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Dance Dad With John Corella

Dance Dad LLC

As one of the co creators/executive producers of the hit reality show Dance Moms, this podcast will be a safe space to talk about all things Dance. I will have meaningful conversations with guests from the show Dance Moms, as well as discussing the colorful, magical Dance competition world that I grew up competing in and am still a part of teaching and choreographing for. Dancing and being in the film and TV Industry for over 40 years I will be talking with those who who have inspired me and we will share our knowledge on what worked, what didn’t and why. Growing up a young feminine boy who loved to dance was extremely challenging in a lot of ways. Now as gay man I will have some heartfelt meetings with people in the LGBTQ community to share about this and the suffering that goes on currently with adults and kids and how we can help and most importantly heal it.

Put your dance shoes on every other Friday when this podcast comes out! Listen. Be Bold. Be Fierce.

Sincerely,
John Corella

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#59
Thursday · 1 hr 10 min
EP 57: Men's Gymnastics is So Gay with Andrew Chupp
Andrew Chupp’s Britney Spears mashup went viral, even catching the attention of longtime Britney Spears choreographer Brian Friedman. But the routine also drew hundreds of angry comments from strangers furious about a man competing in women’s gymnastics events. Host John Corella brings on Andrew, an adult gymnast, photographer, and coach with more than a decade of coaching experience who now specializes in optional-level gymnastics, for a conversation on Dance Dad recorded ahead of his trip to the 2026 Gay Games in Valencia. Andrew explains how he answers the people who say beam is not his to use, and what changed the night he had a dream that sent him back into training after years away from the sport. He also shares the comments he hears whenever he posts himself on beam and the tools that help him keep online backlash in perspective, plus the injury that had him nervous about being ready for Spain and the Gay Games. John and Andrew talk about what happens when male gymnasts challenge old ideas about masculinity and femininity, why more gyms are making room for adult gymnastics, and how organizations like AAU, NAIGC, and NGA are creating ways for adults to compete, and what it means for LGBTQ+ athletes in sports to compete without hiding who they are. Andrew has become one of the more visible faces of adult gymnastics and of men competing in women’s gymnastics events, and he does not soften the parts of the conversation that make people uncomfortable. Press play for a conversation about beam, boldness, and what it actually costs to stay in a sport that was not built with you in mind. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Welcoming Andrew Chupp To The Meet 02:02 Previewing The 2026 Gay Games In Valencia 04:51 A Man Competing In Women's Gymnastics Events 05:35 Andrew's Childhood Gymnastics and Being Forced Into Boys’ Events 10:22 The Dream That Brought Him Back 14:18 The Viral Britney Spears Floor Routine 16:31 Backlash, Trans Athletes, and the Olympics Debate 25:19 Healing Gymnastics Trauma As An Adult 44:18 Closing The Access Gaps In Adult Gymnastics 49:47 Safe Spaces, Vulnerability, and Family Acceptance Connect with John Corella: Follow Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram Follow John on Instagram Join Dance Dad with John Corella on Patreon Visit John Corella’s website Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm
#58
August 13 · 1 hr 3 min
EP 56: Dance Moms Star’s Experience With Racism in Dance with Nicaya Wiley
The racism in the dance competition world doesn't always show up as outright hostility. Sometimes racism looks like a studio owner quietly leaving your name off the audition list. Nicaya Wiley spent seasons two through seven on Dance Moms, and on this episode of Dance Dad with John Corella, she gets honest about what the experience cost her. Growing up as a Black dancer in a predominantly white studio meant rarely receiving corrections in class, questioning whether her body was built for this, and getting body shamed on national television before she was old enough to process what was happening. Her mom is central to everything. She submitted Nicaya directly to casting when the studio tried to quietly leave her off the list. She faced racial slurs in the dressing room, none of which made the air. She came out as gay on the show, which Nicaya calls the boldest thing she has ever witnessed. And she raised a daughter who eventually learned to stop apologizing for the body she was born in. Black dancers and body image in dance training is something the industry still doesn't talk about enough. Nicaya reflects on what changed for her after studying with the late Judith Jamison and what diversity in professional dance feels like now, performing aboard a Norwegian Cruise Line ship with castmates who finally look like her. If you've been wondering about the Dance Moms cast and where they are now, Nicaya Wiley is still dancing, still growing, and still the person her mother raised her to be. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Nicaya Wiley on Racism in the Dance Competition World 01:32 The Four Questions With John and Nicaya 03:14 Training With Judith Jamison at Alvin Ailey 05:39 Learning to Never Apologize for Who You Are as a Dancer 07:38 Body Standards and Race in the Dance Competition World 10:40 The Economics of Flexibility in Dance Training 15:37 How Nicaya's Mom Got Her on Dance Moms 18:36 What Her Mom Taught Her About Standing Your Ground 22:04 Dealing With Cyberbullying After Dance Moms 26:03 Losing Her Brother and Father and Dancing Through Grief 31:40 Seeing Real Change in Diversity in Professional Dance 43:44 How to Address Racism in the Dance World 51:03 Best Memories From Dance Moms 56:59 What Dance Means to Nicaya Wiley 1:00:10 Favorite Dancer, Choreographer, Style, and Dance Movie Connect with Nicaya Wiley: Follow Nicaya on Instagram Connect with John Corella: Follow Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram Follow John on Instagram Join Dance Dad with John Corella on Patreon Visit John Corella’s website Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm
#57
July 30 · 54 min
EP 55: Countdown to LA28 with Olympic Gold Gymnastics Champion Daniela Silivas
The countdown to LA28 has officially begun, and there's no better way to kick it off than looking back at the gymnast who made history in Seoul. Three-time gold medalist Daniela Silivas joins Dance Dad with John Corella to explain how ballet training shaped her gymnastics long before LA28 was even a headline. Daniela grew up training in communist-era Romania, where her first year of gymnastics consisted entirely of ballet, flexibility, and strength training, seven days a week. She breaks down how gymnasts use dance training to build the control that shows up later on beam and floor, the same foundation today’s LA28 hopefuls are building, whether they realize it or not. She also revisits her floor performances at the 1987 World Championships, where she earned three perfect 10s across the competition, and the story behind the skill now known as the Silivaș mount on balance beam. That routine helped carry her to Seoul, where she medaled on every event and became one of the most decorated gymnasts in Olympic history. As the world turns its attention to LA28, Daniela's story is a reminder of what it takes to get there. Listen to the full episode to hear how a ballet training that began when she was five years old in Romania turned into three Olympic gold medals, and why the fundamentals still matter more than the flash. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Meet Three-Time Gold Medalist Daniela Silivas 02:24 Winning World Championship Gold As A Team 06:51 Inside The Legendary 1987 Romanian Team 10:59 Why Ballet Comes Before Gymnastics In Romania 16:24 Performing Compulsory Routines For Judges And Crowds 20:27 Throwing A New Skill At The Olympics 27:33 Falling In Love With Gymnastics At Five 33:44 Turning Nerves Into Confidence On Beam 38:14 Coaching The Next Generation Of Gymnasts 47:44 Creating The Silivas’ Mount On Beam Connect with John Corella: Follow Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram Follow John on Instagram Join Dance Dad with John Corella on Patreon Visit John Corella’s website Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm
#56
July 16 · 29 min
EP 54: Dear John: Happy 15th Birthday Dance Moms!
Nationals season exposes how dance families handle pressure, pride, and time together. On this episode of Dance Dad with John Corella, host John Corella shares hard truths about dance competition nationals and why Nationals are not a vacation for dancers, teachers, or parents. He explains why dancers should aim to peak later in the season instead of too early, why rest matters once the season ends, and why over-planning often comes from fear rather than love. Families heading into dance competition nationals will hear advice on staying focused when the pressure hits hardest. John also gets personal about safety and identity inside the dance world. He states plainly why dance is gay at heart and why LGBTQ+ representation in dance still falls short. He makes the case to stop hiring straight actors for gay roles and to give gay performers room to tell their own stories. He also addresses dance parent burnout and the quiet cost of chasing perfection instead of presence with your child. John draws on decades inside the competition world to remind families how fast the years pass. This episode feels like a coffee chat with a friend who tells you the truth. Tune in to Dance Dad with John Corella for straight talk on competition season, identity, and presence with your kid during the moments you never get back. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Welcome Back to Dance Dad With John Corella 02:27 Recapping Past Guests and Community Stories 04:56 Staying Focused During Dance Competition Nationals 07:16 Why Rest and Intensives Matter After the Season Ends 09:42 Letting Go of Over-Planning and Fear 12:08 Feeling Safe as a Gay Man in the Dance World 14:11 Healing Through Internal Family Systems Therapy 21:28 Calling Out Studios That Use the LGBTQ Community 23:51 Dance as a Gay Platform and Real Allies 26:21 Stop Hiring Straight Actors for Gay Roles 28:19 Staying Present With Your Child Connect with John Corella: Follow Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram Follow John on Instagram Join Dance Dad with John Corella on Patreon Visit John Corella’s website Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm
#55
July 2 · 1 hr 10 min
EP 53: The Agent Conversation Every Dance Mom Needs to Hear with Lisa Lindholm
