The Business of Dance

• 60 - Chuck Maldonado: Missy Elliott, Pink, Usher, SYTYCD, Dancing With The Stars, X-Factor

  Episode Summary:Chuck Maldonado, a highly sought-after choreographer and creative director. Chuck shares his inspiring journey from a late start in dance at the age of 29 to becoming a key figure in the industry. He reflects on his early experiences with street dance and formal training, which eventually led to his involvement in the Centennial Olympic Games, where he worked with legendary choreographer Kenny Ortega. Chuck also discusses how key relationships, including a connection with Lisa Left Eye Lopez, helped propel his career forward, leading to major choreography opportunities for artists like Missy Elliott and Pink.Chuck delves into his transition from dancer to choreographer, citing his work on the film Stomp the Yard as a pivotal moment. He also talks about his latest venture, The Stu, a creative studio in Burbank, where he and his business partner Aliya Janelle offer a safe and supportive space for artists to rehearse, create, and grow. Chuck emphasizes the importance of relationships, mentorship, and trusting the process in building a successful career. Show Notes:(0:00) Introduction to Chuck Maldonado, Renowned Choreographer and Creative Director(3:30) Chuck's Early Start in Dance and Overcoming Challenges(8:45) Breaking into the Industry: Chuck’s Big Break at the Centennial Olympic Games(14:20) How Chuck's Relationship with Lisa Left Eye Lopez Led to His First Major Job(19:00) Transitioning to Los Angeles: Chuck’s Experiences with Missy Elliott, Pink, and More(23:15) Chuck’s Favorite Projects: Working with Missy Elliott and Pink(27:00) The Shift from Assistant to Lead Choreographer: The Making of Stomp the Yard(33:45) Launching The Stew: Chuck’s New Creative Studio in Burbank(38:30) The Vision for The Stew: A Safe Space for Artists and Dancers to Create and Connect(42:15) Chuck’s Advice for Aspiring Dancers: Building Confidence and Overcoming Self-Doubt(46:00) Mentee Q&A: Staying Inspired in Choreography, Building Industry Connections(52:00) The Importance of Relationships and Mentorship in Career Growth(56:00) Final Thoughts on Trusting the Process and Staying True to Your Purpose in DanceBiography:Chuck Maldonado is one of today’s most sought after Choreographers/Creative Directors in the industry. He has made such an impact in TV and films such as; Stomp The Yard 1 and 2, Step Up Revolution, House Party 5, Disney films G-Force, and Underdog. In addition, his talent and creative direction has also been used in shows such as; Dancing With The Stars, So You Think You Can Dance, X-Factor, and America’s Best Dance Crew. Additionally, Chuck has worked on numerous commercials that include; McDonalds, Wendy’s, Best Buy, AT&T, Hanes, Gap, and Target.He has also worked with several recording artists such as; Fergie, Chris Brown, Young Thug, P. Diddy, Ne-Yo, Usher, Pink, Khalid, and Missy Elliott. A four time award-winning Choreographer for his work on ‘Stomp the Yard,’ ‘The NAACP Image Awards’, ‘Chris Brown’s Grammy performance’, and Brighthouse’s Network Commercial. Chuck has also devoted much of his time furthering his education. A Graduate of the historical North Carolina A&T State University, Chuck received his Bachelor’s of science in Business Administration. Upon graduating college he received his first choreography job for the opening and closing ceremonies of the Centennial Olympic Games in Atlanta.His recent projects include Paramount animated film Max and the Midknights, Bounce TV ‘Mind Your Business, MTV Movie and TV Awards for Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, the Netflix original film ‘Word Party’, Toyota Commercials, Khalid ‘Roxy’ Tour, and “In The Time It Takes To Get There” Movie by Zach Braff. Whether Choreographing, Creative Directing, Producing and now being a Studio owner, Chuck is known worldwide as one of the best in the industry. Connect on Social Media:https://www.instagram.com/chuckmaldonadohttps://www.facebook.com/chuck.maldonado1911Websitehttps://thestulosangeles.com/

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• 59 - Industry Dance Awards | Red Carpet Arrivals at Avalon Hollywood with Menina Fortunato

