The Business of Dance

Latest Episodes:

102- Bre Traver: Senior Agent MSA NYC — How Dancers Get Signed, Get Seen, and Get Working in New York Nov 23, 2025

Show notes

Interview Date: July 6th, 2025

Episode Summary:

MSA New York’s Talent Director Bre Traver breaks down exactly how dancers get on an agent’s radar and build sustainable careers. From her path from dancer to agent, to what MSA looks for in reels, headshots, and Instagrams, Bre shares practical, no-fluff guidance on submissions, onboarding, and being an ideal client. She contrasts the NYC vs. LA markets (live stage, Broadway, tours, award shows), outlines big client don’ts, and explains how agents scout in class, at shows, and online. The lively Q&A hits trends, triple-threat training, youth work, self-tapes vs. in-person calls, and why persistence, professionalism, and clear goals separate dancers who book “the big jobs.”

Shownotes:

(0:00) – Welcome & intro to MSA and Bre’s NYC leadership

(11:28) – Bre’s journey: dancer to MSA Talent Director

(20:24) – Inside MSA NYC: Broadway, tours, TV, and more

(24:53) – How dancers get signed and scouted by agents

(28:14) – Social media tips: Instagram presence that books work

(32:23) – Onboarding goals: materials, availability, and communication

(35:56) – NYC vs LA markets: knowing where you belong

(39:10) – Professionalism tips: biggest audition and booking don'ts

(44:10) – How agents scout in class and online presence matters

(51:12) – Q&A takeaways: training, self-tapes, visas, and persistence

Biography:

Bre Traver joined McDonald Selznick Associates East Coast division in 2007. She worked through the ranks as an assistant to Jr. Agent, to Franchised Sr. Agent, to Director of the Talent Department to now Equity Partner in the company. Prior to agenting, Bre grew up as a dancer and received a BFA from University at Buffalo. Bre is still serving as a lead agent for MSA’s NY talent roster. Over the years she has had the pleasure of booking clients on national commercials (APPLE, Advil PM, Pepsi), feature films (Best of The Best, West Side Story, In The Heights, 13, Tick Tick Boom), television (SNL, Law & Order, Pose, Maisel, Étoile, GMA, The Tonight Show, Last Week Tonight), award shows (MTV VMAs, BET Awards, Super Bowl Halftime), national tours (Hamilton, Wicked, Moulin Rogue, MJ, Hell's Kitchen, Beetlejuice, Some Like It Hot, The Notebook, Mean Girls, Chicago), and live work (Corporate industrials, New York Fashion Week, The Met Gala). Bre is proud to work on behalf of such an established roster of talent and enjoys keeping her finger on the pulse of our ever-changing industry!

Connect on Social Media:

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

Website: www.msaagency.com

101- Tara-Jean Popowich — SYTYCD Canada Winner, DWTS India Top 6, Carly Rae Jepsen Choreographer Nov 23, 2025

Show notes

Interview Date: June 1st, 2025

Episode Summary:

Menina sits down with Tara-Jean Popowich—winner of So You Think You Can Dance Canada Season 2—for an inspiring look at resilience, self-belief, and adventure. From moving out at 15 to chase training, to struggling with $5/hour jobs in L.A., to the heartbreak of being cut from SYTYCD Season 1 and the comeback that won her the crown, Tara-Jean shares how grit, heart, and community shaped her career.She reflects on the whirlwind that followed—international tours, Bollywood, Dancing with the Stars India, and performing across 74 countries. We hear how she built longevity in an unpredictable industry, the challenges of visas and branding, and her passion project Human First, Dancer Second. Tara-Jean’s honesty about comparison, mindset, and mental health is a gift to young dancers navigating their own journeys.This episode is perfect for dancers chasing professional careers, teachers mentoring students with big dreams, and anyone curious about building a life in the arts that balances adventure, resilience, and authenticity

.Show Notes

(0:00) - Welcome & intro to Tara-Jean Popowich

(9:02) - Starting in small-town Alberta; cruise ships as “only dream”

