commercial entertainment and mainstream media.Connect on Social Media

Website: www.Sienna-morris.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sisimorris/