The Business of Dance

Latest Episodes:

112- Dana Wilson: Justin Timberlake, La La Land, Choreographers Guild, "Words that Move Me" Podcast Host Dec 28, 2025

Show notes

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

111- Mel Charlot - Lizzo Tour, Beyoncé, Broadway’s “Holler If You Hear Me,” & Judge on Révolution Dec 28, 2025

Show notes

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/

110- Tina Landon: Janet Jackson, Michael Jackson, Ricky Martin, Rihanna, Paula Abdul, Laker Girls, 9x MTV Nominee, Emmy-Nominated Dec 21, 2025

Show notes

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/

109- Karl Flores: Grammy Performer Trainer, DOECHII, Kiana Lede, Redbull Dance, Oncloud. Dec 21, 2025

Show notes

Interview Date: September 28th, 2025

Episode Summary:

Strength & conditioning coach and dance athleticism specialist Karl Flores joins the Business of Dance for a science-meets-studio deep dive. Karl traces his path from competitive dancer to Equinox trainer to founder of Movement Society in Los Angeles, explaining how structured training, recovery, and style-specific programming extend dancers’ careers. He unpacks the “artist-athlete” mindset, common conditioning mistakes, injury-prevention fundamentals, and a practical training pyramid (aerobic base → strength → power). In Q&A, Karl tackles motivation, off-season vs. in-season “microdosing,” hypermobility strategies, rehab priorities, and genre needs—from ballet posture to breakers’ shoulder stability—closing with how dancers can work with him online.

Shownotes:

(0:00) – Welcome & intro to Coach Karl Flores and his expertise

(5:49) – Karl’s journey from collegiate dancer to strength coach

(9:05) – “Artist-Athlete” mindset: merging creativity and physicality

(11:55) – Common dancer mistake: not strength training consistently

(13:58) – Injury prevention through structured programs and recovery

(15:36) – Ballet vs. breaking: training by style and muscle focus

(17:30) – The three-tier pyramid: endurance, strength, power

(20:23) – Mindset, confidence, and aligning body with intention

(23:13) – Longevity: how training extends dance careers

(34:12) – Off-season vs. in-season “microdosing” workout strategy

Biography:

Karl Flores is a Los Angeles–based strength and conditioning coach with over 10 years of experience, specializing in bridging the gap between athletic performance and dance. With a background in competitive dance, kinesiology, and exercise science, Karl is passionate about helping others unlock their fullest potential and achieve the best version of themselves through movement.

Over the course of his career, Karl has worked with professional dancers, world tour performers, freestyle battle champions, and Grammy Award–winning music artists. His expertise spans injury prevention, musculoskeletal rehab, functional training, and optimizing both athletic and dance performance.

Training Specialties:

Injury Prevention

Musculoskeletal Rehab

Functional Training

Athletic & Dance Performance

Strength & Conditioning

Education & Certifications:

B.S. in Kinesiology & Exercise Science (Physiology Minor)

Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)

DBC Level 1

Functional Movement Screen Level 1

Kettlebell Athletics

Triggerpoint Therapy

ViPR

Precision Nutrition Level 1 (Pn1)

Progressive Bodyweight Training

Dynamic Sports Performance Certified Coach

Kettlebell Coach University L1

Functional Range Conditioning (FRCms)

Functional Range Assessment (FRA)

Karl’s mission is simple: to empower artist-athletes with the tools, science, and confidence to perform at their highest level, while building longevity in their craft.

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

108 - Carol Borjas Cantrall - Paul McCartney, Will Smith, Austin Powers , DWTS, Mother of Kylie Cantrall Dec 14, 2025

Show notes

Interview Date: September 14th, 2025

Episode Summary:In this inspiring conversation, Carol Borjas Cantrell shares her remarkable evolution from a Venezuelan rhythmic gymnast to touring the world as a professional dancer and raising the next generation of talent, including her daughter Kylie Cantrell (Disney’s Descendants: The Rise of Red).Carol walks listeners through her early ballet training, her scholarship to Tremaine in Los Angeles, and how she built a 30-year career dancing for icons such as Paul McCartney, Lou Bega, and Brian McKnight.

She opens up about adapting to the U.S. industry, navigating agencies and visas, and the lessons that have shaped both her and her daughter’s artistic paths.Throughout the episode, Carol offers practical insight on auditions, tour life, staying “camera-ready,” and balancing motherhood with a professional career. Her message to dancers is simple but powerful — prepare relentlessly, stay grounded, and do the brave thing, even when the path ahead feels uncertain.This episode is perfect for dancers, parents of young performers, and aspiring pros who want an inside look at what it takes to sustain longevity in the ever-changing dance world.

