The Business of Dance

• 74 - Shirlene Quigley: Touring with Lizzo, Beyoncé, Rihanna, Missy Elliott

  Interview date: October 9, 2022Episode 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 processBiography: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/shirlenequigleyhttps://www.facebook.com/shirlene.quigleyWebsitehttps://www.shirlenequigley.com/

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• 73 - Alisha Tallarico: (Pussycat Dolls, Jennifer Lopez, TLC)

  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 pathsBiography: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 WeekShe 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

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• 72 - Juliana Spicoluk: Boho Beautiful - Evolution from Dance to Global Wellness Influencer

  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 evolutionBiography: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.spicolukhttps://www.facebook.com/julianaspicoluk.bohobeautifulhttps://www.youtube.com/live/nsOiSMk611wWebsitewww.julianaspicoluk.com

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• 71 - Lauren Ritchie: The Dance Podcast Host

  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 careersBiography: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_ritchiehttps://www.facebook.com/share/1BQryvrffZ/Websitehttps://withlauren.ca/https://thedancepodcast.com/

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• 70 - Sherry Lin: Mastering Nutrition For Dancers

  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 strategiesBiography: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.rdWebsitehttps://www.sherrylinrd.com/

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