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