Shownotes:

(0:00) – Welcome & intro to Carol Borjas Cantrell’s journey

(3:44) – Tour credits with Paul McCartney, Brian McKnight & Lou Bega

(10:51) – Early training in Venezuela & rhythmic gymnastics foundation

(13:56) – Tremaine scholarship & moving to L.A. at 17

(16:50) – Audition evolution: from in-person to self-tapes

(21:37) – Visa journey & path to U.S. citizenship

(29:32) – Tour highlights & behind-the-scenes moments

(35:18) – Advice for Kylie on tour life & balance

(47:42) – Teaching resilience & confidence to young performers

(1:26:19) – Closing words: live your passion & stay camera-ready

Biography:

This Venezuelan born dancer/choreographer has over 20 years experience. She began with ballet and contemporary dance. Carol also trained in Rhythmic gymnastics for 12 years receiving numerous honors… including, five consecutive years, Venezuela’s “Best Gymnast”.

Once she moved to Los Angeles she began working in the industry with artists like, Paul McCartney, (World tour), Country icons Brookes and Dunn, Hip Hop legends: Will Smith, P Diddy, Snoop Dogg, LL Cool J. Brian Mc Night etc.  

She has appeared in movies like Austin Powers, Cinderella Story & more. She hosted an Entertainment Television show called “Hablemos De Cine” on Azteca America, interviewing both Spanish and American celebrities. She has done several national TV commercials including Dodge Durango with Will Ferrel, Gain Detergent, AT&T, Pepsi, Sprite and many more. In television she has danced on MTV Movie Awards, Guys Choice awards, Image Awards etc. She appeared on television series like Alias, American Idol to name a few. For the past seven years Carol is the choreographer of a Spanish TV network ( Estrella TV) Choreographing, and appearing and some of the shows including the Spanish version of Dancing with the Stars, and Los Premios de la Radio a la musical regional Mexicana.Carol also had a special appearance, on the ABC series,"America's Got Talent.”

Carol has appeared on several Warner Brothers productions for the famous series “Gilmore Girls” also Netflix shows “Fuller House”, “Jane the Virgin” and Show Time series “Penny Dreadful” and she recently also appeared on the new prequel “Dexter”.

Connect on Social Media:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caroljborjas?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

107- Juliet Prowse: The Legacy of Hollywood’s Golden-Era Icon, Can- Can, Frank Sinatra & Elvis Presley. Dec 14, 2025

Show notes

Interview Date: August 24th, 2025

Episode Summary:

In this captivating conversation, Juliet Prowse, author of Born to Dance, joins The Business of Dance Podcast to share the untold story of her legendary aunt, the late Juliet Prowse — a trailblazing British-South African dancer and actress who conquered Hollywood, Las Vegas, and Broadway.

From performing alongside Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley in Can-Can and G.I. Blues to headlining her own million-dollar Vegas residency, Big Juliet redefined what it meant to be a female entertainer in a male-dominated era. Little Juliet takes listeners behind the scenes of her research journey — discovering a red suitcase of letters, interviewing former collaborators, and piecing together the life of a woman who never waited for permission to shine.

The discussion unpacks the discipline, athleticism, and business savvy that made Juliet Prowse one of the highest-paid performers of the 1970s, plus stories of her engagements to Sinatra, her friendship with Elvis, and her unstoppable work ethic that kept her dancing until her final days.

This episode is perfect for dancers, musical-theatre artists, and history-minded creatives who want to learn from one of the greats — and be reminded that success is built on grit, artistry, and courage to create your own opportunities.

Shownotes:

(0:00) – Welcome & introduction to Juliet Prowse interview

(3:00) – Little Juliet shares the story behind her famous name

(13:18) – Discovering a red suitcase & inspiration to write Born to Dance

(16:00) – Big Juliet’s early Hollywood years & Vegas debut

(21:03) – Athleticism, costuming, and Bob Mackie’s extravagant designs

(25:39) – Breaking barriers: creating her own Las Vegas show

(31:22) – The million-dollar Desert Inn contract & Vegas legacy

(36:29) – Life, love & rumors — Sinatra, Elvis, and beyond

(41:23) – Performing through illness & leaving a lasting impact

(1:03:00) – Lessons for today’s dancers: hard work, creativity, & legacy

Biography:

Juliet Prowse never intended on becoming an author, but when she spotted a little red suitcase in her parents’ attic, filled to the brim with articles about her famous aunt, the dancer/entertainer Juliet Prowse, she felt she just had to tell this story.

