Josh Holland’s old stomping ground used to be Eastern Oklahoma County and Rose State College.

Now, though, the professional trainer, dancer and actor is living in New York and is working for pop star Madonna.

Before the Thanksgiving break, Holland took a break from visiting his family in Chandler for the holidays, to speak to the Rose State 2013-2014 Leadership students.

Each week, the class listens to lectures from various individuals in leadership positions and Holland was invited by Dean Fisher, associate vice president of enrollment management.

Holland told students of his leadership journey sharing details of his upbringing by his parents. He then described the first time he met Madonna after becoming her trainer. He said he was invited by a fellow trainer to assist in the singer’s extensive exercise routine at her home gym. He said the woman worked out in a hot environment as part of her training.

"I saw Madonna on these bars and everyone was really sweating. I didn’t have time to even think about it being Madonna on these bars," Holland said.

His fellow trainer told Holland he had to crawl under the bars to steady them while Madonna worked her nerve-wracking routine above him.

"So, I’m grabbing these bars—they were ballet bars. She was standing on top of them—it’s really scary, because if the bars slide out, she can get really hurt," Holland said. "I’m like, ‘Man, this is crazy.’ Madonna is right above me, swinging on this trapeze, and sweating-dripping all on me. One of the first things I remember about her is her saying, ‘I’m sorry I’m sweating on you.’ And I’m like, ‘No problem! I’m fine!’ That was my moment of meeting Madonna. From there, she kept asking me to come back."