(10:59) - Moving out at 15; juggling work, school, and dance (13:20) - First LA move; cleaning studios to train

(16:09) - Cut from SYTYCD Season 1; comeback mindset

(20:49) - Winning Season 2; confetti, cash prize, new doors

(23:42) - Life after SYTYCD; global whirlwind of jobs

(24:05) - India chapter: Bollywood, DWTS, love & challenges

(30:21) - Years abroad: London, Costa Rica, NY base

(32:02) - New focus: creative direction & Human First convention

(34:57) - Advice to younger self: believe earlier, avoid comparison

(36:01) - Q&A: mindset, favorite projects, navigating LA

(42:30) - The power of personal brand & social media

(45:00) - Visa realities: O-1s, green cards, legal path

(49:00) - Q&A: favorite country, advice for young dancers

(56:13) - Balancing passion vs. career; finding other outlets

(57:53) - Final advice: stop comparing, find joy, trust your path
Biography:

Tara-Jean Popowich is most known for winning "So you think you can dance"-Canada Season 2. Since the show she has been based out of NYC, LA, London, and India. During her time in NYC she was "Carly Rae Jepsen's" Choreographer and dancer seen on "Jimmy Fallon" and "Live with Kelly". Tara-Jean is also seen in Pharrells music video "Happy", "Turn it up" American tour, "Groove Street productions" , “Excel” guest faculty, choreographer for "So you think you can dance" Ukraine and special guest performer, choreographed and performed for Ballet Africa, IDS instructor in Madrid Spain, yearly performer with "SYTYCD" USA All-stars in China, Dove Cameron’s new video with Disney, is 1 of 6 featured dancers in a feature film based in Scotland, with choreographer Stacey Tookey. TJ was living in India and made top 6 as the celebrity on "Dancing with the stars"-season 7.

TJ was named one of the "hottest top 12 convention teachers" in the U.S. Tara-Jean is seen in Calvin klein's, "Dance in my calvin's" campaign. More recently on tour with VORTEX around South America and Europe. Check out Tara-Jean dancing for Shania Twain “swinging with my eyes closed” video. Also An official judge for “world of dance” in Poland. Tara-Jean is also an official ambassador for “MOVE IT” the biggest dance event in the UK. 28,000 dancers from around the world.

Where Tj will be teaching, performing, autograph sessions, and photo sessions.Tara-Jean directed and choreographed for the famous hand to hand acrobat’s “Charolette an Nicolas” from France’s got talent. Keep your eye out for her dancing in the hit TV series “What we do in the shadows” FX network.

Connect on Social Media:

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

Website - www.tara-jean.com

100 - Linda Ayentes Interviews Menina Fortunato: The Untold Stories from Competitive Dancer to A List Performer to Creator of The Business of Dance (100th Episode) Nov 16, 2025

Show notes

Interview Date: October 17, 2025

Episode Summary:

In this landmark 100th episode, the spotlight turns onto the visionary behind it all — Menina Fortunato, creator of The Business of Dance as a dance mentor and podcast host.

Interviewed by longtime friend and fellow performer Linda Ayentes, Menina reflects on her extraordinary career over the decades spanning live entertainment, television, touring, entrepreneurship, and motherhood.

Menina shares her beginnings growing up as a competitive dancer in Canada, her bold move to Los Angeles, and the early hustle of auditioning, securing her agent, and booking major projects. She opens up about performing with icons including Britney Spears, Beyoncé, Paula Abdul, Earth Wind & Fire, Rain, Carmen Electra, and working on massive productions like America's Got Talent, Star Trek: Enterprise, Alias, MAD TV, and more. From national commercials, world tours, TV/Film credits, Menina recounts the highs, heartbreaks, and the pivotal moments that shaped her artistic growth.

