The Business of Dance

MENINA FORTUNATO
  • 5.0 (55)
  • PERFORMING ARTS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to the 'Business of Dance' with your host Menina Fortunato. Tune in as we dive into insightful interviews with industry experts, sharing personal journeys and career advice for aspiring pro dancers. This podcast is your key to turning your dance dreams into reality.

  1. 127- Mark Samuels: Descendants, So You Think You Can Dance Canada, Mariah Carey, Missy Elliott, Juno Awards, Mary J Blige and Do Dat Crew.

    3D AGO

    127- Mark Samuels: Descendants, So You Think You Can Dance Canada, Mariah Carey, Missy Elliott, Juno Awards, Mary J Blige and Do Dat Crew.

    Interview Date: March 22nd, 2026 Episode Summary: In this episode, Menina Fortunato sits down with choreographer and movement director Mark Samuels for a conversation about persistence, timing, and carving out your own path in the dance industry. Mark shares how he started out as a self-taught dancer in Toronto, learning choreography by recording music videos on VHS tapes and studying them frame by frame long before YouTube or social media existed. He opens up about his early years dancing with Luther Brown’s group Do Dat, how that experience launched his professional career, and the bold move that changed everything: cold-calling contacts connected to a music video he loved until one of those calls led him to New York for a Mariah Carey project. Mark also reflects on the importance of saying yes, staying versatile, building relationships, and continuing to train beyond your comfort zone. From assisting Paul Becker for years to choreographing recent major projects like the Juno Awards, Mark’s story is a reminder that longevity in this industry comes from talent, initiative, and consistency. Show Notes 0:01 — Mark’s dance career and major credits intro 2:45 — Learning dance from VHS and MuchMusic 10:33 — Joining Luther Brown’s Do Dat crew 13:15 — Early paid gigs and touring Canada 17:40 — Assisting Paul Becker for years in film 21:05 — Mariah Carey story begins with cold-calling 34:36 — “Say yes and figure it out” 45:22 — Biggest mistake: not training in more styles 57:56 — “Contacts equals contracts” career lesson 1:33:31 — Slow growth, patience, and next goals matter In the early days of his career, Mark danced for countless Canadian artists such as Shawn Desman, Jully Black, Maestro Fresh Wes and Nelly Furtado to name a few. He also danced in Canada’s most notable shows such as The Juno Awards, MMVA’s and So You Think You Can Dance Canada. After spending years as a dancer in Canada, Mark expanded to the US, wherehe was fortunate enough to work with some of the industry‘s biggest choreographers. His journey led him to dance for multi-platinum recording artists such as Mariah Carey, Mary J Blige, Missy Elliott, Kelis, Mario and many more. Today, Mark is a well-established figure in the dance industry. With over 30 years of experience, he has shifted his passion into choreography and movement direction. He‘s collaborated on a number of successful film and TV shows such as A Series Of Unfortunate Events, Disney’s - The Descendants and The Magicians. He recently choreographed The 2025 Juno Awards for Aqyila and Shawn Desman‘s latest music video, “Body.“ He is currently working on his “Back To Life“ nationwide tour. Connect on Social Media Website: https://www.marksamuelsofficial.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marksamuelsofficial

    1h 20m
  2. 126 - Jason Williams: So You Think You Can Dance, Lady Gaga, High School Musical, Beyoncé, Dancing with The Stars and NOIR Dance Company.

    MAR 29

    126 - Jason Williams: So You Think You Can Dance, Lady Gaga, High School Musical, Beyoncé, Dancing with The Stars and NOIR Dance Company.

