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THE BUSINESS
OF DANCE
PODCAST
The
VIDEO INTERVIEWS
Aliya Janell: ½ Billion Views, Beyonce, Brand Deals, Recording Debut & Opening the Stu LA
BUSINESS OF DANCE PODCAST - Episode 56 with @AliyaJanell
https://www.bizofdance.com/thepodcast
Episode Summary:
Aliya Janell, a dancer, choreographer, and influencer who has made a major impact in the dance world. Known for her viral choreography videos, Aliya has worked with top artists like Beyoncé, Chris Brown, and Nicki Minaj. She takes us through her journey from a young hip hop dancer in L.A. to becoming an online sensation with millions of views on platforms like YouTube.
Aliya discusses her early days training at Millennium Dance Complex, her transition from dancer to choreographer, and how she overcame imposter syndrome. She also shares the importance of social media consistency, building a brand, and balancing creativity with business. Aliya talks about the highs and challenges of tour life, particularly with Beyoncé, and the importance of diversifying your career. From teaching to opening her own studio, Aliya Janell has truly expanded the definition of what it means to be a successful artist in the modern dance world. She offers valuable advice to aspiring dancers on how to navigate their careers, manage their personal lives, and embrace the journey with authenticity and confidence.
Show Notes:
(0:00) - Introduction to Aliya Janell: Dancer, Choreographer, and Dance Influencer
(3:10) - Aliya’s Early Dance Journey: Starting at 5 Years Old
(7:30) - Transitioning from Dance Hobby to Career: The Realization of Making Dance a Living
(12:50) - Teaching & Choreography: Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Finding Her Voice
(18:30) - Going Viral: Level Up with 40 Million Views
(22:00) - The Role of Social Media: From Posting to Collaborating with Celebrities
(26:10) - Evolving into a Business: Managing Brand Deals and Developing the Entrepreneurial Side
(33:30) - The Importance of Consistency and Strategy in Social Media
(36:20) - Aliya’s Beyoncé Audition Experience: From the DM to the Stage
(42:00) - The Reality of Tour Life: Balancing Career and Personal Life on the Road
(47:30) - The Stew Los Angeles: Opening a Studio and Building a Creative Space
(52:40) - Music Artist: Aliya’s New Path in Music and the Importance of Monetizing Content
(57:20) - Managing Multiple Business Ventures: Advice for Aspiring Dancers with Diverse Interests
(1:03:00) - Aliya’s Advice to Aspiring Dancers: Embracing the Journey, Staying True to Yourself, and Being a Good Person
(1:08:30) - Final Words: Trusting Your Own Journey and the Power of a Supportive Team
(1:12:00) - Q&A with Business of Dance Mentees: Questions on Balancing Career and Personal Life, Building Confidence, and More
Biography:
Aliya Janell is an LA based choreographer, dancer, and content creator. Since the viral success of her dance masterclasses in 2017, Aliya earned herself over 2 million followers on her social media. Making high energy, sexy, athletic choreography her signature she created her own brand Queens N Lettos. Since then, she’s choreographed and danced alongside artists like Beyoncé (Renaissance Tour), Nicki Minaj (Queen Album), Jennifer Lopez (It’s My Party Tour), and many more.
Understanding the importance of social media Aliya continued to grow her platforms and has landed partnerships with Gatorade, Fitbit, Shoedazzle, Coca Cola, Viacom and many more. As demand for her QNL classes grew around the world she’s found a new purpose to show dancers to “create their own” and be in the forefront of their own careers as Aliya did. Just this year, Aliya made the biggest move yet and opened up her very own dance studio with partner and celebrity choreographer, Chuck Maldonado. Even with all the accomplishments the past 8 years, Aliya is nowhere near done.