This episode also explores Menina’s evolution into producer and mentor—launching The Hollywood Summer Tour, and The Business of Dance online mentorship program helping hundreds of dancers book agents, cruise contracts, national tours, Netflix roles, Disney jobs, and commercial careers. She speaks candidly about balancing motherhood with juggling a career, burnout, rebuilding after 2020, and her mission to elevate and educate the next generation of dancers worldwide.

This episode is perfect for: dancers, choreographers, dance parents, young performers, creatives seeking longevity, and anyone craving inspiration from a woman who has reinvented herself at every stage of her career.

Shownotes:

(0:00) – Celebrating Episode 100 & introducing Menina Fortunato

(2:45) – How Menina and Linda first met

(6:10) – Menina’s early years growing up in dance

(12:40) – Moving to LA & landing her first agent

(18:55) – Booking major jobs: Beyoncé, Paula Abdul, Britney Spears

(27:30) – Performing on TV shows, tours, and award shows

(33:20) – Transitioning into producing and choreography

(47:50) – Launching The Hollywood Summer Tour & elevating young dancers

(1:02:35) – Creating The Business of Dance Mentorship

(1:25:10) – Menina’s advice on career longevity and reinvention

Menina Fortunato is the founder of Menina Entertainment and a powerhouse in the dance and entertainment industry with over 30 years of experience. She has performed on global stages and in major productions such as America’s Got Talent, Latin AMAs, Star Trek: Enterprise, and DC’s Legends of Tomorrow—sharing the stage with icons like Britney Spears, Beyoncé, Paula Abdul, Earth, Wind & Fire, and Maluma.Seamlessly transitioning from performer to producer, Menina has choreographed and produced for The X Factor, America’s Got Talent, and music videos filmed at Universal and Paramount Studios.

She has also served as a producer and voting panelist for the Universal Dance Awards and appeared as a guest judge on Dance Moms.As the visionary behind The Hollywood Summer Tour and The Business of Dance—the online mentorship program and podcast—Menina continues to empower and educate dancers worldwide as a dance mentor and podcast host.Her work has been featured in over 400 media outlets including Forbes, Success Magazine, FOX, Billboard, ABC, NBC, and top dance publications and podcasts.

Also a proud wife and mom of three, Menina is known for her resilience, versatility, and lifelong commitment to elevating the next generation of performers.

Connect on social media:

Website:

https://www.bizofdance.com/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/meninafortunato/

https://www.instagram.com/thebizofdance/

https://www.instagram.com/dancehst/

99 - Corynne Baron: Cirque du Soleil “Mystere”, SYTYCD Canada, Royal Caribbean Cruises Nov 09, 2025

Show notes

Interview Date: May 25th,2025

Episode Summary:

Corynne Barron shares how a late start in dance, a ringette goalie’s grit, and a chance UK scholarship reshaped her technique and career trajectory. She walks us through So You Think You Can Dance Canada, cruise ships, and ultimately headlining as the Black Widow in Cirque du Soleil’s Mystère. Corynne opens up about saying “no” until the right “yes,” rehabbing a hip surgery, balancing motherhood with teaching and choreographing elite gymnastics floor routines, and the mindset shifts that turn nerves into fuel. Along the way: practical audition tips, backstage culture, and why confidence—and kindness—are a dancer’s best business strategy.

Shownotes:

(0:50) - Introduction & career highlights: RWB, SYTYCD, Cirque

(3:06) - Late dance start at 12; goalie to dancer

(4:10) - Year at Royal Winnipeg Ballet; classical training focus

(7:00) - SYTYCD dream begins; early ambition sparks

(10:02) - UK scholarship retrains technique from basics

(10:18–11:06) - Secret SYTYCD audition on 18th birthday

(16:18–19:39) - Cirque path: Berlin detour to Mystère lead

(21:24–22:12) - Motherhood, teaching & choreographing gymnastics routines

(23:06–35:06) - Q&A: auditions, cruise ships, nerves as excitement

(36:09–47:27) - Final advice: confidence, kindness, and saying yes

Biography:

Corynne Barron – Choreographer, Performer, and Visionary Artist

Corynne Barron is a celebrated artist whose remarkable career spans dance, performance, and choreography on a global stage. Trained at prestigious institutions such as the Royal Winnipeg Ballet School and under Kate Simmons in Warrington, England, Corynne gained national acclaim as a Top 12 finalist on So You Think You Can Dance Canada.