    Interview Date: March 8th, 2026 In this inspiring episode, Jason Williams shares his journey from a curious three-year-old stepping into dance class to becoming a globally recognized performer, choreographer, and creative visionary. He reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped his career—from boldly inserting himself into opportunities like So You Think You Can Dance to working with icons such as Lady Gaga and Beyoncé. Jason emphasizes the power of initiative, reminding dancers that “visibility is your responsibility” and that success often comes from fearlessly putting yourself in the room. As the conversation unfolds, Jason opens up about his evolution beyond performing and into creative direction and entrepreneurship. Feeling unfulfilled despite professional success, he made the bold decision to pivot, ultimately creating his own work, including a sold-out production in New York. His story highlights a powerful truth: when opportunities don’t exist, you must create them. This shift into producing and directing allowed him to fully step into his identity as a visionary artist. The episode also dives into mindset, identity, and the balance between artistry and business. Jason introduces a memorable analogy of being a “dolphin among sharks,” encouraging dancers to embrace both their creativity and business acumen. Through Q&A with young dancers, he reinforces the importance of versatility, authenticity, and personal branding—leaving listeners with actionable advice and a renewed sense of empowerment in navigating the dance industry. Shownotes: 0:01 – Guest intro + career highlights overview 4:00 – Started dance at age three by chance 6:54 – Passion became serious in competitive training years 9:03 – Bold move led to SYTYCD opportunity 10:30 – “Visibility is your responsibility” mindset 13:32 – Importance of identity beyond just talent 14:13 – Post-show hustle and booking major jobs 19:18 – Working with Lady Gaga and career highlights 24:55 – Transition from performer to creator/producer 35:06 – Artist vs. business mindset (“dolphin vs shark”) Biography: Jason Williams is a movement architect, dancer, director, and visionary whose work pulses with spirit, sensuality, and soul. Rooted in culture and shaped by experiences, his artistry is spiritual, intentional, and joy-forward—crafted to move both body and soul. A finalist on So You Think You Can Dance (Season 2), Jason has built an international career across film, television, stage, and commercial work. His credits include High School Musical, FAME, Dirty Dancing, and Hairspray LIVE, with TV appearances on RuPaul’s Drag Race, POSE, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Dancing with the Stars, SNL, and more. He’s performed with icons like Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, Mary J. Blige, Alicia Keys and many more. He has graced stages at the Oscars, BET Awards, MTV Awards, Emmys, and Billboard Music Awards. Jason wrote, directed, choreographed, and produced The Jason Williams Experience: LIVE!—a sold-out production at NYC’s Alvin Ailey Theater. In 2024, he launched NOIR, a bold new dance company and platform celebrating excellence, identity, and community. Internationally known for his jazz-rooted technique, soulful musicality, and transformational teaching, Jason’s choreography awakens presence, honors lineage, and ignites joy. With a signature style blending foundation, feeling, and truth, his work isn’t just unforgettable—it’s undeniable. Connect on Social Media: Instagram: thejasonwilliamsexperience Website: https://www.thejasonwilliamsexperience.com/

    1h 18m
  3. 125- Jamie Hodgins: International Competitive Dance Registry, Camp Rock 2, Hairspray Tour, and Madonna.

    MAR 22

    125- Jamie Hodgins: International Competitive Dance Registry, Camp Rock 2, Hairspray Tour, and Madonna.