Connect on Social Media:
/ thealiyajanell
/ @aliyajanell
/ therealaliyajanell
Website
https://thestulosangeles.com/
--------
Hosted by Menina Fortunato
Like, Follow & Subscribe @
www.instagram.com/meninafortunato
www.facebook.com/meninafortunato
/ menina.fortunato
https://www.bizofdance.com/thepodcast
Episode Summary:
Aliya Janell, a dancer, choreographer, and influencer who has made a major impact in the dance world. Known for her viral choreography videos, Aliya has worked with top artists like Beyoncé, Chris Brown, and Nicki Minaj. She takes us through her journey from a young hip hop dancer in L.A. to becoming an online sensation with millions of views on platforms like YouTube.
Aliya discusses her early days training at Millennium Dance Complex, her transition from dancer to choreographer, and how she overcame imposter syndrome. She also shares the importance of social media consistency, building a brand, and balancing creativity with business. Aliya talks about the highs and challenges of tour life, particularly with Beyoncé, and the importance of diversifying your career. From teaching to opening her own studio, Aliya Janell has truly expanded the definition of what it means to be a successful artist in the modern dance world. She offers valuable advice to aspiring dancers on how to navigate their careers, manage their personal lives, and embrace the journey with authenticity and confidence.
Show Notes:
(0:00) - Introduction to Aliya Janell: Dancer, Choreographer, and Dance Influencer
(3:10) - Aliya’s Early Dance Journey: Starting at 5 Years Old
(7:30) - Transitioning from Dance Hobby to Career: The Realization of Making Dance a Living
(12:50) - Teaching & Choreography: Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Finding Her Voice
(18:30) - Going Viral: Level Up with 40 Million Views
(22:00) - The Role of Social Media: From Posting to Collaborating with Celebrities
(26:10) - Evolving into a Business: Managing Brand Deals and Developing the Entrepreneurial Side
(33:30) - The Importance of Consistency and Strategy in Social Media
(36:20) - Aliya’s Beyoncé Audition Experience: From the DM to the Stage
(42:00) - The Reality of Tour Life: Balancing Career and Personal Life on the Road
(47:30) - The Stew Los Angeles: Opening a Studio and Building a Creative Space
(52:40) - Music Artist: Aliya’s New Path in Music and the Importance of Monetizing Content
(57:20) - Managing Multiple Business Ventures: Advice for Aspiring Dancers with Diverse Interests
(1:03:00) - Aliya’s Advice to Aspiring Dancers: Embracing the Journey, Staying True to Yourself, and Being a Good Person
(1:08:30) - Final Words: Trusting Your Own Journey and the Power of a Supportive Team
(1:12:00) - Q&A with Business of Dance Mentees: Questions on Balancing Career and Personal Life, Building Confidence, and More
Biography:
Aliya Janell is an LA based choreographer, dancer, and content creator. Since the viral success of her dance masterclasses in 2017, Aliya earned herself over 2 million followers on her social media. Making high energy, sexy, athletic choreography her signature she created her own brand Queens N Lettos. Since then, she’s choreographed and danced alongside artists like Beyoncé (Renaissance Tour), Nicki Minaj (Queen Album), Jennifer Lopez (It’s My Party Tour), and many more.
Understanding the importance of social media Aliya continued to grow her platforms and has landed partnerships with Gatorade, Fitbit, Shoedazzle, Coca Cola, Viacom and many more. As demand for her QNL classes grew around the world she’s found a new purpose to show dancers to “create their own” and be in the forefront of their own careers as Aliya did. Just this year, Aliya made the biggest move yet and opened up her very own dance studio with partner and celebrity choreographer, Chuck Maldonado. Even with all the accomplishments the past 8 years, Aliya is nowhere near done.