Her performance credits include the lead soloist role of “Black Widow” in Cirque du Soleil’s Mystère in Las Vegas, where she performed for three years, redefined the character, and served as Dance Captain. At Friedrichstadt-Palast Berlin, Europe’s largest theatre, she excelled as Dance Captain, soloist, aerialist, and ensemble dancer amongst a cast of over 60 dancers, with the partnering pole number created on her by Brian Friedman. Corynne has captivated audiences on America’s Got Talent, Shaq’s Fun House during the Super Bowl, the Vegas Strong benefit at T-Mobile Arena representing Mystère, and pre-show performances for the Vegas Golden Knights.

In film, Corynne performed as a dancer in a project in Scotland directed by Stacey Tookey for Imagination Film. Her work with Royal Caribbean Entertainment Studios on Allure of the Seas and Liberty of the Seas showcased her versatility as an aerialist, aqua show performer, dancer, and singer. She also modeled for Mondor Danceline in Montreal, and her image can still be found on Mondor tights to this day.

Now a prominent choreographer and educator, Corynne creates national-level floor routines for gymnastics and serves as an instructor at dance studios. She is a respected adjudicator for competitions such as Candance Convention and 5678 Showtime and teaches at IDance Convention Canada. Her past contributions include assisting at Nuvo Convention and teaching at Cirque du Soleil auditions, reflecting her commitment to nurturing future talent.

With multiple offers from Cirque du Soleil culminating in her iconic Mystère role, Corynne’s career exemplifies her exceptional artistry. She continues to inspire through her innovative choreography and passion for the performing arts.

Connect on Social Media:

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

98 - Vanessa Fuller: HBO´S Second Chance, E-40, Bone Thugz-N-Harmony. Nov 09, 2025

Show notes

Interview Date: December 14th, 2024

Episode Summary:

Vanessa Fuller, a dancer, choreographer, and the artistic director of Xcape Dance Company. Vanessa shares her inspiring journey from growing up in Eugene, Oregon, to becoming a multifaceted professional in the dance industry. She discusses her extensive career, including working with artists like E-40 and Twista, and her recent appearance on HBO Max’s Second Chance Stage. The show, which provides a platform for individuals over 30 to chase their dreams despite past obstacles, features Vanessa as one of the few dancers.

Vanessa reflects on how she balanced family life, owning a dance studio, and maintaining her passion for dance, despite the challenges. She emphasizes the importance of perseverance, maintaining relationships in the industry, and building an authentic personal brand. She also shares business tips for aspiring dancers, highlighting the importance of being true to oneself and using authenticity as a key to long-term success. Vanessa encourages dancers to embrace discomfort and use challenges as opportunities for growth.

Show Notes:

(0:00) Introduction to Vanessa Fuller
(2:00) Vanessa's early dance journey and passion for movement
(5:30) Balancing family life with a dance career
(10:00) Running Escape Dance Company and owning a studio
(13:45) Vanessa’s appearance on HBO Max's Second Chance Stage
(18:00) The concept of Second Chance Stage for dancers over 30
(21:00) Transitioning from studio owner to pursuing larger opportunities
(25:00) The importance of perseverance and relationships in booking work
(30:00) Building an authentic personal brand
(35:00) Advice on standing out in auditions
(40:00) The role of community in the dance world
(45:00) Managing business and family while staying connected to dance
(50:00) Embracing discomfort for growth
(55:00) Tips for dancers on navigating the business side of dance
(60:00) Building a strong social media presence
(65:00) Advice for older dancers and overcoming comparisons
(70:00) The importance of persistence and passion
(75:00) Closing thoughts on staying true to your journey

Biography:

Vanessa Fuller is a dancer, choreographer, and artistic director originally from Eugene, OR. She is the artistic director of Xcape Dance Company, where she has produced 10 full-length shows. Her dance and choreography have graced the stages of Club Jeté—LA's premier dance experience—and concerts from New York to California with artists such as E-40, Twista, The Game, Bone Thugz-N-Harmony, Zion I, and E.T. She has also worked on industrial projects for NAPA Auto Parts, Build San Francisco, the Qwest Events Center in Seattle, and Rockstar Energy Drink. She was a winning contestant on CBS’s Let’s Make a Deal with Wayne Brady.

