73 - Alisha Tallarico: Journey from Dancer to Industry Leader

Episode Summary:

Alisha Tallarico, a dancer, model, creative director, and producer who has worked with top artists like Jennifer Lopez, TLC, and the Pussycat Dolls. Alisha shares her inspiring journey from Vancouver to Los Angeles, where she began as a dancer and model before shifting into creative production. She discusses her experience assisting industry legends like Robin Anton and Nappy Tabs, which opened doors to opportunities with JLo and other high-profile projects.

Alisha emphasizes the power of persistence, highlighting how reaching out and asking for opportunities led to significant career growth. She also touches on the importance of balancing passion with practicality, learning from mentors, and carving out a unique path in the entertainment industry. Today, Alisha works as a talent coordinator for JLo’s team and has gained invaluable experience in both creative direction and production.

This episode offers valuable insights into the evolving nature of a dance career, encouraging aspiring dancers to think beyond performance and explore opportunities in creative roles. Alisha’s story proves that with dedication, hard work, and a willingness to learn, dreams can become reality—even when the path is not always clear from the start.

Show Notes:

• (03:00) Alicia's journey from Vancouver to Los Angeles

• (08:00) The importance of assisting to gain industry experience

• (12:00) How Alicia transitioned from dancer to creative director

• (16:00) Working with Robin Anton and Nappy Tabs

• (20:00) How to network and create opportunities in the entertainment industry

• (24:00) The role of social media in casting and job opportunities

• (28:00) Overcoming setbacks and staying resilient in a competitive field

• (32:00) The value of asking for what you want and not waiting for opportunities

• (35:00) Alicia’s current role working full-time with Jennifer Lopez

• (39:00) Balancing work, personal life, and finding career fulfillment

• (42:00) Advice for dancers transitioning to creative and production roles

• (45:00) Final thoughts on persistence, tenacity, and embracing new career paths

Biography:

Alisha Tallarico is a professional dancer, model and creative director, originally from Vancouver, now residing in Los Angeles, who has worked with some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry. 

She has an extensive background in high fashion modeling in LA Fashion Week, Miami Swim Week, Vancouver Fashion Week

She started her journey in LA by assisting Menina Fortunato with The Hollywood Summer Tour, then ROBIN ANTIN (founder of the Pussycat Dolls) & has been assisting NAPPY TABS for several years on endless projects as an associate creative director and producer.

Her career highlights include working on JLo's Concert in Italy, Netflix film “HalfTime”, iHeart Radio Fiesta Latina performance, TLC Summer Tour, and producing multiple Disney Channel Specials. 

She worked with Kylie Cantrall, helping to design merchandise, building a website, editing photos and videos, and more.  

Alisha's determination and ability to overcome setbacks have been key to her success in the industry. 

She has had to navigate difficult challenges, such as obtaining an entertainment visa and green card, but has persevered and carved out a successful career for herself both on stage and off stage. 

Connect on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/alishatallarico