    Interview Date: March 8th, 2026 Episode Summary: In this episode of the Business of Dance Podcast, Menina Fortunato sits down with Jamie Hodgins, Executive Director of the International Competitive Dance Registry (ICDR). Jamie shares his journey from starting dance at 16 in Ottawa to building a multifaceted career as a performer, choreographer, producer, and casting professional. His career includes projects such as Camp Rock 2, touring productions like Hairspray, and collaborations with major artists and productions. Throughout the conversation, Jamie discusses the importance of perseverance, networking, and creating opportunities in the dance industry. He shares lessons from auditions, touring, and working behind the scenes, offering practical advice for dancers who want to expand their careers beyond performing. The episode also highlights Jamie’s current mission with ICDR, a new initiative designed to bring greater fairness, structure, and recognition to the competitive dance industry. By creating verified digital records of dancers’ achievements and participation, ICDR aims to give dancers a lasting portfolio of their work while helping move the industry toward greater transparency and credibility. Shownotes: 0:00 – Introduction and podcast setup with mentees 4:01 – Guest introduction: Jamie Hodgins career highlights 6:32 – Jamie starts dancing at 16 in Ottawa 8:00 – Reality show leads to Toronto career move 11:00 – Transition from performer to production roles 13:32 – Advice: say yes and build relationships 16:30 – Manifesting and booking Camp Rock 2 20:00 – Importance of networking and industry relationships 25:56 – Ariana Grande performance pay reality check 31:01 – Introduction to ICDR and dancer digital identity 35:15 – Vision for ICDR and industry structure 38:48 – Future features: dancer profiles and insurance 41:08 – Q&A: benefits of ICDR for dancers 46:23 – Favorite career moment performing in Hairspray 1:02:00 – Inspiration, individuality, and memorable audition story Biography:Jamie Hodgins is Executive Director of the International Competitive Dancer Registry (ICDR) with 25+ years in competitive dance as a performer, choreographer, adjudicator, competition director, casting agent, and producer.   His performance and production credits span major commercial and stage work — including CAMP ROCK 2, Hairspray Tour, collaborations with Madonna, Ariana Grande, Nick Jonas, Demi Lovato, and creative work for the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, National Ballet of Canada, Pepsi, and The Amazing Race Canada.   At ICDR Jamie is leading the push to modernize dance with a centralized, privacy‑first verification system that protects dancer media, confirms identities and eligibility, and creates portable verified records of achievement. Inspired by the standards and protections in youth sport, his mission is to unite studios and events around fairness, transparency, and safer opportunities for dancers.   Jamie blends artistic credibility with systems‑level change — a committed innovator focused on safeguarding dancers and strengthening the future of the industry. Connect on Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/jamie_hodgins/ https://www.instagram.com/icdr.dance/ Website:www.icdrdance.com

    1 hr
  4. 124: Ayesha Orange - FAME, Earth Wind and Fire, Austin Powers, Rihanna's Associate Choreographer, Usher and Mariah Carey.

    MAR 15

    124: Ayesha Orange - FAME, Earth Wind and Fire, Austin Powers, Rihanna's Associate Choreographer, Usher and Mariah Carey.

    Interview Date: March 1st, 2026 Episode Summary: Ayesha Orange joins the Business of Dance to share her incredible journey from a late-starting dancer to one of the most versatile performers in the commercial dance world. Starting as a cheerleader in California, Ayesha discovered dance at 17 and trained under legendary choreographer Marguerite Derricks at Tremaine Studios. Despite feeling behind technically, she pushed through self-doubt and quickly found herself working professionally, landing early credits including the film Austin Powers and touring internationally in the musical Fame. Her career exploded as she toured the world with Earth, Wind & Fire and performed alongside major artists including Mariah Carey, Usher, Pink, and Jennifer Hudson. Ayesha shares behind-the-scenes stories from award shows, music videos, and television appearances, revealing the realities of working with artists and choreographers at the highest level of the industry. Now working frequently as an associate choreographer and movement director, Ayesha discusses the transition from performer to creative collaborator. She opens up about confidence struggles, the importance of intuition, the realities of career highs and lows, and the power of simply showing up. Her advice for the next generation of dancers highlights resilience, relationships, and the mindset needed to build a sustainable career in the dance industry. Show notes: 0:00 – Welcome and introduction to Ayesha Orange 4:05 – Ayesha’s career highlights and early credits 7:14 – Touring with Earth, Wind & Fire memories 9:20 – Starting dance at 17 through cheerleading 11:35 – Training under Marguerite Derricks at Tremaine 15:52 – Deciding dance would become her career 19:03 – Alex Magno and key early mentorships 21:54 – First major job touring Fame in Germany 22:54 – Joining Earth, Wind & Fire world tour 28:20 – Favorite choreographers and creative process 32:55 – Working with Pink and artist professionalism 39:10 – Confidence struggles early in career 50:31 – Memorable AMA performance story 1:11:38 – Navigating career highs and dry spells 1:39:10 – Business advice: relationships and intuition Biography: AYESHA ORANGE is a prolific Dancer, Choreographer, and Movement Director with a career spanning nearly 30 years across the commercial and theatrical landscapes. Known as a versatile "chameleon" of movement, Ayesha’s reputation is built on her ability to execute any style and help bring any creative vision to life, regardless of the scale or medium. Her journey began at 17 under the mentorship of Marguerite Derricks, training at the iconic Tremaine’s studio in North Hollywood. By 19, she had already secured her first film (Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery), her first stage appearance at the Academy Awards, and her first professional residency. Her early career saw her touring Germany in Fame: The Musical and spending three years on a world tour with the legendary Earth, Wind & Fire. As a performer, Ayesha has graced stages from Madison Square Garden to Caesars Palace, appearing with icons including Mariah Carey, Usher, Pink, and Jennifer Hudson. Her extensive credits include over 20 films, 40 music videos, and 60 television shows, including the Oscars, AMAs, and VMAs. Transitioning into leadership, she has served as an Associate Choreographer for global stars like Rihanna, The Weeknd, Sia, and Selena Gomez. From 2023 to 2025 Ayesha served as the Rehearsal Director for the Los Angeles Contemporary Dance Company (LACDC), where she bridges the gap between creative vision and technical execution. From world tours to burlesque, and from performing on-camera to guiding artists through their own movement language, Ayesha remains a foundational force in the dance community. Connect on Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/aorange/