Vanessa and her dance company filmed a casting pilot for MTV’s Made, a regional commercial, print ads for the University of Oregon, and have been featured performers in various professional events. Vanessa's choreography has won numerous awards at competitions and conventions and has won the JIGTV Brian Friedman Video Choreography Critique Contest at www.jigtv.com! Most recently, Vanessa was a dancer in the Emmy-nominated production of DanceAbility on Art Beat for OPB and choreographer and dancer for the headlining performance at the World Track and Field Festival sponsored by ASICS.

Vanessa’s training background includes hip-hop, jazz funk, and contemporary. She has trained at EDGE PAC (Los Angeles), Millennium Dance Complex (North Hollywood), Dance Mission (San Francisco), Monsters of Hip Hop, and master workshops with some of the best in the industry.

Connect on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/vanessafullerdance

https://www.facebook.com/vanessafullerdance

Website

https://xcapedance.my.canva.site/vanessafullerdance

97- Jacquelyn Long: Houston Ballet Soloist Nov 02, 2025

Show notes

Interview Date: May 11th, 2025

Houston Ballet soloist Jacquelyn Long traces her path from living-room pliés with her mom (a former pro) to summer intensives, HBII, and the main company. She shares how relationships and coachability shaped her trajectory, why modern/contemporary versatility now matters as much as classical technique, and how social media helps—but shouldn’t replace—the messy, vital process. We dig into audition materials, the “right” photos, favorite roles (Sylvia! Cinderella!), life as a working ballerina (weekly schedule, contracts, AGMA, benefits), pointe-shoe realities, nerves and mindset, longevity habits, and her growing passion for choreography. Plus: where to see her onstage next and practical encouragement for dancers finding their own path.

Show Notes:

(0:41) - Intro & bio; welcome Jacquelyn Long

(2:20) - How she started; early training at home

(2:24) - Mom steps back; Janina trains until 11

(3:14) - Houston Ballet intensives begin at 14

(5:31) - “Go where you’re liked” scholarships lesson

(6:49) - Relationships, coachability, work ethic matter

(12:20) - Be versatile: modern/contemporary equals ballet

(14:03) - Social media’s role; process over perfection

(16:03) - Audition toolkit: video, resume, show both styles

(18:49) - Best photos: true headshot, first arabesque

(20:32) - Favorite roles; Sylvia, Cinderella, new premieres

(22:21) - Business mindset: many paths, trust timing

(25:38) - Next chapter: choreography alongside performing

(45:16) - Contracts, AGMA, pay cadence, key benefits

(54:55) - Pointe shoes: custom Bloch, company-paid

(57:46) - Final advice; where to see Houston Ballet

Biography:

Jacquelyn Long began her ballet training under the direction of her mother, Suzanne Lownsbury, and Janina Michalski at Ballet Virginia. In 2010, she joined Houston Ballet II (HBII). After two years in the second company, Jacquelyn joined Houston Ballet as a Corps de Ballet member in 2012. Ms. Long was promoted to Soloist in 2016.

Ms. Long has performed leading roles such as the title role in Stanton Welch's Sylvia; Hermia in John Neumeier’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream; Gamzatti in Stanton Welch’s La Bayadère; Myrtha in Stanton Welch’s Giselle; Sugar Plum Fairy and Clara in Stanton Welch’s The Nutcracker; Valencienne in Ronald Hynd’s The Merry Widow; Carabosse and Princess Florine in Ben Stevenson's The Sleeping Beauty; Snow Queen in Ben Stevenson's The Nutcracker; Miranda in Stanton Welch's Romeo and Juliet.