As a seasoned communications professional, Juliet was used to writing, but to ensure the authenticity of her first book, Juliet waded through over 1 000 newspaper articles and letters, largely written by her dancing aunt to her mother (the author's grandmother), and spoke to over 20 people who had performed with Juliet.

Known as Big Juliet and Little Juliet in the Prowse household, Little Juliet inherited her aunt’s athleticism and became a South African runner, but she was never as graceful as her famous aunt who was born to dance.

Juliet has an MBA from the University of Cape Town and a science degree from the University of Nebraska. She lives in Cape Town where she is an avid theatregoer and sports lover.

Connect on Social Media:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61572702340283

Website: www.julietprowse.com

106- Aubrey Fisher: Viral Tiktok Dancer, Jason Derulo, Snoop Dogg & Kendrick Lamar Dec 07, 2025

Show notes

Interview Date: August 10th, 2025

Episode Summary:

In this powerful and uplifting episode, we sit down with Aubrey Fisher — dancer, recording artist, and creative powerhouse — who went from teaching himself choreography in his living room to sharing stages with Jason Derulo, Snoop Dogg, Kendrick Lamar, DaBaby, and Tyga.

Aubrey opens up about his unique path into the entertainment industry, revealing how he went from a college basketball player to one of the most recognizable names in commercial dance. Raised by a musical family, including his mother Angie Fisher, a Grammy-nominated vocalist, Aubrey shares how faith, discipline, and divine timing shaped his evolution as both a performer and a person.

He takes listeners behind the curtain of tour life — from the long rehearsals and creative highs to the loneliness and grind that come with chasing big dreams. Aubrey also discusses how he transitioned from dance into music, using his platform to inspire and connect through storytelling, vulnerability, and sound.

Throughout the episode, Aubrey drops gems on consistency, humility, networking, and staying grounded, while encouraging the next generation of dancers to embrace their individuality and to never give up, even when the path isn’t linear.

This episode is perfect for dancers, aspiring choreographers, and creatives who dream of turning passion into purpose — and proof that you don’t need a traditional background to make it to the top

Shownotes:

(0:00) – Welcome & intro to Aubrey Fisher’s journey

(9:30) – Growing up dancing & balancing basketball dreams

(11:56) – First dance class at Millennium Dance Complex

(15:01) – Creating videos & finding confidence through content

(18:37) – From 2017 videos to viral success

(20:43) – Influence of Grammy-nominated mom, Angie Fisher

(23:26) – Joining Jason Derulo’s tour & worldwide travel

(27:14) – Tour life highs, lows & mental balance

(35:04) – Industry lessons: business, ethics & awareness

(1:29:49) – Final advice: stay humble, authentic & resilient

Biography:

Aubrey is known for his phenomenal dance skills and captivating stage presence, but now he’s taking the music world by storm. A rising star creating his own lane with a sound of music, singer, songwriter and professional dancer. Aubrey is a recording artist from Pasadena, California. At a young age, Aubrey was very much surrounded by music and entertainment by his Mother "Angie Fisher". A Grammy nominated singer who performed background vocals for Michael Jackson, Kelly Clarkson, Jennifer Lopez, Missy Elliott, Keisha Cole, Jamie Foxx, Michael Bublé and many more. Aubrey played basketball in college for one year to later quit to pursue his career as a professional dancer at the age of 19.

Aubrey has made a remarkable fan base on social media and has accomplished many success in the dance industry and worked on jobs like Super Bowl, Samsung, Toyota Corolla commercial, Pacsun, Celsius, and many more. Aubrey has also worked with artists like Snoop Dogg, Kendrick Lamar, Dababy, Travis Scott, Jason Derulo and more.

After a few years of working in the industry Aubrey has decided to build his career in music and says he wants to be the next “superstar”. Aubrey believes that he can make a huge impact in music starting off as an independent artist. Aubrey is an r&b, pop and hip-hop powerhouse vocalist and loves to create music for people to feel alive, happy, soulful and energetic. Aubrey is very versatile and loves to explore different styles of music, not only for himself but for the listeners as well.