    1h 26m
  5. 123- Maycee Steele: Tate Mcrae, Maluma, Demi Lavato, Doja Cat, Viral Cuff It Challenge.

    MAR 8

    123- Maycee Steele: Tate Mcrae, Maluma, Demi Lavato, Doja Cat, Viral Cuff It Challenge.

    Interview Date: February 22nd, 2026 Episode Summary:​​ In this interview, Maycee Steele shares how she went from being a Kansas City convention kid to building a sustained LA career—booking major moments like Taylor Swift (Billboard Music Awards), Doja Cat (Coachella), and working with J.Lo, before becoming widely recognized through Tate McRae’s tour. She breaks down what tour life actually looks like (buses, no hotels, arena call times), how relationships and reputation lead to direct bookings, and why branding (including her red hair era) can help you stand out—but only if the training and consistency back it up. She also gives practical advice on moving to LA, networking, staying versatile, protecting your mental health on long jobs, and building multiple income streams through brand deals and social media representation (CAA)—plus the reality check that even at a high level, you may still have to audition (like she did for Demi Lovato). Show notes: 0:00 — Official intro + major tour credits8:02 — Convention circuit wins: Velocity + Radix12:13 — Moving to LA with two-year deadline13:01 — Assisting Kyle Hanagami; early LA grind13:36 — First big break: Taylor Swift BBMAs14:26 — Doja Cat Coachella career momentum15:24 — Career peak pre-COVID slowdown16:10 — Red hair branding strategy explained18:16 — J.Lo era; reverting to brunette20:18 — Booking Tate McRae tour process23:38 — Tour chemistry + family dynamic31:42 — Tour bus life + arena schedules39:10 — Brand deals vs. tour income breakdown Biography: Maycee Steele is a Los Angeles based professional dancer from Kansas City known for her powerful stage presence and strong on camera performance quality. She has performed on The Oscars, The Grammys, the Billboard Music Awards, and the Latin American Music Awards. Maycee has completed three major international arena tours, including the Think Later World Tour and the Miss Possessive Tour with Tate McRae, and a world tour with Maluma. She also recently booked the Demi Lovato Tour, further solidifying her status as a top tier commercial touring dancer. Her music video credits include She’s All I Wanna Be and It’s Ok I’m Ok by Tate McRae, and No Broke Boys by Tinashe. Throughout her career, she has performed alongside global artists including Jennifer Lopez, Doja Cat, Taylor Swift, Maluma, and Dove Cameron. Maycee is also recognized for co creating the viral #CuffItChallenge, and she continues to expand her career across touring, television, film, and digital media. https://www.instagram.com/mayceesteele/

    58 min
  6. 122- Curt Hansen: Wicked on Broadway, Nickelodeon’s Big Time Rush, Kinky Boots, 567 Sing Vocal Coach.