She has also danced featured roles in George Balanchine’s Serenade, Emeralds, Concerto Barocco, and Symphony in C; Jiří Kylián's Stepping Stones, Dreamtime, and Wings of Wax; Justin Peck's Year of the Rabbit and Under the Folding Sky; William Forsythe’s Artifact Suite and In the middle somewhat elevated; Jorma Elo's ONE/end/ONE; Jerome Robbin’s Fancy Free; Stanton Welch's Divergence, Paquita, Velocity, Maninyas, Tapestry, and Son of Chamber Symphony.

Ms. Long was also featured in the Dancer's Spotlight of the 2013 October/November issue of Pointe Magazine and in the 2013 February issue of Dance Spirit Magazine.

Connect on Social Media:

Website - https://www.houstonballet.org/

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

96- Josh Horner: DWTS Australia Judge, ‘Billy Elliot’ (Broadway) & Disney Creative Nov 02, 2025

Show notes

Interview Date: May 4th, 2025

Episode Summary:

Australian dancer–choreographer–TV judge Joshua Horner traces his wildly diverse path: asthma kid → Australian Ballet soloist → West End lead in Movin’ Out → Broadway’s Billy Elliot → Disney creative in Los Angeles → Dancing With The Stars judge → reality-TV creator → and finally, a show-stopping pivot into real estate where he sells homes with full theatrical flair. Along the way he unpacks visas, networking that pays off a decade later, audition tactics, standing out without gimmicks, why technique still wins, and how to future-proof a dance career with bravery, focus, and business sense. The Q&A dives into agents in Australia, cruise-ship hustles, concert vs. commercial dance choices, and breaking into Broadway

Shownotes:

(0:00) — Roll call, cameras on, global intros

(0:59) — Guest intro: multi-market career highlights

(3:21) — Asthma leads Josh into dance

(6:12) — Australian Ballet School, company contract

(6:37) — Dirty Dancing understudy; Twyla Tharp notice

(7:59) — London West End lead, green card plan

(8:59) — Broadway debut, Billy Elliot & Tony Awards

(18:05) — Disney dream: 10-year networking seed blooms

(23:32) — DWTS judge role; weekly LA–Australia commute

(26:03) — Reality TV pilot; shifting industry landscape

(28:14 )— Breakup with dance, pivot to real estate

(30:26)— Viral listings: showgirls, humor, entertainment

(34:48) — Q&A: agents, cruise ships, hustling tips

(45:20) — Career crossroads: commercial vs. contemporary dance

(59:14) — Final advice: technique, smarts, bravery

Biography:

Ladies and gentlemen, meet Josh Horner – the former dance floor dynamo, Disneyland's creative wizard, and the unforgettable judge on Dancing With The Stars! Now back in his hometown, Josh is lighting up real estate with The Horner Agency and his iconic gnome sidekick. Forget record-breaking sales—it's his viral videos that have buyers and vendors lining up, all because the JOY is real with this guy! With a knack for connecting and a flair for fun, every deal with Josh is a showstopper. Get ready to experience real estate like never before!

Connect on Social Media:

Website - ⁠thehorneragency.com

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

95- Julie Mcdonald: MSA Co-Founder, First Dance Agent & Industry Trailblazer Honored at Gala of the Stars Oct 26, 2025

Show notes

Interview Date: September 21st, 2025

Episode Summary:In this inspiring conversation, Menina Fortunato sits down with Julie McDonald, the trailblazing co-founder of MSA Agency and the first dance agent in history. Julie shares her incredible journey from professional dancer to industry visionary—representing some of the biggest names in choreography and performance.She reflects on the evolution of the commercial dance world, the importance of professionalism and preparation, and what truly sets apart dancers who build lasting careers. Julie offers invaluable advice on networking, auditions, and why knowing your dance history—from Bob Fosse to Jerome Robbins—is essential for any serious artist.From agency insight to mentorship, this episode is filled with stories, wisdom, and warmth from a woman who changed the industry for dancers everywhere. Julie also shares exciting news about being honored with the Trailblazer Award at Gala of the Stars—a full-circle moment for one of dance’s greatest advocates.This episode is perfect for dancers, teachers, and aspiring professionals who want to understand the business behind dance, the art of longevity, and the power of curiosity and gratitude in shaping a meaningful career.