Connect on Social Media:

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

105 -Lindsey Blaufarb: The Voice, The Masked Singer, AGT, Pentatonix & Avril Lavigne Dec 07, 2025

Show notes

Interview Date: August 3rd, 2025

Episode Summary:

Choreographer/director Lindsey Blaufarb (half of LNC Collective) maps the leap from touring dancer to Emmy-nominated creative. A military kid who moved often, she found community through arts, earned an Urban Jam scholarship, then moved to L.A. at 17 to attend Hollywood High and the EDGE program—surviving on bar-mitzvah gigs and big dreams.

Lindsey unpacks early heartbreaks and lucky breaks: the Christina Milian switcheroo, saying no to Britney’s Circus tour to fully pivot, and landing Avril Lavigne’s record-breaking “Girlfriend” video after being invited into Avril’s band. She breaks down real creative direction—styling, staging, lighting, content, team-building—and shares lessons from The Voice, Blue’s Big City Adventure, and directing Pentatonix’s tours.For dancers, she gives today’s playbook: build a brand look, study an artist’s world, post smart on Instagram, DM thoughtfully, be a great hang, and let your originality—and energy—do the talking. Mindset, resilience, and resourcefulness thread through it all.

Shownotes:

(0:00) – Welcome, Guest Intro, Urban Jam throwback,

(9:48) – Late start, moving often, arts community

(12:32) – Urban Jam scholarship leads to L.A.

(13:55) – Hollywood High + EDGE, solo at 17

(21:12) – Christina Milian switch; “everything happens” lesson

(28:58) – Turned down Britney tour to pivot

(32:31) – Avril invites band; choreographs “Girlfriend”

(39:24) – Blue’s Big City Adventure: feature musical

(41:51) – Directing Pentatonix tours; Christmas prep

(49:40) – How to stand out now: brand, energy

Biography:

Lindsey Blaufarb is one half of L&C Collective and an Emmy-nominated and two-time World Choreography Award-winning choreographer and director. Her celebrated work spans film, commercials, music videos, television, and live performances, including The Masked Singer, The Voice, America’s Got Talent, and the musical feature film Blue’s Big City Adventure.

In music, she has collaborated with top artists such as Karol G, Lykke Li, Pentatonix, Tori Kelly, Jacob Collier, Kelly Rowland, Pink, Blake Shelton, Weezer, Missy Elliot, Ty Dolla $ign, Usher, Miley Cyrus, Nicki Minaj, Justin Bieber, Ricky Martin, Avril Lavigne, and others, crafting iconic moments like Cee-Lo Green’s Grammy-nominated F** You* music video.

Her commercial credits include major campaigns for Target, Apple, McDonald’s, Hyundai, Madden, and a variety of globally recognized brands.

Renowned for her originality and trendsetting artistry, Lindsey continues to push boundaries and elevate entertainment across every medium.

Connect on Social Media:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/im_lindseyb?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Website: https://www.clcollective.net/

104 - Dytto - Viral “Barbie Girl” (World of Dance), Assistant Choreographer for Shakira, & Ellen Alumi on Freestyle, Branding, and Building a Career Nov 30, 2025

Show notes

Interview Date: June 22nd, 2025

Episode Summary:

Dytto (aka Courtney Kelly) — the fembot icon of the dance community whose viral “Barbie Girl” freestyle on World of Dance launched a global following of ~10M across platforms. A professional mover, personality, and director, she’s appeared on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, starred in national campaigns (Android Wear, Target), and most recently served as Assistant Choreographer for Shakira.

In this conversation, Dytto traces her path from studio kid and cheerleader to self-driven freestyler, sharing how an alter ego helped her overcome stage fright and claim a unique lane in a male-dominated popping/animation space. She breaks down the business: why brand deals followed when she started talking (not just dancing), how she balances content “pillars,” and the realities of name usage, credits, and trademarking a stage name.

We also dive into monetization (and why dancing to copyrighted music pays everyone but the dancer), creating original music (Fembot Files), and her upcoming training app The Next Move—a practical system for turning freestyle fear into confidence. In the live Q&A she offers concrete drills, mindset resets, and career advice on evolving publicly, navigating street vs. commercial worlds, booking without auditions, and staying grounded in who you are—especially when everyone’s watching.