    MAR 1

    122- Curt Hansen: Wicked on Broadway, Nickelodeon’s Big Time Rush, Kinky Boots, 567 Sing Vocal Coach.

    Interview Date: February 1st, 2026 Episode Summary: Broadway veteran Curt Hansen shares his journey from a quiet kid in small-town Wisconsin to starring on Broadway in Hairspray and spending eight years in Wicked as Fiyero. Along the way, he opens up about booking early, being recast from Nickelodeon’s Big Time Rush, working alongside Ariana Grande before her pop superstardom, and learning how to handle the mental side of auditioning. Now the founder of 567 Sing, Curt helps dancers become confident, audition-ready triple threats. In this episode, he breaks down practical strategies for choosing audition songs, building vocal strength, managing nerves, and balancing singing with intense dance schedules. It’s an honest, motivating conversation about preparation, resilience, and why singing “isn’t that deep”—if you do the work. Shownotes: 0:00 – Welcome + how Curt and Menina connected through Instagram 9:15 – Small-town beginnings: choir sparks his performing path 11:29 – Open call breakthrough → booking Hairspray on Broadway 16:07 – Big Time Rush: cast, recast, and resilience 20:06 – Ariana Grande story + booking Wicked as Fiyero 22:23 – Eight years with Wicked: tours, Broadway, meeting his wife 27:18 – Why dancers must learn to sing (and how to start) 37:24 – Choosing an audition song + preparation strategy 1:00:00 – Balancing intense dance training with vocal goals 1:09:17 – Final advice: treat auditions like performances, not pressure Biography: Curt Hansen is a Broadway performer with a 15-year professional career across theatre, television, and music. He’s appeared in Broadway shows including Hairspray as Link Larkin, Kinky Boots as Charlie Price, and Next to Normal opposite Tony Award winner Alice Ripley, and was also part of Nickelodeon’s Big Time Rush. His biggest claim to fame, however, was starring as the Winkie Prince, Fiyero Tigelaar, in Wicked on Broadway. After building his career as a true triple threat, Curt now helps dancers develop confident, reliable singing voices through his training platform, 567Sing — teaching singing the way dancers learn best: through structure, repetition, and performance-ready skills. Connect on Social: https://www.instagram.com/curt_hansen/

    58 min
  7. 121 - Tony G: Bring it On Franchise, Olivia Rodrigo, Brittany Spears, Kids Bop, The Masked Singer and The Birdcage.

    FEB 23

    121 - Tony G: Bring it On Franchise, Olivia Rodrigo, Brittany Spears, Kids Bop, The Masked Singer and The Birdcage.

    Interview Date: February 8th, 2026 Episode Summary: In this powerful and entertaining episode of The Business of Dance, Menina Fortunato sits down with legendary casting director, choreographer, and creative producer Tony Gonzalez (Tony G). With credits spanning the Bring It On franchise, Olivia Rodrigo’s “Good 4 U,” Britney Spears’ Femme Fatale Tour, Wayne’s World, The Birdcage, The Masked Singer, and Kids Bop, Tony shares the real story behind his decades-long career in Hollywood. From being told he was “too short” and “not the look,” to building an empire rooted in hustle and business savvy, Tony proves longevity comes from mindset—not just movement. Tony dives deep into the difference between being talented and being bookable, why dancers must understand they are a business first, and how listening (ears before movement) is the true audition superpower. He unpacks pivotal career moments—including being fired from the first Bring It On film only to choreograph the next six installments—and how advocating for dancers’ pay shaped his reputation. From TikTok virality (“Unk” with 315K+ followers) to creative directing large-scale productions, Tony reminds dancers that opportunity is everywhere—not just in LA or New York. This episode is perfect for dancers who want longevity, leadership, and a competitive edge in auditions, choreography, and beyond. Shownotes: (0:00) –  Intro to Tony G (11:50) – Early roots: Soul Train to modern dance (14:11) – Meeting Paula Abdul & industry breakthrough (19:56) – Rejection from agents & pivot to choreography (24:27) – Wayne’s World & Birdcage career milestones (28:32) – Fired from Bring It On, built the franchise (31:29) – Audition advice: ears first, then movement (36:53) – Creative director vs. choreographer explained (43:53) – TikTok fame: “Rooftop Tony” & 315K followers (1:09:16) – Final message: you are the business Biography: With four decades of genre-shaping experience in entertainment, Tony Gonzalez—better known as Tony G—is a creative force in Hollywood. A casting director, acclaimed choreographer, creative director, and producer, his work spans dance, film, television, and music videos. Tony G has shaped movement and storytelling across more than 360 broadcast television commercials, iconic episodic and sitcom series including The Office, Community, Up All Night, and 3rd Rock from the Sun, as well as feature films such as Universal Pictures’ Bring It On franchise. Known for capturing the essence of movement on screen, Tony G thrives in the moment—crafting, adjusting, and elevating choreography instantly on set. His passion for teaching while creating fuels collaboration and opportunity, resulting in bold staging, electric flow, and unforgettable visual storytelling. Whether on a film, television, commercial, or music video set, Tony G delivers precision, adaptability, and undeniable vibe. Connect on Social Media: Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/tonygcast/ Tik Tok - https://www.tiktok.com/@gfresh