Shownotes:

(0:00) – Welcome & intro to Julie McDonald and her legacy

(3:15) – Julie’s start as a dancer & transition into agency life

(7:40) – Founding MSA: creating the first dance agency in the world

(12:25) – Representing choreographers, dancers & industry icons

(22:10) – What makes a dancer stand out to an agent

(35:05) – How the dance industry evolved through the decades

(50:12) – Advice: professionalism, mindset, and consistency

(1:13:05) – Julie’s message: know your dance history & icons

(1:16:16) – Gala of the Stars — Julie honored with Trailblazer Award

(1:16:57) – Closing: gratitude, selfies, and inspiration for young dancers

Biography:

Julie McDonald is the visionary co-owner of McDonald Selznick Associates (MSA) and a trailblazer in dance and choreography representation. In 1985, she launched the first talent agency devoted exclusively to dance, setting a new standard for advocacy, professionalism, and artistic excellence in the industry.

From the outset, Julie championed fair terms and improved working conditions for dancers and choreographers, tirelessly promoting the visibility and integrity of commercial dance. In 2000, she joined forces with Tony Selznick to found MSA, which today represents a roster of award‑winning talent. Her clients have earned Emmy, Tony, MTV, and MTV Awards—while leading the creative teams behind Broadway hits, Las Vegas spectaculars, high‑profile films, television dramas, sitcoms, and major awards shows (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar).

A dedicated collaborator and industry visionary, Julie co‑created the American Choreography Awards (1994–2004), celebrating excellence in dance across media. Her pioneering work has been recognized with Lifetime Achievement Awards from both the Choreographers Carnival and McCallum’s Choreography Festival.

Through her ongoing projects and continued leadership at MSA, Julie McDonald remains a powerful force in shaping the future of dance, honoring its past, and empowering the artists who bring it to life.

Connect on Social Media:

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

94- Rachele Brooke Smith: Center Stage, Bring It On, Iron Man 2 — Gymnast, Dancer, Actress & Superhero Oct 26, 2025

Show notes

Interview Date: June 29th, 2025

Episode Summary:

Menina welcomes actor–dancer Rachele Brooke Smith for a candid ride from fearful gymnast to leading roles in Center Stage: Turn It Up, Bring It On, Iron Man 2, and a new superhero film. Rachele unpacks visualization, journaling, and “do the brave thing” as career fuel; navigating post-win lows; rehabbing injuries with PT, anti-inflammatory nutrition, rest, and affirmations; and how versatility (breakdance, pointe, martial arts, stunts) opened doors. They close on boundaries, kindness, and building a brand rooted in energy, gratitude, and courage.

Shownotes:

(2:09) — Guest intro: dancer, actor, speaker, 45+ credits

(4:28) — Gymnastics struggles, anxiety, and harsh coaching

(6:27) — Center Stage sparks life-changing visualization dream

(8:59) — Six auditions, three months, wins lead role

(10:55) — Post-success low; tools for mindset reset

(17:59) — Major injury setback; healing through PT and rest

(21:31) — Affirmations, nutrition, gratitude practices in recovery

(1:20:21) — Transition from stiff gymnast to fluid dancer

(1:24:48) — Martial arts, breakdance, stunts expand acting career

(1:26:09) — Superhero film role; theme: even heroes need help

Biography:

Award-Winning Actress & Film Producer | World-Renowned Dancer & Wellness Practitioner | Magnetic Inspirational Speaker
Rachele Brooke Smith, star of Center Stage: Turn It Up, Bring It On: Fight to the Finish, Atomic Shark, Popstar and 45+ other films and TV shows—and her upcoming superhero film Legend of the White Dragon, premiering later this year—seamlessly bridges the worlds of entertainment and holistic well-being.

