Interview Date: December 14th, 2025.

In this episode of Business of Dance, Menina sits down with veteran performer and powerhouse industry staple Sarah Mitchell, who joins the conversation nine months pregnant and still glowing (literally). Sarah takes us back to her beginnings in Western Massachusetts—starting dance at two-and-a-half, falling in love with NYC after seeing the Rockettes at age nine, and boldly moving to New York City with limited money but unstoppable determination. From becoming a Patriots cheerleader in high school (and earning a Super Bowl ring) to landing the Knicks City Dancers through a Good Morning America public vote, Sarah breaks down how dance teams can be a career-launching network, training ground, and built-in community for dancers moving to major markets.

Sarah shares a full-circle story that shaped her career: after moving to LA with no plan besides “I have to be here,” she booked American Gladiators—only for the dance cast to be cut. That “loss” led directly to her booking a Jell-O commercial, meeting Jerry Slaughter, and soon finding herself dancing with Christina Aguilera—the same artist she once watched from the audience dreaming of being on stage. From there, the episode dives into Sarah’s long-running work with major artists and productions, including Christina Aguilera (spanning roughly 2007/2008 to 2024), Britney Spears’ Vegas residency, Burlesque, and the realities of auditioning, touring, and navigating the emotional highs and lows of a freelance performance career—especially as life expands into marriage and motherhood.

Shownotes:

(0:00) – Welcome
(7:01) – Full intro: Sarah Mitchell’s career highlights
(11:40) – Early beginnings: Western MA, Rockettes inspiration
(12:30) – Patriots cheerleaders, Super Bowl ring, early confidence
(13:17) – Knicks City Dancers + Good Morning America vote
(17:01) – Cross-country move to LA, starting from scratch
(20:26) – American Gladiators canceled → pivotal career shift
(22:28) – Booking Christina Aguilera through Jerry Slaughter
(30:15) – Burlesque stories: doubles, endurance, golden time
(50:37) – Q&A wisdom: preparation, mindset, longevity, balance

Biography:

A dancer and choreographer with over 20 years of experience, Mitchell has toured and performed with artists such as Christina Aguilera, Katy Perry, Pitbull and Dua Lipa. She co-starred on the E! Network’s The Dance Scene and has had featured appearances in films such as Burlesque, La La Land, and Music and Lyrics. Sarah performed with Britney Spears in her Las Vegas residency “Piece of Me” for five years, and has appeared on numerous television and award shows including The Voice, Dancing with the Stars, American Housewife and Oprah.

For the last decade, Sarah has worked with the NFL and choreographed for the NBA, including multiple NBA All Star Game performances. She recently worked as movement director for Olivia Rodrigo, Christina Aguilera’s new perfume campaign and Aveda. Sarah is also a producer as well as an editor and a mother.

Connect on Social Media:

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

Interview date: December 7th, 2025

Episode Summary:

Brooke Lipton—Emmy-nominated choreographer and longtime Hollywood Vibe faculty member—joins Business of Dance to share her journey from booking her first professional job at 12 to building a lasting career in dance, television, and choreography. She reflects on moving to Los Angeles at 18, training relentlessly, learning how to care for her body, and developing the discipline needed to survive in a competitive industry.

Brooke opens up about touring with Britney Spears, becoming a young mother, and making the pivotal transition from performer to choreographer. She breaks down how assisting, understanding life on set, and respecting every department shaped her leadership style and allowed her to create healthier, more sustainable environments for dancers.

In the Q&A, Brooke delivers honest advice on confidence, comparison, and work ethic—urging dancers to go “full out,” attack their weaknesses, stay adaptable, and remember that joy and resilience are essential to longevity in this industry.

Shownotes:

(0:00) – Welcome + introduction to Brooke Lipton
(6:10) – Career overview: tours, TV, choreography credits
(9:46) – Phoenix beginnings + first job at 12

(12:30) – Moving to LA at 18, full-time training
(14:29) – Health, body awareness, and longevity
(17:28) – The haircut moment: identity and visibility
(21:54) – Britney Spears tours + touring realities
(25:49) – Touring while pregnant, life balance
(31:52) – Transition into choreography via Glee
(34:33) – Hiring dancers and creating opportunities
(45:37) – Advice: fundamentals, weaknesses, discipline
(1:17:50) – Closing message: confidence, joy, resilience

Biography:

Brooke Lipton’s energy is contagious. Originally known as an exceptional natural dancer, she is now an accomplished choreographer who thoroughly understands the requirements of dramatic TV photography and production.