Connect on Social Media:
/ thealiyajanell
/ @aliyajanell
/ therealaliyajanell
Website
https://thestulosangeles.com/
--------
Hosted by Menina Fortunato
Like, Follow & Subscribe @
www.instagram.com/meninafortunato
www.facebook.com/meninafortunato
/ menina.fortunato
Industry Dance Awards | Red Carpet Arrivals at Avalon Hollywood with Menina Fortunato
BUSINESS OF DANCE PODCAST - Episode 59 with @menina.fortunato at @industrydanceawards
https://www.bizofdance.com/thepodcast
Episode Summary: Host Menina Fortunato takes listeners on the red carpet at the Industry Dance Awards. Featuring exclusive interviews with top dance industry professionals, award recipients, and performers, the episode highlights inspiring stories, career advice, and upcoming projects from some of the biggest names in dance. From honoring dance veterans to young rising stars, this episode is a must-listen for aspiring dancers and industry insiders.
00:00 - Introduction Host: Menina Fortunato
01:30 - Phil Wright (Host of the Night) @PhilWright
Hosting the event with humor and excitement while emphasizing perseverance in dance.
04:20 - Allison Holker @AllisonHolkerOfficial
Presenting the Stephen Boss Legacy of Hope Scholarship and discussing her upcoming memoir.
07:15 - JoJo Siwa @ItsJoJoSiwa
Choreographing for the IDA Icons and sharing her passion for young dancers.
09:30 - Krista Miller @kristamiller
Celebrating her daughter’s achievements and advising parents on supporting their child’s dance journey.
11:45 - Autumn Miller (Breakout Artist Award Recipient) @autiefreestylefriday
Grateful for recognition, currently touring, and emphasizing humility and hard work.
14:10 - Tia Stokes (Host) @TheTiaStokes
Honoring young cancer fighters and promoting her upcoming documentary and benefit concert.
16:25 - Mollee Gray @MolleeGray
Long-time IDA supporter teasing new projects and encouraging young dancers to believe in themselves.
18:50 - Cast of "Dance Life"
Attending IDA for the first time and sharing career aspirations.
22:00 - Pittman Sisters @PittmanSisters
Winning the Social Star Award and discussing upcoming collaborations.
24:30 - Cost N Mayor (Viral Trendsetters Award) @CostNMayor
Launching a dance card game and advising dancers to leverage digital platforms.
27:15 - Brian Friedman (Educator of the Year Award) @BrianFriedman
Reflecting on his mentorship journey and emphasizing education in dance.
30:50 - Sophia Lucia @SophiaLucia
Hosting an upcoming dance intensive and advising dancers to build strong legal and support networks.
33:10 - Noah Lands (Industry Dance Awards CEO)
Raising funds for Dancers Against Cancer and producing a new documentary.
35:30 - Christopher Scott & Lance
Choreographing major productions like "Wicked" and emphasizing dance community support.
38:00 - Blake McGrath @BlakeMcGrath
Announcing fatherhood and mentoring young dancers.
40:30 - Marcea Lane
Launching new dancewear and working on a film about her life.
42:50 - Jennifer Jones
Presenting the Future Visionary Award and discussing her upcoming memoir.
45:20 - Jocelyn Basham
Highlighting Dancers Against Cancer’s impact and emphasizing kindness in the industry.
47:00 - Kenzie Robertson
Excited about networking and working on new projects in LA.
49:00 - Braylon Browner
Performing a self-choreographed solo and striving to choreograph for film and TV.
51:30 - Marcia Lane
Presenting awards, launching new dancewear, and sharing business insights.
54:00 - Christina Grady
Supporting honored fighters and preparing for the Tremaine convention season.
56:00 - Jennifer Jones
Presenting the Future Visionary Award and launching new books.
58:00 - Tessa & Chase
Nominated for Teacher of the Year and choreographing for Shania Twain at the People’s Choice Country Awards.
About the Industry Dance Awards: The Industry Dance Awards & Cancer Benefit Show is an annual event celebrating excellence in dance while raising funds for the Dancers Against Cancer Foundation to support dancers and their families affected by cancer.
