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:
Connect with John Corella:
Follow Dance Dad with John Corella on Instagram
Join Dance Dad with John Corella on Patreon
Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm
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