A native of Phoenix, AZ, Brooke was already a rising star in the LA dance scene at the age of 12. She moved to LA to pursue her dream of being a professional dancer, and has since worked with artists including Madonna, Janet Jackson, Beyonce, and Paula Abdul. Brooke toured the world with Britney Spears for over eight years, including the “Dream Within A Dream” Tour, “The Onyx Hotel” Tour and “Circus” promo tour.

Later, she was a key member of the choreographic team on the mega-hit Fox TV series “Glee”, starting as Associate and rising to Choreographer over the show’s six seasons, during which the team created more than 750 musical numbers as well as the show’s two live-performance world tours, plus “The Glee Project” unscripted series and “Glee Live 3D The Movie”.

Brooke’s work has also been featured on many other major TV series including “Dr. Odyssey”, “9-1-1: Lone Star”, “Dancing with the Stars”, “Lucifer”, “National Treasure”, “Bones”, and “American Horror Story”. Most recently, she choreographed seasons 1 and 2 of the magnificent new Apple+ series “Palm Royale”.

As a choreographer, Brooke has worked with such iconic stars as Shirley MacLaine, Carol Burnett, Kate Hudson, Gwyneth Paltrow, Kristen Chenoweth and Ricky Martin, and has two Emmy nominations in Outstanding Choreography For Scripted Programming one for “Lucifer” and the other for season 1 of “Palm Royale”.

Connect on Social Media:

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

 Interview date: November 30th, 2025

Episode Summary:

In this Business of Dance interview, Shanie Blais—Montreal-born, LA-based dancer—shares how her career evolved from a small-town studio kid into a working professional with major credits including the Wicked film, the Wicked live performance special, and a stadium/world tour with Karol G. Shanie walks listeners through her early training, her decision to leave Montreal to pursue bigger opportunities, and how she tested both New York and LA in “three months at a time” visits before fully committing.

A major focus of the conversation is the O-1 visa journey: what “deal memos” actually are, how relationships and credibility build a strong case, and why being physically present in the market (classes, events, consistent visibility) matters. Shanie emphasizes that success today looks different than past generations—less open calls and more direct booking—meaning dancers must treat social media as their resume while still doing the real-world work of training and networking.

Throughout the Q&A, Shanie offers grounded advice on staying versatile, building confidence and social skills, and protecting mental health in an industry that runs in seasons of highs and lows. From navigating London as a newcomer on Wicked to learning how to balance training with rest, her biggest message is clear: show up, be kind, plant seeds without expectations, and trust timing—because when it’s meant for you, it will align.

Shownotes:

(0:00) – Welcome + Wicked introduction
(4:20) – Montreal roots & competition beginnings

(11:31) – Choosing LA over New York

(14:59) – O-1 visa strategy & deal memos
(22:22) – Signing with an agency in LA
(24:17) – First LA booking: Camila Cabello
(26:35) – Booking Wicked without audition
(30:00) – Direct booking era & social media resumes
(37:11) – Touring with Karol G: stadium life
(56:19) – Mental health, balance, and longevity

Biography:
A professional dancer, born in Montreal and based in Los Angeles for the past five years, I live my passion for dance by collaborating with some of the biggest names in the industry. I recently toured the world with the renowned Latin artist KarolG and worked on one of the greatest films,, Wicked. Throughout my international career, I have performed alongside artists such as Doechii, Bebe Rexha, Camila Cabello, Olivia Rodrigo, and Shania Twain.  For me, dance is a way to tell stories, connect, and inspire.

Connect on Social Media:

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

Episode Summary:

In this powerful and deeply insightful episode, Eddie Garcia takes listeners on a journey through his extraordinary dance career—from a tap-dancing kid earning scholarships at Dupre’s to becoming one of the youngest dancers ever selected by Michael Jackson. Eddie reflects on the discipline and versatility that shaped him early on, blending classical training with emerging street styles that positioned him perfectly for the explosion of music videos in the 1980s.