    59 min
  8. 120- Jada Specht: Jason Darulo, Teyana Taylor, Nelly, Busta Rhymes, Disneyland and HST Alumni.

    FEB 15

    120- Jada Specht: Jason Darulo, Teyana Taylor, Nelly, Busta Rhymes, Disneyland and HST Alumni.

    Interview Date: January 11th, 2026 Episode Summary: In this special two-part episode of The Business of Dance, Menina Fortunato sits down with rising professional dancer Jada Specht for an honest, real-time look at what it truly takes to build a career in today’s commercial dance industry. Joining the conversation directly from rehearsals and then again from home, Jada shares her journey from small-town beginnings to touring internationally with Jason Derulo, highlighting the discipline, adaptability, and mindset required to stay booked—and stay sane—on the road. Across the Q&A, Jada offers practical insight into transitioning from the competition world into professional work, emphasizing diversified training, research, and preparation. She breaks down what actually makes a dancer valuable to major artist teams—beyond technique—including professionalism, kindness, reliability, and being someone others want to spend long days with on tour. The conversation also dives into audition strategy, how she got signed by an agent, the realities of re-auditioning while already on tour, and why showing up—even when not “picked”—can change everything. The episode wraps with candid advice on finances, side hustles, self-care, recovery, and longevity. From warm-ups and flexibility to mindset, consistency, and treating your dance career like a full-time job, Jada’s story is both motivating and grounding. This episode is especially valuable for dancers preparing to move to LA, navigating auditions, or learning how to sustain momentum when bookings feel uncertain. Shownotes: (0:00) – Welcome + guest introduction (4:52) – Behind rehearsals: re-auditioning while on tour (7:30) – Transitioning from competition to professional dancer (10:22) – Researching choreographers, artists, and decision-makers (15:16) – What she’d change: training earlier, broader styles (17:35) – What makes dancers valuable on major tours (21:40) – Moving to LA: fear, readiness, and mindset shift (29:58) – LA checklist: agent, headshots, demo reel, profiles (36:34) – Side hustles, finances, and surviving between bookings (45:43) – Recovery, self-care, and protecting your body Biography: Dancing for over 17 years and recently moving to LA to pursue her dreams, Jada Specht has assisted and trained under many industry choreographers that has led her to where she is today. She is currently on tour with Jason Derulo and has worked with artists such as Teyana Taylor, Nelly, Busta Rhymes. Connect on Social Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jadaspecht/

    1h 9m
See All (128)

Trailer

5
out of 5
55 Ratings

About

Welcome to the 'Business of Dance' with your host Menina Fortunato. Tune in as we dive into insightful interviews with industry experts, sharing personal journeys and career advice for aspiring pro dancers. This podcast is your key to turning your dance dreams into reality.

Information

  • Creator
    MENINA FORTUNATO
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    128
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © MENINA FORTUNATO
  • Show Website
    The Business of Dance

You Might Also Like