  Episode Summary:Host Menina Fortunato takes listeners on the red carpet at the Industry Dance Awards. Featuring exclusive interviews with top dance industry professionals, award recipients, and performers, the episode highlights inspiring stories, career advice, and upcoming projects from some of the biggest names in dance. From honoring dance veterans to young rising stars, this episode is a must-listen for aspiring dancers and industry insiders.Show Notes: 00:00 - Introduction Host: Menina Fortunato 01:30 - Phil Wright (Co-Host)Hosting the event with humor and excitement while emphasizing perseverance in dance. 04:20 - Allison HolkerPresenting the Stephen Boss Legacy of Hope Scholarship and discussing her upcoming memoir. 07:15 - JoJo SiwaChoreographing for the IDA Icons and sharing her passion for young dancers. 09:30 - Krista MillerCelebrating her daughter’s achievements and advising parents on supporting their child’s dance journey. 11:45 - Autumn Miller (Breakout Artist Award Recipient)Grateful for recognition, currently touring, and emphasizing humility and hard work. 14:10 - Tia Stokes (Co-Host)Honoring young cancer fighters and promoting her upcoming documentary and benefit concert. 16:25 - Mollee GrayLong-time IDA supporters teasing new projects and encouraging young dancers to believe in themselves. 18:50 - Cast of "Dance Life"Attending IDA for the first time and sharing career aspirations. 22:00 - The Pittman SistersWinning the Social Star Award and discussing upcoming collaborations. 24:30 - Cost N Mayor (Viral Trendsetters Award)Launching a dance card game and advising dancers to leverage digital platforms. 27:15 - Brian Friedman (Educator of the Year Award)Reflecting on his mentorship journey and emphasizing education in dance. 30:50 - Sophia LuciaHosting an upcoming dance intensive and advising dancers to build strong legal and support networks. 33:10 - Noah Lands (Industry Dance Awards CEO)Raising funds for Dancers Against Cancer and producing a new documentary. 35:30 - Christopher Scott & LanceChoreographing major productions like "Wicked" and emphasizing dance community support. 38:00 - Blake McGrathAnnouncing fatherhood and mentoring young dancers. 40:30 - Marcea LaneLaunching new dancewear and working on a film about her life. 42:50 - Jennifer JonesPresenting the Future Visionary Award and discussing her upcoming memoir. 45:20 - Jocelyn BashamHighlighting Dancers Against Cancer’s impact and emphasizing kindness in the industry. 47:00 - Kenzie RobertsonExcited about networking and working on new projects in LA. 49:00 - Braylon BrownerPerforming a self-choreographed solo and striving to choreograph for film and TV. 51:30 - Marcia LanePresenting awards, launching new dancewear, and sharing business insights. 54:00 - Christina GradySupporting honored fighters and preparing for the Tremaine convention season. 56:00 - Jennifer JonesPresenting the Future Visionary Award and launching new books. 58:00 - Tessa & ChaseNominated for Teacher of the Year and choreographing for Shania Twain at the People’s Choice Country Awards.About the Industry Dance Awards:The Industry Dance Awards & Cancer Benefit Show is an annual event celebrating excellence in dance while raising funds for the Dancers Against Cancer Foundation to support dancers and their families affected by cancer.Connect with the Industry Dance Awards:Websitewww.industrydanceawards.comFacebook: facebook.com/industrydanceawardsInstagram: @industrydanceawards

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• 58 - MSA Agent: Megan Hunt: Turning Talent into Career Gold