He shares behind-the-scenes stories from iconic projects including Smooth Criminal, the Bad and Dangerous World Tours, and his early work with Janet Jackson under Paula Abdul. Beyond the glamour, Eddie opens up about legal emancipation, learning professionalism at a young age, navigating rejection, and understanding the unspoken rules of auditions and touring life.Throughout the conversation, Eddie emphasizes the importance of humility, preparation, financial responsibility, and soul over tricks.

He offers invaluable wisdom on longevity, leadership, and why relationships—not just talent—sustain a career. The episode closes with Eddie’s passion for mentorship and giving back through teaching and Camp MIA, reminding dancers that true success comes from authenticity, gratitude, and staying connected to why you fell in love with dance in the first place.

Shownotes:

(0:00) – Welcome, introductions, and session overview

(9:30) – Early training: tap roots, Dupre’s scholarships

(13:10) – Style fusion: breaking, jazz, ballet foundations

(16:40) – First break: Janet Jackson via Paula Abdul

(19:45) – Emancipation and preparing for adult responsibilities

(21:15) – Michael Jackson audition and Smooth Criminal booking

(26:40) – Touring young: Bad & Dangerous World Tours

(31:00) – Lessons from Michael: timing, presence, musicality

(44:00) – Auditions, rejection, resilience, and professionalism

(1:49:00) – Teaching legacy, Camp MIA, giving back

Biography:

Eddie Garcia is an accomplished director, choreographer, dancer and multi-faceted entertainer with a solid reputation for choreography built upon decades of performing internationally alongside many of today’s most celebrated stars. At just 16 years old, Eddie’s incredible dancing style and technique delivered him to the world stage via many projects with Janet Jackson. He danced in some of her most iconic videos and performances of all time, including “Nasty”, “What Have You Done For Me Lately”, “When I Think of You” and the classic “Control” on the American Music Awards.

By the time Eddie turned 17, “The King of Pop” himself, Michael Jackson, hand picked Eddie to join him. This began with “Smooth Criminal” and continued with other well known videos like the “The Way You Make Me Feel” and “Speed Demon”. Eddie spent the next five years dancing with Jackson on the record-breaking and internationally acclaimed “Bad” and “Dangerous” tours.It was during those invaluable years of touring and working on countless sets where Eddie fine-tuned his innate ability to direct, produce and choreograph.

He has since lent his talent as a dancer and choreographer to many well known artists such as Jennifer Lopez, Paula Abdul, Mariah Carey and Ariana Grande. Eddie Garcia artistic fingerprint that has made him one of the most sought after names within the world of dance. He continues to enjoy engaging in new creative endeavors.

Interview Date: November 16th, 2025

Episode Summary:

In this insightful conversation, internationally acclaimed dancer, choreographer, scholar, and educator Anabella Lenzu shares the remarkable journey that shaped her 35-year career. Born in Argentina and classically trained in the prestigious Teatro Colón, Anabella traces her evolution from early flamenco lessons to mastering ballet, modern dance, and dance theater across Argentina, Italy, Chile, London, and New York. She opens up about immigrating with limited English, navigating cultural transitions, and building dance companies on multiple continents—including her current artistic home in Brooklyn.

Anabella explains how her life as a choreographer, educator, writer, and mother intertwines into one seamless identity, offering dancers powerful lessons on artistic responsibility, lineage, and self-discovery. She breaks down why understanding dance history is essential, how to develop presence and technique beyond “steps,” and the courage required to create your own opportunities—including producing her own solo shows and writing two major books that took over a decade to complete.

Listeners will walk away with deep insight into pedagogy, creative research, international work, the reality of running a school, and how to sustain a long-term career anchored in purpose—not trends. This episode is perfect for dancers, choreographers, educators, and anyone seeking to build an artistic life with depth, cultural awareness, and global perspective.