Connect with the Industry Dance Awards:
Website: www.industrydanceawards.com
Facebook: facebook.com/industrydanceawards
Instagram: @industrydanceawards
https://www.bizofdance.com/thepodcast
Episode Summary: Host Menina Fortunato takes listeners on the red carpet at the Industry Dance Awards. Featuring exclusive interviews with top dance industry professionals, award recipients, and performers, the episode highlights inspiring stories, career advice, and upcoming projects from some of the biggest names in dance. From honoring dance veterans to young rising stars, this episode is a must-listen for aspiring dancers and industry insiders.
00:00 - Introduction Host: Menina Fortunato
01:30 - Phil Wright (Host of the Night) @PhilWright
Hosting the event with humor and excitement while emphasizing perseverance in dance.
04:20 - Allison Holker @AllisonHolkerOfficial
Presenting the Stephen Boss Legacy of Hope Scholarship and discussing her upcoming memoir.
07:15 - JoJo Siwa @ItsJoJoSiwa
Choreographing for the IDA Icons and sharing her passion for young dancers.
09:30 - Krista Miller @kristamiller
Celebrating her daughter’s achievements and advising parents on supporting their child’s dance journey.
11:45 - Autumn Miller (Breakout Artist Award Recipient) @autiefreestylefriday
Grateful for recognition, currently touring, and emphasizing humility and hard work.
14:10 - Tia Stokes (Host) @TheTiaStokes
Honoring young cancer fighters and promoting her upcoming documentary and benefit concert.
16:25 - Mollee Gray @MolleeGray
Long-time IDA supporter teasing new projects and encouraging young dancers to believe in themselves.
18:50 - Cast of "Dance Life"
Attending IDA for the first time and sharing career aspirations.
22:00 - Pittman Sisters @PittmanSisters
Winning the Social Star Award and discussing upcoming collaborations.
24:30 - Cost N Mayor (Viral Trendsetters Award) @CostNMayor
Launching a dance card game and advising dancers to leverage digital platforms.
27:15 - Brian Friedman (Educator of the Year Award) @BrianFriedman
Reflecting on his mentorship journey and emphasizing education in dance.
30:50 - Sophia Lucia @SophiaLucia
Hosting an upcoming dance intensive and advising dancers to build strong legal and support networks.
33:10 - Noah Lands (Industry Dance Awards CEO)
Raising funds for Dancers Against Cancer and producing a new documentary.
35:30 - Christopher Scott & Lance
Choreographing major productions like "Wicked" and emphasizing dance community support.
38:00 - Blake McGrath @BlakeMcGrath
Announcing fatherhood and mentoring young dancers.
40:30 - Marcea Lane
Launching new dancewear and working on a film about her life.
42:50 - Jennifer Jones
Presenting the Future Visionary Award and discussing her upcoming memoir.
45:20 - Jocelyn Basham
Highlighting Dancers Against Cancer’s impact and emphasizing kindness in the industry.
47:00 - Kenzie Robertson
Excited about networking and working on new projects in LA.
49:00 - Braylon Browner
Performing a self-choreographed solo and striving to choreograph for film and TV.
51:30 - Marcia Lane
Presenting awards, launching new dancewear, and sharing business insights.
54:00 - Christina Grady
Supporting honored fighters and preparing for the Tremaine convention season.
56:00 - Jennifer Jones
Presenting the Future Visionary Award and launching new books.
58:00 - Tessa & Chase
Nominated for Teacher of the Year and choreographing for Shania Twain at the People’s Choice Country Awards.
About the Industry Dance Awards: The Industry Dance Awards & Cancer Benefit Show is an annual event celebrating excellence in dance while raising funds for the Dancers Against Cancer Foundation to support dancers and their families affected by cancer.
Connect with the Industry Dance Awards:
Website: www.industrydanceawards.com
Facebook: facebook.com/industrydanceawards
Instagram: @industrydanceawards
PHOTOS
Behind the Scenes Photos of Menina interviewing guests for the Business of Dance Podcast
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