Getting a talent agent is one of the most misunderstood steps in a young dancer's career, and most families are going in blind. John Corella sits down with Lisa Lindholm, vice president of Go 2 Talent Agency, for an honest conversation about what it actually takes to get a dance agent, what agents are really looking for, and how parents can support their kids without getting in the way. Lisa breaks down the difference between competition dance vs commercial dance, and why the tricks that win trophies are not always what books jobs. She talks about how to get a dance agent from the ground up, including what makes a strong submission and why you should always verify an agent through the SAG-AFTRA or ATA websites before signing anything. The conversation also gets real about the mental health side of the business. Lisa shares how she supports clients through burnout and career breaks, and why open communication with your agent is not a weakness. She also calls out the green flags agents bring to the table, what parents should look for when evaluating representation, and why you should never pay to sign with anyone. For dance parents researching agent submissions and dancers looking for dance audition tips for kids, this episode of Dance Dad with John Corella is the resource you did not know you needed. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Meet Lisa Lindholm of Go 2 Talent Agency 06:21 What Agents Look for When Signing Young Dancers 08:17 Why Kids Need to Stay Kids in the Entertainment Industry 11:04 Lisa's Dance Background and Path to Los Angeles 19:02 Competition Dance vs Commercial Dance Explained 22:24 How to Get a Dance Agent as a Submission 26:31 What Makes a Strong Reel and Headshot for Kids 32:32 How Much Should Parents Be Involved in Their Child's Career 36:03 How to Handle Rejection in the Dance Industry 37:15 Green Flags When Evaluating a Dance Agent 43:20 Mental Health and Communicating Openly With Your Agent 46:31 The State of Dance Training in Los Angeles 51:47 What the Dance Industry Really Thought About Dance Moms 55:18 Social Media Presence and Whether Agents Actually Care Connect with Lisa Lindholm: Visit the Go 2 Talent Agency website Connect with John Corella: Follow Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram Follow John on Instagram Join Dance Dad with John Corella on Patreon Visit John Corella’s website Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm
#54
June 18 · 58 min
EP 52: Nothing Scares Men More Than A Feminine Boy Who Dances with Bronson Arrivillaga and his Dance Mom Katlyn
Bronson Arrivillaga is only 10 years old, but he already knows what it means to take up space. He has performed in the Super Bowl halftime show with Bad Bunny, landed a role on The Pitt, and competed on stages where confidence is not optional. Yet what stands out most about Bronson is not the size of the opportunity. It is the way he talks about dance as a form of storytelling, self-expression, and connection. In this episode of Dance Dad, host John Corella sits down with Bronson and his mom, Katlyn, for a conversation about what it means to be a boy in dance, especially a boy who refuses to shrink himself to make other people comfortable. Bronson also talks about the harder parts. Dance moms bullying, negative online comments targeting his videos, and being questioned just for showing up as himself. His response every time is to walk back to his people and keep going. From wearing Tiger Friday with zero apology to competing in multiple group dances and solos this season, Bronson is clear about one thing. Anything you do should make you feel happy and powerful. Katlyn's steadiness as a parent runs through the whole conversation and makes it clear why Bronson moves through the world the way he does. His dreams are already becoming his life. He is playing characters on network TV, performing on the biggest stages in the world, and he is just getting started. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Meet Bronson Arrivillaga: Boy Dancer Inspiration Behind the Super Bowl Halftime Show 03:15 Finding Happiness and Purpose Through Dance 07:09 Why the Family Moved From Indiana to LA to Chase His Dreams 09:55 What It Was Really Like Performing the Super Bowl With Bad Bunny 12:57 Behind the Scenes Secrets From the Bad Bunny Halftime Show 16:57 What Bronson Loves Most About Dance and Competing 23:31 The Story He Most Wants to Tell Through Dance 27:26 How Bronson Shows Adults What It Means to Be Yourself 28:38 Dealing With Dance Moms Bullying and Online Hate 34:15 Feeling Safe at Dance Conventions as a Boy Who Dances 39:30 Why Bronson Loves Acting Just as Much as Dance 40:37 Playing Patient Ben Baker on The Pitt 48:28 Competing to Prince and Wednesday This Season 50:45 Favorite Choreographers, Dancers, and Dance Movies 55:40 The Boldest Things Bronson and Katlyn Have Ever Done Connect with Bronson Arrivillaga: Follow Bronson on Instagram Connect with John Corella: Follow Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram Follow John on Instagram Join Dance Dad with John Corella on Patreon Visit John Corella’s website Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm
#53
June 4 · 1 hr 26 min
EP 51: Pride or Problematic: Is Heated Rivalry Good for Gay Men? | Jake & Kendrick, The JK But Gay Show
Jake and Kendrick came on Dance Dad to talk about Heated Rivalry. They ended up talking about something much harder: what gay men are taught to hide from themselves and each other. John Corella, host of Dance Dad and co-creator of Dance Moms, sits down with Jake and Kendrick of The JK But Gay Show for a Pride Month conversation about body image, masculinity, friendship, intimacy, and the stories gay men carry into adulthood. The episode starts with a debate about Heated Rivalry, but it quickly becomes more personal than anyone expected. John came in skeptical of the show. Jake and Kendrick came in as fans. What they work out together touches on gay body image issues, whether therapy changes the way you consume media, and whether a show can be pure entertainment and still carry a real responsibility to the people watching it. Nobody wraps it up neatly, and that is what makes it worth listening to. The conversation gets personal fast. Jake talks about growing up where crying was not acceptable and what that cost him. Kendrick shares a coming out story that started during confession at the Vatican. John reflects honestly on why he kept falling for emotionally unavailable men. LGBTQ masculinity is not treated as a talking point here. It comes up the way it actually lives, inside specific memories and patterns that took years to name. Underneath all of it is the thing Jake and Kendrick built together. Real gay male friendship is rarer than it should be, and they started their show because they knew that. Gay men and emotional maturity, platonic loyalty, and what it looks like to grow alongside another person are not side topics here. They are the whole foundation. This is one of those episodes that stays with you. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Welcome to Dance Dad with John Corella 02:10 Meet Jake and Kendrick of the JK But Gay Show 08:31 Does Heated Rivalry Give Gay Men Body Image Issues 15:55 Hiding Your Identity in Sports and the Closet 41:17 Does Heated Rivalry Reinforce or Challenge Masculinity 48:12 Why Gay Men Are Drawn to Emotionally Unavailable Partners 52:51 The Difference Between Sex and Intimacy for Gay Men 59:46 A Gay Therapist Explains Why Heated Rivalry Feels So Good 1:17:06 Kendrick's Coming Out Story at the Vatican 1:21:04 Favorite Selena Quintanilla Songs 1:24:10 The Boldest Thing Each of Them Has Ever Done Connect with Jake and Kendrick: Follow Jake and Kendrick on Instagram Connect with John Corella: Follow Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram Follow John on Instagram Join Dance Dad with John Corella on Patreon Visit John Corella’s website Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm
#52
May 21 · 1 hr 23 min
EP 50: Gen Z Men Redefining Dance with Rahja "King" Fuller
Rahja Fuller did not luck into the Brandy and Monica Tour. He trained for it, prepared for it, and walked into the audition like he belonged there. On Dance Dad, host John Corella talks with dancer, singer, actor, and former Pop Money member Rahja Fuller about how to become a professional dancer with focus, humility, and real industry awareness. At just 19, Rahja has already moved from competition dance to major stages. Learning how to become a professional dancer is not only about being talented. It is about doing the small jobs before the big ones, taking unpaid opportunities when they build real experience, and understanding that relationships matter. Walk in like you belong there. Let your personality show. Stay present in the room. Focus on what makes you stand out instead of worrying about who else might book the job. This conversation also gives space to a thoughtful discussion about Gen Z, masculinity, and the expectations placed on young men in dance. Rahja speaks openly about ballet, contemporary, hip hop, breakdance, and the way masculinity and male dancers are often talked about from the outside. His take on masculinity is rooted in confidence, discipline, self-respect, and comfort in your own skin. For young dancers, parents, teachers, and anyone trying to understand what it really takes to build a career in entertainment, this episode offers more than a success story. It is a clear reminder that preparation matters long before the audition starts. Rahja is young, driven, and already thinking like someone who wants to bring people with him. Work hard. Stay ready. Know your history. And when the room opens, dance like you already know why you are there. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Dance Dad with John Corella and Guest Rahja Fuller 02:56 How Rahja Booked the Boy Is Mine Tour Audition at 19 04:08 Why Dance Competition Kids Make Better Professional Dancers 11:52 What Competition Dance Teaches You About Rejection and Resilience 28:26 The Role of a Supportive Dance Dad in a Dancer's Success 41:27 Dance Audition Tips from a 19-Year-Old Who Booked a Major Tour 54:39 Masculinity and Male Dancers in 2026 1:07:27 Why Doing Free Work Is Essential to Building a Dance Career Connect with Rahja Fuller: Follow Rahja on Instagram Connect with John Corella: Follow Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram Follow John on Instagram Join Dance Dad with John Corella on Patreon Visit John Corella’s website Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm
#51
May 7 · 1 hr 22 min
EP 49: Season 3 Premiere Episode: When Her Boys Became Men on Stage with My Dance Mom
For anyone raising boys who dance, this Mother’s Day episode will hit home fast. In this season 3 premiere episode of Dance Dad, John Corella sits down with his mom Sylvia and his brother Joseph for a conversation that goes far beyond recital memories. It gets into what it really takes to believe in a child before the rest of the world catches up. Sylvia shares what it meant to be a dance mom for two sons in an environment that did not always make room for boys who dance, and why supporting boys in dance can shape far more than talent. It can shape confidence, identity, and the courage to stay true to yourself. There is a lot here for listeners who want honesty, heart, and a few Dance Mom funny moments too. You get family stories about competitions, Broadway, Star Search, tough feedback, and the kind of humor only siblings and a seasoned dance mom can bring. You also hear how Sylvia’s life experience as a survivor of cancer, stroke, and loss gave her a deeper sense of faith and perspective. That turns this into more than a family tribute. It becomes real inspiration to be kind, stand up for your kids, and keep going through hard seasons. If you care about parenting, resilience, or the lasting impact of believing in boys who dance, this one is worth your time. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Mother’s Day Special With Sylvia Corella and Joseph Corella 05:22 How a Dance Mom Supported Boys Who Dance 16:20 Bullying, Courage, and Supporting Boys in Dance 20:23 Advice for Dance Moms Raising Boys Who Dance 33:08 Cancer, Faith, and Staying Strong Through Hard Seasons 36:42 Broadway, Star Search, and Proud Family Milestones 44:59 What Winning Means in Dance and in Life 53:55 Dance Parent Pressure, Judgment, and Protecting Young Dancers 01:00:21 Betty Boop, Dance Memories, and Funny Family Moments 01:09:13 Bold Choices, Moving Away, and Building a Creative Life Connect with John Corella: www.josephcorella.com Follow Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram Follow John on Instagram Join Dance Dad with John Corella on Patreon Visit John Corella’s website Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm
#50
March 26 · 38 min
Bonus Episode: How to Win at Dance Competitions: What Alysa Liu Actually Reminded Us
Mental performance coaching is changing how athletes and parents think about success in youth sports. In this bonus episode, John Corella and mental performance coach Lisa Mitzel discuss how a healthier youth sports mindset can help young athletes compete with confidence without losing their sense of self. The discussion draws inspiration from Olympic champion Alysa Liu, whose approach to competition highlights the power of present moment performance and emotional awareness. Lisa explains how mental performance coaching helps athletes stay grounded during pressure moments instead of becoming trapped in results, expectations, or fear of mistakes. Alysa Liu’s journey illustrates how athletes can perform at the highest level when they trust their instincts, respect their bodies, and remain present during competition. Present moment performance allows athletes to stay connected to what they are doing instead of obsessing over scores, placements, or approval from others. Parents also influence how young athletes experience competition. John and Lisa discuss how family values shape the environment around training and performance. Parents often feel pressure to protect children from disappointment, yet mental performance coaching shows that resilience develops when kids learn to face setbacks with support instead of avoidance. This youth sports mindset encourages patience, accountability, and emotional strength. The conversation also addresses body image and the messages young athletes receive about their bodies in dance and sports. Through sports parenting advice and real examples from training environments, John and Lisa encourage parents to create conversations that help children appreciate their bodies and build confidence from within. Mental performance coaching appears throughout the episode as a framework for helping athletes manage pressure, respond to mistakes, and compete with greater awareness. Parents who want a healthier youth sports mindset will hear practical sports parenting advice that supports both performance and well-being. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction to Mental Performance Coaching and Youth Sports Mindset 01:27 Alysa Liu and the Power of Present Moment Performance 04:34 Sports Parenting Advice and Building Strong Family Values 08:57 Shifting From Results to a Healthy Youth Sports Mindset 13:00 Present Moment Performance vs Perfection in Competition 20:03 Mental Performance Coaching and Learning From Failure 29:44 Parents, Pressure, and Accountability in Youth Sports 33:05 Alysa Liu and Joy in Competition Connect with Lisa Mitzel: Visit Lisa's website Connect with John Corella: Follow Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram Follow John on Instagram Join Dance Dad with John Corella on Patreon Visit John Corella’s website Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm
#49
Dec 25, 2025 · 32 min
EP 48: How to Audition for Convention Scholarships
Auditions take on a new clarity as John Corella shows how dancers can stay grounded, choose an outfit that supports their presence, rely on their 3 tricks, and move through the journey with steadier confidence. John talks openly about the pressure dancers feel and the emotional weight parents carry. It raises important questions. What helps someone stay centered in a room full of nerves? How does a dancer build confidence when the result is out of their hands? He explains why courage grows in spaces where dancers can try, fail, and continue without shame. He also breaks down what teachers actually notice, from focus and kindness to an outfit that helps them remember you. His take on improv feels especially helpful. The 3 tricks approach gives dancers something reliable to lean on when the moment feels unpredictable. Listeners will leave with a clearer sense of the audition journey and the mindset that helps a dancer stay steady through every high and low. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction to Dance and Auditions 03:03 Navigating the Audition Process 05:52 Preparing for Auditions: Tips and Tricks 08:46 The Importance of Presentation and Focus 12:10 Understanding the Audition Environment 15:10 Improv and Showcasing Your Strengths 18:04 Coping with Rejection and Disappointment 20:57 Post-Audition Reflections and Growth 23:50 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Connect with John Corella: Follow Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram Follow John on Instagram Join Dance Dad with John Corella on Patreon Visit John Corella’s website Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm
#48
Dec 11, 2025 · 1 hr 1 min
EP 47: Holiday Episode with Yvette Walts from Dance Moms, AUDC