Shownotes:

(0:00) – Intro & welcome to Anabella Lenzu

(1:20) – Early life in Argentina & first training

(9:51) – Teatro Colón, ballet roots & modern shift

(13:30) – Global travel shaping artistic identity

(15:00) – Visa challenges & moving to New York

(16:40) – Running a studio, family legacy in Argentina

(23:16) – Scholarship, research, and importance of dance history

(28:32) – Creating solo shows & artistic self-production

(33:14) – Teaching at NYU & curriculum breakdown

(37:40) – Her new book: 11 years of research

Biography:

Anabella Lenzu, originally from Argentina, is a dancer, choreographer, scholar, and educator with 35 years of international experience across Argentina, Chile, Italy, and the USA. She is the founder and director of Anabella Lenzu/DanceDrama, a New York–based company known for thought-provoking, historically conscious dance-theater. Since 2006, she has created 15 works and presented over 400 performances worldwide. Her award-winning dance films have screened in more than 200 festivals. Recognized by NDEO and NYSDEA for her innovative pedagogy and leadership, Lenzu continues to shape the field of dance education. She is the author of Unveiling Motion and Emotion(2013) and Teaching Dance Through Meaningful Gestures (2025), exploring the body as a vehicle for expression and philosophy.

Connect on Social Media:

Website: www.AnabellaLenzu.com

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

Interview Date: November 9th, 2025

Episode Summary:

In this episode, Menina sits down with Rhonda Kaufman Malkin to unpack how a competition kid from Irvine turned a packed schedule of AP classes, UCLA coursework, the UCLA Dance Team, and three seasons as an LA Laker Girl into a long-term professional career. Rhonda shares how she balanced college with high-level pro work, why she switched from a dance major to sociology, and how booking five jobs in a row her senior year convinced her to go “all in” on dance after graduation.

She walks listeners through her journey to Radio City—getting cut from her first Rockette audition, training herself between Disney shows, then booking the tour just before 9/11 and spending 12 seasons with the Rockettes (nine in NYC), seven of those as a swing, memorizing 36 tracks.

Now the founder of Fusion Exercise, Rhonda has coached 75 dancers into the Rockettes and trains performers for Broadway, NFL/NBA teams, and precision work worldwide. She breaks down what makes precision dance different (counting, spacing grids, eye-high kicks, stamina), how the current three-day Rockette audition works, and why cross-training, professionalism, and genuine love of dance are non-negotiable.

Shownotes:

(8:52) Menina’s intro: Rhonda’s journey from UCLA to Rockettes.

(14:03) Early life: ballet beginnings, competition team roots.
(17:07) Balancing UCLA Dance Team and Laker Girls.
(21:55) First agent wins; persistence through audition setbacks.
(26:18) Rejection lessons: casting “type” and mindset shifts.
(32:07) LA highlights: commercials, Academy Awards with Robin Williams.
(37:44) Booking Rockettes post-9/11; touring and NYC seasons.

(47:12) Precision dance breakdown: spacing, counting, eye-high kicks.

(53:36) Fusion Exercise coaching and modern Rockette audition process

Biography:

Rhonda Kaufman Malkin is a 1996 honors graduate of Woodbridge High School in Irvine, CA. Rhonda was the first student from WHS to "crack Disney" and win the Outstanding Dancer Award for the Disneyland Creativity Challenge, a competition open to Orange County performing arts students. Her 13 years of dance training lead to a 17-year professional dance career in Los Angeles and New York City. While attending UCLA as a Sociology major, Rhonda performed as a Los Angeles Laker Girl for 3 years and received a championship ring for the 2000 inaugural season at Staples Center. 

After graduating UCLA in 2000, she attended seminary at Neve Yerushalayim and started her journey into Orthodox Jewish life. She continued dancing professionally, teaching dance, and choreography on the side while being a Radio City Music Hall Rockette for 12 years performing in multiple cities across America as well as Radio City Music Hall in the “Christmas Spectacular.” Rhonda was a Rockette Swing (memorizing all 36 Rockette dance tracks) for 7 of those years. 

Rhonda developed her famous FUSION EXERCISE fitness method and has trained celebrities including Ivanka Trump, Jared Kushner, Karlie Kloss and others. 

Rhonda’s choreography talents lead her to choreographing for numerous live stage and livestream productions in NYC for Jewish artists Bracha Jaffe and Devorah Schwartz. She was Head Choreographer for Camp Mayor for 8 years, recently taught at the prestigious FAME school—La Guardia High School of the Arts, and Manhattan High School in Manhattan as Head Choreographer and Physical Education Department instructor.

She recently choreographed for the Rockette Alumnae Association in “Talent is Timeless” performing off-Broadway at the United Palace Theater in NYC.