  Episode Summary: Megan, a Senior Talent Agent at McDonald Selznick Associates (MSA), to explore the world of dance representation. Megan shares her unique journey from being a dancer to becoming an agent and provides invaluable insights into what makes a successful client in the dance industry. She discusses the qualities MSA looks for in dancers, such as professionalism, strong communication, and the ability to respond quickly to opportunities. Megan highlights the importance of keeping your casting materials up-to-date, including headshots, resumes, and performance clips, and provides advice on how dancers can stand out when submitting to agencies. She also touches on the expanding role of social media and personal branding, explaining that while it's not crucial to be an influencer, having a professional presence is key. In addition, Megan talks about the various trends in the dance industry, including the growing embrace of diversity and the rise of specialty skills like roller skating. She concludes by emphasizing the importance of being true to oneself and finding the right team to support individual goals in the dance world. Whether you're aspiring to sign with an agency or grow your career, this episode is packed with valuable tips. Show Notes: (0:00) Introduction to Megan, Senior Talent Agent at MSA (3:00) Megan's Journey from Dancer to Talent Agent (7:45) Overview of MSA and its Expansion into Different Departments (12:30) What Makes an Ideal Client for MSA (16:20) The Importance of Communication and Professionalism in Dance Careers (20:45) How Dancers Can Submit to MSA: Materials and Process (24:15) The Role of Social Media and Personal Branding in Dance Careers (28:50) Trends in the Dance Industry: Embracing Diversity and Specialty Skills (35:00) Building Long-Term Careers: Transitioning from Dancing to Choreography and Creative Roles (40:30) The Impact of Special Skills on Dance Careers (44:15) Q&A Session with Mentees: Submitting to Agencies, Getting Noticed by Choreographers (50:00) Final Thoughts on Developing Your Dance Career and Finding the Right Team Biography: Megan Hunt is a Senior Talent Agent at McDonald Selznick Associates (MSA), bringing a wealth of experience from her work in both Los Angeles and New York’s entertainment industries. With a background that includes a position as Junior Agent in MSA's Education Department, Megan has built a successful career by fostering relationships and connecting talent with opportunity. She also co-hosted The Hollywood Dance Podcast alongside Tony Selznick, a co-founder of MSA and a legendary figure in the Hollywood dance community. Known for her ability to navigate complex challenges with creative solutions, Megan excels in management, production, public speaking, and client relations. Her passion for understanding people’s goals and collaborating to create meaningful projects is central to her work. A graduate with honors from Portland State University, she continued her education at The School for Radio & TV Broadcast in Orange County, California. Connect on Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/megnhunt https://www.facebook.com/megan.hunt.58 Website https://msaagency.com/

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• 57 - Rachael Markarian: 2x Superbowl Halftime Shows, Katy Perry, Rihanna, Pink, Beyoncé

  Episode Summary: Rachel Markarian, a versatile entertainment professional with an illustrious career as a dancer, choreographer, actor, and educator. Rachel takes us through her inspiring journey from her early struggles with ballet to becoming a seasoned artist working with industry legends like Rihanna, Katy Perry, Beyoncé, and more.  Rachel discusses her pivotal moments, from moving to New York at 15 to pursuing her career in Los Angeles, and how she transitioned from dance to acting, embracing new opportunities despite injuries. She also talks about her role as an educator, her work with Energy Dance Project and CLI Conservatory, and the importance of teaching young dancers both technical skills and life lessons. She offers invaluable advice on handling rejection, growing confidence, building a personal brand, and balancing multiple career paths. This episode is packed with inspiration and practical insights for dancers looking to thrive in the entertainment world. Show Notes: (00:00) - Introduction to the podcast and guest, Rachel Markarian (04:30) - Rachel’s early struggles with ballet and how overcoming physical challenges shaped her career (10:30) - The influence of conventions and how Rachel discovered the larger dance world (16:00) - Moving to New York at 15 and gaining independence to pursue her dreams (20:00) - Transitioning to LA: Rachel’s journey into commercial dance and her first big break (25:00) - Behind the scenes of life on tour (35:00) - Transitioning from dance to acting: How Rachel pivoted after a back injury and during the pandemic (42:00) - Rachel’s work as an educator and mentor to the next generation of dancers (50:00) - The secret to longevity in the dance industry (57:00) - How to maintain confidence through auditions and setbacks (1:05:00) - Building confidence and growing your social media following (1:12:00) - Pursuing multiple career paths (1:20:00) - Q&A: Answering questions from aspiring dancers and sharing advice (1:30:00) - Final words: The importance of following your gut and focusing on your goals Biography: Rachael Markarian grew up outside of Boston, where she was immersed in a rich tapestry of arts and culture from an early age. New York City soon became a second home, especially after she attended a Performing Arts High School and trained at some of the city’s most prestigious institutions. Her passion for the arts blossomed, leading her to major in Theatre & Dance at Oklahoma City University. Afterward, she moved to Los Angeles, where she booked her first film role in The Haunted Mansion alongside Eddie Murphy.  Rachael has collaborated with esteemed directors such as Michael Satrazemis, Susanne Bier, Joseph Kosinski, Ryan Murphy, Avi Youabian, Steven Soderbergh, Amy Sherman-Palladino, Christopher Guest, and many more. Her impressive list of credits includes Top Gun: Maverick, Magnum PI, Captain America: Brave New World, Tales of the Walking Dead, Sweet Magnolias, The Morning Show, All American, Queens, Bandit, First Wives Club, Dollface, The First Lady, Legion, Glee, True Blood, and The Ms. Pat Show, as well as commercials for brands like AFLAC Insurance, Microsoft, Target, and H&M. Her love for theater led her to portray the lead role of Kari in The Pavilion, a Pulitzer Prize-nominated play by Craig Wright, at the Malibu Playhouse. As a performer, Rachael has danced and toured with top artists, including Rihanna, Katy Perry, Beyoncé, Pink, Justin Timberlake, Kelly Clarkson, Panic! At the Disco, Kanye West, Chayanne, Cher, and The Pussycat Dolls. She has performed in two Super Bowl Halftime Shows with both Katy Perry and Beyoncé and appeared as a guest performer on shows like Dancing with the Stars, The Masked Singer, American Idol, The Grammy Awards, MTV VMAs, American Music Awards, and The Billboard Awards. Connect on Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/rachaelmarkarian https://www.facebook.com/rachael.markarian Website https://www.rachaelmarkarian.net/