Yvette Walts opens up about the pressure tied to Dance Moms fame, the panic attacks that surfaced once episodes aired, and the steady purpose that guides her work as a studio owner. John Corella invites her to revisit the intense reality-TV environment that shaped so much of her early public life, and the conversation turns into an honest look at what happens when you see a version of yourself on screen that doesn’t match who you believe you are. How do you process that kind of shock? What helps you find your footing again? Yvette shares the role her community played as she worked through anxiety and self-forgiveness and she reflects on the difference between reacting in the moment and living with those reactions once millions of people have seen them. Yvette also brings forward two decades of insight from owning a dance studio and explains how structure, clarity, and genuine care built a space where more than a thousand students feel supported. What does it take to create a place that feels safe for growth? How do you lead with both expectation and compassion? Through stories from AUDC and Dance Moms and through reflections on panic attacks and leadership, this episode shows the resilience required to stay centered in a world that rarely gives you time to catch your breath. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Yvette Walts Joins John Corella 03:08 Behind the Scenes of AUDC 05:48 Reacting Under Stress on Reality TV 07:30 Regret, Self-Forgiveness, and Online Judgment 08:58 Panic Attacks After Seeing Herself on TV 19:47 From Gymnastics to Owning a Dance Studio 25:08 How Dance Moms Impacted Her Business 32:18 How Her Teaching Style Evolved Over Time 48:12 The Systems Behind a 1,100-Student Studio 49:53 Creating a Full Studio Experience 53:25 Advice for Studio Owners on Brand and Culture 01:00:06 Creative Influences and Final Reflections Connect with Yvette Walts: Follow Yvette on Instagram Connect with John Corella: Follow Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram Follow John on Instagram Join Dance Dad with John Corella on Patreon Visit John Corella’s website Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm
#47
Nov 27, 2025 · 1 hr 7 min
EP 46: Defying Gravity for 15 Years With Wicked Dance Justin Wirick
Fifteen years in Wicked collide with grief, queer joy and the quiet rituals that keep a performer brave eight shows a week. With part two of the Wicked movie now in theaters, John Corella celebrates the moment by revisiting his conversation with Justin Wirick, a longtime dancer with the Broadway National Tour of Wicked. What begins as a lighthearted holiday replay opens into a layered, intimate look at creativity, identity, resilience and the emotional depth woven into performing the same show thousands of times. Justin shares how ritual, presence and community have sustained him through the demands of touring life, the pressure of staying fresh onstage and the grief of losing his mother. He reflects on the ways Wicked mirrors the lived experiences of queer performers who spend years learning to celebrate the parts of themselves they once hid. This episode is a reminder that the courage to keep showing up for your art and for your truth is its own form of defying gravity. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Welcome and Wicked Movie Celebration 02:00 Justin Wirick on Nerves and Finding His Voice 05:30 Fifteen Years in Wicked and Touring Life 12:44 How Justin Finally Joined Wicked After Three Offers 17:41 Wicked Choreography: Stage vs Film 23:54 Justin’s Rituals for Calming Nerves Before Every Show 37:04 Choosing Joy and Staying Fresh After Thousands of Performances 41:08 Performing Through Grief After Losing His Mom 41:25 Why Wicked Resonates With LGBTQ+ Audiences 54:32 Staying Kind and Grounded in a Tough Industry 01:04:15 Dance Lightning Round and Where to Follow Justin Connect with Justin Wirick: Follow Justin on Instagram Connect with John Corella: Follow Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram Follow John on Instagram Join Dance Dad with John Corella on Patreon Visit John Corella’s website Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm
#46
Nov 13, 2025 · 1 hr 1 min
EP 45: The Boy Is Mine Tour Dancer with Charm Spencer
Charm Spencer opens up about tour life - the late nights, the travel, and the mindset that keeps him grounded while performing on The Boy Is Mine Tour with Brandy and Monica. In this episode, he joins John Corella to talk about learning to move between masculine and feminine energy onstage and how that balance shapes both his artistry and his identity. He reflects on rejection, growth, and humility with a kind of honesty that pulls you in. How do you stay true to yourself when every role asks for something different? How do you keep your confidence in an industry built on constant change? Charm’s story connects discipline with self-acceptance and reminds dancers that authenticity is its own kind of power. And for anyone who grew up watching Dance Moms, he shows how those early lessons in adaptability and storytelling still echo through every performance today. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Behind the Scenes of The Boy Is Mine Tour 06:00 Charm Spencer’s Journey to Becoming a Professional Dancer 09:03 Balancing Masculine and Feminine Energy in Dance 11:57 Breakthrough Auditions and Career Lessons 15:05 A Real Look at Tour Life 47:59 Handling Criticism and Protecting Your Energy 49:47 What Touring Dancers Teach Each Other 54:08 Dance Moms and Early Influences Connect with Charm Spencer: Follow Charm on Instagram Connect with John Corella: Follow Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram Follow John on Instagram Join Dance Dad with John Corella on Patreon Visit John Corella’s website Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm
#45
Oct 30, 2025 · 1 hr 11 min
EP 44: 1988 Olympics Womens Gymnastics Team Controversy with Missy Marlowe
When former Olympian Melissa Marlowe talks about the 1988 Olympic controversy and the bronze medal being taken away, she doesn’t just revisit a headline; she relives what it felt like to stand on the edge of history and have it quietly rewritten overnight. How does someone keep competing after that? What carries an athlete through when the spotlight fades but the memory doesn’t? As she joins John Corella in this episode, Melissa reflects on the discipline, artistry, and strength that defined her career, from the power in her legs and feet to the mindset that helped her face pressure and perfectionism. She shares how her coaches’ mix of kindness and toughness shaped her longevity in a sport built on precision and risk, and how she’s come to measure success in ways that last longer than medals. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Welcome to Dance Dad and Guest Intro 01:47 Early Ballet Roots and Natural Flexibility 05:05 Signature Lines: The Power of Legs and Feet 06:35 Beating Nerves with Sports Psychology 21:39 The Reality of Olympic Pressure: Was It Worth It 23:40 1988 Olympic Controversy: Bronze Medal Being Taken Away 45:22 Competing in the Cold War: USA vs USSR 51:09 Hard but Kind Coaching and Athlete Longevity 59:12 Scholarships, Overtraining, and Choosing Longevity 01:00:42 Life After the Olympics: Movement, Motherhood, Meaning Connect with Melissa Marlowe: Connect with Melissa on Instagram Connect with John Corella: Follow Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram Follow John on Instagram Join Dance Dad with John Corella on Patreon Visit John Corella’s website Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm
#44
Oct 16, 2025 · 1 hr 4 min
EP 43: The Turn Coach Method
What does it take to hit 10 turns with confidence? For Lynnrae Hiers Serra, it comes down to repetition, mechanics, and belief - the same mix that’s helped dancers of every level find their balance and push past limits. John Corella talks with Lynnrae, known to many as “The Turn Coach,” about how her journey started at the JPD dance studio under her mentor Terry Schulke and how that experience shaped her lifelong fascination with precision and progress. She explains why mastering turns isn’t about perfection but about patience, consistency, and learning how your body works. What happens when a dancer stops chasing technique and starts trusting the process instead? Lynnrae also shares tips for teachers and parents who want to help dancers grow without pressure, along with the story behind TurnCoach Enterprises and her mission to make effective turn training accessible to anyone. This episode looks at the intersection of art, discipline, and belief, and how small shifts in mindset can lead to those moments when everything clicks and the turns finally stick. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Welcome to Dance Dad and Episode Focus on Turns 01:10 Meet The Turn Coach and Motto “I Can Make Anybody Turn” 04:15 JPD Dance Studio Roots and Mentor Terry Schulke 06:25 The Turn Coach Method Progression and 10 Turns System 11:55 Challenging Tradition: Why Mechanics Come Before Perfection 13:59 What Actually Makes You Turn: Practical Mechanics That Work 19:50 TurnCoach Enterprises: Scaling a 700 Person Waitlist 26:40 Most Common Mistake: Fix Your Prep to Unlock More Rotations 33:20 Every Body Can Turn: Mindset, Confidence, and Inclusive Coaching 44:50 Healthy Body Image in Dance: Language Teachers Should Avoid Connect with Lynnrae Hiers Serra: Visit The Turn Coach Website Follow Lynnrae on Instagram Connect with John Corella: Follow Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram Follow John on Instagram Join Dance Dad with John Corella on Patreon Visit John Corella’s website Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm
#43
Oct 3, 2025 · 1 hr 9 min
EP 42: Every Body is a Dancer’s Body with Amanda LaCount
Amanda LaCount proves that plus size dancers belong center stage, sharing how her journey, her advocacy, and the support of Dance Mom Jill are reshaping the dance community. A professional dancer who has performed with Lady Gaga, Rihanna, JLo, and Katy Perry, Amanda joins John Corella to challenge the stereotypes that have long defined the industry. She reveals how media-driven beauty standards create barriers, why she is determined to advocate for greater inclusivity, and how she built the confidence to push back against an environment that often resists change. Amanda credits much of her boldness to Dance Mom Jill’s unwavering advocacy and explains why having someone in your corner can make all the difference. From speaking openly about rejection and resilience to highlighting the responsibility of representation, Amanda shows how dancers of every body type can thrive when they are given safe, supportive spaces to express their art. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction to Amanda LaCount on Dance Dad 07:43 Every Body Is a Dancer’s Body: Breaking Stereotypes 11:32 Finding Boldness Through Dance Mom Jill’s Advocacy 24:32 Growing Up Plus Size in Dance Competitions 30:42 How Studios and Conventions Can Support Plus Size Dancers 42:03 Performing in Rihanna’s Savage X Fenty Show 45:33 Lessons From Working With Lady Gaga and Katy Perry 47:37 Teaching Dance and Creating Inclusive Spaces 56:23 Inclusivity vs. Stereotypes in Casting 01:00:27 Being the Role Model Amanda Never Had Connect with Amanda LaCount: Follow Amanda on Instagram Visit Amanda’s website Connect with John Corella: Follow Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram Follow John on Instagram Join Dance Dad with John Corella on Patreon Visit John Corella’s website Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm
#42
Sep 18, 2025 · 1 hr 1 min
EP 41: Xanadu, Olivia Newton-John with Xanadu dancer Cheryl Baxter
Cheryl Baxter’s very first job as a young dancer put her on the set of Xanadu with Olivia Newton-John, Gene Kelly, and Kenny Ortega. What does it feel like to step into a world like that straight out of a small town in Wisconsin? And how do you carry lessons from legends into a career that lasts for decades? Joining John Corella in this episode, Cheryl reflects on the magic of Xanadu, the influence of Gene Kelly’s ease and Olivia Newton-John’s authenticity, and the ways she has kept her career alive through every crossover - from film and television to teaching and even TikTok! Cheryl’s story invites you to think about resilience, reinvention, and the joy that comes from saying yes to new stages of life in dance. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Dance Dad Introduction 03:20 Making Xanadu With Olivia Newton-John and Gene Kelly 06:00 Gene Kelly’s On Set Lesson: Relax and Have Fun 10:30 Meeting Olivia Newton-John and Early Xanadu Memories 16:10 Why Xanadu Became a Cult Classic 28:30 Reinvention and Career Crossover From Stage to TikTok 49:30 Filming Magic on Xanadu: Steadicam, Long Days, Big Finale 57:50 Stay Bold: Resilience and Reinvention in Dance Connect with Cheryl Baxter: Follow Cheryl on Instagram Connect with John Corella: Follow Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram Follow John on Instagram Join Dance Dad with John Corella on Patreon John Corella Website Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm
#41
Sep 4, 2025 · 1 hr 8 min
EP 40: Our Damaging Experiences With Conversion Therapy
Trigger Warning: This episode contains conversations about conversion therapy, psychological abuse, and self-harm. We share these stories to raise awareness and foster healing, but we recognize they may be difficult to hear. Please listen with care and step away if you need to. If you or someone you know is struggling, resources like The Trevor Project (1-866-488-7386) are available to provide support. Conversion therapy survivor Syre Klenke speaks openly about the damaging impact of being forced into years of so-called “treatment” as a teenager and the depression that followed, while also showing how authenticity and community became a way forward. Joining John Corella, Syre recalls the shock of being taken to a conversion therapy conference under the guise of a family outing, the gaslighting he endured from both licensed therapists and church leaders, and the loss of everyday teenage milestones like dating and prom. These stories reveal how conversion therapy robs young people of their sense of safety and self, leaving scars that last well into adulthood. Yet Syre also reflects on the resilience it takes to survive, the courage to tell the truth, and the importance of building spaces where no one has to hide who they are. This episode confronts the damaging reality of conversion therapy while reminding us that healing is possible through honesty, courage, and community. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Welcome to Dance Dad with John Corella 01:26 Meet Syre Klenke: Comedian, Activist, Conversion Therapy Survivor 04:46 What Conversion Therapy Really Means and Why It’s Damaging 07:58 Surviving Four Years of Forced Conversion Therapy 12:05 Losing High School Milestones and Identity 18:43 The Most Traumatizing Moments of Conversion Therapy 27:49 Abuse and Self-Harm Tactics Inside Conversion Therapy 29:29 Mental Health Struggles and Depression Afterward 34:33 Religion, Patriarchy, and Gender Roles in Conversion Therapy 39:09 Why Survivor Stories Must Be Told 42:14 Conversion Therapy in Politics and the Supreme Court Case 01:04:30 The Boldest Act: Sharing Your Story Authentically Connect with Syre Klenke: Instagram Connect with John Corella: Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram John Corella on Instagram Patreon Website Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm
#40
Aug 21, 2025 · 5 min
EP 39: Just Be. Labor Day Episode
Labor Day becomes a reminder that creativity and connection grow stronger when we pause, take breaks, and allow ourselves to just be. John Corella takes this episode in a different direction, stepping back from the usual focus on dance and LGBTQ issues to reflect on what Labor Day really represents. Born out of union protests, the holiday was meant as a pause from constant work and a way to honor those who fought for fair treatment. How often do we give ourselves that same pause in our own lives? What happens when we step away from the noise of social media or the pull of endless tasks and simply let ourselves be present? John shares how these small choices – to rest, to quiet the distractions, to notice the moment – make it easier to find presence on stage, in creativity, and in life. He also takes time to thank listeners and celebrate milestones in the Dance Dad community, reminding us that growth comes from more than effort alone. As summer comes to a close, this episode invites you to see Labor Day as a chance to recharge, reflect, and practice the art of being. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Labor Day Reflections 01:24 The Power of Breaks and Taking Time Off 03:33 Practicing Presence in Daily Life 05:09 End of Summer and Closing Gratitude Links Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram John Corella on Instagram Patreon Website Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

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