As a Professional Dance Coach, she is honored to mention that 75 of her students have become Radio City Rockettes and was recently featured on NY’s PIX11 News. This is Rhonda’s 32nd year as a dance educator. She is a wife and mom to 3 kids.

Connect on Social Media:

TikTok:

@fusion_exercise 

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/fusion_exercise/

Interview Date: October 26th, 2025

Episode Summary:

In this uplifting episode, UK-based choreographer, educator, and West End performer Ryan Jenkins shares his extraordinary journey from a late-starting dancer at 14 to performing in some of London’s most iconic productions. Known for his work on Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake, Wicked, Cabaret, Kismet, Phantom of the Opera, So You Think You Can Dance, and Dance Moms UK, Ryan reflects on how perseverance, professionalism, and positivity turned early setbacks into defining milestones.Ryan opens up about the rollercoaster moments that shaped his career—from working retail in London to suddenly joining the original West End cast of Wicked within days, learning the entire show in three days flat.

He also shares behind-the-scenes stories from the ballet world, musical theatre, and TV, offering practical insights into casting, mindset, and time management. As a teacher and mentor, Ryan now directs the Elite Associates Program with the Acosta Dance Foundation, founded by ballet star Carlos Acosta, where he helps the next generation of artists reach their full potential.Whether you’re a dancer chasing your first contract or a professional redefining your career path, this conversation is packed with motivation, humor, and heart.

Ryan’s message is clear: stay kind, stay ready, and never stop believing in your own timing—because the job meant for you won’t pass you by.

Shownotes:

(0:00) – Welcome & introduction to Ryan Jenkins and his West End legacy

(7:34) – Joining the original Wicked cast with Idina Menzel

(14:37) – Late start in dance at 14 and training at Bird College

(16:56) – Making West End debut in Swan Lake with Matthew Bourne

(19:22) – From “spritzing perfume” to Wicked in one week

(20:30) – Balancing Cabaret, Kismet & Wicked simultaneously

(22:21) – Competing on So You Think You Can Dance & Got to Dance

(25:17) – Transitioning to choreography and Dance Moms UK

(26:19) – Launching Acosta Dance Foundation’s Elite Associate Program

(28:44) – Biggest lessons: likability, professionalism, and mindset

Biography:

Ryan has worked with the biggest creatives in the world including; Matthew Bourne, Arlene Philips, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Joel Schumacher, Peter Darling and Ashley Wallen. He has also shared the stage with stars such as; Kerry Ellis, Idina Menzal, Adam Cooper, Miriam Margolyes, and Adam Garcia. 2025 Ryan worked for Simon Cowell as casting specialist for Britain’ s got talent.

The only teacher in the world to have taught the dancers from the hit US T.V show Dance Moms for Abby Lee Miller and as choreographer for UK TV version Dance Mums with Jennifer Ellison. Most notably known for appearing as a finalist in the top 20 in series 2, So You Think You Can Dance and Got to Dance, before this he had a flourishing career in  London’s West End but not before gaining his first job at 19 in Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake. Ryan was appointed as Dance Captain for Grease The Musical UK and European Tour, choreographed by Arlene Philips. Original London cast of Wicked, ENO (English National Opera)- Kismet ,  London Coliseum. Cabaret' musical Lyric theatre, by Javier de Fructos.

Featured dancer - Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Phantom of the Opera the movie, directed by Joel Schumacher and choreographed by Peter Darling.Most recently started a new dance programme with Acosta dance foundation founded by Ballet star Carlos Acosta called Elite Associates.

In 2025 he choreographed the music video 'The blossom and the mountain' which has been nominated all over the world in film festivals and won awards.

Connect on Social Media:

Website: https://www.ryanjenkins.co.uk

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

Interview Date: October 19th, 2025

Episode Summary:

In this empowering episode, Dana Wilson—dancer, choreographer, creative director, and podcast host—joins The Business of Dance Podcast to share an inside look at her two-decade career working alongside icons like Justin Timberlake, Marty Kudelka, Baz Luhrmann, and Chris Scott. From her early years at the Michelle Latimer Dance Academy to performing on three world tours and serving on the Choreographers Guild, Dana reflects on what it takes to sustain longevity in entertainment while staying grounded in self-awareness, mindset, and creative purpose.