Shownotes:

(0:00) – Welcome & intro: “Barbie Girl” viral phenom joins the show

(2:13) – Early dance journey: from studio kid to freestyler

(4:27) – The making of “Barbie Girl” — purpose behind the moment

(6:20) – Creating “Dytto”: alter ego that conquered stage fright

(11:43) – Managing identity: real name vs. stage name

(15:50) – Viral momentum → brand deals, Ellen, and global recognition

(19:47) – $100K brand deal & secret to attracting sponsorships

(25:16) – New ventures: launching The Next Move freestyle app

(26:56) – Owning creativity: why she makes her own music (Fembot Files)

(1:18:16) – Final reflections: authenticity, vulnerability, and self-belief

Biography:

Dytto, the fembot icon of the dance community, is a professional mover, personality, and director. You may have seen her as a 17 yr old in her first viral freestyle on World of Dance called 'Barbie Girl' which launched her into a fruitful career. Since, she's been in numerous commercials, campaigns, and productions, some even of her own, being self-directed and produced for her infamous Youtube channel. Most recently, we watch her work come to life from her time assistant choreographing for the one and only, Shakira.

Connect on Social Media:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/iam_dytto/

Website - iamdytto.com

103- Eden Shabtai: Chris Brown, Jason Derulo, Ariana Grande, Demi Lovato, Chasing the Dream from Israel to USA Nov 30, 2025

Show notes

Interview Date: July 14th, 2025

Episode Summary:
Eden Shabtai shares how a kid from a tiny Israeli kibbutz—obsessed with MTV and training in ballet and modern—willed her way into New York’s scene and eventually L.A.’s major stages. She opens up about the unglamorous decade of artist development, underpaid gigs, and nonstop outreach that built the foundation for her “overnight” break assisting on Chris Brown’s Loyal, leading to major award shows and TV. A six-month backpacking trip through India reshaped her idea of success, while the O-1 visa process taught ruthless persistence. Eden also speaks candidly about receiving an aggressive breast-cancer diagnosis while five months pregnant, undergoing chemo with cold-cap treatments, and protecting her peace by avoiding toxic workrooms.

Creatively, Eden explains why she builds choreography live in the studio—feeding off dancers and music—and why energy, individuality, and attitude matter more than stacked résumés. Listeners will gain insight into using social media strategically, differences between NYC training and L.A. work volume, how to stand out in auditions (presence, styling, quick adjustments), and the mindset that sustains a career: humility, resilience, and community.

Shownotes:
(0:00) – Welcome and guest introduction
(8:20) – Early roots: ballet, modern, MTV influence
(13:53) – India trip reframes success and happiness
(15:24) – Visa grind: persistence, evidence, good lawyer
(18:53) – Moving to L.A.: training vs. booking realities
(21:08) – Breakthrough: assisting on “Loyal”
(26:44) – Favorite projects: BET 2014, Fleur East
(29:31) – Cancer while pregnant: resilience and boundaries
(42:05) – Creative process: energy-first choreography
(51:19) – What makes dancers stand out

Biography:
Originally from a kibbutz in northern Israel, Eden began training in ballet and modern at age 7. With no formal hip-hop classes available at the time, she learned by watching MTV. Determined to pursue dance professionally, she left home at 16 to study at a specialized dance school. After serving in the IDF, she spent six transformative months traveling India before moving to New York City to chase her dream.

In NYC, Eden trained at Broadway Dance Center and quickly became a sought-after teacher for over 150 young students while choreographing for up-and-coming artists. Realizing her long-term goals required a move west, she relocated to Los Angeles in 2010.

Since then, Eden has worked across NBC, ABC, BET, FOX, CBS, VH1, CW, and MTV. Her credits include the VMAs, Grammys, Billboard Awards, Dancing with the Stars, iHeart Radio Awards, BET Awards, Soul Train Awards, X Factor, The Ellen Show, James Corden, American Idol, Jimmy Kimmel, Jimmy Fallon, and more. She has choreographed campaigns for Hasbro, Office Max, Office Depot, HEB, and Clark’s.

Eden has worked with artists including Chris Brown, Ariana Grande, Demi Lovato, Pitbull, Ava Max, Jason Derulo, Enrique Iglesias, Jamie Foxx, Ne-Yo, Lil Wayne, Marc Anthony, Flo-Rida, Brandy, Omarion, Miguel, Pia Mia, Little Mix, Sevyn Streeter, No Doubt, Snoop Dogg, Kehlani, Janelle Monáe, Fleur East, Priyanka Chopra, Machine Gun Kelly, Tinashe, WizKid, Serayah, DJ Snake, Hardwell, YungBlud, Jack & Jack, and many more.

In 2017 Eden served as a Judge/Mentor on a new Israeli dance competition series, where she became the winning mentor. Today she works as a choreographer, artistic director, artist developer, and consultant—living by her belief that with hard work, mental strength, and determination, anything is possible.

Connect:
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/theedengarden/
Website – https://edenshabtai.com/

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected