For many dancers, working forMadonnais a dream job.

However, there are hard lessons to be learned working for the “Material Girl” singer.

Dancing With the StarsjudgeCarrie Ann Inabaknows this well after touring with Madonna earlier in her career.

Madonna performs during opening night of The Celebration Tour at The O2 Arena on October 14, 2023 in London, England.

Madonna.Kevin Mazur/WireImage

“She gave us this one rule, which I’m so grateful she did.

She says that now, she’s always on time or even shows up “too early.”

“There was like Michael [Jackson], Prince, and Madonna at the time.

Carrie Ann Inaba visits “Extra” at Universal Studios Hollywood on May 03, 2019 in Universal City, California. , Madonna performs during opening night of The Celebration Tour at The O2 Arena on October 14, 2023 in London, England.

Carrie Ann Inaba and Madonna.Noel Vasquez/Getty Images; Kevin Mazur/WireImage

“As a dancer, you’re kind of put out to pasture when you’re 25.”

Though, Inaba might have been done as a backup dancer, she is far from retired.