She opens up about her first big break assisting Marty Kudelka and performing on Justin Timberlake’s FutureSex/LoveShow, her transition into choreography, acting, and voiceover work (Pinocchio, Elvis, In the Heights, La La Land), and the creation of her Words That Move Me podcast and coaching community. Dana also dives into how the dance industry has evolved—from agency systems to AI and the digital creator era—sharing invaluable advice on processing rejection, developing emotional resilience, and “turning the grave into a garden.”

With wisdom, humor, and refreshing honesty, Dana reminds dancers that success is nonlinear, mentorship is invaluable, and feeling your feelings is a superpower.

Shownotes:

(0:00) – Opening chat: motherhood, dogs, and pre-interview setup

(4:00) – Reviewing Dana’s career highlights and credits

(8:45) – Starting the session: Justin Timberlake music intro

(12:00) – Dana’s early dance training, family background, and move to LA

(17:00) – Booking her first tour with Justin Timberlake and working with Marty Kudelka

(22:00) – 20 years of collaboration with Justin: tours, SNL, and Super Bowl

(27:00) – Creating Words That Move Me podcast + turning rejection into education

(33:00) – The power of coaching, mindset, and mental health for artists

(42:00) – The Choreographers Guild, AI, and how the dance industry is evolving

(54:00) – Q&A: Finding mentors, dealing with rejection, and touring lessons

Biography:

"People who call Dana Wilson a “Joy Machine” are not wrong. Her work is a joy to behold and she is a joy to work with.Dana Wilson is a choreographer, performer, movement coach, educator, Apple Top 100 Performing Arts Podcast host, and activist who understands how to move real people.

Her work is undeniably bright, refined and classic, yet bizarre with a healthy dose of happy. She works at the highest level across mediums from TV/ Film and Commercials to Tours/ Music Videos, and even Stop Motion Animation/ Motion Capture. From Apple to Amazon, Justin Timberlake to Paula Abdul, Elvis to Pinocchio, her impact is singular and she carves paths for others to shine as well.

Connect on Social Media:

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

Website: thedanawilson.com

Interview Date: October 12th, 2025

Episode Summary:

In this inspiring episode, international choreographer, performer, and TV judge MELCHARLOT shares her powerful journey from Montreal to the global stage. Known for her work with Lizzo, Beyoncé, Cardi B, and her Broadway debut in Holler If You Hear Me, MEL opens up about the challenges, sacrifices, and growth that shaped her as both an artist and mother.She reveals her evolution from competitive dancer to world tour performer, her experiences assisting industry legends like Tanisha Scott, and the life-changing opportunities that led to her judging roles on Révolution and Danse avec les Stars.

MEL’s story blends passion with purpose as she discusses her commitment to mentorship, cultural representation, and balancing career with family.Listeners will take away invaluable insights on confidence, leadership, artistic identity, and creative process—from managing time and mental health to trusting your path even when it doesn’t go as planned. Whether you’re a student, professional, or aspiring choreographer, this episode is a masterclass in resilience, authenticity, and the business of dance.

Shownotes:(

0:00) – Welcome & intro to MELCHARLOT and her global career

(6:54) – From Montreal roots to working with Beyoncé & Lizzo

(13:21) – Landing Broadway’s Holler If You Hear Me

(22:45) – Becoming a judge on Révolution & Danse avec les Stars

(41:31) – Performing on the Lizzo World Tour & family support

(49:00) – Lessons on leadership, humility, and teamwork in dance

(53:40) – Rejection, perseverance, and full-circle So You Think You Can Dance moment

(58:30) – Balancing motherhood, marriage, and a dance career

(1:06:26) – Creative process: how MEL builds choreography from emotion

(1:53:12) – Closing inspiration: mentorship, gratitude & never stop being a student

Biography:

Mel Charlot is a respected choreographer, creative director, and celebrated television judge on Révolution (Canada’s #1 dance show) and Danse avec les Stars (Dancing with the Stars in France). Born and raised in Montreal, Canada in a Haitian household filled with music, she discovered her passion for movement at a young age—a passion that has carried her across stages and screens worldwide.Her career has spanned over two decades, evolving from competitive dancer to professional performer, Broadway artist, and now a sought-after choreographer and visionary in the entertainment industry between Canada, US and Europe. 