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• 56 - Aliya Janell: Going Viral with ½ Billion Views, Touring with Beyonce, Brand Deals, Recording Debut & Opening the Stu LA

  Episode Summary: Aliya Janell, a dancer, choreographer, and influencer who has made a major impact in the dance world. Known for her viral choreography videos, Aliya has worked with top artists like Beyoncé, Chris Brown, and Nicki Minaj. She takes us through her journey from a young hip hop dancer in L.A. to becoming an online sensation with millions of views on platforms like YouTube.  Aliya discusses her early days training at Millennium Dance Complex, her transition from dancer to choreographer, and how she overcame imposter syndrome. She also shares the importance of social media consistency, building a brand, and balancing creativity with business. Aliya talks about the highs and challenges of tour life, particularly with Beyoncé, and the importance of diversifying your career. From teaching to opening her own studio, Aliya Janell has truly expanded the definition of what it means to be a successful artist in the modern dance world. She offers valuable advice to aspiring dancers on how to navigate their careers, manage their personal lives, and embrace the journey with authenticity and confidence. Show Notes: (0:00) - Introduction to Aliya Janell: Dancer, Choreographer, and Dance Influencer (3:10) - Aliya’s Early Dance Journey: Starting at 5 Years Old (7:30) - Transitioning from Dance Hobby to Career: The Realization of Making Dance a Living (12:50) - Teaching & Choreography: Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Finding Her Voice (18:30) - Going Viral: Level Up with 40 Million Views (22:00) - The Role of Social Media: From Posting to Collaborating with Celebrities (26:10) - Evolving into a Business: Managing Brand Deals and Developing the Entrepreneurial Side (33:30) - The Importance of Consistency and Strategy in Social Media (36:20) - Aliya’s Beyoncé Audition Experience: From the DM to the Stage (42:00) - The Reality of Tour Life: Balancing Career and Personal Life on the Road (47:30) - The Stew Los Angeles: Opening a Studio and Building a Creative Space (52:40) - Music Artist: Aliya’s New Path in Music and the Importance of Monetizing Content (57:20) - Managing Multiple Business Ventures: Advice for Aspiring Dancers with Diverse Interests (1:03:00) - Aliya’s Advice to Aspiring Dancers: Embracing the Journey, Staying True to Yourself, and Being a Good Person (1:08:30) - Final Words: Trusting Your Own Journey and the Power of a Supportive Team (1:12:00) - Q&A with Business of Dance Mentees: Questions on Balancing Career and Personal Life, Building Confidence, and More Biography: Aliya Janell is an LA based choreographer, dancer, and content creator. Since the viral success of her dance masterclasses in 2017, Aliya earned herself over 2 million followers on her social media. Making high energy, sexy, athletic choreography her signature she created her own brand Queens N Lettos. Since then, she’s choreographed and danced alongside artists like Beyoncé (Renaissance Tour), Nicki Minaj (Queen Album), Jennifer Lopez (It’s My Party Tour), and many more.  Understanding the importance of social media Aliya continued to grow her platforms and has landed partnerships with Gatorade, Fitbit, Shoedazzle, Coca Cola, Viacom and many more. As demand for her QNL classes grew around the world she’s found a new purpose to show dancers to “create their own” and be in the forefront of their own careers as Aliya did. Just this year, Aliya made the biggest move yet and opened up her very own dance studio with partner and celebrity choreographer, Chuck Maldonado. Even with all the accomplishments the past 8 years, Aliya is nowhere near done. Connect on Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/thealiyajanell https://www.youtube.com/@AliyaJanell https://www.tiktok.com/@therealaliyajanell Website https://thestulosangeles.com/

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