An award-winning performer, sought-after speaker, and co-founder of Relationship Renegades, she merges decades of expertise in mind-body connection with cutting-edge biohacking practices to empower individuals to reclaim their vitality, magnetism, personal freedom, and creative expansion.

Her transformative workshop, Expression Therapy, combines dynamic movement, emotional release techniques, and neuroscience-backed tools to help attendees shatter self-limiting patterns, amplify confidence, and unlock their highest potential. Drawing from her journey as a Hollywood artist and wellness advocate, Rachele’s methods blend artistic authenticity with actionable strategies for mental clarity, emotional resilience, and peak performance.

A trailblazer in experiential healing, Rachele has been featured at global wellness summits and on platforms like E! News and Access Hollywood. Join her to discover the liberating power of authentic expression—and biohack your way to a bold, unapologetic life.

Connect on Social Media:

Website: www.RacheleBSmith.com

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

https://www.instagram.com/relationship.renegades/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rachelebrookesmith?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rachelebsmith

93 - Johanna Sapakie : Madonna, J.Lo, and and Cirque du Soleil's Michael Jackson ONE Oct 19, 2025

Show notes

Interview Date: April 13th, 2025

Episode Summary:

International choreographer, aerialist, and performer Johanna Sapakie (Cirque du Soleil, Super Bowl LIV with Jennifer Lopez, Hustlers, Dita Las Vegas) drops a masterclass in longevity and reinvention. From creating her own “scholarship program” after a studio closed, to bold networking that led to her first agent within months, Johanna shows how resourcefulness plus relentless training turn opportunities into credits. She breaks down the leap from dancer to aerialist/pole artist, how Hustlers led straight to the Super Bowl, and why the real separator isn’t trick difficulty—it’s entertainment value. We also cover working with A-list artists, targeted demo reels, practical grip/endurance tips, and her current creative leadership role revamping Ringling Brothers.

If you’re an aspiring pro, this episode is your blueprint for asking clearly, training smart, and staying in the game—decades in.

Shownotes:

(0:00) — Introductions & career pivots during pandemic
(11:46)— Builds DIY scholarship training program
(18:48) — First agent & early industry mentors
(23:44) — Discovering aerial work, first opportunities
(30:28) — Cirque du Soleil breakthrough moment
(32:33) — Pole artistry, JLo & Hustlers36:49 — Inside JLo’s work ethic & process
(42:46) — Training evolution: 20s, 30s, 40s
(45:23) — Creative directing Ringling & Dita Las Vegas
(50:47) — Entertainment value outlasts technical tricks

Biography:

Johanna Sapakie is an accomplished Artistic Director, Choreographer and Performer. Johanna has been involved in many projects on stage and on camera including the Super Bowl LIV Halftime Show, Hustlers and Medicine with JLo, Cirque Du Soleil's Michael Jackson ONE and Viva ELVIS, Dancing With the Stars, So You Think You Can Dance, The Tournament of Roses Parade, RuPaul’s Drag Race Live, Shiners Nashville, the Arabesque Festival at the Kennedy Center, Songs of Soul and Inspiration with Debbie Allen, the re- release of Michael Jackson’s “Blood on the Dance Floor”, Miley Cyrus: Live in Concert World Tour, 2 tours for Madonna and Splendor by Dragone.

Johanna is also an accomplished aerial acrobat and performs on many different apparatus including tissú, lyra, spans, hammock, acro & aerial pole, and aerial heart . She has just recently completed the creation of the new residency Dita Las Vegas: A Jubilant Revue as their acrobatic and associate choreographer. Johanna also proudly teaches master classes and workshops around the world in pole, aerial acrobatics and dance. She excels at artist development and act creation.

Connect on social media:

Instagram: Www.instagram.com/johannasapakiereal

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