Charlot has worked with global icons such as Lizzo, Chris Brown, Beyoncé, P. Diddy, Kanye West, Faith Evans, Omarion, and many others. She has also been featured in major campaigns with Jordan/Nike, L’Oréal, and Makeup Forever, and has choreographed on hit television productions including So You Think You Can Dance, Lip Sync Battle,The Masked Singer and more…A World Choreography Award and UKMVA nominee, Mel Charlot continues to push creative boundaries while mentoring the next generation of dancers and choreographers.

She brings a unique blend of artistry, professionalism, and authenticity to every project—whether on stage, on screen, or in the studio.Beyond her career, Mel is a proud wife and mother whose resilience and passion inspire others to live and move with purpose, power, and grace.

Connect on Social Media:

Website :Www.melcharlot.com

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

Interview Date: October 5th, 2025

Episode Summary:

In this powerful and nostalgic episode, Emmy-nominated choreographer and MTV Award winner Tina Landon takes us behind the scenes of her legendary career shaping the choreography that defined an era of pop culture. From her early days as a Laker Girl under Paula Abdul to becoming the creative force behind Janet Jackson’s “If”, “The Velvet Rope Tour,” and Ricky Martin’s “Livin’ La Vida Loca,” Tina shares the artistry, discipline, and vision that made her one of the most sought-after choreographers in the world.

Tina opens up about her journey transitioning from dancer to choreographer, how she built trust with industry icons, and what it takes to bring stories to life through movement. She discusses the evolution of dance over the decades—from the golden age of music videos to the rise of social media—and how professionalism, consistency, and genuine artistry still remain the keys to success.

This episode is perfect for anyone striving to understand the bridge between commercial artistry and lasting impact — a true masterclass in dance history and creative leadership.

Shownotes:

(0:00) – Welcome & introduction to Tina Landon and her legendary career

(3:15) – Tina’s start as a dancer & transition from Laker Girl to choreographer

(7:40) – Founding her creative style: working with Janet Jackson & early MTV era

(12:25) – Behind “If” & “The Velvet Rope Tour” – storytelling through choreography

(22:10) – What makes a dancer stand out in auditions and rehearsals

(35:05) – How the dance industry evolved from 90s tours to today’s viral world

(50:12) – Professionalism, mindset, and respect in the rehearsal room

(1:02:30) – The importance of longevity & self-care for working dancers

(1:13:05) – Tina’s message: know your history, learn from the greats

(1:16:16) – Gala of the Stars — Tina’s legacy & inspiration for the next generation

Biography:

Tina Landon is a multi award winning and Emmy nominated creative director/choreographer. She is best known for her sensual yet strong movement that dominated the landscape of dance in music videos and live tours since the mid 90’s. Some of her most memorable and signature moves can be seen on artists like Janet Jackson, Michael Jackson, Rihanna, Jennifer Lopez, Christina Aguilera, Ricky Martin, Britney Spears and Shakira to name a few.

Tina’s love and passion for dance began as early as she can remember when her mother of Mexican-American heritage and lover of dance and music, made sure her children would fare better by mandating dance lessons in their household. Falling in love with dance and yearning for more, Tina left her home in Lancaster, California to pursue her dreams in Hollywood. Auditioning for various dance productions around town, she landed a gig as a Laker Girl. She was well on her way, yet what could be considered a “big break” would be just the beginning when she was booked as a principal dancer for Michael Jackson’s “Smooth Criminal” music video.

Tina’s hard work and commitment eventually landed her many dance roles in various music videos including her first spot as a touring dancer on Janet Jackson’s Rhythm Nation Tour. She eventually went on to choreograph Janet’s next two world tours “Janet” and “The Velvet Rope” which earned her an Emmy nomination for the HBO special. She has also directed and choreographed national and world tours for many other artists. Tina is a 9-time MTV Choreography Award nominee and a 2 time MTV Award recipient for Michael and Janet Jackson’s “Scream” and for Ricky Martin’s “Livin La Vida Loca’.

Her latest passion is giving back and helping young dancers navigate careers in the music industry by sharing and coaching them through her extensive experience and knowledge.

Connect on Social Media:

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